Carla Denyer is pictured setting off for Westminster after her emphatic general election in Bristol Central, where she defeated Labour's Thangam Debbonaire to become Bristol's first Green MP. She joins three other Greens in Parliament, where the new Labour government has a huge majority.
More details and Carla's first Voice column: Page 5
CAMPAIGNERS are urging Clifton councillors to do more to protect the gardens at the 11.4 acre Bristol Zoo site.
They want to ensure that the public open space, bequeathed to local people in perpetuity, is safeguarded in any future development.
The site, for which planning permissions for 196 homes was granted in April 2023, was put on the market for about £40 million and Bristol Zoological Society says that now the city council has finalised details and issued its Decision Notice, the sale is
likely to go ahead this year.
The Save Bristol Gardens Alliance Ltd is considering seeking a Judicial Review of the planners’ decision. If it is to make a legal challenge, it must do so early this month.
A spokesperson said the council's conditions for developers, which are included in what's known as a Section 106 agreement, are inadequate and should receive public scrutiny.
Turn to Page 2
Clifton plays a starring role
Television and film crews have been active in Clifton this summer, including in Vyvyan Terrace, where the Forsyte Saga is being filmed for ITV. PAGE 3
Miriam Margolyes has visited the former Jacobs Wells Baths, which is being restored thanks to Trinity Bristol.
PAGE 9
Association marks golden year
Hotwells and Cliftonwood Community Association is celebrating its 50th anniversary. PAGE 11
From Page 1
“The agreement does not deliver what was promised,” the spokesperson said. “The public access aspects of this are so important – the Victorian pleasure gardens were given to the people of Bristol in perpetuity.
"The document contains vague statements. There is no detail behind it and no money has been set aside.”
A Bristol Zoo spokesperson said: “Bristol City Council has issued a Decision Notice, Section 106 agreement and planning conditions, which set out the planning obligations any developer of the former Bristol Zoo Gardens must meet.
“The plan includes 196 homes (20% affordable), a new public park, Conservation Hub, café and playground. This is positive news, as the planning obligations include key aspects of the design, which the Society has always been committed to. This means a future developer implementing the scheme must ensure:
• 20% of the housing on site is affordable (30 homes for social
rent and 10 for first time buyers).
• Free public access to the gardens is maintained 365 days of the year between 8am and 5pm or 7pm, depending on the time of year.
• The iconic entrance building is re-purposed to become a Conservation Hub, opened to the public with community rooms and a café.
“The site was publicly put on the market in 2023 and we have been pleased with the response. We’ll continue to progress the sale of the site this year, while focusing on the Society’s mission - Saving Wildlife Together – by creating a conservation led zoo at Bristol Zoo Project.”
The campaigners are concerned that the plan includes
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removal of many trees. Asked about this, the Zoo said: “To protect the most important trees on site like the monkey puzzle tree, the Society has put in place 29 tree protection orders. And the design of the buildings has been carefully planned to protect tree roots.
“In total, there are 218 existing trees on site (excluding groups of tree shrubs / understorey trees) of which we are proposing to remove 80 trees. Most of the trees to be removed are of a low quality and have been assessed as Category U or C. None of the trees planned for removal have been assessed as Category A. Of those being removed, 44 trees will be translocated, and
470 new trees will be planted, which far exceeds Bristol Tree Replacement Standard.”
Ward councillors Paula O'Rourke and Jerome Thomas told residents about the agreement via their regular newsletter. They said: "Prior to the application being submitted we argued hard for the Zoo Trustees to apply for a ‘right of way’ through the garden but we could not persuade the Director to do that. However, we believe that the s106 gives security to the public that the gardens will be kept open for the hours listed, as this can only be changed by going back to the planners and opening a public consultationso nothing can be done ‘behind closed doors’."
In their column for the Voice this month, they said: "Like many, we are sad to see the Zoo gone, but we cannot continue to hope that it will return and must accept that there will be homes on the garden site.
"On the positive side, the gardens, which were previously only accessible for those paying to go to the Zoo, will now be open to the public."
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SEVERAL streets in Clifton were given makeovers as film and television cameras rolled into the area.
Specially made porches with balconies supported by large pillars were added to the front of two houses in Vyvyan Terrace for scenes in The Forsyte Saga which will be screened next year on ITV.
Makeshift stables were also set up on grassland opposite nearby Christ Church so that horses pulling their passengers along Vyvyan Terrace in Hanson cabs could be fed.
Vyvyan Terrace was closed to traffic in the first week of July.
Earlier one of Bristol’s best known churches, St. Mary Redcliffe was closed to visitors for two days in June as scenes for the Forsyte Saga were being filmed there. It was the first time the church had been completely closed for filming.
A spokesperson for the production company said: “This is a bold reimagining of John Galsworthy’s epic saga.”
Kings Road in the heart of Clifton Village was closed and turned into a street market while Studio Lambert were filming scenes for Boarders, the BBC-3 series that follows five black teenagers at a private school
Meanwhile, the private members only Clifton Club in The Mall, which is more than 200 years old, was closed to members as film crews took over the premises for filming.
A member of the production
THE former WH Smith site in the centre of Clifton Village has been bought by a property developer in Brighton.
It was sold by THAT Group, which gained planning permission for a three storey development on the site three years ago. It demolished the derelict WH Smith building and six other shops in 2021.
THAT Group announced in July last year that the project it had envisaged for the site was no longer viable because of soaring construction costs. It said it was reconsidering how best to use the site.
It has now sold the land to Spear Developments, a private
limited company which has been running for 25 years.
No details are available how Spear wish to develop the empty site, which is now covered with weeds and bushes.
It is not known how much the firm paid for the land although it is believed THAT Group were open to offers in the region of £6 million.
The two firms handling the sale, Lambert, Smith, Hampton and Burston Cook previously said: “We are of the opinion that the site also suits a development of residential flats above ground floor commercial for which consent has previously been granted but has since lapsed.”
crew said: “I can’t tell you anything about what were filming. Everything is being kept under wraps at the moment”.
A Bristol Film Office spokesperson said: "Film and TV production levels in Bristol have been rising in recent years, and Clifton remains a consistently popular location. With its beautifully preserved Georgian, Regency and Victorian architecture arranged in crescents, squares and terraces, it offers unique options
that are attractive to film makers shooting both period and modern storylines.
"Our research shows that filming activity of this type generates more than £20 million annually towards Bristol's economy. As well as generating work for local freelance crew, it also creates knock-on benefits for other sectors including hospitality, transport and tourism. For example, a production may have over 100 cast and crew working on it per day, all of whom need local accommodation, transport, catering and other day-to-day requirements.
“Money is spent in the local economy, increasing custom for local hotels, guest -houses, B&B’s, restaurants and cafes, taxis and transport companies. When that production is released on screen, we often see an increase in footfall to filming locations in the city, driven by the growing trend of screen tourism.”
CARLA Denyer has made history by being elected at Bristol’s first Green MP.
She won the seat in the general election on July 4 from Labour’s Thangam Debbonaire, who had been tipped for a position at the heart of the new Labour government.
Throughout the campaign, the contest had been said to be close, but the result saw Ms Denyer, co-leader of the Green Party, take 56.6 per cent of the votes, more than 20 points ahead of Labour who won 32.6 per cent. Trailing far behind were the Conservatives in third, followed by Reform UK, the Liberal Democrats and finally the Party of Women.
