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August, 2022 Issue 115
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Lions on the Downs
County honours tennis coach Will Will Hardiman, head coach at Henleaze Tennis Club, has been named Avon Tennis's development coach of the year. PAGE 31
There are lions on the Downs, but relax - you can take this lot lying down. See Page 3
Murals brighten St Paul's walls
Galleries set for demolition BIG developments are going on in Bristol that will change the look and feel of the place in years to come. Temple Meads Station is to be re-developed, the Zoo and its gardens have dramatic changes proposed and now the Galleries shopping centre is to be demolished and rebuilt. Many thought the 1990s shopping mall would not be able to compete with the new Cabot Circus, and that is certainly one of the factors that has brought about the decision to change direction. The numbers of people visiting the shops at the Galleries or eating in the restaurants has
fallen, lockdown has taken its toll businesses have struggled and many have found a better future elsewhere. Something had to be done and a transformation of the space occupied is planned. Office space, affordable homes, shops, cafes, restaurants, nighttime venues, student living, a hotel, an open market are currently in the mix. But nothing will happen for at least two years. It’s at the very early stages of the planning process and you can have your say.
Several colourful new murals have been painted in St Paul's thanks to a project funded by the metro mayor Dan Norris. PAGE 27
Pupils' spell of success Two pupils from The Dolphin School in Montpelier were among the winners in a French spelling competition held at Cambridge University. PAGE 15
Report: Page 4
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August, 2022
n NEWS
Lynette, 77, carries Commonwealth Games baton A ST Monica Trust resident, whose breast cancer charity has supported hundreds of local families, was selected to carry the Queen's Baton as part of the official relay for the Commonwealth Games. Lynette Hopkins carried the torch along the route through St Paul's when the Queen’s Baton Relay visited Bristol. She said: “I could not believe it. How many people get an opportunity like this in their lifetime? I was absolutely thrilled to be chosen out of all the thousands that were nominated. The atmosphere, the laughter, all the people clapping - it was so fantastic and I was very humbled. I’ve never done anything like this and it was such an accolade to be chosen. It brought tears to my eyes.” The baton's first stop was at the Empire Fighting Chance Charity in Easton and then it headed to St Paul's to be met by children from local schools and the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Mrs Peaches Golding OBE. Lynette got to run an extra leg of the official route after one of the Batonbearers failed to turn up, which meant she took the baton to the finish line at St Agnes Park. “The end was absolutely fantastic. I went round corner and all the pupils from St Barnabas Primary School were there clapping. “They were so excited and were absolutely
Lynette Hopkins with Lord Lieutenant Peaches Golding and the Queen's Baton delightful. One little boy shook my hand and said: ‘congratulations’ and I asked him if he’d like to hold the baton for a moment.” Lynette and her fellow inspirational Batonbearers will take the Queen’s Baton on a 2,500-mile journey through England, ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games which opens on July 28. The seventy-seven-year-old Bristolian was selected for her work with Bosom Buddies, a support group founded by Lynette in 1997
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to help patients and families cope with the psychological and everyday effects of breast cancer. Lynette said: “I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996. Although the medical treatment I received was fantastic, I felt there was a lack of support in general for people with breast cancer and so I set-up Bosom Buddies. “We had an office in the BRI with a 24hour helpline. We’d hold monthly support meetings, visit people in their homes, drive ladies to chemotherapy sessions, organise fundraising and so much more. “I’m delighted to say that twenty-five years later, both myself and Bosom Buddies are still going strong.” Lynette has been a resident at the St Monica Trust’s Westbury Fields retirement village for the last four years. Village manager, Jeanette Iles said: “As well as her charity work in the wider Bristol community, Lynette is also an active and popular member of the Westbury Fields community, so it is wonderful to see her achievements recognised in this way. She’s a huge fan of Her Majesty, so carrying the Queen’s Baton during the Platinum Jubilee year was extra special for her.” Find out more at bosombuddiesbristol. co.uk/ or by calling 0117 342 4940.
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 September deadline is August 17. 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.
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August, 2022
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n NEWS
Mane attraction THE Born Free Lions have attracted quite a lot of interest in the exhibition at the Sea Walls end of the Downs. Named after the 1966 film, the Born Free charity has set up an exhibition of 25 life-size lions. They hope to raise awareness of the threats to lions in the wild. In the 60s there were about 200,000 roaming free but now their numbers have reduced to just 20,000. The centrepiece of the exhibition is Elsa standing atop a vehicle dominating the scene. Elsa was the star of the film Born Free. Each of the lions rescued and nurtured by the Born Free charity has a name and a history – scan the QR code on each statue and their touching story is revealed. Any money raised will go to the Forever Lions Fund which was set up in memory of Bill Travers who starred with Virginia McKenna in the original film. A full account of why the lions need decisive positive action right now is detailed on one of the sculptures in the centre. The exhibition on the Downs is there until October 1. www. bornfree.org.uk
Elsa on top of a car
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bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
n NEWS
Changes due as Galleries looks to future WE’VE been shopping there since 1991. It was the Galleries, then the Mall, then back to the Galleries once more, though many Bristolians just called the place ”the shops”. Now the whole shebang – all five acres worth – is to be transformed in an imaginative re-development programme that will change everything. Yes, there will be shops, but there will also be office space, a hotel, bars, restaurants, street cafes, an open market, leisure destinations open both daytime and crucially at night. The whole area was often deserted after dark. A multi-storey block of flats will provide some affordable homes and student living and is central to this mixed use development. Another radical change is that the whole complex will face Castle Park. Currently the Galleries has turned its back on the green space that is the park, say the developers, Deeley Freed, and they want to take advantage of this missed opportunity. Terraces with cafes and restaurants will now face the park, walkways will offer pedestrians a way into the complex and Broadmead beyond. Nearly a third of the space will be given over to “high quality public realm spaces” with new open areas with opportunities for urban greening. What’s driven this desire for change? Well, most people can see that the Galleries has been more popular in years gone by. In fact footfall has dropped off dramatically. It wasn’t just lockdown, visitor numbers have fallen to thirty five percent below the numbers visiting even before the pandemic. Stay-at-home shoppers became keener to use the internet for purchases. There has been competition from the newer Cabot Circus and all this has resulted in more vacant shops at the Galleries. Its future was challenged. The developers are keen to point out that the shops facing Broadmead will not be affected by the changes and urge people to support all their traders in the medium term. It’s the early days of the planning phase, consultations involving the
Galleries looking towards Quakers Friars
Galleries Newgate Street towards Wine Street public have started and it’ll be some time before the demolition crews turn up. Staff working there were told at the beginning of July that everything would remain as it is for two years at least. Work is planned to start in the autumn of 2024 with the new city centre opening in 2027. Initial consultations involving
the public began last month and all the consultation material will be uploaded to the website. There are feedback forms and people can register for updates at Galleriesfuture.com. The five acre site is owned by La Salle Investment Management along with Bristol City Council. The lead developer is Bristol-based Deeley Freed,
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working with Savills and Arup. It’ll be the biggest building project since Cabot Circus which opened 13 years ago. A spokesman for the team describes it as a an opportunity to create a world-class, sustainable destination and re-invigorate the centre - it’s a positive response to the ways we now live, work and shop.
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
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n NEWS
Council blamed for Beacon costs INDEPENDENT watchdogs have blamed the city council for the Bristol Beacon refurbishment costs more than doubling. Number-crunchers Grant Thornton say the local authority “underestimated the complexity and difficulty” of the concert hall’s revamp and that its “failure” to have effective arrangements in place caused the bill to spiral from £52million to £107million. The auditors’ assessment in their 2020/21 interim annual report, which has just been published, comes weeks after it was revealed the building is valued at zero pounds in Bristol City Council’s accounts and that the authority has already written off £39million on the project. On-site investigations found the Victorian building’s structure to be a “worst-case scenario” which saw the council’s share of the bill spiral from £10million to £54.5million. The additional funding was approved by mayor Marvin Rees’s Labour cabinet in March last year with support from crossparty scrutiny councillors amid concerns
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about simply letting the former Colston Hall “disintegrate” in the city centre. In its value-for-money report, presented to the authority’s audit committee on June 27, Grant Thornton said: “The council underestimated the complexity and difficulty of the redevelopment of the Bristol Beacon and did not have effective arrangements in place throughout 2020/21. “The failure to have effective management arrangements in place from the start of the project and to have any cost certainty before entering into the contract has resulted in delays and increased costs. “The council has strengthened the management and project management
arrangements for Bristol Beacon, but these new arrangements are not yet consistently applied across the council.” Grant Thornton did not identify any “significant weaknesses” in the authority’s value-for-money arrangements in 2020/21 but identified 13 improvement recommendations, including taking steps to avoid a repeat of the Beacon financial calamity. “The council should learn from the Bristol Beacon project and ensure all capital projects have effective and rigorous project management arrangements in place.” Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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August, 2022
n NEWS
Next Year’s Eurovision in Bristol? THE Mayor Marvin Rees says he’s working with the YTL Arena people to bring Eurovision to Bristol next year at the Brabazon Hangar. “We’ve certainly got the space”, he says and knowing that the winners Ukraine are
unable to host the contest in their homeland he, and the YTL Arena, are making a bid to the BBC who have been asked if they will televise the event from somewhere in the UK. They want that somewhere to be Bristol’s Brabazon Hangar.
Last month the band Queen put on a concert there as a rehearsal for their Jubilee appearance so the massive hangar already has some credibility as a big event venue. The Mayor's video was played at last month’s Pride festival
on the main stage as a surprise announcement. It’s on social media and the Mayor asks everyone to share it using the hashtag #ThisisBristolCalling to boost the city’s chances of making this happen.
City's taxi fares set to increase by 9% TAXI fares in Bristol are set to see a 9% hike as drivers struggle with the cost of living crisis. Rising inflation, particularly affecting fuel prices, means taxi drivers are finding it harder to make ends meet from the trade. This summer fares in hackney carriages, the blue taxis in Bristol, will increase by about 9%, depending on when and how far the journey is. Bristol City Council approved the fare increases, pending a two-week public consultation, at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, July 12. Council bosses said taxi drivers had also been hit hard by coronavirus lockdowns and hospitality businesses closing. Councillor Don Alexander, cabinet
member for transport, said: “The trade has been hit hard by the impact of the pandemic, with the Government’s closure of hospitality in particular having a big impact on drivers’ incomes. It’s in this context that the trade has proposed changes to the fares charged by hackney carriages licensed by Bristol City Council.” For a one-mile journey, day rates would rise from £4.40 to £4.80, night rates from £5.50 to £5.70, weekend day rates from £5 to £5.40, and weekend night rates from £5.60 to £5.80. For a three-mile journey, day rates would rise from £8.40 to £9.20, night rates from £10.10 to £10.70, weekend day rates from £9 to £9.80, and weekend night rates from £10.40 to £11. Taxi fares haven’t risen in Bristol for
four years, with the last rise taking place in October 2018 when some fares rose more than 11%. The previous rise before this took place in 2013. The current rise will likely take effect this summer. Cllr Alexander added: “I’m aware that these increases come at a time of huge pressure on household budgets, and I’m aware that fare rises will be a particular concern for regular users of taxis in the city. We have worked closely with the trade to ensure any fare rises are balanced and reflect the levels of demand for taxi services at different times.”
