Bishopston Voice December 2017 by Emma Cooper

bishopstonvoice December, 2017 Issue 61

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Libraries: Let's look at some new ideas LOUD cheers were heard at a packed meeting in the Council Chamber at City Hall in November to discuss the options to save Bristol’s libraries. A motion, developed by the cross-party scrutiny committee, to reconsider proposals for saving £1.4 million through closures and instead to protect the future of Bristol’s libraries, was passed by just one vote. Cotham councillor and chair of the scrutiny committee, Anthony Negus said: “Sadly the fight to save our libraries is not yet over. Cabinet makes a final decision on December 4 and we shall see then if they are prepared to step back and be flexible with no extra cost or job losses, for the sake of all communities across Bristol.” Deputy Mayor Asher Craig said that no decisions have yet been made but that barring the end of austerity some local libraries will have to adapt. Report: Page 2

Pay up to help keep street leafy Alison Troskie, of Longmead Avenue, is spearheading an appeal to raise £2,600 to replace eight trees in her road. PAGES 8 & 9

Cycle barriers are so welcome

Karen Patchell, Roxanne Moore and Daniella Radice CONCERNED parents and residents, Karen Patchell, Roxanne Moore and Daniella Radice, raised road safety issues about Ashley Down Road and Arthur Milton Street which border Brunel Field Primary School at a meeting in mid-November. A large turnout from the local community shared ideas on improvements and initiatives which could make the daily walk to school safer for all. Full story: Page 4

A survey shows strong support in Bristol for more segregated cycle lanes, with barriers keeping riders apart from other road users. PAGE 5

Business centre opens at St Bon's The former St Bon's social club in Bishopston has been transformed into a 21st century business centre. PAGE 7

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

BRISTOL'S Council Chamber was packed on November 14 with people of all ages and from across the city, all there to ask Mayor Marvin Rees to stop the proposed cuts to Bristol’s library and parks services. Petitions were presented by a number of library groups including the ‘Save Redland Library’ group, who collected 4,269 signatures. “The proposals are drastic, far reaching and the consultation clipped the wings of many possible solutions,” said Merche Clark, representing Save Redland Library. “We need to make sure libraries are maintained to still give everyone the possibility to wonder, learn and imagine.” Jill Kempshall, Love Bristol Libraries and Bristol Needs Libraries petitions, spoke about a flawed public consultation where the highest response was to write “none of the above” in the options to keep designated libraries open. The group believe that the format of this consultation failed to let the public to express their views about the nature, location and funding of the library service for the future. Stoke Bishop councillor John Goulandris raised laughs when he said that the Mayor would go down in history as the “book butcher of Bristol” if he goes ahead with the cuts which would see 17 of the city’s 27 libraries

Protesters urge council to drop planned library cuts

Councillor Anthony Negus wants to see alternative options fully explored before any libraries are closed lose all council funds, including Redland, Clifton and Westburyon-Trym Libraries. An impassioned plea from Cotham Lib Dem councillor Anthony Negus, chair of the cross party community scrutiny group, to his Labour colleagues,

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December, 2017

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recommended the authority implement the plan for at least two years and keep ownership of the buildings before making any decisions on the city’s library provision. His motion was passed by one vote. After the meeting Anthony Negus said: “The scrutiny group that I chaired showed there was a way of reorganising an all-Bristol library service. Despite this solution working successfully in other councils, Bristol’s administration did not grasp this opportunity. We have shown how this can work and how we can keep going during the two year transition period necessary to put the new public organisation in place. “We need to save as many libraries as possible. Once they're gone, we lost them forever. This applies to heavily-used libraries like Redland and to those needing to be more attractive to all age groups to support their interests, and need for information, connectivity and aspiration.

“I’m disappointed that it was necessary for the Labour administration to be defeated on this issue. ' I have worked with many from all parties to drive out this alternative positive way forward and I would have wished that all councillors could have supported this initiative. “Sadly the fight to save our libraries is not yet over. Cabinet makes a final decision on 4 December and we shall see then if they are prepared to step back and be flexible with no extra cost or job losses, for the sake of all communities across Bristol.” Deputy Mayor Asher Craig said: “Barring the end of austerity, some libraries will have to adapt. I have been quite surprised at the extent and range of proposals from councillors and individuals. 'No decisions have yet been made. I have read all of the info that you have sent through and it is being taken into consideration.”

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

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

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,750 copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

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

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Improvements at last to Cromwell Rd exit WORK has been completed to modify changes made a year ago to the North Rd/Cromwell Road junction. Queues of cars, backing up to Gloucester Road at rush hour and along North Road were caused by the installation of a

cycleway separated by a large island, funneling two lines of traffic from the Cromwell Road slip road and North Road into a single lane exit route onto Cromwell Road main road. The road area has now been widened and markings for two

exit lanes added which will allow traffic to flow left and right once more. Ashley Ward councillor, Mike Davies said: “I’m pleased that the modifications to this junction have finally been made, after I sent a steady stream of emails

over the past year trying to chase up when it would happen. “Hopefully, this will allow the pedestrian benefits of the original scheme to be secured while allowing traffic to flow more freely and avoiding the tailbacks that were occurring.”

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Parents share ideas for making roads safer neighbours to join in and were rewarded with a good turnout on the night. Parent of two, Roxanne Moore described two recent incidents that happened to her son: “I was walking to school a few months ago when my children knocked into each other and my son fell in front of a car on Ashley Down Road. Luckily he was ok but it could have been very different. A week later my son fell on a pavement on Arthur Milton Street and a car reversed into him. He’s now saying that he’s scared of cars.” Karen Patchell walks her three children to school and has noticed that there is a real risk with children on scooters leaving the school entrance via the incline on Arthur Milton Street. She is also concerned about the combination of fast traffic on Ashley Down Road and very narrow pavements which have no protection between the pavement and road.

PARENTS and residents concerned about the safety of roads surrounding Brunel Field Primary School held an Open Space Meeting in midNovember to share ideas about improvements needed for all those using the area. The meeting, organised by Karen Patchell, Roxanne Moore and Daniella Radice, appealed to parents and carers of children attending Brunel Field, Sefton Park or Ashley Down Primary, plus local residents and

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Daniella Radice explained that there is a problem of safety in nearby Arthur Milton Street where cars park on pavements, forcing buggies into the road and reducing visibility. Many ideas came out of the meeting including the need for barriers to stop people, especially children who can behave in unpredictable ways, from accidentally stepping into Ashley Down Road. Improved signage was proposed, like that used at Henleaze Primary School, see right. It can be seen easily by drivers indicating that a school is nearby. Double yellow lines on one side of Arthur Milton St and a ban on parking on pavements was suggested. A drop off zone, perhaps in nearby College Rd with a park and stride scheme were some other ideas. Representatives from Living Streets were at the meeting and are going to investigate whether there is a suitable area nearby to set up a

five minute walk zone. Roxanne said: “At the moment I feel really blown away at the reaction. There’s been some great ideas that have come out tonight and I want to put those into action. “I feel really supported that other people feel the same as me and I hope that we can work together. Now that we have more manpower we have more support to put those ideas into action and to make it safer for the children.”

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Big vote for segregated cycle lanes THE UK’s biggest assessment on cycling in cities has found that three out of four people in Bristol (77%) want more protected bike routes built to make cycling safer, even when this could mean less space for other road traffic. Bike Life, a report produced by walking and cycling charity Sustrans and Bristol City Council, reveals that out of 1,100 residents surveyed, over twothirds (71%) say more cycling would make their city a better place to live and work. Overall, residents in Bristol think more space for walking, cycling or buses, as opposed to additional space for cars, is the best way to keep their city moving, improve people’s health and air quality. Currently, a quarter of Bristolians cycle at least five times a week. 65% of those surveyed say they would cycle more if on-road cycle lanes were physically separated from both traffic and pedestrians. Bike Life found that people riding a bike currently take up to 24,515 cars off Bristol’s roads each day, and if these cars were lined up this would equate to a 73 mile tailback – a space of over five Castle Parks. Nick Davies, Space4Cycling Officer at Bristol Cycling Campaign: "Gloucester Road is one of Bristol's busiest cycle routes and numbers of people cycling on it have boomed. Surprisingly, however, it has virtually no safe space for cycling, just a bit of mostly faded paint! "Bike Life 2017 shows 77% of Bristolians want more protected space for cycling even when it can mean less room for other

road traffic. Marvin Rees says he "wants to make cycling an ordinary part of life that everyone can feel safe doing". So come on Bristol City Council we call on you to engage with us and the local community to explore making Gloucester Road a truly inclusive, safe environment for people to travel by bike." Our part of the city, and in particular the Gloucester Road, provides a key cycling route for many commuters into the centre of Bristol, with the number of cyclists doubling at peak

times between 2000 and 2013 according to an annual census that was produced by the Office for National Statistics. Speaking of the Bike Life report, James Cleeton, England Director South for Sustrans said: “Bike Life shows that people in Bristol think cycling is a good thing and are supportive of bold and ambitious plans for cycling. They want dedicated space for people on bicycles even when this means taking space away from cars. “In Bristol, we have a higher

proportion of women who cycle than in the other Bike Life cities (40%), which indicates the growing culture and improved infrastructure to support cycling. However, there is more work to be done. We call on governments at all levels to work together to meet people’s needs by investing in segregated routes that make cycling across our cities attractive, safe and convenient.” For more information and to read the Bike Life report, visit www.sustrans.org.uk/bikelife

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December, 2017

n NEWS AN exciting new partnership has been formed between Bristol Spaceworks and St Bonaventure’s RC Church (St. Bon’s), to run a new business centre in the heart of Bishopston. The site of the business centre was formerly a social club built in 1963 and was a well frequented venue with some very popular bands playing there. The club fell into disrepair in 2015 and was closed, creating a burden for St Bon’s who own the building. Thanks to a forward thinking new Parish Priest, Fr. Tom Smith, and a highly motivated and dedicated group of parishioners, they formulated a new plan that the building would be an asset to the Bishopston community once again and provide a much-needed income for the church. St Bon’s Church and Friary were built in 1900 and are large, impressive buildings with maintenance budgets to match. The closed social club was a drain on precious resources, so Fr. Tom appealed to the parishioners and was able to crowdfund the money needed to convert it into a modern business centre. One of the parishioners, Tony Nelson, runs his own interior design company and project manages large office moves. Tony volunteered significant amounts of time and energy into overseeing the amazing

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New business centre opens in the heart of Bishopston transformation, even laying the carpet tiles himself to reduce costs. Fr. Tom approached Bristol Spaceworks through a mutual contact to manage the business centre and let the fully furnished office spaces. Bristol Spaceworks is a not for profit company established in 1985, which rent office space, warehouses and art studios on flexible agreements with the aim of stimulating employment. Fr. Tom Smith said: ‘This is an exciting project. It is the result of the hard work of many people and the generosity and support of many of our parishioners. The offices are of a high quality and I hope it will become the go to business space for Bishopston.” Matt Johnstone, Bristol Spaceworks’ Chief Executive said: “We have always operated in the heart of diverse communities. The opportunity to work with Fr. Tom and his team at St Bon’s was an exciting new challenge. It fits well with our ethos of working in the community, to provide professionally run workspaces which help people develop and

Father Tom Smith, Councillor Tom Brook and Matt Johnstone, from Bristol Spaceworks

grow their business. “Many of the people who work in our existing workspaces live close by and these entrepreneurs directly boost the local economy by employing extra people and buying from

local suppliers. Fr. Tom, Tony and the rest of parishioners have created a really modern business centre with potential to expand it in the future.”

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December, 2017

n NEWS A GROUP of residents in Bishopston have launched a fundraising drive to cover the cost of replacing the diseased trees in their road. The council have told local people that they have no funding to replace the trees and instead are encouraging community sponsorship. Keen to keep the area as leafy as possible, a group of Longmead Avenue residents have got together and set up a Crowdfunding page to try and raise the money needed to sponsor and replace the trees. Mother of two, Alison Troskie, was walking along Longmead Avenue with her five-year-old daughter, when she spotted a notice on a tree stating that it was going to be cut down. Alison said: “We’ve often played this game where we run down the road and she stops at each tree. My daughter asked me, if the tree isn’t there, how will I know where to stop?” “I thought that’s a good point and we wondered if we could replace it? We were going to meet some other friends from Longmead Avenue and noticed

Crowdfunding for Longmead

Alison Troskie with the tree stump poster that drew her attention that eight trees were to be cut down. It’s the purple plums that

have been most affected disease. We got chatting with other mums

at the pub and thought that we should do something to try and replace them.” To drum up interest the family and their friends have been knocking on doors and leafleting locally to make people aware of the cost of replacement - £295 for each tree - £2,600 in total. Residents have taken advice from local councillors who have helped to increase the initial deadline for planting from December 1st to December 31st. Cllr Eleanor Combley said: “I am delighted that the residents on Longmead Avenue have sprung into action so quickly to raise funds to replace the trees being felled because of age and disease, and am happy to give them any support I can. I’d like to thank the council officers who have been so patient with me quizzing them to reassure myself that the fellings are really necessary, and have also extended the deadline to

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December, 2017

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Avenue trees request replacement trees in this planting season to the last possible day, to give as much time as possible for fundraising.” Alison added: “It’s one of the things that make Bristol so attractive and helps with the pollution. It’s always quite sad when you just see a stump. “We’ve been putting our posters on the tree stumps and we’ve found that people are very responsive. It’s been mostly people on the street giving but we have had some anonymous donations.” Neighbour Jessica Trehar stated: “Part of what makes our area and road so lovely are all the beautiful trees. In addition, as residents living on a road with a view of HMP Bristol, we are really keen to do whatever we can to ensure the environment is as attractive as possible.” More than 20 people have donated so far, from £2 to £50, and the current running total is £717, which is 30% of the amount needed. With over 100 houses on Longmead Avenue, Alison is hopeful that the total is within reach: “We’re on our way to tree number three. Chatting with parents at Bishop Road School we’ve realised that they’ve lost trees on Maple Road and Brynland Avenue. It may be a case that if we meet this deadline, then we may go on and try and help replace trees in other roads,” she said. The link to the JustGiving crowdfunding page is: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/longmead-avenuetrees

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n FROM OUR MP

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

Bills - and why they matter

Thangam Debbonaire column

QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

AS I start writing, on Tuesday 14 November, the Deputy Speaker is deciding which amendments to the EU Withdrawal Bill (also known as the Brexit Bill, a draft law) will be debated and voted on over the first of the eight days of line-by-line scrutiny. Due to the significance of this bill we’re debating it in a ‘Committee of the Whole House’. There are 190 pages of hundreds of amendments and new clauses to consider. Meanwhile, I’m also sitting on a usual size of committee for another bill – ten Tory, seven Labour and two SNP, reflecting proportions of different parties within Parliament. This, the Nuclear Safeguards Bill, also came about because of the UK’s expected departure from the EU, as the government has decided that we’ll leave the European Agency for Nuclear Regulation (Euratom) at that point. Why does all this matter? Why should you be interested? Lots of you contacted me earlier

this year to ask me to vote against triggering the two-year process of leaving the EU. I did so because I believed that the UK is best off within the EU and that we were nowhere near ready to start the process of leaving. The Nuclear Safeguarding Bill confirms those concerns. We’ve questioned expert witnesses, to draw on their expertise and every witness spoke of concerns about us leaving Euratom. Some said it was not necessary. I regret the government’s decision to leave but we all agree that, if we do, we need a new nuclear inspection system. However, some of us are worried there isn’t enough time to set up such a structure, so we attempt to improve the bill by amendments. We’re also concerned that these bills give government huge powers to make legal changes with little Parliamentary scrutiny. Some of you have asked me to sign, or commit to supporting, specific amendments to the EU

Withdrawal Bill. As a whip, I only sign amendments for bills I’m working on, such as the one on nuclear safeguards. However, I can and do support amendments for other bills. Your emails inform my views and actions and I’m working with MPs of all parties to represent you. If you’ve emailed or petitioned me about the EU Withdrawal Bill you’ll receive an email from me at the end of this stage, explaining which amendments got voted on, how I voted and why. I’m finishing this article on 15 November and the EU Withdrawal Bill has moved to debating the transfer of EU rules on environment, on rights of the child, and on employment protection. By the time you read this we’ll have had a further day, with four more before the end of 2017. I’m proud to represent a constituency where people care so much about what happens to the country and its legislative processes.

