February 2013 Keynshamvoice by Emma Cooper

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Keynsham & Saltford February, 2013 Issue 11

Love is all around

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See four-page wedding guide inside

Cooking with Bath Harvest Oils, P35 | Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shopping, P36

Inside

Digging in for the year ahead at new See P27 park plot

Chocolate-making past unwrapped at museum See P20

Lewis, 18, puts his life-saving skills into action See P2

Hundreds call for homes to be rejected P5 Former pupil to set up cancer charity P8 New principal on his vision for Academy P11 Police officer launches her debut novel P17

Plus... Letters... p12 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On.. p30 Puzzles... p34 Business of

the month.. p38 Property... p39 Sport... p42 Classifieds p45

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February, 2013

News Keynshamvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher

Joni Mann Editor

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

07887 561567 news@keynshamvoice.co.uk

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ Keynshamvoice

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

March deadline Our March edition will be going to print on March 4. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by February 28. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

Local information Council Connect 01225 39 40 41 Keynsham Town Council 15-17 Temple Street, Keynsham 0117 986 8683 www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk Keynsham Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 848 7919 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General inquiries: 101

Emergency: 999 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk Inquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Anti-social behaviour team asb@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 842462 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Keynsham Youth Theatre 0117 9864128

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Keynshamvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Keynshamvoice is distributed each month to Keynsham residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points (Co-op, coffee shops, etc). Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk. This month 11,000 copies will be distributed around Keynsham, Saltford, Burnett, Chewton Keynsham, Compton Dando and Queen Charlton.

Teenager’s life-saving skills called into action

A young first-aider from Keynsham had to put his new skills into action just weeks after completing his training when a woman collapsed in front of him. Eighteen-year-old Lewis Dance, right, had been celebrating the new year with friends in Keynsham. But when he stepped outside the pub for some fresh air soon after midnight, he found a woman had fallen to the floor and begun fitting. Lewis immediately ran to help, putting her into the recovery position as she lost consciousness and ensuring she didn't choke. At the same time he called paramedics and tried to keep everyone else calm. He said: “At the time the adrenalin just kicks in, it wasn't until afterwards that I started thinking about what could have

happened. It was lucky I was there as no one else knew first aid. It was scary.” Lewis passed his St John Ambulance first aid training at the end of November in his role as a volunteer at Time Out Youth Service. He is studying a Level 3 National Diploma in uniformed public services at City of Bath College and hopes to become a frontline medic with the army. In the meantime he has applied to become a voluntary community first responder with advanced first aid training He said he was surprised that no one else at the scene knew first aid, despite the fact around 100 people were present. He added: “If anyone gets the opportunity to do first aid, take it with both hands – you could end up using it the next day or

“Within the first week of advertising in Keynshamvoice I had numerous calls and bookings. Easy to book and great value for money. We will definitely be advertising this year with Keynshamvoice.” Justin Cook – JPC Carpentry

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February, 2013

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News Safety plea after chimney fires

First-aider Lewis Dance, 18, put his life-saving skills into action on New Year’s Eve when a woman collapsed and started fitting a year later. It’s handy to have that knowledge to help out in situations.” He added: “It feels nice to help people, especially in the community, and save lives.” A St John Ambulance volunteer based in Keynsham has also called for more people to learn the vital life-saving skills. Dan Shearing, 21, was the only person with first-aid training at the scene of an accident in Hanham last month where a motorcyclist suffered a badly broken leg in a collision. He said his St John Ambulance training automatically kicked in when he realised someone had been injured. “It was very obvious that the motorcyclist had a badly broken leg so I assessed him for other injuries and treated him as necessary. It was important to keep him calm and still and another person rang for an ambulance as I reassured him and made sure that his leg was kept stable and supported.”

Dan, who joined the charity as a Cadet when he was 15, added: “This incident really illustrates for me the importance of knowing what to do in a medical emergency. “There was no one else there who could have helped and you never know how severe someone’s injuries may be.” For more about first-aid training and community courses in your area or to get involved as a volunteer visit www.sja.org.uk or contact 0117 953 3880.  Volunteers from the Keynsham branch of St John Ambulance will be demonstrating basic lifesaving skills as well as offering people the chance to get handson experience at an open day at its base in Rock Road on February 9 from 10am to 4pm Organiser Dan Shearing said: “We would like people who are interested in being the difference or learning how to save a life to come along to the event and find out more.”

A series of chimney fires has sparked a warning to homeowners to make sure their chimneys are swept regularly. Between January 18 and 28, crews from Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called out to 15 incidents, including one in Keynsham and one in Saltford. A spokesman for the fire service said: “One of the main reasons a chimney catches fire is because of a build-up of debris inside. “Chimneys where fires are burning smokeless fuels, bituminous coal, oil or gas should be swept at least once a year. “Those burning wood need to be swept every three months when in use.” No one was injured as a result of any of the incidents. Tips for preventing a chimney fire include:  Don’t use flammable liquids

like petrol or paraffin to light your fire.  Don’t burn paper or rubbish.  Don’t overload with fuel.  Occasionally go into the loft when the fire is lit and check for smoke coming out of cracks, defective brickwork or mortar joints.

Tributes paid to schoolteacher Tributes have been paid to a

Wellsway School teacher who passed away on Sunday, January 20. The school closed early on Friday, February 1, to allow colleagues to attend the funeral of Sally Cartwright, who had worked at Wellsway for 24 years. A statement on the school’s website said: “At Wellsway we are mourning the loss of a friend, colleague and teacher who gave 24 years of outstanding service to our school. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.”

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February, 2013

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News

360 object to housing plan An application to build 99 new homes on green belt land in Saltford has attracted more than 360 objections. Crest Nicholson has asked for permission to develop land off Manor Road in the village. But the proposal has proved controversial, with residents raising concerns about additional traffic and increasing demand on the village’s primary school, as well as calls to preserve the green belt. Councillor Francine Haeberling (Cons, Saltford) said: “We will back residents all the way in their campaign against these plans, and have requested that the application is heard by the council’s planning committee so that local people can have their say. “The green belt around

Saltford is valued by residents as it provides a natural barrier to protect the character of our village. B&NES should be doing all it can to protect this.” Around 200 residents attended a public meeting on the proposals last month. Councillor Mathew Blankley (Cons, Saltford), said: “The huge number of people lodging official objections to these proposals shows the strength of feeling amongst Saltford residents against these plans. “This was confirmed by the packed attendance at the recent public meeting, where residents expressed very strongly their opposition to this development.” A decision by B&NES Council is expected by early March, according to the authority’s website.

Bus to provide direct airport link A new bus service linking Keynsham and Saltford residents with Bristol Airport has been welcomed. The Bath Bus Company has announced a new hourly service from Dorchester Street in Bath, with stops in Keynsham and Saltford, will be launched on March 24. Councillor Francine Haeber-

ling said the new route would help cut traffic in the area and make it easier for people travelling to the airport. She said: “It will finally make it possible for people in Bath, Saltford and Keynsham to get to Bristol Airport without having to resort to the car or getting the bus to Temple Meads first.”

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Get advice to stop infestation Is there anything worse than finding fleas on your pets? If you're an experienced pet owner, you know that where there’s a flea, there are two fleas. And where there are two fleas, there’s an infestation! Fleas are the most common external parasite of cats and dogs. Flea bites can cause itching, fur loss and dermatitis. A pet can get a tapeworm if it eats a flea that has one. In severe cases, fleas feasting on your pet’s blood can lead to anaemia. Not all cats and dogs exhibit scratching when they have fleas. Only about one third of pets are flea allergic and these are the animals that are most likely to be seen scratching. The easiest way to determine if your pet has fleas is to check for flea dirt (which looks like dark brown or black specks of dirt) using a flea comb. Fleas have a four-stage life cycle, most of which takes place in the environment. Adult fleas on your pet make up only 5 per cent of the flea population and 95 per cent of a flea infestation lurks hidden in the home. Flea eggs (as many as 40 per day) are laid in the hair and fall off the host. The eggs hatch to become larvae, which spin cocoons for pupation in bedding and carpets, even cracks in wooden floors. These pupae are resistant to all pesticides, and can lie dormant for many months before hatching. Environmental control of eggs and larvae is therefore a really important step in addition to killing the adult fleas on your pet.

Fortunately there are a number of flea treatment products for pets that are both easy to use and effective. These include topical “spot ons” which control the whole flea life cycle for dogs and cats, household environmental sprays and injections for cats which can provide six months of protection from flea infestations. These products have very much superceded older methods of flea shampoos/powders, flea collars and certain “spot ons”, as these are primarily geared to kill adult fleas only and have little or no residual effect. You should always consult your vet before using any flea control products to ensure they are right for your pet and be aware that some flea products for dogs are extremely toxic to cats. During February and March Keynsham Veterinary Centre is running a promotion to buy one cat flea injection and get the second one free! This will give you a whole year’s protection and can be combined with your cat’s annual booster. Please call 0117 986 7700 for further details.

February, 2013

News

Voice view on 20mph plans Saltford’s councillors are calling on residents to let them know their views on plans to introduce a 20mph speed limit on the village’s roads. The consultation on the proposal for Saltford is in its final stages and councillors Mathew Blankley and Francine Haeberling want to know what the community thinks. Bath and North East Somerset Council has earmarked £500,000 for the scheme to reduce speeds on residential roads across the district. Councillor Mathew Blankley said: “While I recognise that 20mph limits have reduced average speeds, I am sceptical about its effectiveness at deterring serial-speeders. I am also concerned at how much is being spent; I firmly believe that £500,000 can be put towards much more effec-

tive speed-control measures that will save lives.” Saltford currently has 20mph limits on High Street, Mead Lane, The Shallows and various cul-de-sacs in the area, and the limit comes into effect on Claverton Road during school drop-off and pick-up times. The proposal would see all residential roads covered by the limit, except Bath Road and private roads. Visit saltfordconservatives. yourcllr.com for information on how to contact Cllr Blankley or Cllr Haeberling.

Rebecca Gibb BVM&S MRCVS

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February, 2013

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News

220 hopefuls for music fest More than 200 acts have applied to play at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Keynsham Music Festival, organisers have revealed. And the line-up could have a real international flavour with acts such as Violentango from Buenos Aires, a band from a South African township and the 2011 winner of Hungarian X Factor in the running for a slot. There is also plenty of homegrown talent among the 220 acts that hope to entertain the crowds at the Memorial Park this summer, which are now being whittled down by organisers. The festival week in the runup to the main event on July 7 is also taking shape, with performances and activities on every night of the week. Keynsham Orchestra, Opera in the Park,

the late-night Cinema Under the Stars will return, and will be joined on the programme by a second film night with Transition Keynsham, an acoustic showcase at The Ship and an evening with philosopher Satish Kumar. There will be plenty of activities for youngsters in the town, with workshops at local schools and a group of former and current Wellsway students taking over the management of the Time Out stage. To keep up to date with developments for Keynsham Muic Festival 2013, visit www.keynshammusicfestival.co.uk, see the Facebook page www.facebook. com/pages/Keynsham-MusicFestival-2012/322517244472445 or follow@keynshamfest on Twitter.

