Bishopston Voice July 2021 by Emma Cooper

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July, 2021 Issue 102

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£80m scheme for retirement community ... PROPOSALS for a large assisted living development in the grounds of the former St Christopher's School have been welcomed by Westbury Park Community Association. The new owners of the five acre site facing The Downs plan to spend up to £80 million creating what they describe as the first of a new generation of ultra-sustainable later living developments. The aim is to set up a community for people in their

early retirement but otherwise active. The owners are a Joint Venture Partnership between Amicala (extra care housing providers) and FORE (ethical investment company). The project is being delivered by developers First Base. The community association welcomes the scheme and says it aims to to work closely with the developers to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome. Report: Page 5

... but another No to care home extension A SECOND attempt by Meadowcare Home to add extra rooms to Glenview Nursing Home in Redland has been turned down. The latest application, to add 14 beds to the 40-bed dementia facility in Belvedere Road, was unanimously rejected by a city council planning committee after a previous proposal for 17 extra beds was also refused in a decision that was backed at appeal. Report: Page 4

Off to Tokyo! Teenagers Kate Shortman and Izzy Thorpe are set to take their duet synchronised swim to the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Lockdown has made it a challenging journey for Clifton High School pupils to take part in qualifying competitions but their passion and dedication to the sport has secured their place in Team GB. Report: Page 19

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bishopstonvoice

n NEWS Sarah Chope, co-owner of Oddsox Shoes

July, 2021

Where's it to? Video GLOUCESTER Road is highlighted in a campaign encouraging Bristolians to explore their local high street and get to know the traders behind the businesses. Bristol’s high streets are some of the most diverse, independent and original in the world and Where’s it to? invites Bristol communities to get to know their local shops and hospitality establishments and the characters who run them. Fifteen high streets across the city are being profiled, highlighting numerous traders on each street, which span from stores passed through generations of a family, through to brand new openings inspired by the pandemic. Street artist Inkie invites you to explore the Gloucester Road through a short documentary film and some of his favourite places, capturing this moment in time as the city reopens. Inkie explains: “On

bishopstonvoice Bishopstonvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

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

Sue Thomas News Editor

07976 706120 news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

Erica Benson

Advertising Sales 0117 908 2121 sales@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

August deadline

Gloucester Road, everywhere you look there's something completely different, there's no chain stores and that makes a refreshing change from most of the high streets in England. We've got the longest stretch of independent shops in Europe, and obviously great street art. The Grace is one of my favourite watering holes. Gloucester Road is great for pubs and restaurants. The Galli, The Royal Oak and the Wellington and slightly off track on Ashley Down the Lazy Dog. You can't move for great places. Make sure you go and find Mike in Dalton's Butchers, the place

Useful numbers Bristol City Council 0117 922 2000 Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252 We are Bristol helpline Freephone 0800 694 0184 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm Weekends 10am-2pm

Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bishopston Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. A member of the

Our August deadline is July 21. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by this date. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Bishopston Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Bishopston Voice is distributed each month to Bishopston residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. This month 10,700 copies copies will be distributed around Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews.

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

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

aims to boost trade that really kept me alive during lockdown. Sarah at Room 212 has a great local gallery selling some of my stuff and loads of local artists.” Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees says: “This campaign celebrates the unique character of each Bristol high street, while recognising the contribution to the city as a whole. After a challenging year, we want to promote our shopkeepers, restaurateurs and businesses, as they have been critical to morale during the pandemic. “Many of us have been shopping more on our local high streets and we really want to encourage more of this as we begin to recover from the pandemic. We are inviting Bristolians to shop locally, stay safe and take care of each other.” Gloucester Road’s film features The Grace, Spanish specialists El Colmado, Wild Leaf, Futureleap, Area 51 and

art gallery Room 212 and M.J. Dalton Butchers. The website features 15 traders and the stories behind some of the area’s favourite stores and hospitality establishments. Sarah Morrison, project lead, explained: “Where’s it to? was selected as the name of the campaign to reflect our city’s language and in collaboration with a huge range of traders from across the 15 high streets. It’s our unique way of demonstrating where something is to a visitor, and perfectly reflects this guide to hidden gems on our high streets.” Where’s it to? was created by Bristol City Council and delivered through the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund to support the safe reopening and recovery of the High Streets following Covid-19 restrictions. The 15 High Streets were selected to give a flavour of the diversity and types of centres across the city.

Mike Dalton and Rob Fletcher from M J Dalton Butchers

BCR public forum online THE Bishopston, Cotham and Redland (BCR) Community partnership meeting was due to take place online on Monday 28 June from 7.30pm - 9pm. The society welcomes everyone to join the meeting to hear reports from local community groups and to discuss topics of local interest with our councillors. On the agenda are updates from BCR partner community groups and from local Councillors. Most of the Councillors who were newly elected in May plan to attend and will have the opportunity to introduce themselves at the meeting. There will also be an update on the projects that have been proposed for Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding in 2021. If you would like to attend the meeting via Zoom, please register in advance using this Eventbrite link at no cost: Eventbrite: BCR CP Public Forum - 28 June 2021 Zoom details will be sent on the day of the meeting to all those who register in advance.

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July, 2021

n NEWS

Care home extension refused over road safety fears SCALED-back plans to extend a Bristol care home have been refused after more than 100 residents objected, saying it would make the road even more dangerous. It is the second time Meadowcare Homes has sought permission to add extra rooms to Glenview Nursing Home in Redland and been rebuffed by a city council planning committee. The latest application, to add 14 beds to the 40-bed dementia facility in Belvedere Road, was unanimously rejected by councillors on June 9 after a previous proposal for 17 extra beds was also refused in a decision that was backed at appeal. The street is home to three care homes, two of which are owned by Meadowcare. It lies just outside a residential parking zone. Residents told councillors road safety was already a “huge” problem because of the number of vehicles associated with the care homes and that it takes about “10 to 20 minutes” to find a parking space. They said the existing parking and traffic problems caused “a lot of aggressive driving” and would result in an accident if nothing was done about it. An agent for Meadowcare Homes said two new service bays proposed for Belvedere

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Road as part of the application would “resolve the problems”. But a council officer said the service bays would mean the loss of four parking spaces in an area that was already “oversubscribed”, and recommended the application for refusal. He said: “The proposed development would result in an increased demand for onstreet car parking in an area which is already oversubscribed and that would lead to congestion and conflict between road users, and that would result in harm to highway safety.” Some 112 people objected to the application while 109 wrote in support. The meeting heard that, if the Glenview extension went ahead, six of the 21 buildings on Belvedere Road would be used as care

homes and the street would be home to 108 patients compared with an estimated 90 residents. Two members of the public who spoke in support of the application said care homes ought to be supported and not “viewed as a stigma”. Opponents asked councillors to reject the application for the same three reasons they refused the first application in May last year: parking and traffic problems, noise and disturbance, and an “overconcentration” of care homes on the street. But the planning officer noted the only valid reason for refusal, according to the government inspector who dismissed Meadowcare’s appeal in March, was traffic and parking. Two planning committee members expressed some qualms about rejecting plans for much-needed dementia beds on that basis, as Bristol has “too many cars” and it could set a “precedent”. But others thought the extension was a “step too far” in terms of road safety. Cllr Fabian Breckels said: “This is an area where somebody could get killed if we allow the highway situation there where there’s already a problem to actually get worse.”

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July, 2021

n NEWS THE grounds of the former St Christopher’s School at Westbury Park have been sold. The new owners of the fiveacre site which faces the Downs are a Joint Venture Partnership between Amicala (extra care housing providers) and FORE (ethical investment company). The proposal is to build a community for people in their early retirement but otherwise active. The project is being delivered by developers First Base. The site comprises around 93,000 sq ft of buildings, including the Grade-II listed Grace House. Investment of up to £80 million is proposed for the first of a new generation of ultra-sustainable later living developments. The Westbury Park Community Association (WPCA) believes the sale of the former St Christopher’s School site brings fresh hope of blending development and community aims. “We regard the sale of the site by Aurora to a joint venture partnership as very good news,” says the Association’s planning adviser Jeff Bishop. “Our focus is now to identify the hopes and concerns of immediate neighbours and the wider community, and to work closely with the developers to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.” The process got off to a positive start with a site meeting on May 26 when Henry Lumby, chief development officer of care providers Amicala, told the WPCA that they want their developments to be seen as an extension of the local community. Amicala’s proposed development in Westbury

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Grade-II listed Grace House will retained and may become a communal facility Park, in conjunction with their partners FORE Partnership, would not be a care home or gated community but an extra care community which supports residents as their needs change over time, allowing them to maintain their independence, he said. Mr Lumby was joined at the meeting by Liam Ronan-Chlond, head of engagement and social value for developers First Base, and other colleagues. Provisional concepts for the potential redevelopment of the site, explained to the WPCA, include: • Conversion of the lodges on Westbury Park (facing the Downs) to apartments, retaining trees and gardens at the front • New apartments and houses to the rear of the lodges and on part of the back land • The retention of Grace House which will be used to house communal facilities • The possible retention and

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use of other buildings on the back land – also for communal facilities. Amicala hope to complete the development in 2024. Stages along the way would include the drafting of a masterplan by autumn 2021 leading to a full planning application to Bristol

City Council at the end of this year. One idea voiced at the meeting was to have an open event or two at St Christopher’s, giving people an opportunity to look around the extensive site and share views and ideas about the emerging overall proposals. “Currently much of the site is not visible or accessible from outside,” added Jeff Bishop. “It would be very helpful now to give people an opportunity to look around and learn more about the proposed development and help spread the word. “And around the same time the developers, with advice from the WPCA, will be asking all Community Association members and other residents in the area for their views on the plans as well as involving other local interest groups.”

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MBST Bristol: Real results in real people MBST: an award-winning innovation designed to manage long-term injury, osteoarthritis and elite sports injuries.