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Redland councillor at New City Poet sought Bonn climate conference REDLAND councillor Fi Hance attended the annual COP23 climate conference in Bonn in November. As Cabinet member for Energy, she was in Germany to represent Bristol at the Climate event and was asked what action the city is taking on climate change. Cllr. Hance highlighted the reduction in CO2 emissions that has been achieved in Bristol – carbon emissions for the city have shrunk by 31% over the last decade. She also pointed out that the Council has developed the UK’s largest municipal energy investment programme, investing in home energy efficiency measures, district heating and renewable energy. Through Bristol Energy the council has its own energy company to support Green and affordable energy and invest the profits in the City. Bristol is also getting on with creating an electric vehicle charging network and investing in cycling infrastructure, and the number of cyclists in the city has doubled over the last decade. Cllr Hance said: “What I’ve seen and heard today has made me really hopeful as a Green about the urgency and importance that city and global leaders are rightly giving to Climate Change around the world. Only the USA is now outside the Paris deal and this conference so far has shown me that the rest of the world are getting their heads down and getting on with the work ahead, which is fantastic.”

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POETS, spoken word fans and performers in Bristol are invited to apply to become the new City Poet. The winner will be required to compose 10 poems for specific events or projects and will take part in public performances and community engagement activities during Mayor Marvin Rees’ second half of his term in office (May 2018 – May 2020). Some of the events that the current City Poet, Miles Chambers, has performed at include the Mayor’s Annual State of the City Address, the council’s annual meeting and a twinning celebration. Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees said: “Miles’ gift with words has enriched several important events in the city and I’m thankful to him for sharing his distinctive voice with us.” Andrew Kelly, director of Bristol Cultural Development Partnership and Bristol Festival of Ideas, said: “We're delighted

to be supporting the Bristol City Poet for another two years. Poetry has always been strong in Bristol - we're the birthplace of the romantic poetry movement after all - and remains a critical part of the cultural life of the city.” Applicants should be experienced poets living in Bristol who have published work in print and/or online. The application deadline is Friday 1 December. To apply visit http://www.ideasfestival.co.uk/ about/news/

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Gold Stars reward great architecture REDLAND & Cotham Amenities Society’s (RCAS) 45th Annual General Meeting took place on 9 November at Redland Green School. The Society declared this year was a good year with a successful Open Gardens and the May fair. The ever-popular Gold Star Awards which included an extra special Gold Star Award for Roger Mortimer were presented at the meeting and there was special news on a legacy for RCAS. In addition to this several councillors answered questions on topics, such as Houses in Multiple Occupation, Air Quality and the Bus Service. The society very much welcomes new members and is always on the lookout for new ideas from its members. The Society’s 2017 Gold Star Awards The Society’s Gold Star Awards for developments in our area were presented to deserving winners. They have covered a

wide range of projects over the years, from major new buildings to sensitive improvements to existing houses. This year the Gold Star awards include the Whiteladies Cinema and the Redland Parish Halls and two residential projects. Whiteladies Cinema

The return of this prominent building to cinema use after some 15 years of closure is greatly welcomed. The Listed Art Deco structure had been the subject of various proposals for unsuitable uses such as fitness centre. The building had previously been damaged internally by conversion to three screens, and was in poor

condition when Everyman took over. Quentin Alder Architects have fully repaired the structure, including its distinctive tower, and reinstated the elaborate period plasterwork. RCAS do however regret that the large and ugly external corner sign above the entrance has not been replaced by more sensitive signage. Redland Parish Halls The Parish Halls have been a valued amenity for the area since opening in 1994. The need for additional and more flexible space, together with upgrading of the existing services and structure has been imaginatively and skilfully met. The new complex, designed by O’Leary Goss Architects, considerably enhances the appearance of the halls from Redland Green. Kensington Cottage This house, built by Quentin Alder Architects on the site

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December, 2017

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n NEWS developed here they will be to the same standard. Elm Lodge This small and unusually shaped cottage on its corner site on Elm Lane has been subject to much alteration in the past, as the slight variety of natural stone shows. The latest extension, which was refused planning permission by Bristol but allowed on Appeal, is a skilful design by Richard Pedlar Architects that respects the historic structure and materials.

of two lock-up garages, and sandwiched between the road and railway embankment, shows what can be achieved by good design on a very small site. The house has a natural stone elevation to Kensington Rd. No windows were allowed to the railway boundary. The design provides small outdoor living spaces, including a balcony to the open plan first floor. It is hoped that if further garage sites are

An Extra Special Gold Star Award! Roger Mortimer retired from RCAS this year. Roger joined the RCAS Committee 25 years ago and chaired for 3 of those years, having retired from a career in architecture and development. The award was presented to Roger for his contribution to the Redland and Cotham area, through his work on shaping development through the RCAS planning group, his design of the play area and the arboretum at

Cotham hairdresser brings on the bling A TOUCH of dazzle and glitter to celebrate the Christmas festivities is on offer from Cotham Hill hair salon, Jon Hurst Hairdressing. Fresh from the success of the pop-up Braid & Glitter Bar the salon ran at the recent Sweaty Betty Relaunch, the Jon Hurst Hairdressing team are adding this on-trend service to their party hair menu for the festive season. Claire Hurst said: “Everyone knows glitter is massive at festivals but this year the trend is being carried right through to New Year and can been seen in hair and make-up as well as in clothes and accessories. “What’s great about using hair and face glitter is that it can be tailored to suit individual requirements. Whether you want a full-on disco diva look or a subtle sparkle to brighten up an outfit, our creative team

Cotham Gardens, his input in the Gold Star Award process and the leadership of the society through his period of Chairmanship. Roger Mortimer said: ‘With the current withdrawal of many Council services I believe that voluntary action is even more important to help maintain many of the fine qualities of Redland and Cotham. RCAS has made a valuable contribution our fine area, and I hope will continue to attract supportive and active members.” RCAS has received a legacy of

£10,000. The society would like to recognise Rose Jennings and Joan Hill for this very generous gift. Rose and Joan were school teachers at Redland High School and both started on the same day in 1942. Fourth Gold for Cotham Hill in Bloom Cotham Hill in Bloom won a Gold Award for this year’s flowers at the Bristol in Bloom Garden Competition in the category “Shopping Area / Street”. The floral enhancement scheme for Cotham Hill which ran from June to October was promoted by RCAS to help create an even more attractive shopping environment and to reinforce neighbourhood identity. This is the fourth year in a row to win Gold! The colourful planters on the pavements and hanging baskets on premises were sponsored by the mainly independent traders in Cotham Hill. To join RCAS please contact: membership@rcas.org.uk

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can make wishes come true this Christmas!” Hair braids of all kinds are also huge this winter, from Dutch to French to Mermaid, and they all look extra special when combined with a touch of glitter. Jon Hurst Hairdressing offer a great selection of glitter colours - they have something to work with every skin tone and outfit ensuring all their clients can look super-sparkly this Christmas.

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

n NEWS

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

Have your say on the future of our precious parks A LOCAL councillor has responded after Bristol City Council’s consultation plans for parks and green spaces were discussed at a recent public meeting. Following the news that the budget for parks would be cut in February, the council announced in October that it was launching a public consultation to review potential cost saving measures such as reducing park maintenance, grass cutting, planting as well as toilet opening hours. The packed meeting on 14 November covered public statements and debates on the Bristol Parks Forum petition. In addition, a vote to reduce the proposed £2.8million cuts did not pass and so a motion for a rethink has now been put forward. Despite Deputy Mayor for Communities Asher Craig stating that the council would not sell off any parks or green spaces

and it was committed to keeping them free and available to all city residents, there are many concerns among local community groups in regards to the impact that the cuts will have on their beloved green spaces. Photo courtesy of Martin Weitz Speaking about what Andrews and open spaces like the cuts could mean for parks in Cotham Grove is not good. our area, Martin Fodor, Green We're now trying to find out Party Councillor for Redland just how bad the cuts are going Ward said: “This is a vital issue to be as the scale may be a bit for so many people in the area reduced, but is still in the region who love our parks and green of millions of pounds lost, which spaces, but the prognosis for will affect grass cutting, repairs, parks like Redland Green, St

planting and so on. “Once this is clarified we need to sit down with local groups like Redland Green Community Association and Friends of St Andrews Park to explore the options for the coming year, and then the longer term. “We're really lucky we have such active and experienced groups in the area but it's still a big ask to expect more of them. Our neighbourhood is popular because of these places and if they become neglected it won’t be good for any of us in terms of having safe places for children to play, space to relax and walk, and popular spots to meet friends.” The council’s parks and green spaces consultation is open until 29 January 2018. Residents wishing to comment on the future of our local parks can complete the survey by visiting https://bristol.citizenspace.com/ neighbourhoods/parks-andgreen-spaces/

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Gloucester Rd set for seasonal street party WHAT a fun and very busy time for all at Glos Rd Central! As a hub of the North Bristol Art Trail the area is visited by art lovers from across Bristol and beyond. After the trail Room 212, Paper Plane, Fig and Artemis continue to show art, craft and jewellery by local artists for all those looking for lovely original gifts for Christmas. There's even a couple of calendars showing artwork by lots of different Bristol artists. The Gloucester Road Art Banners are now in place and look fantastic up on lampposts all along our favourite high street. Sponsored by North Bristol Artists, Gloucester Road BID traders and Room 212 gallery, the banners celebrate the community, artists and independent traders who live and work here. The project was conceived

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by Sarah Thorp, owner of Room 212. When Sarah opened her gallery four years ago she remembers fellow traders saying that they'd like to see more art on the high street and the idea struck a chord. In 2015 her Gloucester Road neighbour Deborah Weinreb installed banners for the Flagged Up project for European Green Capital and Sarah asked her to help coordinate the Gloucester Road Art Banners project. Artwork was contributed by open submission from Bristol artists and community groups and then selected by the public and traders. You can learn more about the project and even buy a print of some of the artwork here http://www.room212.co.uk/ gloucester-road-banners Saturday 2nd December is Small Business Saturday and some traders are joining in

with great offers on the day. Millards are offering free lights and a chain with any bike, Room 212 are selling their calendars of Bristol artists for just £8, Artemis have 10% Christmas decorations and Catch the Moment are offering a free mini photo shoot. Check out the Glos Rd Central facebook page for more offers nearer the day. Room 212 and Artemis will be setting up stalls with traders from the Gloucester Road BID at the Christmas Market, taking place at Nailsea Electrical from 12.30 - 4pm, so you can pick up some bargains there too. For the 4th year running traders are hosting a Christmas Street Party to launch Thursday late openings during December. The event takes place out on the pavements in the section from Giles Butchers to the Golden Lion. Starting at 5pm, most of the independent shops and businesses will stay open until 8pm. This means you can have a browse while catching up with friends and getting into the festive spirit. As usual Joe's Bakery will be offering delicious tasters of their Christmas fayre, The Italian Sausage company will be outside Millards and there will be other food and treats on offer too. Mr Gotalot can't be with us this year but the Bristol Improv Theatre will be performing some skits from their upcoming Pantomime from 5.30 6.30. After that there is

live music to enjoy and singing from Bishop Road Community and Glos Vox Choirs. Sarah Thorp said: “We'd like to remind our customers that many traders will be open late on Thursdays and all day on Sundays - including Christmas Eve. Many shops will also open between Boxing Day and New Year. We're looking forward to seeing you all and thank you for helping us by Shopping Local this Christmas.”

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n NEWS THIS festive season Bristol’s Independent District (managed by GRBID) is bringing you a Festive Bonanza to make Small Business Saturday on December 2 a very special day. More than 30 traders on Gloucester Road, Zetland Road and Cheltenham Road are offering sales, giveaways, discounts, raffles and more. It’s an opportunity to visit your local shops and stock up

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

Festive bonanza on Christmas items for all the family. There will be a Cozy Christmas Market by the Xmas Tavern at 102 Gloucester Road (by Nailsea Electrical) from noon-4.30pm with stalls selling gifts, hot food and waffles. Local business including 7th Sea, Flo Jo Fabrics , Joe’s Bakery, The Parlour and more businesses will be on hand to welcome shoppers. Christmas carol singers will be performing bringing a wealth of Christmas cheer. Local choirs Glos Vox and Folk House Choir

are joining together for the day to sing carols at 1pm and again at 4pm at the Cosy Christmas Market by the Xmas tavern at Nailsea Electrical. Drop by the Gallimaufry Terrace between 5.30-7.30pm for Wreath Making. Sarah Jayne Gardens will be on hand to inspire and help you make a beautiful festive wreath that you can then take home. All materials are supplied, £5. Follow on Facebook @ BristolsIndieDistrict to keep up to date with all the offers on this

very special day celebrating our local independent shops.

From the 1st December children will be able to post their letters to the North Pole

in various places in the Gloucester Road area. The special post boxes can be found in Playfull, Bishopston Library, 7th Sea, Totally Toys, Iota, The Parlour and the post office (opposite Scoopaway). Two letters will be drawn from each box on December 23 and the creator of those letters will receive a little something special. So don’t forget to put your contact details on your envelope!

Christmas Puppies and Kittens trail Letters to Santa in Bristol’s Indie District A KIDS trail to find the Christmas Puppies and Kittens takes place from 18 – 23 December. Forms can be collected from the Bishopston Library, Playfull or Totally Toys, and children then find the 12 matching photos of puppies and kittens around the District. When complete take the forms to the Co-op at 117 Gloucester Road and collect a prize.