Probus Club mourns colleagues A club for retired businessmen has paid tribute to two members who passed away within days of each other last month. Thomas Hall, 92, and Jeffrey Whittock, 84, were members of Keynsham and Saltford Probus Club, the first a former secretary and the latter once nominated to be president. Mr Hall was a

former head teacher at Speedwell School, while Mr Whittock had been regional organiser for the Mission for Deep Sea Fisherman. He was chief co-ordinator of Keynsham Friends in Need and a Methodist preacher. Mr Hall belonged to Keynsham Bowls Club and served with the Royal Naval Air Service in World War II.

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News MP’s surgeries North East Somerset MP Jacob Rees-Mogg will be meeting residents at surgeries in coming months. Surgeries will be held at Keynsham Baptist Church Hall at 2.30pm on Saturday, February 9; Saltford Hall, Wansdyke Room, at 3pm on Saturday, March 16; Keynsham Baptist Church Hall at 5pm on Friday, April 12; and Saltford Hall, Avon Room, at 5pm on Friday, May 31.

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February, 2013

Chris spells out aim to help beat cancer By Rosa Sherwood A former Wellsway School student is aiming to set up his own charity to support cancer sufferers.

Chris Read, 21, started The Beat It Foundation after his own battle with cancer and hopes he can raise enough money and support to become a registered charity. Chris was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2011, after eight months and visits to three different doctors. “I never expected it, and even when they told me, I still didn't believe it,” said Chris. Throughout his treatment Chris realised there was a lack of support offered to him. “It just isn't easy enough for young people to deal with. You get given a lot of information, and medical documents, it's a lot

to take in and, to be honest, you just don't want to read it.” Chris plans to make “support packs”, which would contain simple information leaflets that are easy to read and understand. Helping to appeal to the younger generation, Chris has designed T-shirts and jumpers to sell to raise funds. The garments feature Chris' “Beat It” tattoo. He said: “Charities are not always seen as the coolest of things, so I think seeing the tattoo helps to give a personal connection for young people.” Chris plans to do talks in the local area, having already gained much support when he visited Wellsway School recently. Find out more about The Beat It Foundation at www.facebook. com/TheBeatItFoundation.  Photo: Adam Streames Photography

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February, 2013

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Youth and education

Scouts appeal for volunteers

Maths club looks for new additions Whether your child loves maths or finds it “boooring”, an afterschool maths club in Keynsham is open to all. The club is held every Wednesday from 4-5pm in term-times and is run by three CRB-checked volunteers, one of whom is a retired teacher. The sessions, at Community@67, in Queens Road, are aimed at Years 5 and 6 and cater for up to 10 youngsters at a time. The club costs £1 and children

Potential volunteers are being urged to “think differently” about Scouting and sign up to become leaders. With a waiting list of more than 100 youngsters, Keynsham Scouts want people with a range of skills to step forward to support the group. From graduates who want to gain experience for their future career to retired people who want a new activity, the group says there are roles to suit many different people with a range of skills, from leadership to support in certain activities. A spokesperson said: “When

Scouts ask for volunteers what do you think of – camping, wood fires, knots and large hats? Well think again. “Keynsham Scouts are seeking volunteers not just for leadership roles (although they are welcome) but for roles in which people have skills or enthusiasm that could support the uniform sections.” No experience of Scouting is required, there is no set number of hours for volunteers to fulfil or set times. Call 07714 237525 or visit www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk for more details.

Your news

can drop in for a taster session. Places can be booked by calling Sheila Crocombe on 0117 986 3961.

We want to know about your school or youth group’s activities, events and successes. If you would like to be featured in Keynsham Voice, email news@keynshamvoice. co.uk, call Joni on 07887 561567 or Emma on 07715 770448.

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Youth and education

February, 2013

We will provide world-class education students deserve Broadlands Academy’s new principal Dean Anderson, who took up his role at the start of 2013, speaks to Keynshamvoice about his vision for the school.

our behaviour policy after halfterm. I believe that we prepare students for life beyond school, so it is important that they have a good moral understanding of their responsibilities. Broadlands Academy will be a disciplined environment where all students are given the opportunity to flourish without fear of others disrupting their learning.

What attracted you to the role of principal at Broadlands Academy in Keynsham? There were a number of reasons as to why I was attracted to the role of Principal at Broadlands, but I was completely convinced that it was the right job for me when I visited the school for the first time at the end of September for Interview. The students sold the school to me with their honesty and desire to see Broadlands return to the outstanding school that it used to be. Obviously they were affected by the threatened closure, but since that had been averted, they were excited about the prospect of becoming an Academy sponsored by the Academies Enterprise Trust. I was also very impressed with the Academies Enterprise Trust and their commitment to help improve the school and to work in collaboration with neighbouring schools and our community.

Broadlands Academy principal Dean Anderson

Has the transition gone well so far for staff and pupils? The staff have been very responsive, as have the students. They have welcomed me into the Broadlands family and the transition for me has been made very easy. Staff and students are clear as to my expectations and are working hard. They have responded well to the changes I have already implemented and I am looking forward to working with our students and their families regarding the improvements that will be made over the coming weeks to ensure we provide the best possible educational opportunities for all.

The motto comes from the Academies Enterprise Trust, who firmly believe that all children are entitled to attend a good school, wherever they live. They are the largest academy chain in the country and offer us a number of benefits from staff training to funding support. Working with them is a fantastic opportunity which we will take full advantage of for the benefit of all our students and our community. We will be able to provide all our students with the academic and social opportunities they require and can call on support and links with a number of different schools and organisations to achieve this.

The Academy’s motto is “To Make our Best Better”. Can you give some examples of how this might be put into action?

What changes might students and parents see in day-to-day school life? The uniform changes in September and all Broadlands Academy

Is the school still a specialist in science and engineering? Is there emphasis on certain aspects of the curriculum? We have retained our specialisms and will continue to build on the excellent achievements of our Science and Engineering departments. However, I am keen for the expertise we have gained to be used in other curriculum areas also, to ensure the best provision across the range of subjects. Progress in English and maths is good and improving.

students will be in a new uniform. This will include ties and blazers. I believe that all students should come to the Academy prepared to learn and dressed and equipped appropriately. They should be proud of their school and this should be reflected in the way they look. We have approached a local uniform provider who is preparing some samples and we will then begin the consultation process with students and their families. I am very conscious, however, of the additional cost this process incurs, and of the current economic climate for families, so in September, we will provide all our students with a blazer free of charge. This includes all of our new Year 7 students. The timetable has already changed, with longer learning periods to aid student progress, and there will be changes to

Is there a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities offered at Broadlands? There is a full programme of activities from the arts to sport to a range of revision and extension activities for our more able students. We actively encourage all students to attend an extra-curricular club. Recently, we have seen great success in our football teams, in particular our Year 9 students played in the semi-final of the National Schools Cup competition for the second year in a row. Briefly, why would Broadlands Academy be a good choice for families in the area? Broadlands Academy will become an outstanding school for the students of Keynsham and Bristol. We will work in partnership with our sponsors the AET, and the local community to ensure that all students have access to a world-class education. It is what they deserve and it’s my job to ensure it happens.

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February, 2013

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Youth and education

B&NES Young Chef of the Year Hatti Prescott, 14, with Wellsway head of food technology Alexis Scourfield and fellow finalist Callum Bishop

Hatti serves up dish of the day at finals A pupil from Wellsway School proved she has the recipe for success, scooping the title of B&NES Young Chef of the Year 2013. Hatti Prescott’s dish of cod wrapped in pancetta with herby potatoes and traffic light ratatouille won over the judges in the finals of the contest, held at Ston Easton Park on January 22. The fourteen-year-old was up against competition from 13 other finalists from seven secondary schools in the district. Hatti, who loves cooking as a hobby, said: “I was ecstatic when I heard my name read out as the winner. I absolutely love the iPad I won, I've used it every day.” She also won £500 worth of cooking equipment for Wellsway's food technology

Say cheese! With development of our brand new HTML5 cheese-rolling‚ game in full swing at Complete Control, we thought now would be a great time to share some early concept designs and hopefully get a little input too from the Keynshamvoice readers. In the game, our hero Chester Cheese will liberate a fellow cheese character in every level. With such a variety of amusing cheese names to plunder – Black Eyed Susan, Stinking Bishop and Red Devil, to name just a few – there is a wealth of possibilities for new characters to feature in the game. We would love some suggestions! If you send us a sketch/image of your cheese character with accompanying name,, the winning g design g will

be chosen and the winner will work up the character in the studio with our game artists – and your cheese character will feature in the final game! Have a fun and the deadline for entry is Friday, February 28. The winning design will also be featured in Keynshamvoice. Please email entries to glynn@completecontrol. co.uk  Complete Control is a children’s interactive production company creating content for some of the best-loved children’s brands. It is based at Corston, near Bristol.

department, with students being asked for their ideas on what to purchase. Head of food technology Alexis Scourfield said: “All the finalists had a great experience and I thought the quality of the dishes was absolutely fantastic.” Fellow Wellsway pupil Callum Bishop also won through to the Young Chef of the Year finals, which were judged by a panel including Ston Easton Park head chef Dan Moon, Judy Allies, Director of Public Health Award coordinator, and Sam Moody, The Bath Priory's executive chef. Both Callum and Hatti say they are looking forward to entering other cooking competitions.

School expansion plan explained Parents and members of the community were given the chance to find out more about the proposals to expand Castle Primary School last month. A B&NES Council representative visited the school on January 17 to answer any questions on the proposals, aimed at meeting rising demand for places as result

of population increases and the neighbouring K2 development. Bath and North East Somerset Council is proposing to increase capacity from 210 to 420 over a number of years, and extra land adjoining the existing school grounds has been secured from Taylor Wimpey.