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Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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August, 2022
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Birding on your doorstep – Bristol's Peregrine falcons DID you know at least eight pairs of Peregrine falcons nest in Bristol? The most well known live in the Avon Gorge and can be viewed from the watchpoint near Ladies Mile or Sea Walls on the Downs. The adults and this year’s young will be active now to the delight of visitors to the Downs (but less so to the local pigeons). Another pair nest on the old electricity sub-station opposite Castle Park (at least up until the refurbishment) and two more perch on Stapleton Church spire. Residents of St Monica’s were entertained by their own temporary resident in 2020. In the past, Peregrines suffered badly from persecution and DDT poisoning but are now thriving where they are left alone. They have a grey back and are paler underneath - the adults have black horizontal bars, the juveniles vertical stripes. The juveniles will continue to beg for food while they
learn how to hunt. You can see a daily report of local bird sightings on our blog at avonbirding.blogspot.com and you can send any questions about birds to BOCZoom@gmail.com. Someone will know the answer! Alastair Fraser, Bristol Ornithological Club
Photo: Keith Williams
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August, 2022
n NEWS
New cafe will be built on the Downs to replace old public toilets block
A NEW cafe will be built on the Downs to replace an old “hideous” public toilets block. Despite concerns about building on the historic parkland, the cafe was given planning permission on June 29 by Bristol City Council. The cafe, off the Circular Road near the Sea Walls, will include replacement public toilets and a small education centre. In April, the council’s development control committee voted against giving planning permission, and asked officers to come back with reasons for refusal. However, when the committee met again to ratify that decision, they instead voted to approve the plans. The Downs are jointly run by Bristol City Council and the Society of Merchant Venturers, a
group of business people. The Downs committee, made up of Bristol councillors and Merchant Venturers, said they needed to build a cafe in order
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to provide income for replacing the public toilets. However, the new toilets included in the plans will be smaller than the ones currently there. Robert Westlake, chairman of Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge, said: “It’s essential the toilet block is replaced by something that’s fit for purpose. In the current financial climate it’s essential that the Downs generates some income, and this proposal is predicted to generate at least 10% of the running costs of the Downs, through the rent that will be charged.” The cafe will open from 8am to 7pm Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. During winter the cafe will close at dusk. The toilets will be free to use for the public while the cafe is open, and will cost a small fee to use while the cafe is closed. Cllr Fabian Breckels said: “The cafe will help fund the toilets. These days with less and less government money coming in to fund things like public toilets, other ways are going to have to be found to fund them.” Other concerns included the loss of biodiversity from building on the Downs. A separate, offsite area will see new flowers planted to offset any loss, although this could take several years to happen. An education board will also be set up in the new building to educate people about the importance of biodiversity. But not all councillors supported the scheme. Green Cllr Lorraine
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Francis said: “We’re talking about the Downs committee commercialising and making profit from erecting a cafe on a protected green space. They want to increase the footprint of the building and I think it’s outrageous. “If the Downs committee wants to rebuild the toilets, then rebuild the toilets. We cannot ignore the value of biodiversity and maintaining habitats which have been in existence way before us or should continue way after we’ve gone.” Councillors voted five to three to grant planning permission. The cafe was previously granted planning permission in 2019, but this expired after three years. The cafe and toilets would cover a much larger area than the current toilet block. The footprint of the existing toilets is 43 square metres, with 188 square metres of hard surfacing, while the proposed building would cover 75 square metres, with 239 square metres of hard surfacing. Planning permission was initially granted for the cafe in 2019 — despite objectors comparing plans to “putting a Starbucks in Stonehenge” — but this expired after three years, so the Downs committee have had to reapply for permission for the new cafe. The committee argued that income from the cafe was needed to pay for the replacement toilets. Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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n ADVERTISING FEATURE
August, 2022
Shareholders' agreements and avoiding ahareholder disputes
July, 2014
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Advertising Feature
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When advising private limited companies, one of • How directors will be appointed the first documents to discuss is an agreement • How board and shareholders meetings will between the shareholders. This is because in operate and how often most private limited companies we work with, • How decisions will be made between the directors and shareholders are one and the shareholders same. The same tends to apply in family run • What will happen if a shareholder wants to leave businesses. the business The relationship between the shareholders • The existing shareholders having a first right to of a business is vitally important if a company purchase a leaving shareholder’s shares is going to succeed. A shareholders’ agreement • Shareholders' rights to information exitdistribution of shareholders will be managed allows you to define relationship will be.the However a Will can be• How the for the of the estate, members of the Society of Trust worded provide thatand a gift of (including and the be and Estate Practitioners, the theestate needcan for then non-compete clauses) between shareholders, set out tothe rights 10 % of the value of your estate as if the hadofbeen leading professional body in • What divided will happen onWill death a shareholder responsibilities of each shareholder and provide at that timeact is given to a charity made in these terms. A Deed of this field. Weexample offer a free initial for how the shareholders must in certain if funding may need to be raised and or charities of your choice. The Variation could therefore provide consultation for new clients. Reviewing and amending shareholders’ given situations, for example on death or long how this may affect the existing shares in issue. effect of this will be that the rate that 10 % of the estate is to pass For advice on administration term illness of a shareholder who also works in on agreements of Inheritance Tax payable the to a chosen charity or charities, of estates, trusts, wills, powers In the making same way business the business. Shareholder disputes whole estate is reduced from 40 the estate as aterms wholeand conditions of attorney and all private client may need overtime, % to 36 %. eligiblereviewing for the reduced rate of shareholders’ issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, In same circumstances, it agreements Inheritance Tax. are flexible documents thatFlorence can be Pearce Drafting shareholders’ agreements A shareholders’ and the other agreement cannot prevent a hasshould been calculated that this amended with the agreement of the parties. Shareholders’ agreements be carefully members of dispute the team arising on 0117between shareholders but it set This change in the law is reduction in the tax bill can serve 9621205, When a company it has email drafted and tailored to meet the bespoke outprobate@ the mechanics for what should happen in the clearly very goodstarts newsout, bothas long as to leave the estate, even after amdsolicitors.com in 2 or more shareholders, an agreement should be requirements for the Company. This will ensure eventor ofcall a dispute or even define certain actions for charities, and potentially for payment of the gift to charity, at 15may The Mall Clifton, or 100 some estates as well. However Over time, new shareholders everyone’s rights and obligations areasclear, that could make a shareholder a compulsory with a value high allow as if the considered. Henleaze Road Henleaze. By Shelley detail ofor thethe application can shareholders business roles of the the company to operate effectively leaver. Shareholders agreements can set out a gift had notand beenminimise made. Thusjoin thethe be complex. For example, the AMD Solicitors takes pride in procedure which shareholders the gift can in some cases quite may evolve. These are just 2 examples of when the potential for disputes. dispute resolution Faulkner, estate is divided into different sponsoring local, Bristol based literally pay for itself. a need‘components’ may arise fordepending reviewing and updating an must follow before disputes are escalated. on charities and this year is very solicitor with agreement. Typically, an agreement will cover at least Even where a Will the has not existing To discuss how the property will pass to pleased to be supporting the how our corporate lawyers been prepared in these terms, My the rolebenefi is not just toinreflect client can help with shareholders’ agreements and ciaries, order tothe current Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s AMD following: Solicitors may be possible to take objectives but also to work my clients andthe local • Shareholders' duties andit entitlements calculate whether the 10with % test Society, branchcompliance, of this corporate please contact us on 0117 advantage of this tax break. If hasthe been met. growth Taking specialist national which works plan for future of the business, forcharity • How the company will be managed 9733989 or by email to info@amdsolicitors.com. the beneficiaries of the estate
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How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax
advice on the implications for WHILE most of us support agree, it is possible to effectively your particular circumstances is 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
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2022
n NEWS ELEVEN-year-old schoolboy Toby Fletcher has a fundraising challenge for St Peter's Hospice in Brentry, raising more than £20,000. Bristol Bears fan Toby pledged to run one kilometre for every point conceded by the team last season in support of the charity, which looked after his rugby-mad grandmother - Nanny June - after she was diagnosed with cancer. It’s been a big ask as the team haven’t had the best of seasons and Toby reckons he’s run 718km in total - the equivalent of running from Bristol to Germany - sometimes in rain, storms, and hot weather. Preparing for his final run, Toby arrived at the hospice in Brentry where he was surprised to be met by Lenny, the hospice mascot, and the nurses and doctors who’d turned out to thank him for his endurance and effort. They waved him off to run the 10km from Brentry across the Downs to the Bears' Ashton Gate Stadium. Arriving to cheers and applause, Toby, who lives in Frampton Cotterell, was met by many of the St Peter’s Hospice and Ashton Gate team, Bristol Rugby supporters and his hugely proud family. Pitch side, St Peter’s Hospice chief executive, Frank Noble presented Toby with a Bristol Blue glass rugby ball sculpture to mark his achievements and a giant tub of Haribo Tangfastics (his preferred choice of sweets) Toby was then surprised by his favourite Bristol Bears player, Fitz Harding with a special cake on which he’s sitting under a goal post in this season’s shirt.
Toby, 11, raises more than £20,000 for city's hospice As well as the effort, Toby’s had fun along the way too. He ran with rugby legend Joe Joyce, was thanked for his efforts by former Scottish International player, Thom Evans on The One Show, he’s met all the Bears players in the changing room and run around the pitch at half-time with fans cheering for him. As the challenge came to an end, Toby said: “I'm excited about finishing my Bearathon but also looking forward to the rest and watching Bristol without worrying about the score.” Toby’s mum Claire has been supporting him every step of the way. Claire said: "As a family we are incredibly proud of what Toby has achieved, not only has he raised an amazing amount of money but he’s inspired other young people to take on challenges and go that extra mile. “There have been so many times he hasn't wanted to run but the support he’s received from friends, family and most importantly, the rugby community have given him the boosts he needed during the challenge. He has loved the support from the Bristol Bears players and staff and cannot wait to cheer them on next season.” To support Toby’s Bearathon challenge visit his Just Giving page. https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/clairefletcher22
Toby arriving at Ashton Gate at the end of his Bearathon
Toby, his mum Caroline, mascot Lenny and hospice CEO Frank Noble
BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE SCHOOL
LANDLORDS
Are you a private landlord with a property in Bristol? Bristol Old Vic Theatre School is currently increasing its pool of trusted landlords to host our students whilst they study here in Clifton. Toby and Fitz Harding
For more information please contact Michael Tew at BOVTS email: michael.tew@oldvic.ac.uk or call: 07921 744303
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2022
n NEWS
'Tap on, tap off' on buses HOW you use the bus has radically changed. First Bus have a new system where you “tap on” with the bank card at the on-board card reader and now you also need to “tap off” when you get off at your stop. The correct fare will then automatically be deducted from your account which you will be able to see updated from the end of the day. If you don’t “tap off” you’ll likely be charged for the whole trip to the end of the line. So “tap off” and just pay for the stops you use. As well as being a quicker transaction which keeps the bus moving, there are benefits for the customer. If you take three or more journeys in one day the price will be capped at £5.30. If you were to take three bus trips in one day in Bristol under the new system, one trip will cost you £2.20, a second trip will take your daily cost up to £4.30, and three or more will bring your total to £5.30 - the highest daily cost you can pay. It’s also capped across the week at £23 for seven days £21 for 5 days. You have to use the same bank
card each time to make the cap work – and you are warned not to tap your wallet with all your cards in it because the automatic system might deduct from any debit or credit card. Older people with a bus pass just tap their card on the card reader once. It’s still free. The scheme only works for adult fares. If you want to buy other tickets including child, student or group, you will need to buy them from the iPoint machines at Metrobus stops, or on the First Bus app before you board the bus. First Bus reckon that a bus spends 25 to 30 percent of its time at bus stops. This quicker system of payment should cut that wait time by at least half. A similar system working across all forms of transport has been working for some years in London. Bristol is still some way from getting this system to integrate across local trains, ferries and buses in spite of the fact that more than 30 percent of Bristol’s workforce travels in from outside the city each day.