James Scrimshaw and Jonathan Webb (Consultant Knee Surgeon) at Cura’s MBST Clinic in Westbury-on-Trym

MBST is a therapeutic adaptation of MRI used to treat osteoarthritis and soft tissue damage. Unlike an MRI, MBST doesn’t create an image but it does use the same energy to stimulate a significant repair response in damaged tissue and joints. Here at Cura’s Westbury-on-Trym Clinic here in Bristol, over 90% of the patients we’ve treated have improved levels of pain, joint mobility and stability. Our patients range in age from 21 (generally with trauma or sports injuries) to those in their 80s. Many patients have osteoarthritic change in necks, backs, hips, knee or ankle joints. Most often, these patients are not yet ready for surgery but are suffering with mild to moderate stage of joint damage and some considerable pain. For this group, the results from MBST treatment really are extremely impressive. Here are a couple of examples of the patients Cura’s Clinical Director, James Scrimshaw, has treated with MBST: Janet (64) had been suffering with severe pain in her left knee for years. She found it difficult to walk on rough ground and experienced aches at night Osteoarthritis

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and stiffness after sitting. Her surgeon said she was a year off having a replacement knee but suggested that she used the arthritic joint as much as she could. He also recommended a course of MBST. Two and a half years after treatment, Janet is now in no significant pain and her mobility has sustainably improved. Janet was so happy with her outcomes that she also went on to use MBST on her right hip. This has responded equally well. Marlene (80+) has suffered with chronic neck and back pain for years. Over that time, we used chiropractic treatment but her condition began to deteriorate and hands-on treatment became less effective over time. We decided to use MBST to treat her spinal osteoarthritis and as a result, Marlene’s condition is transformed! She’s pain free and hasn’t needed as much ongoing hands-on treatment. She’s also just finished a course on her knees to help with mild to moderate joint changes to which she’s responded really well. MBST isn’t just used for patients with arthritis. We’ve recently had the pleasure of working with professional sports teams such as the Bristol Bears, and have treated some of their elite squad. While the majority of cases we treat have really good outcomes, as with most medical procedures, not all cases respond as well due to severity and complexity. Whilst we love to sing about our successes, we’ll always give a realistic appraisal of the most likely outcome. To speak to us about your treatment, call Cura Clinical on 0117 959 6531. MBST can’t make you 21 again but it can stimulate a healing process that can significantly improve the condition of damaged joints and tissues.

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July, 2021

n NEWS

bishopstonvoice

Electric vehicle charge points installed at leisure centres in bid to go greener

VISITORS to three of Bristol’s leisure centres will now be able to charge their electric vehicles while they work out – keeping both themselves and the planet healthy. The chargers at Horfield, Easton and Kingsdown Leisure Centres will be available for use by the general public, as well as leisure centre customers. This will be particularly useful for people who live nearby and are not able to charge an electric car at home. Bristol City Council has been working with leisure centre partner Everyone Active to install a mixture of rapid (50kW) and fast (7-22kW) charge points as part of the Revive public charging network. A rapid charger will average 20-25kWh of charge in 30 minutes, allowing a car to travel up to 90 miles. It would take around 200 people riding exercise bikes to generate the same amount of electricity in half an hour. EV charge points are one of the many things the council is doing to help residents reduce their impact on the climate and air pollution by switching to electric vehicles. To use the charge points, users can sign up to

Revive at www.revivecharging.net. Councillor Nicola Beech, cabinet member with responsibility for climate, ecology, waste and energy, said: “Bristol is already leading in many aspects of sustainable transport and this includes the shift from polluting diesel and petrol cars to clean electric ones. “Electric cars are becoming much more popular with many more people buying them new or second hand. We are making this easier by expanding our popular charge point network to provide convenient charging facilities for more people. “Switching from a petrol or diesel car to an electric one will help us reduce harmful air pollution in Bristol and reduce emissions which cause climate change. Alongside walking, cycling and public transport electric cars will be an important part of how we reduce our transport emissions.” Gary Teagle, contract manager at Everyone Active in Bristol, said: “We are proud to support the council in their mission to create cleaner air with the installation of electric vehicle charging points at some of our leisure centres across the city.

“Having these charging points at our centres offers the perfect opportunity to combine a 30 minute rapid car charge with a 30 minute workout session in the leisure centre, so users can take care of both themselves and the planet at the same time.” Installed as part of the Go Ultra Low West (GULW) project, funded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), Bristol City Council has now installed 30 of the planned 50 fast and rapid public charging bays in convenient locations across the city. To find out more about where new charge points are going, including where charge points have been switched over from the previous Source West vehicle charging network, drivers can head to Travelwest. The council is also offering residents the opportunity to suggest where they would like to see more charge points, including residential locations, as it plans for a future expansion of Revive. Residents can fill in their suggestions via a form on Travelwest which also includes a map of where people have already suggested new sites.

Lack of parking regulation forces pedestrians into road LAST month the Bishopston Voice reported on the measures the St Andrews Traffic and Parking Group (BOSA) are taking to highlight traffic and parking issues in their area. The group took their fight about unregulated parking in Bishopston, St Andrews and Ashley Down to their streets during the election campaign, making highly visible protests about the blocking of pavements by inconsiderate drivers and the lack of enforcement of local parking regulations. More examples of poor parking are being identified in Redland ward, as shown by this image sent in by a reader, where a parked car

blocks the pavement as it protrudes from the drive. Poor parking on pavements and the corner of streets - by residents and visitors - causes a safety issue for pedestrians, forcing the elderly, children and parents with buggies to walk in the road rather than have access to the pavement. The photographer said: “I have recently seen parking wardens walk straight past cars parked like this on our road, so clearly they are being briefed to ignore the issue rather than enforce the law. Perhaps the issue is more widespread than the council realises.”

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

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

nN EWS FROM OUR MP

So much more to do to tackle racism An appropriate place for a slave trader’s statue

Where is the Prime Minister’s plan for social care?

One year on from the statue of slavetrader Edward Colston being pulled down and thrown into the harbour, the damaged monument is now on display in Bristol’s M Shed. I appreciate the exhibition of the statue in its damaged state, alongside other objects marking the protests that led to its removal. This, too, is an important part of our history. Over the last year I have been working with a lot of local groups, activists and businesses, discussing practical ways we can make Bristol a more equal place. There are a lot of inspiring things going on in our city, but racism is still entrenched in our society. In years to come, I hope we look back and see the (longoverdue) removal of Colston’s name from city landmarks as something which led to much wider change.

To mark Dementia Action Week (1723 May), I met several constituents with dementia and their families. I also had a separate meeting with scientists and researchers from the University of Bristol looking into this cruel illness. It was desperately sad to see how the disease affects families – but I came away feeling hopeful that there is real progress being made in early stage treatment. The government could – and should – be doing more to help people with dementia. I challenged Jacob Rees-Mogg on this topic in my slot as Shadow Leader of the House. In response, he said the government's promised plan would come this year. I’ll hold him to this. We need a more caring foreign policy The recent conflict in Israel and Gaza

was just the latest reminder of why we should be much more careful about where we export weapons. Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories are on the Foreign Office’s ‘Human Rights Priority List’, where there are particular concerns about human rights – but we continue to sell weapons to many of these countries. I recently wrote to government ministers asking them to explain this policy, which risks making the UK complicit in human rights abuses, killings and repression. You may also have seen that the UK has slashed its overseas aid budget, going against international commitments, UK law and the Conservatives’ own manifesto. I wrote to the Foreign Secretary on behalf of Bristol West-based organisations now being forced to cut back lifesaving work in international development. Labour will push to ensure overseas aid is reinstated.

Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice

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July, 2021

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

AMD Solicitors welcome Kate Walsgrove to their growing private client team KATE qualified as a solicitor also served as legal counsel to specialising in Wills, Trusts, the trustees of a Surrey-based E: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk July, Estate 2014 Administration and care home, helping them follow us on Twitter @bishopstonvoice Lasting Powers of Attorney in navigate a range of legal issues 2016 at Legal 500 firm in Surrey. where required. Kate has previously been After qualification as a solicitor, Kate went on to complete a interviewed on BBC Radio Kent, Society of Trusts and Estates and the topics of discussion Practitioners (“STEP”) diploma included: why to make a Will, in Estate Administration. leaving legacies for care of an STEP is an internationally animal and claims against an How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax recognised qualification, and estate. Kate is also a member its practitioners are willknown be. However a Will can be for the distribution of the estate, members of the Society of Trust of that Solicitors the Elderly, to demonstrate the worded highest to provide a gift of forand the estate can then be and Estate Practitioners, the 10 % of the value of your estate as if theto Will had been leading professional body in a specialist groupdivided of lawyers standards of knowledge and that time is given to a charity madeolder in theseand terms. A Deed of this field. We offer a free initial support and advise best practice when at advising or charities of your choice. The Variation could therefore provide consultation for new clients. vulnerable people. families across generations. Kate effect of this will be that the rate that 10 % of the estate is to pass For advice on administration on the her to a chosen charity or charities, Following relocation completed the diplomaofinInheritance 2019, Tax payable of estates, trusts, wills, powers experienced private client on issues such as lifetime tax reduced from 40 making the estate whole of attorney and all private client Bristol, in 2021 Kate was as aplanning, achieving a distinction. whole estate isto services for AMD clients”. Will making and % to 36 %. eligible for the reduced rate of issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, appointedit as secretary ofTax. the Lasting Powers In 2020 Kate was awarded In same circumstances, Inheritance of Attorney. Florence Pearce and the other Kate will be based at our has been that this Bristol branch of STEP. a STEP Excellence Award. Thiscalculated members of the team on particular area of0117offices at 100 Henleaze Road This change in the law Kate’s is reduction in the tax bill can serve email probate@ Kate now lives and award recognises the highest clearly veryworks good newsinterest both is 9621205, administration ofin but will be able to meet clients to leave the estate, even after amdsolicitors.com or call and potentially for is charities, passionate achievers across allpayment STEPof thein gift Henleaze to charity, and for complex estates andMall trusts. at 15 The Clifton, or 100 throughout our 4 offices. some estates as well. However high as if making the high quality, qualifications globally. with a value asabout Henleaze Henleaze. By Shelley For advice on the McCall, RoadDirector the detail of the applicationGrant can had not been made. Thus affordable legal advice Whilst working in giftSurrey, be complex. For example, the AMD Solicitors takes in of estates and welcomed Kate to AMD byprideadministration the gift can in some cases quite Faulkner, estate is divided local, Bristol based to everyone in herinto different Kate was appointed as Secretary literally pay for accessible itself. saying: “Wesponsoring are delighted tovery trusts and other private client ‘components’ depending on charities and this year is solicitor withSurrey Lawyers, In the past, she of Young a local Even where a Willcommunity. has not welcome Kate. additionthe matters, please contact Kate or how the property will pass to pleasedThe to be supporting been prepared in these terms, been involvedthe in abenefi number ofin order of the Law Society, and has ciaries, to Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s AMDdivision Solicitors any other member of our team of Kate’s expertise to our team it maytalks be possible to take calculateprovide whether the 10 % test Society, the local branch of this events and talks which ran a number of events and on 0117 962 1205, email info@ continues our commitment advantage of this tax break. If has been met. Taking specialist national charity which works advice to the local community to forstrengthen for junior lawyers in Surrey. Kateciaries the benefi of the estate our highly advice on the implications to improve the quality of life ofamdsolicitors.com

