On their marks...
Tragic family's mission to help
THE parents of a young man who was killed in a crash on the Avon Ring Road are working to help other families in their position.
Tyler Carley, who was 20 and grew up in Kingswood, died in December when the lorry he was a passenger in overturned on the A4174.
His family have set up a foundation in his
memory, to help charities that offer help to bereaved relatives, after finding it hard to find support following his death.
In their first major fundraising event, a team of runners is coming together to race in Tyler's memory at this month's Great Bristol Run. Turn to Page 3
Railway marks 50 golden years
Metro Mayor Dan Norris helped Avon Valley Railway in Bitton celebrate its 50th anniversary.
PAGE 9
Potholes 'are an embarrassment'
South Glos Council officials admit that tackling potholes in the district is a losing battle.
PAGE 7
School show wows audience
Hanham Woods Academy staged a spectaclar production of Legally Blonde JR.
PAGE 11
Call for action on birth centre
MPs are urging action to enable Cossham Hospital's birth centre to reopen after 18 months..
PAGE 13
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n NEWS Dimming lights lessens cuts to libraries
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COUNCIL leaders have defended cutting library hours to save £273,000 from South Gloucestershire’s budget.
Cadbury Heath, Hanham and Kingswood libraries are among eight which will be staffed for half a day less than before, while larger libraries will close earlier each day. The aim is to make staffed opening hours consistent, at 10am to 5pm, plus three hours on Saturdays.
Cabinet member for communities Sean Rhodes (Lab, Kingswood) told a council meeting on April 15 that original proposals were to cut library spending by £473,000, but a £200,000 annual saving from dimming street lights meant that less needed to be taken from the library budget.
Lights will be dimmed to a quarter of their normal brightness from 11pm to 6am each night to cut electricity costs.
Cllr Rhodes said the budget for books would go down by only half of the £50,000 initially planned and that all branches would have longer staffed hours than first anticipated.
But Conservative Frenchay & Downend ward councillor Liz Brennan criticised the Lib Dem/Labour administration for cutting library services in "priority neighbourhoods" with higher levels of deprivation.
Cllr Rhodes said: “We have to balance the issue around footfall in different neighbourhoods, and actually the footfall for libraries is higher elsewhere than in priority neighbourhoods.
“Disproportionately cutting hours at libraries with big footfall doesn’t necessarily make full sense.”
Trade union Unison had called the original cuts – which included cutting a full day of opening at Cadbury Heath, Patchway and Winterbourne libraries - “discriminatory”. It claimed they would leave the council unable to meet its legal duty to provide a “comprehensive and efficient” library service.
Cllr Rhodes said council officers had been in regular contact with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport to the authority complied with its legal responsibilities.
He said: "The crucial thing to acknowledge is that with the initial proposal, the potential impact of these changes was far greater, and officers have worked really hard to come up with a solution with us to mitigate this.
“There was clear opposition from the public consultation process to the budget reduction for buying books, so we’ve found mitigations in other areas."
Cllr Rhodes said the Open Access scheme, which enables residents to use libraries when they are not staffed, worked well but a quarter of people responding to the budget consultation were not aware of it.
Changes to library opening hours will come into effect later this year, following consultation with staff.
The plan to dim street lights received broad public support – 69% – during consultations, and trials over the winter led to only one complaint, that lights should be turned down further.
However one in 10 of the 783 respondents said the change would make them feel more vulnerable.
Cabinet member for climate and nature emergency Louise Harris (Lib Dem, Dodington) said dimming street lights was good for wildlife and people.
She said: “Sleep disorders, depression, diabetes, heart disease and indeed cancer are linked to artificial light at night. It affects our diurnal and nocturnal activities.”
It will take engineers two years to reprogramme all 31,500 street lamps individually to dim between 11pm and 6am.
By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting ServiceFrom Page 1
Tyler's dad Mark said he, Tyler's mum Gemma and siblings Kylan, Skye and Ronni-Irene, had founded The Road Forward – Tyler Carley Foundation to support road accident victims' families in the light of their own experience.
He said that in the immediate aftermath of Tyler's death: "We literally had no support.
"The police give you a green book and send you on your way. You come home and get an email about six hours later from your police liaison officer, and that's it. There was nothing at all for Tyler's sisters, brother, aunts and uncles."
The family eventually found two charities which offered help.
The first, SCARD (Support & Care After Road Death & Injury), provides a phone helpline, free counselling, legal and practical support for families affected by road deaths and serious injuries.
The second, 2Wish, supports the families of children and young people who have passed away, offering counselling, home visits and 'memory boxes'.
After supporting SCARD with
Family's foundation will keep Tyler's memory alive
donations from mourners at Tyler's funeral, the family started considering a more permanent way of honouring his memory.
Mark said they decided to go ahead and set up The Road Forward after people who knew Tyler contacted them offering to run the 10k at the Great Bristol Run in his memory. Mark said every penny raised would go towards charities supporting other families in a similar position, and to raise awareness of their work.
Eventually he hopes that the foundation will be able to offer help direct to local bereaved families struggling with funeral and burial costs, or living expenses after having to take time off work.
Mark, who and grew up in Kingswood, also hopes to organise sessions to teach CPR at Kingswood Boxing Club, where he is a volunteer coach, after
learning that passers-by tried to revive Tyler at the scene of the crash that claimed his life.
Mark said: "It's surprising the number of people who don't know any first aid."
Tyler had a big group of friends from Kingswood, Mangotsfield and Thornbury, and from playing football for Deerswood, Longwell Green and
Bristol Rovers' development squad. He was a big Rovers fan, following the club home and away.
More details on The Road Forward can be found at the charity's Facebook and Twitter accounts, or by emailing info@ tylercarley.org. A website is also being set up at tylercarley.org. More 10k stories: Page 4
n NEWS
D-Day anniversary inspires couple's 10K running garb
ROYAL British Legion supporters George and Dawn Harrill are due to run the Bristol 10K in distinctive fancy dress.
For the event on May 19, Dawn will be dressed as a giant Remembrance poppy and George will complete the course wearing the uniform of a Second World War army medic. Dawn is the Poppy Appeal organiser for the Bitton and Oldland branch of the Royal British Legion and George is an army officer with over 40 years’ military service, mostly with the Royal Army Medical Corps, so raising funds for veterans and their families while remembering the sacrifices of those who have gone before is important to them.
The last time George and Dawn did a fundraiser like this was at the 2018 Bristol half a marathon, when they went round the course wearing First World War army uniforms and carrying a military stretcher. The 2018 event was the 100th anniversary of the end of the Great War, crowd support was amazing and they raised well over £250 on the way round plus other donations that followed.
Supporters at the Bristol 10K will be able to drop coins into a collecting bucket or scan an official Royal British Legion QR
Run 'shows school's family ethos'
STAFF, governors and parents from Christ Church Hanham CE VC Primary will once again pull on their running gear to take part in the Bristol 10K.
Following the success of last year, members of the school community are in training to pound the streets of Bristol in May.
The aim is to ‘run 10km to raise 2k’. Last year’s inaugural Team CCH run raised a substantial amount that has been used to help create a new Forest School within the school grounds. This year, Team CCH are running to raise money to further develop the playground and outdoor space. The plans include buying new social shelters and reading pods where pupils can enjoy break times together and further develop their love of reading .
code carried by Dawn and George to make a donation.
This year’s costumes mark the 80th anniversary of D-day and the many other military campaigns of 1944, which eventually brought an end to the Second World War.
Dawn’s father Bob Riglar was a light infantry RSM who served in Malaya, Borneo and Northern Ireland, while her grandfather Fred was a war veteran who had spent a lifetime in uniform from 1918 to 1945.
George’s grandfathers all served during the war, Bert Gibbard was a Corporal gunner in the Royal Marines wounded at Crete who eventually went ashore during the Scheldt estuary landings in Holland, while Douglas Thompson was a King’s Shropshire Light Infantry soldier captured in Italy, who later successfully escaped from his prison camp in Germany. George’s step grandfather Bill Thomas was a Petty Officer in the Royal Navy on anti-submarine patrols in the North Atlantic.
George is an officer with 243 Multi-role Medical Regiment based at Keynsham. The unit recruits the skills of NHS medical staff into this medical regiment of the Army Reserves, where on a part-time basis they
form an essential part of the UK’s defence.
George said: ‘We should all be proud of this country and our history of standing up against oppression, something which we still do, with some very committed and professional full time and reserve personnel. Dawn and I are looking forward to a worthwhile fun day on May 19th.”
To sponsor the pair, go to https://tinyurl. com/2ymramwb
The fundraising is organised by the Friends of Christ Church Hanham.
Headteacher Neil McKellarTurner said: “The Bristol 10K is a fantastic example of the way the school promotes an inclusive, family ethos. Last year’s event was a huge success; seeing so many members of our school family involved and coming together to take on a new
challenge was such a positive experience. Given the pressure on school budgets, without the hard work of our Friends of Christ Church we simply would not be able to provide the resources or enrichment that we know is so important in ensuring that all children receive a broad and full education.”