Registered Charity 202151
Enjoy the very best in later living at a St Monica Trust retirement village. To learn more about village life book your place on a guided tour now by calling 0117 919 4251 or visit www.stmonicatrust.org.uk for more information and details of available properties.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
n NEWS
Group setting up Bristol’s new committee-run council will ask for ‘views from the city’ BRISTOL City Council has a new committee. It’s called “The Committees Committee”. It has a big job trying to get a cross-party group of councillors to agree how the council will make decisions when the Executive Mayor post is abolished in May 2024. The Referendum in May this year asked if voters wanted to keep or abolish the post of Mayor, but did not detail how the council would decide policy after this. It’s still far from clear how the new committee-based system will work. The group tasked with figuring that out has 12 councillors from different parties and will be led by Labour Councillor Helen Holland, cabinet member for adult social care. Membership is proportionally balanced between the parties depending on the number of seats they hold. Also on the working group are Labour councillors Nicola Beech, Steve Pearce and Marley Bennett; Green councillors Jenny Bartle, Lorraine Francis, Guy Poultney and Mohamed Makawi; Conservative councillors Geoff Gollop and Richard Eddy; Liberal Democrat councillor Tim Kent; and Knowle Community Party councillor Gary Hopkins. It’s not yet known whether the working group will meet in public or behind closed doors. One area the working group will likely explore is Sheffield, a similar city to Bristol which also recently voted in a referendum to move to a committee-run council. Where the new committee system has been in place since May. It’s thought that by the Autumn the new working group hoping to implement this change will open its meetings to the public and that views from the public will be sought on the issue. Alex Seabrook - Local Democracy Reporting Service
Bands seek players IF you like blowing your own trumpet or saxophone, or clarinet, or trombone you might like to play in one of two Bishopston bands. They are interested in new keyboard players too. The two bands are handily titled so you always know when they meet. The Wednesday Evening Band meets once a week in a school hall in Redland, BS6 6AJ. This band started in September 2021 and is now flourishing. The Monday Afternoon Band plays fortnightly in a church hall in Redland BS6 7HE. The band has been playing since 2015. They take a break over the school holidays and will start up again in September. Both bands play from the Hal Leonard Easy Jazz books - Easy Jazz Favorites, and Best of Easy Jazz. The bands are not for beginners - playing for three years minimum, and being able to read music is required, but members do not have to be good at sight-reading. The bands are instrumental only and do not have vocalists. The bands do not do any concerts or public performances. Both bands are very friendly, and welcome new players. To get in touch please email wednesdayeveningband@gmail.com mondayafternoonband@gmail.com
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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GET BADMINTON OUR COMMUNITY Whole School Open Day Saturday 1 October 2022 Book your place online now | admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk | badmintonschool.co.uk
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
15
n EDUCATION
Magnifique! Dolphin pupils win languages competition TWO children from The Dolphin School in Montpelier were among the winners in a national French spelling competition. Six pupils from the school won places in the finals at Cambridge University in a contest that involved 1,200 children across the country. Bobby Craig, from Year 6, was the overall winner and Suhanna Gill, from Year 5, finished in third place in the Primary Bee. They were presented with their trophies by Patricia Dalby, director of The Cambridge Alliance Francaise. Bobby’s success also won his school a year’s free subscription to Vocabexpress.com. Hannah White, languages leader at The Dolphin School, said: “We are so proud of Bobby and Suhanna’s efforts not only in memorising so many French
words but in performing so well under intense pressure at a national event. “We were on hallowed ground - Stephen Hawking himself has sat in the very lecture hall where the finals took place!” The aim of the Primary Bee is for students in Years 5 and 6 who have started learning a foreign language in Key Stage 2 to practise and improve their vocabulary, pronunciation and memory skills in the target language. All Y5 and 6 Dolphin pupils enter stage 1 and learn the initial word list of 40 words. Class winners then learn an additional 40 words for the stage 2 school competition. The school winners learn another 40 - making a total of 120 words and phrases - for the stage 3 national final.
Bobby and Suhanna with teacher Hannah White at Cambridge University
We are Collegiate JOIN US AT OUR NEXT WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 24th SEPTEMBER 2022
Visit collegiate.org.uk to register Collegiate School, Bell Hill, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ Telephone: 0117 992 3194 Email: admissions@collegiate.org.uk
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Where education is a journey, not a race BRISTOL Steiner School is an independent day school for children from the age of 3 to 11 years. Fundamental to the Steiner Waldorf philosophy is the belief in a child-centred, relational approach to learning and a commitment to promoting the development of the whole child. This is embraced and cherished throughout all aspects of life at school, through lived values rooted in the delivery of contextual learning, with true meaning and purpose. Small class sizes promote the wellbeing and self-belief of each child. There is an authentic and tangible sense of community and culture that cultivates excellence, within a safe environment, in which the children can be curious. Opportunities to explore are embedded throughout the curriculum and this discretely encourages independence, resilience and respect. Language and oracy play an important part in school life and children participate in activities that enhance this. Mathematics is taught in class and then used across the curriculum in woodwork, handwork and form drawing. Pupils learn science in class and through outdoor learning in the school garden. Eurythmy is an expressive artform that combines language, music and movement. Physical education, swimming, music and forest school complement the diverse curriculum. Trustees are currently exploring expansion into a Middle School. To express interest in Class 6, 7 and 8 for 2023/24, please get in touch. New pupils are accepted throughout the academic year. Education is a journey, not a race. Contact: Vishwa Wijedasa Telephone: 0117 933 9990 Email: vishwawijedasa@bristolsteinerschool.org Website: www.bristolsteinerschool.org
August, 2022
n EDUCATION
Trust warned over school THE trust that runs Montpelier High School has received a warning after the school was rated "inadequate" by Ofsted. Regional Schools Commissioner Hannah Woodhouse has asked the Venturers Trust to outline its plans to improve safeguarding for pupils and bring about effective school improvement. If these proposals do not satisfy the RSC, she could decide to end the trust’s funding agreement for the school. Another trust would then have to be found to take it over. In a letter to the trust, Ms Woodhouse outlined the concerns raised by Ofsted inspectors after their visits to the formerly outstanding rated MHS earlier this year in which they identified issues over bullying and quality of education. They said the school had serious weaknesses and needed was in need of significant improvement. Venturers Trust CEO David Watson OBE said in a
BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Independent Day School for Children
Where education is a journey, not a race
Bursaries Available 0117 933 9990 reception@bristolsteinerschool.org www.bristolsteinerschool.org
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
statement: “We strongly believe that Venturers Trust has both the capacity and expertise to support the school on its journey to deliver rapid improvement in all areas identified by the Ofsted inspector. We are writing to the RSC to provide evidence of the extensive work already under way to significantly improve the school, with particular emphasis on safeguarding, leadership, governance, staff training and curriculum development. “We continue to work very closely with our board of trustees and sponsors alongside the school’s senior leaders and governors, taking a rigorous and systematic approach to ensure that the right level of support and challenge is provided and that everyone feels safe. We are also listening carefully to staff, students, parents and carers as we develop and implement the future strategy for MHS, all of whom share our determination to make the school an excellent place to learn and work again. ”
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
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n EDUCATION
Fairlawn's first pupils bid farewell THIS summer marks a milestone in the life of Fairlawn School in Montpelier as the primary’s first Year 6 pupils leave for secondary. The children have seen many firsts over the years, including SATs, a residential visit and a school production. The school is delighted that provisional SATs results show that 96 per cent passed the reading paper. Some comments from the pupils: • I’ve really enjoyed being with all my teachers here and I was really lucky to have
the teachers I did! • It’s a really lovely school and I’ve met so many nice friends and hopefully will stay in touch with them in the future! • I’ve really enjoyed doing our play and practising for it. • I’ll miss Fairlawn and all my friends! Principal Julie Molesworth, who has been at the helm for the seven years since the school opened, said: “It has been wonderful to watch these children – and our school – grow. Fairlawn is a happy and nurturing
environment and we are proud to see our first Year 6 enthusiastically looking forward to their next steps in life. We are going miss them terribly but we wish them the very best of luck.” Fairlawn School is run by Venturers Trust, which is sponsored by the Society of Merchant Venturers and the University of Bristol. It is housed in the Victorian buildings of the former Fairfield Grammar School, which has been modernised to provide a 21st century education for primary children.
Life changing Open Evening Friday 7 October Year 3 to Year 6: 4.00pm–6.00pm Year 7 to Lower Sixth: 4.00pm–8.00pm
Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday 13 October 5.00pm–7.15pm
Individual tours available most weekday mornings Contact us on 0117 933 9885
Scholarships and Bursaries available We can help with up to 100% of the fees and other costs.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Redland this month...
New club car for residents A vacant car club space will soon have a new hire car from Enterprise car club. With the cost of motoring rocketing, and parking spaces running short, having access to a club car when you need it can help people manage travel without their own car left idle parked most of the time in our congested streets. The vacant car club space in Egerton Brow has had no car in it for a long time. Martin asked officers to check this and they found the space was missed off their list of sites, so never allocated a car! One will be based there now. Each car club vehicle can typically help replace several local private cars no longer needed, and eases parking pressures in our crowded streets. There are now many mobility choices to suit different journeys. Heat pump grants A new way to heat buildings without using gas is now available for homes and small businesses. Government grants to replace boilers can be used if the building has already been
bishopstonvoice
insulated. These heat pumps gather heat from the air or ground and concentrate it to provide heating. The grants scheme and further info is found here: See www.energyservicebristol. co.uk/heatpumps/ We've had some inquiries and we recommend getting advice from those who have had a heat pump installed such as from https://www. cse.org.uk/news/view/2471 Diesel generator pollution to be reduced. With local air quality remaining dangerous it makes sense to avoid extra diesel generators and motors running in parks and streets from traders. One was recently running by Gloucester Rd which is in an air quality management area due to pollution. Families by Redland Green were also worried about an ice cream van constantly running its motor next to the play area. After a question from us about the need for trader licenses to be reviewed to discourage use of static generators the Mayor has agreed that officers should work together
to join up their processes and review the conditions and licenses being granted by the council. They didn't deal with this. Batteries and power connections should become the norm once this new scheme is put in place. This is good news and should lead to cleaner air. We'll be looking out for progress on this now it's been taken on board. Cost of living crisis With ever rising prices, energy costs and continuing low pay and zero hours contracts we supported the declaration about the cost of living crisis brought to the council in July. We would have liked to see £400,000 surplus funds allocated to the Local Crisis Prevention Fund however we didn't support an amendment for this that also wiped out the role of austerity policies. We don't think that unspent funds should have been added to boost budgets in the Mayor's office at a time like this as we think this is a well targeted fund that helps those most in need, however the Mayor didn't allow this boost to the crisis budget.