The win marks part of a seismic shift in support for the Greens both in Bristol and across the country. In May, the Green Party took control of Bristol City Council, falling only two seats short of an absolute majority.
Ms Denyer, who stood down
as a city councillor to concentrate on her Parliamentary ambition, said as the result was announced: “Bristol, you made history today. Together we elected our city’s first Green MP. I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who voted Green, I’m incredibly grateful that you put your trust in me. And to everyone who gave your vote to somebody else this time, I’m here for you,
ready to listen to you and work hard for you too. This incredible city has long had my heart and the warmth I have felt during this campaign has been truly humbling. I feel so privileged to have this opportunity to serve you and to ensure that the real hope that inspired so many people to vote Green is represented in Parliament. I can’t wait to get started.”
FIRST and foremost, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the residents of Bristol Central for your overwhelming congratulations and support following my election. Your engagement and feedback are invaluable as I begin my tenure as your Member of Parliament.
In addition to your warm wishes, many of you have contacted me about significant concerns regarding proposed water bill increases and the deteriorating state of our rivers and seas. These issues are not just environmental; they affect our daily lives and future sustainability.
Alongside my three fellow Green Party MPs and those from across the House of Commons, I’ve wasted no time in addressing these pressing matters, jointly submitting the first Early Day Motion of the new government, making the case that the privatisation experiment in the water sector has failed and it’s time to bring the water companies back into public ownership.
In my maiden speech on Thursday 18th July, I had the privilege to thank the resilient people of Bristol for their trust and support and celebrate Bristol’s history of speaking up for what is right and not being afraid to swim against the tide.
I am also proud to have tabled an amendment to the King's Speech, urging the government to adopt more ambitious measures across multiple fronts. This amendment calls for robust action on climate change, providing safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to claim asylum, fairer housing policies that prioritise affordability and sustainability, and for the government to immediately lift the cruel two-child benefit cap which holds families down in poverty unnecessarily and will impact 2.63 million children by the end of this parliament.
While my team and I have been busy setting up our constituency office, this hasn’t stopped our work in continuing to address residents’ concerns. Over the
past two weeks, we have been actively listening to residents on a wide range of issues, many of them revolving around 14 years of government inaction, particularly regarding the extension of free school meals into the summer holidays and inadequate housing and healthcare.
Just recently, I hosted my first casework surgery, where I had the privilege of meeting with a local organisation, FirstGens, a social enterprise set up to ensure that first-generation students not only enrol in higher education but also thrive by providing essential support through their Navigating University Programme. You can find out more about the great work FirstGens do to support students who are the first in their family to attend university by visiting their website https:// firstgens.co.uk/
It was heartening to witness the dedication and resilience of groups such as this, supporting our community.
In the coming weeks, I look
Bristol Central forms most of the former Bristol West constituency, which had been held by Ms Debbonaire since 2015. She said: “Across the country people have voted for a Labour government and I couldn’t be prouder of my part in seeing that happen. Fourteen long years of chaos and division have finally come to an end."
Ms Denyer received 24,539 votes, while Ms Debbonaire received 14,132 votes. The Conservative candidate, Samuel Williams, received 1,998 votes and 4.6 per cent. The Reform UK candidate, Robert Clarke, received 1,338 votes and 3.1 per cent.
The Liberal Democrat candidate, Nicholas Coombes, received 1,162 votes and 2.7 per cent. The Party of Women candidate, Kellie-Jay Keen, a prominent anti-trans campaigner, received only 196 votes and just half a per cent. The turnout was 69.4 per cent.
Carla Denyer writes for the Voice
forward to engaging further with all of you and working alongside our local councillors to ensure that Bristol Central continues to receive the robust representation it deserves.
Please do contact me if you have any concerns or anything you'd like to make me aware of by emailing me at carla.denyer@ greenparty.org.uk, or by writing to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.
IT’S the changing of the guard at Clifton Rugby Club as John Raine passes on the post of president to Richard Clifton after giving outstanding service over fourteen years, including travelling thousands of miles across the country following the team to away fixtures.
John joined the club in 1966 as a promising young prop forward and quickly found himself thrust into the 1st XV to face Bristol at the Memorial Ground He remembers a drawn game against Gloucester and a Boxing Day victory at Bath. His favourite memory was a narrow loss to Sale in the national John Player Cup competition and other memories include being in one of the first teams to tour the USA and eventually touring overseas with Clifton RATS XV
John said:”It has been a profound privilege and honour to serve Clifton as president for fourteen years and since joining I’ve seen changes including the launching of the successful mini and junior section and the move to Cribbs Causeway with enhanced facilities and more pitches.”
Richard lived near the old Eastfield Road ground in Westbury and as a small boy used to “help” the groundsman on Saturday mornings before, as a 12 year old, becoming the 1st
XV touch judge, to the intrigue of referees. As a teenager, he experienced club tours to Bordeaux and Milan before pulling his boots on and getting on the pitch.
Time away from Bristol brought him back to
live a short walk from the “new” set up at Cribbs Causeway, where he soon integrated himself into club roles including trusteeship.
Both John and Richard share strong memories of past highlights including the club appearing in the high scoring final of the Rugby Football Union’s Intermediate Cup at Twickenham . A play off winning game at Richmond moved the club into national leagues
Richard commented: “It is an honour to be elected as president of this great rugby club. My association is lifelong.”
League action kicks off with an away match at Exeter University on 7 September. There are a number of pre-season matches at Cribbs Causeway
17 August at 12 noon a memorial game in aid of the PROPS charity Clifton Invitational XV v PROPS Barbarians to remember former club character and sponsor Neil Maddocks followed by Clifton 1st XV v Narbeth from West Wales at 1500.
22 August 1St XV v Dings Crusaders at 1930. 31 August at 1500 1st XV v Ebbw Vale
Roger Opie
I STARTED last month's blog by saying the weather had been a bit chilly but I wasn't expecting to be mentioning it again a month later. I've been monitoring the vines closely and I'm pleased to report that, despite the relatively poor weather, they still seem to have formed a decent amount of fruit from their little flowers. Ideal weather for vine flowering is warm and calm and we've had the exact opposite of cool, wet and very windy. Despite this, I'm quite happy with how they’re looking. The small grapes are swelling rapidly but will remain green and hard until the middle of August when they gradually start to soften and ripen. At the moment, each little grape is half the size of a pea – tiny!
In preparation for harvest I have bought some new netting to hang around the fruiting area to deter autumn flocks of
starlings from eating the ripe grapes. Starlings are very clever birds and seem to understand what a net is. Once they see the netting, they make no effort to try and get the grapes so there is no danger of them getting entangled, it’s just a visual deterrent.
I do see a lot of pheasants approaching grapes from a
different angle. Near to harvest time, they walk along the ground looking upwards. When they see some grapes they like the look of, they hop up and down on the spot picking off individual grapes with their beak. Thankfully this method isn’t too destructive because pheasants don’t congregate in large flocks.
On the wine front, we told you last month about our bronze medal win for our sparkling white wine in the IEWAwards. A week later we found out that our sparkling rosé had also won an award. Our sparkling rosé won a bronze medal but this time at the wineGB awards. A great accolade for a young wine that will only get better with time!
hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)
A PLAQUE commemorating popular children’s author Diana Wynne Jones is to be installed outside her former home in Clifton.
