cliftonvoice
February, 2024 Issue 6
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Parents, teachers, friends and former pupils are hoping to rescue Bristol Steiner School after the shock announcement that it is facing closure after 50 years. Full story: Page 17
Standing up for heritage A pensioner who lost £5,000 in an unsuccessful challenge of a developer who removed a Jacobean ceiling has no regrets. PAGE 11
Photo: Becky Westwood
3hr parking limit 'hard to enforce'
'Bristol's fog' on the Downs
A three-hour parking limit is being recommended for the Downs, but there are fears it will be hard to enforce. PAGE 2
PEOPLE living near the Downs have been complaining about a smell of cannabis, councillors were told. The issue was discussed at the Downs committee on January 15. Robert Westlake, chair of the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge (Fodag), claimed there had been a “significant increase” in one part of the Downs recently. This prompted neighbours living near the area to complain. Mr Westlake said: “Over the past few weeks Fodag has received from Downs neighbours
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anecdotal reports of a significant increase in the use of cannabis resin near the caravan encampment on Parrys Lane. Neighbours report they can clearly detect the strong and distinctive odour associated with cannabis consumption.” The Lord Mayor, Cllr Paul Goggin, who chairs the committee, said: “I smell that odour wherever I go in Bristol, unfortunately. It seems to be Bristol’s fog. I’ve even smelt it when I’ve got the windows open in the Lord Mayor’s office on College Green.”
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Staffing crisis hits libraries Concerns have been raised over frequent short-notice branch closures of libraries, including Clifton, due to a staffing crisis. PAGE 7
cliftonvoice
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n NEWS Lane rental bid to cut delays UTILITY firms could be charged a daily fee to carry out roadworks in a bid to speed up repairs and reduce delays. The scheme would charge companies repairing and upgrading underground pipes and wires, which carry gas, electricity, water, sewage and broadband. At the moment utility firms pay a “single small sum” to get a temporary traffic regulation order, which lasts for 18 months. Councillors believe this provides no incentive to get repairs done quickly. Cllr Steve Smith, Westbury on Trym and Henleaze, said: “Lane rental schemes are a proven, very effective tool for reducing congestion caused by works undertaken by utility companies. This is because it provides a clear financial incentive to expedite matters.”
3hr parking limit 'will be hard to enforce' ENFORCING parking restrictions on the Downs is expected to be “too difficult” without introducing new parking fees for drivers. Parking on the historic parkland has long been an issue with an increasing number of van dwellers staying there long term. Bristol City Council will be asked to enforce a new threehour parking limit on the roads around and within the Downs. But it’s unclear whether this will be possible without also introducing fees, due to a shortage of enforcement staff. The Downs committee met on Monday, January 15, to discuss the issue, and heard a long-awaited report from the parking task and finish group. The group recommended a three-hour parking limit, as well as closing Circular Road to most vehicles. The current limit is five hours, although it appears this is ignored by some drivers and is not enforced.
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Conservative Councillor Steve Smith, representing Westburyon-Trym and Henleaze, said: “What parking services have told me is the problem and the reason they don’t or can’t enforce now isn’t the parking duration, it’s the no return. At the moment it’s five hours, with no return within two hours. “But what happens is you see a car there at 12pm, and if it’s still there at 5.30pm you put a ticket on it. They’ll claim that they went away for two hours and then came back. Unless you can prove that’s not true, which it usually isn’t, then the ticket is returned.” Another issue is a shortage of parking enforcement officers. These officers also work in other parts of the city, particularly those with residents’ parking zones, where residents pay for a parking permit and anyone without a permit can’t park there. But the income from the permits goes towards paying the staff to
carry out the enforcement. Green Cllr Christine Townsend, representing Southville, said: “What you’re asking for here is existing enforcement officers to go and do the enforcement. I would be reluctant to stretch that resource away from residential areas where the enforcement is also needed. “Why is it that we’re not suggesting that we start charging people to park on the Downs? Without an income coming from the parking, you’re asking the council to stretch a resource away from residential parking.” The Downs committee is made up of several councillors and members of the Society of Merchant Venturers, a business group. The committee does not have the power to introduce parking fees or change restrictions, but can only suggest changes to the council. By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reoporting Service
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February, 2024
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cliftonvoice
February, 2024
3
n NEWS
King Charles honours some local heroes THREE people connected top Bristol University were among those recogniserd by King Charles in the New Year's Honours. John Iredale, professor of medical sciences, was awarded a knighthood for services to medical research, and Ronald Hutton, from the Department of History, was awarded a CBE. Dr Teame Mebrahtu, an international advocate for the peaceful integration of refugees and a respected academic – who also became one of Bristol's few black magistrates in the 1980s – received an OBE. The award is for services to education, refugees and the Bristol community. Dr Mebrahtu was a leading educationist in Asmara, Eritrea – then part of Ethiopia– - when he sought asylum in Britain. In 1976 he had returned to Bristol – where earlier he completed a Masters degree at the university – to undertake a PhD. His application for refugee status
Teame Mebrahtu
was granted, followed by UK citizenship. After completing his doctorate, Dr Mebrahtu, who lives in Bishopston, worked for 24 years at the University of Bristol Graduate School of Education. He was invited to become a Bristol magistrate in 1984. His commitment to the community included assisting his wife Teblez, who set up a feeding the homeless project in the city. He also spent many
Dianne Jeffrey
hours of his free time assisting his fellow refugees cope with settling into a new country. A former pupil at Badminton School, Bristol, was appointed a Dame for her tremendous contribution to the voluntary and public sectors. Dame Dianne Jeffrey is the founding Chair of Age International , a sister charity set up by Age UK that helps protect and promote the dignity and rights of people in later life in more than 40 developing
countries around the world. Dianne attended Badminton from 1957-1962 and feels strongly that her time at the school played a large part in her royal recognition: “On my arrival at Badminton in the late 1950s we were heavily involved in raising money for the Ockenden Venture, a refugee aid charity providing support for the thousands of people made homeless and without status in Europe after WWII. Started by three school mistresses in Surrey, this remarkable mission kindled my ambition and has driven me to work on behalf of disadvantaged people worldwide ever since.” Pamela Wingfield Scull, founder of Westbury Park Dance Centre, was awarded the British Empire Medal. Other Bristol-born people honoured were former Chancellor Sajid Javid, who was knighted, and cricketer Marcus Trescothick, who got an OBE. Sandy Mitchell: Page 21