August, 2022
Unlicensed trader on Gloucester Road Following complains by residents about a trailer trading from the end of Gloucester Road we asked the licensing team to look into this. They confirmed that this was operating without a license. The trader was then asked to make a formal application to the council as they should have done already. As it was located on private land officers said it was allowed to remain there while closed. At the time of writing it had finally been removed but we're keeping a watch on the situation and want to know the right permissions are in place before any trader returns. Contacts: Fi: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk. Martin: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk Fi: 0117 3534720. Martin 0788 4736101 Facebook.com/cllrmartin.fodor or / cllrfi.hance
In Bishopston this month... We hope you are having a great Summer, and managing to keep cool in the heat. We are both away in August so enquiries might have a short delay, but you can contact the council directly for anything urgent. We look forward to seeing you all again in September. Pride June was Pride month, and July was Bristol Pride. Emma attended Fairfield School in June with two other Green Councillors to attend their first cross-school Pride event. It was great to meet so many enthusiastic young people, who gave us some great input on how they would like to see things improved for young LGBTQ+ people in Bristol. We also attended the Bristol Pride march with the Bristol Green Party, and it was great to see so many people out and marching again after three years away. Full Council meeting news With Pride as a theme, we were happy to support the cross-party motion in Full Council in July, supporting trans rights in the city. We were also happy to vote
for and support Labour’s motion to declare a cost of living crisis, something that is affecting so many people across the city. The motion also sought to find ways to support people struggling with the cost of living. Lily also gave a fantastic speech, supporting the Youth Mayors and Bristol Youth Council, who gave their annual report. Getting young people engaged in politics and activism is something we are both passionate about. Parking updates Emma also asked a question at members’ forum, once again asking the Mayor about bringing in Residents’ Parking Zones; but sadly was once again told that under this administration, RPZs would not be extended. We are also launching a petition this month to take to Full Council in September, to ban pavement parking in Bristol. We will be launching it this summer so do keep an eye on our Facebook page. Horfield benches and log edges We’ve been spending a lot of time up at Horfield common
recently seeing some of the work being done there. Recently all the broken benches were fixed and replaced where necessary, and Emma has been working with Parks officers to find a solution to people driving and parking on the common. It looks like a solution has been found and a mixture of logs, long grass and additional tree planting will be implemented in the next year. Fixing Kennington Avenue It has been brought to our attention that the recent resurfacing of Kennington Avenue, was not successful and due to weather has been left potholed and uneven. We are pleased to announce that this will be rectified over the summer and we want to pass on the officers’ apologies about any inconvenience this has and might cause. Green man at Ashley Down Rd One good bit of news from Highways is that requests from residents about the crossing on Ashley Down Road by the College is to be fixed so that an instant green man will come on when
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pressed. We hope that this will make the area much safer for pedestrians and make it easier for children crossing the road to Brunel Field school. We also hope this prioritisation of pedestrians over traffic, will help with some of the speeding that happens on Ashley Down Road as well. Muller Road work set to start We have now had confirmation that the work to change the section of Muller Rd from Downend Road to the allotments is due to start at the beginning of August. These changes will see Springfield, Draycott and Brent Roads being closed off to through traffic, and additional traffic signals being added at the bottom of Ralph Road, we hope the changes will stop cars rat running through the area.
Contacts: Cllr.EmmaEdwards@bristol.gov.uk Cllr.LilyFitzgibbon@bristol.gov.uk Facebook: @ EmmaEdwardsLilyFitzGibbon
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
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n NEWS
Chandos Road Festival set for return A DATE for your diary. It’s been two years without a Chandos Road Festival but now it’s back. The date will be Sunday 26th September and it starts at 12noon till 6pm. The Neighbourhood Association and Chandos Traders are delighted to bring back this wonderful family-friendly event. There will be 3 stages with an eclectic selection of music for all tastes, performed by local bands, choirs, shanty groups and songsters. Along the street, stalls aplenty will be offering crafts, vintage, bric-a-brac etc. There will be lots of entertainment and activities for children. And of course, as it’s Chandos Road, there will be no shortage of refreshment options from several of our local businesses with pub, cafe and restaurant fare, and tea, cakes and ice creams. What’s not to enjoy? You’re urged to put the date on your calendar and keep your fingers crossed for a beautiful sunny day.
Local homes needed for Ukrainians THE Welcome Hub is open every Wednesday morning at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church, run by volunteers from Holy Trinity, Westbury Baptist and Westbury Methodist churches. Weekly attendance has been between 18 and 40 Ukrainian guests and hosts. The format is a coffee morning with facilities for children for Ukrainians and hosts to socialise, find out information about other organisations and attend English lessons if required. Some of the early arrivals have now moved into employment and children are attending schools. New guests are arriving each week. The Homes for Ukraine scheme required hosts to provide a home for at least 6 months. Guests had hoped that their stay in the UK would be short-term but now many Ukrainians are concerned about where they will live at the end of the 6 month period (they are looking for move-on accommodation). Most of the guests attending our Hub are either single women or mothers with children. Are you a landlord with property in BS6/BS7/BS9/BS10? Would you consider letting accommodation below the market rent for 12 months? Or you may have room in your home or a ‘granny annexe’ that would be suitable for a small family unit. If you would consider helping a family or a single person in this way, please email wotukrainianhub@gmail. com with your details and someone will contact you. As the Ukrainians are already living locally, you would not have to go through the process of sponsoring and Universal Credit should be available to help pay rent if they are not in work. We do hope for a good response to enable them to continue to live locally rather than disrupt their lives and children’s education once again.
Royal Horticultural Society Level 2 (industry recognised) courses at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden. Places available commencing September 2022
Start your career change now botanic-garden.bristol.ac.uk 0117 428 2041
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2022
n NEWS FROM OUR MP Representing you in Parliament and in Bristol As I write this, I have just finished giving my weekly speech in parliament as Shadow Leader of the House of Commons - my penultimate speech before parliament pauses over the summer with more time for constituency work. I used my speech to point out that this government is ignoring the day job – just when we need a competent government more than ever. Ministers have failed to turn up for key scrutiny in Parliament and are delaying legislation. Meanwhile, people in Bristol are struggling with the cost-ofliving crisis. As an indicator, the last four months have seen my office register an unprecedented rise of casework, with more than 500 people contacting us for help. 500 people who are dealing with difficult situations such
as money struggles, delays to passports, postponed hospital treatments or asylum decisions. On each of these issues I am fighting the corner of the people of Bristol West and challenging the government to do better.
Briefing on climate change by chief scientific advisor I was recently briefed by Sir Patrick Vallance, the government’s chief scientific adviser. During the briefing he warned me and my colleagues, that the world is about to face '50 years of really big problems relating to climate'. He also spoke about the need to continue to innovate, but also to push hard now on the implementation of the things that we have. We need urgent government action to tackle the climate emergency that follows this advice, such as Labour’s commitment to invest £28bn
every year that will create new jobs and innovation and invest in current technologies such as wind, solar and insulation for homes to help reduce bills and carbon emissions. I will continue to push the government for urgent action and help prepare a change in government so that we can protect our environment and preserve our planet.
Tackling anti-social behaviour on Turbo Island Many of you have written to me about the anti-social behaviour and fires at Turbo Island in Stokes Croft. I recently got together the landowner, Bristol City Council officers, councillors and the Avon & Somerset Police to discuss ways to put end to the antisocial behaviour and fires on the site. Following the meeting, the landowner will work with the Council to agree to improvement works on the land and identify
Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice
suitable proposals to use the space more constructively. I’ll keep on top of this situation and do everything I can to make sure it’s resolved. • Contact me at thangam. debbonaire.mp@parliament.uk. Alternatively, call 0117 3790980 10am - 4pm Monday-Friday.
Help us improve the way we let our homes Accessing council and social housing We are currently reviewing the way we let council and social housing. We want to ensure people have homes that meet their needs, giving priority to those who need it most, and making the application process easier. The review gives us the opportunity to look at who is housed, and why, and develop options for how to let social housing in the future. ●
Should we move to a system where the council takes more direct action to help someone find a home?
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Should we make changes to priority groups, including giving top priority to care leavers and under-occupiers?
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Should we extend the use of lettings policies that give priority to local people, and where should we introduce them?
We now need to hear from you, especially if you live in social housing or are currently on the waiting list. We need your views: www.ask.bristol.gov.uk/housing-allocations The consultation is live until Friday 7 October. If you would like this information in another language or accessible format, please email lettings.review@bristol.gov.uk or call 0117 352 1444.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk BD14860 Advert.indd 1
12/07/2022 12:44
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
n NEWS
Have your say on station revamp
The Big Butterfly Count is under way THE Big Butterfly Count 2022 is on right now. The main event is between 15th July and 7th August. The Big Butterfly Count is a nationwide citizen science survey aimed at helping us assess the health of our environment. It was launched in 2010 and has rapidly become the world's biggest survey of butterflies. Over 107,000 citizen scientists took part in 2021, submitting 152,039 counts of butterflies and day-flying moths from across the UK. We count butterflies because not only are they beautiful creatures to be around but they are also extremely important. They are vital parts of the ecosystem as both pollinators and components of the food chain. However, they are under threat. Numbers of butterflies and moths in the UK have decreased significantly since the 1970s. This is a warning that cannot be ignored. Counting butterflies can be described as taking the pulse of nature and we depend on you, our citizen scientists, to help us assess how much help nature needs. The data from this and other counts will also help us to identify important trends in species that will assist us in planning how to protect butterflies from extinction, as well as understanding the effect of climate change on wildlife. Simply count butterflies for 15 minutes during bright (preferably sunny) weather during the Big Butterfly Count. We have chosen this time of year because most butterflies are at the adult stage of their lifecycle, so more likely to be seen. Records are welcome from anywhere: from parks, school grounds and gardens, to fields and forests. Then either go to the website to record what you’ve seen or download the butterfly count app. There’s a butterfly id chart on both to help you record what you see. https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org/
Full Service
CLEANING
BRISTOL Parkway Station is seeking public comments on how they might re-vitalise the place as a fitting gateway to the north fringe of Bristol. But you’ve only got till mid-August to have your say. Just now parking there is somewhat confusing, temporary, changeable and dropping someone off or collecting them by car is not always easy or obvious as to where you are supposed to park. The Masterplan seeking your comments has a number of objectives to: • better connect the station to local communities • improve routes for walking, wheeling (such as mobility scooters) and cycling • improve connections to bus services • make better use of available land • improve the customer experience at the station • improve facilities at the station • improve access to the station • attract and retain the best talent and investment • respond to the climate and nature emergency An online event is being held Wednesday 3 August, 6pm to 7.30pm. If you want to attend the event, you need to email regeneration@southglos.gov.uk to receive a link and joining instructions. The final date for comments is Sunday 14 August at 23.59. Full consultation materials can be viewed here- https:// consultations.southglos.gov.uk/Parkway_Station_Masterplan
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Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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August, 2022
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
This summer, let’s explore local THERE’S no place like home when it comes to our summer holidays, for the staycation is back. With the ever-growing cost of living, not to mention the chaos at the Passport Office wrecking even the best-laid holiday plans, many are choosing to play it safe this year and sit out their summer getaway here in the UK. After two years of ‘stay at home’ orders and jumping around the living room with fitness guru Joe Wicks, who fully knew that the solitude of the West of England could help recharge all our batteries? Who realised that we could all feel reinvigorated by strolling through the gorgeous hills of the South West countryside – a walker’s paradise – from which you can see for miles? And who appreciated that from adventure parks to nature parks, from festivals to sporting activities, all the family can have a healthy dose of wholesome fun right here in our amazing region? The secret is now well and truly out. From play and learning at family-friendly favourites like Wild Place Project to the hidden gem that is Radstock Museum, our area is jam-packed with top places to explore.