GLOUCESTER Road Business Improvement District (GRBID) held their AGM in October. A Business Improvement District (BID) is an elected business-led initiative where businesses and organisations, within a defined geographical area work collaboratively to raise funds collectively. This financial resource is used for local initiatives with the aim of improving the trading scene. The current GRBID was elected for a term of five years in 2014. A newly installed Art Banner

SEVEN local primary schools have lent their artistic skills and decorated a post box to the North Pole. Children from Sefton Park, St Bonaventures, Dolphin School, Brunel Field, Ashley Down, Glenfrome and Fairlawn primary schools have taken part in the project initiated by Bristol's Independent District, Managed by Gloucester Road Business Improvement District.

www.bristolsindependentdistrict.co.uk

Gloucester Road BID AGM Bristol’s Independent District was created by the GRBID to make the area identifiable to all the community, and to invite a wider audience such as tourism, to discover and explore this area. The defined area of the Bristol Independent District is from Cox and Baloney on Cheltenham Road up to The Co operative on Pigsty Hill. The BID is made up of about 250 businesses on Gloucester Road, Cheltenham Road, Zetland Road, Cranbrook Road, Overton Road and Denmark Place. The GRBID is led by a board with new BID Manager, Anne-Louise Perez, who was appointed in June this year. From November 2016 - October 2017 the GRBID has achieved many business initiatives. Spring saw a Bunny Treasure Hunt and a

thorough clean up of the BID area streets and pavements with the help of BCR Street Scene, and with GRBID funding this is ongoing. Summer 2017 saw new branding designed for Bristol’s Independent District, a new Facebook page @ BristolsIndieDistrict plus a video of local traders showcasing the friendly and independent spirit of the area https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=TrlK3y1vcyU which premiered at the Dinema experience. A grant application was approved from Travelwest for additional cycle parking and the overnight ribbon installations on trees and posts in the BID area to celebrate Pride Bristol made headline news. Autumn brought a six month free trial of an Electric Bike for the GRBID team and the promotion of E Bike Scheme to GRBID members. Co-working space, Raw Space opened with

a discount available to BID members. The GRBID were able to offer a free Traders Social Media workshop and Bristol Waste agreed preferred supplier discounted rates to BID members. The much-anticipated Art Banners were installed in November, of which 13 were funded by GRBID running from Pigsty Hill to Cox and Baloney. A newly designed illustrated free map of the area is due for imminent distribution. 2017 Christmas lights funded by GRBID were switched on 10 November. Many initiatives are planned for December, including a Festive Bonanza and Cozy Christmas Market, plus much, much more detailed in the article above. The GRBID are delighted to be sponsoring locally founded Bishopston Window Wanderland 2018 which takes place in February.

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

December, 2017

n NEWS By Keri Beckingham READERS of the Bishopston Voice are being asked to support North Bristol Foodbank’s Christmas appeal, after it was announced that 1,898 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis between 1 April and 30 September 2017, compared to 1,735 the same period in the previous year. The foodbank, a member of The Trussell Trust’s network, believes the local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments, low wages, insecure work and people having difficulties with debt. In the months leading up to Christmas, The Trussell Trust’s foodbank network traditionally sees a spike in foodbank use due to factors such as cold weather, high energy bills, and referral agencies ensuring that people who are likely to hit crisis have food ahead of Christmas Day. As a result North Bristol Foodbank, whose office is based at Ebenezer Church in Horfield, is asking the community to help them prepare

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Residents urged to support North Bristol Foodbank’s Christmas appeal for their busiest time of year by donating urgently needed food items at one of its supermarket collection points across the area. Speaking of the support that North Bristol Foodbank needs at this time of year, Jon Dobson, Foodbank Manager said: “It’s really worrying that we are still seeing an increase in the need for emergency food across North Bristol. We currently are in particular need of some items that we might be able to pass on to people at Christmas time who might struggle to afford anything special, such as selection boxes, Christmas puddings or sponge puddings, boxes of chocolates, biscuits, and so on. We are also in need of general nonperishable items to cope with what could be a busier season as the weather gets colder and heating costs can stretch people's budgets.

“We heard that from last year's Christmas appeal, one individual was really worried about going to see their family on Christmas Day and having nothing to bring along to contribute or to give as a gift. But in a package that they received from the foodbank there was a box of chocolates that their support worker encouraged them to take along. The support worker told us that simple box

of chocolates really helped them get across the door to see their family, and it made a massive difference to how they spent last Christmas.” To find the location of your nearest North Bristol Foodbank food collection point and make a donation to their Christmas appeal, visit their website: https://northbristol.foodbank. org.uk/give-help/donate-food/

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

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December, 2017

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n EDUCATION COLSTON’S Girls’ School in Bristol is set to expand its sixth form from September 2018 and for the first time in over 100 years, it will be co-educational. Venturers Sixth will open alongside the state girls’ school in Cheltenham Road. It will welcome ambitious 16 to 18-year-olds and aims to have a focus on science, technology, engineering, the arts and maths (STEAM) as well as on developing skills for the workplace. Like CGS, it will be part of Venturers Trust, which is sponsored by the Society of Merchant Venturers and the University of Bristol. Sixth-form girls and boys will have a dedicated base in the Georgian building next to CGS, although they will also have access to the specialist science, music and other facilities in the main school. The post-16 students will continue to play important leadership roles in the school. Principal John Whitehead said the time was right to give teenage boys the same opportunities that are open to CGS girls. “Our sixth form is a unique provision, combining high standards, specialist teaching and individual support. Our students follow a range of high quality pathways to future success. The school has a strong emphasis on community action and our students have developed and delivered a number of impressive projects in recent years. “CGS is an inner-city school

CGS to open co-ed sixth form

with students from across the city and beyond. We pride ourselves on our ethnic and social diversity - now we will have a gender mix too.” Mr Whitehead said that while research showed that girls aged 11-16 perform more strongly in single-sex schools, mixed sixth forms were the most successful. He said: “We already have a good proportion of students moving on to Russell Group universities and by expanding our numbers we will be able to increase the availability of quality alternative routes,

Head girl Zainab Adelopo, vice principal and head of sixth form Kerry McCullagh, with head girl team members Olivia Wright and Charanjeet Kaur

including high-level engineering apprenticeships.” The governors and sponsors of the school, which was founded in 1891 and became a statefunded academy in 2008, have been considering the future direction for the sixth form for some years. In creating this exciting initiative, CGS will build on and develop the relationships formed during that journey to ensure that collaboration offers the greatest range of opportunities. “We have talked extensively with students and with the wider school community, and they welcome this move,” said Mr Whitehead. "It will offer greater opportunities for social interaction, helping all students to prepare for life beyond school, whether at university, volunteering or in the workplace.” Members of the CGS head girl team said the change would prepare them for studying alongside boys at university as well as for later life. Olivia Wright, who hopes to do a maths degree, said: “Sixth form is a perfect time to change the learning environment. Boys will bring in different opinions and ideas.” Yasmin Rees-Khan, who hopes to study medicine at university, added: “It will be interesting to get a male perspective in lessons.”

Head girl Zainab Adelopo said having boys in the sixth form would make the school even more diverse, and everyone’s views would be treated with respect. Kerry McCullagh, vice principal and head of sixth form, said: “The boys who choose to join us will share our values, ambition and work ethic. We are proud that already our students go on to a wide range of destinations, and progress to careers that in the past have been dominated by men. “Our new sixth form will be a unique provision with its own identity but also at the heart of the school.” Venturers Sixth will continue to be selective, offering A-level courses in academic subjects, including modern foreign languages, which is the CGS specialism. When numbers increase, appropriate and challenging Level 3 vocational courses will be added to the curriculum. Anthony Brown, Chair of Governors for Colston’s Girls’ School, said: “We believe this development will be a strong addition to the post-16 provision in Bristol. Young people will have the opportunity to belong to a sixth form that has a proven track record as well as a strategic forward-looking vision, based in a vibrant, diverse inner-city location.”

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n EDUCATION

Cli on High School co-educa onal nursery school to sixth form

Year 7 Entrance Examinations: Saturday 13th and 20th January 2018

Local school supports international charity WESTBURY based girls’ school, Redmaids’ High, is supporting an international charity with a very personal connection. Concern Worldwide, provide food and education to help poverty stricken communities across the world, including in the African nation of Burundi; home country to the school’s Head Girl. Anjali Mehta, moved from Burundi to Bristol in 2014 with her parents and sister Khushi when she was 15 years old. Khushi and her cousin Niki also attend the school, and another cousin, Neha, left last year to study Dentistry at Birmingham. Burundi is one of the world’s poorest nations. The country has suffered vast amounts of political instability, a civil war, military coups and genocide resulting in the loss of approximately 300,000 lives. Although a peace agreement was reached in 2006 the country remains in a fragile state of political unrest and since then hundreds more people have been killed. Last year, the school that Anjali and her sister had attended in Burundi was shut down for three months because of how unsafe it had become. “We are very fortunate to have moved to Bristol to continue our education at Redmaids’ High. Our friends in Burundi have started moving to neighbouring countries to find a safe place to stay,” says Anjali.

“When we went back last summer to visit our family, a lot had changed. So many people are living in poverty and over half the children under the age of five are severely malnourished.” After speaking to Anjali about the situation in Burundi, the Head Almoners at Redmaids’ High, Arabella and Yasmin, decided to support the charity Concern Worldwide. They help by building kitchen gardens in the poorest communities across the world enabling people to grow their own fruit and vegetables. Nearly 1000 families across Burundi have benefitted from these gardens, each costing just £75 to build. So far Redmaids’ High has raised around £500 to send to Concern Worldwide. That means that a further six communities will be provided with new gardens as well as training in agriculture and nutrition. “As Head Girl of Redmaids’ High, I’m so proud of my friends and fellow students for helping the communities in my home country,” said Anjali. “Thank you to everyone who donated.” You can make a donation to Concern Worldwide by visiting their website www.concern.net Any donations to the charity made before Monday 18 December will be doubled by the UK government.

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

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December, 2017

n EDUCATION

Cotham School takes part in council’s community art project MAYOR of Bristol Marvin Rees has unveiled six pieces of art that have been loaned to the council to be displayed at City Hall, one of which was produced by artist Jasmin Nowak Fearon in conjunction with Cotham School. The works have come from across the city and have been created by local artists and members of the community. Each piece will be hung and displayed in different locations throughout City Hall that are accessible to the public, and these spaces are being managed by registered community art charity, Artspace Lifespace. The announcement is the latest move to bring art into the building with the side vestibules having been opened up for local community and cultural groups

to display their work earlier this year. Speaking of the art project, Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees said: “This project is about ensuring that City Hall as a public building really represents the communities it works for. By giving people space inside the building to display their creativity I hope that people will be able to feel greater ownership of the building and remind us of the many communities that make up our city. “I’d like to thank everyone who has come forward to donate their work so far. This is just the first stage of this project and I hope eventually to be able to have every ward in the city represented by a piece of artwork.”

Life changing Our entrance examinations and assessments for entry in September 2018 are taking place in January. Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885. To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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December, 2017

n NEWS

From Southmead Hospital to Afghanistan INTENSIVE Care Unit senior nurse at North Bristol NHS Trust, Flora Robertson from Bishopston, is a reservist in the Armed Forces. Flora signed up to be an Armed Forces reservist in 2008, when she was a newly qualified nurse. She had been part of the cadets when she was young, and joined the Officers' Training Corps in University. When Flora heard about the opportunity to become an Armed Forces reservist, she jumped at the chance. Flora explained: “I thought it would be a good option, allowing me to work in the NHS but also in different environments. I like the outdoors, taking part in adventure training, travelling and meeting people with similar interests. I was also interested in the deployment opportunity, as this was the time of the Afghanistan war.” Flora is part of 243 Field Hospital, based in Keynsham. As a sergeant, Flora runs the

Intensive Care Unit and oversees soldiers. In 2012, Flora had her first deployment to Afghanistan. North Bristol NHS Trust supported this and Flora was able to take military leave, working in Afghanistan for over three months. Flora said: “Being deployed is a rewarding experience. You are really making a difference and it’s nice to be appreciated by the general public. North Bristol NHS Trust was really supportive and allowed reserves to take time off to attend Remembrance Day.” Flora is encouraging other medical staff to consider the Armed Forces Reserves: “If you’re prepared to dedicate the time and effort, I would recommend joining. You get so many rewards out of it, such as friendship and different ways of keeping fit.” As an Armed Forces reservist, you have to meet a basic requirement of at least one weekend every two months.

CHANNEL 4 is making a festive return to the Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds this Christmas. The one-hour special features a trip back to St Monica Trust’s Cote Lane retirement community on Durdham Downs and reunites the residents including Hamish, Zina, Pat and David , with some of their young friends from Bristol nurseries, including The Southville Centre, among them Solomon, Nelson, Millie and Eva. The aim is to find out how taking part in the series has impacted their lives. Social isolation is one of the biggest problems for the elderly and never more so than during the Christmas period. Loneliness can impact hugely on our health with a recent report saying it can be as damaging to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. The two-part series which aired in August was inspired by a revolutionary American scheme which brought together a group of older people and a group of four year olds for a six week period to attempt to prove scientifically that these two generations can transform the physical, social and emotional wellbeing of the old volunteers for the better.

'Telebuddies' Christmas special!

The Christmas Special looks at what has happened since the experiment ended. Are the older group still showing signs of progress? Did the friendships with the children and their families develop further? In this festive special the older adults and children prepare for a festive Carol Service with their families as the guests of honour – and Santa Claus and his reindeers may also make a

Every five years is a potential deployment year. North Bristol NHS Trust is supportive of staff who need to take time off for deployment and is formally

cameo appearance. The three geriatric specialists – Professor Malcolm Johnson, Dr Zoe Wyrko and Dr Melrose Stewart – all return to give their insight into the continued progress of the older group as well as focussing on loneliness and its impact on the elderly paying particular attention to why Christmas is such a tough time for older people. Chief Executive of St Monica

partnered with both the Army and Royal Air Force Reserve Forces. Find out more at http://www. army.mod.uk/

Trust, David Williams said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to welcome CPL and the children back to the Trust to film the Christmas Special. The Trust has worked in partnership with Age UK on a number of community initiatives in Bristol and we’re excited to be helping them spearhead this national campaign to highlight social isolation among the older population.”