n FROM THE MAYOR’S OFFICE
Marvin awarded OBE for services to local government MARVIN Rees has been named on His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours list. Mayor Marvin Rees OBE said: “I’m deeply honoured to have been awarded an OBE for services to local government by His Majesty King Charles III. This would not have been possible without the support of my family, my team, and many other fellow Bristolians over a number of years. “Together, we have delivered a lot. Since 2016, to give just two examples, Bristol has built over 12,500 new homes to tackle the housing crisis and secured the world-first Bristol City Leap deal, which plans £630 million of clean energy investment by 2028. “In my final four months as mayor of my home city, our focus remains on delivering for Bristol as we continue building a City of Hope, where nobody is left behind.” Mrs Peaches Golding OBE, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of the County and City of Bristol, added: “I am delighted that the National
Honour awarded to Marvin Rees OBE, and to other worthy recipients in the region, recognises the immense contributions made to strengthen the fabric of society. Congratulations to everyone!” Mayor Rees’ two terms as mayor have seen £95 million secured to unlock 10,000 new homes and 22,000 new jobs in Temple Quarter, one of Europe’s largest regeneration schemes. Some £14.5 million has also been secured for the regeneration of Filwood Broadway. The mayor also led Bristol’s successful bid to bring Channel 4 to the city, and has prioritised work to make Bristol an accredited Living Wage City, as well as to protect the Council Tax Reduction Scheme and all of the city’s libraries and children’s centres. He led Bristol through the pandemic, steered the city through the aftermath of the toppling of the Colston statue, and supported Bristolians through the cost of living crisis, with 105 Welcoming
Spaces opened across the city’s communities last winter. The mayor secured Bristol City Leap, which plans £630 million of clean energy investment by 2028, cutting 150,000 tonnes of emissions. As a founding member of both 3Ci and the Mayors Migration Council, he continues to advocate for cities to be at the heart of global policy around climate change and migration – including on a Ted Talk viewed by more than 1.6 million people.
Mayor Rees is chair of Core Cities UK, a grouping of the 11 largest cities outside of London, and represents the UK on the Commonwealth Local Government Forum. A Yale World Fellow and graduate of the Harvard Bloomberg City Leadership Initiative, the mayor received an honorary Doctor of Letters by Swansea University. He is also an honorary fellow of both RIBA and the RSA, and was listed fourth on the latest UK Powerlist, ranking the most influential Black people in Britain. In 2023, the Mayor ran the London Marathon for Southmead Hospital Charity having previously supported Empire Fighting Chance’s fundraising, including through the October Club, and abseiled down Castlemead, Bristol’s then-tallest building, for St Peter’s Hospice. He also serves as an Ambassador for Tearfund, the international development charity, and as President of the British Exploring Society.
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February, 2024
n NEWS
Call for action over missed bin collections MANY bin collections in parts of Bristol have been missed as crews get to grips with a new timetable. Councillors have received many complaints, among them repeated misses in Stoke Lane, Abbey Road and Henleaze. Henleaze and Westbury Councillor Geoff Gollop told the Voice: “The waste company reorganised some routes but underestimated the challenge. Drivers and crew getting used to new routes meant collection took longer and overflowed into the next day, leaving lack of capacity to cope with end-of-week collections.” He said bosses at Bristol Waste were aware of the issues and were working to resolve them. Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees told councillors at a members’ forum on January 9 that he would be meeting Bristol Waste, a company owned by the council, to put forward concerns from across the city. He said the company recently changed collection days for some homes. “There will be a period of adjustment when there’s a rebalancing and a rerouting happening. It’s the first time it’s been done
since 2011/12. I’m sure Bristol Waste will make the appropriate adjustments. “I spoke to the head of Bristol Waste and told him councillors were raising concerns. I asked him if he would meet councillors from across the city to hear first-hand what is happening.” He asked councillors to email issues in advance of the meeting. Conservative Councillor John Goulandris, representing Stoke Bishop, said: “Along with other parts of Bristol, the collection of
recycling has been repeatedly late in areas of my ward with Thursday collections not taking place until Saturday afternoon. “Most of my residents are patient and leave the recycling out. However, it does look messy and after a couple of days delay some residents take the recycling back and place it in their black bin.” Green Councillor Martin Fodor, representing Redland, added: “Whole streets are sometimes missed — week after week or several weeks running — for reasons that the council itself should address. The council isn’t delivering what it promises and our contractor can’t do their job. Vehicles aren’t able to access the road due to chaotic parking.” He said he and fellow ward councillor Fi Hance had been promised action after raising similar concerns two years ago but still there was not a joined-up approach involving Bristol Waste, highways officers, legal services, and parking services working together. Includes reporting from Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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February, 2024
5
n NEWS
'Thanks a bunch to our wonderful community'
REDLAND florist Barry Toogood was moved to tears by the warmth of local support after his shop was broken into. Thieves smashed his front window in Coldharbour Road on Christmas Eve. They stole the till and about £1.50 in small change, but caused hundreds of pounds of damage. Barry says the incident has paled into insignificance compared to the outpouring of kindness from local people. “I’ve been floored by the local reaction,” he said. “There was such an overwhelming sense of generosity, a tremendous level of community support.” “We were reduced to tears by the kindness of so many people.” On Christmas Day, as he waited for the police to check the window and the shop, people offered blankets, hot drinks and food. Since then they have also offered donations to fix the window. “I don’t really feel it would be appropriate to accept such offers. Luckily I have a good relationship with Southmead Glass, and they came round quickly to fix things.” Barry was determined to re-open as soon as he could – and the shop was back in
Barry Toogood says locals deserve bouquets business before New Year. Westbury Park Community Association has asked people living and working nearby to scour their doorbell camera footage and CCTV to try to trace the thieves.