That’s why, this year, I’ve encouraged all of you to make the most of our fantastic local attractions and get behind them as our pandemic-hit tourism sector gets back on its feet. My Explore Local campaign has already helped bring thousands of tourists back to our great region, but there is a way to go yet. And so, if this to be the summer of the great British ‘staycation’ - this a phrase that’s bandied about every year, but it’s fair to say that it’s never been more fitting – let’s take full advantage by visiting the truly amazing attractions we have locally. The UK may well be the staycation nation, but there is no better staycation destination than the West of England! This summer I’ve been busy visiting many of our great attractions. There are too many highlights to mention but some deserve a special shout out. In Bath I immersed myself in the spooky history of how Mary Shelley penned her bestselling Frankenstein novel in the city. I should warn you, this one ain’t for the faint-hearted – so children will love it! I got a sneak peek of a brand-new (and free!) outdoor photography gallery from Bristol’s Royal Photographic Society, too. And I’ve enjoyed
Metro Mayor
Dan Norris
writes for the Voice tea rooms and character in abundance in our beautiful historic market towns. We’re lucky to live in such a brilliant part of the world. While an exotic escape may be off the cards this year, have no fear. Let’s all get out there, soak in the atmosphere (and sun) and enjoy a staycation like no other. We should all fall back in love with holidaying at home here in the very special West of England. And a big bonus of keeping it local and travelling less far is that we can help save the planet too. I hope you have a great holiday.
A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Providing top quality, best value, holistic care Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy.
We also ensure: • 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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August, 2022
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n NEWS BRISTOL’S Clean Air Zone will start on November 28. The UK government requires that Bristol reduces city centre pollution by 2023. The Mayor Marvin Rees says that three quarters of the vehicles in the city are already compliant and won’t have to pay the £9 a day charge for entering the zone. Further the council has secured a £42 million grant to help people comply with the zone’s requirements. Nearly £2m of that money will be spent on helping people upgrade their pre-2006 petrol vehicles to a newer one which does comply. For diesel, most cars are compliant if made after 2015. You can check if your car is ok on the council website. Those wishing to get financial help to upgrade their vehicle have to register with the council beforehand. Financial support could be as much as £2000 for cars. Interest free Loans and grants will also be available to individuals and businesses who will be hit by the £9 a day charge. Priority will be given to those who work in the Clean Air Zone and earn less than £27,000 a year. The government grant will also be used to encourage people to try the buses with free tickets, get escooter credits and free cycling trials. www.bristol.gov.uk/caz
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August, 2022
n NEWS
Bristol Light Festival presents: Luminarium: a free, family event on College Green
LUMINARIUM is a fully accessible, multi-sensory pop-up coming to College Green on 4th -14th August from 1-7pm daily, brought to the city by Bristol Light Festival. Visitors are being invited to enter a world of wonder when inflatable domes filled with natural light and colour visit
the city this summer. Taking inspiration from natural forms, Islamic and Gothic cathedrals and modern architecture, the Luminarium is a sunlightpowered sensory experience featuring kaleidoscopic colours, domes, tunnels and pods. This installation is truly designed for every member of
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the family and every age group. The free-to-enter and inflatable walk-in art experience, half the size of a football pitch, has travelled with other luminaria across 43 countries, hosting a total of more than 3 million visitors since being created by Alan Parkinson, designer and founder of Architects of Air, in 1992. Alan Parkinson said: “We grew Architects of Air from a theatre project for people with learning disabilities. Inclusivity has remained at the heart of the work we do with each exhibition of Luminarium. It embraces all ages, all abilities, all cultures and communities.” Vicky Lee, Head of Bristol City Centre BID, said: “The summer in Bristol is a wonderful time to be in the city centre and hosting the magical Luminarium will be a great boost for the businesses in the area. It will
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fill our city with colour and art and be a fantastic addition to the already bustling calendar of events and experiences for tourists and residents alike.” Councillor Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet member for Finance, Governance and Performance, said: “We’re delighted to see the Luminarium arriving in the city in August. Culture and events form a key part of our city’s offering to those who choose to live, work and study here. Bringing people into the city is providing a much-needed boost to local businesses after a difficult few years. We look forward to seeing communities from across the city and all walks of life enjoy this free-to-access activity on College Green.” The Luminarium is fully wheelchair accessible, set across one level, and schools and organisations for children and
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August, 2022
Photo: Alan Parkinson adults with accessibility needs are being invited to join in the experience with quieter sessions available. Tickets are free for all and can be booked online in advance,
with walk-ups also available. Find out more about the Luminarium on Bristol Light Festival’s website: bristollightfestival.org.
Photo: Jesse Hunniford
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD Fraud and cybercrime are the most common criminal offences in the UK. As the threat continues to grow and evolve, it’s important to remember one thing - most of it can be prevented. By following just a few steps, you can make it harder for fraudsters to steal your money or personal information when online, on the phone or at your front door.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
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n NEWS
n TEENAGE VOICE
CHILDREN’S charity Jessie May has announced a new CEO. Daniel Cheesman joins Jessie May from Coalpit Heath charity Paul’s Place, where he spent the past three years. Jessie May’s previous CEO, Chris Roys, has retired after 17 years at the helm. The Kingswood charity provides ‘hospice at home’ care for terminally-ill children. It was set up in 1994 by Philippa and Chris Purrington after the death of their four-month-old daughter Jessica May. It employs a team of nurses to provide palliative care for the child and bereavement care for families after a child’s death. This costs around £1.3 million for every child and family helped. Mr Cheesman said: “I am honoured to be joining a committed and passionate team.”
UMMER has swept over Bristol like a cloud of wasps, with temperatures reaching well above 30 degrees. As the summer holidays have kicked into gear, ice creams and sun hats have replaced school uniforms and it's easy to be swept up in the glee of actual good weather. But this coming heatwave is just another signal of the future the climate crisis currently has promised. The weather may just be an excuse to lather on sunscreen, barbecue to your heart's content and snooze in the warmth, but fears run deep, even in this British summer time. We, as the future generation, will be the ones most impacted by the decisions made and actions taken now. With the government in shambles (already a promising sign) the issue of climate change seems to be dropping in priority, especially given our slow emergence from the pandemic. The outcomes of the COP 26 at the start of the year were disappointingly unbinding, and with promises from the last meeting still unmet things don't look too hopeful. But as proved by the millions who joined the school strikes worldwide, and by powerful activists like Greta Thunberg and the Extinction Rebellion group, we can make a difference, and do something to stop this. Bristol was named green capital of Europe in 2015, surely we can reclaim our title? All over the city the trademark hourglass can be seen fighting for free and equal public transport for
August, 2022
Cool! We can make a difference
Charity's new chief
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Ella Gilbert enjoys an ice cream as much as the next person but wants us all to heed the warnings of climate change and help Bristol reach its net zero goals students, and since the 2019 Climate Emergency Action Plan, student climate panels have been formed, culminating in a mock COP26 meeting. Our council’s aim of reaching carbon neutrality by 2030 is an achievable goal, and by cutting back on driving, using more public transport and being less wasteful, we can do this. But the responsibility is not purely on us. The council's promise to build affordable, insulated buildings must be upheld, for the sake of our people and our planet. Youth voices do matter, and to everyone who is feeling the pressing weight of climate anxiety and fears for your future I urge you to do what you can - no impact is too small. Enjoy the British summer time, and do what is best for our future.
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August, 2022
27
n NEWS
Local artists bring a splash of colour to St Paul's ST Paul's is already one of most vibrant areas of Bristol, but is now an altogether more colourful place thanks to a £10,000 community art project funded by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. A year in the painting, the community mural project includes a painting at St Paul’s Nursery School and Children’s Centre featuring trees found in the nursery garden; an artwork at the Green Melon fruit and veg box shop; and a painting of lovely leaves at St Paul’s Adventure Playground from the London Plane tree destroyed in an arson attack during lockdown. Another mural at St Barnabas Primary celebrates the plentiful plants found in the school's sensory garden. The murals have been designed and decorated by local artists Graft, a small team of Bristol-based graffiti and street artists.
Sophie and Rob Wheeler, who run Graft, are also parents at St Barnabas Primary, so this project is close to their hearts. Mr Norris said: “Home to one of the biggest, and best, street parties in Europe and with
a strong sense of community, St Paul's has always been such a creative and vibrant area in this great city. I’m so proud to see these amazing murals, fully funded by the West of England Combined Authority I lead,
celebrating St Paul's. They will put a smile on many people’s faces. I’m committed to working with local people on projects that bring pride to our area. A big thank you to the super-talented Graft team”.
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n ADVERTISING FEATURE
ADVERTISING FEATURE
CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT
James Scrimshaw of CURA CLINICAL explains how new technologies are providing effective answers to people’s pain and suffering
MBST Cell regeneration: What is MBST? MBST uses exactly the same technology as MRI scanning, just without the detector coils and imaging software. MBST stands for Molecular Biophysical Stimulation. It was discovered by a German doctor who noticed that some of his MRI patients had reduced symptoms following their MRI scans. He then assembled a team of biologists and physicists to research these positive effects at a cellular level. Cells that had not functioned properly due to damage , were stimulated in such a way by the energy transfer that they could again fulfil their original tasks. It does this at cell level in a number of ways: - Optimising cell oxygen levels - Improving Cell energy production - Optimising intercellular signalling pathways - Reducing inflammatory mediators - Readjusting cell circadian clock-leading to less cell death and cell reproduction.
I’ve also just discharged Kate (left), 5 months following treatment for her arthritic knees (she’d already had a half knee replaced). She’s now pain free… I anticipate these results will last a number of years.
This translates to you and I as a healing process in the tissue the energy is applied to which leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in the natural mobility and lifestyle of the patient without any need of invasive therapy. Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results.
The results we’re seeing now in patients with varying injuries and conditions is really remarkable. Rob (above) is a great example of how MBST heals cartilage in a moderate to severe arthritic knee. 15 months after his MBST therapy he now runs, plays racket ball and golf without any pain and that’s without his braces. He’s recently done a course on his severe arthritic neck and after 3-4 months has significantly less neck pain and improved mobility. Over the next 6 months I expect his condition to reach over 90% improvement.
August, 2022
bishopstonvoice
n NEWS
Repair Cafe open for business IF it ain’t broke don’t fix it - but if it is then you might try the good old boys at the Ardagh Repair Café. With decades of hands-on experience between them they know a thing or two. At first they could not even get the case off this CD player, but they don’t give up easily and then they had to tackle the mystery of just why the CD tray would not open. Nothing was jamming it – no child had posted a crisp in the “letter-box” – so it had to be an electrical fault. The crew here are used to fixing things on the spot and usually do, but if more expert attention and specialist tools are required then they’ll take the item home to work on. Sharpening stuff is a common demand – household knives, secateurs, hedge trimmers, lawn mower blades. Irons which have conked out are unusually common. No job appears to be too daunting for this band of former engineers, electricians and odd-jobbers. They enjoy their work, they charge nothing, but a small donation helps them replenish supplies etc. They meet and are open for business on the third Saturday every month from 10-12noon in the shed next to the café. No tools are left in the building between workshops.
