hanham&longwellgreenvoice July, 2020 Issue 45
www.hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
Together in South Gloucestershire: getting back on our feet
A
S lockdown eases, South Gloucestershire Council is making changes to help revive its communities while keeping people safe. In this special edition of The Voice, we explain the plans, how you can help, and how to get help if you need it. New measures will help make social distancing easier, revive the economy and support everyone to adapt to a ‘new normal’. The changes could bring extra longterm benefits too – for instance, new social distancing measures outside re-opened schools are already improving air quality. The council is also pedestrianising some high streets and widening pavements. This is not only supporting social distancing but creating more pleasant environments in which to shop and socialise. Read about how council services are changing and plans for high streets and other public spaces on the next page.
Supporting businesses South Gloucestershire Council is supporting and advising local businesses as they face the challenges posed by Covid-19. It has administered different grants including the Small Business Grant Fund, the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund and the Discretionary Grant. So far it has issued over £34 million in funding to businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors, and to small and micro businesses who have experienced a drop in income. To find out how to apply,
see the contact details on the back page.
Safety first: how you can help Safety remains the top priority for the council. We are still at a critical point in the Covid-19 pandemic because the virus will continue to be with us until there is a vaccine. Everyone can help by continuing with social distancing, practising good hand hygiene, and selfisolation at home and getting tested if they have symptoms, to manage the spread of the virus.
How the council can help you The council offers a wide range of help and can also put you in touch with community support groups in your area. Full details of how to get help are on the back page.
Getting around The council wants to encourage people who have taken up cycling or walking more during lockdown to use this as their regular way of getting around. Less traffic means more space on streets, improving the experience for cyclists and pedestrians. It has introduced new measures such as temporary changes to the road layout under Bristol Parkway railway bridge. The extra space on either side of the lane is designated for people walking or cycling under the bridge and helps them to keep a safe distance from each other.
View from the Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, Cllr Toby Savage WELCOME to this special edition of The Voice. It’s here especially for those South Gloucestershire residents who may not have easy access to the internet - just one of the steps we’ve taken to try to reach everyone. The Voice is a local business that we’re very proud to partner with. Thank you so much for your support during this crisis. I saw for myself how hard our frontline workers are working when I went out with our waste collection teams last month. We’re all having to get used to a new normal whether it’s wearing face coverings or remembering to always keep a social distance. In this issue, we explain what to do if you need support, especially if you’re not online. We share the positive steps we’re taking as lockdown eases to revive the district and move forward. We’re adapting our services and supporting local businesses as they emerge from lockdown, including our much-loved high street shops. We also showcase volunteers (on the inside back page) – those fantastic individuals contributing enormously to our communities. If you’re already volunteering then a big thank you. If you haven’t tried it, then why not give it a go?
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SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SPECIAL EDITION
Making publicplaces safer COUNCILS have been directed by government to introduce measures as quickly as possible to help make social distancing in public places easier. Last month, South Gloucestershire Council published ‘Making Public Places Safer’. This explains the measures it is putting in place in high streets, parks and open spaces, routes to work, at bus stops and outside schools. As well as helping to control and limit the spread of Covid-19, these measures should also help ‘lock in’ some of the positive changes such as an increase in cycling and fewer cars on the road. The funding for this work comes from central government through the West of England Combined Authority.
High Streets Our high streets will look and feel different as the lockdown is lifted. Shops, restaurants and cafes may start to trade outside, immediately in front of their premises, and have space for customers to queue outside too. People will need extra space to get around safely and maintain social distancing, whether on foot or by bike. In some places, this will mean road space for cars will need to be reduced. Council car parks and disabled parking will be maintained however and continue to be free for all. The council wants to make it as easy and safe as possible for people to access their local high street, kickstart the economy and support businesses so it is introducing measures to support more walking and cycling in and around town centres and local communities. This will support local trade and business by enabling easy and safe access. Changes to some local high streets are already helping with this. For example, in Thornbury, the High Street between The Close and Castle Court is now closed to all through traffic, effectively pedestrianising the town centre, allowing people to shop safely and with confidence. Some retailers can trade from directly outside their premises, adding a welcoming and vibrant feel to the area.
Parks and open spaces All skate parks, tennis courts and multi-use games areas that the council is responsible for are now open in parks and open spaces. This is in line with government advice and follows risk assessments and safety inspections of all the sites. The council has put in various measures including locking open some gates to reduce contact, ‘give way’ systems to people entering or exiting, and social distancing signs and markings on the ground.
Schools New social distancing measures at school entrances and on nearby roads include reminders of the requirements on signs and on pavements outside almost 30 primary and some secondary schools. These schools were prioritised because of their location in a busy area or because they have narrow access. To provide more room for parents to take their children back to school safely, the council has suspended parking bays outside some of these schools.
Adapting council services
Household waste collections in South Gloucestershire are back to normal. At the time of going to print, Mangotsfield, Thornbury and Yate Sort It recycling centres are opening between 6am and 4.30pm seven days a week until further notice. They accept the normal range of waste and recycling apart from clothing and textiles. Little Stoke Sort It recycling centre and the Re-use Shop at the Thornbury site remain temporarily closed. The council hopes to open its libraries gradually from July. These libraries will offer a Click and Collect service for books and other items. IT services will be available through bookable slots. Gradual opening will mean the council can review how well the new way of doing things is working before opening more libraries. Public toilets will open where possible, in line with government guidance, as will customer service One Stop Shops.
hanham&longwellgreenvoice July, 2020 Issue 45
www.hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
FREE EVERY MONTH IN HANHAM & LONGWELL GREEN
Gymnasts win Team GB places Stacey Godden and four others from Majestics Gymnastics in Longwell Green have been selected for the GB team for the European Championships. PAGE 10
Back in the game! IT'S been a tough few months since coronavirus struck. We had little choice but to suspend publication and delivery of Hanham & Longwell Green Voice for safety's sake, though we tried to keep readers up to date via our website and Facebook. Now, at last, we are able to return and, like these sporting youngsters from The Meadows Primary School
in Bitton, we intend to keep up the momentum. Thanks to all the advertisers whose support has enabled us to come back. it's great to share the stories of how everyone has coped during the lockdown and we look forward to continuing to bring you news and events from Hanham, Longwell Green and the surrounding area.
Pitch battle gets under way Opinion is split over plans for an artifical grass football pitch at Longwell Green Community Centre. PAGE 13
Nurseries are back in action The Hanham-based Mama Bear's group has reopened its nurseries as the coronavirus pandemic eases. PAGE 18
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Hanham & Longwell Green Voice contacts Publisher Emma Cooper 0117 908 2121 / 07715 770448 sales@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk Editor Follow us on Twitter Linda Tanner @ twitter.com/Hanham LWGvoice 0777 0700579 news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk Erica Benson Advertising Sales 0117 908 2121 sales@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk Find us on Facebook Journalist www.facebook.com/ Keri Beckingham hanhamandlongwell greenvoice 0796 7277090 news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
August deadline Our August edition deadline is July 22. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by then. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Hanham & Longwell Green Voice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
Useful numbers South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Citizens Advice Bureau 0344 499 4718 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk General enquiries: 101 Emergency: 999
Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware (health and social care information) www.wellaware.org.uk Freephone: 0808 808 5252
Complaints Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Hanham & Longwell Green Voice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website here, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher. PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Hanham and Longwell Green Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Hanham and Longwell Green Voice is distributed each month to residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or sales@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk This month 9,500 copies will be distributed around Hanham and Longwell Green.