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

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December, 2017

n NEWS

Actress Theresa finds new role in Horrible Histories LOCAL actress Theresa Roche is featuring in two horror movies released this December. Cast as an entrepreneurial lady who buys a 13th century house in Gothic horror The House of Screaming Death, it’s a grim tale where Theresa’s character is murdered by demons. Starring Ian McNeice as The Architect, the film is a very special horror anthology that celebrates the best of British horror films. Theresa plays a pagan cult leader’s wife in Bruce McClure’s latest film, District Nurse, which premiers in London on December 9. The film is about an evil pagan cult and elements of 1970s horror movie The Wicker Man. Some of the film was shot in Bristol as Theresa explains: “It was a very professional shoot with lots of very artistic shots. The interior of the Stag and Hounds in Old Market Street was used plus standing stones in the Westcountry.” Theresa grew up in the Bristol area and settled in Bishopston after University. She’s worked on Casualty, acted in short films and was cast in a dancing role in The Other Boleyn Girl. As well as acting she’s directed a film about The Red Lodge on Park Row and written two plays. She said: “I really like the

community here. It’s eclectic and very friendly - people stop and chat with you on the Gloucester Road.” Although Theresa’s been cast in horror films of late, including one as a demonic, porcelain doll who kills people in web series Gabriel Cushing at the Carnival of Sorrows, she also acts in Murder Mysteries, at comedy dining events and plays a costumed Jane Austen character around the city of Bath. The Jane Austen role led to a treasured cartoon of herself, drawn by none other than Horrible Histories illustrator, Martin Brown. Theresa said: “I was asked if I could be drawn live in front of an audience of children. Martin Brown was amazing and drew me in less than two minutes!” Theresa trained as a dancer with former Bluebell girl and Moulin Rouge dancer, Gloria Sheaves MBE, who used to run a dance school in Bishopston. Gloria’s passion for dancing was so strong that she coached promising young dancers, including Theresa and her Ballroom and Latin dance partner, Philip Sherwood. "I still dance with Philip. I’ve never learned quite as much as I did from Gloria - she gave me a real feel for dance and expressing emotion,” she added.

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Five years at the top for Bishopston Fish Bar

GLOUCESTER Road fish and chip shop, Bishopston Fish Bar, has been listed as one of the UK’s 20 best fish and chip shops for the fifth year running. Proud owner, Nick Lomvardos, was delighted to be selected yet again as part of the 30th anniversary National Fish & Chip Awards organised by Seafish, aptly known as the ‘Oscars’ of the fish and chip industry. “We are officially the best fish and chip shop in Bristol. There has been great teamwork from my amazing staff who have all helped to achieve this award. “I want to dedicate this year’s win to my father who we lost in May. This one was for him. “I’m not going to let anyone catch us up let alone beat us!” Representing the best in Avon, Wiltshire and Dorset, Nick and his team will now compete for their place in the national final and a chance to claim the ultimate honour of being crowned the best fish and chip shop in Cut & Boned Day (Cod & Haddock) theEvery UK. Marcus Coleman, Chief Executive at Seafish, said: “Our Fish and Chip Shop of the Year r Spuds Peeled & Chipped Every Day Award is one of the highest accolades in the fish and chip industry. “Since the awards launched 30 years ago, our judging criteria has evolved and adapted eshly Made Batter Every Day to mirror the development of our industry. Not only are the shops judged on the product itself, but they are also assessed across every aspect of running a successful businessAWARD as WINNING TRADITIONAL FISH & CHIPS how they areEvery responding to wider industry issues including ble Cookingwell OilasChanged Week responsible and sustainable sourcing of raw ingredients.” www.bishopstonfishbar.co.uk

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

TV star Tony Robinson reveals a surprising history of Bristol in a unique film Sir Tony Robinson’s

Sir Tony Robinson’s

Walk on history with Sir Tony Robinson as he shows you around the extraordinary city of Bristol.

Join Sir Tony on board The SS Great Britain, on the summit of The Cabot Tower, inside St Mary Redcliffe Church (so beloved by Baldrick’s friend, Queenie), deep underground in The Redcliffe Caves, at The Hotwells Spa, inside The Clifton Rocks Railway, on Brunel’s Great Suspension Bridge and at sea on The Matthew. Let Sir Tony help you discover the most shocking, curious and surprising facts about The Bristol Docks, the secret tunnels and rivers under the city, the origin of Robinson Crusoe & Treasure Island, the sinful public houses, the sad story of Scipio Africanus & the shameful Slave Trade, Sir Samuel Plimsoll, Bristol’s great Paddle Steamers and much more. Produced with love and affection by Bristol’s award-winning Bafta-nominated documentary makers Focus Productions www.focusproductions.co.uk

Producers: Jeremy Stratton and Martin Weitz With grateful thanks to Evolutions Bristol.

famed o t ry of Bristol His

l Specia 20th rsary Annive on iti Ed

The star of TV’s Blackadder and Time Team takes you on a very personal tour of his favourite city, uncovering the hidden secrets of Bristol’s extraordinary history

Format PAL • Length 42 minutes • Aspect Ratio 4:3 • Language English © Focus Productions Bristol UK

Sir Tony Robinson’s famed History of Bristol

famed tory of Bristol s i H

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THE star of TV’s Blackadder and Time Team, Sir Tony Robinson, reveals many of Bristol’s hidden historical secrets in a new DVD released this week. Director of the film, St Andrew's resident Martin Weitz, says it is an extraordinary record of Bristol’s amazing history, capturing rare images of the city which simply could not be filmed nowadays; including access to the secret tunnels and rivers under the city centre and a scene shot inside the pump room of the 18th century Hotwells Spa. The film captures Tony’s passion for history combined with his great sense of humour - for example when he goes on board the ss Great Britain, he gives a highly entertaining recitation of an historic poem about a roly-poly pudding in pure Blackadder style.

There’s a literally breathtaking ascent to the top of the Cabot Tower and an eyeopening visit to St Mary Redcliffe Church where he meets up with his alter ego, Baldrick’s “old friend Queenie”. The film also recaptures the highly moving occasion when The Matthew, the Bristol-built replica of John Cabot’s tiny ship that discovered Newfoundland, sails down the River Avon, out into the open sea for the very first time. In this revealing investigation of Bristol’s history, Tony Robinson also delves into the Slave Trade when he visits Henbury Churchyard, in search of the grave of Scipio Africanus, a young slave brought to the city. This unique film is also crammed full of entertaining nuggets of history, including

the story of the great paddle steamers, which took Victorians from Bristol to Clevedon on “grand days out”. Recently re-discovered by the award-winning, Bristol documentary company, Focus Productions, this film has been beautifully restored by editors and technicians at one of the city’s top TV post-production houses, Evolutions Bristol. “Sir Tony Robinson’s famed History of Bristol “ is available from Waterstones, The Galleries, Bristol and selected retailers for £9.99. It can also be ordered online from Amazon.co.uk

and Focus Productions’ own website,www.focusproductions. co.uk

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

Artists stage their first exhibition HAVING met at Art school, Bishopston based ‘emerging artists’ Sally Coulden and Jane Speedy have taken the leap into their new careers as professional artists. Jane and Sally have both embraced change and new

challenges throughout their working lives, which for both of them has been about grasping life’s opportunities as they arise. Their careers cover everything from teaching, midwifery, published writer, sexologist and working globally for major corporates. Really excited at the new challenges that they face, Jane and Sally are immersing themselves into the world of art and the challenges this brings by holding their first exhibition, Emergence. Jane’s work is influenced by the landscapes she inhabits and the layers of human stories and meanings that lie just beneath the surfaces of those landscapes: in her case in Bristol and West Wales. Sally’s work is instinctively abstract, her aim, to remove complexity, detail and feelings of

containment to create a sense of visual space and freedom. Come and meet the artists at Centrespace Gallery, 6 Leonards Lane, Bristol, BS1 1EA. Opening night is Friday 15 December, 5pm-9pm. The exhibition is open on Saturday 16 - Sunday 17 December, from 11am - 6pm daily. For more see websites: sallycoulden.art and janespeedyart.com

RECRUITING NOW IN REDLAND AND EASTVILLE If you are motivated, enthusiastic and compassionate then this could be the perfect role for you – You could be supporting people with learning disabilities to achieve their dreams and goals as one of our valued Support Workers. Whether you are working with people at home, getting out in the community, visiting our day centre or supporting people with cooking and life skills, you could be making a difference to someone’s life. Whilst we always value applications from experienced candidates, no previous experience is required as we think that life experience and personal values are more important. If you are successful, we will provide you with a comprehensive induction and training package, and DBS check to make sure you are ready to provide the best support you can.

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

New BCR Community Partnership invites members BISHOPSTON, Cotham and Redland Community Partnership (BCR CP) is inviting local community groups to become founder members of the Community Partnership. Founder members will sign up to the aims of the Community Partnership and will be integral to bringing forward the purpose of the CP. This is an open invitation to any individuals and groups who would like to be part of the new organisation; you are invited to have a look at our new website and how you can join at bcrcp. org.uk/join The BCR CP has been set up to carry on the best practice of the former Bishopston, Cotham and Redland Neighbourhood Partnership following the withdrawal of funding and officer support for the Neighbourhood Partnerships in Bristol. The BCR CP area will cover the neighbourhoods within and around the wards of Bishopston and Ashley Down, Cotham and Redland. LOCAL people in Bishopston, Cotham, Redland and St Andrews are invited to join in the consultation on the corporate plan and the 18/19 budget proposals, now on the council website www.bristol-citycouncil/corporate-strategy-andbudget-consultation/ Included in this is a saving proposal of £257K, which is what could be available to spend on

BCR CP aims to: • Encourage and promote community spirit and cohesion, and the involvement of local people in community affairs; • Seek to safeguard and improve the social, physical and cultural character of our area;help people in our area to have a greater influence on decisions affecting their lives; • Support local community groups, institutions and businesses to contribute

Have your say small grants and community projects. These grants would have been available for local councillors and members of the community to allocate jointly to local projects – for example, to fund sports equipment or community events.

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positively to the quality of life in our area. The steering group has been meeting since April 2017 to draw up the Constitution and Aims of the proposed BCR CP organisation (see website) and is planning a first Annual General Meeting in early 2018 where the first full committee and officers will be chosen and the constitution proposed for adoption. Find us on Facebook @BCR. Community

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However, this proposal is now being reviewed in the context of the need for further savings. The consultation is open until 17 December and invites all local citizens to take part and make their views known.

Prostate cancer support group PROSPECT is a support group for Bristol and district prostate cancer patients, partners and carers. The next meeting will be at BAWA, Filton BS34 7RF, on January 15 at 7pm, with a speaker. Coffee mornings are held at the Macmillan Centre, Southmead Hospital, on the first Thursday of each month (10amnoon), to help new patients. The group’s webmaster, Bernard Smyth, has been a member for five years. He said: “I have found it a great help. Meeting other patients and swapping stories helps to lighten the load of dealing with this condition. Every member’s story is different but all agree that Prospect is very useful.” Website: /www. prostatecancerbristol.org.uk and the Tackle helpline, 0800 035 5302, will put callers in touch with Prospect.

News? Give Sue a call on 07976 706120

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Early birds flock to Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm FOR a couple of months now, hundreds of Christmas Trees have been awaiting harvest at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm. Peter and Simon Maughan, the proprietors of the farm, are encouraging eager customers to reserve their trees instead of cutting too soon. Early birds are visiting in increasing numbers to “Choose and Cut” their own Christmas Tree before the big rush in December. “The benefit of reserving a tree in November means that you don’t have to cut it too early, which results in an inferior tree on the big day,” say Simon. “You can come back a bit closer to Christmas and cut it then. We only cut when the customer is ready, and this is what makes our trees special. It’s how we can guarantee that our trees stay fresh and beautiful until January.”

Here are Simon’s top tips for reserving a Christmas Tree: H Bring lots of things to tie to the tree to make it uniquely yours. Ribbons and cable ties are ideal. H Make a name sign to fix securely to the tree so you can find it again when you come back. H Check that the tree has a straight trunk, so it is easy to stand upright when you get it home. H Measure the space at home before you visit, so you can be sure the tree will fit.

Trees always seem a lot bigger when you get them indoors.

Already this year our trees have been hand-picked for McDonald’s Christmas TV campaign (filmed in various locations in Bristol) and for the concourse at Temple Meads Station. One Norwegian Spruce will appear on BBC’s Victorian Christmas, and two Serbian Spruces on Philip Schofield’s How to Spend It Well At Christmas. Frenchay trees also made a recent appearance at the Winterbourne Musical Theatre’s production of The Christmas Schooner. “I always get asked which are the best trees, which are the longest lasting. It’s really hard to answer, because so much depends on personal taste, and so much on how well it will be looked after in the home. I always send early customers in the direction of the ‘non-drop’ firs, such as the Nordmann and

the Fraser. Later customers will be safe with any tree, but I always recommend the traditional spruces, because these are the trees I really love.” Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm is open until Christmas Eve, 9am-5pm every day. “Choose and Cut” runs just as long as stocks last. Prices start from £20. www.frenchaychristmastreefarm.co.uk

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n BISHOPSTON MUM

DAYCARE

months, the group also has some nice outside space overlooking the bowling green. There are also lots of volunteers at Ardagh Toddlers, always ready to chat and lend a helping hand with the kids so you can enjoy your cuppa! I was sad to find out this month that a total of eight trees on Longmead Avenue in Bishopston have been felled by the council due to disease. Due to a lack of funding the council are unable to replace the trees with new ones; sad news as Longmead Avenue is known for its trees and looks particularly lovely in Spring. Thank goodness for the great community spirit that exists in Bishopston, however!

Several residents on the street have grouped together to set up a Just Giving page to raise money to replace the trees and are involving everyone else on the street and the rest of the community to help. If you can spare even £5 towards the campaign, please do so! Here's the link: https://www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/longmead-avenuetrees. If you fancy a Winter walk in the countryside this December I recommend a trip to Old Sodbury, a little village in South Gloucestershire. It offers a great walk from The Dog Inn and you can find plenty of green space to roam, fresh air and spectacular views! But don't forget your wellies, it's a muddy one! I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to catching up with you again in 2018!

Bishopston Mum www.bishopstonmum.com www.bristolmum.com

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Ardagh Toddlers, a group for 0-4s held every Monday 10 – 11.30am in term-time at the Ardagh Pavilion on Horfield Common. I used to take my children here and I can tell you that it is just as friendly and relaxed as ever. There is no waiting list there, just drop-in one Monday with your children. It is very relaxed and unstructured; there is no singing, stories or structured group activities (apart from the teas, coffees, and drinks and plentiful biscuits for the children!), just lots of great toys and activities including painting, Mega Blocks, a Wendy house, a little ball pool, dressing up costumes and much, much more. In warmer, sunnier

I CAN hardly believe that I am writing my column for December's issue of Bishopston Voice and that 2017 is coming to a close. I don't know about you but since having children time not only seems to be flying by but seems to have actually picked up pace over the last couple of years. Maybe it's because of being so busy with work, life and having such a full week packed to the brim with children's activities or maybe it's because time is now measured by school term times. As I write this it is nearly my daughter's 7th birthday and she is counting down the days. I also worked out recently that I have been writing my Bishopston Mum column for Bishopston Voice for nearly 5 years! Every month a new issue comes out I have always saved each one but a couple of weeks ago I had to declutter because my dining room was becoming overrun with copies. But I love writing my column every month and hope to continue doing so for many more years! A few weeks ago I relived the toddler years when I popped into

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ES M HO PEN OWW O H S NO

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An inspiring new

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for Stoke Gifford

Opening in late 2018, Stoke Gifford Retirement Village will give people over 55 an opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle, in a home of their own, as part of a vibrant, supportive neighbourhood community. Located to the east of Coldharbour Lane in Stoke Gifford, near to the University of the West of England campus, the village will have 261 comfortable new homes all boasting the latest safety and security features. Here the focus will be on staying as active and independent as possible in the company of like-minded friends and neighbours thanks to a host of outstanding social and leisure facilities and activities. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust aims to ensure that opportunities to live at the village are affordable to all, and are offering these superb, state-of-theart retirement apartments for purchase, shared ownership or rent.