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Bee and Pollination Festival at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden 27th - 28th August 2022
SUV drivers targeted FOR the fifth time since March climate change activists have targeted SUV drivers in Clifton by letting down their tyres. They damaged 90 cars recently and hundreds have had their tyres let down overnight by the activists who call themselves the Tyre Extinguishers. Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are typically higher Anti theft dustcaps, other styles off the ground, are often are available 4x4, have rugged styling and larger engines which consume more fuel and therefore have higher emissions. The climate change activists claim that if the owners of SUVs worldwide were equal to a nation they would be the sixth largest polluters of the planet. Police say the activists have targeted SUVs in Clifton, Cotham, Redland and Stoke Bishop. In a statement posted on their website, the group say there should be a ban on all SUVs in urban areas. They call for "pollution levies to tax SUVs out of existence, and massive investment in free, comprehensive public transport". They say they will continue to extinguish tyres "until politicians make this a reality". Police are treating all such incidents as criminal damage. Some tyres are irreparably damaged by the weight of the car if deflated. Police suggest people should park on their driveway if they have one rather than the road. They want all incidents reported because it enables them to see patterns of behaviour and local hotspots. The activists remove the tyre dustcap to discharge the air inside. Anti-theft dust caps which need a special “unlocking key” can be bought to combat anyone who wants to let down your tyres.
For details visit: botanic-garden. bristol.ac.uk University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Stoke Park Rd, Bristol BS9 1JG. Tel: 0117 428 2041 Email: botanic-gardens@bristol.ac.uk
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Voice mag ad_bee_22.indd 1
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bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
n LOCAL HISTORY
It's full circle at Ashley Down Station - but don't expect steam trains!
by Harry Mottram
I
T was the year that the Conservative Prime Minister Sir Alec Douglas-Home lost the General Election to Labour’s Harold Wilson, Bristol Rovers were in the old Third Division finishing 12th and Ashley Down Station was closed. The year was 1964. This act of industrial vandalism was part of a far wider destruction of Britain’s branch lines and railway stations deemed to be loss making in what were known as the Beeching Cuts. The titular character in all of this was Richard Beeching who was employed by the Government in 1963 to produce a report on the future of the stateowned railways which were losing money. The unimaginative plans which were carried out by both Labour and Conservative Governments was to simply axe countless stations, branch lines, station yards and associated buildings and subsidiary businesses. A third of the network was closed. By 1968 the plans had failed as they were still losing money and some subsidies were introduced but the closures continued until a rethink began in the 1990s as passenger numbers picked up to the point today that travelling by train is often a crowded and expensive business. For the first time since those days there has been a policy of reopening lines and re-establishing stations. One such project is for Ashley Down Station to reopen albeit not in the same Victorian buildings but close by. It had operated for more than 100 years serving Bishopston, Ashley Down, St Werburghs, St Agnes and St Andrews when it was shut but unlike many lines the railway lines continued to run since from Temple Meads the tracks head to Wales, the Midlands and London. The new station is all part of a plan to reopen the Henbury Line under the West of England Combined Authority’s (WECA) Metro West project which will eventually see the long-awaited reopening of the Portishead line with a new station for Pill and of course Portishead. And there is support for more stations to
Artist's illustration of the proposed station open or be built including ones for Horfield and Lockleaze not far from Ashley Down – although these two are considered to be ‘aspirational’ by WECA which in modern parlance is ‘one day in the future perhaps.’ Photographs from the early 20th century of the station show a two-track line as opposed to the four today along with an open to the sky iron passenger footbridge now replaced with a modern footbridge. The line around the time of the Great War was still surrounded by fields with the suburbs of Lockleaze and Horfield yet to grow while the trains were pulled by steam engines until the early 1960s. Steam trains have sadly gone from the national network and the new station is unlikely to see a station master and porters let alone the requirement to buy a platform ticket for a penny. The station was opened in 1864 by the Bristol and South Wales Union Railway, which was absorbed by the Great Western Railway in 1868. The station passed to the Western Region of British Railways on nationalisation in 1948. The man at the helm of WECA is the metro mayor - as he is popularly known – Dan Norris. He said the MetroWest developments ‘could generate over a million new rail journeys and give 80,000 more people access to train service.’ The project is well under way with hourly services to Severn Beach, a new station at Portway, and new stations at Henbury and North
Ashley Down Station 1890 Photo from Bristol's Suburbs Long Ago by Reece Winstone
Filton to cater for the rise in trains that run. Of course, that is assuming that the trains are running with shortages of staff and industrial action reliability has been an issue for some years. The romantics will tell you the golden age Ashley Down Station 1905 of steam railways Photo from Bristol's Suburbs Long Ago by Reece Winstone was a time when Britain was truly Down Station has turned full connected by rail circle with a national consensus the was another side. Steam trains at odds with the Beeching cuts. required huge amounts of coal Some things don’t change though which in turn created pollution as Bristol Rovers are in the same – especially in tunnels and in league as they were in 1964, except shunting yards. And there is little it’s not called The Third Division evidence to suggest they were any but League One instead and there more reliable than today’s diesel is a Conservative Government and electrified locomotives, in fact that could be facing an unwanted they were almost certainly just as general election this autumn just prone to breakdowns and indeed as Sir Alex Douglas-Home did in industrial action. 1964. And so, the history of Ashley
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
August, 2022
n NEWS HENLEAZE Tennis Club are thrilled to learn that Avon Tennis have awarded Head Coach, Will Hardiman, Development Coach of the Year. In just two years Will has built a thriving coaching programme at the club and some of the adults and children on the programme thought it was about time to ask him a few questions! We know you were a junior national player. What did you enjoy most? I loved playing tournaments. We travelled to match plays, indoor series and events most weekends in the winter and then played the outdoor tournaments in the spring/summer including the nationals and clay court series at venues like West Hants and Solihull. How many hours each week did you train? 15-18 hours a week, maybe more? I played pretty much every day for 3 or 4 hours. I started tennis relatively late, at 9 or 10 years of age and won my first Avon County Championships at 12 so I improved very quickly. I was very enthusiastic and intense about the game. What was your favourite court surface and tournament and why? I enjoyed playing on grey clay and hardcourts because it was slower. I had more time in the rally to organise my shots and move my opponent around the court. When I won the Road To Wimbledon in Avon I played on the grass courts at Wimbledon - playing at SW19 was fun and a bit of a novelty! My favourite tournament was the Cheltenham Open at East Glos in the first week of the Easter holidays and the Torbay Open in the summer (they were quite big events then). What do you enjoy most about coaching? I enjoy combining technique with tactical outcomes in the context of singles. I get satisfaction from helping a player improve their mindset on the court and seeing their confidence build to a point where they can begin to resolve problems with their game themselves. Tennis is a very psychological game and that is something that interests me a lot. Which stroke do you like teaching best? Why? I enjoy teaching the serve and have had most success teaching this shot. It is the most important playing situation in tennis and therefore if it is done well it can win lots of easy points. What is the difference between going to one of your general
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Will named coach of the year
groups or a select group? Our general groups are fun and a great introduction into tennis. Perhaps the mindset in our select groups is the key difference? The select groups have more emphasis on progression and training to compete. We work them harder! What is your philosophy behind the delivery of camps? FUN! Our camps are a great first step into tennis and the aim is for everyone to leave inspired to play more tennis. Our camps are very social! Who do you most like watching play today and why? My favourite players today are Carlos Alcaraz for his sheer athleticism and Simona Halep for her superhuman ball striking abilities. I also enjoy watching Kyrgios for the entertainment value! When on court coaching for long hours, what do you like to eat to keep your energy up? Flapjack, bananas, coffee... I eat light when I am coaching to avoid feeling lethargic! Will you encourage your children to be tennis players? I have reservations about pushing my child into tennis...I have played tennis all my life so I would be relieved if he did something else. But he is only three months old so time will tell...I could quite easily become a tennis parent! Are you a comedian? Why did you ask that? You make us laugh!
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bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
33
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES
A toast to vines - and wonderful wildlife 2022 really is the year of the great mulch! Back in May I wrote about starting to improve the vineyard soil by putting a thick layer of mushroom compost under each vine – it’s late summer now and we’re still busy mulching. We concentrated on the baby vines at first and are now moving onto the section which has the older, more established vines. We have around 2400 vines in total so it’s a long term project. It’s great to see the benefits when a previously small, young vine suddenly shoots ahead with a bit of extra nutrient availability. Our rented land is quite hard clay in areas so the compost really helps the young vines establish quickly. As well as mulching, we’re also doing a lot of regular strimming to keep on top of the plants and grasses growing directly under the vines. We try as always to leave a real mixture of short and long growth in the main vineyard rows to provide as many habitats as possible for wildlife. Every year is different in terms of the wildlife we see. Last year we saw loads of elephant hawk moth caterpillars but so far this year we’ve not seen any. This year we seem to have an abundance have of devils horse coachman beetles and toads! Every year has different winners and losers and it’s not
always obvious why. On the wine front, we had our rosé launch in the Bristol Beacon foyer at the start of June which was exciting! As you might expect, it’s proving very popular in the warm weather. Our new sparkling red and sparkling white wines will be bottled in a few weeks. We hope they’ll be available before Christmas.
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34
n BARBARA'S VOICE
House-swapping? Bishopston-based Barbara Bloomfield enjoys her free holidays but asks: could you cope with an incontinent cat, severe furniture envy or a fascist granny in the annexe? AS you read this, my husband Ben and I will be on our way back from a fantastic week’s holiday in Devon costing £40 - just the price of our petrol. We are swapping homes with two people we’ve never met, Jill and Mike, a couple from Teignmouth who want to
get to know north Bristol better. Ben and I are experienced swappers (only of homes!) and I know it’s not for everyone. As my good friend Jayne says with a look of horror: “Never, no way! They might look in my underwear drawer.” If you’re someone who would be similarly bothered, turn the page now, because this article will only frighten you further. It’s not going to be your Java. What we find fascinating about home-swapping is trying to decode what the other couple or family might be like through their domestic routines. For example, a swappee once phoned me from Switzerland with an urgent plea: “Barbara, where are your teaspoons? Your spoons are too big for our yoghurt pots.” I mischievously answered: “I’m afraid that in Britain we don’t use teaspoons” leaving our swappee reeling, a gibbering wreck with unmet Swiss cutlery needs. I had to admit to a recent swappee that we did not have a ‘small watering can’ and tend to use a mug to slosh water over our plants. Queries like these have
August, 2022
made me realise that our house is very ‘basic and simple’ and we don’t have a lot of fancy kitchen stuff that others might take for granted. For example, we only have three pans and, with my cooking ability, that’s more than enough. All our home swaps have been conducted through the Guardian Home Exchange and it hasn’t let us down. For a few pounds a year you get access to swappers in virtually every country in the world who want to come to the UK. But you have to take things as you find them. Our Austrian family warned us at the last minute that an elderly granny living in their annexe might have a picture of Hitler on her mantelpiece. Apparently she liked to remember the ‘good old days’ and they were trying to be sensitive to my Jewish husband’s feelings. Fortunately, perhaps, we had no language in common with the granny and gave her a wide berth. Perhaps the most challenging discovery happened in Portland, Oregon. By the time we arrived, our swappee’s 18 year old cat
had been shut in the basement for several days. There was a heatwave going on and the smell that wafted up to the bedrooms was indescribable. I sent Ben downstairs with a shovel… So what do our visitors say about north Bristol? Well, they love it. Of course they do! They love our many charity shops in the Gloucester Road and Henleaze and Westbury village - which are virtually unknown in Europe. They love the quirky spots and the tiny community libraries and the cornucopia of independent businesses. They love the little cafes and the range of world foods available locally. The only thing they do not love, because we often swap our cars as well as our homes, are the narrow streets of north Bristol which frighten our intrepid drivers half to death. One family described our twisty roads as “worse than dodgems at the fair.” There are dozens of homeswap sites available, catering for different needs and with differing costs, rules and regulations. I really hope you will give it a go and find one that suits you!