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February, 2013

Letters and views Free parking for Keynsham We just want a level playing field Julie Stiddard states in her letter in January’s issue of Keynshamvoice that it has been a “struggle” to stop herself from writing to letter pages until now. Well, I’m afraid her letter was so missing the point of why free parking in Keynsham is needed that she came across as having an “I’m all right Jack” attitude. Ok, so some of the points she makes are valid such as paying for the upkeep and cars being left while their owners work elsewhere. However, free parking is not a “luxury” but an essential part of attracting people into Keynsham to shop. We have far too few businesses in our High Street as it is without having to pay for the privilege to shop here. The 40p charge is not the

Your views Send letters to Keynshamvoice, 16 Chandag Road, Keynsham, BS31 1NR. Alternatively, email news@keynsham voice.co.uk, find us on Facebook or Twitter @keynshamvoice or go to our website www.keynshamvoice.co.uk issue. The overall point being missed here, is that while Keynsham has a parking charge the rest of B&NES’ towns and villages do not. All we ask for is equality, a level playing field. Either all car parks within B&NES’ remit charge or they are all free. Why should Keynsham be the exception to the rule? John Howlett, Keynsham

A thank you from the Lions Funds raised are already helping I write on behalf of the President of the Lions Club of Keynsham, Lion Ken Hawker, to thank the

people of Keynsham and Saltford for their generosity once again over the Christmas period. The Christmas Appeal raised £3,600 and gave a lot of people and their children a great deal of pleasure and the money raised will be used wisely throughout the year and some has already been used to bring some Christmas cheer to number of disadvantaged families locally. The club is also grateful to a number of local supermarkets, Morrison’s at Fishponds and Sainsbury’s at Emersons Green, two venues that continued to support Lions after the demise of the Lions Club of Kingswood. In the town of course we were again supported strongly by the Cooperative store, which also helps us throughout the year with our charitable fundraising. Our thanks to them. For those who missed us or who heard us but did not see us, I am sorry but we are limited in what we can do. On behalf of my club I hope that we can continue to have a Father Christmas and sleigh, but without new members it becomes more difficult year on year. So I close with grateful thanks and if anyone feels that they might wish to join and help to continue our work then please contact us on 0845 8339817. Lion Alan Hale, Lions Club of Keynsham

Saltford Short Story contest To your pens if you’re inspired I hope many of your readers have felt inspired to write a short story following the article on Saltford’s Short Story Competition in your December edition. The closing date is March 25 for any subject up to 1,500 words. All the details about prizes, etc can be found in our libraries, the Saltford Festival website info@saltfordfestival.org. uk or from m_dscotty@hotmail. com. To your pens writers all and good luck! Julia Scott

New move in shale gas bid Proud of those challenging plans I read with dismay your article entitled “New move on drilling plan” on page 6 in the January edition of the Keynshamvoice. It now seems that UK Methane Limited now feel free to apply for wholesale shale gas production on the site. They say that “the level of information that is being requested is far higher than that for any previous planning application ..” I, for one, am proud of those in Keynsham who have had the temerity to challenge them.

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February, 2013

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Letters and views Their company director comments: “Central government has carried out enough work to prove that shale gas production is safe and has recently lifted the moratorium on fracking.” There are plenty of places in the world where fracking has turned out not to be safe, and of course people have the right to know exactly what will be involved, how it will affect their safety and the safety of their families, and the effect on the environment. Mary Lake

Extension of 20mph limit Residents will welcome move The need for a lower speed limit and improved road safety on Charlton Road is something raised frequently with me by local residents. I am pleased to be able to report that, following much lobbying, B&NES has agreed to add lower Charlton Road to its list of roads which will be included when 20mph limits are rolledout in Keynsham. Following discussions between myself and B&NES highways officers, the council has agreed to include the bottom part of Charlton Road in the 20mph scheme, from Charlton Park to the High Street. Charlton Road was initially left out of the scheme as it was deemed to be a main road rather than a residential road. However, given the large number

of people who live on and near Charlton Road, as well the narrowness of this stretch, I believed it to be essential for this part of Charlton Road to be included in the 20mph zone. If the 20mph limit is deemed a success once implemented, I would like B&NES to consider extending the lower limit as far as St Keyna Primary School. In the meantime, enforcement of the existing 30mph limit will be essential. Nonetheless, the inclusion of the lower end of Charlton Road in the 20mph zone is a positive step which I know will be welcomed by many local residents. Cllr Charles Gerrish, (Cons, Keynsham North)

Introducing a 20mph limit Road safety fund should be flexible At a time when we as a council have little spare money it has to be questioned whether the £500,000 earmarked for blanket 20mph limits is the most effective use of money to improve road safety. There are many ways in which £500,000 of funding earmarked for road safety could be spent, such as road safety education and training, traffic calming schemes, pedestrian crossings and other measures targeted at areas with a history of accident black spots. The problem is the lack of flexibility in how the £500,000 is to be spent – the council has said

it is purely for blanket 20mph zones. As someone whose day job is road safety and with 20 years’ roads policing experience, I do have a number of concerns about the impact a blanket approach to 20mph limits could have: 1. Pedestrians could become complacent and pay less attention to the traffic around them believing it to be travelling slower, thereby creating a false sense of security; 2. Those who already abuse the existing 30mph limit are unlikely to stick to a 20mph limit, and the council has admitted that the 20mph is supposed to be ‘self-enforcing’; 3. The police are highly unlikely to enforce the limit and the safety camera vans are also not going to be involved. 4. Those who stick to the 20mph limit stand a chance of aggression from those who do not wish to; 5. The existing successful 20mph limits around schools will have less impact as they will not stand out from the rest of

the road system, meaning fewer drivers will slow down approaching schools. In the recent consultation only around 22 per cent of people in Keynsham responded. Of that number 791 were in favour of a 20 limit while 687 voted against it. 72 had no opinion. This relatively low response rate and narrow margin shows that many people remain ambivalent. There is of course a place for 20mph limits in locations which warrant such a speed limit, in this respect I agree with Charles Gerrish wishing to have a 20mph limit on the narrow and lower section of Charlton Road, but I question the road safety benefits of a blanket approach. I fear that this is once again the Bath-based Liberal Democrats imposing their own preferences upon our town, when they could instead give flexibility to the £500,000 to allow it to be spent on other road safety schemes to address real issues. Cllr Alan Hale, Keynsham South

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February, 2013

Letters and views

Helping groups forge new links

Replace town’s clock tower?

More than 100 community groups from Keynsham have been invited to a networking event to help them create new links and work together. The event will be hosted by Keynsham Town Council and includes youth organisations, church groups, sporting organisations, history groups, creative groups and more. The representatives attending are encouraged to bring along leaflets or photos to help promote their group and its activities. Besides raising awareness of the other groups in the town, organisers say it will also be an opportunity to look for support among the other organisations for projects or to seek volunteers. The event will be held at St John’s Church Hall on Tuesday, February 26, from 7-9pm. If your group would like to get involved, contact the town council on 0117 986 8683.

Time ran out for Keynsham’s clock tower last month, when it was pulled down to make way for the redevelopment of the town centre. The 1960s structure inspired mixed feelings among residents, with some sad to see it go and others happy for it to be removed. One resident, Adrian Shipp, feels there should be a replacement free-standing clock and sent us his design featuring an ammonite. He said: “Having a freestanding clock would enable the placement of memorial/ celebratory (considering the Jubilee) plaques, community notice boards, or even a home for installations like the mosaics that used to adorn the centre.”  What do you think? Should Keynsham have a new clock tower? What could it look like? Or is it time for a fresh start? Let us know your thoughts!

Sketch: Adrian Shipp of Flagshipp Animations

Support fresh ideas for town Positive note to start new year A lovely positive note to start 2013 – a new young dame for Fry's Panto team, a brilliant Christmas tree festival at the parish church – perhaps inspired by the tree decorations at the royal wedding? And vibrant new ideas coming with the rebuilding of Keynsham. Perhaps Keynsham hasn't lost its soul after all! May all these constructive new ideas be actively supported by the community. Happy new year. Sunny Hayes

Your views Write to: Keynshamvoice, 16 Chandag Road, Keynsham, BS31 1NR. Email news@ keynsham voice.co.uk

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It’s a family affair for talented siblings by Rosa Sherwood

With a name like Foreign Affairs, two brothers from Keynsham who play as an acoustic duo could expect to go far. Now homegrown talent Adam and Lawrence Purnell have begun to make a name for themselves beyond the local venues they play in. Twenty-three year old Adam, and Lawrence, 18, have grown up with music. Adam said: “We have been surrounded by music for as long as I can remember with our parents taking us to concerts as young as eight.” Younger brother Lawrence takes the role of lead singer. He said: “I was always that annoying kid at the back of the bus that wouldn’t stop singing,” he said. Adam, who recently graduated from The Royal Welsh College of Music with a first-class

Photo: Foreign Affairs

BMus (Hons) degree in Classical Guitar, is the lead guitarist. The boys began performing song covers at local open mic nights, soon developing to write their own songs. Adam said: “We started to experiment with different instruments; piano, ukulele, mandolin and guitar to write our own songs.” Foreign Affairs have recently finished their seven-track EP,

which was recorded in South Wales. Following this release, their track Days has been played on BBC Introducing. The duo have also appeared live on radio stations Glastonbury FM and Radio Bristol. “In March we will be releasing the track Days as a single along with a music video,” said Adam. Another track from the EP, The Present, featured in a film soundtrack that came second in the European youth film festival. Over the past year Foreign Affairs have built up their profile performing in local venues. In coming months Foreign Affairs will be playing more shows in the South West, and some festivals in the summer, including their local Keynsham Music Festival. Catch them next at The Croft, in Bristol, on Monday, February 11, at 8pm. Visit www.facebook. com/foreignaffairsmusic.

More musicians for folk sessions Musicians with a passion for traditional folk music are invited to join a like-minded group at their sessions at Keynsham venues. The group meet on the first Monday of the month at Keynsham Wine Bar, and the third Monday at The Ship Inn, where they play a mix of Irish, Scottish and European jigs and reels. Now other musicians are invited to join the informal sessions, which have around five regular instrumentalists playing fiddle, violin, accordion, mandolin and more. Lyn Gosling, one of the organisers, said the sessions were set up several years ago at the Wine Bar after members of a folk band based at St John’s Church highlighted the lack of opportunities to play locally. For more information on getting involved, contact Lyn on 07749 232045 or email Simon Gosling at s.gosling@blueyonder. co.uk.

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Talk of the Town with Councillor Gill Hellier, chairman of Keynsham Town Council We hope that you have all survived the snow and ice without too much hardship and are looking forward to the first signs of spring which are starting to appear in the gardens. I did enjoy, during the very cold spell, seeing the fieldfares strip the cotoneaster and pyracantha of all their berries. The demolition of the civic buildings in the town centre is nearly complete and we look forward to watching the new site grow. We realise that it is a

very hard time for shops and businesses in the town but we must try to be positive and not be too influenced by the “doom and despair” brigade that appears at times, to take over the town. The end result will be a huge asset for the town in the years to come. The Town Council is hosting a community networking event on February 26 at St John’s hall and we look forward to meeting the vast number of volunteer groups, who make the town such a caring place to live.