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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

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448. Got News? Call Rebecca On 07912 484405. Email: emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n NEWS

Bristol doctor spearheads prostate cancer initiative

MEN in Bishopston, Redland and St Andrews will soon benefit from an innovative scan that can help doctors catch and treat prostate cancer that returns after initial treatment much earlier, thanks to an initiative from a leading local oncologist. As part of his new role as a Prostate Cancer UK clinical champion, Dr Amarnath Challapalli, consultant clinical oncologist at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, is leading a project to improve access to PSMA PET scans across the region. These scans detect radiation given off by a radioactive dye which is injected into the blood stream and collects in areas where prostate cancer may have spread. They can spot recurrent cancer at an earlier stage than other scans, so are particularly useful for men who have already been treated for prostate cancer but are at high risk of the disease returning. Dr Challapalli is one of 22 healthcare professionals chosen to be part of Prostate other scans would have detected it. This Cancer UK’s inaugural clinical champions means we can start their next treatment programme. Over the next 18 months, the sooner and give men the best chance of a charity will support each champion to lead a potential cure.” project that will improve prostate cancer care PSMA PET scans will also help identify at a local or national level. men who are suitable for a promising new Dr Challapalli said: “Unfortunately, about treatment for advanced prostate cancer a third of men will see their prostate cancer called Lutetium-177. Lutetium-177 delivers come back after surgery. The advantage of a radioactive load to prostate cancer cells by PSMA PET is that it helps us catch recurrent Winter cancer Bishopton ad.qxp_Layout 1 18/09/2020 12:41 Pagea 1protein which is found on targeting PSMA, prostate at aVoice very early stage – before

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the cells’ surface. A Phase 3 trial of this drug recently showed positive results and Prostate Cancer UK is working with stakeholders to lay the groundwork for its use in the NHS. Dr Challapalli added: “By improving access to PSMA PET across Bristol, we can make sure men will be able to benefit from this exciting new treatment as soon as it’s approved.” Amy Rylance, head of improving care at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Ongoing innovations to prostate cancer services are vital to ensure men can access the highest quality care wherever they are in the UK. That’s why we’re delighted to welcome Dr Challapalli to the clinical champions programme and support him as he drives this initiative forwards. “Widening access to innovative technologies like PSMA PET is vital if we want to give men the best chance of a good outcome. We are confident that the skills and expertise Dr Challapalli will develop over the next 18 months will help him deliver these improvements to prostate cancer care and make a real difference to men in Bristol.”

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Round-the clock outreach service for rough sleepers to launch in autumn A NEW seven-day-a-week rough sleeping service will launch in Bristol in October. Bristol Street Outreach will engage with some of the most vulnerable people in the city who are sleeping rough in order to help them access appropriate support services and accommodation. There will be a continued focus on street engagements, particularly with those who have been sleeping rough for a long time, to help enable them to move off the streets and live independently. There will also be a more joined up approach, bringing together the key teams under one roof. This will include having a council housing advisor on hand to help people find housing, and rough sleeper navigators who will support people with

complex and overlapping needs access services and maintain accommodation when they move off the streets. The council is investing more than £1.5 million in the service,

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which will run for an initial three years. Bristol Street Outreach is part of a range of services commissioned by the council and designed to enable the city to achieve its aim of halving rough sleeping by 2022 and ending rough sleeping in Bristol by 2027. Councillor Tom Renhard, cabinet member for housing delivery and homes, said: “We have worked tirelessly alongside our partners over the last 15 months to keep people who are sleeping rough safe during the pandemic. “This has resulted in a significant reduction in the number of people sleeping rough in the city, showing the impact strong partnership approaches can have. However, we know there is still a considerable amount of work to be done to achieve our aim of ending rough sleeping by 2027 at the latest.

“Continued sustainable funding from government, and collaboration across the sector, are key to helping us realise this goal. “We hope that Street Outreach Bristol will help us to reach out to the most vulnerable people on our streets, and be there for them when they are ready for help.” The Street Outreach Service replaces the current Rough Sleeper Service, and will be run by homelessness charity St Mungo’s. David Ingerslev, St Mungo’s regional head for Bristol, said: “We are delighted to build on the hard work of the last 12 years supporting people sleeping rough in Bristol with the announcement that we will be continuing to provide the Street Outreach service for Bristol City Council. “Our team will continue to work around the clock on the streets of Bristol to build relationships with people who are sleeping rough, supporting them to find the quickest and most appropriate route away from homelessness into long term accommodation. “We know that this cannot be done in isolation. We will be continuing to work closely with physical and mental health services, drug and alcohol support and other homelessness organisations in the city to make sure that everyone who is on the streets can access the right support package for them, so that they can look to the future and rebuild their lives.”

Corks pop as proposed drinking ban is paused A DAY after going live with a consultation on plans to restrict gatherings and drinking in St Andrew’s Park, Bristol City Council removed it from the website. A public space protection order (PSPO) consultation asked for feedback on a range of restrictions that could be imposed within the park including restricting group gatherings of more than three people between 9pm and 8am, a ban on alcohol in the park and the prohibition of anyone causing unreasonable levels of noise. Bristol City Council has confirmed that the consultation was launched in error and without officers seeking input from members of the administration.

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July, 2021

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Cystic Fibrosis dad, 50, tackles charity ride A 50-YEAR-OLD Bishopston Dad is set to become the oldest person with Cystic Fibrosis to tackle the UK’s greatest cycle challenge. This month, Stuart Priscott will become the oldest person living with Cystic Fibrosis to complete the John O’ Groats to Lands End (JOGLE) bike ride. Setting off 11 days after turning 50, he and two friends – Matt Theedom and Scott Chappell – will cycle the 874 miles to Lands End with the aim of raising £50,000 on behalf of two charities: The Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Chance to Shine, an organisation that promotes cricket in schools and communities. The three cyclists, who all work within cricket in the south west of England, have come together to honour the memory of Stuart’s sister, Jo, another CF sufferer, who died in late 2018 aged 50. Stuart, who lives in Bishopston, and is a father of two girls, said: “This is a challenge PROPOSALS to change the way hospital stroke services are organised and delivered in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire are being put to the public, after the local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) made the decision to progress to public consultation. The proposals for change – put together by a diverse range of people, including senior clinicians, staff and stroke survivors – are designed to ensure fewer stroke deaths every year and improve long-term health outcomes. Around five people a day experience a stroke in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, and 1 in 50 of the total population live with the condition’s long-term impacts. Drawing on the latest national clinical evidence, proposed changes include the creation of a single ‘Hyper-acute Stroke Unit’ at Bristol’s Southmead Hospital, bringing the area’s clinical expertise and specialist resources into one ‘centre of excellence’ as currently exists for heart care and major trauma. Anyone in the area who experiences a stroke would be

unthinkable for most of my life. Over the past 50 years I have benefited from amazing medical research and discoveries, excellent health care from the NHS and supportive family and friends. I have experienced first-hand how new drugs and treatments can transform people’s lives. “Jo was a kind, loving and inspirational sister and friend. As a family we were devastated by her death, which felt untimely so soon after a lung transplant she

had waited so long for. It is the way in which she led her life with such passion and vigour that has driven me to take this challenge in my 50th year. Explaining why he is raising money for the two charities, he continued: “In learning to live with CF I have realised it is not enough to be alive – life is for living and everyone needs a purpose. I was lucky from an early age that I found cricket as an outlet to stay active, meet people and develop friendships,

and strive to achieve. In my role at Chance to Shine, I see up close the positive impact sport can have on young people and the way it can be the spur to unlock potential.” The JOGLE challenge is all the more remarkable for the fact that Stuart did not own a bike until his 49th birthday, when, wanting to give himself the best chance of staying well during the Covid outbreak, he embarked on a new fitness regime. After a long career in cricket coaching and administration – which also included two years as a professional player with Somerset County Cricket Club – he is set to tackle the hardest physical challenge of his life. Joining Stuart, Matt and Scott on the trip will be colleagues, family and friends, helping to raise money so others can benefit from improved medicines and sporting opportunities. To read Stuart’s story and to donate please visit https:// uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ StuartPriscott

Give your views on changes to hospital stroke services taken straight to Southmead Hospital by ambulance for emergency stroke care, rather than to their nearest hospital as is currently the case. Travel analysis completed as part of the design phase shows Southmead as reachable from Bristol, North Somerset and south Gloucestershire locations within 45 minutes by ambulance, with 7 in 10 people just 30 minutes away. Dr Chris Burton, clinical lead for the programme, said: “We want everyone to have the best possible opportunity to survive and thrive after stroke, which is why we’re excited to test these proposals with the public. “At the moment, people’s outcomes and experience vary depending on where they live and the time of day or night they have a stroke. "Our proposals are designed to change that and ensure consistently high-quality

emergency care for everyone - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “Clinical evidence and service change examples from across the country show that when you bring specialist staff, equipment and resources together into a single centre like this, deaths are prevented and people’s long term outcomes are improved. “We really want to hear what people think, and encourage everyone to have their say on the proposals during the consultation period.” Key changes are also being proposed to ongoing hospital care after the emergency treatment phase, and live-in rehabilitation support. For patients requiring further hospital care, the preferred option is for a single specialist stroke unit at Southmead, although the option of an additional smaller unit at the Bristol Royal Infirmary has also been put forward.

Proposed changes to live-in rehabilitation services would see two specialist units provided – one on the Weston General Hospital site in North Somerset, and another in either Bristol or South Gloucestershire. Dr Jon Hayes, clinical chair of the CCG, said: “Stroke touches so many lives, so it’s great to be at the point of consulting with the public on changes designed to improve care and outcomes. “We want to hear from as many people across the area as possible, and there will be a range of events taking place during the consultation period, with full details on how you can have your say.” The consultation is live and will run for 13 weeks, closing at 12pm on Friday 3 September. All the consultation information will be hosted at https:// bnssghealthiertogether.org.uk/ stroke-services/.