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bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
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n BOOKS 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World by Elif Shafak Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library We start at the end. It is November 1990. The UN has authorized military intervention in Iraq. Margaret Thatcher has resigned as Prime Minister. German reunification is complete. Meanwhile, the body of the recently deceased 43 year old Leila lies inside a metal rubbish bin, on the outskirts of Istanbul. The novel covers the 10 minutes and 38 seconds following her death as her consciousness recalls memories from her past, including those shared with her five friends who are desperately seeking to find her. Every chapter is guided by Leila’s vibrant memory sparked by a specific smell or taste. We learn about Leila’s birth and upbringing. After many miscarriages Leila’s mother gives birth to her, only to be instantly deprived of Leila when her husband decrees that his childless first wife is to be the mother of his child. Leila’s real mother becomes her aunt. Leila endures a traumatic childhood. Raped by her uncle, she becomes pregnant and miscarries. Age 16, she decides to
leave for Istanbul. Alone in an unknown city, she is befriended by a boy who sells her to strangers for sex. She becomes a whore, working in a brothel . As well as Leila’s backstory, the author weaves in those of her five dear friends all of whom she has given affectionate nicknames. We are introduced to transgender Nostalgia Nalan. Formerly Osman the youngest son of a farming family, in his mind he is always a girl never a boy. Teased and bullied at school, and unsupported by his family, he runs away to Istanbul. We also meet Sabotage Sinan who was brought up by his single mother, living above a pharmacy where she worked. He is an expert on the First and Second World Wars. He befriends Laila and feeds her books, newspapers and magazines. Then there’s Jameelah who was born in Somalia, and who flees to Istanbul when the civil war breaks out, ending up working in the same brothel as Laila. Zaynab122 is very short (122 cms high) with a cleft palate. She mops the floors and cleans the toilets and rooms in the brothel. She is a fortune teller, using tea leaves, wine dregs and coffee grounds to predict the future lives of Leila and the other whores. Holywood Humeyra is a music hall singer. Betrothed at 15, married at 16, she lived with her cruel in-laws and was beaten by her husband, before escaping to Istanbul. This is an engrossing, imaginative and unflinching novel. Istanbul is beautifully evoked by the author, who was born and was brought up in the city. Elif Shafak portrays the trauma women’s minds
and bodies are subjected to in patriarchal Turkish society. What shines through, however is the enduring, strong bonds of female friendship, with Leila and her friends finding love, comfort and joy in the family they create for themselves, having been disowned by their own blood families. For this book, and many more, come and visit us at Bishopston Library. You can find us at 100A Gloucester Road.
Opening Hours Monday (1pm-7pm) Tuesday (closed) Wednesday (11am-5pm) Thursday (11am-5pm) Friday (11am-5pm) Saturday (11am-5pm) Sunday (closed)
*Free Bristol Valuation Days* Tuesday 13th September
Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
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01934 830 111 info@clevedonsalerooms.com Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT
Small collection of autographs, to include John Lennon (1963) with photograph Sold for £2,600
Consigned at one of our regular Bristol Valuation Days
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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August, 2022
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Visit Bristol Zoo Gardens for the very last time this summer MANY of you will remember visiting Bristol Zoo Gardens as a child, and may have brought your children… or even grandchildren. From 21 July, Bristol Zoo Gardens is marking its last chapter, before closing on Saturday 3 September, with its BIG Summer Send-Off celebration event. The centrepiece of the final summer programme is ‘Wilder’, a specially-commissioned wooden clad gorilla sculpture, which is taller than the largest giraffe ever recorded, and as wide as three king size beds. Sitting tall on the main lawn, ‘Wilder’ delights visitors with surprise movements throughout the day as she ‘eats’ lettuce, sprays unsuspecting families with water and reveals her baby ‘Monty-Alan’ – a name inspired by the national park in Equatorial Guinea where Bristol Zoological Society works to protect western lowland gorillas in the wild. The Zoo is also running ‘Into The Wild' theatre shows where
children get to wear animal-eared headphones and dance around to fun conservation-inspired music, stories and games. BIG Summer Send-Off also features a ‘Past, Present, Future’ timeline exhibition on the Zoo's historic top terrace. It will include poems, pictures, and stories on ribbons, shared by visitors. For a chance to feature on the timeline, Bristol Zoo Gardens is asking people to share their favourite memories using the hashtag #TheZooAndYou, and tag Bristol Zoo Gardens on Facebook @ BristolZooGardens and Instagram @bristolzoo. As well as all of these exciting events, Bristol Zoo Gardens is home to incredible animal species, including the famous gorilla troop, red pandas, penguins and sloths. Enjoy a final special day out to Bristol Zoo Gardens this summer! For information and tickets for Bristol Zoo Gardens and its BIG Summer Send-Off, go to bristolzoo. org.uk.
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Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
August, 2022
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37
n MAYOR'S VIEW
Taking Pride in Bristol IT has been wonderful to see people being able to gather together again for the festivals and celebrations that make Bristol such an amazing place to live in and visit in summer. It has been wonderful to see such flagship events as the Harbour Festival, St Paul’s Carnival and the Bristol Balloon Fiesta back in action after the pandemic. And I write this month’s column the day after the city enjoyed fabulous weather for Bristol Pride. Once again, Pride provided an opportunity for the city to celebrate and to secure LGBTQ+ people’s hard-fought rights. I want to send again my thanks to the organisers for two weeks of brilliant events – culminating in the Pride Parade and the festival on The Downs. It was a fantastic day, with tens of thousands of people marching, visiting the
organisations represented at the community tent, and enjoying entertainment across five stages in the sunshine. At the festival, just before Carly Rae Jepsen took to the stage, I announced another opportunity for Bristol to come together again. Despite winning the Eurovision Song Contest in May, incredibly sadly, Ukraine won’t host the contest in 2023. The BBC have been asked to take on Eurovision next year. And as a global and diverse City of Sanctuary that has for many years extended the hand of welcome to those fleeing conflict, Bristol can be the caretaker of next year’s Eurovision Song Contest. We’re working in partnership with YTL Arena Bristol on a bid to bring Eurovision to the Brabazon Hangers. We have the perfect site, where we can custom-build the
perfect Eurovision Song Contest, with sustainability, inclusion and legacy at its core. We know that the city and region’s tourism and hospitality sector would benefit from such a huge event, as we know how important events and festivals like these are to Bristol’s economy. To give just one example, the Bristol Light Festival brought a £3.4 million benefit Each month Bristol mayor to local businesses in the city. Across the region, Bristol’s visitor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice economy is worth more than £2.33 billion, and supports over 45,000 jobs. As a city, we have a if we’re given the opportunity, phenomenal track record on we can do the same with the putting on events that celebrate Eurovision Song Contest in 2023. Bristol’s history and our diverse I hope you all get to enjoy a communities. We put on shows brilliant summer of events – from that attract people from all over family gatherings and smaller the world to our city, and leave community-based festivities to them with life-long memories of the many major events planned across the city. their time in Bristol. I know that
The Mayor’s View
Charity celebrates
Summer Reading challenge THIS year, The Reading Agency have teamed up with the Science Museum Group to offer a science-themed challenge; Gadgeteers. Gadgeteers encourages children to have fun reading and discover many aspects of science engagement, including food, fashion, music, and sport. There is something for all young readers to enjoy in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, which will feature inspiring books and rewards to keep children entertained. The challenge has been taken up by the city Libraries and Bristol City Council. Councillor Ellie King, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Public Health and Communities, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a wonderful way to encourage young readers to get excited about books and
reading that’s engaging and fun. We are delighted to be working alongside the Science Museum Group to offer a science-themed challenge this summer. The Gadgeteers-theme aims to show our children that science is all around us, as well as to inspire children to think creatively about science. “It will be great to see children and families making the most of this fun and free initiative which is both stimulating and educational over the summer holiday.” To take part in Gadgeteers, all children need to do is sign up at their nearest library, where they will be given a collector folder to keep a record of their Summer Reading Challenge journey. As children read library books, they will receive special stickers, and will be rewarded with a medal
and certificate at the end of the challenge. Young readers can also take part online with the digital challenge, with fun online games and rewards. There are lots of events and activities planned at Bristol libraries for families over the summer to celebrate the Summer Reading Challenge, including interesting children’s author events, and arts and crafts. Library staff have also been attending school assemblies across the city to promote the challenge. Children can find competitions, challenges, author interviews, news, and the book sorter - which recommends what children might like to read next, on the website summerreadingchallenge.org. uk throughout the year.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
OPOKA, a Polish domestic violence service for women and their children is marking its tenth anniversary. The charity, which is based in Bristol and runs a helpline in Polish that covers the whole of the UK, is holding a fundraising gala at the Bristol Harbour Hotel on September 17. Funds raised on the night will go to opening a Safe House for women and their children who experienced domestic violence and abuse. Safe spaces for survivors fleeing domestic abuse are needed now more than ever. During the pandemic, domestic violence refuges has seen a drastic increase in referrals, and it is estimated that in the years 2019 and 2020, 57% of referrals to safe houses were rejected due to lack of spaces. During the gala there will be awards ceremony, charity auction and lottery and entertainment . To find out more or book tickets, email: info@opoka.org. uk
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August, 2022
n NEWS
Bowlers gather at St Andrew's for match to mark improvements to clubhouse THE Friends of England Bowls were guests of the Bristol St Andrew's club at a special game in July to mark the new improvements to the clubhouse and a grant from Ibstock Enovert Trust which, in part, has made this possible. Most of the Friends team, from across the South and West, had driven through heavy rain to Bristol, and prospects for play looked unlikely, but as they arrived - some very wet - the St Andrew's Club assured the players that, though heavy, the green was playable. A most enjoyable match followed, avoiding further rain, with the Friends winning two, drawing one and coming second on the fourth rink to win overall by 60 shots to 49. Both teams were treated to an enjoyable meal after the game. The club chairman, John Pearce, outlined some of the work that the members of Bristol St Andrew’s had done in recent years to
improve their clubhouse which had been in a poor state of repair. A £50,000 major grant was awarded by Enovert Community Trust in 2017, with solar panels installed at the club. In 2020 the Trust funds allowed the installation of energy
efficient windows and doors. Bristol St Andrews is always looking for new members and the bar and function room are available for hire at reasonable rates. Visit www.bsabowls.co.uk.