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS In Bishopston this month... Street Lighting We’ve had a lot of contact recently with residents promoting the conversion of Bristol’s streets to Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Replacing the street lights with LEDs would help to save the council money, and help the environment at the same time. The city’s street lighting results in emissions of around 6,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, about fifth of the council’s total carbon emissions. Using the latest technology would greatly reduce this figure, and save money in the process. So there is a clear argument to replace our street lights. At a recent Cabinet meeting, Tom asked what progress the council had made towards replacing its street lights with LEDs. The cabinet member (Redland councillor Fi Hance) informed us that the council has been replacing street lights

with LEDs as and when lights needed replacing, but that some programmes are in the pipeline to replace more lights across the city. It’s also worth noting that, by avoiding a large roll out over recent years, going forward we will benefit from better LED technology that will save even more energy once they’re installed. Whilst reducing financial costs and carbon emissions are great reasons to convert our street lights to LEDs, there’s another reason that’s often overlooked. We were recently given a tour around the local streets by a resident with retinitis pigmentosa, a condition which results in tunnel vision. Using simulation glasses, we were able to experience what it’s like to walk the streets at night with a visual impairment. Objects in the way become much harder to see, especially if they’re in the corner of one’s eye like a parked car or

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a recycling box. The difference between a well-lit street and a poorly-lit one becomes all too obvious. Imagine the photo being all you can see when walking the streets at night. The light that comes from LED street lights is much brighter, focused and is a more natural white colour, as opposed to the orange glow that older lamps give off. This can make a world of difference for someone with a visual impairment, helping them to navigate the streets at night much more safely. So clearly there are multiple benefits from replacing the city’s street lights with LEDs, and we’re happy to see that some programmes are in the works to replace more of Bristol’s street lights over the coming years.

consultation on its draft fiveyear plan, its 2018-19 budget proposals and a range of ways to close its budget gap of £108 million between April 2018 and April 2023. The consultation is open now and people can give their feedback until midnight on Sunday 17th December at www.bristol.gov.uk/corpstrategy There are also consultations about specific services, including parks, available at the same link. Furthermore, a new version of the council’s Budget Simulator is has also been launched – why not try your hand at seeing how you would deal with the budget gap: http://bristol.budgetsimulator. com Finally, we’d like to wish everyone a very merry Christmas, and all the best for 2018!

Corporate Strategy and Budget Consultation The council has launched a

Tom Brook – Cllr.Tom. Brook@bristol.gov.uk Eleanor Combley – Cllr. Eleanor.Combley@bristol.gov.uk

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS In Cotham this month... Parks I’m delighted that this administration has finally accepted that our parks cannot become cost-neutral and have found £1.69m to plug the gap. There’s more work to be done, including ensuring that Cotham Gardens play equipment is properly maintained. Weeds: Cotham ward is being sprayed again. I have invited environmental groups to meet me with council officers and Bristol Waste Company to find a workable plan for pesticide-free treatment across the city. Libraries I vigorously supported Friends of Redland Library at Full Council on 14 November and also proposed a LibDem motion to adopt an alternative model to sustain more of our libraries in an integral public/ community network. Labour’s inflexible defence was defeated but Cabinet makes a final decision on 4 December. Watch all the drama at https://bristol. public-i.tv/core/portal/webcast_ interactive/317106 items 8 & 12.

Budget/5 year plan and other consultations, including parks https://www.bristol.gov. uk/en_US/council-spendingperformance/corporate-strategy2018-2023-budget-consultation - to be returned by Sunday 17th December. Paper copies are available. Mayor’s visit to Cotham ward On 3 November, deliberately waste collection day, Mayor Rees joined me on a whistle-stop tour, seeing and hearing the problems associated with high density/ HMO living, lack of public facilities, safety and pollution issues around Arley Hill and Redland Road and visiting local caring organisations. Some of this was tied in with the student mitigation panel that I coordinate and I believe as a result, Mayor Rees now has a better appreciation of Cotham ward and some of its issues. With my best wishes to everyone at this festive season. Please feel free to contact me: Cllr. Anthony Negus cllr.anthony.negus@bristol. gov.uk /07833 484344

Planning a matter of communication and cohesion? I am becoming more aware that within the ward of Cotham there is a steady flow of planning applications which range from the small to the huge. The applications span a whole range of things from small residential matters to commercial such as extensions or adaptions to residential care homes and schools as well as applications to extend the capacity of existing homes of multiple occupations which are usually but not always for student accommodation. Sometimes decisions may seem inevitable such as school expansions which some will argue are essential on the basis of growing demand. Others may take a more holistic and city wide view taking into account other under subscribed schools as well as more obvious considerations for local residents in terms of noise pollution and privacy. Cotham school has now received planning permission for a new classroom block and dining hall.

December, 2017

It continues to be a popular choice for parents across the city perhaps in part due to its legacy as grammar school even though stats show that certain students actually do better at other less popular schools. Which ever side of the fence you may be on, getting planning agreed and subsequent cohesion is a matter of compromise and negotiation. Having visited residents and businesses this week my advice would be to where possible invite effected parties for a cup of tea to discuss plans so that everyone may feel included and softer compromises such as planting arrangements for privacy may be found beyond the formalities of the planning process.

Cllr Cleo Alberta Lake Green Party Cotham Ward Tel: 07584 480531 cllr.cleo.lake@bristol.gov.uk 07584 480531

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n NEWS In Redland this month... Budget consultation The Council has launched its budget consultation http:// Bristol.gov.uk/corpstrategy The sheer amount of the savings that are needed means that everyone will feel the impact of council cuts so please do try to take part if you can and make your views heard. Parking scheme guidance announced We have received details of how any new Residents Parking Scheme requests could be taken forward. The Mayor has made clear that any new scheme would need to demonstrate 'overwhelming support' but this is not defined. There are already two or more groups of streets in this ward where we are getting pressures from residents to deal with commuter parking problems and we've been asking for guidance for months now. One group took their own statements to present to the Full Council and Mayor in November, describing their experiences and problems.

Parks debate The exact reduction to the cuts in the budget is still unclear, but it is inevitable that various commercial initiatives should in future pay for part of the budget needed, although there still seems to be a budget shortfall. The Downs have a separate basis as they are jointly owned and managed by the Council and Merchant Venturers, but also need to find ways to be self funding. We know how much people value our parks and there's already voluntary input into managing all the major spaces in the area but there's currently no scheme proposed to manage the major and smaller spaces. One suggestion has been to form a new city Parks and Trees Trust is set up to take over management of open spaces across the city Libraries update The good news for the Bishopston library is that it was in options consulted on that got more support for keeping

open, although not closing any libraries got more comments. It's therefore in council proposals going forward which suggest that it is likely to remain open if the current plans are implemented. Air quality event Fi and Martin have each attended several air quality events recently where the discussions have been very wide ranging over what measures the council and the wider community can take to improve the unacceptably polluted air in our neighbourhood. The government has recently issued yet more guidelines and is looking to Bristol to be something of a trailblazer in the area as we have done so much work already. It worth pointing out that the government money for a feasibility study into what would work best only covers roadside emissions of NO2 rather than other harmful particulates but on the plus side there is some serious attention being paid to what changes will improve our air quality as quickly as possible.

33 Recent Cabinet issues As Cabinet member for Energy and Waste, Fi was delighted to be able to announce recently that the Council is increasing its target for reducing its carbon footprint from 50 to 65 % by 2020 as its already managed 60%. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heartening that such change is possible, saving significant amounts of money and protecting the wider environment. She took this news to the recent UN climate talks in Bonn as representative of the city, where the role of local and regional government in tackling climate change was endorsed by the international delegates. She also signed Bristol up for the WHO breathe life city campaign and made a start on drumming up support for the city's energy infrastructure plans. Martin Fodor cllrmartin.fodor@bristol.gov.uk 07884736101 Fi Hance cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk 0117 3534720

at our lovely houses in Redland and Henleaze

ABF Adcontact Half Page 180x120 1 22/02/2017 11:09 To21435 advertise, Emma onAW.indd 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS In St Andrews this month... ON 14 November we had our first Full Council meeting since July. A large volume of business had accumulated for the meeting, and many residents and campaign groups attended to raise issues in the public forum. A number of statements were received from residents of St Andrews and Bishopston, in relation to the parking and road safety problems affecting the area. As we’ve mentioned in articles before, we’ve had a lot of correspondence from people about the shortage of parking spaces (exacerbated by shopper and commuter parking), inconsiderate parking on junctions and on pavements, and problem vehicles such as abandoned vans and caravans. Residents are now starting to organise themselves, and if you’d like to be put in touch with the group that is forming please let us know.

One measure which some are interested in pursuing is a Residents’ Parking Scheme. In response to approaches from a number of councillors, the Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Mhairi Threlfall, has released a ‘scoping document’ detailing the criteria and processes that need to be fulfilled for the Council to introduce a new scheme. A high bar of community support would need to be reached, and we will be discussing this further with officers from the Highways team in due course. The November Full Council also had a large number of statements submitted from the public about parks and what budget there would be for their upkeep in the future. As our ward has one of the best parks in Bristol (St Andrews Park) we know how important this is, and Cllr Johnson discussed

this passionately in her maiden speech delivered at the meeting. The Deputy Mayor for Communities, Cllr Asher Craig, announced that the Council would not be cutting the parks budget as much as was originally announced, after parks groups raised serious concerns about the initial proposal to make the budget ‘cost-neutral’. However, savings will still need to be made, and there is a consultation happening about how these will be delivered. In addition, libraries were a big topic of debate at the meeting, in response to suggestions from the administration about how savings passed at the February budget meeting would be made. A motion was moved which called for a new set of proposals, delivering ‘a professionally led mutual model that embraces volunteers and secures the future

of the library network’, and this was passed by Full Council. Finally, the Council has begun consulting on its revised Corporate Strategy and savings to be made in 2018/19, in advance of the next budget meeting of Full Council in February. This is alongside a set of consultations that are open until 17 December, including a consultation on our approach to parks and green spaces. To have your say, visit www.bristol.gov. uk/corpstrategy, or find a paper copy in your local library. Mike Davies, cllr.mike.davies@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 413 Jude English cllr.jude.english@bristol.gov.uk 07584 151 099 Carole Johnson cllr.carole.johnson@bristol.gov.uk 07584 370 414

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December, 2017

n PRIMAL POSTURE with

Clare Chapman

Warm hands for winter WINTER is here and most of us will be digging out our hats, scarves, boots and gloves. Clothing insulates our body heat, but warmer hands and feet in particular also need good circulation. Your posture can help here because when you align your body well, your blood can flow unimpeded to the extremities. Poor standing with the pelvis pushed forward in the ‘tail tucked under’ position can put pressure

An open chest and shoulders aids blood flow

on the femoral artery and reduce blood flow to the legs and feet. Similarly, shoulders that are slumped or pulled tight in tension can inhibit blood flow through the axillary artery that runs under the upper chest to supply the arm and hand. Students who suffer with cold hands or feet often report improvements after their Gokhale Method Foundation Course and learning to adjust their alignment. Better posture can be especially helpful for those prone to circulatory problems such as Reynauds syndrome, but everyone will benefit from the simple but effective techniques such as the Shoulder Roll. Here’s how: Performing a gentle shoulder roll. One shoulder at a time, elbow in, sweep it a little forward, a little up, a lot back, and then totally relax. This will prevent tension

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between your shoulder blades or back- arching in an attempt to ‘pull’ the shoulders back. To help your shoulders stay rested back, position yourself within comfortable reach of your task – be that items on a kitchen worktop, your keyboard, or the steering wheel of your car. We often have the poor postural habits of rounding forward or displacing the whole shoulder forward to reach things. For more information on how good posture boosts the circulation and musculoskeletal health go to www.gokhalemethod. com or go online to book a place on my free workshops. Bristol Workshop dates: •M onday 11th December, 3.30pm, Spicer+Cole, Gloucester Rd • S unday 14th January, 3pm, Spicer+Cole, Gloucester Rd

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n NEWS Yoga for Health by Diana Penny

of Yogawest (www.yogawest.co.uk)

Yoga Pose of the Month:

Trikonasana (Triangle pose)

Practice time: 20â&#x20AC;&#x201C;30 seconds. Benefits: Develops strength and flexibility through the legs, arms, spine, and chest. 1. Stand up straight and tall. With an inhalation, jump your feet three and a half to four feet apart and swing your arms out to the sides. Fully stretch your arms and legs and raise your chest. Feel what alertness comes to your spine and organic body when you lift the inner ankles. 2. Turn your right foot out. At the same time, turn your right leg from the root of the thigh out. Roll your right outer thigh toward your left thigh. Take a few breaths. Exhale and bend sideways over your right leg. 3. Take hold of your right shin, and as you do so, firm both legs: press the outer edge

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

of your left foot down and pull up your kneecaps. 4. Make sure that your right side hip and right armpit are level with each other. Press your pelvis forward and roll your left hip and torso back. With a circular action, move your right buttock closer to the bone. Cut your right shoulder-blade forward toward your right breast; release your right shoulder back. Breathing normally, raise your left arm and look up. Move the shoulder-blades into the body.

5. Try touching your right hand to the floor, keeping your pelvis pressed forward, aligned over your right foot as you do so. Hold the pose for 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Eyes passive. Allow the brain to come down into the body. Practice note: To help keep your shoulders, feet and hips in alignment, and for a less strenuous way of practicing, do this pose with your shoulders and buttocks against the wall and your hand on a block. Do not allow your body weight to come down too much onto your front leg hand.

Drawings and posture text reproduced by kind permission of Bobby Clennell, a senior Iyengar teacher in New York who teaches biennial workshops at Yogawest.

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December, 2017

n NEWS FROM THE MAYOR

Arena: look at all angles THIS month, the waste enforcement campaign that I launched during my State of the City speech has really started to take effect. The city’s new enforcement team will be giving out fines of up to £75 to anyone caught dropping litter. This is part of the serious steps we are taking to get to grips with Bristol’s litter problem. I launched my Clean Streets campaign last year and whilst we have had a great response from children, community organisations and individuals it is not right that these people should have to sort out the city’s rubbish problems alone. Our team have been out on the street trying to change Bristol’s littering habit. In the team’s first week of operating they have handed out over 500 fines, which shows the extent of the problem we are dealing with. By cracking down on the minority who are spoiling the city for the rest of us we will be able to make Bristol the clean city that it should be. You can find more information about the campaign at the Clean Streets pages of the

council website. Meanwhile the value for money review into Bristol’s arena continues and I have asked for it to be widened to consider all possibilities. We must consider every avenue when looking at this project. This includes raising private investment, thinking about other sites and considering designs which could be delivered within budget. Nothing is off the table because, one way or another, this city is going to get an arena it can afford. We have also launched a council wide consultation on our draft five year plan for the council. This consultation, called ‘Tough Times, High Hopes’, will set out our priorities for the direction of the city and will also include some of our proposals to make the savings of £52million. This follows on from our ‘Your Neighbourhood’ consultation earlier this year where we laid out plans for wide-reaching proposals. The results of this are due to be considered soon by me and my cabinet. To have your say on our plans and review our

The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice

savings proposals please head to our website at www.bristol.gov.uk/corpstrategy.

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES NOVEMBER is the one month of the year where there is no urgent vineyard work to be done. This, you would think, would be a blissful thing. But in reality, going from working outdoors every day to no outdoor work actually feels a bit strange. I have to remind myself to make the most of this quiet time because before I know it I’ll be busy again and longing for a free morning to have coffee on Gloucester Road. On some of the sunnier recent days, I’ve visited the vineyard to begin rolling up the bird nets I put up back in September. I like to reuse the nets each year so wrap each 100 metre-long section back onto a small roll ready to put up again at the end of next summer. This simple, repetitive task allows me to work but keep an eye on what’s around me including my latest vineyard dwellers, a pair of green woodpeckers. All summer long, these striking birds have been up and down the vineyard showing considerable interest in the trunks of the vines. I kept trying to sneak up on them to see what they were doing but it’s only recently that I’ve finally figured it out. Woodpeckers love ants and this pair had located

the ants’ nests beneath the polythene weed sheet. Although a man-made product, I’ve noticed the black polythene sheet I have along each vineyard row provides a nice warm home for mice, voles, toads and insects and that these creatures are in turn providing food for something else – a great example of human influence having a positive impact on the diversity of a small area. All of our 2017 grapes are, as we read, being made into wine. Our 2016 Pinot rosé has nearly sold out. Our 2016 sparkling is halfway through its traditional method winemaking process and will be disgorged around May 2018 ready for sale late 2018. I’ll be at a few Christmas markets over the festive period but do get in touch if you’d like some of the last few remaining bottles of this year’s rosé as recommended in the Guardian and on ITV’s Saturday Morning with James Martin! Email: hello@ dunleavyvineyards.co.uk Search: www. dunleavyvineyards.co.uk Twitter: @DYvineyards Facebook: dunleavy vineyards

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n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA December 2 n New Harmony Ladies Choir and Bristol Male Voice Choir invite you to A Seasonal Concert also featuring Oldland Brass, at 7.30. At Horfield United Reform Church Muller Road. Tickets £10 from choir members or at the door. Two great choirs and a Brass Band to get you in the seasons mood. There will be a retiring collection for our charity G.O.S.H. (Gastro Oesophageal Support and Help) Visit our websites www.nhlcbristol.co.uk www.bristolmvc.org.uk December 2 & 3 n' Christmas Ale & Cider Fundraiser Weekend' on the 2nd & 3rd of December. Things that'll be going on include; over 12 local real ales. over 8 local real ciders, mulled Cider & mince pies, live music, including local musician pianist Harrison Treble, artist corner, local art gallery and more. With all funds going to the Save the Prince of Wales Campaign December 9 n Golden Hill Community Garden wreath making workshop Saturday 9th December 10am-4pm. Drop in throughout the day. Last entry 3pm. Beautiful festive foliage for a stunning natural wreath. Mince pies and refreshments available. December 9 n The Redland Green Choir’s Christmas concert will take place at St Matthew’s, Kingsdown, at 7.30pm on Saturday 9th December. The programme will range from the sixteenth century (William Byrd’s O Magnum Mysterium) to the twentyfirst century (Ave Maris Stella by James MacMillan), with some carols for everyone to sing. Tickets are £8 (concessions £6). For more details, see redlandgreenchoir.org.uk. December 9 n 5pm, Amahl and the Night Visitors A magical Christmas Opera Amahl and the Night Visitors, in one act by Gian Carlo Menotti. Semi-staged with soloists, dances and St Alban’s Church choir and orchestra. At St Alban’s Church, BS6 7NU, 5pm, hot drinks, cakes and mince pies to follow. Children welcome. Profits to be shared between The Church in Westbury Park and MIND. Tickets £10 adults £5 child, £20 family (2+2) December 11 n Bristol Cabot Choir Christmas Concert – Monday. 11 December 2017 – 7.30 pm – Bristol Cathedral – a performance of the Messe de Minuit de Noël by Marc-Antoine

Charpentier and other lovely Christmas music for choir and audience. Conducted by Rebecca Holdeman, with Andrew Kirk, Organ, Charity No. 116260. Tickets: Reserved £15 - Unreserved £10/£5 (NUS card/under 18s) On line: www.opus13.co.uk - Ticket Line: 0117 923 0164/0117 9626521. www.bristolcabotchoir.org Supporting Bristol Off the Record Charity. December 15 n Eden Grove Methodist Church, Eden Grove, Bristol BS7 0PQ at 7.30 p.m. Tickets are £7.50 available in advance from Dot Bryant 0117 9690654, from Members of the Choir, or at the Door on the day. We are having a retiring collection for our charity of the year, which is "Freewheelers" (Blood Bikes). December 16 n 7.30 pm, A Gurt Lush Christmas at St Alban's Church, Westbury Park BS6 7NU. A Festive Extravaganza from Gurt Lush Choir and Bristol Man Chorus. Behold a gurt and glorious throng of Lushness! Joined by our Bristol Man Chorus chums, we’re sporting our tasteless Christmas jumpers and sparkly antlers for a feast of music spanning five centuries, from classic delights to wassails and even a pop favourite or two. There’ll be liberal helpings of favourite carols so don’t miss your chance for a joyful seasonal singalong. Tickets £10 (adults) under 18s £2. January 8 n Tai Chi Classes for beginners Join us in the New Year and fit the Chinese way. Always wanted to try Tai Chi? For centuries the Chinese have practised Tai Chi as simple but powerful form of exercise for strength, balance and mindfulness. Always want to give it a try, now you don't have to go to China. The Bristol School of Tai Chi has lots of daytime and evening classes in Henleaze and Bishopston starting from the 8 January. Any questions contact Ben Milton on 0117 9493955. taichi@bristoltaichi.com www.bristoltaichi.com

WHAT’S ON A REGULAR BASIS Monday n Toddler group at Ardagh Pavilion, Kellaway Avenue, Horfield Common. Ages 0-3, cost £2.50 per family includes refreshments and biscuits. All welcome. Friendly vibrant group just drop in. Contact Kay on 01179426580 for further

details. n FitSteps, Ashley Down Primary School, Olveston Road, 7-8pm. FitSteps® the new craze in dance fitness classes from ‘Strictly Come Dancing’s’ very own Natalie Lowe, Ian Waite and Mark Foster. n Morris for fitness and fun, 7.15pm – 8.15pm at Horfield URC, Muller Road, Horfield, BS7 9RE during term time only, no performance element, small groups. Sticks and hankies provided. Tel/text: Kim on 07813 346819 / 0117 9401566 n Redland Wind Band rehearses at the Quakers Meeting Room on Gloucester Road at 7.30pm. We sometimes have vacancies, currently mainly for bass instruments, horns and percussionists. Contact Andy Brown at redlandwindband@googlemail. com or on 07594240269 or via our website www.redlandwindband. co.uk . Get in touch if you would like to be put on our mailing list or would like to book us for events or fundraisers. n Redland Green Choir meets for rehearsals every Monday 7.30pm-9.30pm at Redland Green School. We sing a wide variety of music. New members welcome: no auditions. For more information, visit redlandgreenchoir.org.uk. or phone 0117 9443042. n Beaufort Junior Badminton Club. Venue: Cotham School Sports Hall, Cotham Lawn Road, BS6 6DT. Date/Time: Mondays from 6-7pm, term time only. Age Group: 11 18 years. All standards. Coaching and club play but also progression to Avon County Teams and senior clubs. Coaches CRB checked and Badminton England qualified. Contact: Penny Shears 0794 101 3514. Email: pennyshears@ googlemail.com n RAFA, City of Bristol branch and club Eastfield Westbury on Trym for ex-RAF and associate members. Skittle Alley, parties and functions. Live entertainment on Saturday evenings. Open Monday to Saturday lunchtimes and evenings. Sundays noon till 5pm. All enquiries telephone 0117 3291913. n Exercise Movement and Dance class for ladies. Low impact classes offer dance, exercise and core strengthening. Strengthen muscles, raise energy levels, improve balance and mobilise joints. 6.25-7.30pm at Fairlawn Primary School, Fairlawn Road, Montpelier, Bristol, BS6 5JL. Tel: Rachael at FL Exercise on 07966 418 714 /

December, 2017

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

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

rachaelwilliams@ talktalk.net . Classes run on 5-7 week basis - charged as a block booking (£8 per class -1st Class Free). n Mondays 10:00am, 11:15am, 18:00pm. Yoga for everyone and all stages of life. Move, breathe, strengthen, calm at our beautiful YogaSpace Bishopston studio. Find out more at www.bristolyogaspace. co.uk or contact Clara hello@ bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Senior Film Club, every third Monday in the month at 2pm St Peter's Hall, The Drive, Henleaze, BS9 4LD. All Welcome. Refreshments £3. Dial-a-ride transport possible by personal arrangement ; 0845 130 1875. n Redland Green Bowls Club welcomes new members, come along to our club on Redland Green any Monday after 4pm , or book a free taster session with one of our qualified coaches. Jean or Gerry :Tel 9624466 . HALF price membership for the first year (£50) n 8pm Fun Quiz Night: Tv, Film, Music & more! at the Bristol Flyer, Gloucester Road, Bishopston Just £1 to enter n After school French Club for primary children at Gloucester Rd Quaker Meeting House. the new class times are: Monday: Level 2 – 5.10 – 5.50 All classes take place at The Quaker Meeting House, Gloucester rd. Website – www. frenchclubbristol.com n The Arts Society Bristol (formerly BDFAS) is for those who enjoy the arts and welcomes new members. Activities include monthly lectures at 8pm in School of Chemistry, BS8 1TS by specialists in their field. More information on our new website www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk n Watercolour Painting Art Classes take place every Monday

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

December, 2017 at Redland Library, between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Each half term course focusses on a new subject each half term. Suitable for beginner and intermediate levels, with some previous drawing experience recommended. For more information or to book, please visit: www.painting.zone. For queries or to add your name to the mailing list, contact Stella Shaw at admin@painting.zone or ‘phone 07791400362. Tuesday n The Golden Buds is a group aimed at 18 months to 4yearolds and is a fabulous opportunity to be outside with your little ones, digging, playing, finding newts and frogs, watering, singing and making things all in the heart of urban Bristol! Sessions run from 9.30-11am and 11.30-1pm in school terms. We take booking on a term by term basis. Each session costs £5, a second sibling is £2.50 and under 12 months can come along free. There’s squash and biscuits and a snack from the garden as well as a hot drink for parents. For more info, visit: thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Scottish Country Dancing Get fit with Westbury Scottish Club. Classes for beginners at Leonard Hall, Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road, Henleaze, (Tel: Tina 0117 9075462). Classes for more advanced dancers at St Peter’s Church Hall, Henleaze, (Tel: Cheryl 0117 9590970). 7.30pm to 9.30pm wscbristol.com n After school French Club for primary children at Gloucester Rd Quaker Meeting House. KS1 class: Tuesday: Level 1 – 4.10 – 4.45, Level 2 – 4.50 – 5.30 Level 3 – 5.40 – 6.20 Playful practical classes full of games, songs and general silliness to inspire interest and confidence in French. Like French Club Bristol on Facebook or email: alice_m_ watson@msn.com n Women’s Reading Group looking for new members. Meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the Month at 7:30pm. An informal group that reads a wide range of fiction. Contact Kay Snowdon ksnowdon29@gmail.com for further details. n A weekly Music Appreciation class is running throughout the winter. Come and join us as we listen to and talk about a selection of mainly classical music. No prior knowledge needed. Tuesdays 11-1 at St Mary Magdalene Church Rooms, Stoke Bishop. Music in Britain 18901939 including Elgar Delius and Vaughan Williams. Cost £15 for a single taster session or £100 for the whole 8week term. To book email matthewhm@ peacemail.com, or phone 0117

bishopstonvoice 214 0418. For more info visit: heartmusicbristol.wordpress.com n Melody Makers Baby Friendly Choir A fun and friendly daytime choir for ladies running Tuesdays during term time.9:30-11:00am, The Beehive Pub, BS9 4QY. £5 per session, discounts for members. Contact Natalie www.facebook. com/melodymakerschoir 07890393175. n Bristol Brunel Lions Club – We meet at Shirehampton Golf Club on the first Tuesday of every at 7 for 7.30 on the 3rd Tuesday of each month we have a social gathering normally with food. We raise money for charity both locally and beyond through a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Lots of fun and fellowship raising and spending money for good causes. For more details of how to apply for assistance with charitable activities in Bristol or to become involved in our activities see Bristol Brunel Lions Club on line or contact our Club Secretary Bill O’Neill at lion. bill@virginmedia.com Wednesday n Golden Hill Community Garden. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Come and get involved in your local community garden! No experience necessary and kids welcome. Learn about growing and relax in our beautiful space with a cup of tea. No need to come every week or stay all day. Our site is wheelchair accessible including our toilet. For more information contact Lucy ghcgarden@gmail. com or 07506 905 394. We’re just through the gates at the end of Monk Rd BS7 8NE www. thegoldenhillcommunitygarden. com n Bristol Voices Community Choir are welcoming new members, £5 a week (£3 concs) payable at the start of each term. We meet during the school term from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in St Werburgh’s Primary School, James St, BS2 9US. The school is fully accessible and has free parking. No experience necessary, no auditions and you don’t have to read music as all the songs are taught by ear. Our repertoire includes pop, folk, gospel, jazz, show tunes and world music. Find out more about the choir, at www.bristolvoices.org.uk n New Harmony Ladies’ Choir Bristol. Established choir since 1994, we offer a chance for ladies to get together and have a good old sing! No auditions are necessary apart from placing you into the correct voice group soprano, mezzo soprano or alto. We perform several concerts a year and sometimes travel to other parts of the country to sing with other choirs. Our repertoire covers classical, choral, jazz, popular,

folk, and show songs. Everyone is welcome to Horfield URC church hall, Muller Rd on Wednesdays 7.30-9.30. We’d love to meet you. For more information contact our website www.nhlcbristol.co.uk or our secretary, Angela nhlc@talktalk. com n Lazy Dog Film Club. A free, small, but perfectly formed community film club based at the Lazy Dog pub on Ashley Down Road. We run the club every other week (Wednesday) in the upstairs of the Pub on Ashley Hill. We screen from Sept - July every year. All showings start at 8pm but we do advise people to book free places via LazyDogFilmClub@gmail.com , as we only have 35 seats per showing. For more information on the upcoming films, visit: www. facebook.com/LazyDogFilmClub n Horfield Townswomen’s Guild. This friendly Townswomen’s Guild meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Gregory the Great Church Hall, Filton Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 0PD at 2.30pm. Why not come along and meet us? Just turn up, or ring Edna on 949 5413, and she will look out for you. n Squirrel Camp Forest School, Badock’s Wood, 9.45-11.15 and 1.00-2.30 (during term time). £6 per family. Contact: jennysanderson@ blueyonder.co.uk. n Sing! with the Bristol Children’s Choir. Open to children aged 7-13 from any school in Bristol. If your child loves singing and would like to do more, Out There Music Children’s Choir could be what you are looking for. Meet every in term time from 4.45-6pm in the performing arts studio at Cotham School. More info, contact Holly Shannon on 07866587424, admin@ outtheremusicbristol.co.uk . n Spiritual Healing at Westbury Park Spiritualist church BS6 7TH Every Wednesday, 2pm - 3.30pm every week. No appointment necessary, animals welcome. Come along and feel the benefit. Also healing after Sunday evening service@8pm. n Wednesdays 10:00am. Baby & Me post-natal yoga class, 10:00 11:00am plus tea and chat after. Supportive, friendly class with babies made very welcome. Move, breathe, meet and chat with other new mums at YogaSpace Bishopston. Find out more at www. bristolyogaspace.co.uk or contact Clara hello@bristolyogaspace.co.uk / 07530 053 543. n Why not join welsh national opera Friends. We support this world class company and everyone is very welcome to join. We offer monthly evening meetings at Redmaids High School MONTHLY at 7.15pm. Talks with music. Costs-£7.00 or £1.00 for students

39 (Friends £5.00). For further information contact: Margaret Borkowski:borkmail@gmail.com n Melody Makers Pop Choir. An evening choir for men and women singing popular songs. Wednesday's term time 7:30-9:00pm The Eastfield Inn, Henleaze. Book a FREE taster www. melodymakerschoir.co.uk n Read together a short story and poem. Weekly drop-in adult group, shared reading. It's fun, sometimes surprising, moving and exciting. No preparation, just come along and listen. Bishopston Library, every Wednesday 11.30am to 1.00pm. We read and chat. Refreshments provided. Free. n Westbury Park WI is the local WI for Westbury Park, Henleaze and Bishopston. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month from 7.30pm in Redland Church Hall, Redland Green Road, BS6 7HE. Guest fees are £4 per meeting – Glass of wine £2, tea, coffee, soft drinks 50p, other refreshment options available, biscuits/cake free. December 6th - Christmas Meeting - bring along a sample of your favourite Christmas recipe for people to taste. There will also be mulled wine, mince pies and carol singing. Fun for all ages. All welcome. January 3rd meeting will be looking at this year's resolutions short list, plus there will be a quiz. westburyparkwi@gmail.com and www.westburyparkwi.org.uk Thursday n Bishop Road Community Choir. We are a mixed community choir, meeting at Bishop Road School from 7.45pm to 9pm. Everyone welcome to join, regardless of singing experience. There is no audition and the choir is open to anyone, not just parents of children at the school. We sing a variety of songs and perform locally. £3.00 per session. n Bristol Ladies Choir sings a wide range of music from classical to light. The choir rehearses weekly and gives two main concerts each year. The choir also participates in approximately 9 to 10 other concerts in the Bristol area each year. Meet at 2.15pm - 3.45pm at Church of the Good Shepherd, Bishop Road, Bishopston, BS7 8NA. New members welcome. For more information contact Hazel on 0117 9246587 or visit www. bristolladieschoir.org.uk n The Stepford Singers. Come and try Bishopston’s all female community choir. No need to read music and no auditions! We meet 1pm - 3pm so you can still be in time to pick up kids from school. For more info, email fran@ naturalvoice.net n West Bristol Orchestra meet at the United Reformed Church,

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA Muller Road, from 7.15 - 9.15pm and play a wide range of classical music arranged for our small friendly orchestra. String players of Grade 5 and above are particularly welcome. For further information please ring 0117 968 3998. n Avon Harmony Ladies A Cappella Chorus meets for rehearsals every Thursday 7.30 -10pm at Fairfield High School, Allfoxton Road BS7 9NL. We are always made welcome, and we are actively recruiting new members. There is no need to be able to read music; we provide teaching tracks for learning by ear. See our website for more details www.avonharmony.co.uk or contact Mandy on 0117 652693 or Barbara on 07717 424421. n Horfield Quakers hold a halfhour meeting for worship to be held every Thursday Evening from 6.307pm, at Horfield Quaker Meeting House, 300 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8PD. All are welcome. n Pregnancy Yoga and Birth Preparation at Horfield Leisure Centre, 7.30-9.15pm. Classes offer you the time to celebrate your pregnancy, ask questions and meet

other mumstobe in a safe and welcoming environment. For more information visit www.lymalnick. info, or contact Ly on 07843 377 718 / ly.malnick@gmail.com n Slimming World Bishopston. St Michael and All Angels Church (Pigsty Hill) Gloucester Road. Groups at 9.30am and 7.30pm every Thursday. £9.95 to join and £4.95 per week after that. 6 and 12 week countdowns available. Just turn up or Call Sue on 0117 924 3556 or 07702 578 298 for a chat. n Kings Lawn Tennis Club Rusty Rackets, 19:30-21: 00. Want to get back into tennis? Come along to our fun and welcoming Rusty Rackets session every Thursday evening at Kings Lawn Tennis Club, Maplemeade ( just off Kings Drive) BS7 8JG. Nonmembers (£8) and members (£6) welcome! Contact Head Coach Elly Shearman only tennis .kings@hotmail.com for more details! n Bridge for Beginners and Improvers West of England Bridge Club now welcomes new/novice bridge players for weekly sessions held every Thursday afternoon. Cost £3. Doors open at 1.45pm and

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play is from 2.00pm to 4.00pm. No partner needed and we have experienced players to help and advice. Beginners lessons also offered email bridgeclassbristol @ gmail.com or ring 0117 2302694 for more info. Venue: Golden Hill Sports Club, Wimbledon Road, Bristol BS6 7YA. Full details at www. woebc.co.uk n Spiritualist church Westbury Park Cairns Road BS6 7TH Open development circle Thursday evening at 7.15 for 7.30 start All are welcome. n Sporting Memories Group at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Ground most Thursdays from 11am to 12.30pm. A group suitable for people that are isolated or lonely and may have memory difficulties. The group is particularly for those that are interested in sport. Please contact John Collis on 07757527634 or come along to the ground from 11am. n Henleaze Ladies Choir is a friendly welcoming group which meets in St Peters Church Hall, Henleaze on Thursdays between September and May from 1.30 – 3.30 pm (with a short break for tea). We give 2 charity concerts a year in December and May and from time to time are invited to entertain community groups around the city. There are also occasional social events organised. We are always pleased to see new members. Pease come and try a rehearsal without obligation. To find out more contact Jane English (07752 332278) or Jean Wickham (0117 9624466). Friday n Bristol University of the third age (u3a) scrabble group would welcome new members. We play very friendly and informal games every Friday at the Beehive, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY from 2 to 4pm. For further info please contact Heddy SARA on 0117 9241318 and indicate when asked to give your name that you are phoning about scrabble in order not to be blocked. also email : nigel.d.sara@btinternet.com Saturday n Whiteladies Farmers’ and Fair Trading Market is now held EVERY

G & DANCE ..... JUST DRAMA Telephone: www.facebook.com/bristolacademyofdrama

Saturday, from 8.30am-2pm. Takes place at the junction of Whiteladies/Apsley/Burlington Roads. Stalls cover bread, cheese, local lamb and chicken, fish, preserves, cakes, sushi, local fruit and veg, wild food larder, and recycled tools, wooden items and much more. n Coffee, Tea and Refreshments served every Saturday from 10.30am to noon at Bishopston Methodist Church, 245 Gloucester Road. Join us for a rest and a chat. n The Clifton Garden Society are eager to attract new members from all parts of Bristol. The Society offer monthly visits by coach to country houses and gardens, a quarterly newsletter. and an annual holiday. If you would like to join this friendly group please call 0117 9737296 for full details.

Christmas Services in Westbury Park Sunday December 17 n 6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Ave. Wednesday December 20 n 7.30pm The Longest Night Carols by Candlelight. A meditative service especially for those who ﬁnd Christmas difﬁcult at Westbury Park Methodist Church, North View. Christmas Eve n 4pm Children's service for Christmas. Come dressed as a character from the Nativity. at St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Ave. 11.15pm Midnight Communion at St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Ave. Christmas Day n 8am Holy Communion at St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Ave. 9.30am All Age Christmas Communion at St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Ave.

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

December, 2017

bishopstonvoice

n NEWS

Pensioner wing-walks to raise £1,000 for Southmead Hospital Charity A 73-YEAR-OLD completed a daring 130mph wing-walk to raise money for Southmead Hospital Charity’s Prostate Cancer Care Appeal. Bill Quinn, 73, from Fishponds, soared through the air at 2,000 feet above sea level as part of his charity challenge to raise 1,000 for the appeal. Mr Quinn chose the Prostate Cancer Care Appeal as a thank you for the radical neo-bladder surgery he had 19 years ago to treat his bladder cancer. Surgeons at Southmead Hospital removed his bladder and created an artificial bladder from a section of bowel. Mr Quinn said: “The doctors gave me three years to live and now almost 20 years later here I am! “I’ve always wanted to give something back and after having a chat in the pub with friends the wing-walking idea came up.” Mr Quinn did the 15-minute wingwalk in Dorset in September and has now presented Southmead Hospital Charity with a cheque for £1,000. “I was really excited to do it, there was a little apprehension but I wasn’t scared. “It was only 15 minutes from take-off to landing but it felt like longer, it was cold and loud but I really enjoyed it. “I hope to do a skydive for my 80th birthday.” Southmead Hospital is the largest urological centre in the country, treating thousands of prostate cancer patients a year. It is also one of only 5 centres in the UK to specialise in robotic surgery to

treat the disease. Robotic surgery is more accurate, less invasive, causes less blood loss, and reduces the length of stay in hospital than traditional surgical methods. Men also have much better long term prospects for a full recovery. Southmead Hospital Charity’s Prostate Cancer Care Appeal aims to raise funding to purchase two new surgical robots to replace the current, ageing model. The second surgical robot would enable the team to treat even more men as well as provide robotic surgery for other types of cancer like kidney, bladder and gynaecological. Adrian Brown, community appeals manager for Southmead Hospital Charity, said: “Bill’s story is an amazing example of the extraordinary lengths our fundraisers will go to – he is a real inspiration and we are so grateful. “The Prostate Cancer Care Appeal will ensuring that Southmead Hospital and Bristol will continue to be at the forefront of urological cancer care and can treat more men like Bill who can go on to do remarkable things.” To find out more about the Prostate Cancer Care Appeal see www. southmead hospitalcharity/prostate

Photo credit to Southmead Hospital Charity

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

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bishopstonvoice

n VETS' ADVICE

Christmas presents for our pets

IT’S always fun to pick out a little present for our pets at Christmas; here are a few suggestions from us of what they might want this year from Father Christmas. There are many fun options for cats, fishing toys and laser pens can be a great game and provide exercise in the colder months when they don’t want to go outside. These toys are a good idea as they are games that are played at a distance from your body so you don’t unintentionally teach your cat to pounce towards your hands. No cat likes to come home to find another cat has broken in and even nibbled their dinner, investing in a microchip operated cat flap can solve this problem immediately. You can even buy a microchip operated dog-flap too! A festive themed jumper for dogs is a great idea to keep them warm during the cold morning walks; we have some fun jumpers as modeled by Lulu at the practice who loves being kept warm in her jumper. When outside, you can

also buy your dog a reflective collar or reflective jacket to make them more noticeable in those dark evening walks! Another way to keep them toasty warm is a heat mat and protective cover to go underneath their bed. A practical gift would be if your dog likes to eat their food very fast, a Slo-bowl can be an exciting way to extend dinner time for them. There are always fun Christmas themed toys and clothing; our favourites this year are an adorable doggie Christmas scarf and a very amusing Christmas dinner soft toy collection including a smiley roast turkey and a smiley-faced carrot! For rabbits and guinea pigs, I would avoid too many very high sugar treats, I have found most rabbits and guinea pigs are just as happy if you offer them some fresh vegetables or small portions of fruit. If you want to treat your rabbit and guinea pig, they will probably gain much more fun out of a new toy in their environment, both rabbits and guinea pigs love to play in tunnels or to knock around balls. Rabbits love to have toys that they can pick up and

throw around too. If you would like to see our range of Christmas presents for pets pop in to see us at Animal Health Centre.

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n SUSTAINABILITY with Hamish Mills, Sustainable Redland

How committed are we to clean air and decongested streets? IT was crisp and clear when I cycled off for an early morning swim the other day. The weight of autumn pushed the air down and birdsong echoed in the still of Redland Green Park. The quieter streets carried some of the stillness, but that changed at the main arteries. Exhaust fumes from solid lines of slowly moving traffic and unswitched off engines waiting at lights had no escape, leaving pedestrians, including school children, and cyclists with a nasty smelling toxicity of gas to breathe. Since there were more poisoners than poisoned, no one revolted. Although they did not know it however, the former were

breathing the air they had created, but with the nasty smells filtered out by the inside of their cars. Doing away with cars sounds preposterous. The city has to function and we citizens have to work and get around, but if in so doing our air becomes unbreathable and movement impossible, something will have to change. Maybe the trouble is that “they” don’t do anything to stop it. Who are “they”? The Council? The Government? Big business? Is it their fault our air is poisoned and roads clogged? Do they tell us to drive everywhere? Are we just pawns in a slow game

of self destruction? If we are uncomfortable with that, maybe it’s because we know that it is us who are the agents of change. If we do nothing, nothing will happen. Here are some thoughts: Firstly, we need to stop thinking of cars as our primary means of transport. We may feel we are reliant on them, but it’s no problem learning to think of alternatives first such as walking, using a bus or cycling if we want to get somewhere, and the car only as a final resort. We need to make sure we’ve taken advantage of any car sharing schemes for work, car clubs, and government cycle purchase offers.

If we want to lose weight and feel fitter and healthier, it’s a no brainer to stop using the car so much. Walk instead. Lifecycle UK offer special training courses if you’d like to try cycling but have lost confidence. For the really keen, check out Bristol’s transport plans on the internet and involve yourself in local pressure groups. There are several around. You would pretty quickly find out that the “they” of local government is doing a lot to encourage us out of our cars. We need to take big personal steps though, like the suggestions above if we are really going to clean up our air and decongest our streets.

Make 2018 your most amazing year yet AT this time of year, we start to think about our New Year resolutions. It’s often something personal, like kicking a bad habit, or vowing to see someone more often. But will you do something truly amazing this year, and make 2018 a year to be proud of? Home Start Bristol is a local charity, recruiting and training volunteers to support struggling families in the Bristol, and South Gloucestershire area. The charity runs three popular volunteer preparation courses each year: the next one starting on January 18. The training is interactive and fun, and many volunteers go on to achieve a CERTA Level 2 qualification. Upon completion of the course, volunteers are carefully matched with a family that they are expected to visit for two-three hours each week.

Scheme manager, Beverley Symonds, says: “We work alongside families, encouraging them and helping them to build confidence. This type of support benefits both children and parents, increasing their sense of wellbeing and ability to manage.” Of 182 Bristol families supported over 94% felt better able to cope as a result of this support. One parent explained: “The help from my volunteer was great because it provided a different perspective – motherly advice and nonjudgmental. It helped me to find my own voice.” It’s a simple, but effective approach – volunteers are parents, or grandparents, themselves, and understand the challenges of family life. Beverley Symonds added: “Many charities say they

depend on volunteers, but in our case, volunteers really are the lifeblood of what we do. 2017 has been a good year, with 107 families supported since April and we’ve trained over 40 volunteers. But more and more families are being referred to us and we are always looking for new volunteers to join us.” Volunteering is perfect for parents and grandparents and

courses are planned around school terms and timings. The next course is based in Lockleaze and will run every week from 18 January, for nine weeks from 10am-2pm. If you would like to find out more about the charity, make a donation or become a HomeStart Bristol volunteer, visit the website: www.homestartbristol. org.uk or phone 0117 950 1170.

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n BOOKS OF THE MONTH Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston Zora Neale Hurston was an African- American writer who died in 1960. She was one of the most accomplished American authors between the two world wars but has only recently received the recognition which was sadly lacking during her lifetime. Their Eyes Were Watching God was published in 1937. It is set in Florida at the beginning of the twentieth century. The novel concerns the story of Janie Crawford, an African-American woman who relates her life to her best friend Phoeby Watson. Janie is first married off to an older farmer, Logan Killicks who treats her like a domestic slave. She escapes by running off with Joe Starks who it turns out is only

interested in a trophy wife to further his own ambition. Janie finally meets Tea Cake, a young drifter and gambler who treats her with respect and encourages her to find her true self and identity. The novel is written using the dialect and colloquial language of a poor black woman in the southern states giving it a unique and authentic feel. Zora Neale Hurston is the writer who inspired the likes of Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison & Zadie Smith and if you are looking for an inspiring read over the festive season, this book is the one for you. Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library

The French Confection We thought this book was exceptionally good. However, some of the plot left us slightly puzzled.

Therefore we would say it is suitable for 9-13 year olds. It is in the genres of children’s fiction/ mystery and the story is about two brothers who win a holiday in Paris. Rather than an ordinary stay, the Diamond brothers receive something different and end up being chased by smugglers. It is a great book. It is very exciting. We would definitely read it again. Reviewed by Isabel (11) and Oscar (9) For these books and many more, visit us at Bishopston Library. If we don’t have exactly what you’re looking for, there are over 2 million items from which you can reserve across LibrariesWest and collect from any library of your choice.choice. Opening Hours:

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December, 2017

n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence

IT was a chilly November day when I went to collect the last of my beautiful apples (and the ugly ones too - they taste just as good). Blackbirds scattered and fieldfare scolded, chaka chaka, to remind me to leave a few for them, which, of course, I always do. With these wintry birds came a sudden thought of Christmas and not just the robin but also the mighty little wren. Jenny wren is a tiny rounded bird with a pertly up-tipped tail and a sharp beak. The male and female dress alike in drab brown but when one darts across the garden you are struck by the energy of this lively half-ounce bird. Like that other Christmas favourite it seems to contain a personality far larger than its small size would suggest. Both were protected from harm by many old taboos: ‘Kill a robin or a wren / Never prosper, boy or man.’ The wren’s irresistible vitality – flight as sudden as a Bonfire rocket, constant busyness, not to mention their

clamorous song – gives the strong impression of a forceful nature. Perhaps this explains the myth that crowns the wren king of the birds when he wins a contest to see who can fly the highest by perching un-noticed on the back of the prideful eagle. Like the robin, the wren is closely linked with winter and Christmas. The main association seems to have arisen in the 17th Century when there developed, despite ancient custom, a ‘tradition’ of killing a wren and parading it around the streets, leaving a feather for protection at each house. This ritual was performed in many places throughout Britain on St Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day) or Twelfth Night and persists even now in scattered locations, though, thankfully, a small box or bush now represents the wren. Apparently the wren was blamed for betraying St Stephen who was then captured and martyred, yet the power attributed to a wren’s feather seems to echo the earlier taboos. So let’s finish with a few astonishing facts for your Christmas quiz. The wren is just about Britain’s smallest bird (only goldcrest and firecrest are smaller) and weighs in at around the same as two twenty pence pieces (10g). Before winning his mate the male is expected to build several nests (on average he will have made six), not bothering to avoid humans he might build inside garden sheds and garages in

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constant use. The nests are then visited by the female - I can’t help imagining her scornful eye as she inspects - before she chooses the best one. His song is truly prodigious and in ideal conditions can be heard half a mile away. In cold spells wrens roost together for warmth, the most remarkable gathering, according to that wonderful book, Birds Britannica, is 60 wrens in one bird box! To give our local wrens a treat you can turn your compost heap and top with a sprinkle of finely grated cheese. Christmas cheer to all!

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

A new pathway to preventing and recovering from homelessness

A NEW partnership aimed at providing better and more consistent support services for homeless people in Bristol launched on November 14 at Bristol City Council. Partners from St Mungo’s, Second Step, The Salvation Army, ARA and other agencies who work with the homeless came together to mark the start of new way of working called the Bristol Pathway. These are services for people who need support to help them recover from homelessness and whichever factors contributed to them becoming homeless. For many people this may include past trauma, poverty, mental ill health, addiction, offending and sex work. Most people become homeless following eviction from private rented accommodation or following a relationship breakdown with family. The £5.3 million per year service commissioned by Bristol City Council will consist of four pathways to recovery. There is men only accommodation led by The Salvation Army, mixed accommodation led by Second Step, women only accommodation led by St Mungo’s and substance misuse Housing led by ARA. Helen Denyer, St Mungo’s regional head, said: “We are excited to be working together

One of three contactless donation stations for Bristol Night Shelters

Left to right are Graham England, of ARA, Sarah Minns, of Second Step, Councillor Paul Smith, Tom Rhodes, of Bristol City Council, Mark Banfield, of Salvation Army, and Helen Denyer, of St Mungo’s with our partners to provide high quality services to women. It important that we offer our women a service that recognises the unique experience of women who are homeless, and supports them to rebuild their lives, overcoming the challenges they face to be successful in their recovery.” These services are divided into levels of support, ranging from L1 – high support with 24 hour staffing to L4 – low support for people preparing to live independently. Referrals are made into the accommodation appropriate to the needs of the individual. As people recover from homelessness they move down to the appropriate level(s) before moving out to settled accommodation, with a period of support to help make this successful. As someone enters the pathway, there will be a robust, strengths based assessment of that person’s needs and aspirations, with every person having a tailored plan for their ‘journey’ of recovery away from homelessness. Strength based means looking at the positive tools a client may have to help their recovery instead of focusing on their risks. Moving from one service to another will be fluid, a

decision taken by the pathway partnership together rather than by individual providers, giving a much smoother transition for the person. Councillor Paul Smith said: “We have taken a new approach to funding these services, building on the relationships between organisations and asking them to share responsibility for helping people

to achieve their aspirations and recover from homelessness. “At a time when affordable housing in Bristol is very difficult to access, it is vital that services are better matched to people's needs and that we are doing all we can to encourage independence for residents, enabling them to move more quickly into mainstream housing as their support needs are met.”

How to help someone who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless IF you are concerned about someone who is rough sleeping ANYONE can make a street referral via Streetlink. org.uk giving the following information: • T he rough sleeper’s name (if known) • Physical description • Any distinguishing characteristics (e.g. colour of distinctive clothing/ possessions/sleeping bag or distinctive accent) • Specific location where the person is sleeping

• Time they were seen Looking out for friends or family who are at risk of losing their homes is important too. If debt, tenancy and relationship issues are taken seriously and action taken early on, reaching crisis point can be avoided. There is good advice and guidance available online: CAB, BCC, MA. There are also advice and support services available in Bristol: ACFA, ACORN and Relate.

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n ON THE BEAT

News from the local policing team with PCSO David Said

E have recently seen an increase of motor scooters being stolen, with four scooters taken in the last fortnight. Three of them were found damaged close by. I would urge any scooter owners to be extra vigilant and

make sure their bikes are secured properly, in light of these recent thefts. Lock your scooter to something immovable like railings, lamp posts or a bike post. Keep chains as tight to the machine as possible and try to ensure they are off the ground. Park your scooter where it can be seen, not tucked away in the corner of a dark car park. At home, always lock you scooter and use a cover if it’s kept outside. If you can, keep your scooter in an alarmed secure garage. As part of our work to reduce burglary, I have managed to get some timer switches which are used to turn lights on when people are out. At this time of year it gets dark early, and this can be an opportunity for burglars to see if people are at home or not. I will be giving out some switches out to our neighbourhood watch coordinators, who will ensure they are distributed fairly. We have been working closely with neighbourhood watch

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members over the last couple of weeks and have been given some information about possible drug dealing in the area. We are hoping to make some arrests in relation to this in the coming weeks. This week I was able to join a new community speed watch group following interest from residents around Ralph Road. Vehicles were speed checked going up towards Ashley Down Road and back towards Muller Road. Drivers seemed to speed up as they went uphill and then slowed when they saw us. However, the speed limit was for the most part observed. This could have been down to the levels of traffic at the time. We still receive many complaints about drivers during school pick up / drop off times in the area. This includes parents parking across drives and inconsiderate driving. We will include all the primary schools in the area in our winter patrol plan and hope to address some of the issues raised. Finally, I recently had a meeting

with one of the sports leads at the City of Bristol College on Ashley Down Road. They are trying to encourage more students to cycle to college and we are looking at ways to help keep their bikes safe when not being used, as well as to encourage responsible cycling when they are on the roads. We will be holding bike events and talks with the students next term in support of this. At this time of year, it’s always worth mentioning the need for cyclists to have lights on their bikes. If you cycle in the dark with no lights, you are putting yourself at risk, even more so if you wear dark clothing. Please make sure bike is properly fitted with lights, to ensure your safety as well as that of other road users. May I take this chance on behalf of the Bishopston neighbourhood policing team, to wish you a safe, crime free and happy Christmas. PCSO David Said

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r! e Start Bristol, you’ll be a When you volunteer for Hom m get back on their feet the lifeline for a family: helping to cope in the future. d nee and develop the skills they dent registered charity Home Start Bristol is an indepen at least one child under with supporting struggling families them with local families.

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bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n SPORT

Gloucestershire Cricket to host World Cup winners in Bristol next summer AS the women’s Ashes builds towards an exciting climax, the England and Wales Cricket Board today announced the summer 2018 international fixtures for the England women’s team. There’s good news for the The Brightside Ground as the World Cup winners will play at Gloucestershire County Cricket’s site in Bishopston on Thursday 28 June, as part of an IT20 TriSeries. One year on from lifting the trophy on an historic day in front of a packed house at Lord’s, England will face World Cup semi-finalists South Africa before taking on long-time rivals New Zealand. For the IT20 Tri-Series, The Brightside Ground and The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton, will host double-header match-days with South Africa facing New Zealand then England on June 20, England against South Africa and New Zealand on June 23, and New Zealand against South

Africa and England on June 28. Both ODI series will see crucial ICC Women’s Championship points up for grabs while the IT20 Tri-Series takes on extra importance ahead of the ICC Women's World Twenty20, to be played in the West Indies in November 2018. Those not in attendance will still be able to follow the team over the summer with every ball of

every game broadcast live on Sky Sports and via BBC Radio. Players from all three sides will then turn their attentions to the expanded Kia Super League which will wrap up the summer in August. The tournament is doubling in length after the success of the first two years. Looking ahead to the summer Clare Connor, ECB Director of Women’s Cricket said:

“We are very excited to be staging two different series against high class opposition next summer with an expanded fixture list reflecting increased spectator interest in watching the England women’s team in action. “Last summer’s World Cup success must be the watershed moment for our game that everyone is saying it could be. We will measure that through on-pitch performances, ticket sales, numbers of viewers and listeners and our ability to attract new fans and participants. “The 2018 schedule is an exciting one across both white ball formats and will ensure that more people around the country have the chance to watch the team. “Both South Africa and New Zealand will be tough tests for England and we can expect a competitive and exciting summer of cricket ahead in both formats.” Tickets for international games and KSL Finals Day will be on sale from Tuesday 12 December.

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Cameron Lee Carpets: We've got your winter home improvements covered

AT Cameron Lee Carpets, rest assured we can help you with all of your home improvements in time for Christmas. With 50 years of quality service, we have established ourselves as the benchmark in high-quality carpets and floor laying in Bristol. We supply ranges from the UK’s leading carpet manufacturers to suit all types of room and property. From wool, easy care, woven, sisal and striped carpet to luxury floor tiles - we have it all at unbeatable prices. We pride ourselves on our customer service, and offer a free home visit where we will measure your areas and provide a free, no obligation quotation. Our team of highly skilled,

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Why not keep warm this Christmas with a brand-new wool carpet? With a wide range of samples available, pop into your nearest showroom, and speak to one of our friendly, experienced home consultants. Remember, a carpet is for life… not just for Christmas! Visit your nearest showroom: 42 The Mall, Clifton Village, Bristol BS8 4JG | Tel: 0117 914 7575 91 Henleaze Road, Bristol BS9 4JP Tel: 0117 942 0984 sales@cameronleecarpets.co.uk www.cameronlee.co.uk Instagram: @cameronleecarpets Twitter: @CameronCarpets Facebook: @CameronLeeCarpets

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n INSIDE OUT BRISTOL is known for its green credentials, so we don't want our Christmas interiors to let us down. Christmas and sustainability are not likely bedfellows but there are plenty of ways to decorate without costing the earth. Paper remains my favourite material for festive folderol. It is so versatile, available in every colour, texture, pattern and finish imaginable, and the sculptural possibilities are endless. From the simplest paper chain to the most complex origami stars and filigree-like cutouts, there are a million and one ways with paper in both DIY and off-the-shelf options. Vintage decorations that can be reused for as long as they are carefully handled and stowed win maximum green Christmas points, as do homemade dough doodahs and even the metal shape cutters for a bit of shine. Nature’s trimmings, literally, provide the best trimmings swagging over mantles and bannisters. For the traditionalists only a Christmas tree will do, but bear in mind that artificial trees are a no-no unless they are old and getting a lot of repeat use. The oldest of these can be made from questionable and toxic materials though. If the idea of chopping down living trees year seems daft, you might like to hire a potted one. The Bristol Bike Project and Cotswold Fir are offering a selection of live trees for pedal powered delivery or collection from Hamilton House on Stokes Croft, daily between 1st and 23rd December. Simply log on to www.rentalclaus.com to book. Merry Christmas! www.zoehewettinteriors.co.uk

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

n PROPERTY

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017

bishopstonvoice

LOCAL SERVICES To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. AERIAL SPECIALISTS

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

bishopstonvoice

December, 2017 ELECTRICAL SERVICES

PAINTING & DECORATING

Stephen Carter Painter & Decorator

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