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July, 2021

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n EDUCATION

Primary takes learning outdoors for summer ST Bonaventure’s Catholic Primary School in Bishopston has built a ‘pop up’ garden in its school in June and is taking learning outside for the rest of the summer term. The garden has been built by teachers and parents on the school site using reusable plant containers and straw bales for seating. Throughout the summer term, lessons will take place in the garden where pupils will be surrounded by flowers, fruit and vegetables as they learn. The children will also be tending to the garden as part of this term’s school theme of ‘Care for our common home’. The past year has been extremely disruptive for schools everywhere. Lockdowns, home learning, bubble restrictions and uncertainty have all had an effect on the families of the St Bonaventure’s school community. “It is more important than ever that pupil and staff wellbeing underpins everything that we do in our school,” says Sarah Ballantine, Headteacher. “The Covid-19 pandemic has shown us that slowing down and spending time outdoors is so important for our mental health and wellbeing. And, it reminds us that it is the simple things in

Bristol West MP Thangam Debbonaire visits the outdoor classroom at St Bonaventure's Catholic Primary School in Bishopston life that make us happy; family, friends and the natural world around us.” “We want all our children, especially those who don’t have access to green spaces, to spend time relaxing and soaking up the sights, sounds and smells of the garden. We want them to enjoy the feeling of being outdoors where they can let their imaginations run free. Our pop up garden is a space where everyone in our school

community will be able to come and find time to connect with themselves, their community and the planet. We call this ‘triple wellbeing’ at St Bonaventure’s. These connections are fundamental for nurturing happy, confident children who are able to face the challenges of our changing world.” Through the school theme of ‘Care for our common home’, pupils will use the outdoor garden space to talk about global

and local environmental issues such as biodiversity, energy, food, water and waste. There will be storytelling, art and craft sessions and talks from Bristol Waste and local zero waste mobile shop ‘Oat Float’. Classes will also go on a journey into the future in the garden space, where they will imagine Bishopston in 2030. They will then come up with ideas and ways for the school to become more sustainable. “We want our pop up garden to be the start of our whole school journey to net zero carbon emissions by 2030 so that we can play our part in Bristol’s response to the climate emergency,” says Sarah Ballantine. The launch of the pop up garden coincided with the G7 summit, when world leaders met in Cornwall to discuss global issues. St Bonaventure’s pupils followed the climate discussions from the summit and will write to Boris Johnson and politicians, demanding that they take urgent action to protect our planet. The school wants to use the pop up garden sessions to give children a bigger voice in the climate conversation so that they can take action now on issues that will affect their future.

Community to have say on school's name COLSTON’S School has announced the launch of a survey as part of the consultation on the future of the school’s name. The school is keen to hear the views of all stakeholder groups and individuals, including staff, parents, former pupils and the wider general public. All these groups are invited to access the survey, review the resource materials available and submit their views through the school’s website www.colstons.org/nameconsultation. Current pupils will be submitting their views in a manner appropriate to their age, given that this ranges from 3 to 18. “We are very keen to

hear the views of as many people as possible to help drive the decision around the future of the school’s name,” explained Headmaster Jeremy McCullough. “We understand that there

are numerous viewpoints on this complex issue, and hope that the range of resources and research materials our pupils have had the opportunity to engage with, and that are available on the website, will

also help the community form their own thoughts and opinions.” The survey will be available until Friday 16 July. Following this, the data will be collated, verified and analysed, and then passed onto the School Governors who will meet to consider the responses in September. The Governors will then make a decision on the future of the School’s name. If you would prefer to complete a paper copy of the survey, please contact the school on 0117 965 5134 and leave your details or email via nameconsultation@colstons. org. A paper copy will be posted to you and will include a prepaid return envelope.

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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July, 2021

n EDUCATION

Deputy headteacher retires after 35 years at Redmaids' junior school MAGGIE Edbrooke, deputy headteacher at Redmaids’ High Junior School, will retire this summer after 35 years. Mrs Edbrooke (or Miss Jones as she was then) joined the Junior School in 1986 – the year it was founded – having completed a degree in Education at King Alfred’s College, Winchester. In a career spanning almost four decades Maggie has seen hundreds of girls pass through the school – many of whom have been quick to pay tribute to “a special teacher who always went the extra mile to make lessons fun.” “Joining a newly-formed school was so exciting,” explains Mrs Edbrooke. “At the time, there were just four members of staff and three classes, but we developed an exciting, bespoke curriculum and we all worked around the clock to make every lesson fun and stimulating.” “Obviously the school has grown and evolved over the years but the special ethos remains. Creating a fun, stimulating

environment that the girls feel happy in, forms the foundation of everything we do.” Paying tribute to a much-loved teacher, headteacher Mrs Brown said: “Mrs Edbrooke is not only an outstanding teacher who has impacted the lives of many girls, she is also a highly-respected colleague. “As a member of the junior school’s senior leadership team she had been instrumental in developing an outstanding, innovative curriculum for the pupils, and she has also mentored and guided many professionals within the teaching team.” “She is also great fun to be around and we will all miss her positive energy and fantastic sense of humour.” Reflecting on her time at the junior school, Mrs Edbrooke said, “My abiding memory will be of many happy days in the classroom, having fun with the girls as we learn and work together.” Right: Deputy headteacher Maggie Edbrook with Year 5 pupils

Rock climbing course offers teenagers a wealth of benefits A GROUP of students in Years 8 and 9 at local schools have been given an opportunity to develop their fitness, strength and balance, as well as other skills such as team work, focus and confidence thanks to a 10 week rock climbing programme run by Urban Uprising at The Mothership Climbing Academy in Bristol. Whilst the programme is in its early stages, the benefits are already clear to see. Year 8 student Rosie said: “I think the programme is really good for mental health and it helps get kids to try something they might never have done before. It distracts you and makes you happy in that moment which is really important. It is also really challenging and requires a lot of perseverance. I’m excited about what the next few weeks will

bring.” This feedback is reinforced and recognised on a much wider scale, as stated by the NHS: “Climbing involves concentration and thought as well as physical exercise which helps keep you focused, clears your mind of outside worries and also builds your confidence and self-esteem, alleviating the symptoms of some mental health problems.” This is especially important in light of the past year with the ups and downs the pandemic has brought; the effects on some young people have been well documented and initiatives such as these can only be a positive step forward as restrictions are easing. Nick Vines, Urban Uprising volunteer, said: "The difference between the first and second session is vast. In session one the

Rosie negotiating the rock climbing wall

kids were understandably more nervous and curious with echoes of 'can’ts' and 'impossibles' but in session two the kids were more engaged and loved the logging of each route they climbed. It was rewarding for us to see kids who didn’t succeed the first time round keep trying until

they did. This attitude is a core part of climbing and something that I personally carry with me throughout life." At the end of the 10 week course, students are expected to gain a Level 3 climbing qualification, with the option to progress further.

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July, 2021

n EDUCATION

Musical opportunity BRISTOL Plays Music is running two summer schools over the holidays where young people can play, sing and explore their creativity. These fun-packed weeks are for young people aged 9 to 13 who will be going into Year 5, 6, 7 and 8 in September 2021. Brass Band week is taking place over 26 – 30 July and for young brass musicians playing at Grade 1-5 to play, socialise and make music together. Sing the Musicals is taking place on the 2 – 6 August where young vocalists will be able to get back to singing and performing the songs they love, from modern musicals to Disney songs they will be singing and dancing their way through this fun-packed week. The only requirement for this week is enthusiasm! Held at Bristol Plays Music’s centre in Southmead, the events will include informal performances at the end of both weeks for parents and carers. Running daily from 8.45am until 3.15pm, each course costs £50 for the week. Bursaries are on offer for low income families. Find out more at bristolplaysmusic.org

Badminton celebrates BADMINTON School has gained accreditation from the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference (HMC). HMC is a professional association of heads of the world’s leading independent schools. At the heart of every HMC school is a commitment Rebecca Tear to the benefits of a holistic educational experience: academic excellence coupled with a strong emphasis on pastoral care and exceptional co-curricular opportunities. HMC is a kite mark of global quality, innovation, and excellence in education. Standards in HMC independent schools are exceptionally high and parents can be assured that they are choosing the very

best education for their child. Published examination results, league tables in national newspapers and ISI (Independent School Inspectorate) reports, all confirm the quality of education on offer. Headmistress Rebecca Tear said: “We are delighted and proud in equal measure that Badminton School has been accredited by HMC and to be joining this group of leading Independent Schools. "We look forward to working with our peers, sharing best practice, and contributing to the HMC community. "It further demonstrates our ongoing commitment to provide the best education to prepare pupils to thrive in an ever more digital and global world.”

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South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) offer a wide range of courses from Accounting to Teaching, Customer Services to Project Management, and Human Resources to Procurement. These professional qualifications are ideal for anyone already working within their chosen sector and looking to enhance their skills, or those new to the sector who wish to gain their initial qualification.

“SGS have been extremely helpful in giving me the understanding and resources needed to complete the course. I would highly recommend it.” AAT Level 4 Learner For more information visit: www.sgscol.ac.uk/study/professional-and-financial or email: professional@sgscol.ac.uk

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July, 2021

n EDUCATION

Clifton High synchronised swimmers qualify for the Tokyo Olympics SYNCHRONISED swimmers Kate Shortman and Izzy Thorpe are off to the Tokyo 2021 Olympics after a tense and fiercely competitive qualifying event in Barcelona on June 13. Out of 30 countries competing to secure an Olympic ticket, only nine remaining spaces were available for duet contestants, and with training and competitions for athletes interrupted throughout the pandemic, the qualifiers were steeped in uncertainty. However, Kate and Izzy, from Clifton High School, swam their way to placing seventh in the Free Duet final to secure a well-deserved place in Team GB. Kate said: “It’s been a long and very challenging Olympic Cycle, with qualifiers having been postponed four times since May 2020, not to mention all the uncertainty surrounding the Games itself. “It was a very tense and emotional competition… but we are ecstatic to report we have secured our Olympic Ticket. We now have a busy four weeks final preparation before we fly to Tokyo on July 19 ready to compete on the 4th and 5th August. “We would both like to send a huge thank you to the Clifton High community who guided us both through three years of A levels, and opened up invaluable pool time during the course of all this uncertainty in order to help us achieve our Olympic dream. We could not have achieved all of this without your support.” Last month Kate and Izzy also secured a number of personal-best records at the European Championships in Budapest.