To support Team CCH, go to https://tinyurl.com/bdd9z7k9
For Ollie
FIREFIGHTERS from Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) will run the Bristol 10k in memory of firefighter Ollie Hatfield who lost his life to cancer in 2023.
Some plan to run in full fire kit, which weighs 25 kg, to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and The Fire Fighters Charity.
The team said: “We’re looking forward to taking on this challenge in memory of our great friend and colleague.
To support them, go to https://tinyurl.com/yc4t47mm
Late chance ...
CITIZENS Advice South Gloucestershire, which runs advice sessions in Cadbury Heath, is aiming to raise £4,000 from the Bristol 10K.
Money raised by its volunteer runners will support the service, which has just celebrated its 50th anniversary. The charity helped a record 6,590 South Gloucestershire people in 2023. It is seeking five runners for its team. Email katie.collier@ southgloscab.org.uk to join.
Why tackling potholes is 'a losing battle'
THE number of potholes in South Gloucestershire has quadrupled in a year, leaving “embarrassed” council chiefs to admit they are fighting a losing battle and merely “papering over the cracks”.
Roads are in a dire state of repair but the local authority cannot afford to carry out regular maintenance to protect surfaces from damage caused by wetter winters, with country lanes the worst affected, councillors heard.
South Gloucestershire Council scrutiny commission was told the number of potholes in the district rocketed from 3,189 in April to September 2022 to 12,695 over the same period last year.
While repairs have also shot up, from 4,980 to 11,606, the highways team is struggling to keep pace.
Head of StreetCare Mark King told the meeting: “We have a declining asset and unfortunately the budgets do not match the amount we need to keep a level playing field with our highway assets.
“We did spend the money on our country lanes as much as possible but they are in such a poor state that we are papering over the cracks, if the truth be told.
“Other councils are in exactly the same
situation. We continue to do what we can and try to mitigate the impacts as much as possible and address those urgent potholes and defects. I’m kind of embarrassed to say we have got a network that is particularly bad off the main roads, and our rural network is the worst part.
“It’s a combination of other things, of those wetter winters – water is getting into the surface and breaking it up, and we’re not doing the basic maintenance that we have done in the past.”
Mr King, at his last committee meeting before retirement, said that when he started in the service, the council used to carry out many miles of regular surface dressing which would seal it and stop water getting in, which caused potholes. He told members that vehicles, including tractors, were now larger and heavier and tore up verges.
Mr King said: “We try to get as much water off the network as possible, we do a lot of drainage work, there is a lot of investment in that. But when the fields are saturated and there is nowhere for that water to go, what we can do is limited.”
Cabinet member for planning, regeneration and infrastructure Cllr Chris Willmore (Lib Dem, Yate North) said: “We
His Majesty King Charles III (b.1948) – Unfinished watercolour study of Lochnagar, which featured in the 1993 production of 'The Legend of Lochnagar’ Sold for £17,000
find it really frustrating but it’s heartbreaking for professional officers who have given their career to try to do things like giving us a decent and safe network to get around in, to have to manage on the sort of money they’re getting from government funding now.”
She said the previous Conservative administration borrowed £1million to fund repairs over the previous three years but not only was that money gone, the authority was now having to pay it back.
“So the team is going to have an even tighter job and the roads are going to suffer as a result,” Cllr Willmore said.
A report to the meeting said: “It should be noted that defects are a symptom of longterm under investment of capital in the local highway network. Budgets over time have been maintained, however network length has increased, and the backlog of work has also increased, meaning the money must go further and high inflation has also not helped.
"Funding limitations have also meant that works are not always carried out at the optimum time, making maintenance more expensive.”
By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service- Lady's
Datejust 18ct gold wristwatch
n NEWS FROM OUR MP
Your voice at Westminster
I'M now two months into being your new MP for Kingswood.
I have had a steady stream of emails coming into my inbox and am enjoying getting out and about, meeting community groups and doing visits around the constituency.
In Westminster there was a lot of speculation that we might have a General Election in May. In the end we didn’t hear anything from the Prime Minister, so now October or November looks like the most likely time. Some say June – either way, everyone is on stand-by.
Since my last column, I have delivered my maiden speech to Parliament.
From the day you arrive at Parliament people ask about your maiden speech and there’s a lot of pressure.
It’s the first time your new colleagues hear you speak in the
chamber, and I wanted to make a good impression and represent Kingswood well.
I came in early to practice, because I was worried my voice wouldn’t be loud enough, but in the end, it was all fine and the microphones pick-up everything anyway.
As is traditional in a maiden speech, I spoke positively about the previous MP, gave a little history about Kingswood, including some quirky facts – did you know that the old Douglas motorbike factory in Kingswood was, at one time, the largest motorbike factory in the world?
For the substance of the speech, I spoke about the issues raised on the doorstep that politicians need to address.
I argued that the social media bubble that’s become so dominant doesn’t represent mainstream Britain. People told
me they want politicians to sort out access to dentists, the NHS, crime, cost of living, bus cuts, school funding, apprenticeship places, the decline of the high street, immigration and defence spending.
I’ve been enjoying my community visits: I love meeting people, and welcome any invitations to damien.egan.mp@ parliament.uk.
Last week I went out with our local police to understand their challenges – it was a real eye opener and it's a tough job. Today, we have fewer police but more bureaucracy, which means more time behind desks and less police on the street. Levels of violence are higher, particularly with children, and highly organised criminal gangs are taking full advantage of the situation, ruining lives long the way. It’s frightening how quickly
Damien Egan
MP for Kingswood writes for the Voice
things have turned. On the plus side, a lot of the answers for how to improve come from our rank-and-file officers. I left the visit with renewed respect and admiration for our local officers, but whoever forms the next government needs to listen and support the police, so they can do their job.
New tenants sought for civic centre
SOUTH Gloucestershire Council says it is seeking new tenants for Kingswood Civic Centre following the announcement that health provider Sirona is to move out.
The centre, which was built in the 1970s and refurbished at a cost of £6 million in 2011, was at risk of closure in 2016 after more than 200 office staff were moved to the council’s new headquarters in Badminton Road, Yate.
It was saved after Sirona Care and Health took up a long-term tenancy. But now Sirona is moving its base to Badminton Road too. Since the pandemic, many staff at both organisations work flexibly, resulting in a reduced need for office space.
But a council spokesperson told the Voice this did not mean that the civic centre, which houses the council chamber, a One Stop Shop and the library, would be sold.
“Sirona moving into the Badminton Road office will help to meet the council’s target of £500,000 in income from making best use of our estate,” the spokesperson said.
“In recent years the council has successfully introduced more flexible ways of working for its staff, which means that space can be used in different ways to support the delivery of important services. This has in turn released office space and created the opportunity to generate income through leasing out parts of the building.
“We are in negotiations with another potential tenant to lease office space at Badminton Road and are also seeking tenants for the space at the Kingswood Civic Centre that will be available once Sirona relocate from there.
“Aligned to the new Council Plan, the estates strategy is being reviewed and this will include the vacated space at Kingswood Civic Centre.”
Announcing the plans, Sirona and the council said: “Both organisations, which already work closely together, look forward to further strengthening their working relationship. By moving some of its staff to Yate, Sirona will benefit from the use of
modern office space and facilities, while the council will receive rent, which will help balance the budget at a time when the cost of delivering services continues to increase.”
Sirona is a Community Interest Company that provides community NHS services in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. A spokesperson told the Voice that the growth of the organisation meant it needed a bigger organisational headquarters.
Sirona chief executive Sue Porto said: “Moving to Badminton Road is a key step in ensuring our organisation is optimised for the post-pandemic world where hybrid working still requires locations for our staff to meet and collaborate in the same space.
“This move will also help grow our already strong partnership working with South Gloucestershire Council.”
The move is likely to happen towards the end of the year, once IT and other services are in place for Sirona at Badminton Road.
ELIGIBLE people are being invited to have a top-up Covid-19 vaccination this spring. The NHS is offering Covid-19 vaccines to people who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus –including those aged 75 and over (by 30 June 2024), residents of care homes for older adults, and those aged 6 months and over with a weakened immune system.
Eligible people can make an appointment at a GP vaccination clinic when invited. People can also book an appointment at a GP clinic, a local pharmacy or at a community vaccination clinic in the following simple ways:
• Download the NHS App and make an appointment
• Visit www.nhs.uk/get-vaccine to use the online National Booking Service
• Call 119 for free if you can’t get online (translators are available)
The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) NHS area is also offering walk-in vaccinations in community clinics. For details and more information about
Top up Covid-19 vaccination on offer for high risk people
Dr Dougal Darvillthe spring campaign, visit www. grabajab.net.
Vaccinations for people living in the community began on 22
April 2024 and local GPs have also started visiting adult care homes. Spring vaccinations will be available until 30 June 2024.
Local GP Dr Dougal Darvill said: “Protection against Covid-19, either from catching the virus or from a previous vaccination, can fade over time and the virus can change, so if you are at higher risk of severe illness it is important that you top up your protection.
“For some, particularly older people and those with a weakened immune system, Covid-19 can still be very dangerous and even lifethreatening. If you or your child are entitled to a spring top up vaccination, I strongly encourage you to take up the offer. It’s quick and easy to recharge your immunity and will give you the protection you need for the
months ahead.