“We must try to be positive and not be too influenced by the ‘doom and despair’ brigade”

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February, 2013

Planting plan at rail station Businesses are being asked to dig deep and help brighten up Keynsham train station with floral displays. Severnside Community Rail Partnership has teamed up with the Keynsham in Bloom working party to come up with ideas to make the station more welcoming. As part of the scheme, the groups plan to install barrier baskets on the platforms to create colourful displays. Local businesspeople can get involved by sponsoring a basket for £100, to cover the cost of the basket and planting in the first year. Plaques will be placed on each basket with details of the sponsor. Planting in future years will be supported by the In Bloom working party, Keynsham Town Council and through fundraising. Details of this year's Keyn-

Photo: Amethyst Horticulture

An example of a barrier basket sham In Bloom contest have also been revealed. The theme for 2013 will be “Bees, Butterflies and Blooms”, with entrants urged to make their displays as bright as possible. Entry forms will be available from March. For information on the railway station project and how to become a sponsor, or on Keynsham in Bloom 2013, contact Dawn Drury on 0117 986 8683 or email deputytownclerk@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk.

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February, 2013

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News

Author raises funds with her debut novel A serving police officer is celebrating the debut of her first novel – sales of which will also raise money in memory of a Keynsham colleague. Sandy Osborne, a detective constable with Avon and Somerset Police, launched Girl Cop at Waterstone’s in Bath last month, attracting a crowd of 180 people to hear her talk on the novel and get their copies signed. The story is a rom-com set in Bath loosely based on Sandy’s experiences as a young constable. In it, Sandy has given the heroine’s love interest the collar number of late colleague Andrew Cuff, who worked in Keynsham from 2006 before losing his battle with cancer in 2011. Sandy said: “I will be donating a percentage of the sales of Girl Cop to the Police Dependants Trust and St Peter’s Hospice. The contact with the hospice came

Photo: FJO Photography

Sandy Osborne pictured at the book launch in Bath about after I was trying to get permission for the use of police collar numbers – I contacted the mum of one of our young sergeants, who lost his battle

against cancer in 2011. She was delighted that I wanted to use his collar number for my heroine’s boyfriend.” Sandy started writing Girl Cop in 2007 and fits in her writing around being full-time mum and her career in the force, where she recently received her 21-year Long Service and Good Conduct Award. She said: “It has taken me five years to make my dream of being published a reality. I am so proud to finally see my novel on the shelves and be able to support my favourite charities from the proceeds.” Sandy has begun writing a sequel and plans to create a Girl Cop trilogy. She is hosting a luncheon at The Priory Hotel, Bath, on February 28 where she will talk about her novel. Tickets cost £35 for lunch and the talk. Call 01225 478388.

Support for dads A charity that supports children with autism and their families has set up a group just for fathers. Aptly named Just Dads, the group started by Butterflies-Haven meets on the third Monday of the month at The Ship Inn, in Temple Street, any time after 7pm. Visit www.butterflieshaven.co.uk for details.

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February, 2013

News

A golden opportunity Visit a British farm today and you’re almost as likely to find llamas as you are sheep, or grapevines next to the more runof-the-mill grocers’ stock. Defra (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) estimates that around half of the country’s farms have diversified in some form, from B&Bs and farm shops to exploring new crops and livestock alongside traditional farming. And as the nation’s tastes have changed, efforts have been made to meet demand by growing more exotic fare on our doorstep – from chillies in Upton Cheyney to homegrown olive groves, taking advantage of changes in our climate. There seems to be no tiring of the Mediterranean diet and its much-celebrated health benefits,

Debbie Keeling of Bath Harvest Oils, at Wilmington Farm with UK shoppers consuming around 28 million litres of imported olive oil per year as of 2008, spending £150 million.

Little wonder a number of British farmers are trying to grow the fruit for just a drop of this lucrative market.

But one local entrepreneur is hoping to build up her share of the artisan oil market using a rather overlooked crop that has grown in Britain for centuries – rapeseed – and has already won over a number of local chefs with her products. Debbie Keeling set up Bath Harvest Oils, based at Wilmington Farm between Bath and Keynsham, last year after leaving her office job and, while deciding what to do next, heard a discussion on the benefits of using rapeseed oil. She said: “I thought ‘you could be on to something there’. I wanted to use something that we already had at the farm and most farmers grow rapeseed as part of their crop rotation. Most of it is then processed and used for lowfat spreads and margarines.

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“We produce an artisan, high quality oil, that can be used for everyday cooking.” Debbie cold-presses the tiny black seeds from the crops in a 400 litre tank, which takes around 36 hours. The oil is then left to settle, filtered and bottled at the farm ready to go to around 35 stockists, including Keynsham’s Banables butchers, and restaurants, including the town’s Farrells restaurant. The bi-product goes to feed the farm’s Aberdeen Angus cattle.

Because it is only pressed once, the oil is also “extra virgin”. Debbie explained the oil appealed to people for different reasons, saying: “Some people are passionate about provenance and supporting British farmers and like using delis and farm shops to find local produce. Then for the foodies, it has a distinctive flavour and cooking qualities. For the health conscious it has half the saturated fat of olive oil and is high in omega 3.” Debbie produces between 5,000 and 8,000 litres a year of the oil a year, winning bronze at the Taste of the West 2012 awards for the original oil. She has now created flavoured oils, including lemon, garlic and, teaming up with the Upton Cheyney Chilli Company, chilli. These will be entered for awards this year as Debbie continues to raise awareness of her homegrown oil and its benefits, attending food shows, markets and tasting sessions at places that stock the range.  See Bath Harvest Oils’ chocolate brownie recipe on Page 35.

Bath Harvest Oils Facebook Competition Help us to decide which herb to introduce to our Infused range... To be in with a chance of winning a full set* of our cold pressed rapeseed oils just 'Like' our Facebook page facebook.com/bathharvestoils and send us a timeline message saying which is your favourite herb...Rosemary, Thyme or Sage. Competition is open from Saturday, February 9, until Thursday, February 28. The winner will be picked at random after the closing date and the prize will be sent out

by Monday, March 4. *Prize is 1 x 500ml bottle original rapeseed oil plus 1 x 250ml each of garlic, lemon, chilli and oak smoked chipotle infused oil (retail value approx £22)

Martin and Kirsty Hawker have recently taken over Jacko’s Taxis Ltd, 12a High Street, Keynsham. The firm will now be called KMJ Cabs.

In brief... Keynsham’s Creative Enterprise Hub is inviting creative people, freelancers, homeworkers and more to join them for co-working sessions. Bring your laptops and other work along to Costa, in Keynsham High Street, on the first and

third Thursday of the month from 10am to 1pm to meet other likeminded people and get inspiration at the KTown Jelly. There is free wifi and plenty of refreshments to buy. Visit www. creative-enterprise-hub.org to find out more.

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February, 2013

Museum offers a taste of our chocolate-making past by Lucy King

Highlights

From bean to bar, the chocolate-making process will be unwrapped as a new exhibition opens at M Shed this month. Chocolate! takes visitors on a trip down memory lane, exploring the history, mystery, magic and science of a product that has long-standing links with the city, and particularly Keynsham – home to the former Somerdale chocolate factory which closed in 2011. The closure of the Keynsham factory has provided a range of memorabilia for the new exhibition, which tells the story of those

who made the confectionery in the city over the past 250 years. Chocolate company Fry’s was one of the biggest employers in Bristol at the start of World War One, and by 1919 Fry’s had merged with Cadbury’s, marking the start of plans for a new chocolate factory at Somerdale, Keynsham, which opened in 1923. As well as a factory, Somerdale was intended to be a model village for workers, with sports fields and a hall for concerts and plays. Finally finished in 1935, the site employed thousands of workers at its peak, and is said to have produced enough Crunchie bars to stretch to the moon and back every week. After decades of chocolatemaking, the factory, which employed generations of local families, was sold to Kraft Foods in 2010. Despite a passionate campaign to save the factory, Kraft closed the site in 2011 and moved production to Poland. Today there is little left of the city’s once-flourishing chocolate industry, but this new, mouthwatering exhibition will offer vis-

Among the exhibition highlights, families will be able to… • View over 500 objects from the Museum's collections on display, dating back to 1729 • See the last Fry's Chocolate bar and last Elizabeth Shaw Mint Crisp chocolates • Discover how chocolate was a medical remedy in days gone by • Take a trip down memory lane with nostalgic brands • Get up close to a tin of chocolates from the Boer War and WWII chocolate rations • Cast your eyes over original

recipes for Turkish Delights and Vanilla Chocolates • Find out what it was like to work in a chocolate factory • Enjoy a multi-sensory experience with working machinery, smells and items to touch • Films in a mini cinema • Get interactive by designing and making your own chocolate box itors a taste of what life was like for the many people who played a part in its production. It even includes a full-size recreation of a chocolate production line and the heavenly aroma of chocolate in the display area. Entry to the exhibition even includes a free chocolate. “Visitors to M Shed are sure to be delighted with Chocolate!” says Julie Finch, head of Bristol Museums, Galleries and Archives. “We have put together a fantastic exhibition from our own collections so that this new exhibition reveals the serious business of chocolate, its place in our history and the people who made it happen. “Chocolate! also explores the fun, the science and the pleasures

Top, wrapping at the Fry’s factory; a promotional cartoon for Fry’s; left, a trip to buy some chocolate behind the nation’s favourite food.” Entry to the exhibition is £5 adults/£4 concession. Children £3 (under-fives free) and family tickets are £10. Special free entry days are on Wednesdays: February 20, March 20 and April 17.

 M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN. Open: 10am-5pm Tues-Fri (closed Mondays); 10am-6pm weekends and bank holiday Mondays; open Monday in February half-term (February 11). Tel: 0117 352 6600, visit www.mshed.org.

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February, 2013

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News Busy year ahead for local charity

On the Beat with PC Lisa Hawtin The blight of graffiti has become a problem in our town centre. Banksy it is not – criminal damage it certainly is. It is clear this is not street art as the culprits practice their tags, creating an eyesore in the process. I haven’t highlighted this issue until now as sometimes that is exactly what those responsible want. But if convicted of criminal damage they could face up to three months in prison and/or a fine. Rather than prosecuting young people, I want to work with them and the town council towards an agreement where graffiti tags can be displayed without causing damage.

“Banksy it is not – criminal damage it certainly is” In the meantime, if it continues around the town then we will put more resources into prosecuting those who are responsible. Any information that anyone might have should be passed on to me or my team. On another subject, we have realised that beat surgeries are not being used to their full effect. This is where myself or the PCSOs for the area will sit at a high-profile location such as

the Baptist Church on the High Street for anyone to come in and talk to us about local issues or needs. We need to know what we can do to make the surgeries more effective – are we doing enough to make people aware the surgeries are there? Do we need to use new locations at different times? We are open to suggestions. I will be available at the next beat surgery on Saturday, February 23, from 2pm at the Baptist Church on the High Street, where I will be happy to hear your thoughts and also your views on the regular PACT meetings. I hope to see you there.