Redmaids’ High student selected for Antarctic expedition REDMAIDS’ High student Madeleine Williamson has been selected as one of 90 people to join an Antarctic Expedition with Robert Swan OBE, as part of the 2041 Climate Force Foundation. The 2041 Foundation’s mission is to engage businesses and communities on climate science, personal leadership and the promotion of sustainable practices. The expedition Maddy is joining also commemorates the 200th anniversary of the human discovery of Antarctica by an Imperial Russian Navy expedition. Maddy, who is in Year 11, will be the youngest person taking

part in the ‘Leadership on the Edge’ programme, learning leadership development skills, climate change training and sustainability education which will give her a lifelong set of resources, ideas and connections. Joining the trip will be Robert Swan OBE. Swan is known for being the first person to walk the geographic north and south poles, and his 900-mile journey to the South Pole, ‘In the Footsteps of Scott,’ stands as the longest unassisted walk ever made on earth. With him will be renowned experts on glaciology, geology, oceanography and wildlife who will share their

knowledge with participants. Maddy said: "I am really looking forward to using the skills and knowledge that I develop on this trip to raise awareness of climate change and change the way people look at the environment. I’m excited to leave my comfort zone and learn leadership skills which help me educate others on climate change and see me on my way to becoming CEO of my own company." To join the expedition, Maddy must raise £12,000, which she intends to do by working with local businesses, and via sponsorship. Businesses who are

interested in sponsoring Maddy are invited to get in touch via marketing@redmaidshigh.co.uk, and the public can donate to her crowdfunder at this link https:// gofund.me/981cf031.

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July, 2021

n EDUCATION

TWO First Holy Communion Mass services were celebrated with two groups of children at St Bonaventure’s on May 22. Parish Priest Fr. Tom said: “I can’t describe how wonderful it was to celebrate the First Holy Communion Masses with the Children and their families. We have all been waiting a year extra for it to happen and It has been a little frustrating watching other parishes have their celebrations during the intervals between the various lockdowns. We were about three weeks behind

Joy as Mass resumes at St Bon’s other parishes last March and that three weeks made all the difference. “We had planned to hold the remaining classes in November and the Masses in January but the November lockdown and then the third lockdown came along. So to be able to have the celebrations felt so much more wonderful. Things weren’t quite the same as usual but the

BRISTOL STEINER SCHOOL Independent Day School for Children

joy on the children’s faces was wonderful as were the photos after. “It wasn’t just the joy of the occasion that was meaningful, it also felt like we were doing something normal, almost like fighting back against the pandemic and its restrictions or somehow reclaiming our lives. It was delightful to see the families gathered together, the

occasion provided them with the opportunity to meet up and have a celebration, maybe for the first time in a year. Although the Masses weren’t normal, it felt like we were doing something normal.” Normal Mass has resumed at St Bon’s with social distancing still in place, therefore for a Sunday Mass you must book online to attend.

S T B O N AV E N T U R E ’ S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Striving to be the best we can, guided by the light of Christ

SEPTEMBER PLACES AVAILABLE For pupils in Reception, Year 3, 4 and 6. Appointments for tours available by request.

Where education is a journey, not a race

Kindergarten and Main School places available Contact Reception to book a personalised meeting

Please contact:

0117 933 9990

Email: admissions.stbonaventures@bristol-schools.uk Web: stbons.uk Phone: 0117 353 2830

reception@bristolsteinerschool.org | www.bristolsteinerschool.org

All are welcome at St Bonaventure’s.

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Small class sizes foster

Love:

Love for learning, Love for oneself, Love for one another

To book a tour of our School contact admissions@cliionhigh.co.uk | 0117 933 9087

bishopstonvoice

n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS In Bishopston this month... IT’S been an unsurprisingly busy first month of settling into councillor life, but very enjoyable as we’ve continued to learn the ropes, and also getting back to case work and community projects. We are continuing to put pressure on the council and Mayor Rees for updates on the fate of the Holm oak tree on Ashley Down Road. We’re asking for confirmation that any work that will be carried out will not cause long-term damage to the tree. Emma has also been consulting with The Bristol Tree Forum about the trees in Bishopston and Ashley Down, discussing what can be done to preserve existing ones and where new ones can be planted. If you know of any trees that have been

removed in the ward and yet to be replaced, then do get in touch. Last week we were alerted by several residents to the public consultation about a potential PSPO order on St Andrews Park, which could have seen a ban on alcohol and groups of more than three people gathering there after 9pm. Although St Andrews Park is in Ashley Ward, a lot of Bishopston and Ashley Down residents use the park, and it is the nearest green space for many, so there was a lot of concern. We worked with Ashley councillor Tim Wye to investigate the PSPO consultation, as we had residents in both our wards upset that such extreme measures could be proposed. Fortunately, the council has U-Turned on the PSPO,

but it has been great engaging with local residents about what the park means to them. We are very aware of the issues with St Andrews Park, especially over lockdown, where late night noise, litter, and shall we say ‘toilet issues’ have been a problem. We look forward to supporting Cllr Wye and local residents in finding solutions to these issues, whilst still keeping the park a vibrant and lively space for all who enjoy it. On Friday 4 June, we held our first monthly surgery outside The Ardagh at Horfield Common. We intend to hold these monthly surgeries on the first Friday of every month from 4pm to 6pm. Surgeries are a chance for you to come and meet us, ask us questions, share ideas or just say hello! Hopefully, while the weather is warm, we can keep this outdoor

July, 2021

location, but do join our mailing list if you want to attend, and we can keep you updated of any location changes due to weather. We will be holding our first monthly litter pick on Friday 17. We invite people to join us each month, kids welcome, so we can keep our lovely area clean and tidy while catching up on local gossip and community chat. Get in touch If you want to join us! Enjoy the sunshine and see you soon, Emma and Lily. To get in touch or join our mailing list email: Cllr.Emma.Edwards@bristol.gov. uk 07584 184605 Cllr.lily.fitzgibbon@bristol.gov.uk 07584 186534 Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/EmmaEdwardsLilyFitzGibbon/

In Redland this month... Looking after the ward Thanks to everyone who’s been in touch since the local elections - we’re delighted people have taken the trouble to send us good wishes and of course happy as usual to deal with local problems you are raising. Post-election we’ve received plenty of requests for advice and help and we’re sorry some issues are taking longer than usual to resolve as our office is very busy. We’re also supporting 19 new colleagues in our 24 strong group now – and doing our best to get everyone up to speed to deal with the range of case work and the myriad of council systems we have to deal with. We’ve reported various issues like the continuing water leak where Berkeley Rd meets Gloucester Rd, which as we write, this is still not resolved despite follow up inquiries. On Redland Green we’re sorry to say the earlier plans for a ‘rain garden’ of thirsty plants to soak up drainage near the play area has proved problematic. We’re pushing for another option to be developed to reduce the mud bath in wet weather near the entrance gate. Recent highway surface treatment of many local roads in the ward has created all sorts of issues due to the gravel dressing on the road surfaces. We’re as frustrated as everyone about

continuing delays removing surplus gravel and restoring safety, junction, and parking markings. Please be conscious of safety and access for everyone while we try and get this resolved and don’t block pavements, corners, and cycle routes. The gravel dressing does prolong the life of damaged roads but while bedding in creates some hazards. We are trying to find out why the completion of the job and reinstatement of markings has taken so long. We supported residents in Belvedere Road challenge a revised application to extend another care home adding to the traffic, parking, and community pressures in their narrow road (which already has all the care home beds in the entire ward). We helped ensure everyone had their say at the meeting and we’re glad at the unanimous committee vote to support an officer recommendation to reject the proposal. We’re still waiting for news of the controversial development of Housing in Multiple Occupation in Melbourne Road in the ward we’ve ensured an application will be heard at a planning committee if it’s recommended for approval. There are both planning and licensing issues to deal with but these processes take place separately and don’t always follow the letter of council policies in the way we expect.

Making local streets work better for residents Many people have asked how we can press for resolution of the parking and speeding issues on local roads post-election. We are working with several groups around the ward and are supporting some who’d like to try creative new ways to manage them in line with experience elsewhere. We’re looking for support from council officers and ways to plan options which can be discussed by residents and local businesses so our streets work better for everyone in the neighbourhood. This is complicated by legal requirements and all sorts of emergency, disabled access and delivery issues but we’re hopeful more liveable areas, in line with the Mayor’s stated policy, can be created which are safer, calmer, and healthier and work well for everyone. We’re also seeking support for local electric vehicle charging to be improved. Greens on the council We’re delighted to be part of the largest Green group of councillors in the country with a more diverse group of Greens than ever before. We’re now just over one third of the council members and get three in every nine committee places.

As the Mayor has kept all Cabinet posts to his own party we get a larger proportion of committee chairs according to the ratio of opposition seats we have. Redland delivered two of the largest Green majorities in the city – thanks for your support and trust! Overall Greens got more local council votes across the city than any other party. Fi remains the group Whip, which for Greens is a co-ordinating and preparatory role also dealing with liaison with other political groups; we’re not told what to say. Martin will be Chair of Scrutiny of the Communities Commission, covering a great many local services and facilities such as parks, libraries, nature, council housing, and community development. Contacting us As always we’re happy to deal with issues you report to us. Please be a little bit patient if some things take a little longer for a while. And do note our official council emails and numbers below - not the election contacts we used during the campaign period. Contacts: FI: E: Cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov.uk Tel: 0117 353 4720 Martin: E: Cllr.martin.fodor@bristol. gov.uk Tel: 0788 473 6101 Find us on http://Facebook.com/ cllrmartin.fodor & /cllrfi.hance

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

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n NEWS

Safety charity seeks volunteer tour guides LIFESKILLS Safety Education Charity are recruiting volunteer child safety tour guides to start in September. To give potential volunteers an insight into their work sample taster sessions are planned for two dates in July. The charity, which aims to reduce accidental injuries and save lives in an emergency situation, received a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2020 and has been running for 21 years. Hundreds of Year 6 classes visit the Lifeskills centre in Hotwells annually as part of Lifeskills Primary School Programme, where the children are taught how to keep themselves safe by taking them on a tour around a realistic indoor village. Volunteer led and in small groups, children are guided through many hazardous, real-life, interactive scenarios and they learn how to best deal with difficult or risky situations. Lifeskills scenarios include a road, beach, railway, dark alleyway, shops, and homes, all with special effects to bring things to life. The children even get to make practice emergency 999 calls and it truly is a memorable experience. Pre-pandemic the charity was teaching around 12,500 primary school children every year, in line with the safety aspects of

Volunteer Hugh Vickers receives his Bristol Blue Glass Length of Service Award from assistant manager, Gemma Graville the PSHE curriculum. Since the pandemic however, Lifeskills has remained closed to schools and the charity has suffered as a result. Volunteer co-ordinator Sam Jury said: “To save the charity, we quickly produced a video package to replace school visits during lockdowns, which they could subscribe to. Although not as exciting or impactful as the physical experience, schools recognised that

by purchasing the subscription, they could help us survive, with the hope of us reopening for future generations of pupils. “We're very excited to re-open this September however, sadly, but understandably, our volunteer numbers have significantly dropped. This means we can only tentatively re-open, at a much lower visitor capacity than we're used to.” Bishopston resident Hugh Vickers is a volunteer Safety Tour Guide at Lifeskills. Prior to lockdown, Hugh completed 112 volunteer sessions and taught 450 children how to keep themselves safe. More volunteers like Hugh are needed to enable the charity to carry out further training dates for schools throughout the year. To find out more about what working at Lifeskills involves, sign up to take part in an hour-long 'Introduction to Lifeskills and Tour' to see how you could help work with the charity to protect even more children and save lives. Volunteer Taster sessions take place on Tuesday 13 July at 10:30am and Thursday 15 July at 1.30pm. To book your place on one of Lifeskills Taster Hours email Sam at sam@lifeskillsbristol.org.uk or call 07860 832 768.

