Henleaze & Westbury Voice March 2023

over end to free parking

PLANS to scrap free parking in the car park at Westbury on Trym have provoked a storm of protest.

The city council intends to charge £1 an hour for drivers to use the car park at Westbury Hill, which is alongside a doctors’ surgery and a church hall.

More than 50 objections from residents were presented to the cabinet meeting where the decision to bring in the fees was taken. Councillors from various parties also raised

concerns at a subsequent budget scrutiny meeting and were due to so at a full council meeting after the Voice went to print.

But unless there is a last minute change of heart, seven-day-a-week charges will be brought in later this year.

Ward councillors say the only chance of stopping them will be when the detailed proposal is announced, which could be at short notice.

Full story: Page 3

Westbury Hill car park

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Car park fees 'a tax on people being ill'

A DECISION to introduce charges at the Westbury Hill car park has been widely condemned by people in Westbury on Trym and wide surrounding area.

Residents say ending free parking will punish people attending the GP surgery, churches and other activities nearby and could “kill” the high street.

Bristol City Council intends to bring in £1-an-hour fees seven days a week at Westbury Hill and nine other district car parks in Bristol, making them all pay and display.

Dozens of people submitted objections to two council meetings and a further attempt to have the plan dropped was being made at the full council meeting on February 21, after the Voice went to print.

The ruling cabinet made the decision on January 24 to go ahead with the charges. At that meeting, 53 people sent in statements on the Westbury plan alone, with some claiming the plan was discriminatory and others asking for a half-hour free stay and no fees on Sundays.

The three ward councillors, Geoff Gollop, Sharon Scott and Steve Smith, submitted a statement that said it seemed unreasonable and unfair to forced patients, many of whom were older and unwell, to pay to visit the surgery.

Mayor Marvin Rees said there would be time before the scheme was implemented for discussions with residents about the details.

At a budget scrutiny meeting on February 2, cross-party

councillors backed calls for the idea to be scrapped or scaled back.

Conservative group leader and Henbury & Brentry ward Cllr Mark Weston said:

“This is a disastrous move, it’s not going to work and it’s just going to harm communities. It’s a really bad idea,” he said.

Stoke Bishop ward Tory Cllr John Goulandris said medical patients also needed to park at Waverley Road in Shirehampton, where fees are also being introduced.

He said: “We will be hitting people who are sick.

“The shopping centre in Westbury is under a huge amount of pressure. These parking charges could have a devastating impact on the shops and could kill our suburban shopping centres which are suffering already.”

He said the amount that the council expected to earn from the charges was a “drop in the ocean” totalling just £150,000 a year.

Southmead ward Labour Cllr Brenda Massey said: “I suggest we pause and review the proposals where there is strong public opposition. It's really important that we listen to and work with the community."

Cllr Gollop said bank customers from across north Bristol visited Westbury because it was the last remaining place with branches.

He said “The ward has the oldest age profile in the city, residents going to the doctor’s surgery are not usually as well

as they would like to be, they have no place to park – we are effectively taxing them for being ill.”

Labour cabinet member for transport Cllr Don Alexander said: “We will retain blue badge parking spaces for free in every car park, including these.

“Underlying this is the fact we have to raise money and

if we don’t raise money from this, we will have to find it from somewhere else to keep these car parks maintained.”

The traffic regulation order required for the new charges includes consultation, which he said was the time to discuss the detail.

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Final visit as St Christopher's site redevelopment decision day looms

COUNCILLORS are due to see for themselves the site of a controversial retirement village in Westbury Park, before making a decision on the proposal.

Members of Bristol City Council Development Control Committee will tour the five acre site at the former St Christopher’s School this month.

The committee’s chair, Councillor Richard Eddy, told the Voice the £85m scheme will then go to a committee meeting on either March 15 or April. 26.

The site visit will be conducted by the developers - investment firm FORE, in partnership with developer Socius, and care provider Amicala. They want to build 116 retirement flats.

Local campaign groups will not be allowed to attend to voice objections.

Bristol city councillor for Westbury on Trym and Henleaze

Geoff Gollop told the Voice this was normal procedure for such visits.

He said he’s never seen a planning application in Bristol that has attracted so much local concern.

He said: “This is the biggest planning application we’ve ever see in this ward, and we do want to see the site redeveloped, but our biggest concern is transport and access to the area.

“It is congested already and has narrow roads with heavy parking. The scale of this proposal and little onsite parking in this plan will cause more congestion.”

The imminent decision comes as a row has broken out between opponents and developers over new artist impressions of the proposed buildings, published by local campaign group St Christopher Action Network (SCAN).

SCAN says the images show the site before and after development and “were created on architectural software using the measurements provided by the developers in the plans".

Members have condemned the planned new buildings as “giant apartment blocks… an

Dispute over how blocks of retirement flats could look

absolutely shocking sight”.

Spokesman Robin Hambleton said: “The developers have spent over a year not showing images like this as they want to disguise the true impact of their appalling scheme.”

The developers dispute the accuracy of the images.

A spokesperson said: “This interpretation of the scheme is unverified and factually inaccurate.

“There are several points of difference between the actual proposals for the site and what has been conveyed in SCAN’s visuals. Namely, discrepancies in boundary positioning, building proximity and most significantly, the heights of the properties.”

More than 1300 objections have been registered on Bristol City Council’s planning portal, including the size and scale of the proposed new apartment blocks, and the lack of Special Educational Needs provision.

The old St Christopher’s independent school provided for special needs until it closed in

2020.

The developers say the proposal meets local housing needs for an aging population and will include a café and community hall which will benefit local people.

Westbury Park Community Association submitted a ten page response to the latest plans, saying they supported the idea for extra care provision but felt the plan damaged the character of the area and objected to the height of some new buildings and the way they were “crammed inappropriately” together.

Committee chair Councillor Richard Eddy told the Voice:

“At present, the Development Control ‘A’ Committee is expecting to determine the St Christopher’s School site in early Spring, most probably in late April. However, at present, there is a small chance it could be referred to our DC ‘A’ Committee meeting on 15th March 2023

“A Members’ site-visit has been arranged, which will inform councillors in advance of our

decision-making meeting. If residents have views on this planning application, I urge them to submit their opinions to: democratic.services@bristol. gov.uk.”

Mark Ashford from SCAN said: “Despite all the glossy brochures and press releases sent out by the developers over the last year, we felt we still hadn’t been given a clear sense of what these giant apartment blocks would actually look like. And now we have it! Even after the so-called “revisions”, it’s an absolutely shocking sight - right on the edge of the Downs and slap-bang in the middle of a conservation area. How on earth can this be allowed to happen?”

Phil Gittins, also a member of the group, said: “The new images show how little the developers have listened to the community. Their proposed development is still way too large for the site, cramming in as many units as they can, with no thought for the consequences. It will ruin the current green space, home to so much wildlife and ignores the views and needs of the local community. That’s why so many of us have objected to these amended plans and hope our voice is heard by the council.”

Artist impressions of the proposed new buildings produced by opponents are disputed by the developers

Generations of storytelling

RESIDENTS at a care home have been reading stories to children as part of National Storytelling Week.

The residents from Care UK’s Trymview Hall, on Southmead Road, visited children from Lake House Day Nursery for a reading of the well-known story, Jack and the Beanstalk.

Care UK has created a nationwide initiative that sees people from its homes read classic bedtime stories to children. The campaign, which includes the launch of four free videos of residents reading stories, ensures children who may not have a grandparent do not miss out on a magical tale before bedtime.

One of those taking part was Jean Poeton, 95, who said: “I loved reading and acting out the characters to the children – it was wonderful to see their faces as the story came alive!”

Nicola Wolff-Donitz, customer relations manager at Trymview Hall, said: “We were delighted to visit Lake House Day Nursery to read stories to the children. Intergenerational activities are incredibly enriching for all ages and provide a fantastic opportunity for residents and children to interact with one another. The youngsters

'Reverse Beeching'

PLANS for two new stations in north Bristol have made significant progress in the first months of 2023.

The new North Filton station, which will serve the 6000 homes and the arena being built on the former Filton Airfield, has been given planning permission after South Gloucestershire Council fast-tracked the project. It is due for completion by 2026.

were able to soak up a wonderful story and the residents benefited from gaining a different perspective from the children on a traditional story. It’s fantastic to host a session such as this to allow the two generations to spend time with one another.

“We would like to thank Lake House Day Nursery for making us feel so welcome. "

Meanwhile, funding has been secured for the Ashley Down station and work is due to begin soon.

Dan Norris, West of England Combined Authority Metro Mayor, said: “The last time Bristolians could get a Ticket to Ride here, the Beatles were storming the charts. 60 years on, our ‘reverse Beeching’ programme is going full steam ahead."

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Trymview Hall residents on their visit to Lake House Day Nursery

'Beyond stupid': £1.95m parks plan

PROPOSED cuts to Bristol’s parks budget were dropped before the city council finalised its budget plans.

The U-turn followed an outcry from campaigners who called for investment in the city’s parks and open spaces. Bristol Parks Forum, which includes groups such as the Friends of St Andrew's Park and Friends of Badock's Wood, made a robust response to the consultation, which appears to have been heeded.

Now councillors are hopeful of a £1.95m programme that will include improvements such as new or upgraded playparks, better paths and accessibility, a café, and new and refurbished public toilets. Blaise Estate and Oldbury Court Estate are among those set to benefit, as well as some smaller parks.

Cabinet Councillor Ellie King said final plans would be unveiled soon and she stressed that the council’s aim was for everyone to have a good quality park or greenspace within walking distance of their home.

She urged anyone who would like to see investment in their local park to contact their local councillor.