Kevin Chidgey from WPCA said there had been a positive response and all information was being passed to the police. He said: “Barry and his wife are well known in the local community and many have visited the shop to express their support and sympathy following the break in and outrage at the perpetrators. “The thieves had their hoods up on CCTV pictures captured from opposite the shop but may well have taken them down when they got further away and could perhaps now be recognised. “ WPCA say they understand the thieves, who may have been carrying rucksacks, may have gone down Coldharbour Road and then along the lane between St. Albans Road and Devonshire Road or along Devonshire Road and into the lane linking Devonshire Road and St Albans Road. Kevin said: “If any of you in those streets and places have CCTV, could you please have a look and check. Thanks a lot – Barry and Jayne are really put out by this but are still open, so go and buy some flowers or cards.” Avon and Somerset police said anyone with information could contact them by calling 101 and quoting reference 5223314154.
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February, 2024
n LETTER More, quieter greener buses – to a closed zoo!
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I HAVE been campaigning for over two years for First Bus to alter the No.8 route beyond Clifton into something more useful and user friendly. Previously there was an 8/9 service through Clifton but the 9 never went anywhere in particular in its onward sojourn through Redland, was little used, became erratic and was eventually dropped by First Bus. These buses did, however, go to Clifton Down where there is a shopping centre with a large supermarket and useful shops within it and nearby. There is also an interchange with ten other services as well as the railway station. The 8 was then re-routed to take in Pembroke Road and the Zoo 73 times a day, up to every 10 minutes, from 6am until nearly midnight. There were times during the day when 30 or more people got off there. Now with the Zoo closed it still stops there 73 times a day and I doubt if 30 passengers a day use this bus stop (renamed College Road) as there are very few residences or attractions nearby. The bus runs largely empty and disgracefully competes for the meagre passenger numbers with the heavily subsidised 505 service over this part of its route from Clifton. I wrote to First’s headquarters in Glasgow, where, curiously all regional timetabling is carried out, suggesting that the 8 re-routes from Pembroke Road via Alma Road to Clifton Down. I subsequently contacted our local councillors, Dan Norris the regional Mayor responsible for transport, and Thangam Debbonaire, our MP. I received sympathy but no action. Last year I did discover there was serious consideration of dropping the 8 loop beyond Clifton which is useful for getting to a large doctor’s surgery on Pembroke Road as well as the Bristol Old Vic Theatre school, Clifton College, Clifton High School and several retirement residences. This coming April I have been told that my suggested re-routing has been declined as, being slightly longer, it would cause timetable delays. The plan for the April changes is to increase the 8 frequency and go electric - thus more buses to the Zoo but they will be quieter and greener. Don Shapland, Clifton
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cliftonvoice
February, 2024
7
n NEWS
'Frequent short-notice library closures must end' LIBRARIES in Bristol are regularly having to close temporarily because of staff shortages. All 26 local branches have shut their doors to residents at least once since the city council banned the use of casual employees in November. In just a few weeks following the recruitment freeze, Redland Library had to shut on 12 of the days it should have been open and had one partial closure while Clifton was fully closed once and partly closed on seven occasions. Councillors have called for the ban on casual staff to be lifted, but Labour said this would cost £300,000 and mean cuts elsewhere to council services A report to the full council meeting on January 9 said there had been 287 full or part-day closures in total. Liberal Democrats put forward a motion to recruit staff to vacant posts, restore the use of casual staff and allow staff to do overtime. The motion was unanimously approved, although that doesn’t bind the council to take any action. Lib Dem Councillor Tim Kent said: “Every day we see several libraries closed. We cannot just slash services without thought to its consequence. The small savings do not
match the unbelievable impact this has. Since November, nearly 300 library closures have occurred here in Bristol.” Green Party Councillkor Martin Fodor, who recently chaired a scrutiny commission debate about libraries, said short term and disruptive closures were happening daily for several branch libraries at a time "We all know people love our libraries. They are vital community resources in so many ways: for literacy, private study, research, community meetings, warm spaces, seeking advice, events and voluntary ways of involving local residents, and so much more. The frequent, multiple branch closures announced on days most weeks need to end.” Conservative Councillor Steve Smith added: “There’s always staff absences, that’s just a normal part of running a service. Normally the library service covers that absence, either with overtime or a selection of bank staff. But they’re no longer allowed to do that, as that’s been frozen. They can’t use overtime, they can’t use bank staff. “This is exactly the same kneejerk panic response that had happened this time last year that drove our planning service off the edge of a cliff, which it still hasn’t recovered from. I would have hoped that we might have
“All mums should have a mummy MOT” Up to half of all women experience weakness in their abdominal muscles and pelvic floor muscles after pregnancy which can cause instability or poor core strength leading to women developing pelvic pain or bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction. Worryingly many women just put up with it as par for the course, but the message is clear postnatal rehab works. A Mummy MOT is a specialist postnatal examination for women following both vaginal and C-section deliveries. It will assess how your posture, pelvic floor and stomach muscles are recovering after childbirth. I am a proud Mummy MOT physiotherapist, and I am on a mission to help all you mums get on track with your health and fitness goals.