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July, 2020
n NEWS
Covid-19 support PEOPLE in Hanham have been asked to continue supporting their local Covid-19 group despite some easing of the lockdown measures. The Covid-19 BS15 – Hanham support group was set up on Facebook by resident Vicky Robinson in March. After seeing that Councillor Andrea Reid had set up one for Kingswood, she got in touch to see if something similar could be created for Hanham too. The group has gone from strength to strength and has provided services to support people with food shopping, prescriptions collections, dog walking, and food parcels, as well as providing assistance to parents who have children with special needs. Vicky told the Voice the response from residents has been fantastic, and said she had been overwhelmed by the community spirit she has seen. She said: “It’s been the craziest three and a half months
of my life! I’ve not had a single day off, and at the start I was working from six in the morning until 11 at night to get everything set up. My background is mainly in marketing and HR, and I also used to run a care home, but I have never done anything voluntary in my life until now. “I have loved every minute; it’s been hard and there has been some pretty heartbreaking stories along the way, but the sense of community has been phenomenal – I can see more people saying hello to each other now when I walk down the street. “At the start we distributed leaflets to 18,000 addresses in BS15, after receiving funding from the local parish councils, which informed people about our service and the help they can access. We have also just created a 24 page booklet for residents, offering more advice on how people can get help and also get support with their mental health. “During this time we have
Coronavirus claims 10 lives CORONAVIRUS has claimed the lives of 10 people in Longwell Green and Hanham, according to the latest official figures. An in-depth breakdown from the Office for National Statistics, released in June, shows deaths from every area in the country which involved Covid-19 in March, April and May. The ONS has divided the country into small geographic areas, each with a population of around 7,500 people, and recorded how many people in each area died with coronavirus. Nine virus-related deaths were recorded recorded in Longwell Green and Oldland Common and one in Hanham. Cadbury Heath was also affected, with nine deaths in the north of the patch, which includes Bridgeyate, and another nine in the south, which includes North Common. Twenty six deaths were recorded in the three Kingswood areas.
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group's plea: We still need your help seen lots of mental health issues like anxiety creep up, especially with children, and we have listed details of over 30 organisations where people can get help. Local business advertising has helped to cover some of cost of this, which is great. “As part of our work we have linked up with the Kingswood Food Bank, and have raised over £4000 in donations for them. Kingswood Community Transport have been absolutely amazing, and they have carried out all deliveries for the food bank and also helped with prescription collections, all on a voluntary basis. In addition, The New Rupali Tandoori in Kingswood has offered free curries once a month to Ignite Life so they could distribute to families in need in the area, and our volunteers have delivered them to the families. “A lot of people have also been re-housed during this time with no money or furniture. With
Volunteers deliver curries the support of residents we have been able to fully kit out three properties with furniture, all of which has been donated by residents which is amazing. “One of the houses we kitted out was for someone who had been housed but was literally sleeping on floor with a sheet. They were so grateful for our help that they wanted to do something in return, and now they walk a greyhound for couple that are shielding.
“We are going to keep the group running for as long as we can, especially for people who choose to self isolate for 14 days, people with mobility issues and also elderly people who may be nervous about going out. We have done well over 1000 jobs since we started and received over 2000 phone calls, and some people we have helped been unbelievably grateful. I’d like to say a huge thanks to all of the volunteers and everyone who has
supported the BS15 team so far.” Vicky also told the Voice that the group has seen a significant drop in volunteers since people have been returning to work, and that they still need local people to help them, even if they are only able to do one food shop a week alongside their normal shop. To contact the group and to find out more about their work, call 0808 164 1047 or visit www. bs15-support.org.
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July, 2020
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Enjoying the ‘spirit’ of Abbeyfield in Hanham ESTABLISHED in 1956 to Memorial Road, Hanham, “The create friendly and supportive current restrictions on visitors and communities where older people socialising go against our core can live together, the restrictive values of providing companionship measures and rigid social and bringing people together. But distancing rules as a result of the everyone here is wholly committed current Coronavirus outbreak to maintaining the ‘spirit’ of are go against everything that Abbeyfield and we are working retirement charity, Abbeyfield hard to ensure that life is disrupted Bristol & Keynsham, aims to as little as possible and continuing achieve. to provide the very highest However, with residents’ standards of support”. health and safety at the forefront To keep residents occupied, of concerns, the organisation the staff at Kift Lodge put together introduced a ‘new normal’ early a new varied programme of on in the outbreak: with social activities for the Summer, which distancing measures, split can be done safely and with social mealtimes to avoid too many distancing in mind. “We haven’t residents in one room at the same been able to bring in our usual time, and strict limits on outings entertainers, musicians and keep and visitors. fit specialists, so we needed to “The last 3 months have been make some changes to enhance such a strange time for everyone,” our residents’ well-being and Abbey hp ads AW.qxp_Layout 1 26/03/2019 11:35 Page 2 said Joleigh Hayward, manager keep people together, ” continues at Abbeyfield’s Kift Lodge on Joleigh, “It’s meant our residents
have enjoyed more of the activities we can do safely within the space in the house, such as poetry sessions, quizzes, arts and crafts, film nights, croquet and exercise classes”. Since lockdown, the weather has been a true bonus for everybody across Bristol and “Pimms and Strawberries” afternoons in the garden seems to
have been the most well-attended events. And, now with families permitted to visit residents in the gardens, there’s even more reason to smile. Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham is looking at how it can safely appraise and admit new residents in the immediate future. Please get in touch 0117 973 6997 www. abbeyfield-bristol.co.uk
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n NEWS
Jacob from The Park: speed bounce
Jake from The Park running
Holly from The Tynings gets set
Ben, from Tynings, with certificates
Winning ways to keep our children active JOE Wicks might have grabbed the headlines, but the TV exercise guru is not the only fitness inspiration for children in Kingswood during the lockdown. Hundreds of youngsters have been given exciting ideas to keep them active throughout the last three months by the hardworking and innovative team at CSET Primary Sports Partnership. Children have taken part in a huge range of events, including cross country, athletics, gymnastics, dance and tennis - mostly in their homeuuu ]]] 0s and back gardens. Wendy O’Donnell and her team - Dean Garrett, Alex Carter and Julie Arbury - have
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set a range of daily and weekly challenges, which can be carried out in school or at home. They have come up with many creative ideas to ensure that primary pupils can participate even if they have little access to outdoor space. Orienteering, for example, involves finding a list of household objects and timing yourself retrieving them. Many of the daily challenges are designed to encourage children to practise and reach their personal best. Catching and throwing sessions have included trying to get a teabag into a cup and using a pair of rolled-up socks as a ball. “We really want all children
to have a go,” said Wendy. “Anyone who times themself on a challenge and sends in a score to us, receives a participation certificate. "We also encourage children and parents to send us photos and videos we can share on Twitter@CSETSports1 “We have been sending out the challenges every week, even during school holidays, and teachers say it is something they value and the children love taking part in. As well as individual challenges, we have run home and school interschool competitions. It’s a lot of admin to work out all the scores but it is worth it.