Councillor King said: “Bristol has an amazing variety of parks. Research found that we have the third greenest city centre in the UK – with more tree cover, parks, and vegetation than almost anywhere else – and that we have two of the top ten green spaces in the country for ‘welfare value’, in Ashton Court and Blaise.

“But we know our parks can be even better. I look forward to hearing local residents’ and community groups’ views on our proposals.”

A TRANSPORT campaigner says two councils need their heads banging together – after a row over funding means some buses will no longer cross borders from North Bristol into South Gloucestershire.

Dave Redgewell says the consequences are “a bitter blow for the economy of North Bristol” - and a huge problem for residents of Westbury on Trym and Henleaze – cutting them off from Bristol Parkway station and employment centres in Filton and Abbeywood.

Bus services across the region, which are co-ordinated by the West of England Combined Authority (Weca), have been hard hit by falling passenger numbers since Covid, severe driver shortages and increased costs. Hard-pressed councils have reduced their subsidies for unprofitable routes, which has led Weca, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, to announce that

dozens of services will be axed completely from April 1.

Now it’s emerged that a row between Bristol City and South Gloucestershire councils means two services between the areas will be curtailed.

The Stagecoach number 10 and 11 services both currently travel through Westbury-on Trym, connecting Avonmouth, Shirehampton and Coombe Dingle to locations including Southmead Hospital, UWE Bristol, Abbeywood, Filton, Aztec West, and Parkway.

Bristol City Council has agreed to subsidise the buses within the city boundaries, but no further. South Gloucestershire has voted not to fund the bus routes.

So from the beginning of April both services will stop at Southmead Hospital, and turn back.

Dave Redgewell said: “These are very important social

bus link chopped in border row

Services from Westbury-on-Trym will turn around at hospital

economic bus services which are not commercially viable, but require subsidy from the West of England Combined Authority, through funding by the local councils.

“I thought Bristol would do something sensible instead of only running the buses to Southmead, I thought they would at least extend them to Parkway. It’s pretty devastating really.”

City councillor for Westbury on Trym and Henleaze Geoff Gollop said this showed that Weca was “dysfunctional” –and the result would be “big problems” for passengers.

“The Metro Mayor and the local authority leaders should have been discussing this

potential crisis for months and attempting to find a solution. Instead, these devastating proposals are being put forward by the Metro Mayor.”

He appealed to residents: “If this affects you by cutting off your access to work or family, please make contact as we need examples to share with council leaders who seem unaware of the seriousness of the situation.

“It is beyond stupid, that at a time when the council is rightly wanting to reduce car usage and pollution, that Weca removes support for these critical services, forcing passengers to consider car travel.”

Metro Mayor Mr Norris told the Voice: “Bus funding

is a complicated jigsaw. Unfortunately local councils decided to reduce spending on council-subsidised buses via the transport levy. That’s why these services have been cut. It is a simple equation - less cash means fewer buses. I note some councils have now decided to extend some buses until just after local elections in May.”

A spokesman for South Gloucestershire Council told the Voice the authority had increased its funding for buses through Weca, but contract prices had more than doubled.

: “Given the critical nature of these supported bus services, the council has been working alongside Weca to mitigate the impacts of service reductions. South Gloucestershire Council have also provided Weca with an additional £435,000 over the last two years to retain these vital services," they said.

“South Gloucestershire Council proposed an amendment to the Weca budget last month to divert £800,000 in their spending to support more local bus routes and we look forward to the outcome of their urgent review into how this money can be spent to ensure that local people can continue to rely on local bus services to help them get to work, hospital appointments and to travel around the area.”

Leader of South Gloucestershire Liberal Democrats Claire Young told the Voice “conflicting information” about the service funding was unsettling for passengers.

She said: “Local bus users aren’t interested in arguments about who funds the services, they just want those services to run – and not only until the elections are out of the way in May. "

S hop brings in £635k in 15 years

A WESTBURY Park shop is celebrating its 15th anniversary –having raised over £635,000 for a local charity.

The St Peter’s Hospice store opened on North View on March 2nd, 2008. Since then, the profits of the shop have been funding care for people in Bristol who are living with a life-limiting illness.

Harriet has been working at the shop for nine of those years, working her way up from being a volunteer to her current role as Store Manager. She’s supported by a team of 30 volunteers, many of whom work part-time or fill in when staff take a holiday.

To celebrate the anniversary with the local community Harriet and the team have created a stunning Springtime birthday theme across both windows. It’s

taken an effort from staff and volunteers who’ve been busy crocheting and painting back drops.

Harriet says: “We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for our volunteers and I’m proud to work with them all. As well as sorting the stock, many of our volunteers have specialist knowledge of the interesting items that are donated to us. We received a Regency ring recently which has been sent to auction and I have a lady who researches the silver for us. People know that we sell to the auction houses and eBay and trust us to get the best price for their donations.

“North View is a good street to work on – all the traders look out for each other here. The local residents are great supporters and I’m constantly

surprised by how generous people are.

"Our donations reached our biggest week ever recently and the shop has become a destination.”

Care at St Peter’s Hospice

Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants

costs around £25,650 a day. Every item donated to the Hospice shops helps to fund that care for patients while extending support to their families and loved ones.

Your opinions help us make decisions!

If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and make suggestions about improvements. For March 2023, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and find out about our rapid repairs response service, which we’ve been piloting across the city over the last 12 months. The team has been carrying out repairs to high and low-rise blocks of flats to improve the look and feel in and around communal areas.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email  tpu@bristol.gov.uk

BRISTOL City Council is hoping to spend £3.3 million on fitting about 200 heat pumps in larger houses in Westbury-on-Trym.

The two-year project would see wealthier homeowners given cash and support to replace their gas boilers, cutting their carbon emissions and energy bills.

The council chose Westburyon-Trym for the project as people there tend to be richer, live in larger houses, and use more energy than average Bristolians. The project will focus on training and building up a local supply chain, eventually installing heat pumps across Bristol.

Replacing gas boilers in homes with heat pumps is considered important because natural gas is a fossil fuel, which emits greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change. The cabinet heard on Tuesday, February 7 that the council has bid for government funding.

Labour Councillor Kye Dudd, cabinet member for climate, said: “Westbury-on-Trym is outside any future heat network zones, it’s an area where a proportion

Council aims to install heat pumps in 200 larger homes

are likely to be able to make a significant contribution to the cost of a heat pump, it’s larger housing so there’s space for heat pumps, and there’s higher energy use than average so the carbon savings are higher.

“There’s also an active community group that’s already engaged in the area, to sort of warm up the people. We’re hoping to take lessons on how this is rolled out in Westburyon-Trym, so we can roll it out across the city at a future stage. An important element to this is to build trust in heat pump technology, to increase the takeup across the city.”

If the council is successful in getting government funding for the project, then homeowners would be given a £5,000 grant to go towards a heat pump,

but would have to pay the rest of the cost themselves, which would probably mean a few more thousand pounds. They would also receive support with installation, and customer care after heat pumps had been fitted.

Speaking after the meeting, Green Cllr Carla Denyer said: “The Greens brought a successful budget amendment in 2020 to train council staff in fitting heat pumps and other sustainable technologies like solar panels and battery storage in housing. Last month the council applied for funding to help put this into practice and upgrade our social housing to reduce people’s energy bills and carbon emissions.

“Heat pumps are a fantastic solution to provide low carbon heating, but they do need to be

installed carefully by heat pump specialists, with follow-up visits to make sure they’re properly calibrated. So Bristol needs a strong local workforce with experience and training in this rapidly growing section of the green economy — there are lots of good quality green jobs to be had, creating warmer and more comfortable homes and helping to prevent climate change.”

Mayor Marvin Rees said he was due to talk to American diplomats about the importance of a “just transition” with climate change — the idea that poorer people in society should not be left behind or negatively affected by programmes and policies which aim to reduce emissions.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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The Spring Specialist Sale is now onlineThursday 9th March at 10:30am

To browse and bid visit: www.clevedonsalerooms.com

25 years of nourishing and flourishing

HUNDREDS of people braved ankle deep mud and icy winds to Wassail Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) on January 14.

The HOCO wassail involved traditional elements such as dipping branches in cider, offering toast and honey to the guardian spirits of the orchard, and making noise to wake up the trees from their slumbers. As well as the activities and entertainment, there was plenty of mulled juice and homemade cake for sale.

‘Waes hail’ is an Anglo Saxon greeting meaning good health or good fortune.

It has been 25 years since HOCO took root on some abandoned plots on the margins of the Golden Hill allotment site and it will be celebrating its silver anniversary in May.

Since 1998, volunteer members have looked after nearly a hundred fruiting trees

and during this time HOCO has also developed as a place of learning and experiment for a resilient future.

HOCO learning coordinator

Shannon Smith said: “We know that trees help us by mopping up carbon and cooling the air when

it’s hot. Do we remember that trees in cities need our help too?

“Planting and caring for fruit trees reconnects us with a beautiful relationship between humans and orchard trees. It’s a bond that is many thousands of years old. As with any

relationship – understanding, knowledge and good skills ensure nourishing and flourishing.”

HOCO is open to new Harvest-share members this year. Active members are partnered with a Tree Buddy (usually an apple tree), and get involved with organising working meetings and events.

Ms Smith continued: “The call to plant more trees rings loud and true. If every garden in Bristol grew one or two fruit trees – our city would be transformed into a large urban orchard. Some of us are lucky to have older fruit trees in our garden or allotment – but we may not be sure how best to care for them.”

