WESTBURY on Trym has seen off the threat of charges at the Westbury Hill car park.
Bristol City Council decided two years ago to bring in a £1 an hour pay-and-display system but did not implement it before the local elections in May. The idea has now been thrown out by councillors under the committee system adopted by the new administration.
It had been opposed by councillors past and present from the Liberal Democrat, Conservative and Labour parties and by residents, concerned about the impact on the surgery, churches and businesses in Westbury.
Dozens of objections to the charges, which were under discussion as part of a wider package of measures, were presented to the transport and connectivity policy committee.
Steve Smith, a former Conservative councillor for Westbury, told the meeting: “Every single one describes the damage this will cause to Westbury village.”
The four Green councillors on the committee supported the charges but were defeated by the five members of other parties.
Reports: Pages 3 & 4
Community has many voices
A book club focusing on translated literature has been launched at Max Minerva's in Henleaze. Founder Evelyn Heis says she has been inspired buy the multi-cultural and multi-lingual nature of Bristol. Report: Page 11
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Councillors vote down car park charges
THE threat of charges at a number of council-run car parks in Bristol has been lifted after councillors voted against plans to bring in a pay-and display system.
The 5-4 decision at the transport and connectivity policy committee means the city council will have to find other ways to make up the £276,000 a year it spends to keep district car parks free.
The vote has been particularly welcomed in Westbury-on-Trym, where many locals had raised concerns about how £1-anhour charges at the Westbury Hill car park would affect local businesses as well as users of the neighbouring health centre and churches.
The committee also voted down a bid to end the 30-minute free parking offered in all Residents Parking Scheme areas and decided to increase RPS fees. The proposals were all part of a package of transport measures
considered by the committee at its meeting on September 12. Members agreed to begin looking at the introduction of a workplace parking levy, as well as investigating pavement parking and supported bus services. They also supported plans to develop a new Regional Cycling Hub in Lawrence Weston Westbury Hill is one of 10 free car parks across the city, which would have become pay and display. Liberal Democrat Cllr
Caroline Gooch, representing Westbury, told the meeting: “The car park in Westbury-on-Trym serves the doctor’s surgery. It would be the only surgery where people have to pay to attend, were it to be implemented. It also serves two churches and a community centre, with lots of community groups attended by children, the elderly and the lonely.
“Most churches and community centres have their
own parking. But in Westburyon-Trym, both the churches and the community centre, and the doctors and the pharmacy all use this particular car park. We’re worried about moving parking over onto the street, or people deciding to shop elsewhere. Cribbs Causeway is only six minutes away, and Aldi and Lidl are close by.”
The charges at district car parks were initially proposed by the Labour administration in February this year, before the local elections in May when they lost power to the Greens. Labour were persuaded by the Conservatives to defer the introduction of the proposed charges for a year, and in return the Tories voted to support the rest of the administration’s budget proposals.
The other car parks that would have been affected are: Beechwood Road in Frome Vale; Callington Road and Repton Turn to Page 4
'Don't harm our community' Parking charges
From Page 3
Road in Brislington; Chalks Road and Derby Street in St George; Ducie Road in Lawrence Hill; Machin Road in Henbury; Stoke View Road in Eastville; and Waverley Road in Shirehampton.
Many members of the public wrote to the committee opposing the proposed increases. The majority of these were specifically about the Westbury Hill car park.
Speaking to the committee, Steve Smith, a former Conservative councillor for Westbury, said: “You have before you 54 statements that have come from residents, businesses, churches, the health centre, voluntary organisations, community groups, current councillors and former councillors. Not one of them thinks this will provide a benefit.Every single one describes the damage this will cause to Westbury village.”
The four Green councillors on the committee supported the charges but were defeated by the other parties.
Afterwards, Green group leader Cllr Emma Edwards said the decision showed the value of the democratic committee system.
"I am in favour of exploring all options that can reduce congestion, improve air quality and raise money to improve transport for everyone in our city, so I’m disappointed that some of these changes were not passed. However, as I have said before, no one party has a monopoly on good ideas and that’s exactly what the committee system aims to utilise. We will now continue working cross party and with the communities that we serve, to make up the £276,000 a year that the council spends on keeping district car parks free in another way to make sure we balance the budget in the best interests of the people of Bristol.
Councillors' column: Page 6
Meeting report by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Westbury on Trym Society outlined its objections to the proposed parking charges, and it seems the views were heeded ...
The Society has submitted a strong objection to this, not just from the point of view of Westbury, but from a consideration of the wider impacts. Our objection is that no account has been taken of the economic and social consequences at a time when all the district centres affected are struggling, particularly the independent shops, of which Bristolians are so proud.
Shoppers in the Westbury village catchment area have a choice of other places to shop with ample free parking - Cribbs Causeway or to the discount Aldi and Lidi stores in Southmead and Henbury. The charges proposed are bound to impact on the large range of independents in Westbury on Trym, who need shoppers from a wider catchment area. They stand to lose as car borne shoppers visit less frequently.
To assess the harm charging would cause in Westbury on Trym, last year surveys were undertaken of the number of vehicles and length of time they park, where they had come from and the reasons people use the car park.
We found very little abuse of the 3 hour limit, with 92% of users actually staying for 2 hours or less. One of the key reasons given for charging is to make the turnover of spaces more efficient. We found it is already highly efficient. Allowing stays of 4 hours would be counter-productive as more spaces could be taken up by long stayers.
Our survey of users in June 2023 found that the main purpose of using the Westbury Hill car park was to access the medical centre (28.1%), followed by visiting the banks (24.6%) and then shopping (24%). At the time the survey was undertaken Westbury still had the presence of three high street banks, hence the high proportion of users of the car park giving this as the prime reason for coming to Westbury. Since then Barclays and NatWest
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have closed their doors and shopkeepers have reported that trade has reduced noticeably in the mornings since their closure.
When asked what those users would do if charges are introduced, nearly a quarter said they would try to park on street. 18% said they would go elsewhere for shopping or services and 19% would visit less frequently, which would be extremely bad for trade in the village. The rationale behind the charges is that it will lead to car users changing their behaviour. There are plenty of competing shopping centres and stores with no parking charges and, with over half of car park users coming from outside BS9, it is far more likely that they will go elsewhere, especially given the limited public transport.
If drivers seek to find free parking on street as suggested, the Society considers this will create additional and potentially dangerous traffic movements by those trying to find a space on the streets, which are already busy.
The Westbury Primary Care Centre (PCC) is situated in the car park and is worried about the impact of charges on patients attending appointments, leading to requests for more GP home visits, adding further pressure to an already over-stretched service. The council has indicated an intention to offer annual parking permits for PCC staff in the car park, but the PCC fears that could take up a large proportion of total spaces at the expense of other users.
Aside from the business and health centre issues, the car park provides for the meetings and classes in the Methodist church hall, the Parish Church and Village Hall. The Methodist church has a multitude of daytime classes and community activities, such as the Ukranian hub, the Country Market and the Friendly club for elderly people, run by volunteers.
The Society believes the introduction of car park charges is ill considered and will not lead to any substantive change in travel behaviour, but rather will lead to serious consequences for local shops and the community.
MIKE PALMER BUILDING
undertaken
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS Stephen Williams, Caroline Gooch and Nicholas Coombes
Neighbourhood Fora
The Henleaze Neighbourhood Forum has been arranged for 7pm on Tuesday 22 October at the Trinity-Henleaze United Reformed Church on Waterford Road. Your local councillors Nicholas Coombes, Caroline Gooch and Stephen Williams will attend the meeting organised by the Henleaze Society. At time of writing, we are also eagerly anticipating the Westbury Village Forum on Tuesday 1 October from 7.30pm in Westbury Library. Westbury and Henleaze residents are invited to attend their nearest neighbourhood forum to raise matters of local interest.
Westbury car park
Car parking charges set for Westbury Hill car park have been scrapped. Local councillor Caroline Gooch, the Westbury-on-Trym Society and over 40 local residents presented statements to the Transport Committee opposing charging.
As Westbury and Henleaze councillors, we think that it is self-defeating to impose charges on an off-street car park when onstreet parking is unrestricted. The car park in Westbury village supports the medical centre, churches and community clubs as well as local shops. Charging for it would inconvenience visitors, displace parking onto local streets to the detriment of residents, and encourage shoppers to take their business elsewhere, consequently we think it would raise very little revenue for the Council. Parking charges were imposed by the previous council (mayor’s) administration but deferred for a year. The new council considered the measures in a wider review of parking charges. In anticipation of a close vote, Liberal Democrats had prepared a compromise amendment, but this was fortunately not required. A cross-party group of councillors voted 5-4 to scrap the district car park fees.
Van and caravan encampments
We are continuing to work with council colleagues to find solutions to reduce the number of people living in vans and caravans. Stephen is working with the chair of the Housing Committee to provide more properly serviced sites. The council will continue to take enforcement action against any vehicle dweller found to have committed anti-social or criminal behaviour. Action can only be taken if there is firm evidence, please report issues to us.
The van and caravan dwellers on sites across the city are not recognised as traditional gypsies and travellers. They continue to visit areas of the city, sometimes causing alarm. Residents of Canford Lane reported to us the break-in to a council owned site that is awaiting development; we notified the council immediately. The
situation has been assessed and eviction notices for trespass are being sought from the county court. We can’t push the court to act any faster than their normal procedure, but council officers are confident that the legal case is robust. The Council and police were able to more swiftly evict from Horfield Common recently due to a pre-existing court order. Once the Canford Lane site is secured, we will be pressing for it to be brought forward for permanent development.
Roadworks
Following the replacement of the FalcondaleHenbury Road traffic lights, the Council plans to install fibre-optic communications cables to link up all four sets of traffic lights on Falcondale Road. This will allow them to synchronise to improve traffic flow. Unfortunately, this means more disruption in the next few months with lane and footway closures from 1 October for 8 weeks. Cllr Nicholas Coombes is pressing the contractors to prevent rat-running (such as at Southdown and Hillsdon Road) as necessary. Cote Lane is subject to temporary closure for construction works between 8am and 4pm daily from 23 to 30 October.
St Christopher’s School site
At the time of writing Cllr Caroline Gooch is about to meet with the St Christopher’s Action Network to catch up on what is happening with the site.
Bins and recycling
We continue to have issues with certain streets in the ward suffering a poor service from Bristol Waste. As well as reporting directly, please continue to let us know if your street is missed on successive days or successive weeks.
Business break-ins
Following reports of several break-ins and thefts affecting numerous premises in Westbury Village, Henleaze Road and Stoke Lane, Cllr Caroline Gooch has discussed the matter with the Westbury-on-Trym Society and our neighbourhood Police Community Support Officer. The Police have assured us that they are taking the matter seriously, but we remain very concerned by this spate and would like the perpetrators caught. If you have any information, please let the community police know on 101.
Public Health and Communities Committee
Our local councillor Stephen Williams chairs the Bristol Public Health and Communities Committee. The committee’s October meeting will need to make a decision about future provision for burials. Canford Cemetery is now full and the capacity at South Bristol Cemetery will run out next year. Burials are far less common than cremations but are still important to some families and religious groups This will be an emotive decision for the committee balancing the wishes of many families against those who resist the use of green space.
Stephen also chairs Bristol’s Health and Wellbeing Board, which oversees and attempts to coordinate health provision by the many NHS and other health care providers in the city. The Board has been considering the provision of dentistry, there is rising concern about poor oral health in children. NHS England recently turned down an application to open a pharmacy on Southmead Road, replacing the closed Boots branch. Stephen has written to the new Secretary of State for Health to ask for a change in the rigid criteria for assessing pharmacy applications.
Libraries review
Later this year the Communities committee will start a review of Bristol’s libraries service. The city has 27 libraries, two of them in our area. Henleaze and Westbury libraries are the most popular in the city, after the Central Library. Stephen will have more to say about the review in future editions of the Voice but would welcome residents’ views on the future of the library service.
ON a bright sunny day on the second Saturday in September Golden Hill Sports held their annual Party in the Park’on the playing fields at Golden Hill.
Encouraged by the forecast of dry, warm weather for once large numbers of people turned up to enjoy all what was on offer. This ranged from live music, fair ground rides, a series of demonstrations, a circus entertainer, bouncy castles, a shopping village, numerous stalls plus traditional entertainment such as tractor/trailer rides, a coconut shy, wet sponge stocks, tug-of-war contests, horsey hoppers, a football challenge and much, much more catering for all tastes and all age groups.
Food and drink was available all day from the in-house bar, barbecue, curry and cake, tea and coffee stalls along with vendors selling Caribbean, Italian & Tibetan style snacks & meals, speciality coffee and milkshakes.
Music was provided by a variety of groups playing on stage, a procession of the ground followed by a static set by the Bristol Samba Band plus a welcome return by the Keynsham Brass Band. The draw for the raffle prizes donated by local businesses took place during the late afternoon and when darkness fell the event was brought to a close by a spectacular
firework display.
The organisers would like to thank everyone who attended Party in the Park
this year for their support as well as all the volunteers who helped to run the event from start to finish.
n WESTBURY ON TRYM VILLAGE SHOW
WESTBURY on Trym welcomed the start of autumn on September 7 with the annual Village Show. This year the theme had a literary flavour and was entitled Hooked on Books. This was reflected in the names of some of the exhibit classes. Paul Walker, the library development officer for Bristol City Council, opened the show with a stirring speech on the continued importance of books and libraries, and reflected on his own happy childhood experiences of entering his local village show.
The stonework, windows and guttering of the Village Hall are undergoing restoration, but the scaffolding that surrounds the building did not deter people from supporting the event. There was a record number of exhibitors, exhibits and visitors, so the hall was bright with displays of fruit, vegetables, cooking, handicrafts, sewing, art, photography and flower arranging. All ages were represented and the entries were a testament to the talents of local people.
The judges had an onerous task as there were so many impressive entries from which to choose. Reuben Tushingham, aged nine, was delighted to win the Best in Show trophy, (which was chosen by Paul), for his living garden grown in an ice cream tub, and which was entitled Mr. McGregor’s Garden.
Amazingly, the show even featured on BBC Breakfast and went viral on social media as one of the presenters won a first prize rosette for his
cheese and onion pasty!
Luckily, the rain held off until the end of the show. The garden buzzed with chatter as visitors perused the stalls, enjoyed the food and met up with friends and neighbours. Music from the Marshfield Brass Band was, as always, a highlight of the day. This year, entertainment was also provided by the Great Western Chorus of Bristol; their singing and sense of fun made a big contribution to the festive atmosphere.
John Wills House
The show committee is grateful to the many businesses and organisations in the community who supported the event by placing advertisements in the schedule or by donating prizes for the raffle. The show is primarily a community event but proceeds will be donated towards the upkeep of the Village Hall.
Next year’s Show will be on Saturday September 6.
Carole Thorpe
A glorious display of flowers, fruit and veg greeted visitors and Marshfield band provided entertainment
Best in show winner Reuben Tushingham, above right, and his winning garden below
n NEWS
New book club explores joy of translated literature
A NEW and innovative monthly book club has been launched at to bring the joy of translated literature to a wider audience. Hosted by popular Henleaze bookshop, Max Minerva’s, the club aims to establish a community of like-minded readers to experience literature from different language and cultures, and stimulate discussion about translated literature.
The club is the brainchild of the shop’s events co-ordinator, Evelyn Heis. Originally from Argentina and fascinated with translated literature since childhood, Evelyn was recently chosen to be an international reading challenge ambassador for the 2024 International Booker Prize.
She says “every word is meticulously placed” in translated literature and acts as a window into other cultures which
n ADVERTORIAL
helps people “foster empathy” for one another. She acknowledges the skill and artistry involved in such work, interpreting the words in one language and carefully constructing a version in another language, whilst maintaining the tone, humour, style and sentiment of the original.
Inspired by the multi-cultural and multi-lingual nature of Bristol, Evelyn adds: “Delving into a new author and language monthly, I hope to read around the world with our book club members and to instigate stimulating discussions about literature in translation.”
The translated book club will be held at Max Minerva’s on the last week of each month. It is free to join and the book can be ordered through the shop. To register your interest, or for more information, email info@ maxminervas.co.uk
New analysis unearths the benefits of buying a local, organic veg box
The Community Farm, based just south of Bristol, looked at the impact of buying four of their all-British veg boxes and found a multitude of benefits. Firstly, they found that they contained 26 different vegetables, encouraging people to cook with a huge variety of produce. Recent scientific research suggests that eating a variety of plants is key to better overall health: greater resilience to withstand infections, better digestion and better brain function. The latest health advice is to eat 30 different plants a week, including seeds, nuts, grains and spices, alongside fruit & veg. Getting a veg box is a great way to get more diversity in your diet. They also found that more than 75 local people benefited from growing the crops, including volunteers, refugees and asylum seekers, and people suffering with mental ill health. It wasn’t just people who benefited either with on average 30% more biodiversity on organic farms. With farmland
making up 70% of land in the UK and 1 in 10 of Britain’s wildlife species facing extinction, this really does matter.
To celebrate these findings, The Community Farm are offering new customers 10% off their orders for a whole year, when they buy four veg boxes in four weeks. They want more people to reignite their love of cooking and unearth the benefits of organic produce. Find out more at thecommunityfarm. co.uk
Evelyn Heis with a selection of translated literature
Redmaids' High hits the heights
YEAR 11 students at Redmaids’ High School had much to celebrate after receiving strong GCSE results.
The school is delighted that 53 per cent of grades are 9 or 8, the equivalent of A* under the previous grading system, and 73 per cent are 9-7, the equivalent of A*-A, compared with the national average of 22 per cent.
The school enjoyed success across several departments, including in Art, PE and Russian where more than half of grades were at a 9.
The results across all areas are a continued testament to the support and guidance offered by staff and the expert pastoral care that allows students to navigate their school life successfully and feel ready to move to their next chapter.
The school’s head Paul Dwyer said: “We have seen some fantastic results, and this is a wonderful reflection of the hard work of our students who have made the most of the opportunities available to them at our school.
“We are delighted to continue to support them as they enter the Sixth Form with us and pursue a diverse range of A Level subjects, including Physics, Computer Science, Modern Foreign Languages and Fine Art, as well as our new exciting programme of Electives. "
n EDUCATION
First Trinity GCSE results set a high bar
TRINITY Academy marked a milestone as its first intake of students received their GCSE results.
It was the first occasion that the school in Lockleaze could benchmark its hard work and educational ethos against other schools locally and nationally.
Both students and staff were delighted with the results. The very positive progress that students have made since primary school means Trinity Academy is one of the highest performing schools in terms of progress in the city and wider region. A quarter of grades were at 7 to 9 (previously A and A*).
The school is particularly proud that pupil premium students have outperformed their non pupil premium counterparts in terms of the progress they have made in English and Maths since primary school. This is particularly important to the school and fits with its mission to provide a world class education for
all its students. Staff are also really pleased as a performing arts school that some of the best results came from creative subjects including Art, Music and Dance.
Filsan Muhumed and Louie Anderson both achieved six 9s, three 8s and one 7. Louie said he was overwhelmed with the results. He attributes his
success to hard work and support he received from teachers.
Filsan will be taking Biology, Chemistry and Maths A level with a view to studying medicine at university. She says her success was a result of her hard work and the challenge from teachers. She said, “All teachers really pushed me right from the start of my time at Trinity in Year
7. There wasn’t a lesson in which I didn’t feel challenged. When I didn’t understand something, the teachers took the time to explain it really clearly.”
Both Louie and Filsan will be studying A levels at Trinity Academy’s new Sixth Form.
Headteacher, Eiron Bailey said, “I am absolutely delighted with our first set of GCSE results. They are testament to the hard work of our wonderful students and staff. It is particularly challenging for new schools to achieve strong GCSE results in their first year and Trinity has risen to the challenge.”
Neil Blundell, CEO of Cathedral Schools Trust, said “We are delighted that Trinity Academy has produced such a stunning set of results making such a positive contribution to education across Bristol. Staff and students have worked incredibly hard over more than five years realising an ambitious educational vision for the local community and for Bristol.”
Record results at BGS
BRISTOL Grammar School students achieved the highest GCSE results in the school's history.
A third of exams taken were awarded the top grade of 9, and more than half of results (55%) were 8 or 9.
Six pupils achieved a clean sweep of grade 9 grades (with five of those taking 11 GCSEs) and 88 pupils secured eight or more grades of 7 or above.
Head of BGS Jaideep Barot said: “I’m delighted at incredible success, both at top end, and for those who have done better than they may have thought possible across the grading range. I have immense pride in all of these pupils, who together are a hard-working, kind and wonderful year group"
BADMINTON
A-level students at Badminton had smuch to celebrate with over 60% achieving A/A* in three subjects, enabling over 80% to secure their first-choice university.
The school are proud of many outstanding achievements; Tammy secured 4 A* and will study Medicine at King’s College London. Sally, who achieved 3 A*, will study Physics at Imperial College. Ruth also achieved 4 A* and will go to the University of Warwick to study Mathematics. Angharad has a won a place at Oxford to read Geography and Alice has secured her place at Cambridge to read Law. Alice also gained full marks in Paper 1 and only dropped two marks in Paper 2 of her A Level English.
Students from the Class of 2024 at Badminton will be off to study a huge range of exciting courses both in the UK and overseas, ranging from Veterinary Science, Medicine and Actuarial Science to Urban Planning, Music and Cyber Security.