Diana Wynne Jones decided she was going to be a writer when she was thirteen years old and began putting stories together for her sisters.
Eventually she became known as a fantasy novelist and wrote more than forty books for children, many of which were centred on magic or magicians.
The plaque, donated by the Clifton and Hotwells Improvement Society (CHIS) will be dedicated at 9 The Polygon on September 7 at 11am by the Lord Lieutenant for Bristol, Mrs Peaches Golding. This will be followed by speeches from Diana Wynne Jones son, Michael Burrow and her biographer Dr. Catherine Butler.
CHIS installs commemorative green plaques at buildings connected with notable people who lived in the Clifton and Hotwells area.
Diana Wynne Jones died in 2011 aged 76.
Whole School Open Morning
Saturday 28th September
Sixth Form Open Evening
Friday 11th October
ACTRESS Miriam Margolyes visited Jacobs Wells Baths to show her support for the restoration project.
She spoke to the team from Trinity Bristol and PH3 Design who are leading the efforts to turn it into a community and cultural hub.
The revamp includes creating a street-facing main entrance and modernisation of the previously unused ground floor Pump Room, transforming it into a cafe-bar and studio.
Miriam Margolyes said: “I’m thrilled to have a chance to visit Jacobs Wells and encourage the council and my fellow-supporters with their exciting plans to return this listed building to the service of the local community. This will help so many to have a goopportunity knocks at last.”
Trinity’s chair of trustees
Chris Luffingham said: “We’re so grateful for Miriam taking the time to visit the project and this comes as we complete key milestones including securing planning and lease completion. This means Trinity can now begin crucial Phase 1 repairs including works to the main hall roof, funded by £1.6 million secured from the DLUHC Community Ownership Fund and match funders.
He thanked Miriam, Bristol City Council, local stakeholders and the Hotwells & Harbourside Community Association, who led campaign efforts to save the building from disposal.
“We are excited to now be able to move forward with our efforts to bring the building back into use as a multidisciplinary venue for arts, heritage, youth, community and educational use,” he added.
ONE of the longest running community organisations in Bristol is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer. Hotwells and Cliftonwood Community Association (H&CCA) was formed in 1974.
Since then it has been helping local people to create events and opportunities where they can get to know each other.
Outlining some of the projects with which the association has been involved, its chair Rachel McNally said: “We ran Hope Centre for twenty-odd years as a buzzing community
arts centre and we set up West Bristol ArtsTrail, profiling over one hundred artists. We now manage Cumberland Piazza, our biggest public open space. in Hotwells”.
The Piazza beside the Cumberland Basin Flyover was originally designed as a park.
“We have transformed Cumberland Piazza from a grey and unloved space into a colourful location with a skate spot, places to sit and enjoy the views while the bees buzz around the lavender. Most recently we ran a successful community campaign with Trinity
to ensure that Jacobs Wells Baths is kept for community use. We are delighted to see this historic building coming back to life,” said Rachel.
=“We support grass roots community projects and run citywide campaigns. We cannot do this work without our dedicated teams of community volunteers and our community partners,” said Rachel.
The association’s celebrations kicked off with a birthday picnic on Cumberland Piazza.
A FORMER tea-room in the heart of Clifton Village which is believed to be the ‘birthplace’ of Winnie the Pooh has been put up for sale.
The tea-room is thought to have last brewed up a cuppa towards the end of the 1940s and was then converted into the house which stands at the junction of Wellington Terrace and Royal York Crescent.
“There are houses that have an interesting tale to tell, and this adorable Grade 2 Listed building is most definitely in that
category!” said Martin Haigh of Haighs estate agency which is handling the sale.
“We think the property was built about 1790. With its charming curved frontage it
served as a tea shop for several decades,” said Martin.
It is believed that the tea room was frequented by the Author A. A. Milne (who was creating stories inspired by his son Christopher's teddy bear) and a well-known cartoonist and artist, Ernest H. Shepard.
It is thought it was during one of these visits to the tea room that the first sketched ideas of a "silly old bear" were drawn and discussed by the author and illustrator, and Winnie the Pooh was born, said Martin Haigh.
Later on Ernest Shepard created an oil painting of Winnie (the only one he ever painted) and donated it to the tea shop, where it was on proud display for many years.
The painting, oval in shape, three feet tall and just over two feet wide, was sold around twenty-five years ago. It is now in a museum in Winnipeg, Canada.
The four-storey building, which is affectionately known by local people as “Pooh Corner”, is on the market for £675,000.
The Wave is a slice of the ocean, inland near Bristol. Offering perfect, guaranteed waves for surfers of all abilities, it’s the perfect place to learn to surf this summer.
This year the launch of the 'Little Rippers' session allows for children as young as four to learn to surf. Or if you just want to get in for a splash, Play In The Bay is a summer favourite. For others looking to kick start their surfer journey, look no further than a beginner lesson. Already a keen surfer? The Wave offers great sessions from intermediate to expert every day.
But The Wave is more than just surfing. With free parking and free entry, families can spend a day at The Wave with or without getting wet. The play park and skate ramp keeps kids of all ages entertained for hours, and the shoreline café and restaurant offer all day dining, great tasting coffee and a licensed bar. And if you didn't want to drive home… book a night in a glamping style safari tent located right next to the lake.
The Wave is an unmissable trip this holiday. Visit The Wave just off Junction 17 of the M5, near Cribbs Causeway.
Down councillors George Calascione and Serena Ralston
WE are excited to announce our first ward surgery on Friday 2nd August, 12 - 1.30pm at Redland Library. Our monthly surgeries, which will take place on the first Friday of each month, at the same time and location.
We are looking forward to meeting you and hearing your local concerns. No appointment necessary.
We have heard from many of you that waste issues are some of your biggest concerns. Councillors across the city are hearing the same.
Whether it’s overflowing bins, garbage littering the streets, uncollected recycling or fly tipping, we have all seen it and noticed that it’s been a real problem lately.
We’re sure you’re aware that during the last 13 years of austerity, government funding from national government to local councils has been severely cut. As a result, the last administration cut the budget to Bristol Waste. A long-planned rerouting, with fewer collection crews, took effect from May this year. It hasn’t been successful. An expanding population places more demand on the service, and cardboard packaging from increased online purchasing fills up the lorries more quickly, so they have to return more often to their base. Meanwhile the fewer crews are under pressure to cover their routes quickly, to ensure that the whole city is still covered. Clifton Down is disproportionately affected at this time of year due to the high number of students. Many struggle to clear their flats and deal with their unwanted possessions.
What is the council doing about it?
=Bristol Waste has had most of its funding restored by Council this year, and are hiring more operators. Meanwhile they have undertaken a root cause analysis to develop a better long term solution. All of your complaints are now being centrally recorded, so that streets with repeatedly missed collections can be identified. We have asked Bristol Waste to track and target streets with repeated problems.
So please continue to report waste issues by email to your councillors, or even better, straight onto the council website.
Is it going to improve?