Keynsham and District Mencap Society is looking ahead to a busy year of fundraising, including many events the community can enjoy. The organisation, which has around 135 members, is hosting a ball at the Bath Hilton on April 20 as well as a family fun day featuring inflatables from Bristol Fun for Hire in the same month. Funds will also be raised with the group’s annual sponsored bike ride, which is held in the summer, and a quiz night which takes places every autumn. Many members of the public will also be bringing in funds with their own events, running marathons and more to support the group, which provides the opportunity for people with learning disabilities to socialise and take part in activities and outings. For more information, call 0117 986 5659, visit www. keynshammencap.co.uk or email laura@keynshammencap.org.uk.

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February, 2013

News Jacob Rees-Mogg MPP

Recently I have voted for a cap on benefits of 1 per cent, received confirmation from HM Revenue and Customs that I will no longer be receiving child benefit and opposed the idea that Members of Parliament should have a big pay rise. It has been a reminder that we are still facing an age of austerity and cannot afford any excess. Capping benefits increases at 1 per cent is not about dividing strivers from shirkers. Most people, at least in North East Somerset, are trying to do their best for themselves and their families even when dependent upon the state. However, it is about fairness. Benefits have to be paid out of the taxes received from those in work. All other sources of revenue eventually originate with working taxpayers. As regards child benefit

for higher earners the same basic issue arises. There’s no point in taxing people at 40 per cent to give them back their own money. It would be better to move to a lower tax economy. This would cut the cost of bureaucracy and reduce the feeling of dependency. Increasing MPs’ salaries is never likely to be a popular cause. Nonetheless, even to suggest it when government spending is still so much higher than income is absurd. As Parliament voted for the extravagance and financial incontinence of the Labour years so MPs must be among those tightening their belts. These are three parts, one relatively minor, of a reconstruction of the public finances. They represent a move back to self-reliance and prudent accounting. www.jacobreesmogg.com

Revamp at historic pub A pub housed in an historic building has unveiled its £150,000 renovation to visitors. The Brassmill, in Avon Mill Lane, has been refurbished inside and out, with new signage, seating, colour scheme and more. The building has also been given extra insulation to keep the cold at bay. The pub has also recruited five extra members of staff to meet the demands of an expected increase in business following the revamp. Three jobs have been created at front-of-house, with two extra roles in the kitchen. Landlord Paul Coates said: “We'll have a clean, contemporary look, but it will be a loving and tasteful restoration in keeping with the character of a magnificent old beamed building. “The olde worlde charm will

still prevail, but we’ll also provide the modern comforts and amenities that guests come to expect. “It’s a best-of-both-worlds approach and my message to the good people of Keynsham and nearby is come and celebrate a fantastic new beginning with us.” The historic building played a key part in the development of the British brass manufacturing industry. Abraham Darby set up the first brass mills in Keynsham around 1706.

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February, 2013

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Weddings

Love is in the air! by Rosa Sherwood It’s not long until Valentine’s Day is upon us and love is in the air. Often branded a marketing ploy, Valentine’s Day faces criticism from some, but for some businesses in Keynsham, the occasion is reallyy embraced. Much

TLC goes into the day and along with Christmas,Valentine’s Day can be their busiest time. For Keynsham florists Wild About Flowers, months of preparation are required for the big day. “Working with fresh flowers in large volumes can give an added pressure, but

we love preparing for our busy periods!” said owner Angela. Charlotte Amos, events manager at The Old Manor House Hotel, appreciates people still celebrate the romantic day at the venue. “A nice meal on Valentine’s Day is what is traditionally expected from loved ones, so it is nice to see it continued today. We increase our staff to ensure that the customers feel well treated, which completes the whole Valentine’s Day experience.” Despite Valentine’s Day being a busy time, it gives retailers the chance to enjoy what they

do best. best Wendy Day of Church’s and Polka Dot explains: “I enjoy serving and interacting with the customers, helping the chaps out and providing them with their gifts and cards.” Whether you are going all out or making an understated gesture, Keynsham provides a variety of specialist shops. From the cards to the flowers, from jewellery to nail treatments, and even the butchers for that breakfast-in-bed treat, you have no excuse not to surprise your Valentine this year.

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February, 2013

Advertising feature

Enjoy planning your celebrations Choosing the right venue can be daunting, with so much to think about and prepare for, organising your big day can sometimes sweep you off your feet. Whether you want traditional – or decidedly not – you need to choose the right venue for you. Here at the Aztec Hotel and Spa you can be sure that our meticulous attention to detail will ensure the smoothest of celebrations – from the moment you decide to tie the knot until

after the very last dance. The main thing to remember during the planning stages of your wedding is to enjoy it. If you would like to view the Aztec Hotel and Spa you are welcome to call in to the hotel at any time – but we do recommend you give us a call so we can make sure there'll be one of our wedding coordinators on hand to show you around. Call 01454 201090 or email aztec.events@shirehotels.com.

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Advertising feature

At First Avenue Photography we know how important your wedding day is to you. We capture those special moments to continue the memories for a long time to come. With a friendly and personalised service from the moment we meet you, we can assure you that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in safe hands. The most important thing to us is about creating beautiful im-

ages that will evoke the emotion and special memories of your day, whenever they are seen. We are able to print photographs and design albums onsite and also offer a bespoke framing service. We are based in beautiful offices in the heart of Bristolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s city centre. We cover Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire, Somerset and beyond.

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February, 2013

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News

Digging in for year ahead at the veg plot in the park Volunteers tending a community vegetable patch in Keynsham’s Memorial Park held their first “dig in” day of the year. The group, set up by Transition Keynsham, pulled on their wellies and gardening gloves and met on February 2 to work on the plot of land. They plan to grow seasonal vegetables, herbs and soft fruits and are keen to hear from any residents who want to get involved. A spokesperson said: “Our plan is to create a friendly and welcoming garden for anyone who would like to learn about how to grow food and meet likeminded people in the area.” She added: “We work together as a group sharing skills and knowledge and would like to welcome anyone who would like to get involved. We will choose fruit and veg which are easy to

grow, look lovely and most of all taste great.” The vegetable patch was originally located next to the town’s clock tower, but had to be moved to the park ahead of work starting on the regeneration scheme. Now the Keynsham Community Plot in the Park, the team will meet on the first Saturday of every month to carry out work, as

Hard at work at the Community Plot in the Park in the MemorialPark, left and far left; below, the group’s previous plot next to the clock tower well as setting up other sessions for different tasks according to the season. Anyone who wants to get involved can either pop along one dig in day, find the group on Facebook at www.facebook. com/KeynshamPlotInThePark or email keynshamt@yahoo.co.uk.

In the Garden with our Homegrown Gardener I have been looking forward to the late winter/early spring flowers that we should see. In the first week of January the hellebores had grown about 12 inches and had plenty of flowers showing. We had a group of snowdrops, Galanthus Woronowski, a large type, flowering in one corner of a bed, G. Elwesii just showing next to them, and G. nivalis all over the garden where they have colonised, showing about 2 inches of growth. Nivalis the common snowdrop always flowers the first week in February. The Rocco Garden we are not but we do have a good show in spring. Have you noticed Viburnum Bodnantense anywhere? I have seen several fine specimens. A good upright bushy shrub, it carries its pale pink small clusters of flowers before the leaves appear. Unfortunately not in our garden. And surprisingly

orthodox pitch. Jasmine or Jassamine? I never know which.

six or seven good polyanthus in a border under some big shrubs. And one contender, the winter flowering Jasmine, bright lemon flowers climbing up the trellis. All in January. Jasmine or Jassamine I never know which. Jasmine sounds terribly, terribly rich. And Jessamine, somehow, sounds terribly poor; I picture her over a cottager’s door, Her head in the thatch and her feet in a ditch While Jasmine prefers a more

December is a month when not much happens in the garden, and what would normally get done, didn’t. So we carried it over to January and some better weather. Having had some decent weather the large fruit trees are tidy, the hedges inspected ready for March, the lawns checked after being waterlogged, and the hard areas and path slabs reset. Is it my imagination or did everything grow more because of the abundance of water in the autumn? January brought a surprise. Did you think the snow was lovely/horrible? (Delete as necessary.) Nothing to do while the garden is covered in snow? Think again. Four inches of snow on the branches of the conifers and disaster struck. A

main branch of our big conifer broke near the trunk, bringing down with it a big branch of laurel, all of it resting on the very light roofing of the shed and covering the door. With help I managed to cut back the branches to the trunks and clear the door. The upside is I shall have logs to burn. I was prompted to check all the remaining shrubs and remove most of the snow. A large tamerisk looked very elegant draped in its snow mantle, but it was drooping rather seriously. The garden did look neat and tidy under the snow. Quite a lot to do in February. Some nicely scented plants by the back door make an incentive to go outside. Sarcococcas are a fine scented plant, as is Daphne Bholua. Both of these flower in February and March. Have a look at the grass and do not forget the mower.

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February, 2013

News

A new home for a new year? The new year has barely begun but some pets given as gifts at Christmas are already looking for a new home, as one animal charity founder knows only too well. Christine Bayka, who runs The Moggery cat rehoming centre in Bristol, says that every year the phone starts ringing on Boxing Day as people decide they can’t care for their new cat. She said: “The most common situation is that the grandparents arrive for Christmas with a surprise kitten – and the cats that end up with us are the lucky ones. Some are left in boxes or by the side of the road. We always appeal to people not to buy animals as presents – they are an 18-year commitment.” It is 16 years since Christine founded The Moggery, using her own money and attracting what financial support she could

The cats get plenty of attention from volunteers like Raania from fellow animal lovers. At the time, Christine was working as a teacher, tending to several orphaned kittens in the school boiler room during her breaks. But the “cat work”, as she refers to it, soon became a full-time occupation. The Moggery costs around £3,000 a month to run, with vets’ bills making up a large proportion as each cat that comes

through the door is neutered, microchipped and given the treatment it needs before going to a new home. Regular fundraising events such as an annual auction, Christmas fair, sponsored walk and collections at local supermarkets help to meet some of the costs, as do donations handed over by people adopting a cat. Some cats are sponsored by Bristol residents while one generous benefactor, Gerry Dayer, left money to the charity which enabled work to create more room to house the animals – now known as the Dayer Suite. The Moggery is also supported by some rather high-profile patrons, with round-the-world yachtsman Tony Bullimore, broadcaster Piers Morgan and weatherman Ian Ferguson lending their names to the cause. Christine said: “We are very lucky to have our patrons. I contacted Piers after he gave us a book to auction and he wrote back saying ‘count me in’. Tony Bullimore has also opened auctions for us. Our most hands-on patron is Ian Ferguson who comes to open our fundraising events in between telling us it’s going to rain. He has also adopted two black cats, which are the hardest to rehome.” With around 10 requests a

day to take in cats, the work is non-stop and a small number of dedicated volunteers help to feed the cats and clean up – but more are always needed. And even after so many years running the charity Christine says the cruelty and callousness of some people still “takes your breath away”. But there is satisfaction in finding new homes for cats and plenty of moments to raise a smile. Christine said: “I thought the name The Moggery was selfexplanatory but over the years we have been asked to take in a golden eagle, a pig, and two goats. Once we were even asked to take a horse and I had to explain it probably wouldn’t fit through the front door.” The charity has launched its Moggery 500 appeal, which aims to find 500 people who will sign up to donate £2 or more each month to the charity, which will cover vital expenses such as dry food and litter. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with the charity, and, of course, the volunteers are always happy to hear from anyone who is prepared to make the commitment and offer a home to a new feline friend. Contact The Moggery on 0117 924 3128 or visit www.the moggeryrehomingcentre.org.