Results day is also a chance to reflect on what students achieved beyond the classroom. Head Girl, Yijing, who is off to Warwick to study Law, made an outstanding contribution to the musical life of the school and was a keen participant in many local music festivals.
Headteacher Jessica Mile said: “This year’s cohort are the first I’ve really got to know since taking over as Head at Badminton 15 months ago. They are an impressive group who have contributed to the wider school community whilst succeeding academically. I look forward to seeing where their journey takes them as they have already shown they have the motivation and ability to succeed."
942 4328 Thursday 19th October 5.45 - 8pm www.v6bristol.org Thursday 10th October 5.45pm – 8.00pm
Opportunity follows
Sixth Form Open Evening
Friday 11th October
badmintonschool.co.uk
Strong showing for BFS
BRISTOL Free School is celebrating another year of excellent GCSE and Level 2 Vocational results. Despite significant Covid disruption at the start of their secondary school journey, this cohort have become a closely knit community and demonstrated high levels of resilience.
The school saw 84% of students achieving at least a standard pass (grade 4+) in English and Maths with 66% achieving 5+ and reported 42% of all grades as 7+.
The proportion of students who achieved five or more grades at 4+ exceeded the national average,
Main School Open Evening
Thursday 3 October
4.30pm - 8pm
Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 24 October 4.30pm - 7.30pm
To sign up for these events and for further information please visit www.bristolfreeschool.org.uk
despite a nationally reported dip in results from 2023. Most of the cohort will remain at BFS to study in the Sixth Form.
Headteacher Susan King said: “I am absolutely delighted with this year's GCSE and BTEC results! We are all so proud of how hard this cohort have worked in very challenging circumstances. The number of students achieving a grade 4 and above in English and maths is fantastic and an important benchmark for their progress onto post 16 courses. We look forward to welcoming students back to our Sixth Form.”
www.bristolfreeschool.org.uk
We look forward to welcoming you.
“The sense of community at BFS makes school welcoming, friendly and exciting every single day” Year 8 BFS Student
n EDUCATION
Clifton College sees strong outcomes
AT Clifton College, 21 per cent of GCSE grades were 9s and 54 per cent were 9-7, with 31 different subjects offered.
Head of College, Dr Tim Greene, said: “I would like to congratulate all our pupils on securing such an excellent set of results. We have seen that the hard work of the pupils and the support of their teachers have really paid off. ”
Deputy Head Academic, Dr Gavin Turner, said: “Our
Year 11 cohort have posted an excellent set of GCSE results and I congratulate them on their achievements. This follows last week’s pleasing A level and BTEC results and paves the way for a very strong showing in two years' time when this cohort is at the top of the school.
"There are some excellent individual successes and I commend them for their hard work across the two years.
Can you help us grow?
FAIRFIELD High School is seeking support with plans to grow food on a balcony.
The Ecoteam has grown lettuce there in planters made from upcycled pallets
The students now have ambitious plans to fully utilise the large balcony space with a variety of produce, installing a plastic bottle greenhouse.
Bobby Walker, Ecoteam leader and geography teacher said: “A massive well done to this team of students who have
creatively turned this otherwise derelict space into a mini allotment which has flourished over the summer.
“We have no budget so rely on donations and shared resources with the school polytunnel project, so if anyone can help with planters, agricultural fabric to upcycle pallets, compost, seeds/seedlings or tools, we would love to hear from you.”
Any donation help, please email rwalker@fairfield. excalibur.org.uk
School to join trust
£2.5m for kitchens upgrade
CHILDREN in two primary schools stand to benefit from better quality and a wider variety of food after a major upgrade to their kitchens. The current kitchens are too cramped and unsafe to provide enough healthy food, leading to complaints.
Chefs in Ashley Down Primary School and Sefton Park Primary School, both in Ashley Down, could also see their working conditions improved. Council bosses said there were serious safety risks in the kitchens, due to their tiny size.
The new kitchens will cost Bristol City Council £2.5 million, money which was saved from other capital projects running under budget. Councillors on the children and young people policy committee approved the funding on August 29.
James Anderson, head of major projects, said: “Both the schools have very small kitchens which are, frankly, Victorian in their nature. Their operation is a health and safety risk. Our estates team has flagged these
schools as an urgent health and safety priority.”
The kitchens are “far too small” to produce meals onsite, and the lack of space restricts the variety and quality of food served to children, according to a committee report. Upgrading the kitchens will provide more space, improve the quality of the food and reduce staff accidents.
The council is only responsible for the kitchens, and wider buildings, of maintained schools, and not academies. This is one reason the money is being spent on schools in a more affluent part of Bristol. Another factor is requirements to feed children aged five to seven.
Green Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the children’s committee, said: “The government has brought in universal free school meals for key stage one children. That basically means that more food is needed to be prepared and served, and that has had an impact on every school.”
By Alex Seabrook, LDRS
HENLEAZE INFANT
HENLEAZE INFANT SCHOOL
Park Grove, Henleaze, Bristol Reception 2025 TOURS 0117 3772442 / Henleaze.i@bristol
Park Grove, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4LG 0117 3772442 / Henleaze.i@bristol-schools.uk
Reception 2025 TOURS
At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families and we want to meet you!
At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families and we want to meet you!
To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. We are delighted to welcome you on one of the below dates:
To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. We are delighted to welcome you on one of the below dates:
• Friday 27th September 11:00am
• Thursday 17th October 9:30am
• Friday 27th September 11:00am
HENLEAZE INFANT SCHOOL Park Grove, Henleaze, Bristol BS9 4LG
Andrew Hillman, chair of governors, said:“Becoming part of the GDST family of like-minded and successful schools will be of great benefit to Redmaids’ High School, now and into the future.”
At Henleaze Infant School we are invested in our children and our families and we want to meet you!
Cheryl Giovannoni, chief executive of GDST, said: “We believe that Redmaids’ High School embodies the ethos and values we hold so dear in all GDST schools, and we very much look forward to welcoming our new colleagues, students, parents and alumnae to the GDST family."
To book onto one of our tours, please contact the school office. We are delighted to welcome you on one of the below dates:
• Friday 27th September 11:00am
For information on primary admissions, please visit: www.bristol.gov.uk/schools-learning-early-years/primary-admissions
MONTPELIER High School has continued its record of academic excellence with an exceptional set of GCSE results.
An outstanding 85 per cent of students achieved at least a grade 4 in English and Maths, with two thirds (66 per cent) gaining a grade 5 or above.
The school in Cheltenham Road has achieved strong academic outcomes every year, with the 2024 results above those from 2019, the last year before the pandemic.
Headteacher Vanetta (Ben) Spence, who took up her post last year, congratulated this year’s students on their success. They are well set for the next steps towards their future goals, with a large proportion opting to remain at MHS in its inclusive and welcoming co-educational sixth form, V6.
She said: “This has been a wonderful first year of headship at Montpelier High School, and I am incredibly proud of our Year 11 students. They have
been a pleasure to work with, consistently demonstrating resilience and dedication throughout the year.
“Their hard work has clearly paid off, as reflected in their outstanding GCSE results. These achievements provide them with a strong foundation as they move forward into the next stage of their educational journey. I am confident that they will continue to excel and wish them every success in the future.”
MHS saw some outstanding individual performances.
Lila Knight, who lives in Gloucester Road, is a young carer. She achieved one 9, three 8s, three 7s, a 6 and a 5. She said: “I have three younger siblings, two who are severely disabled, so it’s been really tough this year but I worked really hard and am so pleased with my results."
Astrid Amponsah, from Sea Mills, notched up five 9s, four
8s and a 6. Astrid was a prefect and was a big part of the school community. She will study Biology, Maths, Further Maths and Chemistry.
Rhianna Aderogba, from St Andrews, achieved ten grade 9s and plans to stay on at V6 to do Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths and Biology
She said: “I’m so excited to be staying at V6 so that I can continue to receive the support of all my teachers."
ring 0117 942 4328
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
BOOKING REQUIRED - Please visit www.montpschool.org for more information or ring 0117 942 4328 Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on
BOOKING REQUIRED - Please visit www.montpschool.org for more information or ring 0117 942 4328
REQUIRED - Please visit www.montpschool.org for more information or ring 0117 942 4328
REQUIRED - Please visit www.montpschool.org for more information or ring 0117 942 4328
or ring 0117 942 4328
or ring 0117 942 4328
8.30pm NO BOOKING REQUIRED - Please visit www.montpschool.org for more information or ring 0117 942 4328
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications. Thursday 26th September 6.30pm – 8.30pm
mhs-info@montpschool.org
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Please contact mhs-info@montpschool.org for more information on Year 7 applications.
Lila Knight and mum Stephanie Astrid Amponsah
Rhianna Aderogba and Ben Spence
n EDUCATION
Fairfield students take centre stage
STUDENTS at Fairfield High School celebrated a strong set of GCSE results in 2024, reflecting the resilience, aspiration, talent and sheer hard work of the 216- strong year group.
The school believes that identifying and having conversations with students as individuals and not ‘numbers’, together with the careful planning and implementation of a broad and diverse curriculum, has been the secret to its success.
Many students achieved grades 8 and 9, including one who earned seven grade 9s.
Another achieved one of the highest Health and Social Care
GCSE grades in the country. Principal Edel Cronin said: “We focus on developing strong relationships with our students, encouraging them to aim high and believe in themselves. It is days like results day when we
have a warmth and sense of achievement knowing we have collectively been a part of this journey.”
All subjects saw great results in Fairfield. Some highlights include Languages, PE and
Health and Social Care. Drama results have seen an upward trajectory, demonstrating students’ commitment to arts, also reflected in an impressive 140 students taking part in the latest annual school production.
£13.2m secured for Claremont expansion
A LONG-AWAITED £13.2m revamp of Claremont School in Henleaze has finally got the green light from Bristol City Council.
The work will upgrade the Victorian manor house and enable the special school to have its primary and secondary pupils on the same site.
It is being paid for by a grant from the Department for Education, and could be completed within two years, councillors on the children and young people policy committee were told at a meeting on August 29.
James Anderson, the council’s head of major projects, said the work, which was first approved five years ago but has been awaiting funding, was urgently needed.
“It looks a bit like a school that’s been put into the Addams Family Mansion. It’s really old, it takes a huge amount of maintenance, and it’s approaching the end of its life. Unless the work is done, we’ll be at risk of closing parts of it, or maybe even the whole of it in course, ” he said.
The manor house was built in the 1850s and was bought by the council in the 1940s.
Planning permission for the improvements was granted in 2022. Extensions will be demolished and replaced with a twostorey extension, while the interior will be refurbished.
The redevelopment will enable the council to increase the number of places for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) as well as freeing up space at Redland Green School, where Claremont secondary department is currently
based.
The council is keen to create more SEND places to meet demand and reduce the enormous costs of sending children to private special schools.
Since 2020, 305 new SEND places have been created, with a further 500 planned over the next five years. These extra places mean that the council can spend less money paying independent schools.
The money for the Claremont redevelopment is coming from the government’s Safety Valve bailout programme, although the council initially applied for £25 million.
Funding for SEND is causing financial headaches for many local authorities, including Bristol.
Green Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the children’s committee, warned members that swift action would be needed from the new Government to prevent more councils from going bust.
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Leading co-educational day and boarding school for 3-18 year olds, nestled in the heart of Bristol.
Clifton College offers pupils a unique opportunity to excel in their chosen field through our Scholarship programme. Available for 11+, 13+ and 16+.
BOOK REVIEW
Thunderclap
LAURA Cumming is the art critic for The Observer. In her early twenties, she slips into the National Gallery in London, on her way to meet someone with whom she was having a doomed love affair. She is entranced by a painting called A View of Delft with a Musical Instrument Sellers Stall by the Dutch artist, Carel Fabritius. Thus began the author’s lifelong appreciation of the art of Fabritius and the painters of the Dutch Golden Age (1588-1672).
Thunderclap chronicles her love of Dutch art and is dedicated to both Fabritius and her father James Cumming , an accomplished Scottish artist who died in 1991. Fabritius died, age 32, in 1654 when he was killed during the Delft Thunderclap, the name given to an massive explosion, when 40 tonnes of gunpowder, stored for the defence of the city, in a cellar in a former convent, detonated killing over a hundred people. There are only a few surviving paintings by Fabritius, who was scarcely mentioned during his
n LIBRARY NEWS
by Laura Cumming
lifetime, yet his neighbour , the more famous Vermeer, owned three of his paintings.
The author provides us with a loving and detailed analysis of his art seen through her eyes. Her father applied to the Edinburgh College of Art but was prevented from starting his course by the start of the Second World War. He trained as a pilot and towed gliders, ferrying troops into Holland as part of Operation Market Garden. After the war, he won a travelling art scholarship, found a remote croft on the Isle of Lewis and taught art in the village school. After returning home to Fife, he worked all day at art college, slept for a few hours, then painted during the small hours. He painted the people he met during his stay on Lewis, translating into paint the character of the islanders, living and working in a desolate and wind exposed landscape, surrounded by white sands, pipelines, boats, lochs and inlets.
As well as describing the
works of Rembrandt and Vermeer, the author introduces us to lesser known artists such as Hendrick Avercamp, Pieter De Hooch, Jacob Van Ruisdael, Jan Van Goyen and Gerard Ter Borch. Their art is made meaningful by her insightful analysis and her loving observant eye. We discover that art was everywhere in the Dutch Republic with over a million paintings produced by over seven hundred painters across the middle decades of the seventeenth century. People of all incomes brought art at lotteries, studios and auctions.
This is a beautifully illustrated memoir, of a life in art and the author’s love for her father and the artists of the Dutch Golden Age. You can find this book and many others at Bishopston Library. Come and visit us at 100 Gloucester Road and walk out with a library card giving you free access to over two million books.
Review by Bob Deacon of Bishopston Library
Opening Hours: WoT
Monday (2pm-7pm)
Tuesday (11am-4pm)
Wednesday (11am-4pm)
Thursday (11am-4pm)
Friday (11am-4pm)
Saturday (11am-4pm)
Sunday (closed)
Opening Hours: HENLEAZE
Monday (11am-5pm)
Tuesday (11am-5pm)
Wednesday (1pm-7pm)
Thursday (11am-5pm)
Friday (1pm-7pm)
Saturday (10am-5pm)
Sunday (closed)
Join us to discuss Stories That Inspire
At 7pm on Wednesday 16th October Friends of Bishopston Library are pleased to be launching a new event, a book club with a difference, called Stories That Inspire Collaborating with local writer, Debs Penrice, this discussion group will cover why stories matter so much to us and how they hold a familiar pattern to inspire, entertain or educate the readers. If you love the idea of writing more, yet don’t know where to start, Debs will share practical tools and ideas for writing, showing how our creativity helps support positive thinking and wellbeing.
If you’ve had ideas about writing a book yourself and have a few stories of your own to share, why not come along to explore your favourite stories and share one
Author Debs Penrice
of your favourite books with the group. Costing only £3 + booking fee, including refreshments, tickets are now on Eventbrite (see QR code). Limited places available.
As Margaret Attwood is quoted as saying, “In the end, we all become stories,” so if you’ve reached an age where your stories are a huge part of your identity,
you might be intrigued to learn how much they would inspire others too. Sharing our stories is part of the legacy we leave and a gift for the younger generations. One author who is working with Debs on his second book has said, “Working together is the difference between thinking about writing and actually
writing.”
If there are people joining the group who would like to meet up to discuss their writing, this event will continue into the autumnwinter season, meeting once a month at the library. For more info about Debs, visit https://www. storyhealing.net
Another date for your diary: David Ebsworth writes historical crime fiction, with all his novels based on meticulously researched episodes in history. On Thursday 5 December at 7.15, he will be inviting you to travel back in time to the years of the Second World War – as you’ve almost certainly never known them before. We’ll Always Have Paris! tells the “stranger than fiction” stories behind his 2022 novel, A Betrayal of Heroes. These include tales of Casablanca and Brazzaville, of the Spaniards who fought for Free France, of the 1940s celebrities and spies who fill the novel’s pages. Prepare to be amazed!
We hope to see you at the library soon!
n FROM BRISTOL NORTH WEST'S MP
Passengers' wait is almost over
PARLIAMENT only returned from summer recess on September, 2 but our Government has already made big announcements about overhauling our failing public transport system that will benefit bus and rail passengers here in Bristol North West.
Firstly, the Government's bill to bring our railways back into public ownership has now passed every stage of scrutiny in the House of Commons, so it's well on its way to becoming law – and great news for anyone planning to make use of the new Ashley Down station.
Secondly, Louise Haigh, the Secretary of State for Transport, has set out in Parliament our Government's plans to give local authorities new powers to run and own bus services. This would mean that Bristol City Council would have the power to run bus services in a way that suits the needs of our communities, rather than seeing vital routes axed by private bus companies based
solely on profits.
We saw this happen in recent times to the Stagecoach 10 and 11 bus services, with the section of the route from Southmead Hospital to Bristol Parkway axed at short notice.
I met with Stagecoach last year to raise constituents' concerns about the route change, which affected people getting to work and students going to university. After a lengthy wait, I'm thrilled the company has finally reversed this decision.
Many of you will know I have a long-running campaign for better buses in Bristol (see darren-jones. co.uk/bristol-campaigns) – something that I will be able to park when the Government's Buses Bill becomes law.
But what most of you probably don’t know is why saving vital bus services is so personal to me.
When I was younger, and about to start my A-levels, the sixth form in my secondary
school, Portway School in Shirehampton (now Oasis Academy Brightstowe), closed. This meant the only place local students could go to study A-levels was to head to the college in Bristol city centre. But that required you to have the money to get in and out of the city every day, which my family didn't have.
And so, as a teenager (and with no plans to be a politician at the time), I took part in my first campaign to try to save our sixth form. I remember having a meeting in the school library and being quite nervous about making my pitch to the councillors. In the end, we didn't save the sixth form, but we were able to get the council to agree to fund a minibus to take me and a couple of other students every day to Ashton Park Sixth Form Centre. My first campaign, and it was a success!
Finally, my next Pub Politics events will be held in Ashley Down on Thursday, 17th October.
Darren Jones writes for the Voice
To book, please head to darrenjones.co.uk/events or you can call my office if you aren’t online.
As always, you can email me at darren.jones.mp@parliament.uk, call my office on 0117 959 6545 or write to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.
Grounds for bringing a claim against an estate
AMD’s Martin Hall discussed the grounds for bringing a claim against the estate of a deceased person in England and Wales.
Disputes in respect of estates can arise for a number of reasons ranging from doubts about the validity of the deceased’s Will, questions about the deceased’s intention, or feeling unfairly treated or excluded from the Will. In England and Wales, there are various legal grounds for challenging a Will or bringing a claim against an estate, the most common of which are as follows.
Lack of Valid Execution of the Will
A valid Will must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two individuals who are present at the signing. The testator must have signed the Will with the intent of making it official. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to a challenge on the grounds of lack of
valid execution.
Lack of Testamentary Capacity of the testator (the person making the Will) Testamentary capacity refers to an individual's ability to make a valid Will. A testator must understand the nature and effect of making the Will, be aware of the extent of their estate, know who is expected to benefit from the estate, and be free from any mental disorder that could influence their decisions. A lack of testamentary capacity at the time of drafting or executing the Will can render it invalid.
Claims under the Inheritance
(Provision
for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 ("the 1975 Act")
Under the 1975 Act, certain individuals including spouses, civil partners, former spouses or civil partners, cohabiting partners, children, and other dependants
financially supported by the deceased, can bring a claim if they have been left out of the Will or if the provision made for them is insufficient. Claims under the 1975 Act must be made within six months of the Grant of Probate being issued.
Undue Influence
If a testator was coerced into changing their Will to benefit another party, the Will may be challenged on the grounds of undue influence. Signs of undue influence include unexpected or last-minute changes to the Will that contradict previous Wills, or changes that are detrimental to the testator or their estate and differ from previously expressed wishes.
Forgery
If a Will is found to have been forged or if the signature has been faked, the Will can be rendered invalid and may be chal-
lenged.
At AMD solicitors we understand that these kinds of disputes can be emotionally distressing and we are experienced in assisting, advising and guiding our clients through them.
If you believe you have grounds to challenge a Will, or need advice regarding an estate, then please contact us on 0117 9733989 or email us at info@ amdsolicitors.com.
n NATURE WATCH with Dawn Lawrence
The ram’s horn gall is caused by the wasp Andricus aries. The old galls can stay on the oak tree for several years and the fresh gall frequently harbours the Andricus larvae plus parasitoids and inquilines.
All photos: Rupert Higgins
Common spangle galls (left) are caused by the larvae of the wasp Neuroterus quercusbaccarum which has a complicated life cycle. In brief, the larvae mature inside these galls on the fallen leaves over winter and the first generation of adults emerges in spring to lay eggs in the new oak buds that cause a second type of gall to grow (a currant gall). A second generation then emerges, mates and lays eggs on the leaves causing these spangle galls to develop later in the summer and completing the life cycle. Silk button spangle galls (right) are caused by the larvae of a different Neuroterus wasp, N. numismalis. This species has a similar alternation of generations over the course of a year also producing two types of gall on the oak.
The striking robin’s pincushions are also caused by a gall wasp - Diplolepis rosae. Its life cycle is simple compared to the Neuroterus species but males are very rare in this species and most females lay fertile eggs without mating. The pincushion is internally divided into many chambers, each containing a larva and in Germany this gall is said to aid sleep if placed under your pillow.
Gruesome Greek tragedies of gall gnats
LAST month I promised you more about gall gnats – I don’t know how you’ve waited! You may have seen oak apples on oak trees and robin’s pincushions (see photo) on wild roses and not be surprised to learn that they are nothing to do with actual apples, robins or indeed pincushions. Rather, they are galls - the abnormal growth of plant tissues induced by another organism. Both those galls (one looking like a tiny apple, the other like a fuzzy red ball) are caused by wasps, tiny species not at all like the well-known stripey pirates of the picnic. Gall gnats are, as we saw last month, one of the most numerous insect groups in the world and there is no shortage of them in our area. But it is not just gnats and wasps that create galls; mites, flies, aphids, sawflies
and fungi are some of the many organisms that cause plants to form galls. The benefit to the galler (the organism that causes the gall) is that the overgrowth of the host plant’s tissue forms not only a home, hidden from predators and protected from the weather, but also an easy supply of food. There is apparently no benefit to the host (although galls rarely cause the plant a significant problem) and so these gall-forming creatures are parasites.
Gall gnats have varied life histories, some of which recall those gruesome Greek myths – yes, I’m afraid there are gall gnats whose larvae eat their own mothers (this is not unknown in other insect groups too).
Another strange feature is that several species can reproduce as
larvae, never reaching the adult stage and dispensing altogether with all that awkward mating malarkey – they just go ahead and lay eggs whilst they’re still babies (again, this is known in several insect groups).
There are many galls to look out for locally. Check the street limes for the bright pimples caused by a mite – they look like the pointy end of red nails protruding out of the leaves. Knopper galls, caused by yet another wasp, are acorns deformed into strange ridged and fluted shapes whilst many gallers cause plant leaves to fold over, curl up or twist around. Galls can appear as fluffy balls, rosettes, discoloured patches, thorns and swollen buds – once you start looking you will spot them everywhere!
Most extraordinary of all is that inside a gall there may be more than just the original galler. Indeed, what hatches from the gall may not be the gallers at all – they may have been completely parasitised by another species – there are several wasps that specialise in laying their eggs inside the larvae inside a gall. These are called parasitoids because they destroy their host (true parasites do not). There may also be inquilines –unwanted lodgers - often flies, that have simply moved in, taking advantage without paying their way at all. A single gall can contain dozens of individuals of several species – all this life inside an oak apple!
Flytipping is a serious problem. Disconcertingly SusWoT are often asked to clear flytipping. SusWoT can’t do this properly. Flytipping is a crime and Bristol Waste try to identify flytippers from the rubbish they tip, SusWoT can’t do this and would not remove evidence. Often the amount of flytipping is too great to remove without a lorry. What anybody finding Flytipping in Bristol can do is report it. A google search for “report flytipping in Bristol” will take you to the right place on the Bristol council website. Note that there are two options: one for parks and one for roads. Don’t rely on other people to report it, they may be relying on you!
Reuse and Recycling in Bristol, in Westbury we are lucky to be close to the Avonmouth Reuse and Recycling Centre. Here you can donate almost anything that you think might be reused or recycled. Search “recycling centre Avonmouth” to find out more.
The Village Show was a success. Despite the damp more than 700 people came. Many people were interested in what SusWoT does. Some were interested in the all-day energy event SusWoT Will be running on Saturday 16 November at the Village Hall. Some signed up to help keep our streets clean, and one couple
took litter picking equipment to get started straight away! Our new councillors were wanting to learn about the issues with the Trym and offered to help promote the Energy Day. The Increase in entries for the three SusWoT classes was pleasing. There were not many entries for the video competition, but the number of vegetarian dishes and the edible produce plants grown in a pot entries were both more than double previous years. Supporting our pubs is difficult work but somebody has to do it. SusWoT has a monthly meal in a local restaurant to support them and now has a monthly meal in a local pub too. These are popular and shows how lucky Westbury is to different eating places, pubs and Thai, Indian and Italian restaurants. Want to help? You would be very welcome of you wanted to help SusWoT, just email suswot2050@gmail.com and tell us what you interested in.
We need volunteers to help with:
• Keeping our streets clean
• Keeping the Trym and Hazel Brook clean and keeping the surrounding green spaces clean
• Maintaining the Community Garden
• Maintaining the Library Garden
• Growing plants from seed to sell at May Fair
• Running energy saving projects
Running the Energy Projects is particularly challenging. SusWoT has government grants from various organisations to help people reduce their energy consumption. For the RetroFit West project, we need help finding people to run stalls at the Energy Event in November, these might be businesses specialising in different ways to save energy in the home or expert advisors to help people get started with DIY energy saving projects. For another project overseen by the Bristol Energy Network we need people who are prepared to open their homes to local people to show what they have done to reduce their energy consumption. If you would like to do this please tell us.
Do you have questions about energy use in your home? If so please email suswot2050@ gmail.com with them, we will use them to help plan our Energy Event in November.
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THE WotSoc Monthly talks are returning, following a successful relaunch.
Tuesday October 15: “The Blue Plaques of Bristol” by Gordon Young of the Civic Society
Thursday November 21: “The world of town planning” by Andy Renshaw, a retired chartered town planner.
Tuesday January 28: “Stoke Bishop: Bristol’s leafy Suburb” by Keith Sheather, local author and former BBC Producer who will present his new book on the history of Stoke Bishop
All talks will begin at 8pm, with doors open at 7.45pm and you are asked to book a place by phone or email (westburyontrymsociety@gmail. com) as numbers are limited to 45. There will be a charge of £2 for members of the public, but the events will be free to members of the Westbury on Trym Society, and you can join on the evening! For more information about the Society, please visit westburyontrymsociety.org
Second is the return of the Westbury Neighbourhood Forum. This last took place in January, as the April Forum had to be postponed because of the impending council elections and then the general election. This is an opportunity to meet with our councillors and members of the local police to raise concerns, get updates and discuss local issues.
The Forum will take place on Tuesday October 1 with doors open from 7:30pm and the meeting beginning at about 7:45pm after coffee and biscuits. For minutes and presentations from previous meetings, please visit our website at westburyforum.org
Because the front doors of the library are controlled by the Extended Access system, you are asked to use the side entrance, which involves two steps, for all evening meetings; if this would cause you difficulties, please let us know, and we can open the main doors from the inside to allow entrance via the ramp at the front of the building. If you have any other questions, or would like to make any announcements at the Forum meeting, please contact me by phone or email (westburyforum@gmail.com)
Finally, the library group's own website is westburylibrarygroup.org and its email address is westburylibrarygroup@gmail.com
HENLEAZE COMMUNITY FORUM
BRISTOL City Council encourages local communities to meet at least twice a year. Given the size of Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze ward (which includes part of Westbury Park), Forums are held in both Westbury-on-Trym and Henleaze.
The next Henleaze Community Forum will be held at Trinity-Henleaze URC, Waterford Road on Tuesday 22 October (7pm to 8.30pm). You do not need to be a member of an organisation to attend and there is no need to book your place in advance.
The Forum is an opportunity for residents and those working in the Henleaze/Westbury Park area (within the Westbury-on-Trym & Henleaze ward) to come together to exchange views and ask questions on local issues and to meet our Ward Councillors, and members of local community organisations.
For further details, see https://www.henleazesociety.co.uk/henleaze-forum/ Any questions can be sent to henleazeforum@hotmail.com
BRISTOL LITERARY FILM FESTIVAL
BRISTOL literary film festival takes place in Bradbury Hall, Trinity Henleaze URC church, Waterford Road, on October 26 and 27.
Tickets are on sale via Eventbrite and all profits will go to St Peter’s Hospice.
To learn more about village life book your place on a guided tour now by calling 0117 919 4272, or visit www.stmonicatrust.org.uk for more information and details of available properties.
Olympics showed us that Covid remains a threat
IT is time to come into Kellaway Pharmacy for your Autumn Covid booster and annual flu vaccinations. Walk-in appointments are available, but you can book by calling 119 or using the NHS website. We will offer you the opportunity to have both together, which is recommended and safe, or you can pick separate dates and times. We will offer our quick, organised service and extended weekend clinics you can attend. Early vaccination means you start building an immune response that protects you.
Who can get these vaccinations?
Covid vaccine doses will be offered to:
• adults aged 65 years and over
• people with health conditions which put them at higher risk
• Care home staff
• Frontline health and social care workers
• People with long-term conditions: heart disease, diabetes, breathing problems, asthma
• People who are immunocompromised
• People who are pregnant
• People in long-stay residential care/hospice
• Cares for older or disabled persons
Why should I get these recommended jabs?
It is now well-proven that the flu and Covid vaccinations are safe and work. However, their protection will wane over time, so a top-up vaccination is needed for continued protection and against new emerging variants.
As we saw during the summer Olympics, even elite athletes can contract Covid-19.
Surely flu and Covid are now mild, just like the common cold?
Flu remains an infection that kills people every year. While we have all lived through the pandemic years, the respiratory distress caused by Covid remains severe and life-threatening. Cases of both pick up over the winter months, hence why the NHS offer of vaccination protection is so important.
What will I be given?
You will receive the NHS-recommended Flu and COVID vaccinations based on previously used vaccines in the programme. They are reengineered yearly for optimum protection.
But I have never caught flu or Covid before...
Many people may not recognise the symptoms they are experiencing as being caused by the infections or may even have no symptoms. Remember that you will still pass the symptoms on, even if you have no symptoms, putting others at risk.
Kellaway Pharmacy remains determined to protect everyone in our community. We know people want a timely, accessible vaccination experience. To make our clinics more accessible, we also offer extended opening hours over the weekends that you can attend. Feel free to call us on 0117 9246579 if you have any further questions.
WESTBURY Happy Days is very popular and we often have 70 plus people attending. After several discussions we have decided that from October, you must book a space and there will be a limit of 40 people. The safety of our members is very important and must be our priority. We also want to provide a service that encourages relationship building and personal connection which is why we have made this decision.
Now, on to the good news. An additional Happy Days will be starting in October on the last Friday of the month. This will be more of a 'Cafe' run session where you will be able to buy drinks and cakes. It will be a relaxed version of Happy Days for conversation, board games and quizzes.
It is essential that you book for either of the cafes which you can do by emailing office@bdaa.org.uk
be
Lego event supports children's charities
LEGO fans of all ages can rejoice as the Bristol Brick Show returns to the city on November 16 and 17 at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Club.
Organised by members of GertLUG, the Bristol based Lego User Group, this family event will showcase Lego models based around themes such as Animal Crossing, Ghostbusters and Ninjago.
In addition, visitors will be able to see the GertLUG collaborative build, which will be based around the iconic Bristol Hot Air Balloons.
Now in its fifth year, the event is entirely ‘not for profit’ and raises money for two charities. The first Bristol Brick Show was set up in 2018 by a group of friends and GertLUG member Nick Amos and ran at Action Indoor Sports, in Whitchurch. Since then, the event has continued to grow and attract more visitors.
A spokesperson for the show said: “We raise money for two fantastic charities that are Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) and Fairy Bricks. CHSW is a local charity that provides hospice care for children and young people with life limiting conditions. Fairy Bricks is an international organisation that provides Lego sets to sick children in
hospitals. We have chosen these charities to bring joy to children, even for a short time, to give them an escape from the hardship they're going through. Last year we raised over £19,000 and this year we hope to raise even more.”
Events such as the Bristol Brick Show enable Lego enthusiasts to connect with likeminded people.
Lego fans come from all over the country
Army of India Medal 17991826 and Army of the Sutlej medal, Moodkee 1845
(and sometimes further) to display their creations ranging from Minecraft to Star Wars.
Visitors can also enjoy watching combat robots in action, building areas to play in, a Find the Minifigure trail, and 'Best in Show' competition and buy new Lego sets.
For more details about the event, including opening times and ticket prices visit https://bristolbrickshow.gertlug.co.uk/
Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21
n WHAT'S ON
Tuesday October 8
n ‘THE BILL POTTER COLLECTION 1938-1988’ Presented by Chris Smith. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RF. 7:30 for 7:45 pm. The meetings are open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is appreciated. Contact: Dave Winter 07947 246259
n ARTS SOCIETY BRISTOL. Our second lecture of the new season will be “ Mixed Doubles- the art of the double portrait - from medieval times to the 20th century” given by Alice Foster. It will be held in Redland Hall, Redmaids’ High, BS9 3AW. Please note new starting time of 7.30 doors opening at 7pm. Check for more information on our website: www.theartssocietybristol.org.uk
n BLAISE COMMUNITY GARDEN, behind Blaise Museum, BS10 7QS. Open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday 10-2. Interesting walled kitchen garden, free to enter, new volunteers welcomed. Plants always available. Events: Café on 19 October 10-2 and WINTER MARKET with Café on 16 November 10-3.
Wednesday October 16
BRISTOL WNO FRIENDS PRESENT WHATEVER HAPPENED TO OPERETTA? IT'S NOT JUST THE MERRY WIDOW! International baritone Donald Maxwell guides us some of the through the highways and byways of this tuneful, intoxicating and unjustly neglected genre. We warmly invite you to The Apostle Room, Clifton Cathedral - 7.00 on Wed. 16th Oct: easy parking, bar. Charge £8/£10/£1. Further info melaniejdavid@ btinternet.com or 01934 842014
Saturday October 12
n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR AUTUMN CONCERT at 7:30pm - All Saints Church, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3ED, Conductor: David Bednall; Organ: Nigel Nash. Join us for a concert celebrating the music of Vaughan Williams, Stanford, Parry, Tallis & Howells. Tickets - £21 (reserved), £15 (unreserved - £12 if bought in advance), £1 students/ under 18s. Web: bristolbach.org.uk Tel: 0117 214 0721 Email: tickets@ bristolbach.org.uk
Monday October 28th
WESTBURY-ON-TRYM’S
VILLAGE HALL ANNUAL
GENERAL MEETING at 7pm
- All welcome, please come along and see your local village hall and join us for our 2023/24 AGM. Complimentary drinks and nibbles will be available after the meeting. We are a local charity and are always looking for new volunteers if you are interested. We look forward to seeing you there. For a/c’s and reports go to - wotvillagehall. ord or email enquiries@wotvillagehall.ord
Monday 28th October
n ONE LIFE (12) 2024 2pm -
One Life tells the true story of Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton, a young London broker who, in the months leading up to World War II, rescued 669 predominantly Jewish children from the Nazis. Starring Anthony Hopkins & Helena Bonham Carter. Carers welcome, easy access Refreshments £4. St. Peter’s Church Hall, The Drive, Henleaze BS9 4LD. For more information please call 0117 435 0063
REGULAR EVENTS
Various days
n WESTBURY WILDLIFE PARK
The park’s peaceful setting, with children’s play area and cafe, is open for you to enjoy with your friends and family from Fridays to Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Refer to the website wwpf.uk for events, activities and volunteering opportunities.n WEST OF ENGLAND BRIDGE CLUB meet at the RAFA Club, 38 Eastfield, Henleaze. Thursday afternoon is for improvers, and Monday and Friday afternoons, are for more capable players. These are EBU recognised sessions. You may come alone to any afternoon session or Wednesday evening when a partner will be found. The two evening sessions are Wednesdays and Fridays. For more information go to our website at www. woebridgeclub.co.uk or contact our Secretary Alan on 0117 4526947.
n TEATIME CHURCH - Children and families are welcome to join us once a month at the back of Holy Trinity Church in Westbury-on-Trym for crafts, games, stories and songs, fol-
lowed by supper for all the children. There is also a baby/toddler area and a monthly Lego challenge. This is a very informal service, where children/adults can learn a little about God and the church in a fun and friendly environment. All are very welcome! Please visit our website for further information and monthly dates https://www. westbury-parish-church.org.uk/ teatime-church/
n WOULD YOU LIKE TO IMPROVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY? North West Bristol Camera Club is a friendly local club with a membership ranging from beginners to those with considerable experience. You will be welcome whether you use a mobile phone or the latest mirrorless camera. Google NWBCC for more details.
n CANFORD BOWLING CLUB season has started again, and new members of any age or experience would be very welcome. Free coaching is available. Our open day is 25th May. Why wait? If interested please email canfordbowlingclub@ gmail.com or ring 07504254499. Come and give it a go.
n BRISTOL HOME LIBRARY SERVICE - We are a free service for any adult who lives in Bristol and who can’t get to their library but still wants books or audio books. Volunteers call monthly. Contact us if you would like to volunteer or know someone who needs us. BHLSVisits@royalvoluntaryservice. org.uk or 07714 898558
n BRISTOL STITCHERS - a friendly, independent creative members group which meets three times a month at Helliwell Room (Horfield Parish Church Hall, Horfield) offering Talks, Meet and Stitch sessions, Meet and Stitch Plus and Workshops. More information here: https://bristolstitchers.wordpress. com/about/ Contact Joanne our Chair here: bristolstitcherschair@ gmail.com
Monday
n PLAY BOWLS at Canford Park in a friendly, social atmosphere. Qualified coaches and equipment provided. Contact: Les on 07305695579
n WESTBURY SINGERS: Westbury Singers - If you enjoy singing, we invite you to join our friendly, non-auditioned, 4-part choir in term-time on Monday evenings 7:30pm - 9:30pm at Reedley Road
Baptist Church (far left entrance off the car park). Ability to read music useful but not essential. See our website www.westburysingers.org for more information, email us on wotsingers@gmail.com, or simply come along one evening!
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.
Mondays & Fridays n FLEDGLINGS AT TRYMWOOD STUDIOS Mondays and Fridays, 9.30am - 10.30am. Joyful, nature-based workshops for 0-4s and their carers. Storytelling, poetry, songs, early-years science and maths and artmaking - all in our 18th century studio, gardens, and meadowlands. For more information and to book a free taster session: www.trymwoodstudios.co.uk info@trymwoodstudios.co.uk
n BRISTOL GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR rehearses at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church (BS9 3AA) 2-4pm (term time only). We are a fun and friendly, non-audition, community choir for both male and female voices - one of 32 Good Afternoon Choirs who ‘sing in the afternoon’ around the South West and further afield. New members are always welcome and, whether you come alone or with a friend, we will be very pleased to meet you! For further details please visit our website – www.goodafternoonchoir.org – or contact us on 01761 472468 or via e-mail at gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk
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
Mondays & Tuesdays
n PILATES classes, Northcote Scout Hall, Great Brockeridge, BS9 3TY Mondays 9:30am (Improvers), 10:30am (Mixed ability); Tuesdays 9:30am (Improvers), 10:30am (Beginners). Small, friendly classes. Please register interest before attending. Full details at www.mindbodypilates.org / Contact Leanne 07817189474 / E: leanne@mindbodypilates.org
Tuesday
n WESTBURY PARK WOMEN’S INSTITUTE meets on the first Tuesday of every month in the Girl Guide Hut on Westmorland Road from 7.00 - 9.30pm. We are an active and friendly group with a varied programme plus extra sessions for craft, coffee, book clubs, walks etc. Visitors are always welcome and for more information do call Sue on 07813795936 or email westburyparkwi@gmail.com
n PILATES WITH JULIE WATERS, Westbury-on-Trym Academy School, Channells Hill, Bristol BS9 3HZ. Tuesday 6.30 pm & 7.30pm term time only. Small friendly groups. Call Julie on 07817 809734 or email jules_waters@hotmail.com for more information.
n COMMUNITY SIGHT LOSS HUB, First Tuesday of each month, 11am1pm at Trinity Church, Henleaze. Join our coffee morning for blind and partially sighted people to socialise with others and receive advice and guidance from our experienced advisors. Tailored support also available by appointment by calling Sight Support West on 0117 322 4885.
n WESTBURY FOLK/COUNTRY DANCING - come along to have some fun folk dancing on Tuesdays 1.30 – -3.30pm at Westbury College in College Road. All dances are called and refreshments are available. FFI contact Christine on 07775 628524 or codonnell100@ btinternet.com.
n A GENTLE WAY TO KEEP FIT & HAVE FUN! Chair Aerobics, Tithe Barn, Shirehampton, Tuesdays, 10-11am, £7. Maintain and progress your strength, stability and balance at our seated and gentle standing exercise class. Songs from every era to enjoy and complement a workout for mind and body wellness. Call Louisa: 07725 091429. Email Louisa: chairaerobicslouisa@ gmail.com
Mondays
n BRISTOL GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR rehearses at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church (BS9 3AA) on Monday afternoons 2.00-4.00pm (term time only). We are a fun and friendly, non-audition, community choir for both male and female voices - one of 32 Good Afternoon Choirs who ‘sing in the afternoon’ around the South West and further afield. New members are always welcome and, whether you come alone or with a friend, we will be very pleased to meet you! For further details please visit our website – www.goodafternoonchoir.org – or contact us on 01761 472468 or via e-mail at gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk
n KEEP FIT WITH DANCE MOVES – at Horfield Methodist Church BS7 8SN, Tuesday mornings, from 10.15- – 11.15am, and at St Peter’s Church, Filton, BS34 7BQ, Tuesday afternoons, 2- – 3pm. Improve your mobility, strength, co-ordination and general wellbeing whilst while having fun and making new friends. Suitable for all ages. Try first session free. For further information contact Eileen Scott on: 07969 929733, or email: scottyartois@hotmail.com
n SCOTTISH DANCING TO GET FIT AND HAVE FUN Bristol Westbury Scottish Country Dance Club. Classes for beginners (Email: maggiekirkup@gmail.com) and more advanced dancers. (Tel: Cheryl 0117 4012416) at St.Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze, 7.30 to 9.30 pm. www. westburyscottish.org.uk
n COMPANION VOICES BRISTOL is recruiting new members . 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 BRISTOL HARMONY WEST GALLERY CHOIR AND BAND sing and play lively church and village music from the 18thcentury. St Edyth’s Church Hall, St Edyth’s Road, Sea Mills, 7.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. All voices (SATB), string, wind and reed instruments welcome. No auditions but
ability to read music helpful. www. bristolharmony.wordpress.com or call Fritjof 0117 924 3440. Contact before attending.
n WOMEN'S FELLOWSHIP meet on Tuesday mornings at Westburyon-Trym Methodist Church, 10.30am-noon. An interesting programme of speakers; come along to make friends. For more details, ring Kate 07905 064720.
n BRISTOL A CAPPELLA: Tuesdays 7.30pm, Victoria Methodist Church. Bristol A Cappella is an awardwinning mixed barbershop chorus of around 30 members who love to sing close harmony a cappella. Our songs are mainly from pop music, with a bit of rock and some musicals. www.bristolacappella.co.uk/ Contact: membership@bristolacappella.co.uk
Tuesday and Saturday n BRISTOL HF RAMBLING CLUB
We are a friendly sociable club with a variety of walks. We have 2 Tuesday walks of either 8-9 miles or 5-6 miles. On Saturdays we have varying length walks including a hill walk eg Brecon Beacons once a month. If you would like more information please visit our website.
Wednesday
n HENLEAZE CHORAL SOCIETYmeets 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 http:// www.henleazechoralsociety.org.uk/ n A CLASS FOR EVERYBODY! Keep Fit, St Peter’s Church, Henleaze, Wednesdays, 10-11am, £7. Improve your health and wellbeing with this low-impact exercise class. With music from the 60s to today’s pop to enjoy a supple strength workout. Call Louisa: 07725 091429. Email Louisa: chairaerobicslouisa@ gmail.com
n A GENTLE WAY TO KEEP FIT & HAVE FUN! Chair Aerobics, St Peter’s Church, Henleaze, Wednesdays, 11.15am-12.15pm, £7. Maintain and progress your strength, stability and balance at our seated and gentle standing exercise class. Songs from every era to enjoy and complement a workout for mind and body wellness. Call Louisa: 07725 091429. Email Louisa: chairaerobicslouisa@ gmail.com
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 BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. For further information contact Tania by email at tanialake@yahoo. co.uk
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 local area. Call 0117 435 0063 for more information.
n COME AND ENJOY free tea and cake in a friendly atmosphere at Holy Trinity Church, Church Rd, Westbury-on-Trym every Wednesday 10.30-12. Call 0117 9508644 (mornings) for more information
n HEALING Spiritual Healing is available from 2pm to 3.30pm by the accredited healing team at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www.westburyparksc.org
n OPEN DEVELOPMENT CIRCLE For those interested in developing their spiritual awareness and mediumistic ability. 7.15 for 7.30 start at Westbury Park Spiritualist Church, Cairns Road BS6 7TH. Just turn up or or visit www.westburyparksc.org
n SWIFTS INCLUSIVE SPORTS swimming sessions are for adults 18+ with any type of disability (hoist available) 7-8pm. £5 per session at Henbury Leisure Centre. Contact Karen Lloyd at 07734 335 878.
Thursday
n TODDLERS TOGETHER is a parent and toddler group for the community. It takes place every Thursday during term time from 10-11.15am at Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church Hall, BS9 3AA. There are toddler toys, a baby area, a weekly craft activity, singing, drinks and biscuits and a final prayer to end the session. We ask for a £2 voluntary donation per family on the door. You can just turn up - no need to pre-book. To find out more about this group, visit https://www.westbury-parishchurch.org.uk/toddler-group/
n SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING Join us for fun, fitness and friendship (singles welcome). First evening free! RSCDS Bristol. New/ Inexperienced dancers 7-8.30pm (£4). Intermediate/Advanced dancers 7.30-10pm, (£6). St.Monica Trust, Oatley House Main Hall, BS9 3TN. www. rscdsbristol.info. Contact Ruth 0117 968 3057.
n FRIENDLY CLUB meets every Thursday from 2 - 4pm in the Methodist Church Hall, W-O-T. We are a lively group of older people who meet to chat, play Scrabble or cards. Trips out and entertainments are arranged, plus we have tea and biscuits for only £1! Do come and make some new friends.
n ARCHITECTURE & BUILDINGS GROUP U3A meets at Henleaze United Reformed Church Meeting Room, Waterford Road, 2-4pm on the fourth Thursday of the month except July, August & December. We are a small shared interest group. No previous knowledge required.
Contact Rod for further information. Email: rodathey@gmail.com or call 07792 200949.
n SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING – Looking for a new hobby? Join us for fun, fitness and friendship (singles welcome). First evening free! Thursdays: New/Inexperienced dancers 7–8.30pm (£4). Intermediate/Advanced dancers 7.30–10pm (£6). St Monica Trust, Oatley House Main Hall, BS9 3TN. www. rscdsbristol.info. Contact Ruth 0117 968 3057.
n LADIES KEEP FIT - – Thursdays 10-11am, St Peter's Church Hall, Henleaze, £7. This friendly, popular session is suitable for all ages, levels and abilities; it is an all-over workout for cardiovascular fitness as well as toning, and has a dance element. Full information on the website: www.exercisewithlailibrooks.com; Email: laili@tiscali.co.uk to book.
n WEST BRISTOL ORCHESTRA is a small, friendly amateur group that enjoys music-making without public performances. It meets on Thursday nights in term time at St. Peter’s Church, Henleaze at 7.15-9.15pm. We would especially welcome more string players. Please visit our website for further details
at maths.bris.ac.uk
n HENBURY SINGERS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS at Stoke Bishop Primary School, Cedar Park BS9 1BW, 7.30 – 9.15, a warm welcome awaits you at Henbury Singers. We perform sacred and secular music under our conductor Andrew Kirk. No auditions. www. henburysingers.org Contact the secretary at secretary@henburysingers.org
n HEALING FOR WELLBEINGFeeling stressed? Healing/Reiki is a gentle, relaxing complementary therapy that helps restore balance and vitality. Drop in sessions with trained volunteers on Thursdays 3.30 - 4.45pm at Redland Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, BS6 6JE. Donation basis. For information and dates, visit www.facebook.com/BristolHealingGroup or contact Selina on 0117 9466434 or selinanewton@ yahoo.co.uk.
n HENLEAZE FLOWER CLUB welcomes new members. Annual membership £52. Demonstration meetings on 2nd Thursday of the month, 2pm, Bradbury Hall Waterford Rd. Henleaze. Plus optional Practice Classes on 4th Thursday. We meet every month except De -
cember and August. Please contact Jenny York, Club Chair yorkjenny2@ yahoo or phone/text 07880 700270 n SINGING TO REMEMBER We meet on 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday from 2 - 3.45 pm in The Bradbury Hall, Waterford Road, Henleaze. It is a friendly, supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. Anyone interested can phone me 0117 9426095 to book a place or discuss.
n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR are now recruiting new members. We are a friendly auditioned choir of between 30 and 40 singers. All voice parts are welcome. We rehearse on a Thursday evening at Bristol Grammar School from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. If interested please contact Julie at membership@bristolbach.org.uk
n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westburyon-Trym Village Hall
n FOLK NIGHT every third Wednesday of the month at the Vic-
toria inn Chock lane, Westbury on Trym. 7.30-10.30pm. All musicians and singers welcome or just pop in and listen. Call 0117 959 0834
n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR
Come and join us at St Peter’s Church Hall. 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.
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 BRISTOL SPANISH CIRCLE -
Come and meet a group of friendly people and enjoy talks in Spanish, musical events and social evenings. We meet every month from September to June, usually on the last Friday of the month, at St Peter’s Church Hall in Henleaze. For info,
see https://www.spanishcirclebristol.com/.
n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www. pete4458.wixsite.com/highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, W-on-T Village Hall n HENLEAZE LADIES’ CHOIR
Come and join us at St Peter’s Church Hall. 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 FOLK NIGHT every third
Wednesday of the month at the Victoria inn Chock lane, Westbury on Trym. 7.30-10.30pm. All musicians and singers welcome or just pop in and listen. Call 0117 959 0834
Saturday n SEA MILLS REPAIR CAFE offers sewing, woodwork, general, electrical and cycle repairs at the Methodist Church, Sea Mills Square, from 10am-12pm, every second Saturday of the month (except August). This is a voluntary service run by experienced repairers. Donations welcome. FFI see Facebook @ seamillsrepaircafe or email: repaircafe.seamills@gmail.com
New bus route needs to be circular
IN your September issue you talk about the new 77 bus.
The 77 bus travels in a “U” from the Eastfield Pub in Henleaze via Whiteladies Rd, the Centre, and Gloucester Rd, to the Wellington Pub on Horfield Common & back. A journey which takes about 45 mins each way. Why would anyone want to do this when to get from the Eastfield Pub in Henleaze to the Wellington Pub on Horfield Common is a five-minute journey along Wellington Hill West & Wellington Hil? Not surprisingly the 77 buses are always quite empty. It just takes too long to get to most places along its route. Which is tragic because it connects many useful places. A simple change could solve this. Change the route from a “U” to a “circular O” by adding in Wellington Hill West & Wellington Hill to the connect the
ends of the current route. Buses would then travel both clockwise & anti-clockwise around this circular route. Every stop on the route would then be no more than a little over 20mins away making it a much more attractive service.
Youth centre saved for the community
NEARLY 1000 supporters signed a petition to ensure that a local youth centre and memorial garden could remain open. The success of the campaign has led to the cancellation of Bristol City Council’s planned public auction of the Southmead Youth Centre and Memorial Garden on Greystoke Avenue.
The Memorial Garden was built over 20 years ago in remembrance of three young local people who lost their lives in the same year. When youth services were lost due to Covid in October 2020, the youth centre building was taken on by the Roger Gracie North Bristol martial arts club. The club is owned and run by brothers, Luke and Clayton Chamberlain, and has now grown to over 500 members of all ages from across north Bristol.
Regarded as a safe and positive space, the club has a huge social impact on the local community, offering a range of programmes, such as supporting more than 30 vulnerable women from the community with a
free weekly women's only selfdefence jiu jitsu class, providing scholarships for children whose families struggle with costs, and mentoring support.
The Memorial Garden is maintained by local resident
and former youth worker, Billy Cockram, along with support from the Roger Gracie martial arts club, who have also maintained and developed the youth centre building into a thriving space.
The success of the campaign in saving the centre means that its work can continue, along with retaining the current care service in the former Southmead library building. Should this space become vacant, the club plans to transform into a wellness and fitness hub, including a dedicated community area with a cafe to bring people together and build stronger social bonds.
Luke Chamberlain, who was instrumental in leading the campaign, said of the victory, “It’s about community, it’s about caring for people and now we can continue to do that.”
n COMMUNITY NEWS Charity shop in line for award
STAFF at the St Peter’s Hospice charity shop on North View, Westbury Park, are waiting for the results of a national award contest.
The shop was recently shortlisted for The UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Award. Nearly 6,500 charity shops were nominated across the UK, so they are hugely honoured to have been one of those shortlisted for the South West region.
Comments made during the nomination stage, which led to the shop being selected for the shortlist, included: “There are always such wonderful window displays which make me come in and spend! I’ve got some great bargains for a great cause.” “Always looks amazing, and everyone who volunteers there is so friendly.” “An eye-catching window display entices you in and friendly staff are always available to help. The shop is well organised and creatively arranged to make it unique. I will pop in for a browse whenever I can.”
Members of the public were then asked to vote for their favourite charity shop from the shortlist of six shops in each region, with 12 regional winning shops and one overall UK winner announced at a special event in November.
Fireworks back with a bang
THE annual Bristol Fireworks Fiesta will return to Canford Park, Westbury-on-Trym on Saturday November 2. Organised by Bristol Round Table and the Rotary Club of Clifton, tickets are on sale now as advance purchase only from the website (www.bristolfireworksfiesta.co.uk). As in previous years, proceeds will go to support local charities and other good causes in the area. New for this year, Party Peeps, will be around to keep the crowds entertained in the run-up to the display and will host a ‘Foam Party’ to end the night once the pyrotechnics are over.
n NEWS
Weird and wonderful
HALLOWEEN at the end of this month gives many businesses a theme for displays and decorations.
Among them is Sarah Thorp of Room 212, who says she was inspired after visiting the UWE graduate show and being impressed by the work of a recent illustration graduate who calls herself Batty Deville.
“I put her work Monsters are a Ghoul's Best Friend in the window and had such amazing reaction that I've decided to create a Halloween display based around it. I'll be pulling in other weird and wonderful Halloween and Day of the Dead inspired work by Room 212 artists,” Sarah told the Voice.
The display is set to include new work by Batty Deville as well as some crazy upcycled Barbies and Kens by Lou’s Dollirium=, quirky cards by
Maita Robinson and original paintings by Gargoyle Dream "Now the summer’s pretty much over we need plans to keep joy and fun going as the autumn rolls in!" says Sarah. To find out more, visit https://www.room212.co.uk/ artist/batty-deville
n VINEYARD NEWS with INGRID BATES
Keeping wasps and other wildlife at bay
THE weather is changing, the growing season is drawing to a close and harvest time is fast approaching. In the vineyard there aren’t a huge amount of jobs to do because the grass and the vines have stopped growing. The grapes are slowly ripening and we’re starting to work out when we will pick them. As the sugar levels start rising, the grapes they suddenly become interesting to birds and other wildlife. We’ve protected the red grapes by putting up netting which also seems to help deter the hungry wasps that have suddenly appeared. Thankfully the birds don’t show as much interest in the white grapes so we don’t have to spend time covering the whole vineyard.
In a couple of weeks there will be a flurry of activity as we pick the grapes and then it’ll all be over for another year!
RESIDENTS, voluntary organisations and city leaders came together to celebrate one year of the Community Resilience Fund and share their stories of the projects that have been delivered through £4 million investment from the council.
The council also announced the launch of a new Bristol Community Festivalthat will take place 22 March to 5 April 2025.
The fund aims to invest in the recovery and resilience of the Voluntary, Community and Sector Enterprise (VCSE) sector following the pandemic.
In total, 55 community and voluntary sector projects were chosen to receive funding in the first year. A list of recipients and funded projects can be found on the council’s website.
Councillor Stephen Williams, Chair of the Communities and Public Health Committee, said: “It was a wonderful opportunity to hear about some of the projects that have been
funded through the Community Resilience Fund that will help VCSE organisations to continue their important work for years to come.
“The innovative communityled approach that was taken really allowed residents to be at the forefront of the decision making and meant they could have a say in the things they need and want to see happen. I hope we can continue to keep building these relationships and use collaborative approaches to decisions again in future.”
The new Bristol Community Festival will take place in community venues across the city to celebrate and encourage social action. Any group or organisation is welcome to organise an event as part of the festival. A limited number of grants will be available to eligible community groups and voluntary organisations to support this.
Applications are now open on the council website and will close on Monday 21 October.
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Time to have your say on policing
AS your Police and Crime Commissioner, my role is to ensure that the voices of people in Avon and Somerset are central to the policing strategy.
Today, I’m inviting you to help shape the future of local policing by participating in several key initiatives.
I’m pleased to announce the launch of a public consultation on the draft Police and Crime Plan. This plan will set the priorities for Avon and Somerset Police through to 2029, and it’s essential that it reflects what matters to you.
The plan focuses on five key priorities:
• Strengthening neighbourhood policing: ensuring a visible police presence that actively engages with communities and tackles antisocial behaviour.
• Reducing violent crime: addressing male violence against women and girls, as well as serious youth violence.
• Preventing crime: collaborating with other organisations and the public to build safer communities.
• Supporting victims: ensuring victims receive the help they need, when they need it.
• Improving policing standards: providing a fair and effective police service.
This consultation is your opportunity to comment on the draft plan and suggest how these priorities can be implemented.
Additionally, I’m seeking your views on local police funding, particularly regarding how much extra, if any, you would be willing to contribute through your council tax.
Your insights are vital to ensuring the plan reflects the needs and concerns of your community.
The consultation is open until the end of October.
You can participate by completing the survey online or by attending one of my public forums.
The forums are attended by myself, local policing leads, and my team, providing an opportunity for us to hear from you directly.
To find out more, visit the Police and Crime Plan page on my website,
www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.
Your voice matters — I look forward to hearing your views as we address these important issues together.
I recently marked my first 100 days in office. I have really enjoyed them, and I feel privileged to represent all the diverse communities of Avon and Somerset. I have visited police teams, community leaders, charities, community interest companies, commissioned services, local authority leaders, statutory partners and business leaders in Bath & North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Somerset, North Somerset and finally Bristol.
It’s been a steep learning curve, and there has been so much to take on board, but luckily I am someone who really enjoys being in the detail and I’ve been reading reports, meeting people, having conversations and learning in greater depth about the policing issues faced by communities in our area.
Meeting the police leaders and many teams in different departments
With Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody
has been invaluable in developing my understanding of some of the challenges we face.
Getting out and about and meeting people face-to-face in my community engagement days has been brilliant in helping me to understand how much is being done in terms of supporting victims and working with young people to support their futures.
It has made me realise just how many excellent individuals there are in key roles and organisations, who are using their roles to really make a difference.
n TURNER'S VISION
Back-to-school vision check
As the school year begins and children either head back to school or start for the first time, it's crucial to ensure their vision is in top shape.
Vision problems like myopia (shortsightedness) or amblyopia (lazy eye) are more common than many realise and can affect nearly every aspect of a child's development, including academics, sports, social interactions and self-esteem. With an estimated 1.6 million school-aged children in England living with an undiagnosed vision problem, a comprehensive eye exam is essential for identifying any issues early.
Peter Turner of Turners Opticians 0117 962 2474 0117 965 4434
www.turnersopticians.co.uk
Watch for These Symptoms: Some signs of vision problems might be mistaken for behavioural issues or learning disabilities such as difficulty organising tasks or prioritising work, relying heavily on pictures to “read” or memorising through listening, inattention or disruptive behaviour in class and a lack of interest in reading or refusal to do homework.
● If you notice any of the following symptoms in your child, it could indicate a vision issue that needs attention:
● Frequent blinking or rubbing of the eyes
● Struggling to stay focused on tasks
● Constant headaches ● Covering one eye or tilting the head to one side
● Holding books or screens close to their face
● Difficulty remembering what they read
If undiagnosed, vision problems could even be mistaken for other conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, or behavioural issues, which can have long-lasting effects on a child's education and overall well-being. At Turners Opticians, we have years of experience helping children with their vision and are happy to assess children of any age with an advanced eye examination.
The Right Fit: Why Proper Glasses Matter: A poorly fitted pair of glasses can lead to further complications, as a child's developing brain and eyes must work together to align correctly, so it’s important that glasses fit well and have the right lenses to match the prescription. Children under 16 should visit their opticians every year, regardless of whether they need glasses or not.
At Turners Opticians, we're here to support your child’s vision and eye health every step of the way. Our skilled optometrists take the time to carefully assess your child’s vision, ensuring that no potential problem goes unnoticed. Our expert team will even assist in choosing their frames so your child can feel confident and happy with their new look wherever they wear their glasses.
If you have any concerns about your child's vision or eye health, now is the perfect time to book an appointment. Call our Henleaze team at 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds team at 0117 965 4434, or visit our website, www. turnersopticians.co.uk.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Peter Turner is an Independent Prescribing Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol, who also works as a Senior Medical Optometrist at Bristol Eye Hospital. Peter has a specialist interest in visual development and visual performance.
n SPORT
BRISTOL Arrow Bowling Club has celebrated its 130th anniversary.
It is one of the oldest clubs in the region and has been playing at its current green in Redland Road for more than a century.
The mixed club has about 50 members and plays in the Bristol and District League and the North East League as well as friendly games. It also holds a number of special events during the season, which runs from April to October.
The celebrations included a match against two other longstanding rivals, Mackintosh Bowls Club (Cardiff) and Victoria Bowls Club in Westonsuper-Mare.
HISTORY:
1894 Bristol Arrow formed, playing at the County Ground 1900 First match with Victoria (Weston-super-Mare) on 26 July at the County Ground. Bristol Arrow won! On 15 September, Victoria won the return in the grounds of the Winter Gardens.
1902 The West of England and South Wales Coronation Bowling League was formed with four
clubs: Arrow, Victoria (Weston), Macintosh (Cardiff) and Pontypool. Cardiff won.
1903 WG Grace challenged Arrow's
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founder, J.W.Arrowsmith, to a match. It was played over three rinks at the County Ground on June 25. WG’s London County team
played a team consisting of four players each from Arrow, Victoria and Mackintosh. The combined team beat London by 75-52.