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learned from that.” Libraries should have been open for a total of 2,945 hours in December but were forced to close for 599 of these hours — just over a fifth of the planned opening time. This rose from 6.3 per cent of hours closed in November, and only 3.2 per cent of hours closed in October. Council leaders said the closures were due to austerity and the government reducing its funding since 2010. Extra funding could be found this spring, when the council passes a new budget for the next financial year, beginning this April. Labour Councillor Ellie King, cabinet member for public health and communities, said: “We of course want our libraries to be fully staffed, and this is not an ideal situation. But it’s a temporary measure until the end of the financial year. Closures are often down to staff illness, and where possible staff are moved around from library to library where possible, to minimise closures. The reality is employing more library staff means cuts elsewhere.” Details of planned library closures each day are posted on X (formerly Twitter). By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service
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February, 2024
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS
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News from your Green Party Clifton councillors Paula O’Rourke and Katy Grant Hello to all the readers of the Clifton Voice! For this edition early in the year, we want to look forward to 2024, and some of the progress we hope to see made in the next month, and beyond. We are looking forward to the surfacing of the Clifton Suspension Bridge playground being finalised, the removal of the spoilheap, and the filling of the Canynge Square sinkhole – all planned for the first quarter of the year. We will also have more feedback from residents on the plans to make permanent Princess Victoria Street pedestrianisation. Around £600,000 of funding has been secured from the West of England Combined Authority to repave the road, add trees, etc. The work won’t be done until January 2025, but it will be very attractive when finished. Soon, the blueprint being developed by UWE architecture students (supported by the councillors and in consultation with Hotwell Corner campaign, HCCA, and local groups, residents and the school) as a basis for a 'Neighbourhood Plan' for the Hotwell Road and Cumberland Basin piazza will be finalised. This will suggest better cycling and walking infrastructure, as well as more greenery and traffic calming measures. We are looking forward to seeing something change on the boarded up WH Smith site in the heart of Clifton Village! At the least, this
could include a useful ‘meanwhile’ use for the place. We will continue to facilitate negotiations between local residents and the developer on the possibility of a buy-out of a proportion of the site to create a small square in Kings Road. We are following with excitement the next steps on the restoration of the Jacob’s Wells Baths, which was rescued from sale by pressure from us councillors and others. Trinity Bristol is taking steps to prepare the building for community use and eventually dance and youth provision. A phenomenal £1.5 million has already been raised, but there is a long way to go to fund the full restoration. We can’t wait to visit the finalised Brandon House community room. Who isn’t keen for the end of winter, and the coming into flower, in late Spring, of the four wildflower meadows we have helped create; one on Clifton Hill, two on the Downs, and one on the Ashton meadows. We will toast the much-anticipated digital screen up in the Trinity Bus Stop on the Hotwell Road, hopefully late January! We are expecting to keep a close eye on
9 developments at the former Western Zoo Carpark, and to make sure all the commitments made around public access and green space in the former Zoo Garden site are binding on the new owner. We will be getting our input into the parking review of the RPZ when it comes to Cabinet in early 2024. We have been asking for the many minor changes we know are needed to be reviewed for a long time. We are looking forward to anticipated changes to the bus routes for Clifton after April 2024; increased frequency for Service 8 on Saturdays and Sundays, and additional journeys in the evening to link with trains at Temple Meads. As well, there should be an additional service, numbered 5, which will serve Clifton between St Anne’s Cabot Circus, and Clifton Church, every 30 minutes. We are very much hoping WECA will agree to route the 505 through Whiteladies Road at some point soon – watch this space! We are also gearing up for the local elections, and the changes to come in May, when the mayoral model of governance will be replaced with a committee system. Lots of work is being done to review the Constitution and to establish new policy committees, which we believe will make the way the city is run more democratic. As the largest group in the Council, the Greens look forward to a system which will give more proportional cross-party representation, and in which we can use our voice more effectively for citizens. 2024 certainly looks to be both challenging and exciting for your councillors and we hope it will be for you too! Katy and Paula
News from your Green Party Clifton Down councillors Carla Denyer and Tom Hathway HELLO again from Carla and Tom, your Green councillors in Clifton Down. The new year in politics is in full swing, with the January meeting of Full Council having seen support for Bristol’s Green Councillors motion on maximising the supply of housing from existing buildings and council land, and the approval of the new constitution when the position of Mayor is finally scrapped at the May local elections. This month we wanted to give an update on street lights, something we all notice more across the city on these long dark nights. This is reflected in the increase in people getting in touch with us about issues with them on their street, and Tom took questions to the Mayor ahead of January’s Full Council about the long delays to getting faulty lights repaired. Bristol is in the middle of rolling out LEDs to our street lights, of which there are some 29,000. These are much more energy efficient
and longer lasting than the traditional sodium bulbs, with the project expected to save almost £2 million a year in energy and maintenance costs when complete in 2025. This brings carbon savings too, contributing towards our climate goals, with removed lanterns reused where possible or recycled. Locally we have many of the well-loved heritage lamp posts which contribute to the character of the area. These are due to begin being upgraded from April, and in the meantime it is becoming increasingly difficult to source spare parts, which is causing delays to repairs. Tom has asked that further information be made available through Fix My Street, so that residents are made aware that faults reported through the app are being held up by the delay and haven’t just been forgotten! There is no ongoing budget for painting heritage lamps however. We worked with residents in the ward to fundraise for repainting
the lamps in their street, which is a good example of the community coming together to prove resilience in the face of years of withering funding from central government. By the time this issue goes out, debate will be in full swing about the annual Council budget set by the Labour Mayor, which will be voted on at Full Council on 20th February. Under current rules set by government, a totally balanced budget must be set every year. Across the UK this often means cuts which will cost more in the medium term than they save in the short term to achieve this. As Greens we always try to take a holistic view to how we organise in society, but with ever growing demand for statutory services and the ongoing impact of inflation, it’s not set to be an easy discussion. Cllr. Tom Hathway and Cllr. Carla Denyer
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February, 2024
n NEWS FROM OUR MP Supporting Bristol’s music sector As Shadow Culture Secretary, it is my role to be a champion of the arts. It is a role I relish. As MP for Bristol West, I am fortunate to be able to learn from the experience of Bristol’s grassroots music sector. I met recently with Bristol’s Night Time Economy Advisor, Carly Heath, who shared an update on some of the challenges our musicians, promoters, and venues are facing. We talked about how declining sales, evolving audience habits, increased overheads, lack of affordable spaces, unreliable local transport, and a lack of support and recognition for grassroots music and club culture are all putting pressure on the sector. Under the next Labour government, as the Secretary of State of Culture Media and Sport, I will back musicians and all kinds of artists. We will ensure that the creative industries are right at the heart of our plan for economic growth, where they belong. In my Conference speech last year, I spoke about the need the right creative spaces in the right places - more studios, art centres,
music venues, nightclubs right across the country. If Labour wins the next General Election, I will lead on the work to build a National Cultural Infrastructure Map so local leaders and businesses are better able to spot cultural spaces at risk, and opportunities for investment and development, and leave artists and musicians free to focus what they do best – creating art. Voting against the government’s divisive anti-boycott Bill I and my Labour colleagues voted against the Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill at its third reading. The Bill risks significantly undermining support for groups around the world who are victims of grave and systemic human rights abuses. It’s incompatible with international law and places unprecedented restrictions on the ability of public bodies, many of them directly elected, to express a view on policy. I disagree with the limits the Bill puts on freedom of speech and think it is likely to be subject to repeated and extended legal challenge. Public bodies should be able
to take ethical decisions. These should be consistent with their investment and procurement policies and be based on principles that are applied equally to all countries. Labour’s plan for NHS Dentistry Last week I voted for Labour’s plan to rescue NHS dentistry. Many people in Bristol and around the country are finding it impossible to access an NHS dentist when they need one— with appalling consequences for our dental health. Of the 456 dental surgeries in the South-West region who had shared an update on the NHS website, 99% are not accepting new adult patients. 80% are not accepting any new patients. In Bristol West, none of the 17 dental surgeries who shared information, are accepting new adult patients. I hear from people almost every week who are struggling to see a dentist. This shouldn’t be the case. Labour believes healthcare should be available to all who need it. We will take action to provide urgent care for those who need it, and long-term reform to restore NHS dentistry for all.