Government funding to councils fell, in real terms, by a whopping 40%, between 2010 and 2020. Labour’s manifesto pledged to ´unlock fairer funding ‘to local councils, so we are hopeful that things will improve. Here in Bristol, future service plans and the next recycling contract will be developed to deal with new legal responsibilities and growing costs, then a cross party committee will determine how to deliver a more reliable service and better recycling in future. We councillors will continue to work with the university and other partners, to try to reduce waste and increase repair and reuse in the city. Bristol has the best recycling rate compared to other cities, due in part to you our residents and our local culture, but we hope to do even better.
Spotlight on Oakfield Residents Association. We’ll be focusing on a different community group in our column each month.
Oakfield Residents Association is the local Residents’ Group for the area bounded by Pembroke Road, Queen's Road, Alma Road and Whiteladies Road. The association promotes the local community and the welfare of its residents, whilst working to maintain the character of the area. It aims to promote the sense of community holding meetings to discuss matters of local interest (e.g planning applications), give ideas to help improve the community and provide assistance to members to rectify problems that occur locally, acting on behalf of the community through engagement with local Councillors, Bristol City Council and other organisations. Examples are the bin stores on Oakfield Road and Oakfield Place, the proposed change of use of Barley House and Oakfield House, the pillar surrounded by fencing on the corner of Oakfield Grove, and the many HMOs within the area. There are also social events like cheese and wine evenings and Christmas gatherings to meet your neighbours in person whom you may have walked by many times!
ORA also works alongside Arlington Garden Association supporting the only public green space within our bounds and hosts events in the gardens. You can join ORA by emailing OakfieldResAss@gmail. com, they are always looking for more interested volunteers to help with litter picks, attending local meetings and arranging social events.
Greener High Streets grant scheme. This is a small grant (£500 - £5000) available to small and medium sized business on certain designated streets. It can be used for buying and installing new equipment that reduces carbon emissions, to cut utility bills or to improve energy efficiency. Please see the council website for more details.
=And finally, a small success story!
We are delighted that the frontage of Be in Bristol has finally been smartened up. Since it closed as a bar several years ago, the frontage has become an eyesore which is unfair on local businesses and residents. We will continue to press the agents about the future of this building which has been derelict for far too long.
Serena Ralston cllr.serena.ralston@bristol.gov.uk George Calascione cllr.george.calascione@bristol. gov.uk
from your Green Party Clifton councillors Paula O’Rourke
HELLO from Paula and Jerome,
During the pre-election period, the Council can make no major decisions and all meetings stop to allow for political campaigning. This means, however, that once the election is over, all meetings start up with a vengeance, so your councillors have been busy in the last couple of weeks. Days and evenings which had been spent out knocking on doors have been swapped for days and evenings attending meetings. We rather enjoyed the former but also endure the latter, as that is the life of the local councillor.
Despite the call to be in City Hall, we have been out and about quite a bit – mostly sorting out waste issues – but also looking at street safety and trying to ensure that the changes that are afoot will benefit Clifton. It is these changes that we want to concentrate on this month.
CHANGES TO TWO MAJOR CLIFTON SITES – ONE LOVED, ONE LOATHED
Bristol Zoo Gardens site
Having taken almost a year, the section 106 agreement is now agreed. This is the legal document which enforces the conditions put on the approval when it was granted by the Development Control Committee. Getting this agreed has been a long process, as there are lots of conditions and the planners wanted to ensure that it was rigorous. Having spoken to the Head of Planning, we are assured that the department, although generally overstretched, has given this application the detailed attention it deserves.
The issuing of the section 106 means a future developer implementing the scheme must ensure:
• 20% of the housing on site is affordable (30 homes for social rent and 10 for first time buyers).
• Free public access to the gardens is maintained 365 days of the year between 8am and 5pm or 7pm, depending on the time of year.
• The iconic entrance building is re-purposed to become a Conservation Hub, opened to the public with community rooms and a café.
Prior to the application being
submitted we argued hard for the Zoo Trustees to apply for a ‘right of way’ through the garden but we could not persuade the Director to do that. However, we believe that the s106 gives security to the public that the gardens will be kept open for the hours listed, as this can only be changed by going back to the planners and opening a public consultation - so nothing can be done ‘behind closed doors’.
There is a six-week period now when there could be an application for Judicial Review (JR). A JR could only be applied for on the basis of incorrect procedure and we believe that the process has been very thorough and correct and (while we are not lawyers) we feel that there is little expectation of a JR succeeding.
When the Zoo first announced its intention to close, Paula put in long hours in meetings with the Our World consortium who hoped to use the site for a very innovative and creative purpose, but sadly, the idea did not develop into a serious bid. The Zoo Trustees were determined to get the best value for the land to allow them to continue their conservation work and develop their alternative site, so selling the land with planning permission was their choice and it made any alternative use unviable.
Like many, we are sad to see the Zoo gone, but we cannot continue to hope that it will return and must accept that there will be homes on the garden site. On the positive side, the gardens, which were previously only accessible for those paying to go to the Zoo, will now be open to the public. There will be four entry/exit points, which will encourage pedestrians walking to the Downs to use the gardens as their route. There will also be an education centre and an environmental hub and café in the historic entryway building, which will offer public amenity of value.
Clifton on Ice/WH Smith site
We have very recently been notified that THAT Group have sold the site in Clifton village to a
Brighton-based developer. They are called Spear Development Ltd. Our research has revealed that they are a reasonably small development company, which gives us hope that they are not in the market for land-banking. We have been assured that they intend to actively progress the development of the site and are considering using the same planning approval, for the mixeduse development. However, we hope to soon meet the developer in person and will have more firsthand information soon.
Paula O'Rourke: cllr.paula. orourke@bristol.gov.uk
Jerome Thomas: cllr.jerome. thomas@bristol.gov.uk
Local Area Committees
We’re sorry to say that we’re still awaiting news of the nine new Area Committees. The outgoing council agreed that nine new groups of wards will be formed to allocated developer funds offered to communities. They will also ensure more direct input into council decisions on many local services and issues like road safety and parking.
To date the staffing and meetings for these committees hasn’t been made clear. While funds are limited in our neighbourhood as there’s less new development there are still projects we know are needed.
The excessive delays to the Cranbrook Road crossing have been disappointing. We’ve heard that highway officers have been appointed after the previous team left. This has caused yet more delays to finalising the details and finding a contractor. This has been affecting many schemes across the city and we’re sorry for the fitful progress. We’re hoping this can be built in the next few months.
Council presses new government to tackle austerity
Bristol City Council passed a Green motion in July committing them to write to the new Labour government asking for a sustained uplift to local authority funding. This is urgently needed to cover shortfalls in adult social care, education and other key services,
Martin Fodor: cllr.martin.fodor@ bristol.gov.uk Fi Hance: cllr.fi.hance@bristol.gov. uk
WE are Clifton residents and use the Downs regularly.
I write in particular on behalf of my late mother who had a home on the edge of the Downs in Saville Road. She died last December a few weeks short of her 102 birthday. Sadly she had to spend the last three years of her life, in the home of her dreams bought after a lifetime of work and serving in the RAF during WW2, staring at the sight of illegally parked vans, motor homes and caravans and cars parked on the grass adjacent to her home.