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Get ready for Bristol’s Clean Air Zone
Summer 2022
Bristol is introducing a Clean Air Zone to reduce harmful pollution. Older and more polluting vehicles will be charged to enter the zone. Check your vehicle online and find out how we can help you prepare for the zone.
bristol.gov.uk/cleanairzone
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
40
n WHAT'S ON From 23 July - 4 September 2022. n DISHES OF DISCOVERY AT BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN - Already known as the ‘world’s smelliest museum’ with hundreds of sights, sounds and smells, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is about to get tasty this summer. Embark on a global voyage of taste without leaving Bristol as you sample delicacies inspired by Victorian voyages to destinations visited by the ship. August 4-7 n 'BEYOND HEDONISM' THE GREEN GATHERING 2022, award winning, family friendly, off grid festival, 4th - 7th August, Piercefield Park near Chepstow. This is the annual fundraiser for the Green Gathering Charity, which promotes ecology and sustainability. Tickets and info at: http://www.greengathering.org.uk. REGULAR EVENTS Monday n REDLAND WIND BAND has vacancies for some woodwind, brass and percussion players. This friendly group meets 7.30-9.30pm at Redland Church Hall, Redland Green. Contact via email on redlandwindband@gmail.com n TAI CHI & QI GONG. Weekly beginners / improvers classes
with Tai Chi Body and Mind. These classes are for your physical and mental health and wellbeing – there is no fighting. In Person: Mondays, Fairfield High School, Alfoxton Rd. 7.30 – 8.30pm. Online: Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30pm. Contact: Claire - Claire@taichibodyandmind. co.uk (07769 857672). Tuesday THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL LECTURE welcomes new members. Our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, take place on the second Tuesday of the month from September to May at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW and by internet. For more information on our lectures and other activities visit our website www.theartssociety-bristol.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. Wednesday n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Sheila on 01179570792 or 07435316458 or email shinett@blueyonder.co.uk Thursday 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.
n BISHOP ROAD COMMUNITY CHOIR are meeting Thursday evenings at 7.30pm to 9.00pm at st. Michael & All Angels Church on gloucester road. Contact us via email on choir@gmail.Com n LOCAL CHOIR ACTIVELY RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See our website www.henburysingers. org or contact the secretary at secretary@henburysingers.org. 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
Publicise your event for free Call: 0117 9082121
n SPORT
Ladies hockey sessions on offer IF you’re looking forward to watching some hockey at the Commonwealth Games this summer, why not go along to Redland Ladies Hockey adult beginner/returner/taster sessions this August? We’re running two sessions under England Hockey’s Back to Hockey scheme – a great way to get fit, meet new people, revitalise your interest in hockey or learn a new sport. The sessions are run by our very experienced coach, Cath, assisted by other regular players and you will have chance to practice and develop basic hockey skills. Previously players who have come along to these sessions just to see what’s going on, or try themselves out, now play in our league teams. The August 2022 sessions are being held on Mondays 15th and 29th August, 6.30pm to 8pm at Badminton School, Westburyon-Trym, BS9 3BA. No payment required, we can lend you a stick.
GOAL! - first of many (“and yes, we know that 29th August is a Bank Holiday, but not everyone goes away”, say the
club) redlandladieshockey.co.uk If you want to find out more or register your interest
contact Cath on JnrManager. RedlandLadiesHockey@gmail. com
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
August, 2022
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n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Brunel’s SS Great Britain presents: Your Ticket to Taste the World READY to embark on a global voyage of taste without leaving Bristol? Already known as the ‘world’s smelliest museum’ with hundreds of sights, sounds and smells experienced by visitors every day, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is about to get tasty this summer with a brand new activity, ‘Dishes of Discovery’. They’re inviting visitors to taste the world, offering them the chance to sample delicacies inspired by Victorian voyages≠≠ to destinations visited by the ship in the 18th Century. From 23 July to 4 September, visitors who step aboard the SS Great Britain will taste historic recipes from Mumbai, Cape Town and Crimea discovering how the world’s first great ocean liner connected people and places around the world. The dishes have been created by Bristol-based social enterprise, Travelling Kitchen, whose team worked with the ship’s archivists to explore historic recipes from around the globe. The dishes created include a zingy Melon and Ginger Jam from Cape Town, traditional Borsch from Crimea and a tropical green coriander and coconut chutney from Mumbai - and are typical of those that passengers would have encountered as they disembarked in the faraway destinations. Your usual favourites at Brunel’s SS Great Britain are open all summer long, too. Don’t forget to visit the two hands-on museums, historic dockyard, dramatic dry dock and the ship herself. And remember - you can enjoy coming back time and time again with your ticket. It’s valid for a year!
Use your tastebuds to explore the world this summer at Brunel’s SS Great Britain as you discover flavours from the ship’s lesser-known destinations. Plan your adventure at ssgreatbritain.org/summer2022
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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August, 2022
n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Birchall Road £925,000 A BEAUTIFULLY presented 1920s home offered with no chain, located on the South West side of a neighbourly and highly desirable road along the Redland and West Bishopston borders. This is an exceptional property and makes a perfect family home as it falls in the catchment of highly regarded schools whilst being in easy reach of all the amenities on Gloucester Road. Of particular note here is the 29m / 95ft South West facing garden, with uninterrupted views over allotments and beyond. A 6.2 x 3m / 20.3 x 9.8ft detached garage sits with the garden and offers plenty of potential to become a work from home space. The house itself has spacious accommodation spread over three light and airy floors and measures an impressive 178 sq. m / 1918 sq. ft. In brief the layout is as follows; a generous entrance hallway opens on the left into a formal and separate reception room. A bay window adds additional light and the private feel is enhanced by no.29 sitting directly opposite the entrance to Malmesbury Close. A striking colour scheme gives a modern and attractive look and complements the stripped wooden floors perfectly. A multi fuel wood burning stove is set within the period fireplace, giving life and of course warmth on a winter's day. The rear of the property has been opened up linking the 2nd reception room to the kitchen, creating a full width and light filled living space. The kitchen combines tiling inspired by the period of the house with subtle and yet high end modern finishes - such as the Belgian limestone work surfaces. A wood burning stove is again set within a period fireplace and patio doors connect this space to the rear gardens. The galleried staircase leads up to the first floor, where three spacious bedrooms and a good sized family bathroom are found. This staircase has been replicated up to the loft conversion - really making it feel like an original floor to the house. The top floor's bright landing doubles up as a study area and gives access into the thoughtfully designed master bedroom. The tall roof pitch gives a fantastic feeling of space and the far reaching views can be appreciated through three Velux windows. A smart ensuite shower room is neatly tucked away, as is plenty of built in storage.
Outside, the rear garden faces directly South West and given its elevated position the sunshine can be enjoyed right up until the last possible moment. The wonderful garden has many well established shrubs and trees, including a bountiful apple tree, providing interest throughout the seasons.
Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
201 Gloucester Road Bishopston Bristol BS7 8BG Sales: 0117 942 5855
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022
43
n PUZZLE PAGE
The FIEND
Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.
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For younger readers
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Tel: 0117 9422152
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On the first floor and situated just off the Gloucester Road with LED lighting and near to all amenities ie. the main post office Price on application Terms are flexible Please ring to view
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Rules the same as the Fiend, but only six numbers in each box, row and column
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EDWARDS & GREEN ECO-FRIENDLY, FEMALE PAINTING & DECORATING Free Quotations & Advice
EdwardsAndGreen.com Call: 07773 533926
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
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August, 2022
n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC
Protect yourself against cyber fraud AS I’ve mentioned before, I am the national police and crime commissioner lead for economic and cybercrime and, along with my team, I continue to work with Avon and Somerset Police and partners to raise awareness of the signs of fraud and prevent local people from becoming victims in the first place. As part of this work, we have distributed fraud protection postcards to over 160,000 households across 60 postcodes in Avon and Somerset. You can find this postcard in this edition of the Voice,, for you to cut out and keep beside your phone, pin on your fridge or by your front door. I want local people to use this postcard, so if and when a scammer contacts you, you know how to spot the signs of fraud and protect yourself. The postcard is also available on my website to download and print. Moving on, I’m delighted to tell
you about the fantastic results of the latest Operation Scorpion, the regional crackdown on drugs. Colleagues across the South West region carried out operations to disrupt drug supply and prevent drug crime, alongside carrying out preventative, educational and engagement work within communities. In Avon and Somerset there were almost 700 acts of disruption, including 17 arrests for drugrelated offences, 12 warrants in relation to properties and people linked to drug supply, two county lines disrupted, thousands of pounds worth of class A drugs and cannabis seized and 147 visits or safeguarding checks to addresses of vulnerable people. These results are sending a strong message to both criminals and our communities that we are intent on making the South West no place for drugs. The first priority in my police
and crime plan is preventing and fighting crime, and not only does this include important enforcement activity but also education work, to make our communities a safer place. Finally, local businesses can now access Police CyberAlarm, a free tool designed to help organisations understand and monitor the threat they face from malicious cyber activity. Police CyberAlarm, which is government funded, acts like a CCTV camera and monitors the traffic seen by business connections to the internet. The tool will show local businesses how they are being attacked, the source of the attack and will also help law enforcement identify current threats to take action against cyber criminals. Police CyberAlarm can benefit any business with a computer network, including SMEs, not for profit organisations, public
With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford
and private sector, charities, education establishments and local government. More information about this tool is on my website, avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
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W W W.RDAVIESFUNER AL S.CO.UK Pricing is correct at time of print and is subject to change. Price stated is for an Unattended Funeral.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
August, 2022
bishopstonvoice
45 Up to
£1,000 OFF
Did you know Bristol City Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners? *
the cost of works to your home**
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.
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bishopstonvoice
46 CLEANING
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FLOORING
LOGS
LOGS FOR SALE LOGS SALE STILL ONLY £65 per Only dumpy bag bag £90 per dumpy
(the big ones builders get sand in)
LOG BURNER FRIENDLY SIZE LOG BURNER
(the big ones builders get sand in)
(Stock up NOW for Winter) Telephone Chris Allcock Tel: Chris Allcock 07770 754 622 (mob)
FRIENDLY SIZE
Mob: 07770 754 622 01275 373562 01275 (Please use373562 the mobile)
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
GARDENING SERVICES
OVEN CLEANING
D. ATTWELL
LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works
Call Nick on 0117 2872082
Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
0117 303 9000 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Free Quotes Inspection and Testing Landlord Certificates New builds and Extensions Extra Sockets and Lights Fire Alarms, Smoke Detectors
www.ElderwoodElectrical.com Office - 0117 9322379 Mobile - 07725 058581
For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
HANDYMAN
Handy Man Services
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£20.00
• Hang • Repair • Plumb • Assemble • Install • Fix • Replace • Paint Experienced, reliable, friendly Jobs big and small
Contact Gary 07984 614108
+VAT
Per month
E-MAIL:
sales@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
bishopstonvoice
August, 2022 PAINTING & DECORATING
REUPHOLSTERY
Stephen Carter
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
Professional
Painting & Decorating Association Accredited (with PDA guarantee) For a free competitive quotation:
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 PAINTING & DECORATING Interior & façade painting
RUBBISH CLEARANCE Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance
Painter & Decorator
Tiler • Mason • PainterServices Decorating
47
Reupholstery
1/4 Load 1/4 £99 1/4 Load Load £99 £99 Half Half £149 Half Load Load Load £149£149
FREE Collection & Delivery (valued at £80)
3/4 Load 3/4 £199 3/4 Load Load £199£199 Full Load Full £249 Full Load Load £249£249
www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk
SASH WINDOWS
SnugSash.co.uk Sash window specialist
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
• Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting
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
PLUMBING
0117 924 8383 119 Coldharbour Road. BS6 7SD sofa.magic @sofamagic ROOFING
T M HOBBS ROOFING 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
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
PLUMBING
The Bristol Plumber Bathroom & Kitchen Installation
5+ Years Experience, Tiling, Bathroom Fitting, Kitchens, Radiators, All Small Jobs
We can fit double glazing to your sash windows! www.snugsash.co.uk 07736 229727 SnugSash
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
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS From as little as
£20.00 +VAT
No VAT, Free no obligation quote
07540607626
ed@thebristolplumber.com facebook.com/thebristolplumber
Per month
E-MAIL:
sales@bishopstonvoice.co.uk
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk.
SAY HELLO TO SUMMER at Longleat BOOK TODAY longleat.co.uk astonishing adventures are waiting