Thangam Debbonaire writes for the Voice Our plan will provide 700,000 more urgent appointments, for people in need of things like fillings and root canals, and will be paid for by abolishing the nondom tax status. working people need healthcare more than the ultra-wealthy need a tax break.
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February, 2024
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n NEWS
'It cost me £5k - but I don't regret taking a stand' A PENSIONER who lost a court case against a developer over the destruction of a 400 year old plaster ceiling, says he has no regrets. Barry Cash said he was so angry at the loss of the ornate ceiling in the former Big Chill Bar, at 15 Small Street, that he tried to sue the developer for “negligently impoverishing my architectural heritage”. His case was thrown out, but he says he’s glad he highlighted the loophole in the law. The story started in August 2017 when Historic England planned to inspect the building, because they thought the 400 year old Jacobean ceiling might rate protection of listed status. By the time the inspectors visited, the ceiling had been pulled down. The developers were later granted permission on appeal to change the upper floors of the building into four student flats. Last autumn, six years after the ceiling was demolished, Barry, from Bishopston, decided to take action – and brought a case in Bristol County Court against the building’s owners and developers Midas Properties, run by Giuseppe and Elaine Baio. In court papers he claimed “The Baios have impoverished my historical heritage and that of my descendents. “Our heritage matters to me and it matters to a dozen other citizens who have given statements expressing their loss and their outrage at what has happened.” In documents submitted to the court, a solicitor acting for the developers “Midas Properties trading as G and E Baio” said the couple still owned the property. He said Mr Cash lives two miles away from the property and “has not been affected directly nor indirectly by the ceilings removal, and there was no duty of care or any other reason that might prevent D (the developer) from removing its own ceiling”. Representing the developers,
The Jacobean ceiling that was pulled down solicitor David Marsden of Freeths LLP said that “it is difficult to conceive of a claim that is more deserving to be struck out”. In November 2023, the court rejected Barry’s case, and ordered him to pay £5,000 to Mr and Mrs Baio. Despite losing, Barry told The Voice he did not regret the court action, as he hoped it would draw attention to the loophole. “I get upset about injustice. At the time in 2017 there was a lot of fuss but no one actually did anything. A lot of these listings and orders are powerless, and no deterrent at all. “The risk is if you apply for a listing then people can smash up the building before the inspector gets there – the fines they might get are just a business expense.” “I have been well stuffed, and now have £5,000 of costs, which I cannot afford on my £15,000 pension – but what else could I do?” He has started a fund raiser - and so far has had more than £1,000 donated by well wishers to help with his costs. When the ceiling was destroyed, Bristol’s Civic Society said it was “deplorable”. Historic England said it was “saddened” and confirmed they were about to inspect the ceiling with a view to giving the whole building Listed Building status. Both
the Civic Society and Historic England said because the building had not yet been listed, the company that are carrying out the work have done nothing illegal or incorrect in the eyes of the law. Marcus Binney, executive president of campaign group
Save Britain’s Heritage said: “This is yet another tragic example of the failure to provide interim protection for buildings being considered for listing, giving owners and developers the chance to destroy important features before they can be fully assessed. “The property at 15 Small Street in Bristol, is adjacent to the city’s Grade II*Guildhall. "Bristol today is largely a great Georgian and Victorian city, but it was a great medieval and 17thcentury city too and survivals of the quality of the Jacobean ceiling at 15 Small Street should certainly be protected. “ The Voice has been unable to contact Mr and Mrs Baio for comment. If you would like to help Barry pay off his legal costs – you can donate here: https://whydonate.com/en/ fundraising/jacobean-ceilinglegal-costs
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February, 2024
n NEWS
New face at CCEG CLIFTON College Education Group has appointed Melvyn Roffe its first chief executive officer. The role will support the continued growth of the CCEG, which recently announced the joining of Tockington Manor School to the group. Nick Tolchard, chair of Clifton College Council said:
Melvyn Roffe “We are delighted that Melvyn will join us in such a pivotal role for the CCEG. The further growth of CCEG, at home and internationally, based on Clifton’s core values, will enable us to participate in exciting opportunities across
the education sector and will provide us with a sustainable and effective model for the future.” Mr Roffe, who takes up the post in September, comes to Clifton from George Watson’s College in Edinburgh, where he was principal. He is one of the very few people to have served as chair of both the Boarding Schools Association (BSA) and The Heads’ Conference (HMC). He said: “There is no doubt that the independent sector faces many challenges at present, but there are also great opportunities to be grasped. My role will be to make sure that the CCEG continues to thrive in ways which enhance the experience of the pupils in all of our schools.” Dr Tim Greene, head of Clifton College, said: “As a former Chair of the HMC Melvyn brings a unique insight into the challenges faced in the sector nationally and globally. It is an exciting time for Clifton College and this new role is an exciting step for the future. .”
Charity superstore ST Peter’s Hospice is opening a new Superstore on the Clifton Triangle this month. The superstore will be on the ground floor of the West End car park in the former Bathstore unit. Two-thirds of the stock will be furniture – donated, new and upcycled. Shoppers will also find the preloved clothing, vintage treasures and unique items that the hospice's shops are known for. John Broomhead, St Peter’s Hospice retail director says: “This is our first new concept Superstore. We’ll be able to offer our house clearance, furniture collection and delivery services as well as having a donation station within the store. We believe this will provide a really exciting shopping experience with quality sustainable products at great prices that our supporters will love. The store is a welcome addition to the hospice’s portfolio of 44 shops and will enable the charity to expand itsds furniture offering beyond their stores in Brislington and Horfield.