On her behalf we made numerous calls to the Downs Rangers office, parking services and messages to the Mayor pointing out that our Downs, certainly the jewel of Bristol, was being systematically trashed and nobody seemed to care. The Ranger never answers their phone but despite his polite message vowing to call back, they never did. I even called in at their office at the top of Pembroke Road offering to distribute leaflets on vehicles pointing out the illegality of parking on the grass, but these were never supplied. Calls to the number for parking issues on the Downs signage no longer exists. The emails to the mayor’s office were eventually responded to in a very generic, impersonal and political manner and offered nothing except excuses.
Apart from the numerous van dwellers in Parrys Lane and Saville Road these now have spread to most of Circular Road. The maximum four hours parking is laughed off by the owners or tenants of these vehicles. Many have been there for weeks, months and some years now! These, sometimes huge, vehicles have ruined the grass verges and damaged many of the historic kerbs. As regular users of the Downs we daily witness the building and human waste, rubbish and other detritus spread all around.
It is currently a disgrace and an embarrassment to those visiting our beautiful city.
Your following article intimates that those properties adjacent to the Downs could be taxed further to police it better? To many that would be seen to be a further attack on the middle classes and those owners represent a tiny proportion of those who use the Downs for recreation. However, I am sure they (we) would be willing to pay if we thought it would restore our Downs to the beautiful space it once was.
Nick and Jane Bailey
I LIVE off Whiteladies road near the Downs but never go there so why would I want to pay for something I don't use; the haves seem to want it all yet again. If thecouncil did something about the homeless services they provide then people wouldn't have to pitch tents or live in vans. Is it not a public space for everyone to use not just those that live there?
Barbara Bennett
I HAVE the privilege of living near the Downs and use this wonderful space all the time. I’d happily pay £20 a year - a lot cheaper than a gym. Past failures to enforce infringements and to advertise the by-laws has given rise to so much selfish behaviour that all users are suffering. It’s only a matter of time before a car will drive through a family picnic, or an unaware elderly couple. Can we not have low posts round the area to stop cars and caravans?
A resident
I WAS delighted to read in Clifton Voice that there is a possibility of security patrols on the Downs.
I have lived on the edge of the Downs for 34 years and have never known the area to be so dirty and uncared for. For seven years I have regularly walked my dogs there but now I am loathe to do this and instead drive to Ashton Court where the grounds are clean and cared for. The bushes on the Downs are full of food rubbish (leftovers from the constant barbecues); human excrement and tissues; and other disgusting litter which unfortunately dogs are prone to eat! I often see rats and am sure that there is a high chance of a health issue here. I have confronted some groups of picnickers who have brought their cars on to the grass but have received abuse and threats when I have pointed out that this is just not allowed. Certainly many years ago there used to be notices pointing out that barbecues; cycling; littering were not allowed - could these not be reinstated? And please could we have one or two toilet blocks re-opened? This is a lovely space in the centre of our city - please can we look after it better? I am happy to volunteer for any improving work needed.
Victoria Gordon
We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Clifton clinic on the picturesque Alma Vale Road. Having recently consolidated our Bedminster location into our original Clifton site, we have more than doubled our space to better serve you. Our new, larger facility is designed to provide the best chiropractic care, sports massage, and soft tissue therapy in a warm and welcoming environment.
STARTING the day with a bike ride to work can feel invigorating, but nothing puts the brakes on that morning buzz like a slipped chain.
STARTING the day with a bike ride to work can feel invigorating, but nothing puts the brakes on that morning buzz like a slipped chain.
Recently, on several chilly mornings, I found myself wrestling with a stubborn bike chain. Picture this: my hands, slick with oil and numb from the cold, struggling to fix the chain so I could push on. It turns out, the root of the problem was a dry chain that desperately needed lubrication – a simple maintenance step I’d overlooked in the hustle of daily life. Just like my bike needs regular oiling to function smoothly, our bodies require consistent care to stay in top form.
At Kasa, we understand that pain is more than just a physical symptom—it's your body’s way of signalling deeper issues. That's why we take a holistic, patient-centric approach to your care. Our team of expert chiropractors are dedicated to identifying the root cause of your discomfort, ensuring that your treatment plan is tailored to meet your unique needs.
site. This ensures that we get a complete picture of your health from the start, enabling us to provide precise, effective treatments.
Recently, on several chilly mornings, I found myself wrestling with a stubborn bike chain. Picture this: my hands, slick with oil and numb from the cold, struggling to fix the chain so I could push on. It turns out, the root of the problem was a dry chain that desperately needed lubrication – a simple maintenance step I’d overlooked in the hustle of daily life.
But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to you, the person behind the pain. We believe in not just treating the symptoms but in understanding your personal journey, experiences, and goals. Our treatments are gentle yet effective, focusing on realigning your spine, alleviating nerve impingements, and facilitating your body’s natural healing processes.
Just like my bike needs regular oiling to function smoothly, our bodies require consistent care to stay in top form.
Often, we don’t notice the ‘maintenance’ we need until something goes wrong. We might skip sleep, indulge in less-thannutritious food, or skimp on relaxation and exercise because our schedules are packed from dawn to dusk. But just as a dry bike chain can
Our beautiful Clifton clinic is equipped with a state-of-the-art digital X-ray machine, allowing us to conduct comprehensive assessments right on-
Often, we don’t notice the ‘maintenance’ we need until something goes wrong. We might skip sleep, indulge in less-thannutritious food, or skimp on relaxation and exercise because our schedules are packed from dawn to dusk. But just as a dry bike chain can
eventually slip, our bodies can only handle neglect for so long before they signal for help.
Beyond providing immediate relief, we are dedicated to guiding and empowering you towards a lasting, active, and pain-free life. At Kasa, we don’t just fix the pain—we help you reclaim your health and well-being.
eventually slip, our bodies can only handle neglect for so long before they signal for help.
Come visit us at our new, spacious clinic on Alma Vale Road. Experience the Kasa difference and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you. Your journey to wellness starts here!
To prevent breakdowns, think of selfcare as your daily dose of oil. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking moments to rest your mind.
To prevent breakdowns, think of selfcare your daily dose of oil. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking moments to rest your mind.
Regular exercise keeps your system running smoothly, much like how oiled chain glides over the gears. And don’t forget about professional tune-ups. Integrating routine chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy be likened to the regular maintenance that keeps your bike – and your body balanced and in perfect alignment.
By addressing potential issues before they turn into problems, you can your body’s ‘chain’ from slipping off
So, let’s make a pact to keep our chains well-oiled, both literally and metaphorically. Your body (and your bike) will thank you for it, ensuring
Charles
Chiropractor | Director | Kasa 0117 974 www.kasachiro.com
WE are now in a time of change and of opportunity.
After weeks of being out campaigning over evenings and weekends and an exciting general election, I’m looking forward to working with the new government and all new and returning local MPs.
I welcome the government’s commitment to boosting police numbers and making neighbourhood policing more visible.
The King’s Speech also demonstrated there will be action on anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and on tackling violent crime, specifically on male violence against women and girls and knife crime.
I am pleased to say I will be spending a community engagement day in South Gloucestershire in mid-August, where I’ll meet with community groups and support services for victims of crime.
This visit is an opportunity for me to get out, meet people faceto-face and hear your concerns and
ideas about policing in your area.
I will also be holding a public forum in the evening on Thursday August 15.
I feel strongly that being out in the community is vital to understanding how we solve the unique challenges we face. The details to book on to the forum will be added to the website, www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk, soon.
This meeting will also help me to shape ideas for my Police and Crime Plan, but it won’t be the last opportunity to have your say.
The draft plan will be published next month for consultation, giving you a chance to share your views on both the plan and how it’s implemented.
During July, I launched a new initiative called Police Question Time (PQT), designed to make it easier for you to voice your opinions on local policing.
I will be posing questions monthly about the performance of Avon and Somerset Police to Chief
Constable Sarah Crew.
The first session was live streamed on the Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner
Facebook page on July 17, and you can watch a recording there.
Another new initiative I’m pleased to announce is free bystander intervention training, helping night-time economy workers to recognise the signs of sexual harassment to those working in this sector, like pubs, nightclubs, and hospitality.
You can sign up to the in-person or virtual sessions at tinyurl.com/ ywrppa2v.
Ensuring safety in our communities requires proactive measures.
By empowering night time economy workers with bystander intervention training, we can enable them to play a key role in creating safer nightlife environments.
This training is essential for preventing male violence against women and girls, and fostering a
WE are now fully in the swing of summer and, while the weather this year has been unpredictable at best, we should (hopefully) see some warmer, dryer days ahead.
The school holidays are getting underway, and readers who have yet to book a holiday but are still eager to relax or have some adventures – whether that’s connecting with nature, or soaking up some art – are in luck.
In order to get a dose of wholesome fun, you really don’t need to go, well, anywhere.
For when it comes to our summer holidays, there really is no place like home.
Who knew that the solitude of the West of England could help recharge all our batteries?
Who realised that we could all feel reinvigorated by strolling through the gorgeous hills of our picturesque countryside – a walker’s paradise – where you can see for miles?
And who appreciated that from nationally-acclaimed galleries and museums to festivals and sporting activities – think of those regular summer fixtures at Gloucester-
shire Cricket Club, and Bath City FC – all the family can have a healthy dose of fun, right here in the West?
Well, the secret is out! The West of England is consistently rated as a top staycation destination, and for good reason.
From play and learning at family-friendly favourites like We The Curious, which I am delighted has now reopened after two long years, to hidden gems such as Saltford Brass Mill or Kingswood Museum – who I am backing through my mayoral fund to help smaller tourist sites – this incredible region is jam-packed with top places to explore and enjoy.
That’s why I am encouraging all of you to once again make the most of our fantastic local attractions and sites, and get behind them this summer.
My Explore Local campaign has already helped bring thousands of tourists back to our great region, but there is a way to go.
Tourism numbers have gone up by nearly 10% since I launched the campaign,
secure and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
Together, let’s keep building a safer, more inclusive community.
I look forward to meeting many of you across South Gloucestershire and working with you over the coming weeks, months and years to achieve our shared goals.
In the meantime, please feel free to reach out to me and my office with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you may have at www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
but are still down slightly versus before the pandemic.
So if this is the summer of the great British ‘staycation’, let’s take full advantage by visiting the truly amazing attractions we have locally.
We are so lucky to live in such a brilliant part of the world. Let’s all get out there, soak in the atmosphere (and sun, fingers crossed!) and enjoy a proper local staycation.
A big bonus of keeping it local and travelling less far is we can save some cash during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which I know is still tough on residents, and help save the planet too.
LIFE can be fast-paced and stressful, with tight deadlines, caring responsibilities, managing finances, and continual personal uncertainty. This can cause stress levels to rise, leaving you continually drained of energy, Stress overload can cause physical symptoms like headaches, tension in the neck and shoulders, dizziness, fatigue, and poor sleep. It also impacts mental well-being by causing increased irritability, low self-esteem, aggressive or defensive behaviour, poor concentration, difficulty in decision-making, and uncontrollable thoughts.
When you're under stress, the refrain / advice to 'just relax' can feel more like a painful reminder than a helpful suggestion. We all know that relaxation is key to managing stress, but the real question is, how do we achieve it in the face of life's relentless pressures and demands?
Investing our hope in the affordability or opportunity to take a break or a holiday may
not help. Sometimes, stress travels with us, building up ahead of our trip, during and after. Then you feel further deflated and guilty. So, how can we tackle stress?
· Eating a healthy diet as junk food activates stress hormones, and its impact on our weight and appearance will only worsen things.
· Exercise regularly; do what you can for as long as possible.
· Prioritise sleep by sticking to the same sleep times and aiming for 6 to 9 hours of sleep, also creating a relaxing sleeping environment (not too bright, noisy or warm)
Did you know that spending just 15 minutes in a forest area can lower your blood pressure, heart rate, and levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leaving you feeling calmer and refreshed? Research has shown that looking at flowers or images of natural environments can have similar relaxing effects if you cannot get
0117 9246579
18 Kellaway Avenue, Westbury Park, Bristol, BS6 7XR
to a forest. This is an excellent reason to spend more time in our local parks.
Did you also know that practising guided imagery by imagining yourself in a peaceful and safe place can activate your body's relaxation response, lowering your heart rate and blood pressure, clearing your mind and lifting your mood?
Most importantly, if you know someone or are facing life's pressures, please learn to make room and time for them to share with you, actively listening while offering all the practical, generous support you can.
\Kindness has the most transformative healing potential, especially when provided with dignity and thoughtfulness. Be kind, share kindness, and speak kindness.
Whatever your circumstances, Kellaway Pharmacy is your friendly local pharmacy. We are here for you.
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FOR many of Bristol’s streets a simple name often conceals a fascinating story. For example, the road that runs from Cossins Road to Harcourt Road is named in memory of William Ellis Metford, a talented inventor born on October 4, 1824, at Taunton, and educated at Dorset’s Sherborne School.
William came to Bristol as an engineering apprentice with Brunel’s Bristol and Exeter railway; later he worked on both the Wilts, Somerset and Weymouth Railways. He was elected an Associate of the Institute of Civil Engineers, leading to a senior appointment with the East India Railway. Sadly, illness forced return to England, but his engineering and design background, together with his experiences during the Indian Mutiny led to the realisation that a better rifle was needed. His knowledge of firearms resulted in several improvements to rifle
and ballistics design and ultimately led to him design and develop an improved sportsman’s rifle.
Thomas Francis Fremantle
(the 3rd Baron Cottesloe), who owned land in Redland was a strong advocate of his designs, possibly explaining why William returned to Bristol, settling in Redland Villa, Elm Lane until his death.
Thus, in leafy Redland he spent the rest of his life working to develop an improved rifle, and other inventions including optical instruments and even a mechanism for cutting precious stones. Perhaps the Baron’s patronage led him to become the proprietor and sole inventor of
Diamond unmarked platinum ring, calculated diamond weight 4.5 carats approx.
Sold for £11,500
the ‘Metford Sporting Rifle’ which won four gold medals, was prized by marksmen as a consistent match winner for many years.
Ironically it was William’s experience in the Indian Mutiny that led to that design, which formed the basis for many modern rifles, not least the Lee-Enfield, used by the Indian soldiers who fought so gallantly on our side in the Second World War. (Coincidentally a memorial to those brave Sikhs was unveiled by HRH the Duke of Kent at Castle Park on Tuesday April 2, 2019.)
Yet another of his pyrotechnic experiments included work in double rocket propulsion, predating the work of the famous American Rocket pioneer, Robert H Goddard.
Another of William’s innovations was a scheme for traffic calming in Bristol. I do not know if his proposals for calming our nineteenth century traffic were adopted, but I expect
they would have been markedly different from the motorist enraging schemes we have today. I once asked what the letters ETM seen on some large lorries stood for – I was told, ‘Exasperates The Motorist’. I wonder if William Metford thought up a similar acronym.
One of William’s home skills, which if carried out today would almost certainly result in a complete lockdown with surrounding streets cordoned off and the neighbours evacuated from their houses. What did he do at home that would evince such a response? He just used to make his own ammunition in the kitchen, filling his cartridges with black powder. I don’t know if he also mixed his own powder,–probably! William is buried in Redland parish churchyard, where the memorial to William and his two wives is on the Woodstock roadside of the churchyard.
© Julian Lea-Jones 2024
info@clevedonsalerooms.com clevedonsalerooms.com 01934 830 111
The Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, K.C.S.I., Knight Commander’s set of insignia Sold for £12,500
Early 19th century double-sided micromosaic, porphyry and unmarked gold bonbonniere Sold for £11,000
CLEVEDON VALUATION DAYS Clevedon Salerooms, every Monday 10am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm BRISTOL VALUATION DAYS* Tuesday 13th August, Stoke Lodge, Shirehampton Rd, BS9 1BN, 10am–3pm
*Join Chris Yeo and Izzie Balmer, as seen on BBC's Antiques Roadshow and Antiques Road Trip, along with our valuation team.
Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT
THE Sri Lankan Civil War lasted 26 years killing an estimated 100,000 people. It was fought between the Sinhalese dominated state and the Tamil Tigers separatist group. This novel begins in a village in Jaffna, in the Tamil north of Sri Lanka. In 1981, we meet 15 year old Sashi who lives with her parents and her four brothers, Niranjan, Dayalan, Seelan & Aran. She is boiling water for tea, when the kettle slips from her hand, pouring scalding water on her stomach. Her screams are heard by a passing student known as K. He rushes into the house, snatches a bowl of eggs off the kitchen table and cracks them open onto the wound, soothing the burn . Sashi’s stomach heals leaving just a tiny scar. Thus begins a lifelong friendship. K gets 4 A grades in his school exams and plans to go to the
Not a River by Selva Almada, translated by Anne McDermott MEN struggle to raise a huge catch from the bottom of the river. A two-hundred-and-twentypound ray: fleshy, grey, ugly, imbued with old odours, with the stench of the river. From the boat, Enero accidentally shoots his gun. In the water, El Negro fights to drag the monstrous creature above the surface. On land, they hang the ray from a tree, displaying a putrid trophy which the island’s inhabitants come jealously to view.
They have been coming to these islands to fish for years. Once they were three: Enero, El
University of Jaffna medical school. Sasha also dreams of becoming a doctor, but she fails her Zoology practical, feeling sick whilst attempting to dissect a shark. She decides to make a fresh start and travels with Naranjan to the capital Colombo to live with her grandmother. She attends the local school, befriending Hasna, the only Muslim girl in her class. Meanwhile, back in Jaffna, the Tigers kill 13 soldiers. The Sinhalese, in revenge, burn and loot Tamil shops in Colombo. Sashi and her grandmother are surrounded by a Sinhalese mob. They escape, but their home is burnt to the ground. They return to Jaffna, where Sashi is visited by Hasna’s father with news that Naranjan has been killed by the Sinhalese. The war escalates and Dayalan and Seelan leave Jaffna with K to join the Tigers. Sashi
Negro and Eusebio. Not blood but brothers nonetheless. Eusebio dead, they bring his son Tilo, replacing their missing part with the closest thing they can find to a double.
But the Edenic land, or its people, or its memories, held in the trees, wants to spit them out: “El Negro moves with care, with respect, as if entering a church. Dainty as a guazuncho deer. But of course he ends up treading on a twig, a bunch of curupí pods, and the result is deafening. The crackle of dry shells echoes through the alders and timbós, up and out of the dense circle of woodland. Announcing the presence of an
was
starts medical school where she is visited by K, who brings a wounded Tiger to her for medical treatment. K persuades Sashi to secretly work in a Tiger field hospital whilst continuing her medical studies. This is a beautiful, nuanced and compassionate novel, with deep moral complexity. It provides a vivid, brutally honest and even handed picture of the Civil War, recounting the atrocities committed by both sides. Above all, it is a story of resilience, loss, human connection and survival. You can find this novel, along with many others at Bishopston Library. Please come and visit us at 100 Gloucester Road and obtain a library card, giving you free internet access and the opportunity to borrow from a catalogue of over two million books.
intruder… He emerges. The sky is orange, the air soupy and warm. A shiver runs down his spine to his backside. He turns, looks over his shoulder. He could swear the woods have closed up behind him.” The short sections are full of sharp noises, still days punctuated by gunshots, snapping wood and thunderclaps reflected in the staccato punctuation.
Almada’s every sentence conjures a remarkable mixture of beauty and threat. The heat pervades each page, lending a shimmering fugue to every scene and turning the ray to rot. Enero cuts it down and throws it back in the water. The waste is shocking,
Clifton Library opening hours
Monday 10am-2pm
Tuesday 1pm-5pm
Thursday 1pm-5pm
Friday 10am-2pm
Saturday 1pm-5pm
the vanity of their hunt apparent and the return too late for the river – and the island it holds – is already disturbed.
As time shifts between past tragedies and present danger, the trio must surely sense something pressing in on them. Yet on they go, telling Tilo the same stories of his father that he knows by heart, playing cards, dancing, drinking, and the reader is propelled with them into this dark, intimate story.
Various days
n YOGA IN REDLAND
Tuesdays 6.30pm & 7.45
Wednesdays 7.30pm
Suitable for beginners & improvers
Yoga in Clifton Saturdays 10.30am
Suitable for improvers Text Charlotte on 07533732035 www.yogabristol.com
n BLAISE COMMUNITY
GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, BS10 7QS. Open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10-2, plant table always available. Interesting walled kitchen garden, free to enter, new volunteers welcomed. Café open 10-2 on 15 June and 13 July
n WEST OF ENGLAND BRIDGE CLUB based at RAFA Club, 38 Eastfield, Henleaze. Five sessions every week, catering for different standards. Thursday afternoon is Improvers. Monday and Friday afternoon is for more capable players; this is an EBU recognised session. You may come alone to any afternoon session; a partner will be found. The evening sessions are on Wednesdays and Fridays, and are open to pairs. www. woebridgeclub.co.uk or contact Secretary, Chris Frew, on 0117 962 5281.
Monday
n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579
n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. New members welcome. See www.dickenssociety.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875 for further details.
n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON AREA DISCUSSION GROUP
meet at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday 9.45am to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to help to solve some of today's challenging issues with good company, tea and biscuits - contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628. n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in
the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2-4 pm. Interesting speakers, crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. Our lively, friendly and inclusive group welcomes visitors at any meeting. Call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917
Tuesday
n WESTBURY PARK WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meets on the first Tuesday of every month in the Girl Guide Hut on Westmorland Road from 7.00 - 9.30pm. We are an active and friendly group with a varied programme plus extra sessions for craft, coffee, book clubs, walks etc. Visitors are always welcome and for more information do call Sue on 07813795936 or email westburyparkwi@gmail.com n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL is recruiting new members We are a 'threshold choir' actively looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn soothing and uplifting songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join or support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices. org. Visit www.facebook.com/ CompanionVoicesBristol and www. companionvoices.org
n BRISTOL BRANCH OF THE KNITTING AND CROCHET GUILD meet on the third Tuesday of the month, 10am-12pm, usually in the function room at the Boston Tea Party on Whiteladies Road. Free to attend, all welcome (members and non-members). We cater for beginners through to experienced makers. Email BristolKCG@gmail. com for more info.
Wednesday
n HENLEAZE CHORAL SOCIETY
We are a thriving, non- audition choir performing mainly classical repertoire. Rehearsals take place at Henleaze Bowling Club, Grange Court Road on Wednesdays 7.309.00pm New members welcome. Go to www.henleazechoralsociety. org.uk for more information and contact details.
n CLIFTON CRAFTERS
We all have craft items we started and are now lurking in a drawer unloved – dig them out and come and share with us a morning of knitting, crochet, tapestry, rag rugs or whatever you would love to resurrect or mend. Clifton Library every Wednesday 10.30am12.30pm
n BLAISE COMMUNITY
GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, open Wednesday and Saturday
10-2. Originally a walled kitchen garden. Free to enter. We’re looking for volunteers. Our Café (+ homemade cakes) open 10-2, 18 March and 8 April.
n WELCOME WEDNESDAY
Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your area. Call 0117 435 0063.
n CLIFTON CRAFTERS We all have craft items we started and are now lurking in a drawer unloved –dig them out and come and share a morning of knitting, crochet, tapestry, rag rugs or whatever you would love to resurrect or mend! Every Wednesday in October at Clifton Library 10 30-12 30pm. n GOLDEN HILL WI Meets the first Wednesday of every month. 1-3pm. Golden Hill Sports Ground, Wimbledon Rd, BS6 7YA A vibrant, lively new afternoon WI in BS6. We have an exciting and varied programme to offer to members. For more information contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@ gmail.com.
n CLIFTON WOMENS INSTITUTE
We are a friendly bunch who meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Alma Church, Alma Road, Clifton BS8 2HG, from7.30pm. Anyone interested in coming to a meeting as a visitor is most welcome (£5). Visit our blog cliftonwi.blogspot. com for forthcoming events. For information about us contact thecliftonwi@gmail.com
Thursday
n LOCAL CHOIR ACTIVELY RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See website www.henburysingers.org contact secretary at secretary@ henburysingers.org.
n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR are now recruiting new members. We are a friendly auditioned choir of between 30 and 40 singers. All voice parts are welcome. We rehearse on a Thursday evening at Bristol Grammar School from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. If interested please contact Julie at membership@ bristolbach.org.uk
n HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feeling stressed? Come and try our drop in sessions run by trained
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715
volunteers. Healing/Reiki is a gentle, relaxing, complementary therapy that helps restore balance and vitality. Used in healthcare to reduce stress. Donation basis. Venue: Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. s 3.30 pm to 4.45 pm. For information and dates, contact Selina at Bristol Healing Group: T:0117 9466434 or E:selinanewton@yahoo.co.uk.
n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR
Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278.
n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE
For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org
Friday
n HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB. Come along at 5.45pm on Fridays to see if bowling could be the sport for you. Coaching available. Experienced bowlers welcome. Situated in Grange Court Road, by Newman Hall. This is a friendly Club with good bowling facilities and social events throughout the year. Phone, Tom Logan, on 0117 962 1669 or email hbcsec@ henleazebowlingclub.org.uk for further details.
n BRISTOL SPANISH CIRCLE. We meet every month from September to June, usually on the last Friday of the month, at St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze. For more info, see https://www.spanishcirclebristol. com/.
n F OLK NIGHT every third Wednesday of the month at the Victoria inn, Chock lane, Westbury on Trym. 7.30-10.30pm. All musicians and singers welcome or just pop in and listen. Call 0117 959 0834
Saturday
n SEA MILLS REPAIR CAFE offers sewing, woodwork, general, electrical and cycle repairs at the Methodist Church, Sea Mills Square, from 10am-12pm, every second Saturday of the month (except August). This is a voluntary service run by experienced repairers. Donations welcome. FFI see our Facebook page @ seamillsrepaircafe or email: repaircafe.seamills@gmail.com
TWO events are coming up at St Peter’s Hospice – Open Gardens on Sunday 8 September and an Art Exhibition on Saturday 14 September.
The garden is open for the public to enjoy from10am to 4pm. St Peter’s Hospice gardener Anneke van Eijkern and a team of garden volunteers will be on hand to welcome visitors and answer questions.
Anneke said: “It’s a privilege to manage a garden that means so much to people. The gardens offer comfort and enjoyment to our patients and their family and friends, as well as to our staff, who do such a wonderful job. I think the gardens are part of what makes St Peter’s so special and we’re really looking forward to sharing that with our local communities.”
The gardens are an integral part of St Peter’s Hospice and create a calm and peaceful environment for patients and families. Pathways around the gardens are smooth and flat
so that wheelchair users can enjoy the space and explore. The grounds include a lowallergen Courtyard Garden, small Japanese inspired garden, sensory beds and an enclosed walled garden. Throughout the day there will be a range of activities including talks and workshops, tours and music. Special guest, RHS gold-
ONE of the highlights of the year in our community, the Westbury on Trym Village Show, will return to the Village Hall and Gardens on Saturday September 7.
The names of many of the classes will be inspired by this year’s theme of ‘Hooked on Books’. There will be plenty of opportunities for growers, crafters, gardeners, cooks and photographers of all ages to showcase their talents and interests. Money raised goes towards the support and maintenance of the Hall.
Bookings for stalls and attractions are being taken. The ever-popular Marshfield Brass Band, which adds to the traditional village show atmosphere, has already been booked.
The show schedule is available in local shops, businesses and the WOT Library. It is always a lovely
way to end the summer and look forward to the coming of autumn. Further information, including the Stallholders’ Application Form may be found on the show’s Facebook Page and website (wotvs.co.uk).
Carole Thorpe (WOT Village Show Chairman)
medal winning garden designer, Jane Porter, will be talking about the Chelsea gardens she’s designed.
Admission to the Open Gardens is £6 per person, with under 16s going free. By buying a ticket visitors help to support the work of the hospice. Wellbehaved dogs on a lead are welcome and light lunches, a
range of delicious home-made cakes and cream teas will be available to buy.
Visitors also have the exclusive opportunity to explore the arts and crafts created by patients attending courses at St Peter’s Hospice day services department in a special showcase on Saturday 14 September from 10.30am- 4pm.
Day services art tutor David Hunter, hospice volunteer Fergus MacBeth, staff member Sally Evans and others will be exhibiting artwork which will be for sale, with a percentage from all sales made being donated to the hospice. Craftwork made by patients will also be available for sale and refreshments served in a garden marquee at the event.
Both events take place at St Peter’s Hospice, Charlton Road, Brentry, Bristol BS10 6NL. Entry to the art exhibition is free. To purchase a ticket for the Open Gardens, see: www.stpetershospice.org/ opengardens
Bristol’s centre of excellence in the training and education of Classical Ballet
www.thebristolschoolofdancing.co.uk info@thebristolschoolofdancing.co.uk
Enrolling now for September