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n PHARMACY BLOG

Taming the variants JUST as we all thought the shackles of Covid restrictions were coming off, it appears another chapter is starting. The announcement that second Covid jabs for all over 40s (and the clinically vulnerable) in England are now being brought forward to eight weeks, rather than 11-12 weeks, and the green light hope of international travel returning is now dependent on how we cope with the new virus mutations. What is a mutation? All viruses naturally undergo random changes to their genetic material over time, and Sars-CoV-2 (COVID-19) is no exception. The vast majority of these thousands of genetic changes do not change any feature or ability. Some even harm the virus, but every once in a while, the virus (Covid-19) strikes lucky. The mutation helps it survive and reproduce better by making it more transmissible, more resistant to vaccines.

Unfortunately, these mutations spread more and quickly become the more common form of the virus. The most potentially concerning ones are called "variants of concern" and closely monitored by scientists. Alpha, Delta, Bravo? A mutation initially detected in India has been tagged as a variant of concern. Still, like the others first seen in other countries, we are sadly certain many more will yet emerge. What about our vaccines? The vaccines we have presently can protect us from all the mutations so far, but a race is on. We need to cut transmission by encouraging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Suppose people do not get vaccinated on time? Then, we will not stop the random mutation roulette that we know at some point will result in a

variant that our current vaccines will be less able to protect everybody from, especially the older and most clinically vulnerable people. Third dose booster jabs? Experts remain confident existing vaccines can yet be redesigned to better tackle emerging mutations.Still, we all now have a part to play to prevent further deaths, hospitalisations and lockdowns. • Get your Covid-19 jabs ( First and/or Second) as soon as it is your turn. • Keep performing lateral flow testing, reporting any positive results to help detect any new variants emerging and follow the rules to stop the spread (and mutations). • Be careful to avoid foreign destinations with high infection rates but, most importantly, actively support efforts to increase free vaccine availability

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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

July, 2021

n NEWS

The joys of poetry REDLAND poet Chris Laverty has published a first volume of his work, The Ballad of Lorianna, Ever Brush Away The Sleep, To Winter and other poems. A keen reader, his first inspiration as a writer was the English Romantic poet, Shelley. Chris has written poetry for many years and has been working on finding his own classical style as he explains: “A lot of modern poetry tends to be written as free verse and is confessional. “I like to use the rhythm of traditional metre in my poetry but in a more modern way. “What I’ve tried to do is find a different way of writing poetry. A lot of people don’t connect

On Seeing Manchester At Dawn

with modern poetry and I hope my work is more accessible and optimistic.” Chris has travelled widely, teaching English in China and working as a cook. His poem To Winter is inspired by fond memories of a visit to the French Alps and appreciating the scenery. “I was trying to get into the idea of loving winter when my thoughts are conflicted about it,” says Chris.

The sky's as charmless as a filthy rag as daylight breaks, the traffic shuffles filed; pavements are tired and littered, bins are piled, the clay-like Sun's first smiles with sadness sag. The city's ragged as a vagrant hag, and seems a lightless land for souls exiled yet somehow by this sight I am beguiled, my spirits roused that in dejection drag. I did not see - so hushful in the stone this loveliness I unexpected meet see these subtle charms all of their own, that play around each weather-beaten street see in these buildings - that like flesh and bone stir and wake - the city's hidden beat. © Chris Laverty

“I write about the pleasures of winter and seeing it in a positive light rather than in a negative way.” To find out more see: www.amazon.co.uk/BalladLorianna-Brush-Sleep-Winter/ dp/8194827167

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n VET'S ADVICE AS life starts to return to a post pandemic near normal. We are at last able to allow clients back into the practice building and they no longer have to suffer the weather while waiting for us to examine their pet. This also means that we are now able to offer our full range of veterinary services including dental checks and dentistry. Like us, our pets need regular dental check ups and dental attention as necessary. Studies have shown that dental disease is extremely prevalent in our dogs and cats, over 20% of cats aged over 10 have dental issues needing attention and the figure for dogs is even higher. Imagine the state of your own mouth if you had not cleaned your teeth for 10 years? Our pets rarely have their teeth cleaned and although plenty of dental food and chews are available our pets teeth are often neglected by us. We always check dogs and cats mouths at their annual vaccination visit and can often find issues then but this is only once a year. ‘Dog breath’ is not necessarily normal, it can indicate dental disease and infection, cats can also have very smelly breath associated with a

Time for a dental check?

problem. Once plaque forms on teeth it hardens to calculus in a few days. Calculus builds up and also traps bacteria allowing gums to be pushed back to exposing tooth root and infection to set up in the mouth. Once the gums have receded this is an irreversible change. The end result is loose infected painful teeth that need extraction. The infection in the mouth can also seed infections elsewhere in the body which in an elderly patient can be life threatening. Home care for teeth is extremely important, this includes dental foods, extra fibrous foods that need more chewing to help keep the surface of the teeth clean.

Chews for dogs are very useful to keep teeth in good condition (please avoid antlers as these are so hard they can lead to broken teeth). Seaweed powders are available to mix in your dog or cat’s food to help prevent calculus formation and loosen any calculus formed. And of course daily tooth brushing if you can with a pet toothbrush makes a big difference. If necessary we can scale and polish teeth extracting any teeth in need of removal. This has to be performed under a general anaesthetic, so the more effective the home care program the less often we need to anaesthetise your pet. So why not take a look at your pet's teeth now? If you can see any reddening of the gums, any calculus build up on the teeth or any loose teeth then it is time for a dental check up. You don’t even need to be able to open the mouth to check, a good sniff to smell the breath can be very helpful. If you have any concerns about your pet’s teeth please give us a

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

We can all help our tourism sector to recover THE West of England is truly amazing, as my first month as Metro Mayor has reminded me again and again. With Summer finally here, I’ve enjoyed speaking to a huge range of people and businesses vital to our tourism industry. I had a great time at ‘We the Curious’ playing football with robots and seeing a TARDIS, plus I stuck my neck out and met some giraffes at Wild Place. I rode an e-bike in Bath. The fantastic Julian House is buying a fleet of these, thanks to a grant from the West of England Combined Authority, which I now lead, and they plan to get tourists on the bikes to create vital new income for the charity. I discovered another way tourists can see Bath too: by paddle board! Wild Swim Bike Run is a small business that’s making a splash. Run by ex-military man Darroch Davidson, they’ve also benefited from West of England Combined Authority cash and are looking to take on more staff. Now, I have to admit my paddle boarding experience was a bit wobbly! But wobbly probably also reflects the wider mood in the tourism industry. Launching a new events guide for our

region with Visit Bristol and Bath, I found out more about the effect of the pandemic on our tourism industry. Over 3.8 million people used to visit annually, spending over £900m, and that meant local jobs and prosperity - around 8% of local employment is reliant on visitors. The West of England Combined Authority has a number of important schemes to support our tourism sector. I have pledged to double the £9 million covid recovery fund to target those local businesses hardest hit by the pandemic. Then there is a scheme helping people match their skills to new jobs and our successful programme for those creative people working in the cultural sector - musicians, artists and tour guides. Worryingly, though, we still haven’t seen the Government’s Tourism Recovery Plan; great swathes of this sector have been excluded from current Government schemes. One thing we can all do is support our local tourism attractions and pop into cafes and restaurants. After all, as the government keeps changing the countries where we are allowed to holiday in, in a way designed to perplex,

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice

I’m not sure that many people will be booking overseas breaks. But we are so lucky with what’s on our doorstep. We also need to talk up our area as a brilliant place to visit. And that means all of our villages and beautiful market towns, too. I was in Keynsham laying a paving slab as part of my plan to invest in our high streets because I don’t want people just to visit Bristol and Bath, wonderful as they are, and miss out on the equally brilliant bits in between. We need a tourism strategy that brings jobs and opportunities to our whole region.

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES

No kicking into the long grass for us! TO say we have been busy over the last few weeks would be an understatement. When the weather is nice, June is traditionally the busiest month for a rosé producer and this year has lived up to that tradition. I’ve been rushing about to all the small restaurants and shops in Bristol as well as sending wine off to Bath and London every few days. In the vineyard we’ve let the grass grow to its full height for the first time ever - we’re trying to encourage more wildlife and have a more hands off, chemical free approach. There are definitely more beetles and insects around which is really exciting and interesting to see! Letting go of controlling the grass felt a bit scary at first as we weren’t sure whether it would completely swamp the baby vines or older vines as well but so far it seems to be fine. We will mow soon but hope to make it a much less frequent affair from now on.

Our new wine called ‘bottom’ is officially out! It’s the undisgorged form of our sparkling white so still has its yeast or lees in the ‘bottom’ of the bottle. The name is a bit tongue in cheek. It has the same pressure and alcohol content as our sparkling white but tastes totally different with the yeast in place - like a fruity cider

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n MAYOR'S VIEW

Last call for Night Time Economy THE re-opening of Bristol’s Night Time Economy (NTE) has been a hot topic, with the sector and residents ready to come back with a bang after a challenging 16 months. However, at the time of writing, we have been informed that the planned reopening has now been delayed by four weeks to 19th July. The NTE is loosely defined as businesses which operate between 6pm and 6am; the city doesn’t stop at 6 o’clock. It is most widely known as encompassing hospitality such as pubs, bars, restaurants, and cultural spaces, including live music venues, nightclubs and comedy clubs. It also extends to the broad spectrum of businesses operating alongside the above, such as taxis, hotels, and the supply chain. The NTE has been one of the hardest hit sectors by the pandemic. Even those venues that can open under current restrictions such as pubs, bars

and restaurants, are taking 20%-30% of their usual takings as social distancing continues to decimate profits. While the pandemic has created space for innovative ways of operation such as Breaking Bread and the creativity of takeaway options, the four-week delay has dealt another blow to businesses. Venue owners and event organisers, who have been planning towards the 21st June by buying stock and hiring staff are now, in many cases, unable to recoup these costs, and UK Hospitality estimate that 300,000 jobs are at risk, with new hires not eligible for furlough. The NTE sector is crucial to our city’s economy; prepandemic the sector employed 34% of Bristol’s workers and the delay will impact major events scheduled for July such as Bristol Pride, Sequences, Balloon Fiesta and Valleyfest. The impact of furlough and lockdowns has also resulted in large numbers

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The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with Bishopston Voice force at the end of June. Whilst businesses face debt, quarterly rent payments and further contributions to furlough costs in the coming weeks, they are still unable to generate revenue. Our NTE contributes to making Bristol a popular, bustling city and is a key part of our cultural identity. Government need to recognise this and extend current business life support to ensure that this crucial sector of our economy can survive this delay and eventually open its doors to Bristol once more.