"We’ve had some lovely positive feedback from parents too.” Some of the challenges are open to staff and parents too, with the cross-country becoming particularly competitive. The team have even recreated some of the big summer events such as the MaD Olympiad and the CSET Games virtually for schools and children at home. Among the schools involved are Barrs Court, Beacon Rise, Cadbury Heath, Cherry Garden, Hanham Abbots Junior, Samuel White’s Infant, Longwell Green, Our Lady of Lourdes, Parkwall, Redfield Edge, St Barnabas C of E and Warmley Park.
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July, 2020
n NEWS
Roundabout work due to start soon PLANS for major improvements to Wraxall Road roundabout on the Avon Ring Road have been given the green light by residents. Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore has added his backing to the 60 percent of local people who voiced support for the £6.9 million ‘through-about’ scheme, which has now received full approval by Mayor Tim Bowles from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). The roundabout, which is near the end of Tower Lane in the south-east of Kingswood and north-west of Cadbury Heath, is the last ring road roundabout in South Gloucestershire to receive major investment. It experiences traffic queues during the busiest hours on weekdays, and queuing not only causes delays to traffic on the
A4174 but also to vehicles entering the roundabout using Tower Lane and Wraxall Road. Bus services are also affected, and these delays are expected to increase as traffic levels grow. WECA had previously awarded £1.7 million to develop the scheme and it has now agreed the final £5.2 million, with South Gloucestershire Council funding the £97,000 increase in costs that have occurred since the design stage. As part of the plans, extra lanes and traffic lights will be added to the roundabout to improve capacity at pinch-points. WECA says this is essential for the West of England’s infrastructure to meet future housing and economic growth. Construction work on the junction is expected to start on August 1 2020 and is due for completion 12 months later.
£50k boost for Banjo Island COMMUNITY and sports facilities in Cadbury Heath are set to receive a boost of more than £50,000 The Banjo Island Community and Sports Association, based at Coronation Park in Cadbury Heath, will receive a total £52,212.42 investment for upgrades to facilities and equipment for people of all ages. The funding will see improvements to the grass pitches, with better drainage and an increase in seating for players and spectators; upgraded changing rooms with a better physio area, and the purchase of new sporting equipment. The association hopes to increase the number of older adults, physically and mentally disabled adults and children from vulnerable families using the facilities. The money is Section 106 funding, which comes from contributions from developers in negotiation with South Gloucestershire Council. It is used to support developments that benefit the new and existing residents nearby. Councillors Sam Bromiley and Elizabeth Bromiley, who represent the Parkwall and Warmley ward, including Cadbury Heath, said: “We are delighted this funding has been secured by the council. It is great news for our community and will benefit people of all ages, including those who might otherwise be less likely to enjoy participating in sport. “It is important that as lockdown measures continue to relax and local people can return to a more normal way of life, they have the facilities and equipment on hand and this investment will help to ensure that is the case for years to come.” It is not yet known when the upgrading work will take place.
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n NEWS
Football club fight goes into extra time THE lengthy battle over plans for a “mini stadium” for AEK Boco in Hanham will be discussed by councillors again this month. But the final decision on the ambitous plans will have to be made by the Planning Inspectorate, following an appeal by the club over council delays. AEK Boco was granted permission for two 50-seat stands, four 18-metre floodlights, and a 1.2m pitch perimeter fence at their Greenbank Road ground in July last year. However, it wants the council to lift a restriction on floodlighting times, and permit the 1.83m fence that it needs for promotion to the Toolstation Western League. The club also says it needs to improve facilities to comply with FA requirements, and the application would allow for women’s and youth teams to also use the floodlit facilities. The club applied for the amendments in September last year and the request finally went to the council’s development management committee just before lockdown, but councillors voted to defer their decision until they knew how many evening matches are permitted by the club’s lease agreement with the landlord, which is also South Gloucestershire Council. During the meeting in March, resident
Dennis Kerr spoke in support, highlighting the club’s contribution to the community and player development and expressed concern that if the club moved away then some, if not all of the sports pitches would be lost to residential development. James Brown, another resident, opposed the plan, stating that additional use of the pitches and lighting would significantly affect surrounding residents, and cause additional traffic, noise and anti-social behaviour. Councillor Ernie Brown questioned whether the height of the proposed perimeter fencing exceeds FA guidelines,. Councillor Brown requested a more detailed assessment of why the fence must be 1.83m high. He said Little Stoke football club operates successfully without such a fence. The club launched its appeal in May, stating it had made the application for the revised conditions in September, and that a decision had not been made within approved timescales. The club says that planning officers had given councillors all the facts and that details of the lease were irrelevant. The application will go before the development management committee on July 9. If councillors endorse the recommendation of approval, the local planning authority
(LPA) appeal statement will be submitted by Monday July 13. If they don’t, a resolution would then need to be made by the spatial planning committee on Monday July 27. A council spokesman said: “An appeal has been lodged against the non-determination of the application, and the decision will therefore be made by the Planning Inspectorate. However the application will appear at a future committee meeting, to enable councillors to reach a resolution and confirm what the decision of the council would have been, had they been in a position to determine the application. The resolution made at this meeting will form the council’s statement of case for the appeal.” Local resident Kim Madan told the Voice: “Since lockdown there hasn’t been any football played on the fields, which has been so lovely. Instead people have been using it as somewhere to go out for jogging or picnics, it’s been like it was years ago, which is really nice. “We’ve lived here for nearly 30 years and it has always been a pitch for casual amateur football, but now it feels like it’s going to be something much more serious. For us, we think it just seems to be going a step too far for the space that is available.”