“Covid-19 vaccines provide protection against the virus and help reduce the risk of serious illness. The vaccine has saved countless lives, prevented thousands from needing to go to hospital and helped us to live with the virus without fear or restrictions. For local vaccination information, visit www.grabajab. net.”
Those invited should make sure their appointment takes place at least three months since their last dose.
Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can check online. Alternatively, they can self-declare via the National Booking Service and then speak to a clinician on site.
50 years of Avon Valley Railway
AVON Valley Railway marked its 50th anniversary with celebration events at Bitton Station.
The first train rides on the heritage railway, on just 100 yards of relaid track, took place in April 1974. Since then, the hard work of volunteers and supporters has led to the development of a tourist attraction visited by up to 80,000 people a year.
There are now three miles of track, and locomotives and carriages have been returned to their former glory – as has the original Victorian railway station building. Steam and diesel train rides operate throughout the year,.
The Avon Valley branch line opened in 1869 and was closed in the Beeching cuts in the late 1960s.
West of England Mayor Dan Norris opened the celebration weekend by unveiling a plaque.
He said: “Avon Valley Railway is a Bitton gem that for the last 50 years has been loved by people of all ages in the West of England.
“I am chuffed to be able to mark this special anniversary, and celebrate an important part of a lot of people’s identities”
Mark Simmons, AVR’s general manager, said: "We are really pleased to be welcoming
Sandie steps down
SOUTH Gloucestershire councillor Sandie Davis has stepped down from her role.
Cllr Davis had represented New Cheltenham ward, which includes the Siston Hill estate near Mangotsfield, since 2019.
A foster carer, Cllr Davis is also a governor at Soundwell Academy and Warmley Park School, and a trustee of charity Incredible Kids, which runs a play centre for children with additional needs and disabilities.
At the council elections in May last year she was re-elected to represent the two-seat council ward, increasing her margin of victory from 45 to 243 votes over the third-placed Conservative candidate.
Cllr Davis’s resignation led to a by-election in the ward, which was taking place on May 2 – the only election in South Gloucestershire aside from the poll for the Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner.
Dan Norris back to the railway to help mark this major milestone in the history of the Avon Valley Railway.
"It is testament to our volunteers back in 1974 that they had the vision to preserve Bristol & Bath’s railway heritage which we have built on since then to create such a wonderful and unique attraction."
Family fun in our area: Page 15
Popular toddler group needs a leader Christ Church, Hanham is looking to employ an enthusiastic, creative & friendly
to develop and grow a popular faith-based toddler group. Can you organise and enable fun filled stay & play sessions on a Tuesday morning, term-time only?
For details email Jenny Cresswell, Team Administrator at ta.hanhamandkingswood@gmail.com or visit our Facebook Page @ChristChurchHanham.
For an informal chat telephone Sharon on 0117 9678195
Closing date 20 May 2024. Interviews will be held on 3 June 2024.
We're offering spring Covid jabs - and treatment for infected insect bites
AS I write, it is bright and dry (in the UK); spring has arrived. We are proud to once again step forward to protect our community.
Kellaway Pharmacy now offers a Walkin offer for the NHS Spring Covid booster vaccine.
Anyone aged 75 or older with a weak immune system can simply walk in for a jab or book an appointment using the NHS website or NHS App or call 119 using our postcode to search BS3 1BN.
Why another Covid-19 jab? Covid-19 is still a very dangerous and even life-threatening disease for some. With Covid-19 still circulating, those at the highest risk eligible for the spring vaccine must get their jab to help top up their immunity.
As we all know, vaccines work to lower risk, but protection fades, so top-up jabs are offered for those deemed most at risk.
The NHS will send texts, emails, app messages or letters to those eligible - but you
do not need to wait for the invitation to book or come in.
This is how the NHS puts it : "We are still seeing Covid-19 causing hospitalisations and severe illness, particularly among older people and those with weakened immune systems.
"And the vaccine provides the best protection - so don't put it off.
"If you're eligible, book your appointment as soon as the NHS invites you."
As nature awakens during spring, we see many more people getting insect bites and stings. These are usually not serious and get better in a few days, but sometimes, they become infected or cause serious allergic reactions.
Did you know you can now access NHSfunded treatment for infected insect bites at Ellacombe Pharmacy, saving you time and need to wait for a GP appointment? Signs of infection from a bite or sting include pus in or around the bite, swollen glands,
SORE THROAT
& above)
(adults and children aged 5 years & above)
SHINGLES
(adults aged 18 years & above)
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
(women, aged 16 to 64 years)
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS
(children aged 30 days to 2 years)
IMPETIGO
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
increased pain, running a temperature, swelling and redness in and around the bite. Some useful NHS bite and sting prevention tips:
• Be calm and move away slowly if you encounter wasps, hornets, or bees—do not wave your arms around or swat at them.
• Wear shoes and cover exposed skin if outside at sunrise or sunset,
• Apply insect repellent and avoid strong perfumes that can attract insects.
• Never disturb insect nests and keep food and drink covered when eating or drinking outside
So this spring, we will continue working hard to look after our community, from providing you with your top-up Covid-19 jab to treating a wide range of conditions, saving you trips to the GP ortravel vaccinations for your foreign trips.
Need us? Just call Ellacombe Pharmacy: 0117 9322293
n SHOWTIME
School's production dazzles audiences
TALENTED students at Hanham Woods Academy had their audiences thinking pink with their vibrant production of the Broadway musical Legally Blonde JR.
Packed full of infectious energy, this fun and upbeat musical follows the adventures of a sorority girl named Elle Woods (played by Bella Worgan of Year 10 and Tallulah Thomas from Year 8) – a Gemini with a double Capricorn moon – who tries to win her ex-boyfriend back by earning a Harvard law degree.
Delta Nu sorority president Elle seems to have it all: good looks, a relationship with the ‘campus catch’, and great taste in clothes. However, her life is turned upside-down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her in an attempt to start getting ‘serious’ about his future and attend Harvard Law.
Determined to win him back, it takes Elle a lot of hard work and plenty of charm to earn her own place at Harvard so she can prove to Warner that she’s serious enough for him. Once at school, she is challenged by her peers, professors, and her ex, but with the help of some new friends, Elle sets out to realise her potential and prove herself to the world.
Students began rehearsing in September last year in readiness for a total of five shows, which included three matinees and two evening performances, each of which played out to 160-strong capacity audiences.
This production featured a creative cast of three staff and 59 students, plus front and backstage students.
Proceeds from ticket sales were ploughed back into the Performing Arts department to
help produce further shows.
In a gesture of community engagement, pupils from Hanham Abbots Primary School and Christchurch Primary were invited to watch the show and the feedback was amazing from both primaries.
Steve O’Callaghan, Hanham Woods principal, said: “Each year the productions get better and better, and this year was no exception. My congratulations go to everyone involved!”
This production was directed by Caitlin Simmonds, assisted by Poppy Goold and Ella Reed. The musical director was Aniele Filain, assisted by vocal coach Evie Selby, while the show was choreographed by Lydia Dyson and Lily Hawthorne. Nicola Hurrell filled the role of production manager.
Stunning! Students turn on the style
A cast and crew of more than 70 students presented the musical comedy Hairspray at John Cabot Academy. The show, performed over three nights to packed houses, with an additional matinee performance for pupils at local primary schools, boasted great numbers and electrifying dance routines.
The music was played by an exceptional 10-piece live band featuring students from Years 9-11.
Charlotte Grierson, the school’s curriculum leader for performing arts, said: “It has been a pleasure working with the students and staff. Their commitment and dedication beyond their normal school day is fantastic. "
MPs urge government action to tackle crisis that's keeping birth centre shut
KINGSWOOD'S MP has called on the government to take action to reopen the maternity centre at Cossham Hospital, which has been closed for 18 months.
Damien Egan has written to Health Secretary Victoria Atkins calling on her to provide "certainty" on when the Cossham Birth Centre will reopen its doors to expectant mothers – and to take action on the staffing crisis in NHS midwifery which is keeping it closed.
The midwife-led centre at the hospital in Lodge Road was set up to provide a "home from home environment with birthing pools, aromatherapy, massage and a focus on active birth".
North Bristol NHS Trust, which runs the centre, announced in October 2022 that it was "temporarily suspending" services, citing "workforce challenges due to sickness and vacancies".
Last summer the trust said the suspension would remain in place until the spring of this year, but it was "committed to providing maternity care from the site".
Since the start of this year, the Voice has been asking the trust whether it has been able to set a date for reopening the centre, but it has been unable to confirm one.
The suspension follows
previous closures between October 2018 and 2019, and December 2021 to January 2022.
Mr Egan and neighbouring MP Kerry McCarthy, whose Bristol East constituency includes the hospital site, have sent a joint letter to the Health Secretary.
They said: "Unfortunately we have been told the unit is not in a position to reopen, as the trust is still facing difficulties with midwife recruitment and retention."
The MPs say the issue has been raised repeatedly with Ms Atkins and her predecessors.
They said: "Since the
refurbished birth centre reopened 11 years ago, it has been forced to close its doors for over two and a half years due to workforce challenges. It is not right that following a multimillion refurbishment, the centre has been forced to close its doors for more than a quarter of the time since.
"Expectant parents are being forced to travel many miles further to the nearest birth centre and would like certainty when Cossham Birth Centre might re-open."
The MPs said the high turnover and shortage of midwives was "putting staff,
mothers and babies at risk", adding: "As Secretary of State will you do everything you can to address the workforce challenges within maternity services in the NHS?
"We would also be grateful if you could provide any certainty of when the Birth Centre might expect to re-open its doors, so that it can once again serve the people of Bristol and South Gloucestershire."
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We are aiming to increase the number of nursing and midwifery training places to around 58,000 by 2031/32 through the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, which is backed by over £2.4 billion in government funding.
"We have invested £165 million a year since 2021 to improve maternity and neonatal care.
"This will rise to £186 million a year in April, improving the quality of care for mothers and babies and increasing the number of midwifery posts available."
North Bristol NHS Trust continues to run appointments, breastfeeding support and other services from Cossham, as well as a midwife-led centre at Southmead Hospital and a home birth service.
Happy birthday to Warmley Wheelers!
WARMLEY Wheelers, a community initiative dedicated to promoting cycling and enhancing wellbeing, is celebrating its tenth anniversary. It provides accessible cycling opportunities for individuals with health conditions and supported needs, of all ages and abilities, who might find it challenging to use a regular bicycle.
Run by Milestones Trust, a local charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs, Warmley Wheelers offers specially adapted bicycles for use by anyone who would like to use them.
Service coordinator Andy Underdown said: "Over the ten years we’ve been operating, we've seen firsthand the positive impact that making cycling accessible can have on individuals who would not otherwise be able to ride a bike - and we remain committed to expanding access to this lifeenriching activity for years to
come. Our range of bikes mean that we can accommodate a wide range of needs."
Hilary Crowhurst, chief executive at Milestones Trust, said: “In addition to promoting physical activity and wellbeing, Warmley Wheelers has brought the simple joy of cycling to many individuals over the years – it provides an important connective function in the community and I’m proud to see it celebrating such an important milestone.”
Warmley Wheelers was started by Liz Gray who, after moving into the area with her husband and son – who is autistic – was amazed to discover that there was no place that offered disabled cycle hire along the whole of the Bristol and Bath Cycle Track. Attending the celebration, Liz said: “It is very satisfying to have an idea that actually comes to fruition. Without the support of Milestones Trust, the coordinators Patrick and Andy,
Sarah-Jane, right, who attended the ceremony, which included cutting of a special cake
and of course all the wonderful volunteers, the project would not be the success it is today. It’s such an important service and seeing the benefit it has brought to so many people really warms my heart”.
To mark the occasion, Warmley Wheelers invited people who use the service, volunteers, funders and supporters to join them for celebration, including a group ride to nearby Avon Valley Railway at Bitton, and a walk through Warmley Forest Park, with the day ending with cake.
Andy said he hopes the event will inspire even more people to
get involved and use the service in the future.
For more information about Warmley Wheelers, including how you can book a session with an adapted bike, please visit www.milestonestrust.org.uk/ what-we-offer/warmley-
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With two bank holidays and the school holidays, May is a good time to get out and about and explore the local area. We compiled a list of local attractions around Kingswood, which are either free or incur a small fee to visit. Take a look and enjoy exploring!
1. Grimsbury Farm: On Grimsbury Roar in Kingswood, this community farm is owned by South Gloucestershire Council. Access is free and there is free parking on site. Open between 9am to 5pm, the farm has a selection of animals including horses, sheep, pigs, rabbits as well as chickens and ducks. Facilities include a play area, an orchard and a cafe. Animal feed can also be purchased at £1 per serving, for feeding sheep and goats or chicken. To find out more visit https://www.grimsburyfarm. org/.
2. Kingswood Heritage Museum: The largest independent museum in South Gloucestershire, Kingswood Museum is on the site of William Champion’s 18th Century brass works in Warmley. Open for the summer season, the museum is a champion of local history and holds a wide collection of local artefacts, photos and interactive resources. New exhibitions this year include a spotlight of Kingswood’s High Street shops, a fully operating train track, a history of local pubs and of local farms over the years. Entrance is free for children under
Free family fun in our area
12 and £4.50 for over 12 year olds. The museum also has a gift shop, a range of local history books, and a Tea room. More details can be found by visiting https://www. kingswoodmuseum.org.uk/
3. Kingsmeadow at MadeForever: This community hub on Fisher Road in Kingswood runs a range of clubs and activities for all ages. From tots group and youth group, to support with technology and activities such bingo, knitting, crochet, walking, friendship and exercise. A new group called Sounds and Wellbeing in Nature started on Monday April 29. The Community Cafe on site also offers free hot meals and food parcels. For more details visit https:// kingsmeadowmade4ever.org.uk/ 4. Kingswood Park: Kingswood Park celebrates 90 years in 2024. Access within the park as well as the park play area and other faciles are in the process of being updated. You can read more about the renovation plans in our article on Page 14.
5. Avon Valley Railway (Bitton Station): This is an opportunity to take a step back in time to experience an original Victorian Midland Railway station with modern facilities. Visitors can go for a walk alongside the track on the Bristol & Bath Railway Path (the 13 mile off-road route between Bristol and Bath city centres) or take a ride in a heritage carriage behind one of the steam or diesel
locomotives. You can take a picnic to the dedicated picnic area at Avon Riverside Station or enjoy breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea in the station buffet. More details available here https://www. avonvalleyrailway.org/
6. Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve: This is a nature reserve tucked away in Hanham, just off Bryants Hill (A431), with ponds, stream, park and woodland. If you enjoy getting closer to nature, Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve is the right place. From the main entrance on Byrants Hill, the path takes you to a duck pond and a natural spring. Next, you will reach the narrow nature reserve, where you can explore small areas of woodland and parkland. It can take around two hours to explore around the whole Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve and there is also the option to extend your walk further to Dundridge Park, Conham River Park or Troopers Hill.
7. Dundridge Park and Conham Vale: Located near Hanham and on the border of St George is Dundridge Park with picturesque views. Dundridge Park has large, flat, grass areas and scenic walkways, football pitches and an enclosed children’s play area. Woodlands border the park, which lead up to Conham Vale, a steep sloping woodland which was previously a quarry and is now abundant with wildlife and spring flowers. Conham Vale has gravel
walkways that meander through the woods, leading to the old quarry and further down to the stream and pond.
8. Willsbridge Mill: Set in the heart of Willsbridge, Willsbridge Mill Nature Reserve is an oasis of tranquillity, where people can connect with nature. Visitors can explore scenic trails, walk along the river and enjoy a warm drink at the cafe. Willsbridge Mill also runs community events, educational programmes, and conservation projects which aim to engage members of the local community. For more details visit https:// willsbridgemill.com/
9. Warmley Forest Park: An area of woodland, hedgerows and paths, Warmley Forest Park is near the Bristol to Bath Railway Path. The main entrance to the park is off Warmley High Street and there is free parking on Station Close. The park has large open grasslands, woodlands, Siston Brook and a large pond.
10. Wick Golden Valley: Wick Golden Valley is a nature reserve with mature trees including English oak, beech, ash, whitebeam lime and wild service tree. These are remnants of the ancient Kingswood royal hunting forest. In spring, you can see bluebell cover and waymarked paths. The red path leads to an ochre quarry and a large weir. Parking is in the Village Hall car park, next to the Rose & Crown pub.
Preparing for battle in NESH
L ABOUR Party members in the new Parliamentary constituency of Hanham and North East Somerset will choose their general election candidate this month.
The contenders for the role are James Caldwell, Rebecca Montacute and former MP Dan Norris, who is currently Mayor of the West of England,.
The successful candidate will be up against the veteran Conservative Jacob ReesMogg, MP for North East Somerset since 2010, Lib Dem Dine Romero and the Greens’ Edmund Cannon.
The Green Party selected Mr Cannon, a professor of economics at the University of Bristol and a Keynsham town councillor, in December 2022.
The NESH constituency includes Hanham, Longwell Green and Keynsham.
n AROUND THE WIs
LONGWELL GREEN WI
IT has been good to see some sunshine and with the lighter nights - perhaps spring is on the way.
At our April meeting our President, Sandra Hill, welcomed the Avon WI Federation Chairperson, Sue Murphy who presented Longwell Green WI with a certificate to celebrate our 70th anniversary. Sue praised the past and present committees for their hard work in keeping our WI going for the past 70 years.
We are looking forward to our 70th birthday party with buffet and entertainment.
We then had a flower arranging demonstration by Coral Gardener. Coral gave us an interesting talk with useful tips on which flowers and shrubbery to use and how to make them look their best in various shaped containers. She very kindly donated some of her beautiful arrangements for our raffle, the members who won one of the displays went home very happy with their winnings.
Members have been enjoying the local countryside and Bristol Docks with the walking groups
and some had a pleasant meal at a local restaurant.
We have a demonstration at Fonthill garden centre, a craft day in May and a trip to Windsor with a boat trip and lunch for members to look forward to.
We have lots of groups that our members can participate in. There are book clubs, walking groups, knitting group, skittles and social suppers. On the first Thursday of the month, we meet at The Chapel Coffee Shop in Longwell Green for Tea and Chat.
Longwell Green WI regular meetings are on the third Friday of the month at 7.30pm at Longwell Green Community Centre and new members are always welcome. If you are interested in visiting, please get in touch by email at longwellwi@gmail.com, telephone 0117 9864782 or come along on the meeting evening. We shall look forward to meeting you.
Linda MullerHANHAM EVENING WI
“A DOG is man’s (and of course ladies') best friend”. This saying, familiar to most of us, was the theme of our latest meeting and members became aware just how true the saying is.
Annie, an ambassador dog, ably assisted by her handler Neil Smart, our speaker for the evening, told us about the life saving activities of “medical detection dogs”. We were grateful to the pair of them who joined us at short notice when our original speaker was unable to make it.
A lot is known about sniffer dogs who can detect, for example, drugs, or who can help trace missing people or even take brandy to alpine climbers in difficulties!! but we hear little about the work of medical
detection dogs. These are the dogs who are “super sniffers” and use their incredible sense of smell to save lives each and every day. We learnt that the use of these dogs for this purpose is in its infancy and they are being trained to work in two ways. Firstly, they can become “companion” dogs where they live permanently with individuals who have an ongoing medical condition. By using their amazing sense of smell, they are trained to identify minute odour changes emitted prior to an emergency and then alert the person to take preventative action.
They are also used in one off situations where they can detect conditions such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, malaria and now even Covid-19! Being used in this way they can diagnose disease much earlier, through less invasive and less expensive methods thereby helping to reduce 999 calls and hospital admissions.
One dog has even been sent to America where it is being studied to try to identify how its sense of smell works to see if it can be replicated using AI – a world beyond most of us at the moment I imagine.
So, thanks to Neil and, woofwoof to Annie, for giving us a such a valuable insight to their work.
This month saw the second of a new venture initiated by the branch – cinema club. Each month a film is selected and members are invited to turn up on the day at the Vue cinema and the group then watch the film together. There is no need to book in advance and everyone just pays on the day. This month’s film was Wicked Little Letters staring Olivia Coleman which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
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Cancer appeal for nurse goes viral
A KINGSWOOD nurse has begun vital cancer treatment in Germany after her family’s fundraising appeal brought in nearly £90,000 in a week.
Mildred – Millie – Olika was diagnosed in March with stage 4 brain cancer that had spread from her lungs. Doctors said chemotherapy would do little to help.
Her three daughters, Stacey, Lydia and Emily, discovered that advanced cell therapy offered in Germany could potentially improve her prognosis by years so they launched an online appeal.
“Our mum has dedicated her life to caring for others as a nurse. Now she finds herself in need of care and treatment. It's our turn to rally around her in her time of need,” they said.
To their amazement, money poured in and they surpassed their original £70,000 target in four days, reaching £89,320 by the time they paused the appeal
on April 21. The additional funds will pay for an additional treatment to destroy cancer cells in Millie’s brain.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for your ongoing support and generosity. Your kind words, moral support,
'The best possible news'
DAVID Gibbs, from Staple Hill, who underwent a new brain cancer treatment in Germany following a £160,000 fundraising campaign, has said his tumour is no longer visible.
"Yes, the most brilliant news but with the caveat that the scan (better than anything available in the UK), still can’t see everything, so there may be microscopic cancer cells hiding.
"But the best news we could possibly hope for!" he said.
David, 39, who is married with a young daughter, had treatment after family, friends and strangers supported Dave's Brain Fund, set up by his sister.
He added; "We don’t know what the next steps are, we would love there to be a test that could tell us it is gone. For now we plan to continue treatment and monitoring in Germany. A massive thank you to everyone who has helped us along the way."
prayers and donations have truly been a source of hope and comfort for us during this challenging time,” the family wrote on the GoFundMe page. They said they would never have anticipated the overwhelming outpouring of love and support their familu would receive
“Our mum wanted us to convey her immense gratitude to each and every one of you. She is deeply touched by the outpouring of kindness and sends her blessings to all of you.”
n ANTIQUES
That's the way to do it!
MY favourite parts of being an auctioneer are meeting interesting people and finding incredible items – and a recent house call ticked both of those boxes.
Several weeks back, myself and a colleague were called to a client’s home. We met the gentleman on his doorstep and were shown to a back room where we were greeted by an incredible sight – an original Punch and Judy puppet theatre!
Although a rare sight these days, Punch and Judy shows have entertained children (and adults) for hundreds of years. The character has roots that can be traced back to sixteenth century Italian theatre, and the first recorded appearance of Mr Punch in England was in 1662. Hugely popular in the eighteenth century, and continued popularity well into the early twentieth centuries, there was barely a pier or beach in the country that didn’t have their own Punch And Judy show.
This particular puppet theatre bore all the scars and wear from decades of performing. The puppets were a mixture of Victorian and later – many of them with evidence of running repairs, and the theatre itself had been modified and fixed over the years. It came with excellent provenance too, being once owned by Bristol-based Punch & Judy puppeteer Bert Bradford who performed all over the South West including Bristol, Bath, Weston Super Mare and Somerset from around the twenties to the early sixties. If you saw a show in that period, chances are it was this one.
Punch and Judy may not be as popular as they once were, but there are collectors who will pay big prices for nostalgic items such as this. As I write, the theatre and puppets are entered into our upcoming auction with an estimate of one-thousand to twothousand pounds. Much like the famous crocodile puppet, I’m hoping someone will ‘snap’ it up!
Andrew Stowe, Auctioneumsoundwell music therapy
PLEASE support your local mental health charity Soundwell from May 14-28.
There is currently a well-documented issue with mental health challenges, anxiety and depression in our region and this has been hugely impacted by the cost of living crisis.
Soundwell Music Therapy is the only specialist adult mental health music therapy charity in the UK. It provides a unique, inclusive and accessible music therapy service for adults affected by serious and enduring mental illness across Bristol and Bath (B&NES).
Using music to explore creativity, communication and expression the charity is able to support people in their mental health recovery, rebuilding hope and transforming lives.
Soundwell is delighted that this year it has been chosen to take part in the Big Give Kind2Mind match funded campaign. This means all donations received between May 14 and 28 will be doubled.
All funds will go towards core service delivery, ensuring they can continue to offer the highest quality of music therapy completely free to those in need.
Clients chose from a range of options, including singing and instrumental improvisation groups. Everyone is welcome, including those who think they don’t have musical skill.
'Began the session very fraught and anxious. After session I am uplifted and happy!' Soundwell participant
To donate to the campaign please go to https://donate.biggive.org/ campaign/a056900002SEVfWAAX
For more information about the charity, visit https://soundwell.org
DOWNEND CHAP
DOWNEND'S Community History and Arts Project is holding a free history walk in May.
Everyone is welcome to join this fascinating amble around the centre of Downend, to find out how our area grew from a wild and dark forest into a thriving modern community.
During the walk, on Saturday May 11, we will discuss some places which no longer exist, like Cleve Hill House, the Quaker burial ground, the Cottage Homes and the hat factory, as well as some which are still standing, like the Green Dragon, WG Grace’s birthplace and the King George V Playing Fields.
We will cover some local people and incidents, and recount changes in society over the centuries.
As well as sharing the history they have found, CHAP members are also keen to collect people’s
own reminiscences, as the group’s aim is to gather and share local history. So please come along with your memories and stories from the past, or questions if you are keen to know more.
The event will be supported by Historic England’s Local Heritage Education Manager Michael Gorely. The walk is open to people of all ages and abilities and will not include any hills. There is no need to book. Meet at the Scout Memorial at 10am.
CHAP is a not-for-profit voluntary organisation that aims to produce a community history resource and create a coherent identity for Downend and Emersons Green, built around interesting or significant places, people and events from the past.
For more information visit www.downendchap.org, email big. gin@talktalk.net or write to CHAP, 49 Overnhill Road, Downend, Bristol, BS16 5DS.
Helen Rana
n WHAT'S ON
MAY 11TH
n COFFEE MORNING at Hanham United Reformed Church in Tabernacle Road BS15 8DU10.30am - Proceeds to Christian Aid - Everyone welcome.
MAY 15TH
n HANHAM UNITED REFORMED CHURCH - Tabernacle Ladies Circle - 2.00pm - Handicraft demonstration with pressed flowers with Wendy Stone. Come and join with us - subs £2 including tea/coffee and biscuits.
MONDAY
n YOGA CLASSES AT HANHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE - Monday evenings 7-8 pm All levels including Beginners welcome. To book your place or for further information please email yogashula@hotmail.com or Tel 07949333548.
TUESDAY
n LIP READING CLASS, 1.303pm at North Common Village Hall, Millers Drive, BS30 8YH. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@yahoo.com
n TUESDAY CLUB a social group meet every Tuesday 1.45-3.45pm at Longwell Green Community Centre
n HANHAM TENNIS CLUB Adult Play - Tuesday & Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Monday, Wednesday & Friday mornings, 9.30am - 11 am. Beginners' session coaching - Wednesday 7-8pm. Junior coaching - most early evenings. New players welcome. Fully qualified LTA coaching. See website for details www. hanhamtennisclub.co.uk
n LONGWELL GREEN SHORT
MAT BOWLS CLUB, We meet Wednesday and Fridays 1.30 to 3.30 at the Longwell Green community centre , Shellards road, in the California suite. All equipment provided. Beginners very welcome. We are a friendly group who need additional members. Email. Michael8bence@gmail.com. Tel 07800869837
n LONGWELL GREEN LADIES
GROUP meet at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green BS30 9DU (opp. Aldi). Please phone Maureen on 0117 9322341
WEDNESDAY
n BARRS COURT PROBUS CLUB Retired and semi-retired Professional and Businessmen: Meet 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 10-12 at Longwell Green Community Centre. Please contact our Membership Secretary, Mick Funnell: 0117 932 4104 or email bcprobusclub@gmail. com to arrange a visit. Website: https://barrscourtprobus.org/
n JOIN OUR OVER 65’S EXERCISE AND FRIENDSHIP
GROUP at The Community Project in Cadbury Heath (BS30 8EL) every Wednesday, 10-11:30am. Improve strength, balance, and more in a fun, inclusive environment. Just £5/session includes tea/coffee and chat. Don’t miss out on boosting your well-being! For more information contact Adam - 07875503586
n BARRS COURT LADIES CLUB: Wives and partners of the Probus club members meet 10-12 on the
n COMMUNITY NEWS
U3A
ARE you free on Wednesday May 8, from 2.30pm onwards?
Why not come along to the Crafty Egg in Fishponds for an informal social? You’ll meet some existing members of Bristol u3a (you in your Third Age) and have a chance to find out more about us and what we’re up to in East & North-East Bristol.
Don’t worry if you can’t make that as we’ll be announcing more drop-in events around the area in future editions of The Voice.
We’re always looking to start new interest groups locally, and the Sociable Cycling Group
second Wednesday of each month at the United Church, Bath Road, Longwell Green. Website: https:// barrscourtprobus.org/ n LONGWELL GREEN PROBUS CLUB meets at Warmley Community Centre on the first and third Wednesday of each month.. New members welcomefor details contact Mike on 07817094147
n HANHAM BRIDGE CLUB Every Weds 7-10pm at Hanham Community Centre, see www. hanhambridgeclub.co.uk.
n HANHAM PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY: We are a friendly club who welcome photographers of all abilities to share our hobby. Meetings are at 7,30p.m. Wednesday evenings at Hanham Methodist Church, 26 Chapel Rd, Hanham, Bristol BS15 8SD. Visit https://www.hanhamphoto. org.uk or contact Geoff Mallin by email geoffmemsechps@gmail. com.
n RWP BADMINTON CLUB play at Hanham woods Academy 6.307.30 social club, 7.30-9.30 league club. Visitors welcome, please look at the website for more details n LIP READING CLASS, 10amnoon, Warmley Community Centre. Termtime only. Contact Mary Hall 07790 283939, lipreadingmary@ yahoo.com
THURSDAY
n ‘STAND UP REACH OUT’ A social group meet every Thursday 2-4pm at Longwell Green Community Centre for different activities.
n HANHAM ART CLUB We are friendly group that meets on a Thursday evening at Hanham Community Centre 7pm-9pm. New members welcome from beginners to the more experienced. For more information contact Hilary on 07880548481 or email tweenuk2003@yahoo.com
has been established for just over a year.
It meets twice a month, on the first and second Thursday mornings, and rides will usually start somewhere along the Bristol to Bath or Ring Road paths.
The first ride of the month is fully accessible to all abilities - short, on cycle paths or quiet lanes at an easy pace. The second will be for the more confident cyclists - longer, on roads and more challenging.
Whatever the distance, there is always at least one stop for a cuppa and cake. It’s a highly participative group and routes are suggested by group members. Note that all participating cyclists are fully responsible for their own safety
n AVON SCALE MODEL
SOCIETY: As a friendly long standing local model making club, we meet at Longwell Green Community Centre on the Third Thursday of every month at 8pm. All subjects in all scales are covered,aircraft, AFV,s cars, bikes, sci-fi, etc. New members are always welcome. Please phone Ian on 0117 9603435
FRIDAY
n LONGWELL GREEN WI meet on the third Friday of the month at 7.30pm at Longwell Green Community Centre. New members are always welcome. Email longwellwi@gmail.com or tel. 0117 9864782.
n TAI CHI FOR PARKINSON'S: Weekly beginners Tai Chi & Qi Gong class for people with Parkinson’s disease, their families and carers. Lincombe Barn, Downend. BS16 2RW. Fridays (term times) 10.15 – 12.15 including tea / coffee break. Contact: Claire - Claire@Taichibodyandmind. co.uk (07769 857672) or Sarah - buqiworks@gmail.com (07815 662844)
n CROFT END SILVER BAND Hanham Tabernacle, Tabernacle Road, practice 7.15pm - 8.45pm. Players needed on all sections , all ages welcome and training given. We are a happy Band with a good atmosphere. More details contact Rob (Chairman) on 07788 473404
n LONGWELL GREEN COMMUNITY CENTRE QUIZ NIGHT, meets normally first Friday of each month at 8 pm. Bar available. For details please contact Marian.r.summerill@gmail.com, or ring 07503 989880.
and the safety of others around them. Bristol u3a is for anyone with some free time for themselves.
There’s no lower age limit, but most of our members are retired or semi-retired.
We come from all walks of life and have (at least) one thing in common: a zest for living and for trying/learning new things.
There are over 150 interest groups across Bristol for members to join – simply Google “Bristol u3a” to see for yourself, or contact me at learnlaughlive@bristolu3a.org.uk to find out more.
Lindsay GoughEnd of term for Kingswood Old Scholars?
A GROUP for former pupils of Kingswood Grammar School and its successors is facing closure after 32 years.
Kingswood Old Scholars Association, which brings together people who met at the school, holds regular reunion lunches and produces a magazine in which news and memories are shared.
But after failing to recruit people to take on key roles on its committee, including magazine editor and treasurer, it has decided to wind up. Unless anyone comes forward, the autumn lunch and autumn magazine will be the last.
Mike Bendrey, who has edited the 28page KOSA News, said in his editorial in the spring edition: “Over the past 32 years that we have produced KOSA News, we are proud to have brought together many, perhaps hundreds, of school friends to meet again and to roll back to those years when
we originally met at school. For me it’s been a labour of love.
“I would also like to thank all those committee members and others who have kept KOSA going for so long.”
The biannual magazine is distributed to members throughout the UK and in France, Spain, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA and South Africa.
Anyone willing to take on the editorship is asked to contact kosanews@tiscali.co.uk
The autumn lunch and AGM will take place at Lincombe Barn, Downend, on Saturday October 12. Once the association is wound up, any funds in its account will be donated to King’s Oak Academy, the successor school.
Kingswood Grammar School opened in 1927, having been founded as Kingswood Secondary School six years earlier. It became Kingsfield School in 1968.
The original, wooden school building famously burned down in a suspected arson attack in 1976.
Kingsfield was rebuilt as a modern twostorey building in 1977 and in 2011 became King’s Oak Academy. A primary on the site opened in 2015, enabling the provision of education for children from the ages of four to 16 on the site at Brook Road, Warmley.
Alumni of the school include Sir Bernard Lovell, founder of the Jodrell Bank observatory; Professor Colin Pillinger, best known for the Beagle 2 Mars lander; and Richard Scudamore, former chief executive of the Premier League.
Professor Pillinger, who died in 2014, once wrote that the wooden school was nicknamed “the cow sheds” when he attended, and that seeing Sir Bernard’s name on the school honours board inspired him.
Homes join plastic bag recycling scheme
HOMES in parts of Bitton, Bridgeyate, North Common, Oldland Common, Warmley, Willsbridge are among 20,000 that will be included in an expanded scheme to take plastic bags and wrapping as part of kerbside recycling collections.
South Gloucestershire Council is expanding its participation in the FPF FlexCollect project, a national scheme to recycle soft plastics, to cover around one in every five homes in the district.
The scheme started in 2022 with pilot blue bag collections from 2,homes in Chipping Sodbury, Bradley Stoke, Olveston and Alveston.
A council spokesperson said that since then, more than 19 tonnes of plastic bags and wrappers – enough to fill more than 7,000 standard council wheelie bins – had been collected across the district and sent to several different UK facilities to test recycling methods.
Packaging that can be recycled includes sweet, crisp and multipack wrappers, sleeves from plastic bottles, cheese, meat and microwavable food packets, bubble wrap, cling film and plastic net bags for onions, oranges and other fruit and veg.
The authority said it could not share a full list of the streets involved in the extension of the project, as not all homes on some longer streets would be included in the trial.
Those households which are included in the expansion were due to be given information leaflets over the coming weeks, followed by blue plastic bags to put their waste soft plastics in. The bags will be hand-delivered, with residents encouraged to ask deliverers about the scheme if they have any questions.
The scheme does not affect the existing collections for plastic trays and containers.
The council aims to see how large-scale soft plastic recycling works, to help plan for future collections across the country. It plans to extend the service to all households in South Glos by 2026. Another trial project, to collect grass cuttings and use them to generate energy, is being extended to Staple Hill and Mangotsfield this year. The project, called Greenprint, involves collecting grass cut from verges, parks and other green spaces, rather than leaving it on the ground. It is then mixed with food waste collected from homes and taken to an energy plant to create biogas using a process called anaerobic digestion, where the waste is broken down in the absence of oxygen.
n NEWS
Plea over GP funding shortfall
KINGSWOOD Health Centre is at the forefront of a campaign to raise awareness of the funding crisis facing GP practices.
The surgery has written to its 13,000 patients explaining that the money it receives from the government has not kept pace with large rises in costs – such as for staffing, electricity and supplies – and increased demand from patients.
The letter warns: “We are all struggling to stay afloat. If this continues, your local practice may disappear.”
Managing partner Robyn Clark told the Voice the health centre was not in imminent danger of closure but it was facing severe financial pressures.
Under the latest agreement, the government has increased funding for GP practices by just 2 per cent this year while bills have risen by much more.
This is at a time when demand is continuing to increase. The surgery says it is seeing 20 per cent more patients than before the pandemic – more than 7,000 a month.
To balance the books, Kingswood Health Centre has had to freeze recruitment, so patients are warned they might have to wait longer for appointments, medical reports and responses to requests.
In the letter, patients are told they can help by visiting the pharmacy first for some illnesses and by attending health checks when invited.
“At Kingswood Health Centre we are feeling the pressure and are working as hard as we can to provide the right care for our patients.
“We are worried and distressed about the current situation too and wish we could do more,” the practice says.
Patients who share the GPs’ concerns are urged to write to their MP.
The Government says that across the country it is providing 50 million more GP appointments per yet and that funding for GP practices rose by 19 per cent between 2017 and 2022.
n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Bee a par t of No Mow May
IF you peer over your garden fence this May, you might think your neighbour’s lawn is looking a little scruffy.
A few more dandelions than normal, or (horror!) patches of grass growing at different lengths. But don’t tut – that may be on purpose. And it’s a good thing!
Yes, it’s that time of year again – No Mow May, where people keep their lawnmowers and strimmers in the shed for 31 days, and give space back to nature.
It’s a simple idea. Giving the mower a breather means spring plants getting a chance to set seed before the first cutting.
This means your lawn becomes a haven for insects, birds, hedgehogs, and more.
And it allows wild plants to get a foothold in May, to feed bees, and other pollinators, through summer.
I’ve backed this campaign since it started in 2018 and every year, I’m always fascinated speaking with residents about the different plants they spot in their backyards.
I’m not just talking daisies or buttercups either, but plants we’d not often see in our gardens – one resident told me she’d even started growing wild strawberries!
Worryingly, future generations won’t see
these either if we continue down our current path. Tragically we’ve lost 97% of our wildflower meadows since the 30s.
That’s why I’m again urging readers to take part by doing, well, nothing! Leave the mower alone, and watch the flowers fill your lawn.
Check out plantlife.org.uk/campaigns/nomowmay for more information.
If you can’t imagine allowing your entire patch to run wild, then how about leaving a circle of grass in the centre of the lawn to bloom? Or why not stagger it – so that you have one area that’s mown once a month, one area mown at the end of summer, and so on.
For those without a garden, fear not! I’m urging everyone to check in with their local church, school or anywhere with grass or fields, and ask if some space can be left for nature this year.
Ultimately, the momentum behind No Mow May shouldn’t stop with May, and thanks to the West of England Combined Authority I lead, it won’t.
An incredible 620,000 square metres of land is being transformed for the region’s pollinators thanks to bee-rilliant bee projects we’re funding.
This is double the target I set when launch-
560 run 10k
THIS year’s Frenchay 10k was “yet again incredibly well supported”, with more than 560 runners taking part.
The 42nd running of the race on April 14, from UWE’s Glenside campus in Fishponds, raised money for charities Freewheelers (blood bikes) and Suicide Prevention UK, who provided marshals along with members of Emersons Green running club.
Race Director Dave Guyatt said: “Both charities will receive a donation from the race committee, to the tune of several thousand pounds each.
“We were blessed with some lovely spring sunshine, which was greatly welcomed after such a wet period.”
Dave extended special thanks to Emersons Green Running Club, who provided volunteer marshals around the 10k course.
Many EGRC members also ran in the race and, with Ian Leonard coming in second place overall, with a time of 35m 45s.
EGRC’s Jolene Bereza was the third-placed female finisher and 18th overall, in 41m 13s.
ing a £1 million Pollinator Fund for projects that support bees, and other pollinator superheroes.
Projects like the creation of mini nature reserves in ten primary and secondary schools across the West, including in Coalpit Heath, Temple Cloud, and Bristol.
Alongside my annual Bee Bold Awards, we’re making the West the bee and pollinator capital of the country.
But I know we can go further.
So, this year, please give No Mow May a go. Who knows, you might like it so much you give the lawnmower a permanent shunning. The bees will certainly thank you for that.
n NEWS
Bridge works close the motorway
THE M4 has undergone the first of three overnight closures as part of work to replace the A432 Badminton Road bridge.
National Highways, which owns the bridge and is responsible for the replacement work, closed the motorway in both directions between the Hambrook and Tormarton junctions (19 and 18) overnight on April 18, and has announced two more closures, on May 16 and June 13, from 9.30pm until 6am each night.
Drivers heading east are being diverted via the M32 on to the A4174 Avon Ring Road, the A420 between Warmley and Cold Ashton, then the A46 to Tormarton, with westbound traffic diverted onto the same route in the opposite direction.
The closure is part of "investigations to determine utility connection points", as engineers work out how to reroute the cables and pipes which are carried by the bridge.
They are also carrying out "ecological mitigation" before vegetation clearance around the structure begins. Surveys at the site found that dormice, a protected species, live there, which means the contractors need a special licence from environment body Natural England.
The bridge, which carried 16,000 vehicles a day on the A432 between Bristol and
Yate, closed last July after engineers found "accelerated deterioration and cracking" in the concrete.
It meant motorists who travelled on Badminton Road between Downend and Frampton Cotterell had to find alternative routes, in part on narrow country roads.
In an update on its work National Highways said: "At present, we are on schedule to begin trenching works below the
n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence
M4 around mid-June, with an anticipated demolition date of September/October, subject to coordination with utility providers and other authorities.
"The bridge will remain open to pedestrians and cyclists until demolition takes place."
"Further overnight closures may be required before demolition of the structure."
Create your own nursery for butterflies
A RECENT conversation with a friend, in which I asserted that the word for butterfly is invariably beautiful in all languages, set us agoogling. We found that the German word for butterfly, Schmetterling, refers to cream and originates in a belief that witches disguised themselves as butterflies in order to steal nips of cream and butter (a belief presumably shared in Britain). What a delightful contrast with the usual unsympathetic portrayal of witches! Nettles tend to grow where cows are housed (because they thrive in soils enriched with manure) and small tortoiseshell, peacock and comma, all widespread species whose larvae eat nettles, might therefore be expected to be more common around dairies, perhaps leading to this story.
This got me thinking about food plants. Without food for the caterpillars we won’t get any butterflies yet the emphasis is often placed on growing nectar plants for adult insects, over-looking the essential larval stage. With their stubby legs and podgy bodies caterpillars are not built for travel, they are eating machines and tend to pupate on or near their food plant. This means that if you provide their food, they will hatch in your garden.
So what plants are needed for baby butterflies to thrive? As you might expect, our commoner species are generally undemanding and you can make your garden into a top-class nursery for butterflies with ease. The orange tip caterpillar eats brassicaceous plants such as garlic mustard, a common weed, as does the green-veined white, and orange tips will also eat honesty and dame’s violet (they seem to be delicate feeders and I have never known them to grow to pest proportions). The holly blue
(with its beautiful silver-backed blue wings) alternates between holly for the spring brood and ivy for the summer brood and will also eat bramble. The common blue eats black medick and bird’s foot trefoil (black medick appeared in our garden once we had left the lawn to its own devices and bird’s foot trefoil is easily obtainable as a wild flower seed).
Then nettles, of course: their leaves are also eaten by a range of other insects including moth caterpillars and leaf hoppers; they are in turn eaten by predatory insects and spiders and these provide food for the birds. A nettle patch, particularly in a sunny spot, is a great addition to your garden – down by the compost heap will provide ideal soil for them.
Least fussy of all, bless them, are meadow brown, speckled wood, gatekeeper and ringlet, and small and large skippers, all of which simply require rough grasses - the easiest of all the caterpillars to cater for. All are various shades of brown but decorated with delicate stripes and spots and – particularly the browns – given to elaborate aerial chases on sunny days. Simply set aside part of your lawn for the summer and spend the time saved on mowing by watching the butterflies dance.
n STYLE ADVICE with Gail Painter
Skinny jeans are coming back
ACCORDING to fashion bible British Vogue, skinny jeans are back in fashion for 2024.
The spray-on jeans first hit the fashion scene more than a decade ago, and I
think it’s fair to say that pretty much everyone adopted the look.
Indeed, I find there’s at least one pair of skinny jeans lurking in the back of almost every client’s wardrobe I see.
So for many, skinny jeans never went away. Albeit they mixed up their selection of jeans with other, more looser-fitting styles that have swept into high street stores in recent years. Think straight, wide-leg, boot cut and flare.
Personally, the only time I think they look good (particularly on my ‘strawberry’ body type) is when I wear them tucked into a pair of knee-high, high heeled boots. It gives a streamlined silhouette.
And that’s the issue with skinny jeans –they take a bit of work.
They don’t really suit most of our body shapes. Most of us aren’t straight up and down – a rectangle body shape – but we still want to wear them.
There are plenty of jean designs to flatter everyone in 2024, so no pressure – but if you do want to get back into skinnies, here’s some thoughts to consider before jumping in:
• For pear body types: choose high-rise
24 HOUR LOCKSMITH & DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS
designs with no gaping at the waist, showing off your curves.
• For apple body types: honestly, stick to straight, boot-cut or wide-leg, which are more flattering, and no cropped designs that shorten leg length.
• For hourglass body types: keep body in balance – wear the same/similar colour on your top half and choose jeans with stretch to work with curves. Ideally, I would choose slim over skinny jeans.
• For strawberry body types: wear with boots as above, to balance a wider top half with leaner lower half. Look for cargo detail to widen and balance your silhouette.
• For rectangle body types: wearing skinnies is easy for you. If tall, opt for a mid-rise. Petites should wear skinnies with nude shoes, for added height.
For more on the latest shopping ‘finds’ follow me at @gailpainter on Instagram.
Longwell Green Short Mat Bowls
We are a friendly group who meet in the Longwell Green Community Centre Shellards Road, (California suite)
We meet on Wednesdays and Fridays from 1.30 until 3.30. We welcome beginners equally as much as experienced players.
All equipment provided and full training given. Why not come along for an afternoons enjoyment. Just come along on the day or learn more by contacting Michael on 07800 869837 or Michael8bence@gmail.com
hanham&longwellgreenvoice
n SPORT
KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB
IT is the time of the year when those of our members who play throughout the winter at the Bristol Indoor Bowling Centre check their kit for the start of the new outdoor season.
Our ladies playing indoors competed in the Wednesday Fours and the Thursday Triples, finishing both in mid-table positions.
Our men played in various leagues, ending up as winners in two. In the Thursday Triples, Paul Matthews, Bob Payne plus Bert Merrell from Fry’s Bowling Club not only topped the league but also obtained a hotshot. That is when all of your team’s woods end up closer to the jack than any of your opposition’s, allowing you to obtain certificates from Bowls England to acknowledge the achievement.
Our photograph shows (left to right) Bert, Bob and Paul with their certificates. The same players, with Roger Price, won the Tuesday Fours, and Roger
playing with Paul in the pairs also achieved a hotshot.
Moving on to the outdoor game, the opening of our green was delayed by wet weather, but things are now moving forward as leagues for ladies and gents get under way.
We launched the new season with a party, when we were entertained by vocalist Naomi, who performed songs from the 60s and 70s. During the break, we enjoyed an afternoon tea prepared and served by Annette, Julie, Lyn and Simon. The afternoon was appreciated by the 60 members who attended, as our photograph shows, as they looked forward to the first rollup of the season.
It would be remiss not to mention the Monday boys – a group of members who turn up rain or shine throughout the winter to carry out indoor and outdoor maintenance to ensure everything is “spic and span” when the season starts.
Mike BarrowLoft Boarding & Insulation
n SPORT
Champions! Rugby club future's bright
KINGSWOOD Rugby Club’s first team have secured promotion with a 29-19 win against title rivals Dings Crusaders.
Promotion as champions – watched by a record 600 supporters - marks a huge turnaround for the side after they finished bottom of the league just two years earlier.
It also comes as the club prepares to celebrate its platinum jubilee and a solid foundation for success at all levels.
The commitment of players and volunteers was rewarded on April 21 when the “blues and poos” were one of four teams from across the country selected to take part in a tournament on the hallowed turf of Twickenham. This was part of the Rugby Football Union’s 'Play Together Stay Together' initiative for teams prioritising the transition and retention of players into adult rugby.
Kingswood Rugby Club chairman Ian Starr told the Voice that supporting and keeping young players was important to the club.
“We have some players who have been with us for ten to 15 years,” he said. “Eight or nine of our first team squad came through our junior teams. Other players have joined in the last few years. There is a strong community atmosphere.”
‘The Big K’ runs teams for boys and girls of all ages as well as a first XV, second XV and veterans team. It also has walking rugby,
sessions for neurodivergent players and runs a mental health group.
The club, based at Grimsbury Road playing fields, has about 550 members. Some have been with the club for more than 30 years. Volunteers of all ages support the club’s activities.
Work is under way to improve the
changing rooms thanks to fundraising efforts that brought in £100,000, which was matched by funding from the RFU.
The start of the 2024-25 season is the club’s 70th anniversary, which will be marked by a 70-mile sponsored walk on the Monarch’s Way.
Bitton Road Runners have new HQ Rain stops play ...
BITTON Road Runners have moved to new facilities at Longwell Green Community Centre in Shellards Rd.
The club had been based at Old Abbotonians in Oldland Common for the last 20 years, but changes with league fixtures meant the facilities were not always available.
Vice chairman Nigel Cox said: “We are excited by the ; the facilities that Longwell Green Community Centre have suit our every need.”
The club was formed in 1986 when runners met at Bitton Railway Station - they initially called themselves Bitton Puffers. There are currently about 150 members who run competitively or for fun.
New chairman Steve Herring described Bitton Road Runners as “a small club that punches above its weight”.
The club organises seven races throughout the year, from The Hanham Horror at Easter to
a 5k series at Bitton on the cycle track during the summer, not to mention the Iconic ‘Sodbury Slog’ in November, which has been voted one of the best races in the UK. The first 5k at Bitton on May 8 will be raced under a new format. It will be chip timed and runners will be able to compare their performance against a Power of 10 national ranking. Monies from
the races help sustain the club and donations are made to charities during the year.
The runners run on a Tuesday and Thursday at 6.45 from the Centre in Shellards Road. New members are welcome.
Enquiries for membership can be made to the club secretary Shelleystiff-brr@yahoo.com
THE season for Carsons and Mangotsfield Cricket Club has got off to a slow start, with four of the first five games cancelled due to poor weather.
The weather meant players have been unable to start using outdoor nets, but the club will run two adult sessions per week, one with former Gloucestershire professional Damian Forder.
The club is also running the national All Stars programme for children aged 5-8: search for the club on the All Stars website if you have a child who is interested in having a go at cricket.
We also have spaces in our Under-9 age group.
The club is also looking to develop their links with local businesses through match-day sponsorship.
For more information about the club email iancoles7@sky.com.
Spring Flowers Match Up
n KINGSWOOD MEMORIES & HERITAGE MUSEUM
WARMLEY SWIMMING BATHS
Warmley Swimming Baths were once a popular facility for local residents, especially children, as illustrated in the photograph from the 1960s.Many children who attended Kingswood Grammar School in the early years had the pleasure of learning to swim in these baths.
In the later years of its use the water was green and extremely cold, having being fed by the old drainage Levers of the Cock Road group of mines. The Warmley baths were finally closed in the early 1960s following the opening of Soundwell Swimming Baths.
The line drawing by Samuel Loxton illustrates the baths by as they existed in the 1920s.
A model of the Warmley baths has recently been repaired by Warmley “Men in Sheds”, a charity based in Kingswood Heritage Museum. The model will be on display in the Museum until December, courtesy of a loan from Warmley Community Centre.
Kingswood Heritage Museum would like to hear from any of our readers who remember Warmley Swimming Baths. If you have any memories that you would like to share please contact us on 0117 960 5664 or by email at: kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com
Spring Bank Holiday and Douglas Cavalcade
Kingswood Heritage Museum will be open from 11am to 5pm every day over the Spring Bank Holiday at the end of May: Saturday May 25th, Sunday May 26th and Monday May 27th. William Champion’s Garden and Grotto will also be open on Sunday May 26th and Monday May 27th.
The annual Douglas Cavalcade is a regular feature of the Spring Bank Holiday. This year’s Cavalcade takes place on Sunday 26th May, when dozens of vintage motorcycles will move off at 12 noon to ride the old factory test route. The photo shows the start of a previous Cavalcade.
Museum talk: John Cennick, the 'Forgotten Kingswood Evangelist'
The second monthly talk this season takes place at Kingswood Heritage Museum on Wednesday 8th May, when Gary Best will tell the story of John Cennick, the “forgotten Kingswood evangelist”,
who was an English Methodist and Moravian evangelist and hymn writer. Admission costs £4, and light refreshments are available; doors open at 7pm and the talk commences at 7.30 pm; seats can be reserved by calling 0117 960 5664
Volunteer opportunities
Kingswood Heritage Museum always
welcomes new volunteers. The Museum would particularly like to hear from from anyone with experience of, or an interest in marketing and publicity. If you are interested in helping the Museum in any capacity, please either: email us at kingswoodmuseum@gmail.com or call us on 0117 960 5664
07940 247514