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bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n NATURE WATCH With Dawn Lawrence AS I write summer is magnificently beaming down on our garden and even the bees look rather hot. Our policy of benevolent neglect has led to an overgrowth of undergrowth and the natural tumbling down to woodland (an old phrase) as we allow many trees and shrubs to have their way. Teasels trap insects in the pools of rainwater held in expanded leaf bases and absorb the soupy goodness. Bush vetch and creeping buttercup have crept in and now bush right over our garden chairs as soon as we turn our backs. Stinging nettles jostle around the compost heap, whilst herb robert laces its way up the trellis which is supposed to be for the cucumbers. We have added a few suggestions of our own – wild strawberries now embroider the bank with their star-like flowers and blood-red fruits, pink hardy geraniums fight to cover the path and a gorgeous yellow fleabane is irresistible to hoverflies in high summer. We put in a pond, of course, and it is now so overgrown that we are contemplating

(whisper it quietly) some management… Plant variety brings insect abundance; Chief Birder has identified almost 1,200 species so far, and counting... Hedge woundwort, with its strange beetroot-coloured flowers, has its very own shield bug, a tiny copper jewel. An ant-hill has appeared on the edge of the rarely mown “lawn” (perhaps better termed a clearing). Tiny moths burrow into the leaves of the apple trees, beetles overwinter in the ends of

Medieval house open to visitors THERE is a medieval building and a small cottage next to it at the end of Church Road in Westbury-onTrym next to the Parish Church. The Grade II* house was built as part of the development of the Parish Church in the 1440s. Architecturally, this building is an important survival, as there are very few medieval ‘hall houses’ like it in this part of the country. Many of its roof timbers are intact, and the house still has its original oak front door and several 15th century doors and windows. Known locally as ‘Elsie Briggs House’ after its previous owner, this ancient building is now The Well, Centre for Spirituality, and has been a Christian place of prayer and retreat for nearly 30 years. People of all faiths and none are welcome to spend time in this ancient building, to soak in the silence and history of the House, to pause and reflect. Visitors are welcome at the July Open Days, Sunday 4 July and Wednesday 21 July - Friday 23 July, 2 - 5pm daily. If you would like to come and visit at another time, please contact the Warden on 0117 950 7242 or warden@ thewellcentreforspirituality.org.uk.

cut stems, bumble bees relish the vetch. And you don’t have to lose your garden chairs; it is incredible how little changes can make a big difference – after all, insects live on a tiny scale. Allow a bit of bramble to take a hold, leave that dead branch in place, let some grass grow long; it all helps. I write this little paean to our wild garden partly because of a small sadness: the local house martins have failed to return this year and I miss them. They may well come back next year,

but they need insects if they are to make their homes here and rear their chicks. We probably all know by now about the sinister insect decline and just as every government, every farmer, must do their bit, we can help too. One of the most insidious problems is broad-spectrum insecticides that kill all insects instead of just the problem species. So this is a heart-felt plea to leave them on the shelf if you possibly can. And don’t buy online – there are many unregulated products which are seriously harmful to humans, let alone to insects! The nibbled leaf, the nettles in the corner and the nest of caterpillars on the cotoneaster can make a difference towards saving our share of biodiversity. You can’t make space for a tiger, we have to ask the people of Asia to do that, but you could spare some greenfly for the ladybirds. Take care, enjoy your summer garden and let nature restore and revive you. And fingers crossed for the house martins.

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bishopstonvoice

n WHAT'S ON 29 July - 1 August

July, 2021

n NEWS

n Arts festival, The Green Gathering, returns to Piercefield Park, Chepstow, from 29 July - 1st August. Eco-friendly entertainment, education and experiences, set in beautiful parkland with its own ruined mansion. Tickets: Adults £130/Kids: from £10, www.greengathering.org.uk Wednesday, July 7 n Bristol Welsh National Opera regret to announce the cancellation of their event at Redmaids' School on 7 July because of the extended Covid Restrictions. We plan to resume events on 22 September, details of which will be announced at a later stage. n The Arts Society Bristol Would you like to join us for lectures on a wide range of arts related subjects, given by specialists in their own field? We would welcome new members for our next season starting in September. For more information visit our website www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk

Regular events Monday

n Play bowls at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579

Thursday

n Bishop Road Community Choir are meeting online Thursday evenings via Zoom at 8pm for an hour. If anyone is interested they should contact us via bishoproadchoir@gmail.com for a link.

n NEWS

NGS gardens open in July THREE gardens are opening in North Bristol for the National Garden Scheme (NGS) in July. Swift House - 9 Lyndale Avenue, Stoke Bishop, Bristol, BS9 1BS opens between 12.30 - 4.30pm on Sunday 4 July. Pre Booking on ngs.org.uk is essential. It is a beautiful city garden designed to be a haven for wildlife. Plants are grown to provide food and shelter throughout the year with the emphasis on flowers rich in nectar. It is home to the largest breeding colony of Swifts in Bristol. www. bristolswifts.co.uk. Berwick Lodge - Berwick Drive, Bristol, BS10 7TD is open for visitors between 12 - 5pm on Thursday 8 and Friday 9 July. Pre booking is available but not essential. Admission £5 and cream teas are available. Berwick Lodge, named Bristol's hidden gem by its customers, is an independent hotel with beautiful gardens on the outskirts of Bristol. Built in 1890, this Victorian Arts and Crafts property is set within 18 acres of gardens and woodland, four of which offer a peaceful garden for use by its visitors. The garden has been extensively developed in recent years and enjoys pretty views across the Bristol Channel to Wales. University of Bristol Botanic Gardens, Stoke Park Road, Bristol, BS9 1JG is opening for the National Garden Scheme between 10am - 4pm on Sunday 11 July. Pre booking is available but not essential. Admission £8. This is an exciting and contemporary award winning Botanic Garden with dramatic displays illustrating collections of Mediterranean flora, rare native, useful plants (including European and Chinese herbs) and those that illustrate plant evolution. There are large floral displays illustrating pollination in flowering plants and evolution. The glasshouses are home to a giant Amazon waterlily, tropical fruit, medicinal plants, orchids, cacti and unique sacred lotus collection.

Dancers set to perform RISE Youth Dance are putting on their first live performance since the Covid restrictions were put in place. Students from RISE Youth Dance, based in Cotham and other locations across Bristol, are performing REACH: 2 Meet Us Together. The dance performance takes place inside and around the grounds of Ashton Court Mansion and celebrates the joy of being together once more. Performances: Friday 9 July at 7pm, Saturday 10 July, 2pm and 7pm and Sunday 11 July at 2pm. Adult tickets £10, children 5-18yrs/students £8 and family tickets (2 adults/2 children) cost £30. Tickets available at riseydtickets@ gmail.com or see the website www.riseyouthdance.com

Funds boost for Bristol Utd Walking Football Club FOOTBALL in Bristol received a boost in June as Bristol United Walking Football Club was awarded a £500 grant by the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation. The £500 grant, part of the Foundation’s Return to Football Fund, is helping Bristol United Walking Football Club to restart following the lifting of government restrictions on grassroots football. The grant was made possible thanks to funding from The FA and Sport England through the Football Foundation. This money will be used for a new walking football session based in St Paul’s Community Sports Academy. The sessions will be held on Sundays at 1.00pm starting on June 20. Bristol United hopes that it’s new programme in partnership with Lebeq FC will enable it to significantly grow participation in football in Central Bristol. Keith Gwilym, Secretary of Bristol United Walking Football Club said: “This grant from the Return to Football Fund allows us to work in partnership with Errol Thompson of Lebeq FC to start walking football sessions in Central Bristol. We are also grateful for the help and advice given by Matt Bennett and Delroy Hibbert of the Bristol Rovers Community Trust and Earle Simpson the Manager of St Paul’s Community Sports Academy.”

To advertise your business email Emma at emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk

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

July, 2021

bishopstonvoice

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

New funding will help to support survivors IT'S been a busy first few weeks in office and, as I’ve toured the patch, I feel honoured to have met some incredibly dedicated, diligent and caring officers, staff and teams doing some great work within our communities to keep people safe. A key role of the Police and Crime Commissioner is to be the voice of local people, and I want to understand your concerns, listen to your ideas and learn how best I can support. My initial focus has been to meet with police officers and staff, to understand the issues faced by our policing family and the communities they serve. As this continues, my engagement will expand to meet with residents, partners and MPs on a weekly basis, from July onwards. I am proud to be working on your behalf and am committed to delivering the pledges I set

out in my election manifesto. Your needs are central to my work, and hearing from you is very important. As a result, this summer I will be launching a consultation survey focusing on what you’d like from your police service, which will then inform our Police and Crime Plan. More information about this survey will be on our website in the coming weeks. My team and I have gathered much momentum and have set our early priority work areas that include the Police and Crime Plan, recruiting a new Chief Constable and other important roles, reviewing governance and scrutiny structures to improve openness and transparency in our police force and reviewing the effectiveness of police stations and buildings across the area. I will continue to update you as this work continues and

progresses. I’m also delighted to share with you that we’ve secured one of our largest funding achievements for victim services, with £1 million in funding to support survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence. This will fund 23 independent domestic violence advisor (IDVA) roles and eight independent sexual violence advisor (ISVA) specialist roles who will work alongside victim services, partners and local authorities. A number of these new IDVAs and ISVAs will be specialist roles to ensure everyone who is a victim of domestic abuse or violence receives the support they need. Such specialisms include working with black and minority ethnic victims, elderly victims, children and young people, victims in rural communities, victims of

Gilbert & Sullivan Operatic Society recruiting for 60th year celebrations START a new hobby, or revive an old one, with BGSOS! Local performing group, Bristol Gilbert & Sullivan Operatic Society, is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2022 and looking for people to join their ranks. The current membership includes people of all ages – from age 7 to 87 – who get together regularly to sing and act. Chair Hannah Coleman, is passionate about the society and says: “It’s a really friendly group who aren’t just great performers, but also great friends. It’s been such a challenging year for all in the performing arts and we’re so excited to be back this September to start rehearsing our 60th anniversary production.” Along with a professional orchestra, BGSOS is looking

forward to its 60th anniversary production of HMS Pinafore at The Redgrave Theatre in Clifton from March 30 – April 2 2022. Following the show, the society will end the season with a special anniversary party in May 2022. BGSOS also offers The Wetherell Bursary to members, which is a contribution to the cost of singing or acting lessons for applicants. Hannah adds: “Named after our former musical director, Eric Wetherell, we are proud to give back to our members and meet our charitable aims.” BGSOS rehearses at St Teresa’s Community Centre in Filton every Tuesday evening, and the evenings combine hard work with a cup of tea and a friendly chat. BGSOS is looking for performing members, scenery builders, costume developers

and technical volunteers. You can also support us as a society friend, if volunteering is not for you. For details about all our roles, please email secretary@ bristolgsos.co.uk More information about the society can be found at www. bristolgsos.co.uk, or see the facebook page, @BristolGSOS.

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford economic abuse, victims with complex needs, male victims, LGBT+ victims and victims with mental health issues and illnesses. This is one of our largest funding achievements for victim services and I look forward to supporting the work of the new ISVAs and IDVAs.

UWE study of Somali people with visible facial differences RESEARCHERS at the Centre for Appearance Research (CAR) at UWE are looking for Somali people to take part in a new research study. The study aims to learn more about the experiences of Somali people who have a visible facial difference – that is, an appearance that is different to the ‘norm’, such as scars, cleft lip, hyperpigmentation, vitiligo and skin conditions such as eczema. The interviews will be online or over the telephone, anonymous and confidential, and participants will receive a reward for taking part. For more information or to take part contact: Bruna. Oliveiracosta@uwe.ac.uk

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

New show apartment ready to view Join us at the Open Day to take a look at the around these beautiful homes.

Experience Redland Court for yourself. Book a private tour of our stunning show apartments today. CGI imagery used for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of going to press

• 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options • Excellent specification to complement this historic building • Outside space and spectacular views with many apartments • Access to private, secluded 3-acre grounds • Allocated parking

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n PROPERTY OF THE MONTH Redland Court is holding an Open Day on Saturday 3rd July 10am - 2pm this is the perfect opportunity to view this landmark development. Viewings by appointment. If you are looking for something truly individual, and in the best possible location, you should be looking at Redland Court. This is a development where no two apartments, duplex or newly built houses are the same. Having watched this iconic development blossom over the past 20 months, its true individuality and grandeur is now being fully revealed. With forward thinking residents moving in weekly, the site is coming to life. From 1-4 bedroom listed historic duplex and apartments to 1-3 bedroom contemporary houses and apartments there is something here for the most discerning of buyers. With the last two buildings currently well underway, including the majestic Grade II* Listed Manor House, the second half of the year will see the development completed. 1-bed apartments from £365,000 • 2-bed apartments from £525,000 • 3 and 4-bed apartments from £895,000 - £1.5m. To book your Open Day viewing, please call Savills on 0117 910 0360 or Ocean on 0117 946 9838

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Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Tel:07970 758351 Please feel free to call us during To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715 770448 or email emma@bishopstonvoice.co.uk. Got news? Email: news@bishopstonvoice.co.uk office hours on: 0117 952 0698

bishopstonvoice

July, 2021

n NEWS FROM THE FRIENDS OF BISHOPSTON LIBRARY AT the time of writing, there is no definite news about libraries re-opening fully, but staff and Friends groups are keen to get back to normal. Join friends@bishopstonlibrary.org.uk to be kept up to date with Friends of Bishopston Library events and activities. Hopefully we will see you again before too long. We weren’t able to hold a fourth birthday event this year, but let’s hope for something extra special next year! We are delighted to have one activity underway, a project funded by the Bristol Libraries Innovation Fund called A series of talented events. But we need your help to make it happen. Calling young people in Bishopston! A series of talented events is an exciting project for young people aged 17-23, providing an opportunity to develop and display your talents in areas such as creativity, technology or the environment.

We are looking to recruit a small group of young people keen to volunteer some time to help shape and deliver the project. This Ambassador Team will have a vital role to play in its success, bringing ideas, networks and talent. Plus you will gain project management skills, boost your confidence – and add value to your CV. Does this sound like you, or someone you know? You don’t need to be a current library member or user, just someone with ideas and enthusiasm. As well as attending a couple of meetings over the summer, you will need to be around in the autumn when the workshops, events or activities will take place. Whether you’re working, in college, sixth form or university, if you’re interested, just send us an email with ‘Ambassador’ in the subject line. Please say a bit about yourself, including your age and current situation (where you are studying or working), plus any areas of particular interest. Please email friends@bishopstonlibrary.

org.uk by 30 July and we will get back to you. The library can be so much more than a place to borrow books or study - this is your chance to show just how much more it can be – this project needs YOU!! Looking for a co-ordinator! To manage this work, we are looking for a part-time paid co-ordinator to facilitate the Ambassador Team and support the project. We need someone with experience of working positively with young people, who understands that success will depend on the young people themselves owning, informing and shaping the work. We anticipate this requiring approximately 45 hours work between July and December 2021. For further information about the project role and application details, contact: Friends of Bishopston Library friends@bishopstonlibrary. org.uk

n NEWS

Celebrating the wonderful history of Brooks Dye Works IN the vibrant neighbourhood of St Werburghs, a historic dye works and laundry which ran for over 145 years is being transformed into contemporary new homes at Brooks Dye Works. Acorn Property Group has revealed a plaque on the original Victorian chimney paying tribute to the site’s rich history, unveiled by Simon Brooks, the greatgreat-grandson of the founder Alfred Brooks. The plaque explains the site’s history for future generations and talks about the ingenious use of white bricks for the ‘Brooks Dye Works’ lettering red brick chimney, meaning it never has to be repainted. Originally founded in 1862 by Alfred Brooks with records of a dye works in Bristol as early as 1819, the ‘Brooks Dyers and Cleaners’ factory offered services including dyeing clothes for mourning, and recolouring faded items. Over the years the business expanded to offer all elements of textile care; by the late 20th century, the company had many dry-cleaning branches across Bristol. Simon Brooks, who recently turned 90, first visited the factory

as a child with his father in the 1930s; Simon became the fifth generation to run the family business. Mr Brooks worked closely with Acorn to design the plaque and visited the site this month to see it fixed to the chimney. “I think my family would be delighted with the plaque in memory of our business”, said Mr Brooks. “The site is totally different now from its history as an industrial enterprise but the land has been well used. I am very glad the developers have put the plaque up on the chimney, people must wonder about the chimney and this really adds something. Historically, Brooks was a community with our workers living for two or three generations in the area. The new development offers a multiplicity of homes, in such a location, it is likely to create a new thriving community which is great news. It is wonderful to see the history preserved for the next generation.” Brooks Dye Works offers a collection of 81 new homes, with direct access to open green space in the adjacent Mina Road Park.

Centred on the landmark 19th century chimney, each house is designed with flexible open plan living, private gardens and allocated parking. The development is now over 50%

sold, get in touch with the sales team to find out how they can help get you moving. For more information: 0117 244 0400 acornpropertygroup.org

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

July, 2021

bishopstonvoice

n HOME IMPROVEMENT

Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead

What is the difference between a walk-in shower and a wet room? WE are often asked what the difference is between the wet rooms that we install and a normal walk-in shower. It’s important to understand the difference, as well as the safety advantage of having level access. The classic difference is that a walk-in shower has a tray that catches the water whereas a wet room doesn’t have any tray or lip to step over to get in. The tray itself has been sunk into the waterproofed floor below the shower, allowing you to just walk straight in. Some people are concerned about having a wet room because it suggests that the shower itself isn’t enclosed. We’re much more used to seeing showers in their own corner of the room. A lot of our customers ask whether the shower will be discreet, whether the water will splash everywhere, and if it’ll look stylish. Your new bathroom being a wet “room” doesn’t mean that the shower won’t have its own defined space. The main showering area where the water is will often be separated by a screen. There are a variety of designs available so you can choose something that suits the style you are going for. The non-slip flooring included is designed in a clever way to let the water run away easily and not pool on the floor. It’s built around you and your needs. If you’re looking for a shower room that’s easy to clean and maintain, try having panels instead

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5 Hide Market, Waterloo Road, Bristol BS2 0BH 0300 323 0700 www.wecr.org.uk info@wecr.org.uk users a wet room is the easiest and safest bathing solution. No need for ramps or negotiating over lips to get in. Carers can also find them a lot easier to use. With movable screens of different sizes you can make the space or gain the access that’s needed. Depending on what is required, a full wet room isn’t something that will take a long time to install. Modern shower and wet room systems can be fitted within days instead of weeks, depending on the size of the room and anything else that needs to be adapted or installed to support having a shower in the room. We’re happy to answer any questions you have about what will be possible in your home. Our friendly knowledgeable bathrooms team will be with you every step of the way. We even have a qualified Occupational Therapist on hand to give you a free full assessment first to figure out what would suit you best, as well as surveyors and only the best local contractors to install everything. With 30 years experience in home improvements, you can trust us to get it right.

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bishopstonvoice

38 CLEANING

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July, 2021 GARDENING SERVICES

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Please book an appointment on:

0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com

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

OVER 50% NOW SOLD

Brooks Dye Works offers a range of contemporary 3 & 4 bedroom homes in vibrant St. Werburghs. Adjacent to Mina Road Park for plenty of green space to enjoy. The homes are centred around the landmark 19th century chimney and offer private gardens and allocated parking. 3 & 4 BEDROOM HOMES FROM £475,000

SHOW HOME OPEN DAILY BY APPOINTMENT OR VIEWABLE ONLINE SEVIER STREET, ST. WERBURGHS, BRISTOL BS2 9QS

For further information: acornpropertygroup.org brooksdyeworks@acornpg.org 0117 405 4002

Images used for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of print.

An Acorn Property Group development in conjunction with Galliard homes.