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February, 2024
n NEWS CAMPAIGNERS say they are shocked that Bristol City Council wants to throw its weight behind a legal challenge to the designation of Stoke Lodge Playing Field as a town or village green (TVG). Last year We Love Stoke Lodge (WLSL) won a five-year battle to get the listing, after tenants Cotham School had built a 1.5km fence around the parkland. The school has launched a legal challenge to the decision. Now it has emerged that the council plans to join the school in trying to get the TVG overturned – effectively challenging its own Public Rights of Way and Greens Committee, which made the designation in June last year. As the Voice went to print a judge was due to rule on whether Bristol City Council, which is both landlord and Commons Registration Authority, could join Cotham School as a claimant in the case – and so support the legal challenge. A WLSL spokesperson said: “Bristol City Council continues to shock us with its unlawful and undemocratic antics. There has
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Shock over new twist in village green campaign never been a level playing field when it comes to Stoke Lodge, but this latest twist is particularly shocking.” The spokesman said they believe BCC wants to switch sides to help Cotham School, which could face huge legal costs if it loses the court challenge to the TVG status. They called on the school to halt its legal action and talk to local community groups about shared use of the 23-acre site, which has been enjoyed by locals as open space for 70 years. Cotham was using the field for outdoor games but moved these to Golden Hill in September following the TVG decision. The new development comes as a row has erupted over removal of large sections of the security fence, which was put up around the land at Stoke Lodge by the school in 2019.
WLSL have welcomed the removal of many fence panels over the Christmas holidays - but denied any involvement in it. The spokesperson said: “WLSL is essentially a Facebook group, with over 1500 members. I can't vouch for the actions of every member, but I can tell you that WLSL is spending all its time and effort making sure that our village green is protected and that the fence has to be taken down through the operation of the law.” Parts of the fence were brought down by a falling tree, and it’s understood Bristol City Council removed some panels and posts to make the area safe. More panels came down during early January – resulting in as much as half the fence being down. WLSL has called on the council to prosecute Cotham
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School over its refusal to remove the fence. But the council says it won’t take any action until the legal challenge to the TVG status is resolved. In an apparent leaked email, Nancy Rollason, head of legal services at Bristol City Council, said prosecuting the school would be “premature pending resolution of the matters before the court”. Cotham School has not responded to approaches from the Voice for comment. A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “The school is challenging the decision by councillors on the Public Rights of Way and Greens Committee in June 2023 to register Stoke Lodge as a village green. The Council, which is also the landowner in this case, continues to support efforts for a binding and conclusive resolution.”
14
n NEWS
n PHARMACY BLOG
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February, 2024
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DID you know that the second Friday in January is statistically shown to be “Quitters Day”? By this day for a majority of people, those good new year resolutions that got us dusting our running shoes, on a new diet plan (more greens!), wheeling out our bikes and powering up the treadmill have all fizzed and flattened out.
rather than just meeting set goals. Count steps and keep increasing them. Drink more water and aim to eat at least five portions of fruits. Don't just be focused on counting calories and the Bathroom scale dial. Behavioural Science also shows that we place too much emphasis on willpower as a key driver for positive changes regarding our physical wellbeing and diet. The wrong ideas about willpower drive us to work to unrealistic timescales/goals for adopting new behavioural patterns and habits. Take diet changes; every time we exercise self-control, we build willpower. Saying no to feasting on threats, especially when no one is watching, makes it easier for you next time. It is a big Win!
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February, 2024
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n NEWS
Dismay over bid for increased allotment charges HUNDREDS of Bristol allotment holders are backing a campaign against huge rises in fees. The city council has launched a consultation on plans to put up rents and introduce additional charges. It says it needs to increase rents, for the first time since 2018, just to maintain service levels but wants to do more to support plotholders and to open more sites to meet demand – there are now almost 8,000 people on the waiting list. A petition started by allotment holder Holly Wyatt was just six signatures short of the 3,500 needed to force a council debate on the issue as the Voice went to print. Allotment holder Holly Wyatt, who started the petition, said the proposed changes would make allotments a “luxury for middle-class households” only. She told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Access to space for growing food is
PROPOSED FEES INCLUDE: • Rents up from £30 to £64 for a strip up to 74sq m, £70 to £141 between 150sq m and 224sq m and from £85 to £158 for a allotment 225sq m to 349sq m. Even more for those with water access • £15 for a shed, pond, greenhouse or cold frame, £25 for keeping chickens, bees and rabbits, £32 for a new or replacement key and £50 for late payments. • Setting up a tenancy– £25 for individuals, £150 for a collective growing group and £400 for a community interest company. • Expanded discount scheme for people on benefits • A new £35 administration charge. something that should be accessible to everyone – it shouldn’t become a profitmaking enterprise for councils who actually do very little to maintain and manage these sites. “There is no justification for adding charges onto items that the council should already be handling as part of their management responsibility and are already paid for. “There is also a proposal to charge sites for holding events, which would have a hugely detrimental impact . There is
absolutely no cost to the council in us holding such events and therefore no justification in charging sites other than purely for greed.” She said the proposed new rule to ban glass in greenhouses would “destroy perfectly good structures” and be expensive. The petition can be found at http://tinyurl.com/4bse88r4 In its consultation Bristol City Council said: “Allotment rents in Bristol have not been reviewed since 2018, and to simply maintain services at existing
levels we need to increase rents to cover rising costs, look after an increased number of tenants and cover the demands on the service. “However, we aspire to go further than just maintaining the current service, as we want to improve the offer to our current tenants and work towards increasing the number of plots available for those on the waiting list.” The council said it could do this by employing an extra allotments officer and restoring abandoned plots. It said: “We understand that the rent increase at this time may be difficult for some on a low income, so we propose expanding the current lowincome discount we offer to include tenants in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit.” It said rents would be “aligned” with other similar sized authorities.