More information about membership and courses on the HOCO website: www. community-orchard.org.uk Contact: hocopips@gmail.com or phone 0117 373 1587

Your 'Green Gym' in Westbury Park

IF you love being out of doors and have some energy to spare, why not try out our community orchard for some great exercise?

Orchard members meet on two Sundays in each month and work together to tend the trees and to harvest the fruit. Our main fruits are apples, pears and plums, but we grow soft fruit as well (berries and currants). Working together generally means the chance for a sociable lunch with people who support an organic approach to growing food.

The orchard team is looking for new members who can attend pretty regularly, so that they can put in a minimum of 16 hours per year. And, because our orchard is on a sloping site, just off Metford Road, you will definitely get a bit of exercise!

It doesn’t matter at all if you

don’t know much about working with fruit, as there is always someone around on those Sunday sessions who will be able to give you some advice. You can learn how to mulch the trees and bushes to conserve the winter rains, to prune them in winter, and to thin the fruit in summer.

Managing the undergrowth, turning compost and repairing steps are other jobs which keep us fit.

The orchard is lovely with its spring blossom and truly beautiful with its autumn harvest. We try to create habitats for wildlife as well, so we keep a few woodpiles and we lay the hedges to create dense growth for birds to nest in.

If this sounds like an activity you would enjoy, please read more on our website (http://mrco. wikidot.com/) and get in touch

with our membership secretary, Richard, right away (mrcobristolmembership@yahoo.co.uk).

Richard can arrange for you to

come to a session and to see how you like it. We would love to meet you!

Janet Brewer

Building a terrace, above, and hedge laying, left, are two of the activities for volunteers at the community orchard

'Party house' saga takes a new twist

THE owners of an Airbnb “party house” driving neighbours crazy have promised to end its current use and halve the maximum number of occupants.

But the saga of the property in a quiet Henleaze street took another twist when it emerged the couple have also appealed to the Planning Inspectorate against Bristol City Council’s failure to make a decision in time over external alterations after it was built differently to the permission granted.

“Frustrated” councillors have now refused to back down and, although they no longer have the final say, voted unanimously to fight the appeal on the grounds that they would have rejected the application.

The row erupted after landlords Hassan and Maryam Khaleghi built a five-bedroom house at 30 Hobhouse Close for up to 10 people to stay in via Airbnb when it only had consent as either a two-bedroom family home or a house in multiple occupation (HMO) for no more than five tenants.

Neighbours said their lives had been made a misery and accused the pair of “devious” tactics by creating a “revolving door” of unwanted guests drinking, fighting, shouting and playing loud music late at night.

But the owners insisted at a meeting of

the council’s development control committee in December that it was never their intention for the building to be an Airbnb and that they were locked into a contract with a letting agent.

At the time, councillors deferred a decision on retrospective planning permission for minor external alterations to bring the property into line with the consent granted on appeal in August 2020, which followed the local authority’s refusal.

Officers had recommended giving the go-ahead because the proposed changes were deemed acceptable. They said neighbours’ complaints about its use fell outside planning considerations and were the subject of an ongoing investigation by the council’s enforcement team into whether more people were staying there than allowed under the HMO licence. Officers said that although the house had been divided up into five double bedrooms and advertised on Airbnb for up to 10 people, internal changes did not require planning consent.

The application returned to committee on January 18, where Mr Khalegi said in a statement: “Since the last meeting, we have negotiated with our current tenant and they have agreed to vacate the property by

February 14. The property will be let as a fivebedroom, maximum five-occupant HMO on a 12-month tenancy agreement from then on.”

A report to members said: “On January 11 officers received confirmation from the applicant that they would be bringing the unauthorised use to an end.

“The planning enforcement team will inspect the use of the property soon after that date and the planning enforcement case will remain open until after the unauthorised use has ceased and the planning appeal has been decided. Officers maintain that the development is acceptable only subject to the planning conditions and that needs to be the basis of the case we put forward in respect of the appeal.”

But despite the owners’ promise and officers still recommending approval, members voted 8-0 that they would have refused permission had they still had the power to do so, to applause from the public gallery in the City Hall council chamber. Committee chair Cllr Ani Stafford-Townsend said: “This is a case of repeated failures to comply with permissions. I take a very dim view of this, as I’m sure all my colleagues do.”

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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March to the match!

LOCAL charity, St Peter’s Hospice, has teamed up with the Bristol Bears for a rugby game that makes a difference to patients and families in Bristol when they need it most.

The Rugby March takes place on Sunday 12 March, starting with a sixmile sponsored walk from 11.30am that’ll get you pumped and ready for a thrilling Bristol Bears v Harlequins live match at 3pm.

One team stepping up in honour of their friend is ‘Steve’s Buddies’ (pictured above). They said: “We sadly lost Steve a few days after taking part in The Rugby March in 2020. Steve was so honoured we all took part in his name as ‘Steve’s Buddies’.

“Steve was a gentle soul with a big heart. We take part in The Rugby March because Steve said what a wonderful place the Hospice was. He said the people there were like angels.

“We are all Steve’s friends, and this is our way of thanking St Peter’s To find out more, see: www.rugbymarch.co.uk

Park set to reopen

WESTBURY Wildlife Park reopens this month and is planning a programme of seasonal events.

The park, which has a coffee shop, gift shop and playground, will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10m to 4pm, starting from March 24.

Organisers promise a programme of free fundraising days, with free entry, activities and events for the whole family aw well as ticketed talks and themed activities.

Westbury Wildlife Park Foundation is seeking more volunteers, for café, gift shop and welcome roles. Details can be found at these links https://candobristol.co.uk/activity/cafe-volunteer and https:// candobristol.co.uk/activity/gift-shop-volunteer. Training will be provided.

The Carpet Shop

Some things can’t be rushed: overhauling laws is one of them

WITH spring just around the corner, don’t the days just feel like they fly by? There’s always so much to do, and so few hours in the day. Imagine how the Government feels then, with about 4,000 EU laws that were retained after Brexit that now need to either be replaced or reinstated in UK law by the end of the year, or else most of them will be scrapped!

This is, of course, a problem of the Government’s own making, having set – and stuck with – this arbitrary deadline.

Hundreds of constituents have written to me since the start of the year to share their dismay that the Government is pushing forward with this proposed legislature –the ‘Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill’ – and the cliffedge deadline of the end of 2023, which is known as the ‘sunset clause’.

Let me be frank: it’s a silly Bill. These laws include a lot of important protections: from food safety to employment rights and safeguarding the environment. I think we can all agree we’d quite like to keep these things.

Sadly, there’s nothing I can do to stop the Bill. I voted against it, and I voted for many amendments to try to improve it, but the Government got it through the Commons easily because of the Conservative majority in the House. However, given how much interest and confusion there is on this issue, I have decided to run a special Facebook Live Q&A to answer all your questions about the Bill on Tuesday 28th March, 7:30-8:00pm. There’s no need to book – just head to my Facebook page (fb.com/darrenjonesmp) at the allotted time to take part in the event.

Moving on to local matters, Bristol City Council has had to pass a difficult budget this month. Once again, the council grant from Westminster to Bristol does

not cover the rising costs of pay, energy and service delivery. Because of that, we’ve seen another increase in council tax –not just to pay for council services, but to pay for social care, police and fire services, too.

It has also meant that the Council has had to raise money in other ways, including by expanding car parking charges to council-owned car parks that are currently free. This means the car park by the Westbury-on-Trym GP surgery in the centre of the village will see parking charges introduced from the autumn. I understand these new charges will be £1 an hour, unless you’re a Blue Badge holder.

This is something else I don’t want to see happen, and I tried to stop it from being introduced. But the perhaps understandable response that I got from the Council was this: what cut would you like to make elsewhere? Libraries? The parks maintenance budget?

Looking ahead to what else can be done, I have written to the Council to request that a review is undertaken in a year's time to assess any negative impacts caused by introducing the charges and to consider whether the decision should then be reversed.

In other transport news, I met with Doug Claringbold, the Managing Director of First Bus in the West of England, in late January. In the meeting, I quizzed him on the problem of ‘ghost buses’; demanded to know if Bristol North West has drawn the short straw in being handed the fleet’s oldest buses; raised constituents’ concerns about unfair bus fares; and asked him if franchising buses is the answer. If you’d like to watch the interview, you can find an 8-minute highlights video pinned to the featured content on my Facebook page.

One of the key outcomes from

the meeting was an assurance that we’ll see improvements to the reliability and punctuality of our bus services from April. Doug put this down to the success of the driver recruitment campaign, meaning the services that were cut in November could be reintroduced in April, and because First Bus is introducing new technology that will enable them to better timetable services. It sounds promising. But, before I toot my horn in celebration, I want to put this claim to the test. On 1st March, I’m launching a campaign in which I’m asking constituents to log expected and actual bus arrival times for journeys starting from bus stops in Bristol North West. Let’s see if the data shows things can only get better from April onwards! Please help spread the word and start logging your

journeys at www.darren-jones. co.uk/bus

As always, if you need my help or have a question, you can get in touch with me on e-mail at darren.jones.mp@parliament. uk, by calling my office on 0117 959 6545 or by writing to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

Darren Jones writes for the

Westbury on Trym Village Show

ONE of the highlights of the year in our community, the Westbury on Trym Village Show, will be returning to the Village Hall and gardens on Saturday 2nd September 2023. The names of many of the classes will be inspired by this year’s theme of ‘Harvest Time’. There will be plenty of opportunities for growers, crafters, gardeners, cooks and photographers of all ages to showcase their talents and interests. Money raised goes towards the support and maintenance of the Hall.