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n OUR PLANET MATTERS
The strangest of strange times How have you been in these strangest of strange times? I guess a mixture of ups and downs and certainly a time of contrasts, with some locked down alone getting a bit fed up with their own company, whilst others locked down with a houseful longing for a bit of solitude: some struggling to find things to do and others with not a minute to spare as they cope with working from home and, at the same time, taking on the new role of teacher. Then there’s the weather! (the British are renowned for talking about it). Wetter than ever before! Dryer than ever before! Hotter than ever before! And not just in the UK. In India some of the mountain roads have been washed away because they’ve had so much rain over the last 2 winters and in southern Spain, at the time of year when they expect warm sunshine, there have been hail storms with hailstones the size of golf balls. Could this be to do with global warming & climate breakdown? Did you see the stars in the amazingly clear skies when the world was in lockdown and air pollution, just for a very short while, became history? Did you have a chance to get out into the fields and see the beautiful spring flowers and hear the birdsong? I find it ironic that a nasty indiscriminately destructive virus is able to give us a glimpse of how we might be able to restore what we (earthlings) have damaged. I feel a real heaviness of heart for people worldwide who have lost loved ones to covid 19 and also for other
reasons during lockdown making it so difficult to bring comfort and say goodbyes because of distancing and isolation. But my heart is heavier when I think of pollution & climate breakdown that is already affecting far more people worldwide than covid 19 and is so destructive to the natural world around us. I would like to thank everyone out there who, in whatever way, has kept us going during lockdown. Thank you for the cheery greetings from strangers, the chats out in the fields and especially in the supermarket queues making the time pass so quickly. What can we learn from all this? How might we be able to pull together to influence what is happening globally – after all we are part of a global crisis? During lockdown I enrolled on a course for hopeful activists. It was a real inspiration. It changed my thinking and I will say a bit more about it next time, hopefully as an encouragement to us all to keep going, think big and to really enjoy finding ways of making our planet a greener place. Penny prwaller29@gmail.com
July, 2020
n NEWS
Katie Iles
Larissa Royal
Paige Phillips
James Langley
Majestics gymnasts get international call-up THREE gymnasts and two coaches from Majestic Gymnastics in Longwell Green have been selected to represent Great Britain at the TeamGym European Championships in the autumn. Gymnasts Katie Iles, Larissa Royal, Paige Phillips, development coach James Langley are due to compete at the event in Copenhagen in October while Stacey Godden has been chosen for a management role. The gymnasts, ranging in age from 12 to 22, have been competing for many years and their hard work on tumble track, trampette and floor paid off with their success at the selection event in March. Majestics are raising money to enable them to take part in the championships.If you can help, email info@majesticgymnastics.co.uk For more information visit www.majesticgymnastics.co.uk
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
July, 2020
11
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
Still providing companionship and support
T
HESE are unprecedented times, but at Home Instead Senior Care Bristol East they are continuing to provide daily companionship and home care support to their clients across Hanham, Keynsham, Chew Valley, Kingswood, Longwell Green and surrounding areas. Their mission is to enable older people to live comfortably in their own home for as long as possible through their team of dedicated CAREGivers, who are matched specifically to their client to ensure they build long and trusting relationships. The team at Home Instead knows that quality care cannot be delivered in short, rushed visits, so care calls are always a minimum of one hour in duration. The COVID-19 pandemic is especially challenging for those with elderly loved ones. In these difficult times, Home Instead’s professionally trained CAREGivers have continued to go above and beyond to keep their clients happy, healthy, and safe within their own homes.
The team recently supported a new client who was in self isolation and shielding. He was struggling to get around his home, so they set to and arranged for him to receive a wheelchair so he could move more easily. His CAREGivers are thrilled to have seen a huge improvement in his emotional state and in his confidence, smiles all around. Joe Spitzer, owner of Home Instead Bristol East, said: “Never has the need for home care been so much in the spotlight. I am so proud of our incredible team who are safely supporting our clients – whether it’s collecting shopping and prescriptions, impromptu haircuts, helping with personal care or simply having a chat”. “With families and friends unable to visit, the reassurance of knowing that their CAREGiver will be there for them makes such a difference to our clients. We are committed to making a difference and regard it as a special privilege to look after older people with love, care and compassion.” The team at Home Instead can provide services such as
companionship, help around the house, personal care, as well as support for people living with dementia. Above: Office Team with Registered Care Manager - Irina Derozinska (Right) and Office Administrator - Pip Clark Right: Our client Mr B with his lovely CAREGivers Kelsie and Rachael
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
12
July, 2020
n AROUND THE WIs LONGWELL GREEN WI LIFE has become very different for us all over the past few months. We have all had to become used to staying indoors and keeping ourselves busy. Longwell Green WI members have certainly been doing that – we have been busy sewing and knitting. So far we have made laundry bags for scrubs which have been warmly welcomed by Southmead Hospital staff; face mask extenders for hospital and ambulance staff; newborn baby hats for the Birth Centre at Cossham Hospital; hats, scarves and gloves for the Seamen’s Mission in Portbury Dock; hearts for Covid patients and their families, some of which were sent to the Great Western Hospital in Swindon; and blankets for care homes when we are able to visit again. We have been sharing information about food deliveries, interesting snippets and even poems via a weekly newsletter which has been emailed out or posted to all members and also staying in touch via WhatsApp. At the beginning of the lockdown period, all members were assigned a group with two Committee members and encouraged to stay in touch by telephone. Several of
our members have been assisting those who have been shielding or unable to leave their homes for whatever reason by delivering shopping and even paying bills on their behalf! We have shared jigsaws, knitting wool and seeds to keep ourselves busy. We are embracing the new easing of restrictions and meeting with family and friends in our gardens – socially distanced of course! – and are looking forward to the time when we can ALL meet again. Longwell Green WI meet on the third Friday of the month at 7.30 in the Ellacombe Room at Longwell Green Community Centre and new members are always welcome. At present we cannot say when we will be able to hold our next meeting but if you are interested in visiting us please get in touch by email at longwellwi@gmail.com or telephone 0117 9864782. Sandra Hill
HANHAM EVENING WI NOT even the global pandemic can stop the ladies of the Hanham Evening Branch from getting on with things. It’s not quite been business as usual with all meetings, functions and trips cancelled since early March. But, undeterred, the
branch committee has carried on regardless with their business. Welfare of branch members during lockdown was a priority for the committee and they tried to keep in touch with everyone either by email or ringing around to make sure they were safe and well. The committee also managed to hold a couple of meetings, not using any sort of video conferencing but by just speaking to each other on the telephone and making use of emails, even managing to minute the “meetings” for future reference. A comment from a branch member who had read all her books and was looking for something fresh to read sparked an idea amongst some committee members. This was to hold a “Book Fayre” …. of sorts …. with the proceeds going to this year’s Branch nominated charity. Branch members were asked to donate unwanted books and one of the committee members volunteered to hold the “Fayre” on her driveway, using pasting tables to display the books. Members were asked to make a contribution for any books they took which went to the
designated charity. The “Fayre” was held on two successive mornings in early June and all members were invited to attend. To ensure there was no overcrowding and to comply with social distancing rules a booking system (excuse the pun) was put in place. Members were asked to ring in advance to book a time slot and not just to turn up when they felt like it. They were also asked to wear gloves but the branch did provide hand sanitisers. Both mornings were bright and sunny and many members came along to support the event which turned out to be very successful raising over £100 for the nominated charity. The branch is looking forward to getting back to some sort of normality when restrictions are relaxed. Dianna Coles
n KINGSWOOD HERITAGE MUSEUM
Douglas Motorcycles - the pride of our area THE Douglas Motorcycle factory that was situated in Kingswood produced motorcycles from 1907 to 1957. It was especially known for its horizontally opposed twin cylinder engined bikes and as a manufacturer of racing machines, and employed up to 3,000 people. At one time in the early 20th century the Douglas Motorcycle factory was the largest motorcycle factory in the world. Its racing bikes won many competitions in the hands of both men and women, including 150 races across the world in just one year in the 1930’s. Douglas was a major motorcycle supplier to the British Army during World War 1, producing around 25,000 motorcycles for military dispatch riders. Kingswood Heritage Museum houses a collection of seven perfectly maintained motorbikes produced by the
Douglas Motorcycle factory. The Museum display contains examples of some of the earliest Douglas 'bikes and other items manufactured by the factory. These include a Vespa scooter, made under licence in the 1950s
and fitted with a sidecar, and a World War I military dispatch rider motorcyle. Every year the Museum hosts the Douglas Cavalcade, a display organised by the Douglas Motorcycle Club.