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Start the journey Reception - Year 6 Open Morning Thursday 1st February
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February, 2024
17
n EDUCATION
Steiner parents in rescue bid PARENTS at Bristol’s Steiner School hope to announce details of a rescue plan this month. In December the school in Redland Hill made a shock announcement that it was to close in July after 50 years in the city. It was put into administration because of an "untenable" financial situation. But the Parents, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA) say they are confident if they raise the school’s profile, families across Bristol will rally round and support the school. PTFA chair Lindsay Berresford said more than 50 parents, past pupils, teachers and supporters have come together to put together a rescue plan. She said: “We are moving forward at pace, and by mid February will have a clearer plan. “One of our founding principles is we are confident the City of Bristol can support the only alternative school in the city. “We think people do not know
about the school, so there is work to be done to put the word out there. We know paying fees is a challenge, but we also know so many parents are looking for something different to what the mainstream can offer. We are sure there is a need and desire for this in Bristol.” Em Williams, a parent at the school said: “My child joined the school two glorious years ago barely able to read. On the reading scheme used by the school they were assessed as being at Level 6. “With their teachers help they are now on Level 24 and have loved every part of this process including the way in which the class are read to while doing handwork (lately some embroidery developing fine motor and artistic skills).” Daryl, the parent of an eight-year-old girl at the school, said: “My daughter was biting her nails to bleeding with all of the pressure of exams in her state school and catching up
after Covid. She was crying before school every day. Now she wants to be in school all the time, including weekends and holidays. Sometimes she reads a whole big chapter book in a day and does maths because she wants to.” Another parent said: “The school is a haven for our child who is a PLAC (previously looked after child in the care of the state). He was in complete chaos, his spirit was being crushed. “Bristol Steiner School is truly a trauma informed school, and he has found his happy place and has made incredible progress.” Lindsay said parents hope to put their case to the administrators within weeks. She added that senior managers shared the parents’ ambition to keep the school open. “We believe it is financially viable to run a school of this size, by reducing some costs and bringing in additional income.” The 70 pupils at the school and kindergarten, which
Campaign poster by Alison Moffett,
alisonmoffett. com
encompasses ages 3-12, do not wear uniform, have no examinations or tests and enjoy a curriculum including art, music, dance, movement, woodwork, knitting and sewing, craft, forest school, gardening and Spanish. The private Steiner school follows the philosophy of founder Rudolph Steiner, which believes in “child-centred, relational approach to learning” and a commitment to promoting the development of the whole child. Lindsay said an eventual aim would be for the school to slowly increase pupil numbers to 180 children, which is the capacity of the buildings. That might include extending the school’s age range. If you want to help with the campaign you can subscribe to updates here: https:// subscribepage.io/bssptfa
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Prepare to Achieve Easter Revision Courses 2024 Monday 8th - Friday 12th April • A wide range of GCSE and A Level subjects available for Year 11 and 13 students • Focus on subject revision, exam preparation and exam technique • Maximum group size of 5-8 students, with individual assessments and coaching • End of course report for parents/guardians • Superb teaching facilities • Free ‘study-wise’ nutritional lunch included with every booking
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February, 2024
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n BOOKS
Threads from the refugee crisis by Kate Evans KATE Evans is an artist and activist based in Somerset. Threads from the Refugee Crisis is the first graphic novel to be listed for the Orwell Prize for Books. It chronicles the author’s experience, working at the Dunkirk and Calais Jungle refugee camps during 2015 and 2016. These two camps housed up to 8,000 refugees primarily from Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iraq, Somalia and Syria who were either attempting to enter the UK by stowing away on cars, ferries, lorries or trains or were waiting for their French asylum claims to be processed. Kate helps to build plastic shelters, and unloads and sorts clothing and supplies donated by the public. She also sets up an art workshop, encouraging the refugees to draw images of their homelands with felt tip pens. The author works and eats with the refugees, using her
artistic skills to record their cramped and insanitary living conditions with only 24 portable toilets for 5,000 people. She uses her pen, pencil and drawing inks to create portraits of the refugees, placing them in plastic pockets, to protect them from the inclement weather. We hear their stories, including a seven year old boy who escaped Afghanistan by walking over mountain ranges. He is held in slavery in Turkey, manages to escape, nearly drowns crossing the Mediterranean and eventually finds his way to Calais. Kate’s vivid drawings capture the brutality of the French police who frequently raid the camps, beating men, women and children and prevent volunteers from bringing in sleeping bags and dry bedding for the occupants. She also captures the humanity and generosity of the refugees who insist on sharing
what little food they have and persuade her to join them in their games of invisible cricket. This is a very moving and beautifully illustrated book, bringing home the harsh reality of the camps and making the case for the compassionate treatment of refugees and the free movement of people across borders. The author points out that migrants are primarily young, hardworking, and less likely to claim state benefits than natives. They assist economic growth and it makes no economic sense to house them in the most deprived areas of the UK and then prevent them from working. If you are not already a library member, why not start 2024 with a new library card, giving you access to over two million books including this one? Bob Deacon
Clifton Library opening hours Monday 10am-2pm Tuesday 1pm-5pm Thursday 1pm-5pm Friday 10am-2pm Saturday 1pm-5pm
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n REVIEW Orbital by Samantha Harvey TIME might be one of the trickiest aspects of the novel: choosing which moment to expand for pages while years are afforded one sentence. A novel invites the reader into a finite world – in the case of Orbital, one contained by 136 pages – and would have us believe that its import exists far beyond the barriers of its cover. Harvey’s writing pushes this incongruity to superb effect. The Western Wind, a previous novel, is a palindromic medieval mystery beginning on day four after a death, moving backwards, then forwards again to the end. Or the start. Depending on your viewpoint. Orbital takes place over one day. Except that the setting is the International Space Station and the astronauts and cosmonauts on board will loop the Earth sixteen times. They must impose the idea of a day, telling themselves on their scheduled waking that this is the morning of a new day: “And so it is. But it’s a day of five continents and of autumn and spring, glaciers and deserts, wildernesses and warzones… the whip-crack of morning arrives every ninety minutes.” For the six characters, each day of repetitive tasks – exercise, monitoring cress, cabbages and mice, servicing smoke detectors – teems with new joy. Perspective is everything. They gaze at the aurora. They photograph a gathering typhoon. They notice the connections of land and the absence of borders. For all their expertise, they must remind themselves that this planet, their gorgeous fixation, is not at the centre of the universe but sidelined and small. One character contemplates the painting Las Meninas by Velazquez. Another questions the photo taken by Michael Collins in 1969: the lunar module carrying Armstrong and Aldrin, behind them the Moon, behind that the Earth. Does the photo contain every person but Collins? Or, is Collins, the one taking the photo, the only presence? The characters are distinct and whole but from one paragraph to the next the reader is moved so subtly into their different minds that at times their individuality softens and they become one body. Politics and nationality matter, then collapse within a phrase. Orbital, like the mesmeric Earth, is a quiet, vast wonder. Elizabeth Moss, owner of Heron Books, Clifton Arcade
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n WHAT'S ON FEBRUARY 21 n BRISTOL FRIENDS OF WNO warmly invite you to a talk at The Apostle Room , Clifton Cathedral on Wednesday 21st February: 6.45 for 7.15 start An Evening with Kate Baylis Kate Baylis, Director of Artistic Administration at WNO, discusses the challenges of her role in conversation with Andrew Borkowski and chooses some of her favourite music. (postponed from November) Easy parking, bar, Friends £8, Visitors £10 Further information from Melanie David, Tel: 01934 842014 email: melaniejdavid@ btinternet.com
Regular events Various days 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
cliftonvoice 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. 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
Brunel’s SS Great Britain: tickets that last a year, memories that last a lifetime Value for money is more important than ever this year, especially for families. At Brunel’s SS Great Britain, buy tickets once and visit as many times as you like for a whole year. With two interactive museums and a Victorian steamship to explore, there’s more to experience than you think. There are hundreds of sights, sounds and smells to discover along with new activities for each school holiday, meaning no two days out are the same. This year’s theme of botany explores the vital role of steamships like the SS Great Britain in the global migration of plants in the Victorian era and the lasting impact on our world today. It kicks off in February half term with Victorian paper flower-making and bookmark-making, with many more family activities to come throughout 2024.
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 7.30-9.00pm 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 10-30 -12-30 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. 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
February, 2024 contact secretary at secretary@ henburysingers.org. 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 HEALING FOR WELLBEING Feeling stressed? Come and try our drop in sessions run by trained 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 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 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. 5.45pm Grange Court Rd, by Newman Hall. Call 0117 962 1669 or email hbcsec@ henleazebowlingclub.org.uk Send details of your events and activities in the following format:
WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words, email us at: news@Cliftonvoice.co.uk Community events are listed free of charge. For information on special rates for listings adverts, call us on
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February, 2024
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n SPORT Role models for Clifton's young players include Dan Broady, left and Will Owen, right, both pictured during the December derby game vs Dings Crusaders Photos: Ian Clark CLIFTON RUGBY IT was announced in the New Year Honours list that Clifton member Norman “Sandy” Mitchell has been awarded the British Empire Medal Sandy is the president of the Bristol and District Rugby Football Combination and chair of trustees of the Lockleaze Sports Centre, where he has played a significant role in the development and running of these great facilities. John Raine, club president, commented: “Sandy has been a club member for many years and was appointed as a trustee of the club’s debenture scheme. On its conclusion he was given the honour of becoming a Vice President as recognition of his diligence and work” The club’s Mini and Junior section was formed in 1978 by four players. It now attracts
nearly 300 boys and girls ranging from the under 5s to the Colts team. Many have gone on over the years to play in the 1st XV or even feature in Premiership teams. Mini section chairman, Paul Bryan reports on current progress: It's heartwarming to hear about the positive start to the Minis' 2023-24 season at Clifton and fantastic to see the continued progression of all the children as they learn the game. We have one of the most successful Minis rugby sections in the local area, which continues to grow with new players wanting to join and the continued development of our existing players, some of whom, have been with us from as young as six years old. I strongly believe this is down to us
maintaining a strong focus on rugby values such as teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship, which is key to fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere. None of this would be possible without the dedication of volunteers, coaches, team managers, and helpers who sacrifice their Sunday mornings and more, to ensure all of the Minis have a positive experience playing rugby at Clifton. I thank you all! The youngest in the Micros have had a fantastic term. Regularly having up to 28 children in attendance, we’ve watched them grow from being barely able to hold a ball to conducting convincing passing and catching drills, tag games and general ball handling. Roger Opie
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES
The time for pruning and pollarding IN the last few weeks I have been gradually working my way through the vineyard, pruning the vines to get them in the right shape for the 2024 growing season. I still have a lot of young vines, so have to visually assess each one and decide how much to prune it back. If it has a thin trunk I prune it back quite hard, but if it has a fat trunk it means it’s happy and healthy, so I don’t prune it back as much. The thickness of the vine trunk is an indication of the quality of the roots beneath the ground. A nice, thick trunk means that the vine has developed good roots and can sustain more growth above ground. Elsewhere in the vineyard we’ve been busy pollarding the willow at the bottom of the slope. I say we, but I really mean Steve and Clare who volunteer in the vineyard. We pollarded the
willow a couple of years ago, but it grew back so quickly that it was starting to cast a shadow over the vines again. Chopping it back will make a real difference to the amount of light that comes through but will also mean we won’t have any shady areas to hide on hot summer days!
Remember those? Like everyone, I was getting a bit sick of the constant rain that we had throughout December. I can only think of one or two occasions where the land got as wet as that in the past. I’m really appreciating and enjoying working outside in the drier, if a bit colder, conditions. On the wildlife front, the main visitors to the vineyard at the moment are the ever-present rooks, but we also saw our first ever red kite this week. In the winery all is well. We are busy disgorging some new fizz which we hope to release in a few weeks. We had hoped to get it ready for Christmas but ran out of time. hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk @DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)
Got news? Email: news@cliftonvoice.co.uk
Above: Pollarding the willow Above left: Vine prunings on the bonfire
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n NEWS BRISTOL City Council is celebrating the permanent pedestrianisation of Cotham Hill. It said the £645,000 scheme was “materially complete” before Christmas although there were still “some finishing touches to make, including installing bins, cycle stands, and a small section of cycle lane between Woodland Road and Hampton Road”. The ban on motor vehicles, which grew out of a temporary scheme in 2021, aims to make it
February, 2024
Traffic ban now permanent
safer to walk, wheel, and cycle, reducing air pollution. Cabinet councillor Don Alexander said: “By permanently closing some sections of the road to traffic, we have created a safer and more accessible environment for everyone while supporting local businesses to use outdoor space. “The transformation of Cotham Hill aligns with our
broader vision to promote active travel, manage traffic sustainably, and enhance the overall quality of life of our residents. It is one of a number of pedestrianisation schemes we are investing in, including in the Old City and on Princess Victoria Street, both of which will be made permanent.” The scheme is funded by the Department for Transport
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