Clockwise from right: Isla is a sweet, friendly and confident cat who loves people, curling up on your lap and she’s very playful; Milo is an adult male who is quietly friendly, gentle, handsome, dignified and great with other cats; Barcode loves people, laps, playtime, cuddles and other cats. They are among the many black cats waiting for a “forever home” at The Moggery. Call the centre on 0117 924 3128.

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February, 2013

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Down on the farm with the Upton Cheyney Chilli Company After an exceptionally cold and snowy January we have finally sown our first wave of seeds into the heated propagators. We held off during January because although the propagators are heated, the cold was so biting that we just felt happier leaving it until the snow and ice thawed. So, our first seeds were sown by Louise and her sister Sarah on January 26, where in a change from previous years we used the open-tray germination technique. The open-tray system is very simple and relies on filling a tray with multi-purpose compost, dibbing out shallow holes for each seed, one inch apart, dropping in the seed and sieving a fine layer of compost on top. We finish by watering using slightly heated water before

â&#x20AC;&#x153;After an exceptionally cold and snowy January we have finally sown our first wave of seedsâ&#x20AC;?

sprinkling a light dusting of vermiculite to help retain moisture and inhibit mould growth. At time of writing we are yet to see any of the 800 seeds sprout, but within a few days we expect to see the early signs of life.

We are hoping for a considerably improved germination rate now that we are using the open-tray technique. In previous years we used Jiffy Pellets, although we found them hard to control as some pellets took up too much water from our capillary mats while others just dried out. A good germination rate would be anything above 80 per cent. Once the seedlings have acquired their first true set of leaves, we will gently prick them out of the open trays before transplanting them into growing cells. They will then be left on our heated mats covered by fleece for additional insulation until planting out takes

place in April. We will repeat this process at least five times, sowing a total of 4,000-plus seeds. Growing chillies is massively rewarding, and as such we offer a Chilli Growing Kit that can be purchased via our website (www.uptonchilli.co.uk) or at Manor Farm shop by prior arrangement. Sowing chillies is recommended between January and the end of March so you have plenty of time to start growing!

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February, 2013

What’s On February February 11 Keynsham East PACT group at Wellsway School (sixth form block), Chandag Road, 7pm.

February 18 Keynsham Business Social Evening at The Ship, Temple Street, Keynsham 7.30pm onwards. Contact Richard on 0117 9869841 for more details.

February 18 Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society. Illustrated talk by Bill Douglas on “The History of the Douglas (Motorcycle) Family”. The Key Centre, Victoria Methodist Church, Charlton Road, Keynsham 7.30pm . Visitors welcome, £2.50.

February 22 An entertaining evening of trad jazz/mainstream with Dave Martin’s Jabbo Five. Timsbury Conygre Hall, 8pm-11pm. Dance in cafe-style setting. Tickets £8 on

the door. Donation to Bath Stroke Group. Bar, hot and cold food. Details Kate (01761) 471245 or www.mendipmusic.com.

February 26 Saltford Floral Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month in Saltford Hall, Norman Road, Saltford, having alternate practice classes and demonstrations with coffee or tea afterwards. We are a friendly group who enjoy making something which gives us great satisfaction and wow factor from friends and family. Call Shirley Hobbs on 0117 986 2924 for more information.

March 1 Women’s World Day of Prayer. “I Was A Stranger and You Welcomed Me”, Keynsham Baptist Church, 1.45-3.30pm, refreshments after. Speaker Mrs Linda Sullivan. Service prepared by the Women of France. On this day women all over the world will be joining in this same service. All are welcome, women, men and young people.

Have you got an event you would like to publicise? Or do you run a club, society or community group in the Keynsham area? Send details to emma@ keynshamvoice.co.uk or call us on 07715 770448 and we will make sure thousands of people in and around Keynsham know about it. March 4 Quiz night at The Ship Inn, Temple Street, Keynsham

What’s on in Keynsham on a regular basis Passionate about local libraries, communities and history, why not join the Friends of Saltford Library? The group organises author visits, coffee mornings, poetry evenings, writing workshops and visits of nearby places of historical interest. Call 01225 394041 or email june_wentland@bathnes.gov.uk.

Monday The Women’s Section of the Royal British Legion Keynsham would be delighted to welcome new members. They meet

upstairs at the RBL Club on the first Monday of each month, 7.30pm. Occasional speakers, social events and outings. Why not come along and meet new friends? Key Voices, Keynsham’s friendly community singing group is looking for new members. Monday between 7.15pm and 9.30pm during term-times at Castle School in Newlands Road. Cost £4 per sessions, £3 concessions. Call Roy on 0117 949 8587 Keynsham Writing Group meets in the library on the second and fourth Monday of the month, from 2.30-4pm. We are a small, friendly group and welcome new members of all abilities. For further information telephone Pat 0117 986 4722. Just Dads, a group for fathers of children on the autistic spectrum

Landscapes and street life catch artist’s eye Photographer Krzysztof Rzeszut will be displaying work at Pomegranate over the next few weeks. He was born in Poland and in 2004 moved to Bristol. He said: “My passion for photography began over four years ago. I believe that photography is a way of expressing myself.

Besides my work and my family, I spend almost all of my free time on photography. I've been fascinated by landscapes and people long before I bought a camera. Lately my interest widened to street photography.” See more of Krzysztof’s work at http://rzeszut.blogspot. co.uk/.

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February, 2013

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What’s On set up by charity Butterflies-Haven. Meets on the third Monday of the month at The Ship, Temple Street, from 7pm. Visit www. butterflies-haven.co.uk for more information.

sions to share and discuss own photographs with opportunities to view the best amateur work from the South West. www.keynshamphotographicsociety.co.uk. Come along to share.

Tuesday

ChoirJam, Keynsham’s fun pop choir, meets on Wednesdays, 11.30am-1pm, during term-time at Fear Hall, Keynsham. We sing everything from ELO to Olly Murs and perform with a live band! Adults aged 18-80+ are welcome to join; there’s no audition and no experience necessary – just enthusiasm and a love of singing! To book a free taster session, call Emma Hutchinson on 07793 983040 or visit www.choirjam. co.uk.

Wellsway Ladies’ Badminton Club, 7.30-9.30pm at Keynsham Leisure Centre. For more details contact Jenny on 0117 9868331. KOPS = Keynsham Older People’s Social group. This friendly group of local, older people meet on the first Tuesday of the month at Community@67 (the old post office), Queens Road, Keynsham at 2pm. The group is free to join but members usually bring along a small item for the raffle table. New members welcome, call Paula on 01225 484510 or Phyllis on 0117 986 8623. Residents’ Fellowship Association (based at Hawthorn Meeting Room in Carpenters Lane, 2-4pm. We do different activities, eg. luncheon, quiz, games including darts and a committee meeting. On a Thursday afternoon, we do crafts and we have a community garden. Contact Jim Lingard on 0117 986 1551. St Keyna Townswomen’s Guild. A friendly, outgoing group of various ages who meet on the second Tuesday of each month at the Fear Hall, High Street, Keynsham, 9.45-11.45am. With interesting speakers and coffee/ tea and biscuits. We have many sub-groups including theatre and local interest trips, an art group, book club, Scrabble, cards, walkers, singers, bowls and more.

Wednesday Keynsham Photographic Society, Fear Hall 7.30pm to enjoy all aspects of photography. Visiting speakers; competitions; ses-

Friday If you’re interested in crafts and meeting like-minded adults, head to the Labbott Community Room in Keynsham between 11am and 1pm every Friday. Join a very friendly mixed group who meet up every Friday to play badminton during adult recreation, 10am to noon at Keynsham Leisure Centre. Everyone welcome regardless of ability. Just turn up or ring Clive on 0117 986 6793.

Baby, Toddler & under 5s groups Keynsham Children’s Centre, Baby Group. Monday 11am12.30pm Keynsham Elim Church Treasure Island Pre-school for children aged 2-5. Mondays to Thursdays 9am-3pm, Fridays 9am-1pm Keynsham Elim Church Toddler Group. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 9.30am. Keynsham Health Centre, Baby & Co Café (babies up to six months old). Monday, 1.30pm. Free community play sessions in Downfield Park, Cleeve Grove, Keynsham. Mondays 3.30pm to 6pm. Parents and carers are encouraged to stay with their children for fun activities such as den building, hammock swinging, dressing up, messy play, crafts, cooking and sport. Wansdyke Play

Association, email admin@ wpg-play.com. Queens Road Centre Toddler Group. Tuesday afternoons from 1- 2.30pm. Keynsham Parish Hall Toddler Group. Tuesday and Thursday (term-time). 9.45-11.30am. Methodist Key Centre at Victoria Baby Comes Too! Wednesday 1-3pm and Friday 9.45-11.30am. Castle Primary School Toddler Group for babies and preschool children, 9-10am every Wednesday morning during term-time. Everyone welcome for stay and play session in the main school building. Keynsham Children’s Centre, Westview Road. Stay & Play for 0-5 year olds. Thursday 9.45-11.45am.

Avon Wildlife Trust, Keynsham Local Group. Winter talks, second Friday of each month between until April, 7.30pm at the Baptist Church Hall, High Street, Keynsham, BS31 1DS. Adults £2.50, children £1. Refreshments, bring and buy book stall. Learn to play short mat bowls with a really friendly mixed group at Fear Hall, High Street, Keynsham on Fridays 7.30-9.30pm and/or Mondays 1.30-4pm until mid-May. Everyone welcome, newcomers free. Ring Clive on 0117 986 6793 or just turn up.

Join golf club coffee morning for good cause On February 28 the annual coffee morning will be held at Saltford Golf Club, Golf Club Lane Saltford. The charity this year is Keynsham and District Mencap Society. The admission is still £1, which includes coffee/tea and biscuits on arrival.

Doors open at 10am and you can pay on the door. There will be the usual stalls including cakes, plants, raffle table, white elephant and many more. Polly Grigg, the Lady Captain, and all of the lady members look forward to seeing you then.