We are delighted that this year we will be linking with Family Food Action, which is a community-based charity working with five local community-based partners (St Paul’s Children’s Centre, Southmead Children’s Centre, May Park Primary School, The Vench in Lockleaze and Felix Road Adventure Playground) to support local families experiencing food poverty. The Ardagh on Horfield Common is a collecting and sorting hub for donations of food from residents and businesses in the North Bristol area. Volunteers sort, allocate and deliver food to the above partners who then ensure that families who need it most receive support. There will be an opportunity for visitors to the show to make donations this vital work.

Bookings for stalls and attractions are being taken. The ever-popular Marshfield Brass Band, which adds to the traditional village show atmosphere, has already been booked.

The show schedule will be published at the end of April and will be available in local shops, businesses and the WOT Library.

Remember to add 2nd September to your diaries and calendars. It is always a lovely way to end the summer and to look forward to autumn. If you would like to help to organise the show the committee would be delighted to hear from you and may be contacted via the website

Further information, including the Stallholders’ Application Form may be found on the show’s Facebook Page and website (wotvs.co.uk).

Carole Thorpe (WOT Village Show Chairman)

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

150 years of the chocolate Easter egg

WHAT’S your favourite chocolate treat? A Mars Bar? A KitKat? An Aero, or perhaps a Fry’s Chocolate Mint Creme?

As winter turns to spring, it’s not just budding daffodils that are appearing. No, it’s Easter eggs showing up in all good West of England shops, too!

I love seeing Easter eggs displayed every year, because we live in the place where the hollow chocolate egg was invented.

And this year there’s an eggs-tra reason to celebrate - because it was exactly 150 years ago that it happened.

When I nipped to the local shops on my travels last week and got chatting to staff busy putting a huge range of eggs on shelves, I told them that Fry’s chocolate makers - who started out in Bristol but later moved their factory to Somerdale, Keynsham, having merged with Cadbury - came up with the idea of the hollow chocolate egg.

The Fry family’s innovation was to

make chocolate by mixing cocoa fat with cocoa powder and sugar. This made a super-smooth paste, which could be poured into egg moulds.

These new eggs were just as tasty but lighter than solid continental eggs, which made them easier to afford.

People couldn’t get enough of these new egg-shaped chocolate treats, and it wasn’t long before they were selling all over the world.

I love it when something that starts out as a new idea in our great region goes global - now as well as back in 1873. It’s a tradition we need to keep going!

In acknowledging our local history of chocolate manufacturing in the 18th and 19th centuries, we also need to recognise its ugly side, for sugar and cocoa grown on Caribbean plantations exploited and abused people of African descent, who were forced into slave labour.

While it is true that Quakers in the UK, like the Fry and Cadbury families, helped

lead the anti-slavery movement, it is also correct to say that not every Quaker held this view, particularly in America.

Despite the closure of the Fry’s/ Cadbury factory at Keynsham just over a decade ago, our region is today home to many, many independent chocolate makers - using creative talent and ethical practices including Fairtrade chocolate.

The commitment from chocolate companies to learn from the past actions, both good and bad, of their predecessors is encouraging and very important.

Flexible working to fit around you and your commitments.

A commitment to your development and wellbeing – receive training and support to equip you with the skills you need to succeed.

Access to a range of full NHS benefits

(including generous holiday allowance and pension).

We’re here to support you - Health and wellbeing for our colleagues is at the forefront of everything we do.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice

YOUR

NEEDS YOU!

FRIENDS OF HENLEAZE LIBRARY are seeking new members.

They invite you to a Getting to Know You event on SATURDAY MARCH 18

10am - noon

Meet the current FOHL committee and hear about how you can get involved. In the past the group has run and supported a range of events, including talks, activities for children and, most recently, The Happy Place writing project. Now it’s your chance to decide what they do next and how to use their funds to support and enhance the library’s activities and resources.

n BOOK REVIEW

Still Water

by Rebecca Pert

Still Water is psychological fiction and is Rebecca Pert’s debut novel.

Jane Douglas has returned to live on Unst in the Shetland Islands from her family home in Devon after experiencing various tragedies during her childhood. Jane is working in a salmon fishery, living in a caravan in the grounds of an old family friend and has just started to find happiness and stability with a local trawlerman, Mike. Her life seems to be ticking along nicely, although demons from her past life continue to haunt her.

Her equilibrium is disrupted when she is contacted by the police regarding the discovery of a prosthetic arm in an old quarry, which they believe belonged to her long missing mother and Jane feels shell shocked. She finds an old tin from her

mother’s house and goes on to open it and discovers some hidden diaries inside. As she opens the diaries and starts to read, memories of the unhappy relationship between herself and her mother surface. The full story of her childhood, the truth of the sad demise of her mother and her mother’s reliance on medication and her subsequent unhappiness and despair, resulting from post-natal depression, starts to become clear.

This is an atmospheric, richly told tale, with evocative descriptions of the windswept

bleak landscape of the Shetland Islands, which serves to underlie the blackness of the tale that Jane is unfolding. It is sensitively written, touching on some difficult subject matters, but leaving the reader with light at the end of the tunnel!

I enjoyed reading this novel and look forward to more titles from this writer.

Henleaze Library 0117 9038541

Mondays 11am-5pm

Tuesdays 11am-5pm

Wednesdays 1pm – 7pm

Thursdays 11am - 5pm

Fridays 1pm – 7pm

Saturdays 10am to 5pm

Westbury Library (Staffed) 0117 9038552

Mondays 2pm – 7pm

Tuesdays 11am – 4pm

Wednesdays 11am – 4pm

Thursdays 11am – 4pm

Fridays 11am – 4pm

Saturdays 11am – 4pm

Our friendly legal experts are always on hand to provide practical, common sense advice at a fair price.

If you’re looking for help with any of the services here, we’re the people to talk to.

WESTBURY LIBRARY GROUP AGM AND BOOK TALK

THE Westbury Library Group was formed in 2017 to help coordinate opposition to library closures and then, when the immediate danger had been removed, to support and develop the role of the library within the community

We run Coffee Mornings in the library on the last Saturday of each month and worked with SusWoT to create a small Community Garden at the side of the building. We have also used funding from the Library Service to purchase foldable chairs and a secure outside store, so that the library can be used to host community events, such as the quarterly Westbury Forum, for up to 50 people.

Our AGM will take place in the library on Thursday March 16th, starting at 7:30pm. The business part of the meeting should take about half an hour or so, followed by discussion of future plans, and then there will a talk by Ivan Brown about his recent book ‘Night Will Pass…The Sun Will Rise’ . To quote

the back cover, “A novel based on the true story of a Polish officer who survived Katyn, the KGB, WW2 and his Yorkshire in-laws”. Ivan’s talk will describe the research involved, the places he visited and the discoveries he made along the way. The book is available through Amazon, but Ivan will have copies with him on the night.

Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting. It would be helpful, though not essential, if you could let me know by email or telephone, so that we can estimate numbers for seating and light refreshments. The group maintains a mailing list to provide updates on library activities; if you would like to be added to it, please email westburylibrarygroup@gmail.com or ring me on 0117 9502825. You can find further information about the group on our website www. westburylibrarygroup.org

Malcolm Neave

Really wild! Katy’s adventures are an inspiration

ADVENTURER Katy Parrott, a former Redmaid, inspired junior school pupils at Redmaids’ High with her tales of survival and exploration.

Katy, who took part in TV’s Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week, launched a day of learning about explorers by describing her travels around the world and activities such as mountaineering and Ironman triathlons.

She encouraged the girls to explore not only different places, by taking the opportunity to travel and experience different countries, but also to explore themselves –testing their limits, trying new things, and pursuing the things that excite them.

The pupils were bursting with enthusiasm and asked lots of questions, ranging from What’s the most poisonous animal you’ve come across? and How did you manage to lose all your toe nails?, to the very pragmatic question of How do you make a living from being an explorer? She encouraged the girls to get out of their comfort zone and take advantage of extraordinary and unexpected opportunities, that might come their way.

Katy’s visit was part of the school’s first ‘Wow day’ of the year, where they learned about explorers through a series of fun challenges including orienteering, taking blindfolded directions, learning about French

and English compass points, and planning their own expeditions.

The final challenge of the day ended with pupils taking part in a fun-filled ‘Staff adventures’ quiz where they were asked to try and match the type of real-life adventure with the member of staff. To the surprise and delight of the pupils, adventures ranged from

completing a two-day mountain marathon in the Lake District, sea kayaking and camping in Sweden, to taking a helicopter to the top of a glacier and snowboarding down it!

A spokeswoman said: “It was a hugely successful and enjoyable day for pupils and staff alike, made even more special by Katy’s visit.”

As the damage to nature becomes more visible, saving wildlife has never been more important.

Our plans for a new Bristol Zoo at our 136 acre Wild Place Project site, just 20 minutes from the centre of Bristol, will set the standard for a forward-looking zoo. Home to some of the world’s most threatened species, living in spaces that better reflect their natural habitats, our new zoo will reflect the vital conservation work we do around the world.

We’re a conservation charity and every penny we raise will support our missionWe’re saving wildlife together with the people of Bristol.

Be home to some of the world’s most threatened species

We direct 14 field conservation projects with 31 local partner organisations that conserve and protect some of the world’s most threatened species.

Inspire current and future generations to value and protect wildlife

In 2023 we will engage over 15,000 children through our education sessions. By 2035, we aim to inspire over 90,000 school children and teach 600 higher education students per year.

“I became a trustee of Bristol Zoological Society because I believe its new direction will help tackle the extinction crisis. By focusing on animals that are most in need of conservation, moving to the larger Wild Place Project site, and taking the difficult decision to close Bristol Zoo Gardens, the charity is doing the right thing. It is focusing on how best to save wildlife together – now and into the future.”

Jane Smart, Director of the Global Species Programme International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

n NEWS FROM S us WoT

Otters, water voles and mental health

THE river Trym and the Hazel Brook are wildlife corridors running through north west Bristol. As well as tinkling water, birdsong, and beautiful trees the Trym is home to brown trout and other small fish which feed on freshwater shrimps, olive mayflies and caddis flies living in the river. Look hard and you may spot these – or even one of the resident kingfishers.

We’re lucky to have these streams on our doorstep particularly as back in the 1990s researchers found that a walk in nature (as opposed to an urban landscape) improved people’s ability to concentrate, feelings of wellbeing and even in blood pressure. Experts now suggest relaxing by a stream or in a wood, experiencing the noises, scenery and wildlife can make a real difference to mental and physical health.

Even better, a few years ago local volunteers with Sustainable Westbury on Trym, Sustainable Southmead, Friends of Badock’s Wood and several other voluntary groups started work, under the Trout in the Trym banner, to clean-up these streams. More than 100 tonnes of rubbish has been removed so

far. Volunteers have also reported pollution to Wessex Water (they do come out and clean up) and done other work to boost nature. The streams are looking much better. Further details via Trout in the Trym website and Facebook pages.

After bad PR about sewage in rivers in the last 18 months the Government and water companies are beginning to listen to calls to take care of the environment. The industry is in the thick of planning for 2025-2030 and Wessex Water (our sewage company) is working out its priorities. A consultation on their plans is taking place on Thursday 2 March (2.30pm - 6.30pm, Bristol Central Library, Deanery Road, Bristol, BS1 5TL, Public Meeting Room). Do let them know your thoughts thenor write to tell them.

Recently some residents have reported otters and water voles in the Trym. A professional survey, funded by the Bristol Avon Catchment Partnership, will happen this summer to investigate. No longer persecuted, otters are making a comeback including in Bristol’s rivers. However, water voles (Ratty from Wind in the Willows, short hairy tail, small ears, very cute) remain threatened. Having them in the Trym would be great news.

This spring a trip along a path by the Trym or Hazel Brook will be lovely with lots of nature to experience in an improving setting. It will even be good for you! Meanwhile if you see a water vole or otter (or other wildlife) let Trout in the Trym know – they’d love to hear from you.

Peter Colman-Smith

Volunteers, left, and a trout from the Trym

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

James Scrimshaw of CUR A CLINIC AL explains how new technologies are providing ef fec tive answers to people’s pain and suf fering

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

MBST : Hip & knee arthritis

MBST Cell regeneration: What is MBST?

James Scrimshaw of CUR A CLINIC AL explains how new technologies are providing ef fec tive answers to people’s pain and suf fering

Construction of MRI and MBST devices

I’ve also just discharged Kate 5 months following treatment for her arthritic knees (she’d already had a half knee replaced). She’s now pain free… I anticipate these results will last a number of years.

She’s now pain free… I anticipate these results will last a number of years.

death and cell reproduction.

- Optimising cell oxygen levels

- Improving Cell energy production

The results we’re seeing now in patients with varying injuries and conditions is really remarkable.

Susan came to me 8 months ago with severe hip pain which was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis 12 years ago! Pain was on sitting, walking, getting in/out of the car and turning in bed was very sore. She is keen to postpone/avoid surgery so we treated her with a hip cartilage regeneration course of MBST. The above photo was at discharge with a happy patient.

- Optimising intercellular signalling pathways

- Reducing inflammatory mediators

MBST uses the same method of electromagnetic energy transfer as MRI scanning which is how it was discovered in Germany 20 years ago.

This translates to you and I as a healing process in the tissue the energy is applied to which leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in the natural mobility and lifestyle of the patient without any need of invasive

- Readjusting cell circadian clock-leading to less cell death and cell reproduction.

This translates to you and I as a healing process in the tissue the energy is applied to which leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in the natural mobility and lifestyle of the patient without any need of invasive therapy.

Since then it has been adapted, updated and improved to achieve remarkable results for patients with varying conditions such as: Osteoarthritis, muscle tears, Tendon /ligament damage and Bone injury in all areas of the body.

Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results.

Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results.

It’s growing in popularity in the UK as a safe non invasive and natural way of tangibly healing our bodies and as more and more people are seeing that the results are actually for real it’s acceptance within the medical profession is also increasing significantly.

The results we’re seeing

Rob (above) is a great example of how MBST heals cartilage in a moderate to severe arthritic knee. 15 months after his MBST therapy he now runs, plays racket ball and golf without any pain and that’s without his braces. He’s recently done a course on his severe arthritic neck and has significantly less neck pain and improved mobility. Over the next 6 months I expect his condition to reach over 90% improvement.

without his braces. He’s recently done a course on his severe arthritic neck and after 3-4 months has significantly less neck pain and improved mobility. Over the next 6 months I expect his condition to reach over 90% improvement.

Knees were where I mostly started using MBST and I’m still seeing great results in 90% of the patients who are appropriate candidates for the therapy. I now also see a lot of spinal arthritis, shoulders, hands hips and ankles, really helping patients for whom there were few other options.

Another fine response to MBST. I discharged Valerie 5 months after doing a course of cartilage regeneration for her knee arthritis. She’s gone from a 9/10 pain in the mornings to 95% improvement. Thank you for the testimony Val.

Jonathan Webb has seen great benefit from MBST for his patients

RGS students visit India

DANCE and sport provided some common ground when students from Redland Green School visited a partner school in India.

RGS youngsters and their teachers learned modern interpretations of local folk and Bhangra moves known more widely as Bollywood Dance while their hosts at The Hope Foundation School in Bhuj had an opportunity to learn a dance from UK musical theatre.

On the sports field, Redland Green students took football and rugby equipment to introduce these activities to the Indian students. In turn, the visitors enjoyed learning the Indian sport Kabaddi and playing a high level of cricket, which is clearly the most popular sport!

The Hope Foundation School was set up in 2001 after the Gujarat earthquake to enable children of the poorest families in the area to access an education. RGS, led by

international coordinator Mr Peters, has been collaborating with the charity-funded school in many subject areas over the years and has been running visits since 2013.

During the week-long visit by 22 RGS Year 11 students and their teachers in December, virtual assemblies were held so that their experiences could be shared with others back home.

Mr Peters said: “The relationship between the two school is embedded within the Redland Green school community . The trip is built on the much valued relationship with our partner school and enabled us to see the impact of our fundraising enabling children to go to school in India.

“If you wish to help by sponsoring a child for £10 a month at Hope Foundation School, please email info@ redlandgreen.bristol.sch.uk. This donation fully supports a child to attend the school.”

I have been so impressed with the transition into Year 7. My child is speaking incredibly positively about the teachers and is motivated to learn.”

Parent

BFS football girls in last eight of national cup

BRISTOL Free School’s Under 14 Girls Football Team are through to the final eight teams in the English Schools FA National Cup.

The team won the Bristol Schools competition and were crowned overall County Champions at the end of the last academic year. This year, they have taken on a bigger challenge by entering the National Cup. They started the knockout campaign in style, beating Five Acres School in Gloucester 17-0! The team continued their run with the following results 7-1, 120, 4-2, 4-1 and in the most recent round of 16 against Kings of Wessex Academy, they won 12-1. Bristol Free School are the last remaining school in the Southwest, scoring a total 56 goals in six games and only conceding five goals in the entire competition, A special mention

to Emily G who has scored an incredible 22 goals.

Laura Ballard, head of PE at Bristol Free School, said: “I am so proud of the squad and what they have achieved. Not only have their conducted themselves with a great skill level throughout the competition but the team cohesion and respect for opponents and officials has been admirable and I hope we can go all the way.”

Susan King, headteacher of Bristol Free School, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the success of our U14 girls football team. When the England women's team won the European Cup last summer there was so much discussion about the impact this would have on girls football. BFS girls were already leading the way in this regard with their amazing team spirit, skill and determination. We are

BFS U14s have scored 56 goals in six games and conceded only five

all so proud of them and their great winning spirit. The BFS community will be cheering them every step of the way. A big thank you to St Monica's who have kindly sponsored the new football kit. Credit and thanks

must also go to Mrs Ballard who has been their coach since Y7 and is one of their greatest fans."

Bristol Free School face Dame Alice Owen School from Watford in the quarter final stage of the cup on Wednesday March 1.

St Bede's duo meet MPs

TWO students from the Areté sixth form at St Bede’s Catholic College visited Parliament for talks that could influence education policy.

Aleena Thomas and Chris Mathew were invited to a discussion with representatives of businesses, government and charities about Applied Learning.

They were chosen to represent English schools because of their school’s long-term participation in the Young Enterprise programme, an inter-school competition in which students run their own businesses for a year.

Young Enterprise is a great example of Applied Learning and it has partnered with The Entrepreneurs Network, a think tank, and the secretariat of the All-party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Entrepreneurship, to produce a report for MPs.

Chris and Aleena spoke about their experiences with the YE Company Programme in front of MPs Seema Malhotra, who is the Shadow Business Secretary and Anna Firth from the Parliamentary Education Committee, as well as former Education Secretary Justine Greening. Jade Hicks was able to discuss Applied Learning from a teacher’s perspective, as well as wider educational topics.

Net gains for Redmaids’ High players

REDMAIDS' High School has seen exceptional success on the netball court this seasons.

Both the Under 16 and the Under 11 teams won regional titles and qualified for the national finals this month while Year 10 student Neve found out that she has been selected for the U17 England Netball squad for the European Championships. The news came after Neve has spent the last few months training with the England Roses Academy, attending regular training camps and performing alongside the other Academy players.

Director of Sport Claire Maggs commended the students saying, “These are phenomenal achievements; the students played with such confidence, determination and composure, encouraging each other throughout the competitions. Netball is such an integral part of school life at Redmaids’

High and we are thrilled to see all the hard work from students and staff pay off at both regional and national levels. We wish all students involved the best of luck at the National Schools finals in March and to Neve for the Netball Europe.”

Redmaids’ is host for the Severn Stars

U17 Nova Academyunder the leadership of the school’s coach Kellie Hull; an exceptional netball player herself . The Severn Stars Performance Pathway provides first class training, coaching and competitions for young talented players.

We have a shortage of foster carers and need more people in Bristol to come forward. Please help us keep local children close to their schools and communities.

Get in touch with us to find out what support, training and benefits we offer our amazing foster carers.

Foster with Bristol City Council and make a difference.

0117 353 4200

www.bristol.gov.uk/foster

Hearing Impaired Support Scheme

HEARING Impaired Support Scheme, a small Bristol charity, is looking for new volunteers.

We maintain hospital-provided hearing aids in people’s homes; we are not audiologists, but are trained in small repairs.

Please contact us by email info@hissbristol.org.uk or on 0117

3361612 (leave message).

Staying in touch with life and friends when you are hard of hearing is really hard and tiring.

Tips for better communication:

Ask how best to communicate.

Don’t shout!

Catch my attention: use my name or ask if you can touch my arm. Say WHAT TOPIC you are talking about first.

Face me with full attention: we cannot hear round corners!

Use gestures and facial expression.

Speak slowly: give me time to work it out.

Check that what you’re saying is being understood. Light on your face and not behind you: we ALL lip read to some extent.

Quieter background: ask to turn music off and don’t clatter cutlery. Hearing aids help a lot.

Get support and equipment from The Centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing: cfd.org.uk

Emma Davey, Trainee Solicitor at AMD Solicitors, looks at the distinction between matrimonial and non-matrimonial property on divorce.

Advertising Feature

one or both parties have acquired during the marriage. For example, the family home, savings and pensions. In contrast, nonmatrimonial property is usually acquired by a party before the marriage, after the separation, or from a wholly external source such as inheritance.

The gift that pays for itself

When marriages break down, parties may be concerned about the impact the divorce may have on their assets, whether jointly or solely owned. Parties may be particularly concerned about how they will afford two separate homes, without having to make great compromises with regard to the living standard enjoyed by them and any children of the marriage.

will be. However a Will can be worded to provide that a gift of 10 % of the value of your estate at that time is given to a charity or charities of your choice. The effect of this will be that the rate of Inheritance Tax payable on the whole estate is reduced from 40 % to 36 %.

In an ideal world, the parties to the divorce would mutually agree how the assets and finances in the marriage should be divided, whilst considering fairness and each other’s needs. There are many out of court resolution methods that can assist with reaching such an agreement, including mediation and collaborative law.

By Shelley Faulkner, solicitor

If the parties disagree about how assets should be divided the Court can step in.

In same circumstances, it has been calculated that this reduction in the tax bill can serve to leave the estate, even after payment of the gift to charity, with a value as high as if the gift had not been made. Thus the gift can in some cases quite literally pay for itself.

with AMD Solicitors

When considering the division of assets, the court will distinguish between ‘matrimonial’ and ‘nonmatrimonial property’. Matrimonial property is financial assets that

WHILE most of us support a number of charities in our lifetime, it is perhaps not surprising that a smaller number choose to remember a charity in their Will. Clearly the priority for most is to provide for a surviving spouse or children, or to ensure that the family wealth can be passed on to benefit the next generation.

However, government policy is clearly to encourage giving to charity, and a recent development in the law is intended to promote gifts to charity being made by Will. This change may also, on occasion, serve to save Inheritance Tax, or even to create a gift which literally pays for itself.

Reduced rate of Inheritance Tax

Where somebody dies after 6 April 2012 the rate of Inheritance Tax applied to the estate can be reduced from 40 % to 36 % (in other words by 10 %), provided that at least 10 % of the estate passes to charity.

Clearly it is not possible to determine in advance exactly what value the assets you leave by Will will have on your death for Inheritance Tax purposes, or what 10 % of the total value

Matrimonial assets will fall into the pot to be divided between the couple when reaching a financial settlement, with a starting point of equality, but non-matrimonial assets can be treated differently. In certain situations non-matrimonial property can be ringfenced. This is, however, subject to the exception of need, which would justify nonmatrimonial assets becoming part of the divisible assets. The Court can order this to happen if there would otherwise not be enough money to meet the housing and financial needs of the parties and any children. The Court will also consider factors such as the duration of the marriage when considering whether non-matrimonial assets should be shared between the parties, and the extent to which any non-matrimonial property has been mingled with other family resources.

How leaving money to charity can save you Inheritance Tax

for the distribution of the estate, and the estate can then be divided as if the Will had been made in these terms. A Deed of Variation could therefore provide that 10 % of the estate is to pass to a chosen charity or charities, making the estate as a whole eligible for the reduced rate of Inheritance Tax.

Even where a Will has not been prepared in these terms, it may be possible to take advantage of this tax break. If the beneficiaries of the estate agree, it is possible to effectively amend the terms of a Will within two years of the date of death. A ‘Deed of Variation’ can be drawn up which sets out the family members’ agreed arrangements

This change in the law is clearly very good news both for charities, and potentially for some estates as well. However the detail of the application can be complex. For example, the estate is divided into different ‘components’ depending on how the property will pass to the beneficiaries, in order to calculate whether the 10 % test has been met. Taking specialist advice on the implications for your particular circumstances is therefore essential.

The family home will usually be treated as matrimonial property, and will hold a central place in proceedings, even if it was purchased prior to the marriage by one party, and even if it continues to be held in the sole name of one party. Although the Court can have regard to contributions that each party has made to the marriage, including the source of the funds used to purchase the property, these contributions are only likely

of attorney and all private client issues, contact Shelley Faulkner, Florence Pearce and the other members of the team on 0117 9621205, email probate@ amdsolicitors.com or call in at 15 The Mall Clifton, or 100 Henleaze Road Henleaze.

to be relevant where there the needs of the parties can be properly met by the available funds.

Financial arrangements can be complex and are unique to your circumstances. Our team of family Solicitors have years of experience in divorce and financial proceedings. For confidential advice on resolving finances on divorce, including a free initial 30 minute consultation with one of our family specialists, please contact 0117 962 1205.

AMD’s team of experienced private client solicitors and practitioners includes full

AMD Solicitors takes pride in sponsoring local, Bristol based charities and this year is very pleased to be supporting the Bristol branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, the local branch of this national charity which works to improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia in Great Britain. For full details of our fundraising activities visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com.

Copyright AMD Solicitors

News and views from our city councillors

Geoff Gollop (Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze)

Bus service cuts

With effect from 1st April 2023, Westbury and Henleaze loses its bus links to the University of the West of England and Bristol Parkway station.

Service 10 From Avonmouth through Westbury-on-Trym will now terminate at Southmead hospital. This means it will no longer extend to UWE bus station, Bristol Parkway station, Bradley Stoke, Aztec West Alveston or Thornbury.

Similarly Service 11 from Shirehampton through Westbury, will also finish at Southmead Hospital and not go to UWE or Parkway.

It is no consolation that 42 other bus services are being cut in the West of England

Mayoral combined transport Authority.

You may have read my previous notes about the dysfunctional way the West of England combined authority works and this is a classic example of it. The metro Mayor and the local authority leaders should have been discussing this potential crisis for months and attempting to find a solution. Instead, these devastating proposals are being put forward by the Metro Mayor.

If this affects you by cutting off your access to work or family, please make contact as we need examples to share with Council leaders who seem unaware of the seriousness of the situation.

It is beyond stupid, that at a time when the Council is rightly wanting to reduce car usage and pollution, that WECA removes support for these critical services, forcing passengers to consider car travel. I am grateful to transport campaigner David Redgewell for briefing me on the detail of this proposal.

See Sharon’s article for details of the proposed charges on Westbury Hill car Park. If you share our concerns please register at wotcarpark@gmail. com. Also see Sharon’s article for an update on St Christophers development in Westbury Park. I will provide an update on the Council budget next month.

Keeping in touch

• Our next Westbury and Henleaze zoom meeting, open to all, is at 7pm on Tuesday 7th March; go to http://tiny.cc/ WandHMar23 to book in. The following meeting will be in person on 18th April, • Contact. If you need help on any matter to do with Bristol City Council, email me Cllr.geoffrey.gollop@bristol.gov.uk or phone 0117 9039946.

News and views from our city councillors

Sharon Scott (W-on-T & Henleaze)

Westbury Hill Car Park update

The decision was approved at the Cabinet meeting on 24th January. 52 residents put in statements objecting and Geoff asked for consultation with residents and users so the Council could understand the concerns of the community. The Mayor and his Cabinet indicated they would have discussions.

On 2nd February the proposed car park charges were discussed at the Budget Scrutiny meeting. A Labour member representing Southmead expressed concern for her residents and those from Horfield, who also called for a full consultation. As I write the next key date is 21st February when the Budget is voted on at Full Council. Written statements already submitted will provide evidence of concerns raised. If we are not successful in getting the plans withdrawn, we will need your help in pushing for a full consultation. We need to maximise the number of email addresses we have, so we can make contact as soon as we know the detail, as there may be a very short deadline. Please encourage

everyone concerned to register with us at wotcarpark@gmail.com

St Christopher’sOfficers hope to bring the St Christopher’s School planning application to the Committee meeting scheduled for 26th April, commencing at 2pm (This may be subject to change). If it is determined on this date, Public Forum statements need to be submitted by 25th April by 12 noon. Submissions should be emailed to: democratic.services@bristol.gov.uk

The Big Tidy

During autumn and winter, our street cleansing crew focused attention on Westbury and Henleaze. With over 130 roads cleaned in the ward, the crew have now moved to Henbury and Brentry. The crew did a fantastic job in all weathers and have made our streets much cleaner.

Falcondale Rd and Henbury Rd

(Prohibition of Right Turn Order)

The Council has given notice that they propose to apply for a traffic order, the effect of which would be to prohibit any vehicle proceeding Falcondale Road offside lane to turn right into Henbury Road. The draft order plan and statement of the

Dement ia Day Centre Memor y Lane

Council’s reasons for proposing this can be viewed on the Council’s website at uk/traficorders.www.bristol.gov. Objections to the proposal together with grounds on which they are made must be sent in writing to the Council or emailed to tro.comments@bristol.gov. uk quoting reference CAE/RGW/P-1257 by 10th March.

Bristol cathedral lunchtime recitals

Most Tuesdays, the Cathedral hosts recitals by a variety of world-class musicians. These recitals start at 1.15pm and last around 45 minutes. Admission is free. The programme for March includes organ, flute, piano and voice recitals.

Staying in touch

If you need any help on a matter to do with Bristol City Council, you can contact me by email on cllr.sharon.scott@bristol.gov.uk – I also have a facebook page where I post regular updates: Sharon-Scott-10433537851413www.facebook.com/Cllr-

y Communit the in Caring

Memory Lane is a new Dementia Service based at Caring Comes First in Kingswood. Our aim is to improve and maintain the wellbeing of those living with Dementia, through person centred activities and social opportunities. Our goal is to offer enrichment to the lives of people living with Dementia, which has a positive effect and therefore increasing their wellbeing by engaging in stimulation and activity outside their normal routine.

We offer a fully engaging, interactive experience for all our clients, with activities including;

Live Music & Singalongs | Music Therapy | Crafts | Flower Arranging | Gardening | Aromatherapy | Animal Therapy | Reminiscing Sessions | Tabletop Games | Armchair Yoga

Sessions are available Monday-Friday 9am - 12.30pm | 1pm - 4.30pm (Drinks & snacks included)

We are now taking referrals for private and funded clients, to find out more about our ser vices please call

News and views from our city councillors

Steve Smith (Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze)

Westbury Village Car Park

Sharon’s article has full details, but the Council is proposing to introduce pay and display charges in the village car park on Westbury Hill. To stop this, or at least ensure an initial free period for shoppers, we need as many people as possible to object as and when consultations or meetings occur. If you email us at wotcarpark@gmail.com we’ll let you know when this happens and advise you on when and how to have your say.

Canford Lane Pedestrian Crossing

I feel like I’ve been writing about this in the Voice for years, but we are finally getting closer to a zebra crossing being built over Canford Lane near the cemetery. Four years after we secured the funding for it, all of the plans and approvals are now complete,

and as I write they have been sent to the Council’s main contractor to place an order for the work. I hope that we’ll be notified of a start date for construction soon, and I’ll publish that through all the usual channels (including here) once I have it.

Street Lights

We have had a spate of reports recently of broken street lights which are not getting repaired for a very long time. If a light near you is out, please initially report it via fixmystreet.com or the Council’s website. If it isn’t repaired in a reasonable time after you’ve done that, please let us know so that we can chase it up.

Vans on the Downs

This remains a matter of concern to a lot of people, and the Council has produced more words than action when it comes to solving it. Along with our colleagues from Stoke Bishop ward, we are meeting the Mayor Marvin Rees in late February to try and raise

the profile once again. It will be past the Voice print whendeadline that meeting happens, so I’ll provide an update in the April issue.

Stay in Touch

We hold zoom meetings for people to stay in touch with us, ask questions or raise concerns. The next ones will be on the 7th February ( register to take part at tiny.cc/ WandHFeb23) and the 7th March (tiny.cc/ WandHMar23). The meetings start at 7pm. Contact me by email on cllr.steve.smith@ bristol.gov.uk, or phone on 07769 285266. I post updates on my Facebook page at fb.com/CouncillorSteveSmith. We publish regular email updates – please contact me if you’d like to be added to the mailing list.

Building Excellence

Our local, reliable, friendly and trustworthy team of specialist tradesmen can manage all aspects of your home from simple refurbishments to complete building projects.

n SPORT

Cricket success

NINE young players identified and developed by Bristol’s African Caribbean Engagement (ACE) Academy have been selected for county age group programmes in the South West.

Six have been inducted into Gloucestershire’s Talent Pathway while one has been selected for Somerset’s Pathway and two for Wiltshire’s.

The ACE Programme began in September 2021 and is led byTheo Gordon. It has delivered regular coaching sessions in urban areas of Bristol in the hope of unearthing talented youngsters from African and Caribbean backgrounds.

ACE Academy sessions are held every Saturday between 6.30pm and 9.30pm at the Seat Unique Stadium, Nevil Road, Bristol. For more information on how to get involved with ACE, email Theo Gordon at theo@ aceprogramme.com.

Charity fixture

THE red and blue sides of Bristol are putting aside their colours for a charity match in May.

The game at the Memorial Stadium between a South West Legends side and an All-Star XI will raise money for and awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Bristol Rovers legend Marcus Stewart was recently diagnosed with MND and he united with City’s kitman and former player Scott Murray to urge fans to support the event on May 13 in aid of the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation.

He said: “This is going to be a celebration of football. There will be big names on the pitch at The Mem in May to lend their support and I just hope they brush up on their Bristolian before the game so they can understand what’s being said on the terraces!”

Top hair dressing salon moving to Westbury-on-Trym

Central Studio is one of the top hairdressing salon’s in Bristol and the good news is that its opened a brand new salon at 73 High St, Westbury-on-Trym in February 2023.

Established since 1986, Central Studio’s Westbury salon will include stylists as well as three colour consultants who have extensive knowledge and experience in all types of hair.  Alex is the salon’s hair extensions specialist working with Beauty Works hair extensions and can offer up to date advice on new hairstyles in fashion and the latest techniques.  Supported by the studio’s friendly and professional receptionist, all new and existing clients will always be in safe hands.

The salon also offers complimentary consultations, so if you are looking for ideas for a new style, a change of colour or a particular look for a special occasion don’t hesitate to get in touch.

All the stylists at Central Studio are experienced and extremely talented. Trained to advanced level, they are able to ascertain and deliver the looks clients are looking for, be creative in approach and

both maintain existing looks or recommend changes if required.  Top quality products are used when shampooing and conditioning and all clients receive complimentary head massages.

The team wanted to move to Westbury-on-Trym as they know the village and wanted to be part of the local community and they have plans to get involved with local initiatives and support other businesses locally.  As a top quality hairdressing salon the team has ambitions to help everyone in Westbury look and feel stylish and, with some of the best hair stylists in Bristol, you will be in safe hands.  For clients there is plenty of parking and good public transport options so with the personal level of service that Central Studio offers, your visit will be a really pleasurable experience.  All clients will be offered refreshments when they arrive and will be able to read a wide variety of  magazines in a truly relaxing atmosphere.

Many of Central Studio’s existing clients already live in the village and the team are looking forward to meeting new people.  Jayne

Wright, who owns Central Studio said: “Our client relationships are extremely important to us and most of our clients have been with us for many years.  What we want is for you to feel rejuvenated having come to visit us, to feel relaxed and at home and for you to be able to get to know us and for us to get to

know you.  We are a really friendly and welcoming team so please do pop in and say hello and we would be delighted to help you with  any of your haircare needs.”

To get in touch go to www. central-studio.co.uk or contact the team by telephone: 0117 9290120 or email centralcharlotte@aol.com

FINANCE

With Richard Higgs BA (hons) CFP FPFS

Harold Stephens

50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3DZ

T: 0117 3636212

Lasting power of attorney: acting as an attorney

So, you’ve been asked to be an attorney… but what does that mean?

If someone has appointed you using a lasting power of attorney (LPA), you can make decisions on their behalf once the LPA has been registered. That person is known as the ‘donor’, and you are their ‘attorney’. You don’t need any legal experience for this. Whilst still able, you should assist the donor to make their own decisions wherever possible.

There are two types of LPA –‘health and welfare’ and ‘property and financial affairs’. Sometimes the same people will be attorney for both types of LPA, sometimes

not. There may be more than one attorney responsible for making decisions and the donor will specify whether you need to agree on the decisions you’ll make (jointly), or whether you can make decisions with another attorney or on your own (jointly and severally).

The donor can include specific instructions within an LPA but it’s a great idea to talk to the donor to understand how they would like you to act in their best interests in different circumstances. For example, regarding charitable giving, plans for their money and how they would like to be cared for if they

became ill. What happens if you can no longer act as someone’s attorney?

There are many reasons an attorney can cease to act on a donor’s behalf – they may decide they don’t want to anymore, may lose mental capacity, perhaps they were a spouse or civil partner and the relationship subsequently ended or they have died.

When someone is arranging LPAs, we would always suggest they indicate ‘reserve’ attorneys just in case so ideally, if you aren’t able to act for them, there will hopefully be a backup.

As award-winning vulnerable customer champions, we’re well-placed to help you plan to prepare for the future, whatever that may hold. We can help to organise LPAs and also help to guide attorneys to ensure they are supported in making financial decisions in your best interests.

If you would like to have a relaxed chat about your financial circumstances, or to arrange LPAs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call 0117 3636 212 or email office@haroldstephens. co.uk. Richard records regular video updates on a range of later life financial topics - search ‘Harold Stephens IFA’ on YouTube.