If it’s News Email: news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
Sir Tony Robinson, the Museum’s patron, is pictured (above) astride a Douglas motorcycle with Bill Douglas, a Trustee of the Museum and grandson of the founder of the Douglas Motorcycle Company.
July, 2020
n NEWS
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
13
Opinions differ on football pitch plan RESIDENTS have expressed their views over plans for a new Artificial Grass Pitch (AGP) at Longwell Green Community Centre. It is proposed that the AGP will replace the grass football pitch that is currently home to Longwell Green Sports FC, in order to enable increased sporting provisions and facilities for club players, local community sports clubs and visiting groups. According the planning document, which was submitted by Labosport: “The plan is to increase grassroots football development and to encourage whole-life sport for young aspiring footballers via enhanced pathways into open-age football. “The journey from minisoccer to open-age football will be improved with stronger links between Longwell Green Sports FC and local school’s clubs made possible with the proposed AGP; and via pre-arranged and structured community access.”
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South Gloucestershire Council has received more than 300 comments on the proposal, split fairly equally between supporters and opponents. The plans include the 7420 square metre pitch, as well as associated features including: 4.50m high ball stop fencing and entrance gates to the AGP perimeter; 1.20m high pitch barriers with entrance gates; 2.1m high team shelters and hard-standing areas for portable goals storage, pedestrian circulation and access as well as vehicular maintenance and emergency access. A floodlighting system upgrade is also proposed, along with a new maintenance equipment storage container, 3m high replacement spectator stands and 3.5m, 4.0m and 4.5m high acoustic barriers. It is expected that the AGP will operate from 9am to 10pm Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 8pm on Sundays and Bank
Holidays. It will also be closed and locked each evening, with a final curfew time of 10.15pm Monday to Saturday and 8.15pm. Sunday and Bank Holidays. The plans acknowledge there will be increased traffic movements as a result of the AGP, but say there is enough car parking provision onsite for all club players and community visitors. In addition to this, Longwell Green Community Centre plan to promote a travel plan in terms of car sharing, a drop-off/collect system and the use of green travel methods including walking, cycling and the use of public transport. However, despite these assurances residents have raised a number of objections to the plan. Comments include: “We are directly affected by these plans and object on the grounds of the light and noise pollution to our house and garden. We have been affected by the original
Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX
floodlights but they were only in use a couple of evenings per week. These new plans will significantly affect the quality of our home life from the amount of time that they will be in use”, and “Increased use of traffic, will mean the car park will be full and visitors will end up parking down the side roads off Long Beach Road and cutting through causing problems for residents.” In support, comments include: “What a fantastic opportunity for the football club, everyone associated with it and the local community! The potential a facility like this can provide is huge!”, and “I highly support the plans, I think it would be a great addition to Longwell Green Football Club and the greater community.” The application (reference: P20/07175/F) is awaiting approval by South Gloucestershire Council. To find out more, visit: https:// developments.southglos.gov.uk/.
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
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July, 2020
n PHARMACY BLOG
Have you had virus? Find out with a Covid-19 antibody test
0117 9322293 24 Ellacombe Road, Longwell Green, BS30 9BA Column by Jess Williams of Ellacombe Pharmacy aims to help educate patients on a range of conditions and provide information to help maintain their well being whilst also easing pressure on GP surgeries by promoting self care
ARE you still wondering if you have already contracted the coronavirus? Many people including, so-called asymptomatic cases could have. Showing no symptoms or very mild symptoms so now remaining unsure. We can now help provide an answer. ELLACOMBE Pharmacy, a Bristol Travel and Vaccination Services Clinic, now offers an accurate affordable antibody test to answer the question –Have I had the virus or not? Providing peace of mind alongside a better understanding of your experiences so far. With the easing of lockdown, many individuals, families and business are having to make tough decisions –literally undertaking their own coronavirus risk assessments as they plan and make decisions on how to best protect themselves, loved ones and employees. The antibody test will tell you whether you’ve previously had the virus that causes COVID-19 and if your body has produced an immune response. Antibody tests differ to virus swab (PCR) tests, which test to see if you currently have the virus. Our antibody test is a simple ’finger-prick’ type, similar to a diabetes
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test and is only available through registered healthcare professionals. The results are available in 10 minutes and we interpret and discuss the implications with you. The evidence is still emerging to determine if those who have had the virus develop long-lasting immunity that protects them from getting the virus again. The results of an antibody test do not mean making changes to personal behaviour, such as easing social distancing measures that protect us all. In fact, it could help reinforce why it is all so crucial as we realise just how many of us still remain vulnerable. How accurate is the test? The test is licenced by the regulator MHRA and is CE marked. For the specific SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies For the specific SARS-CoV-2 IgM antibodies Relative Sensitivity: >99.9% Relative Sensitivity: 85% Relative Specificity: 98.0% Relative Specificity: 96.0% Accuracy: 98.6% Accuracy: 92.9% The clinical study provides strong evidence of the usability and effectiveness of the test.
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The science behind this particular Covid-19 Antibody test we are using, produced by the Belfast-based Biotechnology Biopanda Reagents, was also featured and explained in the Channel 4 Fact-Check programme https://www.channel4.com/news/ factcheck/factcheck-qa-the-newcoronavirus-blood-tests As with all our clinical and vaccination services, the NHS professionals at the Bristol Travel Clinic will make sure it is delivered to the highest standards and at an affordable price, making it widely accessible to all. We are also running an introductory price offer campaign this month. To book a Test or find out more, please call our freephone number 0800 7723575 or email: info@ bristoltravelclinic.co.uk We are also able to support businesses by offering on-site testing support, so please get in touch today. Appointments are available at Ellacombe Pharmacy in Longwell Green. Do call ahead to book so we can prepare ahead to see you speedily. Stay safe and well, and thanks for all your sacrifices protecting all of all.
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
July, 2020
15
n NEWS FROM OUR MP
Rebuilding the local economy
T
Chris Skidmore writes for
Hanham & Longwell Green Voice
HESE are unprecedented times, but we are gradually moving out of lockdownand as we get on with our lives, it’s vital to start rebuilding our local economy that has been affected by the pandemic. We do not know yet the scale of what we are facing, but it is clear that businesses will need support. The government has provided a number of support schemes for business – with over 2,800 businesses in South Gloucestershire taking advantage of the grants scheme. My office has been ringing local firms making them aware of what support is available - and I will be planning future job fairs to help local people find work, though I am investigating how these might be able to be held safely or virtually online.
For those individuals shielding or who are vulnerable, Southern Brooks charity has done a fantastic job working with South Gloucestershire Council to deliver the necessary support needed. This will need to continue for some time, but I’m pleased that already several thousand local people have benefited directly or indirectly from this support. The National Lottery has also awarded more than £85,000 to community projects in our area, and has recently provided funding for the Kingsmeadow@ MadeForever community centre to help provide additional future support for those affected by the coronavirus - which investment I welcome and look forward to seeing how it helps those in need. Thanks to everyone who responded to the consultation
on Kingswood High Street – I hope that the local feedback will help strengthen the bid for the government’s Future High Streets fund, and I will certainly be raising this at Westminster- the potential for the regeneration of the high street and the Whitfield tabernacle is a fantastic opportunity which must be seized. Finally, some more good news is that work on major improvements to the Wraxall Road roundabout on the ring road is about to begin. This £6million scheme will install extra lanes and traffic lights on what has been one of Kingswood’s most congested accident black spotsand is something I have been campaigning on for years. Once complete I hope that this will help regulate traffic flow better too.
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
16
July, 2020
n PHOTOGRAPHY
HANHAM
Phot
graphic
SOCIETY
“Upon the earth distress of nations; the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth.” Luke 21 v 25 & 26 “There shall be famines and pestilences, and earthquakes in diverse places.” Matthew 24 v 7 These words were spoken by Jesus Christ in answer to the question put to him, “Lord, what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the age?” We believe that these signs are now being fulfilled in world affairs, and herald the return of Jesus Christ to establish God’s kingdom on earth. For free literature concerning this important event, apply to The Secretary The Household of Faith 31 Mayfield Park North, Fishponds, Bristol
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The Original Christian Hope The Second Coming of Jesus Christ
DESPITE going into ‘lockdown’ during March, Hanham Photographic Society’ (HPS) has continued to have regular weekly meetings. We’ve held monthly committee meetings, organised internal photographic competitions, hosted guest speakers, and even attracted new club members, all thanks to the use of modern technology. Here are some of our ‘lockdown’ images. 1 on the bridge Steve Hallam 2 M. Shed in the clouds (during lockdown) Lloyd Pickup 3 Bristol Harbour (during lockdown) towards hotwells Lloyd Pickup.
Supporting men's mental fitness A SUPPORT network for men’s mental health is expanding to cover South Gloucestershire. Talk Club was formed because suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK. It aims to get men to talk more openly about their thoughts, feelings, worries and day-to-day problems in a relaxed, informal and non-judgemental environment. Starting in April last year at the Bristol Beer Factory in Southville, organisers say Talk Club is the fastest-growing men’s mental fitness movement in the UK, with 38 local groups nationally and internationally, as well as a growing online network of over 1,300 men. Membership has grown 30 per cent since the lockdown, as meetups have moved online. To find out more visit www.wetalkclub.com or join the Talk Club South Glos group on Facebook.
If it’s News Email: news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
July, 2020
17
n NEWS
Books help the lonely Beware parking fines OLDER and more vulnerable people have welcomed a book delivery service run from Hanham Library during the coronavirus pandemic. Many have particularly valued the initial phone call, because they had not spoken to anyone for several days. Staff have been able to talk to them and where required refer them to local and council support. The Home Library Service has also handed out key contact information with the books, as many people they support don’t use any digital services. Strict health and safety guidelines are observed. The Home Library Service team at Hanham Library said: “We have been overwhelmed and touched by the number of positive comments we have received from users when we have phoned them regarding the Home Library Service. "Those we have spoken to have been so grateful to have been thought about and have commented at how lost they have felt not being able to visit the library. We are often the only people that they have spoken to that day and seeing the smile on their face when they have received their bag of books is heart-warming. To feel like we are making even a small difference to our users' mental health and wellbeing during this challenging time gives us a sense of purpose and worth.” Home Library Service user Valerie Stanton, from Hanham, said: “Such grateful thanks to the home delivery service at this time when so many of us have always relied on reading as part of our daily lives. Reading brings to life the beauty of fiction that can touch your heart, not to be forgotten. Never feeling alone when reading as so many of us are. Lifting a book, gently turning the page to transport yourself to the imagination of these writers gives a feeling of completeness to oneself, of happiness, contentment and gratitude.”
PARENTS at schools in Hanham and Longwell Green are being asked to observe new measures to stop the spread of Covid-19 and improve air quality. South Gloucestershire Council has approved changes including suspension of parking bays to cut down the number of cars with their engines running outside the school gates. It has also agreed that fines for parking infringements can be be issued immediately in high risk areas close to schools rather than first allowing two minutes’ observation time. More space is being created near schools to encourage parents to walk or cycle rather than use their cars on the school run. Other changes include additional signs to remind people of the two metre rule and bollards outside school gates where space is limited. Among the schools involved are Beacon Rise Primary, Samuel
White’s Infants, Hanham Abbots Juniors, and Longwell Green Primary. Council officers are creating individual plans tailored for each school depending on the size and number of children returning. They are planning to do the same with secondary schools as more students return to class following the lockdown. Cabinet member for transport Councillor Steve Reade, said: “We have been working closely with schools to introduce these essential measures to enable people to safely social distance as our schools begin to reopen. “By mitigating the need for cars to idle outside of schools in this way, we can use the measures to have a positive effect on the environment the and health of our children. It seems sensible that we factor this into future changes rather than adopting more of an enforcement-based approach.”
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hanham&longwellgreenvoice
18
July, 2020
n NEWS
Relief for parents as nurseries open BABIES, toddlers and pre-school children in Hanham returned to early education after the lockdown was lifted for nursery settings at the beginning of June. Mama Bear’s Day Nursery and Pre-school caters for children aged three-months to five-years old, and the team at the Hanham Hall nursery (just off Whittucks Road) prepared for the children’s return, and trained staff in Covid-19 procedures. The returning children adjusted to the new safety measures, and enjoyed educational and fun activities including finding frogs in the garden, lunchtime picnics, imaginative play and learning about the life cycle of sunflowers. Tony Driffield, who co-owns the nursery group with his wife Bev, an early years expert, said: “We have done everything possible to ensure the safety of the children on their return to nursery. “Of course we have been supporting the children of key
Children at Mama Bear's Day Nursery at Hanham Hall are happy to be back learning with their friends workers and vulnerable children throughout the crisis so a lot of measures were already in place but we have been working hard to make the changes required to accommodate more children in our settings. “It has been really tricky to manoeuvre through this crisis and there is a long way to go for all of us yet but our staff have been
phenomenal and so adaptable which has been fantastic. We’d also like to thank our parents for their support and we look forward to welcoming more children back in the months to come.” Children have also expressed their feelings on returning to nursery. Olive, aged four, said: “I like being back at nursery because I get to play with my friends.” Poppy,
also four, said: “I am so happy that my friends are back but the rugs have gone.” Another pre-schooler Jaxon said: “I like playing with my friends again and all the toys.” Mama Bear’s Day Nursery also has nurseries in Soundwell, Speedwell, Crews Hole and Downend. More information on can be found at: www.mamabear. co.uk.
n SPORT
Lottery handout offers a lifeline
Back in action
G.B. BRITTON Bowls Club of Kingswood has been awarded £6,500 of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Community Emergency Fund. The money will go towards helping the club to meet irrecoverable costs during the pandemic. G.B. Britton Bowls Club, which celebrated its centenary last year, was facing an uncertain future as it struggled to meet its financial commitments. Club chairman Peter Coles said: “We are extremely grateful to Sport England for this grant which has proved to be real lifeline for the club when it was in financial trouble. It allowed us to pay our bills at a time when we had no income and without this grant the future of the club was
FRYS Bowling Club has reopened after lockdown and has introduced safety measures. New members are welcome and tuition is provided if required. For more information or to apply for membership, or arrange tuition, please contact Christopher Day, on 01225 872959, email: frysbowlsclub@ gmail.com. You can also visit www. frysbowlsclub.webs.com.
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in jeopardy. The club’s biggest cost is maintaining the green something which is essential if we are going to be ready to start playing when the current restrictions are lifted.” Tim Hollingsworth, Sport England’s chief executive, said: “The £20m Community Emergency fund, made possible by National Lottery players, is part of a multimillion pound package of support we are providing to ease the pressure on a huge number of the organisations who are central to the nation’s health and wellbeing.= We are very proud to be able to provide vital funding to G.B. Britton Bowls Club to help it through these extremely challenging times.”
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BUILDING SERVICES
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
Call Nick on 0117 2872375
CARPENTRY SERVICES
0117 303 9000 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
mail@arjelectrical.co.uk
If it’s News Email: news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
REPAIRS
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
20 ELECTRICAL SERVICES
GARDEN SERVICES
PARK VIEW TURF & GARDEN SERVICES (20 years experience)
Free Quotes Inspection and Testing Landlord Certificates New builds and Extensions Extra Sockets and Lights Fire Alarms, Smoke Detectors
• Quality Turf Supplies • Fencing • Regular Maintenance • Turfing • Grass & Hedge Cutting • Garden Clearance
www.ElderwoodElectrical.com Office - 0117 9322379 Mobile - 07725 058581
For a FREE estimate, call Roger 07799 373287 roger.west@blueyonder.co.uk
ELECTRICAL SERVICES
GARDEN SERVICES
early evenings
01179 520076 for a free estimate 45 years experience
GARDEN SERVICES
D. ATTWELL
LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
NO OUT
44 ABBOTS ROAD, HANHAM, BS1
FIXED
www.daleclements.c www.daleclements.co.uk E
FE ABBOTS BS1 44 ABBOTS ROAD, HANHAM, 3NG ROAD, THANHAM, 0117 3690046 44BS15 L OU ices r CAL p
Mobile: 07970 019830
NO
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Fixe
NO CALL OUT FEE
• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Doors • Skirting • Flooring • Decking • Pvc cladding
Call Matt on 07909 928413 or 01179 864304 for a free quote
www.ramoonelectricalservices.co.uk Email: ramoon@blueyonder.co.uk
E: mjcrawfordcarpenrtykitchen@yahoo.com
W: www.mjcrawfordcarpenrty.co.uk GARDEN SERVICES
OVEN CLEANING
Keynsham Tree Removal & Stump Grinding
• Tree felling • Stump grinding • All tree & hedge work undertaken • Garden waste removal • Good rates & reliable service
Tel: 0117 9117652 Mobile: 07747 131431 (All areas covered)
IRONING SERVICES
Family business located in Saltford
Tiler • Mason • Painter OVEN CLEANING Extractors
Hobs
Free quotation & Fully Insured Other Cleaning Services Available
Tel: 01225 769191 Mob: 07793 213232
The domesticHighoven and Classic &professional Natural stone tiles Quality Finish Specialising incarpet Italian showerscleaning serviceFree Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry
PAINTING DECORATING
07792868134 *Free Collection & delivery service *24 hour turn around Guaranteed Call or text for a full price list
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 908 2121 Or 07715 770448.
1st Stop CLEANING SERVICES
Interior & façade painting
Annmarie’s ironing service
NO OU
FIXED
www.daleclements.c
Your local carpenter who carries out all types of carpentry work .
0117 3690000 07940 247514
Then ring Alistair Tweedale
Mobile: 07970 019830
24 hour Locksmith Service (all types NO of CAdoors) LL Locks, Handles and Hinges Repaired OUT FEE FIXED PRICES Misted and Broken Glass Replaced Realign Dropped Doors and Windows
44 ABBOTS ROAD, HANHAM, BS15 3NG
Rewires Consumer Units Extra Points Electrical Installation Condition Reports Fault Finding Call Bob for free advice and estimates
Are you in need of a new fence
0117 3690046 & DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS Mobile: 07970 019830 0117 3690046 Dale 0117Clements 3690046 Mobile: 07970 019830
M JJ CRAWFORD M CRAWFORD CARPENTRY CARPENTRY & & KITCHEN KITCHEN FITTING SERVICES FITTING LTD
Local friendly service with over 30 yrs experience
Blown Down?
24 hour Locksmith Service (all types o Locks, Handles and Hinges Repaired Misted and Broken Glass Replaced Realign Dropped Doors and Windows
www.daleclements.co.uk
Domestic - Commercial - Industrial Installation - Testing - Maintenance
FENCING Has your fence
July, 2020
Clements LOCKSMITH 24 hour Locksmith Service (all types o 24DaleHOUR Dale Clements Locks,ofHandles 24LOCKSMITH hour Locksmith Service (all types doors) and Hinges Repaired &Locks,DOUBLE GLAZING Misted and Broken Glass Replaced Handles and Hinges Repaired Realign Dropped Doors and Windows Misted and Broken Glass Replaced 24 HOUR LOCKSMITH REPAIRS Realign Dropped Doors and Windows
FIXED PRICES KITCHEN SPECIALISTS
RElectrical A Moon Services
FENCING SERVICES
24 HOUR LOC & DOUBLE GL Dale Clements REPAIRS
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator
Builder & Interior Decorator
17 Years Experience Tiling Interior & Exterior Masonry E: dacriscobuilder3@gmail.com Interior & Facade T: 0117 401 8568 / 07557 335 956 PaintingDacrisco Builder No Job Too Small Free Quote 17 Years Experience
T: 0117 431 2726 / 07557 335 956 E: dacriscobuilder9@gmail.com
Email: sales@hanhamandlongwellgreen voice.co.uk
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
July, 2020 PLUMBING SERVICES
Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT
0117
957 5092
PLUMBING SERVICES
PLUMBING SERVICES
Give your toes a treat
Services, Breakdowns and Installations Call Jane: 07944 449 161
Email: hlpandhsolutions@gmail.com Facebook: hlheating Instagram: hlheating
PLUMBING SERVICES
P A Flook Plumbing & Heating
Toenail cutting and foot care in the comfort of your own home. Affordable, professional.
Free foot massage!
Call 07523299147 or visit www.neatfeet.net TREE SURGERY
All aspects of Tree Surgery & Hedge Maintenance
From a tap to replacement radiators to full bathroom installs
• Stump Grinding • Qualified & Fully Insured • Free Quotations & Advice Contact: Andy Maule (RFS Cert.Arb)
Mobile: 07908 267921
0117 9864273/07748118266
paulalan@hotmail.co.uk
TAXIS
www.pinnacletreeservices.co.uk WASTE DISPOSAL
PK Taxi
8 Passengers and luggage capacity Luxury people carrier for 1-8 passengers Fixed prices available
* TAPS, WASHERS * BALL VALVES * LEAKS, WASTES * OVERFLOWS, DRIPS * LEAD PIPES * TOILETS, FLUSHES
TOE NAIL CUTTING
Bristol Based Gas Engineer
• No job too small • No VAT • City & Guilds Qualified • 35 yrs experience • Fully insured
PLUMBING SERVICES
21
Based in Longwell Green
07735 216258 TELEPHONE ENGINEER
AMG SolutionS • Telephone Sockets Relocated • Additional Telephone Points • Telephone Systems • Data/Computer Cabling • WiFi Solutions and Access Points • Projector and Flat Panel TV Installation • CCTV • Fault Finding
Tel : 0117 3620313 Website : www.amg-solutions.co.uk
RUBBISH CLEARED
Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074
We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue
Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends
WASTE DISPOSAL
Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance
House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, Garden, Office Clearance -- Plus other House, Garden, Office Clearance Plus all other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste removal On cheaper than aa skip wastewaste removal -Average On average cheaper than than skipa skip
07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 £89 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 Half Half £139 Half Load Load Load £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 £179 3/4 Load Load £179£179 Full Load Full £199 Full Load Load £199£199
www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk
If it’s News Email: news@hanhamandlongwellgreenvoice.co.uk
If you are being controlled or physically, sexually, economically or emotionally abused by a partner, ex-partner or family member this is domestic abuse. You are allowed to leave your home and Next Link can help you with support and accommodation. Police response and support services remain available.
Call 999 if in immediate danger. If you can’t speak and are calling from a mobile, listen to the operator and, when prompted, dial 55 to connect to the police, who will help.
For local specialist support call Next Link on 0800 4700 280 or access their Live Chat facility via their website at www.nextlinkhousing.co.uk
SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SPECIAL EDITION
Hidden heroes MANY heroes have emerged during Covid-19. Here we feature just a few of you who are helping make South Gloucestershire such a caring place to live in: Christine is a member of the council’s libraries staff team but she’s switched to distributing emergency food parcels rather than books. The food parcels are for local people who need to stay at home because they’re at greatest risk from the virus. The Pucklechurch & Shortwood Good Neighbours’ Scheme is a voluntary group that has been working hard to support local people by completing small tasks like shopping. They have started a food bank in the village. Paige is the founder of Mamas Bristol CIC, a support
3
Community partnerships
Pucklechurch Good Neighbours’ Scheme in a photograph taken before Covid-19 Paige
network for parents across South Gloucestershire and Bristol. When the pandemic started, all of the group’s normal activities and events had to stop. But since the end of March, the small team at Mamas Bristol CIC have distributed
Julie Close, Southern Brooks’ Chief Executive, describes how they are responding to Covid-19: “We quickly refocused our resources to respond to Covid-19. Working directly with the community, the council and the Clinical Commissioning Group, we’re providing practical support to people identified as vulnerable or high risk. Every day, we provide information and emotional support, arrange food parcel deliveries, prescription collections and referrals to Mutual Aid Groups and other local services. Projects include supporting those most severely isolated by lockdown measures, perhaps as a result of digital exclusion or shielding requirements. From the outset, the priority has been to support and keep people safe. For example, as the guidance around shielding different groups within of our community changes we have adapted our offering to meet this. Inevitably, services will change as volunteers return to work and a daily routine as lockdown eases but the impact of Covid-19 will be felt for weeks and months to come, if not longer. Our existing services will continue for as long as required, but new programmes are in development to respond to longer term needs. The best support people can give is to follow social distancing and personal hygiene rules and guidance.”
approximately 3,500 hot meals to vulnerable people, families in need and keyworkers needing a helping hand. The organisation has also made available any leftover food and ingredients to those who have struggled to shop during lockdown.
THE superb response from volunteers and voluntary groups across the district during the Covid-19 crisis is heartening and inspiring. The council is working in partnership with these groups which is helping it to respond effectively to those who need the most support, and to those who help. Southern Brooks is an example of the excellent partnership working taking place. A lead voluntary sector partner, it is playing a key role, liaising between the council and the Mutual Aid Groups and volunteers in the district. Southern Brooks keeps in weekly contact with the groups. Because it knows and understands what they offer, it is able to refer people for support. The council’s community aid web pages lists the support available.
Spotlight on volunteering Charlotte Lester, 35, from Patchway, volunteers for two hours a week with a FareShare Project run by Southern Brooks from the Brooks Café at the Coniston Community Centre. FareShare redistributes surplus food to charities to turn into meals. Charlotte puts together food parcels that are then delivered to vulnerable people in the district. She says: “I started volunteering with the project in April as I want to help people and be useful. I enjoy it – I used to work away from home and didn’t really know my area but, because of volunteering, I feel much more connected to my community. I’ve met loads of great people, always socially distancing of course! I’d encourage other people to give it a go.” If you've been inspired by how communities have pulled together during this crisis and want to find out how to volunteer, or need help yourself, call Southern Brooks on 0333 5774666 or visit https://southernbrooks.org.uk/ or call CVS South Gloucestershire 01454 865205 or visit https://www.cvs-sg.org.uk/ volunteer-centres/.
How to get help and support If you’re not online, call the South Gloucestershire Council freephone helpline 0800 953 7778. We can also send printed weekly updates out to you. Or if you’re online, email your questions to CustomerCare@southglos.gov.uk Coronavirus help and information hub www.southglos.gov.uk/coronavirus For the latest news & updates follow us on:
Facebook www.facebook.com/sgloscouncil Twitter @sgloscouncil To contact South Gloucestershire Council, go to www.southglos.gov.uk/contact or call 01454 868009 Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service at www.111.nhs.uk/covid-19 See our website for: • updates on council services • sign up to our weekly email updates • financial support for residents and businesses • South Glos Community aid hub – where you can get help from local voluntary groups • a wide range of other support services and information such as: • free educational resources • mental health tips and advice and much more. Supporting people who aren’t online Richard* received the recent letter from the council about support for people who are shielding from coronavirus. He phoned us to find out what it’s all about. He didn’t remember receiving an earlier letter from the NHS advising him to shield and apply for support. He wouldn’t have known how to apply online. The council offered to apply on his behalf and he was surprised and grateful for the help. He is now receiving his free food *Name changed and stock image used for confidentiality parcel from the government every week.
www.southglos.gov.uk