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February, 2013

Thought for the month

News

with the Reverend Simon Howell, Team Vicar, Keynsham Parish

Join open day celebrations

Did the Les Mis film live up to your expectations? Was it as good as the 2011 Wellsway School production? Did you get through it without crying? When I looked around the Longwell Green Vue cinema after the showing my family saw, it was difficult to see anyone not rubbing their eyes with tissues – and quite a few were complete emotional wrecks! The close of the production is magnificent isn’t it? In the film, as Jean Valjean passes from this world to the next, the camera pans up and we get a glimpse of another world beyond this one. We see again the barricade that was the scene of so much loss of life, but this time it is transfigured into a towering structure that can hold

thousands of passionate men and women singing a colossal, rapturous version of “Do you hear the people sing?” It is totally believable that these impassioned lives could not be stopped by death – death looked puny in the face of such a force of love. When Christians share bread and wine at Holy Communion, we speak of Jesus Christ as he who, “with a love stronger than death, opened wide his arms upon the cross”. We believe the source of love’s victory over everything that destroys life – including death – is found in a man “giving up his life for his friends” on a cross outside Jerusalem. To drink from this source, is to find the strength to live truly passionate lives – lives of which we can be proud.

A project set up by residents to provide a space and activities for the Keynsham community will celebrate its official opening on Tuesday, February 26. Community@67, based at 67 Queens Road, will be welcoming the chairman of Bath and North East Somerset Council, the chairman of Keynsham Town Council and a representative form Curo to the ceremony from 2.30pm, which is open to all. There will be refreshments and the opportunity to see what is on offer at the centre, talk to volunteers and suggest future projects or services for Community@67. Activities and services already offered include an internet cafe, book club, back-to-work advice and help, mentoring service, maths club, advice sessions from Sirona, film nights with Transi-

tion Keynsham and more, many of which are free. Volunteers are also organising a project to create a calendar for 2014 with the theme of Keynsham, and local residents, artists and photographers are urged to submit images to keynsham calendar@gmail.com by February 28. All those selected will receive acknowledgement and will retain their own copyright. Community@67 is also looking for sponsorship to print the calendar, which will be sold at local outlets. For more about Community@67 call 0117 986 6436, email community67@gmail.com or visit the website https://sites. google.com/site/community67/.

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February, 2013

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News

Craft market set to expand Keynsham Scouts are planning to repeat their new craft market, following a successful debut in December – and this time they will be expanding the event. It will return on Saturday, February 9, and this time will have a second room featuring second-hand bargains, alongside the arts and crafts offered at the first event. Organisers are also hoping to offer refreshments to shoppers. Anyone who wants a stall at the monthly market or who wants more information can email agsldevelopment@1stkeyn

shamscouts.org.uk or call 07714 237525. Tables are supplied and priced from £15. The market at Scout HQ in Ashton Way has been set up to complement the town’s monthly farmers’ market in Ashton Way car park, selling non-food items and offering a platform for local arts. A spokesperson said: “This is a great addition to our community, giving buyers quality arts and crafts and lots of bargains while also raising money for a local charity, all support will be gratefully received.”

Chamber of Commerce with chairman Lynn Young Keynsham Chamber of Commerce had a very good meeting on January 7 at the Old Manor. It was great to see so many enthusiastic business people in one room. Membership is growing thanks to Mark, Paul and Neil and work is in progress for a welcome pack to new prospective members. Peter Morgan is doing great work sorting out a possible large screen to go on the newbuild to promote Keynsham. Temple Street will be applying for a rate reduction because of the disruption. John Paget is organising the appropriate paperwork.

Our Keynsham Chamber of Commerce website is being improved by David Hewitt and there was a lot of discussion about what we wanted on the site. the meeting ended at 7.30pm, a bit later than usual. Thanks to a very enthusiastic crowd and thanks to council members for their invaluable input. Please, if your business is in Keynsham, come along and have your say. Membership is £30 a year and the Old Manor is a great place to network after the meetings, which are held at 6pm on the first Monday of the month.

Electrical items to be collected Residents will soon be able to recycle broken or unwanted small electrical items from home. Starting from February 18, items such as kettles or hairdry-

ers will be included in B&NES Council’s weekly kerbside recycling collection. Visit www. bathnes.gov.uk/electrical collection for more information.

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News

Keynsham Crafts

Funds raised to help homeless

Profile: Linda O’Gorman (BA Hons), artist

Estate agents in the area have raised almost £16,000 to help combat homelessness. Staff from Andrews, whose headquarters is in Keynsham, held a series of events in December to raise the cash, including coffee mornings, curry nights, a 24-hour spin challenge, and a sponsored static bike ride. The final sum of £15,734 has been donated to the Estate Agency Foundation, which was set up in 2008 and supports charities such as Shelter, St Mungo’s and Broadway. Nick Wright, financial director at Andrews & Partners, as well as a trustee and treasurer of the Foundation, said: “It was wonderful to see our staff making such an effort to raise money, and we also need to thank customers and locals who got involved.”

I trained as a illustrator at Gwent College of Art, and went on to study for secondary teaching but gave this up to do exhibition work and running adult art classes. I worked for many years as a tutor for a distance learning college, and had the opportunity here to help write and illustrate the portrait and landscape courses. I have worked on various commissions, including portraits. My work is mixed media and drawing based, working on diverse subject matter mainly taken from my travels, and the environment. Exhibition venues include Bath, London, Salisbury, Bristol, Cheltenham. At present I am a member of the Old Bakery Artists based in Midsomer Norton, and have also shown work on the recent

February, 2013

Keynsham/Saltford Arts Trail. Visit my website at www.lindaogorman.co.uk. Contact: lindhelen@waitrose. com

Puzzles Sudoku

Solutions on Page 45 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

February, 2013

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Keynsham Kitchen

with Bath Harvest Oils, Wilmington Farm, Newton St Loe, BA2 9JB. Tel: 07759 482468

Recipe: Chocolate Brownies Ingredients 3 medium eggs 75g self-raising flour 75g ground almonds 200g soft brown sugar 50g good quality cocoa powder 100ml Bath Harvest Rapeseed Oil Optional extras (use 1 or 2 additions per recipe) 50g dried cranberries 50g chopped walnuts 25g mini marshmallows 50g good quality plain chocolate (chopped) Method 1. Pre-heat the oven to 180째c (or Fan 170째c), Gas Mark 4. Lightly grease and base line a 22cm square tin. 2. Whisk together the sugar and eggs until pale and creamy. Sieve in the flour and cocoa powder, add ground almonds and gently fold in. Once combined gently, whisk in the Bath Harvest Rapeseed Oil. Stir in any additions if using.

3. Pour into prepared tin and bake in centre of oven for 20-25 minutes until the edges just come away and the cake springs back slowly when touched.

4. Cool cake slightly before turning out onto wire rack. Cut into squares. Keep them in an airtight container for up to three days.

Gluten-free version: Follow the same recipe but substitute the self-raising flour with your own brand of gluten-free flour.

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February, 2013

These humourous Valentine’s socks are available at Poundland at £1 a pair

Traditional red roses, £2.45 a bunch from Buss’s

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Library news Adult Fiction – reviewed and highly recommended by Lorraine  Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend by Matthew Green Max is eight years old, Budo is five. Max is different from some children and finds it hard to make friends. This doesn’t matter to Max because he has Budo. They are insepai rable, until the day Max is kidnapped. Budo saw it happen; he knows who has taken Max and where he is being kept. He knows Max is in danger of not being found. He must help Max before it is too late. There is one problem: Budo is Max’s imaginary friend. This book is amazing! The imagination within it makes you totally believe in the characters. It flows beautifully between each chapter and I defy anyone who reads it not to be moved. In fact, it’s the only time I’ve not minded being awake at 3am!

Books of the month

with Sarah Wookey from Keynsham Library Adult Fiction – Classics  Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Having endured a miserable childhood at the hands of her aunt and at a charity school, Jane later takes a position as governess at Thornfield Hall. There she meets the intelligent, sardonic Mr Rochester, her employer, who tests both her independence of spirit and her emotions. Published in 1847, this novel both shocked and amazed readers with its passionate and compelling heroine. The perfect classy romantic read! NB. The library also stocks the DVD of Jane Eyre, starring Mia Wasikowska and Michael Fassbender.

Young Adult Fiction  Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman A fascinating book on the themes of race and prejudice, set in a world where black and white represent right and wrong. Sephy is a ‘Cross’ and Callum is a ‘Nought’ and they live in a world where noughts and crosses are not supposed to mix. As the violence in their world escalates, can these e Romeo- and Julietstyle lovers find a way to be together? The Observer reviewed it as a book “which will challenge children to think again and again about the clichés and stereotypes with which they are presented”. Junior Fiction  The Glass Collector by Anna Perera A second novel by the author of Guantanamo Boy, The Glass Collector features Aaron, a 15-year-old boy who collects

broken glass for a living in the rubbish piles of Cairo. ‘His hope? To find a fu-ture he can believe in…’. Hard-hitting yet inspiring, The Glass Collector was described by The Guardian as “an important book that deserves a wide d audience”. di ” Non-fiction  Ultimate Chocolate Recipes: The New Collection by Green & Black’s Organic This is the perfect book for the month in which Valentine’s Day falls! The second cookery book by Green & Black’s offers the chocolate-lover recipes for cakes, tarts, cheesecakes, puddings, pies, ice creams, desserts and sweets. It also includes ideas for those of us who have allergies or are dieting (yes, really!). Sample recipes are: Truly Gooey Chocolate and Hazelnut Cookies, and Heartache Chocolate Cake. Yum!

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February, 2013

Keynsham business of the month For February we meet Craig Weeks, owner of CW Fitness Solutions Tell us about your company. CW Fitness Solutions is based in family-run Keynsham gym Platinum Fitness, on Bath Hill. It offers a solution to anyone who is unhappy with their body shape, fitness or their diet. Making tailor made exercise plans and providing nutritional advice in the way of eating plans is absolutely essential. People must be treated as individuals. Everyone has a different reason for wanting help. I trained at David Lloyd health club in Cardiff and hold a diploma in advanced personal training. I am also a nutritionist and a Herbalife consultant. Obesity is now the second biggest killer in the world. I am proud to say I have helped many people change their lives for the better. What service do you provide to the people of Keynsham? People come to me and ask for help for a number of reasons ranging from weight loss to weight gain, sports-specific training through to military and emergency service fitness testing. Probably the best service I provide is the motivation and drive to help someone change their whole lifestyle. What is the best part of running your business and working in Keynsham? For years I wanted to work in the fitness industry and now I am lucky enough to run a successful business even though we are in the middle of a double dip recession. Helping people to change their lives for the better is without doubt the best part of

Craig, below right, has helped clients Kaylie and Paul get into shape my job. When fitness improves and health stats get better it is an awesome feeling. I have lived in Keynsham for the last ten years. I feel privileged to be helping so many local people. What makes your service different from other companies? I guess I do. All personal trainers are trained to help people achieve their desired goal; I always go out of my way to support my clients throughout the whole journey. This means being available 24/7. Bottom line is I

wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rest until the goal has been achieved. What are your plans for the future of the business? To continue to help as many people as I can to get fit and healthy. I plan to go into teaching and help train new personal trainers to build and retain a successful business in the fitness industry. Contact: Craig Weeks on 07917 731401, email craig@cwfitness solutions.co.uk or visit www. cwfitnesssolutions.co.uk.