If you want a relaxed chat about how to manage your assets in later life, then we are on hand to deliver it the good old-fashioned way – face to face right here in your local community

Birds on your doorstep

I WAS pleased to see three Robins in my garden the other day. They were not at all thrilled to see each other though. Robins are very territorial and there was a lot of chasing around until one disappeared elsewhere. The two remaining Robins are probably male and female - the plumages are very similar – but even so they compete for the best perch and food. Although it might seem like mid Winter to us birds are already preparing for nesting. There were signs even before Christmas. Blue and Great Tits look splendid in their breeding plumage, calling and researching nest sites. ‘Teacher Teacher’ is the Spring call of the Great Tit. This is why you should clean out or install nest boxes in the Autumn. The birds’ breeding season starts earlier than you think. Global warming is having a detrimental effect on breeding success. Many birds rely on insect larvae and caterpillars to feed their young –even seed eating birds. The earlier and warmer Springs cause insects to advance their breeding making peak caterpillar production out of sync with chick development. So should

you help the birds by feeding during the breeding season? Probably not. Fats, peanuts and seeds are not suitable for young chicks. Plant some native trees or shrubs instead. Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Ivy

provide free bird food throughout the year.

Alastair Fraser Bristol Ornithological Club Avonbirding.blogspot.com

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME

Providing top quality, best value, holistic care

Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care

We are now enabling close contact visits in the home, every resident is able to have an essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new residents from the community. We still have a varied activity schedule which keeps life interesting and happy.

We also ensure:

• Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented

• Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply

• Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand

• Safe face-to-face visits where possible

BIRD OF THE MONTH

n WHAT'S ON

March 14

n THE ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL lecture on Arts and Crafts in Cotswold Churches is at 8pm at Redmaids' High BS9 3AW. We welcome new members and guests. For more information on our lectures, given by specialists in their own field, see our website www. theartssociety-bristol.org.uk

March 15

n BRISTOL FRIENDS OF WNO invite you to enjoy a variety of talks with glorious music at our new venue, The Apostle Room, Clifton Cathedral (Worcester Road entrance). Visitors always welcome. Some Surprising Fachs Donald Maxwell looks back on the last forty-five years and shares some thoughts and illustrations from favourite roles in his very varied career. 6.45 for 7.15 pm. Refreshments available. Easy parking. WNO Friends £8. Visitors £10.00/ Further information about this and occasional coach trips from Melanie David Tel: 01934 842014 melaniejdavid@ btinternet.com

March 27

n HENLEAZE SENIOR FILM CLUB

Monday at 2pm Six Minutes to Midnight (PG) 2022 Based on the true story of a British finishing school for the daughters and goddaughters of the Nazi elite, in the late 1930s. Starring Judi Dench & Eddie Izzard. Tickets: £4.00 including refreshments. Carers welcome, easy access For more information, please call 0117 435 0063. St. Peter’s Hall, The Drive, Henleaze BS9 4LD

Regular events

Various days

n WEST OF ENGLAND BRIDGE

CLUB based at RAFA Club, 38 Eastfield, Henleaze. Five sessions every week, catering for different standards. Thursday afternoon is Improvers.

Monday and Friday afternoon is for more capable players; this is an EBU recognised session. You may come alone to any afternoon session; a partner will be found. The evening sessions are on Wednesdays and Fridays, and are open to pairs. www. woebridgeclub.co.uk or contact Secretary, Chris Frew, on 0117 962 5281.

Monday

n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579

n WESTBURY SINGERS: if you enjoy singing, we invite you to join our friendly, non-auditioned, 4 part choir, in term-time on Monday evenings

7.30p.m. - 9.30p.m.at Reedley Road Baptist Church. Please email the Secretary: gwenalwakeel@yahoo.co.uk.

n DICKENS SOCIETY. 7pm, at Leonard Hall, Henleaze URC, Waterford Rd, Bristol BS9 4BT. Talks, costumed readings, book club and social events. New members welcome. See www. dickens-society.org.uk or phone Roma on 0117 9279875 for further details.

n WESTBURY AND CLIFTON

AREA DISCUSSION GROUP meet

at Westbury on Trym Baptist Church every Monday 9.45am to challenge ourselves with topical debate on what’s happening in the world. If you would like to help to solve some of today's challenging issues with good company, tea and biscuits - contact James Ball 01454 415165 or Ian Viney 0117 9501628.

n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. Our lively, friendly and inclusive group welcomes visitors at any meeting. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917

n WESTBURY ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. Our lively, friendly and inclusive group welcomes visitors at any meeting. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917

Tuesday

n WESTBURY PARK WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meets on the first Tuesday of every month in the Girl Guide Hut on Westmorland Road from 7.009.30pm. We are an active and friendly group with a varied programme plus extra sessions for craft, coffee, book clubs, walks etc. Visitors are always welcome and for more information do call Sue on 07813795936 or email westburyparkwi@gmail.com

n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL is recruiting new members We are a 'threshold choir' actively looking for new people to join us. We meet in Easton on the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm to learn soothing and uplifting songs by ear and build skills in sensitivity/compassion/ loving presence to sing at the bedsides of people nearing the end of life. To join or support us in this work, contact Valerie on bristol@companionvoices.org. Visit www.facebook. com/CompanionVoicesBristol and www.companionvoices.org.

n WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP meet on Tuesday mornings at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church, 10.30amnoon. An interesting programme of speakers; come along to make friends. For more details, ring Kate 07905 064720.

Wednesday

n BCCS (BRISTOL CATHEDRALCHOIR SCHOOL) CHORAL SOCIETY meets at Henleaze Bowling Club, Grange Court Road, Wednesdays 7.30 to 9pm. A small, unauditioned choir singing varied music. New members welcome. For info, contact Kathy, 0117 949362 www.bccschoralsociety. org.uk/

n BLAISE COMMUNITY GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, open Wednesday and Saturday 10-2. Originally a walled kitchen garden. Free to enter. We’re looking for volunteers.

Our Café (+ homemade cakes) open 10-2, 18 March and 8 April.

n KNITNATTERSTITCH meet on Wednesdays (term time only) 10-12 @ Henleaze United Reform Church’s coffee bar. For more information contact Paula at knitnatterstitch @gmail.com

n HEALING SESSIONS run by accredited healers take place 2 til 3.30pm at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, or for info contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org.

n WELCOME WEDNESDAY Friendly and free coffee afternoon on the last Wednesday of the month, 2-3.30pm at The Beehive Pub, Wellington Hill West, BS9 4QY. Meet new people, have fun, and find out what’s happening in your area. Call 0117 435 0063.

Thursday

n LOCAL CHOIR ACTIVELY RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS. We meet at Stoke Bishop CE Primary School, BS9 1BW on Thursday, 7.45 - 9.15pm. We are a well-established mixed choir performing both sacred and secular music. See website www. henburysingers.org contact secretary at secretary@henburysingers.org.

n BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR

Always been keen to sing? Come along to our rehearsal nights, 7pm - 9.15pm on Thursdays in St Andrew's Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. No need to read music, no audition, just a voice test to establish whether you are tenor, baritone of bass. We cover many musical styles, enjoy singing in a great social vibe as we prepare for our regular concerts in local and national venues. From the Beatles to Mozart, from classical choruses to classic pop. Ffi : www. bristolmvc.org.uk ; facebook; or contact Steve: secretary@bristolmvc.org.uk;or ring 07776447699; or 07587143220

n HENLEAZE FLOWER CLUB

welcomes new members for the start of their exciting 22/23 Programme of floral design demonstrations. Annual membership £52. Demonstration meetings on 2nd Thursday of the month 2pm Bradbury Hall,Waterford Road, Henleaze and begin at 2pm.

Plus optional Practice Classes on 4th Thursday. Visitors welcome. We meet every month except December and August. Please contact Jenny York, Club Chair yorkjenny2@yahoo.com or phone/text 07880 700270.

n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www. pete4458.wixsite.com/highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall

n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR Come and join us as we fill St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze with a diverse selection of music. We are a friendly choir and meet on Thursday afternoons in term time from 1.45 to 3.45. There are no auditions, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Contact Jeanette on 9685409 or Jane on 07752 332278.

n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE starting Sept 8. For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30pm start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up, contact Marian Bishop 0117 9771629 or visit www. westburyparkspiritualistchurch.org

Friday

n HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB. Come along at 5.45pm on Fridays to see if bowling could be the sport for you. Coaching available. Experienced bowlers welcome. Situated in Grange Court Road, by Newman Hall. This is a friendly Club with good bowling facilities and social events throughout the year. Phone, Tom Logan, on 0117 962 1669 or email hbcsec@ henleazebowlingclub.org.uk for further details.

n U3A SCRABBLE GROUP meets at the Beehive pub , Wellington Hill West, on Fridays from 2 to 4pm. We are a very friendly non competitive group and welcome new members. For more information, please contact Heddy tel 07534717254/ email nigel.d.sara@btinternet.com

n LADIES BADMINTON, WoT Village Hall, Friday 10-12noon. New members welcome to join our friendly group. Contact Elizabeth on 0117-968-1759

BRISTOL CLASSICAL GUITAR SOCIETY PRESENTS

Daniela Rossi in concert

Saturday 15th April 2023 at 7.30pm

The Performing Arts Centre, Redmaids’ High School, Westbury Rd, Westbury-on-Trym, BS9 3AW

Tickets £18 - Includes 1 interval drink

Available from Bristol Classical Guitar Society, Eventbrite.co.uk* and on the door. *Booking fee of £1 per ticket

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