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February, 2013

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Keynsham property of the month Greatwood Cottage is a delightful semi-detached period cottage, standing with its neighbour Orchard Cottage on the southern fringe of Chewton Keynsham, surrounded by countryside and with very attractive rural views. The property has been subject to considerable work during the current vendorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ownership. The house offers well balanced accommodation, a full width southerly facing living and dining room, refitted kitchen/ breakfast room, utility room and cloakroom at ground-floor level and three bedrooms and bathroom on the first floor. The property stands in a lovely setting, in total extending to in excess of an acre. The property is approached by a five-bar gate. Beyond the garage block is an area of paddock and former wooded batch which provides an idyllic recreational area while there are enclosed gardens to the front and rear of the cottage. The front overlooks open fields. Arrange a viewing at Davies & Way, 1 High Street, Keynsham, or call 0117 986 3681.

Chewton Keynsham

ÂŁ460,000 freehold

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February, 2013

Sport

Keynsham Multi-Sports courts and pitches at the Memorial Park

Get fit for free on tennis courts Residents who want to get in shape this spring or summer could take up tennis, with free use of the courts in the town’s Memorial Park. Hire of the courts at Keynsham Multi-Sports is free on weekdays, when gates are unlocked from 10am to 3.45pm. In the evening and at weekends the courts are available by collecting a key in return for a refundable £10 deposit from the town council offices at 15-17 Temple Street. The key must be collected between 9am and 4pm Mondays to Fridays.

The multisports site also caters for five-a-side football and netball. To hire a five-a-side court it costs £10.70 per hour for adults and £6.60 per hour for juniors. To use the floodlights it costs an extra £3 for adults and £1.70 for juniors. Those under the age of 12 need adult supervision at all times. If you are interested in booking the courts or require further information contact Keynsham Town Council on 0117 986 8683 or email reception@keynshamtc.gov.uk .

Strong start for Fry teams It’s been a promising start to the second half of the Avon County winter league season for both our senior teams. Fry I’s first match of 2013 was away to Bristol II. Always a tough away fixture it looked likely to be a hard start to the year. However, the Christmas break did not affect Fry’s good form and thanks to some excellent performances from all four players Fry I ran out worthy 10-0 winners. Fry II’s first match of the year was at home to Bishop Sutton II. After a close game earlier in the season against Bishop Sutton

another tight match was expected but with all players finding their best form Fry’s outclassed their opponents to ease to a 10-0 win. The results put Fry II top of division 4D although both the second and third-placed teams remain close behind and with games in hand. If you are thinking of dusting off your racquet and playing tennis this season, please contact Ann Smith on 0117 986 2845 or email medwaysmith@yahoo. co.uk. More details about Fry Tennis Club can also be found on our website www.frytennisclub. org.uk.

Your sport Do you belong to a sports club or team in Keynsham? We want to know about your activities, events and successes. Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk, or call Joni on 07887 561567 or Emma on 07715 770448.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

February, 2013

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Sport

Golfer plans another bid to turn pro Saltford golfer Shane Winstone is hoping to follow the example of his snooker friend Judd Trump and make the big breakthrough into professional golf next season. Winstone has often taken to the green beige with snooker’s world number one Trump. He said: “We lived near each other in Whitchurch, played a bit of snooker and went to the gym together. “It is great to see the success Judd has achieved and I know I can do the same. It is just a question of building up my confidence.” Shane, 27, a former Gloucestershire and Somerset amateur and member of Saltford Golf Club, is now searching for a new sponsor in his latest bid to break into professional golf. Last season he played on the tough Europro Tour, finishing 59th in the Order of Merit, which means he automatically qualifies to play on the tour again in 2013 without having to get through the qualifying school. He said: “Like most of the young players at this level I have to find a way to work and keep playing through the winter. I have been painting and decorating and last year I worked in a warehouse. “I will try to again play most of the events in Britain and Ireland but the entry fees are £225 and you are looking at four nights in hotels at each event.

I cannot afford a caddy at the moment and like a lot of other players I really need a financial backer to get started again.” After previously trying to make a professional breakthrough a few years ago Winstone reverted to amateur status and switched from Gloucestershire to Somerset, helping them to win the Channel League two years ago as one of the county’s most successful players. When he was with Gloucestershire he had been European tour star Chris Woods’ regular foursomes partner. His career highlight was reaching the semi-finals of the English Amateur Championship at Royal St Georges in 2007. His week started with a record-breaking round of 64 in qualifying at Royal Cinque Ports. Next he won the Knowle Gold Medal, the City and County of Bristol at Henbury and the South West Youths title to claim the county's order of merit crown for the Duchess Salver for a second time. He hoped his performance that year would bring recognition with a place in one of the EGU England squads, so funding would be available to play a full season of amateur golf. But he was overlooked. That was when he turned away from the amateur game. Now he hopes this second venture to succeed as a professional will be more successful.

Shaping up with Steve Beere from StudioFit Hello everyone! January is out the way and hopefully you have started to think about becoming a little more active. We go through a process when trying to change our behaviour and often come up against challenges and obstacles. I encourage my clients to work out an activity plan and this way you can foresee any potential barriers and figure out ways to overcome them in advance so that they do not affect your training. This time of year my clients and members are all keen to start working on their appearance ready for their summer holidays, with this comes the urge to try new and bizarre diets alongside their exercise regime.

If you are looking to lose weight and want a healthy, more balanced diet here are a few simple tips to help you out. Try to eat a minimum of five portions of fruit and veg per day and try eating a rainbow by eating different colours. Eat at least one portion of oily fish per week, try reducing the total fat you consume and, most of all, reduce the amount of saturated fat in your diet, reduce the amount of sugar and salt in your diet, try to cut down on snacking and drink lots of water! For more information on healthy eating why not try out one of our Boot Camps and have your diet analysed for you. Have a great month, see you in March!

“We go through a process when trying to change our behaviour and often come up against challenges”

It seems there’s no stopping Jamie Fourteen-year-old Jamie Hawkins defeated Aaron Lowe 3-2 in the final to continue an amazing run of results when again winning Keynsham’s open snooker tournament on Sunday, January 27. Jamie Hawkins took the £100 first prize and in earlier matches also scored wins over Des Gilbert, Colin Streams, Ben Wright and in the semi-final Steve Tippetts. To reach the final

Aaron Lowe scored wins over Luke Stilwell, Danny Hawkins, Alan Box, Nigel Turk and in the semi-final Chris Stephenson. It seemed there is no stopping the boy, after Jamie Hawkins also defeated Conor Mitchell in the final to win Keynsham's junior snooker event on Saturday, January 26. Adam Shovelton defeated Micheal Dykes 7-3 in the final to win Keynsham's junior pool event also on January 26.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

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February, 2013

Sport

First team must dig deep to turn their fortunes around Recent losses and games lost to bad weather will force Keynsham Rugby Club to dig deep to avoid relegation in the second half of the season, writes correspondent Fee Tupp. Only one first XV game has been completed since the last report; this was an away loss at Cirencester RFC. Despite an improved performance they were unable to secure any league points losing by 9 points (7-16). This result sees them slump to second bottom of the Western Counties League. Their points came from a Ben Newman try, converted by Ben Bolster. It looks likely that they will now have to struggle against the odds to stay up in the Western Counties League this season. Home wins will be essential. In contrast, the seconds have won all three games contested, and now sit comfortably in the middle of Somerset Premier League. They edged past Minehead with the last move of the game –Sam Stewart scoring in the corner after a flowing series of moves. Matt Randle and Russ Tanner were the other scorers, Rob Breckon adding a conversion. Final score 17-14. Next up, they demolished Wiveliscombe 24-0 and secured a try bonus point with Rob Breckon, Tom Cheyney (two) and Matty lewis crossing for tries; Breckon adding two conversions. Another try bonus was secured in beating Imperial 24-8 in the other game. An abysmal second half was preceded by a workman like first half which saw tries from Brad Newton, Tony Harvey and Rocky O’Keefe. The fourth was a penalty try awarded when the dominant Keynsham advancing scrum was collapsed by the desperate defence. Rob Breckon converted two and hit the uprights with two other attempts. The thirds won one, lost one and played a friendly match. There was a great away win at Frome 36-7. Dan Shearn scored the club’s first try of 2013 and Tony Harvey, Dan Harvey, Chris Bakker and John Pearce added tries and, at the third attempt

Sam Williams starts to get the attack going for Keynsham Seconds against Imperial Photo: Richard Angel

Damian Cummins managed one as well. Additional points were from Pearce’s boot. A score line of 26-5 did no justice to the local team, whose endeavour was exemplary when they played a much stronger Bristol Harlequins side at Brislington. Man of the match Damian Cummings scored Keynsham’s only points. James Hurrell-Smith (three), Nick Hatcliffe, Tom Cheyney, Damian Cummins, Louis Bush, Phil Harvey and Geoff Green scored the tries in the 49-5 friendly against North Bristol at the Crown Field. The fourths also had two league games and a friendly. Despite dominating the forwards’

battle, they lost 15-25 at Nailsea & Backwell. Keynsham’s points came from tries by Marsh and Adam Standers; Dave Scott added a fine drop goal and a conversion. They then had a fine league win over Bath Old Edwardians 42-15. A superb second half saw Mike Marsh’s team surge ahead from a 15-15 half time score. James ‘Toualangi’ Marsh, playing in the centre, scored a try and he was joined on the score sheet by debutante Tony Morris, James Preston, Kieran Harvey and Al Sweeting. Highlight of the friendly fixture against Old Reds, sandwiched between these games,

was a magnificent side-step by skipper Mike Marsh, which fooled everyone on the field of play, and most of those on the side line, too!

Your sport Do you belong to a sports club or team in Keynsham? We want to know about your activities, events and successes. If you want to be featured in Keynsham Voice, email news@ keynshamvoice.co.uk, or call Joni on 07887 561567 or Emma on 07715 770448.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

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TRADE SERVICES

Puzzle solutions

AGRICULTURAL

BUILDING SERVICES

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BUILDING SERVICES

January, 2013

BUILDING SERVICES

CARPET CLEANING

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CLEANING SERVICES

DRIVEWAYS

February, 2013

www.keynshamvoice.co.uk GARDENING

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FUNERAL SERVICES

LOGS FOR SALE

PAINTING & DECORATING

PET CARE

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HYPNOTHERAPY

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

February, 2013

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PET CARE

TAKEAWAY

WELLBEING

PET SUPPLIES

TIMBER MERCHANTS

WINDOW CLEANING

PLASTERING

TREE SURGERY

WINDOWS AND DOORS

TYRES

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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 or 07715 770448. Got news? Call Joni on 07887 561567. Email: emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk