Sir Keir Starmer at the new diagnostic centre
Photo: Simon Dawson / 10 Downing Street
Below: Darren Jones MP with NHS and Inside Health at the CDC
Cutting NHS waiting times
NORTH Bristol's Community Diagnostic Centre has been in the spotlight for the role it is playing in helping to cut waiting times for NHS treatment.
More than 30,000 people have attended the centre since it opened at Cribbs Causeway last year. GPs at some local practices or via the two Bristol hospital trusts can refer people
directly for diagnostic tests, including CT, MRI, endoscopy, and respiratory checks.
The centre has been developed in partnership with independent provider Inside Health. It started in April in temporary buildings before moving to permanent premises next to Asda is open 12 hours a day, seven days a week.
North Bristol NHS Trust
says it has helped reduce the proportion of people waiting more than six weeks for an appointment to to below the national standard of five per cent or lower.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited last month and talked to radiographers, endoscopists, nurses and reception staff about their work.
A caravan fire on the Downs last month provoked a debate about the future of the hundreds of van dwellers in Bristol. PAGE 3
Wilsons restaurant in Chandos Road, Redland, is celebrating its first Michelin star. PAGE 4
The family of Jack O'Sullivan are facing the anniversary of his disappearance after a night out. PAGE 7
£4.8 million revamp of Horfield Leisure Centre has been completed. PAGE 8
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Caravan fire prompts call for action
A CARAVAN fire on the Downs last month provoked a debate about the future of the hundreds of van dwellers in Bristol.
About 800 people are thought to live in between 600 and 650 vans and caravans, and the city has the highest number of vehicle dwellers across the country.
The fire, which is thought to have been started deliberately, destroyed a caravan in a row of vehicles along one road on the Downs. Neighbours are growing frustrated with the “eyesores”, with common complaints of litter and toilet waste dumped into bins and drains.
But people living in vehicles say the problems are due to a small minority of van dwellers, and Bristol City Council should install more bins and provide washing facilities. Many residents urged councillors on the housing policy committee on February 14 to take action.
One said: “Last night on Saville Road a caravan was burnt out, so it certainly isn’t safe for these people to live that way. I don’t know why you don’t move these people down to Avonmouth on a disused industrial site, there’s plenty of them down there.
“What’s going on in Bristol is not right. I’ve had caravans for many years. I lived in my caravan for three months when a house sale fell through, and I thoroughly enjoyed it — on proper sites with water, toilet facilities and everything else. Come on, get your act together.”
Another added: “I’m the closest house to van dwellers on Saville Road. Human excrement is in trees and bushes and poured down the drains next to my front door. My four-year-old has inadvertently picked up tampons, drug baggies and seen a lot more, including syringes. Our residential bins are used for human waste, as are the bins on the Downs.
“Last night at about 11pm there was an explosion outside my house while I was trying to get my little girl to bed. Three more gas canisters exploded. The wind was blowing the embers on to my roof. I was fearful for the
infant upstairs trying to get to sleep. If this isn’t a wake-up call, then I really don’t know what is.”
Firefighters were called at 11.24pm on February 13, about the caravan on fire on Saville Road. They believe the blaze was started deliberately. Avon and Somerset Police officers also attended the scene, to make sure the surrounding area was safe. The police said they were not aware of anyone being injured, and enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause.
After the council meeting, two vehicle dwellers were walking their dog along the Downs, near the burned out caravan. Holly lives in a van and stays on the Downs “fairly regularly”, while Rick lives in a boat. Both declined to offer their surnames, but gave their views on the debate. They called for more bins to be installed, as well as taps and washing facilities.
Holly, a director of a fashion company, said: “I haven’t witnessed tension between residents and people parked up here. In any group you’ve got a few people who are going to let the side down and leave rubbish around.
"The people living here want to continue doing it, so they don’t want to cause a fuss or make a problem, and it’s also their homes, so
they don’t litter around there.
“With the cost of living and renting in Bristol, some people are here because they have no other option. Some people are here because it’s their heritage. My parents lived on the road, I was brought up like this.
“There should be the right to do this for the people who choose to, but also the resources for the people who are forced into it, so they don’t have to if that’s not what they want. It’s obvious they chose not to put bins on this side of the Downs where people are more likely to park up. If the problem is rubbish, put more bins in. The litter from what I’ve seen here is incredibly minimal.”
Another issue is that people need a proof of a permanent address to use the tips, which many people in vans don’t have.
Rick, a marine engineer, added: “There’s thousands of people who live around here, and there’s five people who get really angry. There’s thousands of people who don’t care and who get on really well and wave as they go past. People need to start talking and sharing gifts.”
The council is now planning to establish service sites for van dwellers, with water, waste disposal and washing machines. These could be set up in supermarket car parks close to a petrol station.
Another plan is to establish a formal “vehicle dweller voices” group, to represent the views of people living in vans to the council. Two meanwhile sites, with toilets and taps, could also be turned into permanent van dwelling places.
Green Councillor Barry Parsons, chair of the housing committee, said: “The council’s approach towards working with vehicle dwellers isn’t any longer sustainable. These proposals have at their core a concern for the wellbeing of vehicle dwellers and neighbouring communities.”
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service
A line of caravans at Saville Road
henleaze&westburyvoice
n NEWS
Restaurant celebrates first Michelin star
THREE Chandos Road restaurants are in the spotlight after their success in the UK’s top food awards.
Wilsons is celebrating its first Michelin star while Dongnae took an honour at the Good Food Guide Awards and Little Hollows received a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
Wilsons, which opened in 2016, already had a Michelin green star for its commitment to sustainability and now has the soughtafter accolade of a full star. This is granted to restaurants that deliver outstanding cooking and exceptional dining experiences.
Owners Jan Ostler and Mary Wilson pride themselves on their “farm-to-table” menu. Chef Jan oversees the kitchen, basing menus on the fruit and vegetables grown by Mary on their two-acre market garden in Barrow Gurney. Produce is also preserved for future use as well as for sale in The Bread Shop, which they also run, just a few doors away from the bistro,
The Michelin inspectors noted: “There is so much to enjoy, and so much to admire, when dining at Wilsons. It’s one of those appealing neighbourhood operations that works in pure harmony, with everyone from the chefs to the service team sharing the same ethos. “
Jan said: “Mary and I feel incredibly proud to have received this honour from Michelin. Our goal has always been to create something that reflects our values and passion and that serves Bristol and our local
POPULAR restaurant Indian Kitchen, on Westbury-onTrym’s High Street, was a finalist in the National Curry Awards, shortlisted for Curry Kitchen of the Year - one of the nine award categories for 2025.
Offering a range of freshly made Indian dishes made with their own spices, the restaurant is run by head chef, Mr Sharma, who originally started off as a
community. This award is testament to the dedication of our entire team, as well as the incredible farmers, producers and the people of Bristol who continuously support us.”
Korean restaurant Dongnae, which opened six months ago, won the ‘Chef to Watch’ category at the 2025 Good Food Guide awards.
The restaurant is run by Duncan Robertson and his wife Kyu Jeong Jeon. The couple met in Paris, then moved to SouthWest France where they opened and ran a Michelin-starred restaurant, before living for nine years in South Korea.
They opened Dongnae, which means neighbourhood, last year as a partner to their restaurant, Bokman, on Nine Tree Hill, off
Stokes Croft.
After the award ceremony in London, Duncan said: “We were shocked – we’d convinced ourselves that weren’t going to win, especially as the other five or six on the shortlist were all such well-respected chefs.”
Asked how Dongnae had been nominated, Duncan admitted that he didn’t know. “Inspectors come anonymously, write a review and then contact you if you are going into the Guide, but I have no idea who nominated us for an award.”
The annual Good Food Awards recognise the “chefs and restaurateurs who have earned their place at the top over the past year”.
Artisan pasta and Italian food restaurant, Little Hollows, was delighted to be one of three new Bristol recipients of the Bib Gourmand, which honours eateries “committed to offering affordable, highquality cooking”.
The Michelin Guide, launched at an event in Glasgow, said of Little Hollows: “Bristol's pasta-lovers are really being spoilt with this rustic bistro run by a charming and knowledgeable team."
Chris Davis, owner, said, "Being awarded a Bib Gourmand came as a complete, but very pleasant surprise, for the whole team here at Little Hollows Pasta. This award is testament to all the hard work, dedication and love for the Bristol hospitality scene we all share here."
Curry house is a hot favourite
young chef at the five-star Taj Palace Hotel in Delhi. He said:
"Cooking to me is genuinely everything. This profession has allowed me to support my family over the years by serving authentic, flavour-filled food.
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and training later, I utilised my knowledge and skills as a head chef in many restaurants across England. The customer satisfaction I have seen in these places is what I hope and work towards seeing here in this kitchen."
The Asian catering industry is valued at around £5billion.
The award ceremony was held in Manchester, after the Voice went to print.
Watch this space for details of how the Indian Kitchen's fare fared!
MIKE PALMER BUILDING
Mary Wilson and Jan Ostler
Dementia Hub ready
BRISTOL Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA) is launching its Happy Days Hub – a dementia and ageing well resource for people concerned about or affected by dementia.
The Hub will open on Mondays and Fridays with a community café open to all, 10am-2pm at Ambition House, 2 Stiles Acres, Lawrence Weston. It will host a variety of social groups including memory cafes and carer support groups.
The opening event is on March 24 at 2pm. All welcome.
Lisa Dicker, development manager at BDAA, said volunteers would be needed for a variety of key roles including supporting the café, helping with activities, or being companions at the groups."
Details about volunteering can be found at: bdaa.org.uk/ volunteering/ or email office@ bdaa.org.uk.
Petition on bus link
Local residents living in Horfield and Manor Farm have launched a petition to be submitted to the Director of First Bus, asking for an extension to the new 77 bus route which would serve their area even better.
Whilst welcoming the introduction of new routes, they feel that the new 77 route has room for improvement to connect them to Henleaze, Gloucester Road, and beyond.
Anna George, who started the petition, said, “The route of the new 77 is very clearly V-shaped. It fails to serve Horfield residents, as it barely comes into the area, and does not offer the service that residents in the Manor Farm and Wellington Hill West areas in particular would value.”
She added, “There is no easy link for us to many shopping
facilities by bus as it stands - it just duplicates on the right-hand side of the V the 75 and 76 routes which also serve that stretch and beyond northwards.”
Locals suggest that a closing of the loop and taking the route along Wellington Hill West, which runs along the edge of Manor Farm, would result in a very useful and well-used service. Were the missing link to be added to the 77, they would have a “terrific bus service” that could take the local community to Henleaze’s shopping street one way and the whole of the Gloucester Road shops and other services the other way. The loop could be closed by either taking it through the hospital (through the Hospital Transport Hub) or along Wellington Hill West.
The petition can be signed at: https://tinyurl.com/44jzu3ab
Zara's mission
TEACHER Zara Kindred is making a special journey in memory of her father, Rob.
Zara plans to cycle and walk 150 miles over six days from the Dartington Crystal factory in Great Torrington, where her dad worked, to St Peter’s Hospice in Brentry, where he spent the last eight weeks of his life in 2015.
Zara, who teaches health and social care at Montpelier High School in Cheltenham Road, said: “This year marks the tenth anniversary of my dad’s death, and I am determined to honour him by finishing a pledge that I made with my mum and brother – to raise £18,000 for the incredible care provided by St Peter’s Hospice. We have raised over £13,500, and we are hoping to raise a further £4,500 to achieve our goal.”
www.gofundme.com/f/ zaras150-mile-challenge-for-stpetershospice
n NEWS
Where's Jack? Family's year of heartache
CAN any of us imagine the agony of not knowing where your child is? A year on, the family of 23-year-old Jack O’Sullivan remains in anguish after Jack never returned home from a night out at a party in Bristol in the early hours of March 2 2024.
Many will recognise Jack from the posters and billboards across the city and around North Somerset, all simply pleading ‘Find Jack’. For his mother Catherine, father Alan and older brother Ben, these last 12 months have been ones no family should have to endure.
A history graduate from Exeter University, living with his parents in Flax Bourton while studying for a law conversion degree, Jack was at a party at a flat in Hotwells on March 1. He called his mother at 1am to say he would get a taxi home, and was thought to leave the party 3am on March 2. After unsuccessfully calling a friend at 3.24am, the friend returned the call at 3.30am, but the call
Jack O'Sullivan
disconnected after Jack said “hello”. CCTV images showed Jack at the top of a slip road near the Cumberland Basin at 3.40am, after failing to get a taxi. This was the last known sighting of Jack. He has not been seen or heard from since. However, his phone was still active, placing him at an address near Granby Hill at 5.40am, and continuing to be live until 6.44am.
Since that time, Jack’s 23rd birthday has passed; Christmas has been and gone in an unbearable limbo and the family are no closer to answers as to what has become of him. His mother, Catherine, recently said: “To see my other son and my husband, the amount of pain that
n COMMUNITY NEWS
WESTBURY ON TRYM SOCIETY
MEMBERS of the Westbury on Trym Society have been working recently with Bristol Parks in Canford Park.
The flower beds in the sunken garden around the pond were re-planted prior to Covid with the assistance of Society members. However, a lack of maintenance since then has left them overgrown and weed infested, with the planting largely left to fend for itself. Members have stepped up to commence the task of removing the weeds and cutting back growth. After just three sessions, some order is being restored and many daffodil bulbs have been planted to provide some spring colour.
Alongside this work, the Society hopes to assist by clearing the remains of the algae bloom that led to the pond being fenced off last summer. The pond will first need to be partially drained due to the amount of rain filling the pond this winter. If you would like to join in our work in Canford Park, we meet at the sunken garden on the last Friday of the month at 10am. Andy Renshaw, chairman of Westbury on Trym Society, would be pleased
Members hard at work
to hear from you beforehand on 07769 686500.
The Society is getting ready to launch its annual Flower Fund appeal. The appeal has ensured the continuation of the floral displays in the village, which are much appreciated by residents and visitors. The wonderful displays are provided and watered through the city council’s team at Blaise nurseries, but are entirely funded through donations from residents and businesses, with the shortfall last year of just over £3,000 being covered by the Society’s own funds.
they’re in, is at times too much. But we have to somehow find the strength to get up and keep going because we owe that to Jack.”
Their agony is compounded by their continued belief that they have been let down by Avon and Somerset Police, who they feel have long held on to the assumption that Jack fell into the water, despite no evidence or indication that this was so.
Three months after Jack’s disappearance, Catherine was given access to CCTV footage in which she discovered two sightings the police had missed.
In October, the phone company EE finally provided data about his phone, after the police said they could not share any information accessed from the phone with his family. Data has been sent to cyber experts who continue to analyse its contents. The family have filed an official complaint about the police handling of the case.
“For me, it’s become a fulltime job,” says Catherine. “From
the time I get up to the time I go to bed, I’m doing something related to this. I don’t think anything on earth could prepare you for some of the things we’ve gone through. We somehow keep going but it’s taken a massive toll on us as a family.”
Crowdfunding has paid for search teams, dogs and private investigators. Facebook groups, a website– findjackosullivan. co.uk – and an email address –findjack23@gmail.com – keep the appeal in the public eye.
Back in December, a police spokesperson said: “We’re grateful for the public’s ongoing support of this investigation. Our priority remains focused on finding out what happened to Jack and giving his family the answers they desperately need.”
Now, at an anniversary this close-knit family never wanted to see, the search continues relentlessly to solve the mystery of a kind, loving young man who didn’t reach home.
By Rosie Watson
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n NEWS
Leisure centre gets £4.8m new lease of life
THE £4.8m revamp of Horfield Leisure Centre in Bristol is complete.
The centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with Bristol City Council, now has an extended gym with state-ofthe art equipment, a mezzanine floor, and a new studio with group cycling area.
Upgrades also include a Bristol themed soft play, a modernised extended café and a refurbished reception, while the squash courts, sports hall and changing facilities have been given a new look.
Horfield Leisure Centre is home to a wide variety of leisure activities, including a sports hall, tennis courts, 25m pool and more than 150 sports classes hosted each week.
The investment in the centre includes more green energy saving initiatives, such as an additional 120 rooftop solar panels and LED lighting throughout the building.
Gold medallist Harry Aikines-Aryeetey celebrates the new look for Horfield Leisure Centre
A family fun day was due to take place on February 22 to celebrate the completion of the project, with guest appearance from Team GB sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and professional freestyle footballer Rebaz Mohammed.
Harry has won medals at each of the past three Commonwealth
Games, including gold at Birmingham 2022 and Gold Coast 2018. He is also a three-times gold medallist at the European Championships and appeared on Celebrity MasterChef and the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special. Rebaz Mohammed is one of the UK’s most successful
professional football freestylers and holds six Guinness World Records. His speciality is teaching freestyle skills to children having worked with hundreds of schools throughout his career.
Both athletes were due to be part of the formal ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Cameron Bate, contract manager for Everyone Active, said: “We want to show as many people as possible the stateof-the-art facilities on their doorstep, which have something for everyone, no matter what your age, interests or ability. ”
Councillor Stephen Williams, chair of the Public Health and Communities Committee, a regular user of the centre, said: ‘I’m delighted that the refurbishment of Horfield Leisure Centre is complete, giving people a fabulous new gym with a transformed front of house with a new café and soft play facility.”
Boy's thanks to hospital
JUNIOR and Mini events have been introduced to the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run for the first time this year – and a nineyear-old runner from Horfield will be one of the keenest participants.
Reuben Tushingham is looking forward to the 2.5k Junior event (for runners aged nine to 15), which will take place on Saturday May 10, the day before the 10k and half marathon events, while his fiveyear-old sister Iona is set to run in the 1.5k Mini, for three to eight-year-olds.
They will be part of a family team of 15 children taking part in the runs in support of Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the charity for Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Reuben, a pupil at Ashley Down Primary School, has been preparing by joining the Horfield Common junior parkrun with his friends and playing football with his team, Ashley Down FC.
Reuben took part in the Family Run at last year’s Great Bristol Run, when he raised more than £1,000– far outstripping his initial target of £50. He and his team aim to do even better in 2025.
For Reuben, the run is not only a chance to have fun while raising funds, but is symbolic of how far he’s come since his
early years.
Reuben was born with talipes (also known as club foot), which happens when the Achilles tendon is too short and causes the foot to turn in and under. Both Reuben’s feet were affected, but thanks to extensive treatment he’s now able to walk, play football, ride his bike – and run.
Parents David and Becca are full of praise for the hospital. “When Reuben was born we didn’t know what to expect, so to see him take part in this run makes us beyond delighted, ” said David.
Reuben added: “Bristol Children’s Hospital cared for me so that today I can do runs like this one! They gave me boots and a bar, operated on my feet, gave me new splints to wear and plaster casts when I needed them. They taught me stretches that I need to do as I grow. They made me feel safe and they cheered me on through my treatment. Because of their kindness and hard work, I can play football with my friends and ride my bike!”
The Junior and Mini runs are being introduced in place of the Family Run, giving more opportunities for children to take part in their own running challenge, while freeing up time on the main race day.
David and Reuben Tushingham at last year's Great Bristol Run
n NEWS
Book celebrates the work of writer David Foot
A BOOK has been published to celebrate the life of the journalist and author David Foot, who spent many years living with his family in Westbury-on-Trym.
The book spans the range of David’s work from football and cricket reports to theatre reviews as well as stories about local history and murders that he covered as a reporter. David also wrote more than 20 books, primarily about cricket. His books included biographies of cricketers Harold Gimblett and Wally Hammond.
David was born in the Somerset village of East Coker in 1929, living as a child in a cottage without electricity or running water.
He began his journalistic career as a
WHEN I give talks about my work on ‘The Women Who Built Bristol’ project (which I do frequently), I am guaranteed to be asked two questions. One is where I find the women who I write about. The other is if I will ever run out of women to write about. The second question is easier to answer than the first.
So, where do I find the women I write about? Honestly, I get asked this question so much that I wrote a 5,000-word chapter attempting to answer this, which is included in Volume Two of ‘The Women Who Built Bristol’. In short: from all over the place. If there was already an existing repository of fascinating women, there would have been no need for me to have spent the past eight years working on these books!
After ticking off the so-say ‘obvious’ women from Bristol’s past (eg Mary Carpenter, Hannah More, Annie Kenney and co), there comes the much more fun task of really digging around to unearth the forgotten gems. Which means I
16-year-old school-leaver on the Western Gazette in Yeovil - not far from his home - before moving to the Bristol Evening World in 1955. When he was covering a football match one Saturday in the early 1960s, the Evening World, which was in a circulation battle with its rival, the Bristol Evening Post, closed with immediate effect. It was then that David decided to become a freelance journalist. For many years he covered regional drama productions for The Guardian as well as football and cricket for the paper. He wrote the first review of the first production of a play by Harold Pinter. David Foot also had close ties for years with Television Wales and West (TWW) –
forerunner of HTV – and the BBC in Bristol. For thirty years he wrote a weekly sports column for the Western Daily Press.
This book called Footprints: David Foot’s lifetime of writing has been written and edited by Stephen Chalke, a cricket writer and publisher of David’s last four books. He said: “I am grateful to David’s son Mark for encouraging me to write the book then undertaking the demanding task of sorting through his father’s work.”
David died in May 2021 at the age of 92. The book can be obtained through all the usual retail outlets, priced at £22 or direct from Stephen Chalke for £15 at 125 Garnet Street, Bristol BS3 3JH. 01174 523760
Waving the flag for wonderful women
The Women Who Built Bristol: Volume 3 will be published on March 3 in time for International Women’s Day. Author JANE DUFFUS shares some of the behind-the-scenes stories from this popular series.
have ended up finding women to research from street signs, building names, plaques in church walls, throwaway mentions online, or when somebody emails to suggest somebody to me.
An easier question to answer is will I ever run out of women to write about. And the short answer is: no.
Volumes One, Two and Three each contain 250 different women from Bristol’s past. Quick maths bring that tally to 750 women.
There are also a bonus 10 women in a limited-edition booklet (Volume 3.1) that has been produced this month as a thankyou for people who pre-order Volume Three directly from me, which means there are now 760 women in The Women Who Built Bristol’s archives. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Everyone gasps when I give talks and tick off these numbers, and I agree that 760 sounds impressive. But if you think that the books
cover roughly a 1,000 year period, then that’s not even one woman a year. There are still thousands of women out there just waiting to have their stories shared.
For a signed copy of any books in The Women Who Built Bristol series, please order direct from Jane at: janeduffus.com. All pre-orders of Volume Three come with a free gift.
RICHENDA ROBINSON (1889-1950) is featured in Volume Three
Born in Sneyd Park, Richenda Abbott married Harold Robinson in 1911, a man whose grandfather had established the paper merchants ES&A Robinson in Bedminster. As such, she lived a life of great comfort at Cote House in Westbury-on-Trym.
By the time of World War Two, Richenda was a member of Bristol Soroptimists. Keen to support the war effort, the group established a residential club and canteen for servicewomen with the aim of providing short-term hostel accommodation. Called the Soroptimist Venture Club for Service Girls, it was at 15 Upper Belgrave Road, Clifton. Richenda was the President of Bristol Soroptimists and oversaw the running of the club, which was officially recognised by the government’s war office. The hostel was the location for the club's 1943 Christmas party and Soroptimist groups in the US sent generous gifts for the servicewomen staying there. Richenda also offered use of Cote House for fundraising events.
When she died in 1950, Richenda left a considerable legacy in her will and she stipulated that the sum of £1,000 should be divided up between the servants at her home in gratitude for their work.
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School joins GDST
REDMAIDS’ High School in Bristol has joined the Girls’ Day School Trust family of schools.
The GDST, founded more than 150 years ago, is a group of 26 independent schools and academies, recognised as global leaders in girls’ education.
Redmaids’ High is this year celebrating 390 years of educating girls.
Cheryl Giovannoni, chief executive of the GDST, said: “As the first standalone school to join the GDST in 17 years, we could not be more pleased to welcome such a fine school to the GDST.”
Paul Dwyer, head of Redmaids’ High said: “As we embark on this exciting new journey with the GDST, we proudly celebrate 390 years of excellence in girls’ education, a legacy that perfectly aligns with our new chapter as part of a family of like-minded and vibrant schools.”
Community raises £3k Computer says Yes
PARENTS and friends have raised more than £3,000 to install a prayer washroom at Fairfield High School.
Mohamed Osman, a community governor and parent, started an online fundraising appeal for the facility in the school – and the money came in within ten days.
It will mean that Muslim students can perform the important ritual cleansing of wudu, involving the washing of hands, face, arms and feet before prayer, in a dedicated, purpose-built facility. Up to now, students have had to use the disabled toilets.
Mohamed Osman said the wudu room would reflect respect, inclusion and faith.
“I am thrilled that we have successfully reached our target to fund wudu facilities for Fairfield High School,” he said.
“Subhan Allah, this incredible achievement speaks
volumes about the generosity and unity of our community. I am deeply humbled and grateful for your support. Thank you so much!”
FAIRFIELD High School has been awarded National Centre for Computing Education’s ‘I Belong’ certificate in recognition of its efforts to improve gender balance in Computer Science.
Edel Cronin, the school’s principal, said: “Our wonderful and diverse community have yet again demonstrated generosity and compassion by digging deep into their pockets to support this worthy cause. We will waste no time in scheduling this work, hoping to have the facilities ready in time for Ramadan.”
This achievement celebrates initiatives such as the introduction of the Code Divas Club, participation in girls-only competitions and related trips, and a broader shift in perceptions, all aimed at inspiring and encouraging girls to develop a passion for the subject.
Ayat Said, director of science and computing said: “We are delighted to receive this certificate, which is a testament to our hard work to improve the gender balance of this fast paced and important subject.”
n NEWS
Authors inspire young readers
CLIFTON College hosted the 2025 Bristol Teen Book Awards (BTBA) ceremony at its Percival Library.
School groups from across Bristol and North Somerset took part in a range of activities: literary games; workshops and talks with the authors; and a Q&A chaired by Clifton’s Maria Pointer.
Taking part were students from Churchill Academy, Backwell School, Redmaids’ High School, Bristol Grammar School, Collegiate, Fairfield, Badminton, Orchard, St Bede’s Catholic College, Bristol Free School, and Clifton High School, as well as some Clifton College readers.
The students heard from four of the authors from the shortlist: Rachel Delahaye (Electric Life), Gavin Extence (Finding Phoebe), A.S. Hussain (Desi Girl Speaking), and O.R. Sorrel (Apocalypse Cow).
The shortlisted authors answer questions from the students Right: Winner Rachel Delahaye in the Percival Library at Clifton College
The Bristol Teen Book Award is acelebration of books and reading, and it’s the students who cast the final vote and decide on the winning book.
This year’s winner was Rachel Delahaye for her futuristic thriller Electric Life. Rachel
was delighted to have won and used her acceptance speech to urge young people to follow the message of her novel: to go out into nature, experience real life and have a break from screens.
Marvellous musicians
SIX talented instrumentalists took part in the final of Greater Bristol’s Rotary Young Musician contest in Lantern Hall at the Bristol Beacon.
The winner of the annual event was violinist Antonia Zgolka and funnerp-up cellist Edmund Hogg, who are both music scholars at Clifton College.
Prizes were awarded by Bristol’s Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Paul Goggin.
The competition began in November with three heats held in the Trinity-Henleaze United Reformed Church in which 26 young musicians from local schools, aged between 13 and 17, and all Grade 7 or above, competed.
The finalists were: Enoch Wong (piano) from Yate Academy; Mark Velichko (oboe) from Bristol Grammar School;
Natalie Drake (flute) and Milo Brown (trumpet) both Wells Cathedral School; and Antonia Zgolka (violin) and Edmund Hogg (cello) both Clifton College.
Rotarian Martina Peattie said that “the organisers of this year’s competition were delighted that they had been able
to showcase the talents of these amazing young musicians at the prestigious venue of Lantern Hall at The Beacon.
The finalists had performed in front of a sell-out crowd of 250. Planning is already under way to hold next year’s final at The Beacon again.”
Park Street petition
A GROUP of traders have come together to fight plans for bus gates at the top and bottom of Park Street.
They say the city council’s £15m plans, outlined in February’s Voice, are a waste of taxpayers’ money.
They say it will:
• have a detrimental impact on the high street trade
• cause more congestion on surrounding roads
They say it will not:
• deliver an improved bus service
• reduce pollution in any meaningful way.
The campaigners believe many people in Bristol are against the council's proposals for managing traffic.
They have launched an online petition on the city council website at: https://tinyurl.com/ yw2ybmhx
Antonia Zgolka receives the prize from Deputy Mayor Paul Goggin
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS
Southmead: Kaz Self and Kye Dudd (Labour)
Ongoing issues with Bristol Waste
Missed bin collections remain an issue. As Darren Jones MP said in his February column, there appears to be a ‘postcode-lottery’ where some streets are not collected consistently on their allocated day. We will continue to ask questions about this on your behalf. If your bin isn’t collected, then you can check the Council’s website to find out if it will be done the next day.
Consultation on changes to frequency of bin collections
Bristol City Council have a consultation running (https:// www.ask.bristol.gov.uk/wasteconsultation-2025 - closes on 10th March) on potential changes to the frequency of wheelie bin collections. We are opposed to the option of a four-weekly black wheelie bin collections and started a petition against this, which at the time of writing has nearly
n OBITUARY
JULIE KAYE
10000 signatures. Hopefully the Green Party will see sense and not proceed with this idea; we think the council should get the existing service working properly first.
Council budget
After putting library and museum closures on the table, plus the potential of axing school crossing patrols, we’re glad that the Green / Lib-Dem led administration have seen sense and U-turned on these
IT is with great sadness that the family of Julie Deborah Kaye shares the news of her passing at the age of 72. Her great kindness and witty sense of humour will be greatly missed.
Julie will be lovingly remembered by her son, Richard and his partner Andrea. She will also be sorely missed by her siblings Frances, Martyn, Karen and their partners, grandchildren Peter and Philippa, Alex and Chris, Joe and Max, other relatives and many friends.
Julie was born in Bristol to Ken and Doreen Chugg on 6 July 1952 and died peacefully at home on 16 December 2024. She initially lived in Clarendon Road where she slept in a pale blue carrycot on top of a wardrobe by the side of the stairs going to the flat above. Shortly after the family moved to 20 Stadium Road. Julie attended Henleaze primary schools and later St Ursula’s.
She spent many years working and developing her artistic skills in the United States. On returning to Bristol, Julie had a son, Richard. Julie then decided to fulfil a
lifelong ambition, graduating from UWE with a (Ba) Hons in Drawing and Applied Arts.
In 2011 she was invited to join the North Bristol Artists, a thriving group of around a hundred artists and craftsmen in the Henleaze, Bishopston, St Andrews, Montpelier, Cotham and Redland area, participating in many art trails.
Julie was well known in Henleaze through her work at Kondi’s, gift shop, Home Instead, and the Cat’s Protection League. Her other interests included local history, supporting the Henleaze Lake Swimming Club and keeping fit with the 1045 Exercise Class at St Peter’s Church Hall.
Her funeral service was held on 23 January at Memorial Woodlands, near Thornbury. Mourners were encouraged to wear colourful attire. Flowers were family only but anyone wishing to donate could do so to the Cats’ Protection League at the service. Julie was a cat lover and volunteered at the charity’s shop in Henleaze during her last few months. Anyone unable to attend can donate online https:// www.cats.org.uk/donate or at the Henleaze Road charity shop on the corner of Wanscow Walk, by the thatched cottage.
Veronica Bowerman
proposals. This has been due in part by generous multi-millionpound grants from the Labour government, easing the financial pressure on the council.
By the time you read this council will have met to try and set a budget. We will be holding the administration to account and aiming to prevent cuts to vital services, including such things as meals-on-wheels and organisations who support those who’ve experienced domestic abuse.
Libraries
Proposed cuts to libraries have been dropped by the Green / Lib Dem administration for the 25/26 budget but are still on the table for future years. Children in affluent areas like Henleaze and W-o-T have much better access to books than those in less well-off wards like Southmead.
We opposed cuts to our libraries this year and will continue to do so in future years.
Planning and future developments
We had an informative meeting with representatives from the St Monica Trust back in January about their plans to expand, with a new building on the old DEFRA site. The proposal includes new apartments, a performance space and a swimming pool. We were pleased to hear that they intend to make this more accessible to local residents.
Despite our concerns, the planning inspectorate has made a decision to allow the spa complex at the David Lloyd centre to go ahead. Whether David Lloyd honour their undertaking to pay a Community Infrastructure Levy, we will wait and see.
Kye & Kaz
Contact us:
cllr.kye.dudd@bristol.gov.uk
n FROM YOUR COUNCILLORS
W-o-T & Henleaze:
Stephen Williams, Caroline Gooch and Nicholas Coombes (Lib Dem)
Resurfacing Falcondale Road
Part of Falcondale Road, the main route around Westbury-on-Trym is to be resurfaced in March. The area around the Westbury Road, Downs Road and Downs Cote View junctions will be planed, reconstructed and resurfaced. Work will be undertaken at night, between 7pm and 6am with the road completely closed at this time. It is expected to take 5 days, currently planned between 7 and 13 March.
Passage Road roadworks
Road works on Passage Road started in January to install bus lanes in both directions north of Charlton Road up to the Crow Lane roundabout. The works, approved by the previous Labour Mayoral administration, are set to run for two years. One lane in each direction should remain in operation at nearly all times, with overnight closures only required for re-surfacing. Your local councillors will work with the council highway managers to identify stress points in the programme and seek solutions. Henleaze Road repairs
We are pleased to report progress on several issues on Henleaze Road that Cllr Nicholas Coombes has raised with the Council. At Studland Court the broken pavement reported to us by residents has been resurfaced. The nearby zebra crossing at the Henleaze Park Drive has been repainted, but we continue to press for the Belisha beacons to be cleaned.
Further south, at Cavendish Road, the zebra crossing has also been repainted, and some of the biggest potholes have been filled in at our request. This is certainly an improvement, but the road surface continues to crumble.
The third zebra crossing, near Lawrence Grove, has not yet been repainted at the time of writing, but we will continue to push for maintenance and improvements along Henleaze Road.
Henbury Road post-box
Royal Mail have repainted the post-box on Henbury Road at Nicholas’ request. The George V era box had been graffiti tagged when he reported it last Autumn.
Great Brockeridge and Brainsfield street signs
We have reported the nameplates of two adjacent roads for repair. The sign at the western end of Great Brockeridge has been painted out, whereas the sign for Brainsfield has been damaged. We hope that the Brainsfield sign can be repaired, as it seems to be original to the road.
Kellaway Crescent matchday parking
Cllr Caroline Gooch and Cllr Stephen
Williams met with a group of residents from Henleaze streets near Horfield Common and Wellington Hill West to discuss traffic and parking issues. There are multiple parking problems on match days at the Memorial Stadium. We will press for yellow lines to improve visibility and safety on corners. We would be pleased to hear views on any proposals to improve safety for pedestrians and road users.
Libraries
Liberal Democrat Councillors have successfully averted a potential cut to the city’s libraries that could’ve slashed the service’s budget in half. Published at the start of the year, up to £2.4 million in savings were presented as an option to the Council’s Finance Sub Committee.
Following strong opposition, no cuts at all to libraries are included in the draft budget for the forthcoming year.
The Liberal Democrats have a longstanding commitment to ensuring that Bristol has a library service of which the city can be proud. Since May 2024, and the change to the new committee system, the City Council’s Public Health and Communities Committee has had oversight of the library service. The committee is chaired by Councillor Stephen Williams.
As soon as he took office Stephen made it clear that plans of the previous Labour Mayor to move the Central Library were dead on arrival. He also worked with officers to lift the recruitment freeze, which had led to sporadic branch library closures. Our libraries are now open for their advertised days and hours, with our own Henleaze and Westbury branches among the best used in the city.
Stephen will be chairing a cross-party group to conduct a root-and-branch review
of the service. The group will be looking at ways of improving the service by having libraries open at the times of day most useful for their communities. It will see what other activities could take place in the network of library buildings, and whether library outlets could be opened in alternative venues.
Stephen looks forward to working with the various library ‘friends-of’ groups and others who want to see a revamped service that meets the needs of Bristol.
Council Budget solutions
At the end of February all councillors met to set the budget for 2025/26 and the rate of council tax. Councils must legally balance the books, Bristol had a £52 million funding gap to close, even after a maximum rise of 5% in council tax. After years of local government underfunding by Conservative Governments and reckless decisions by Bristol Labour, councillors were being asked to approve £43 million of savings and increases in charges. The budget is the culmination of months of discussions between councillors and officers, with the Strategy and Resources committee, where Caroline is the vice-chair, sending the final package to full council. It’s the first major test of the new committee system, with the budget being largely the result of cooperation between the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party. We hope to have stabilised the city’s finances for the next two years but will have lots of work to do to safeguard our libraries, museums and funding for community groups as the cost pressures in adult care and children’s services continue to rise.
Van dwellers
After Stephen arranged a meeting with council officers and Cllr Barry Parsons, the chair of the Homes and Housing Delivery Committee some new proposals were put forward to February’s Homes and Housing committee. The plan is now to bring forward meanwhile sites and classify van dwellers as homeless so that avenues to help them into housing are put in place. The situation has been left to drift for too long. With a plan in place to assist those in need, a mix of bylaws and tighter parking restrictions can then come into place.
Nicholas, Caroline & Stephen
cllr.nicholas.coombes@bristol.gov.uk 07386 698 750
cllr.caroline.gooch@bristol.gov.uk 07386 698 669
cllr.stephen.williams@bristol.gov.uk 07386 698 772
LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY – APPOINTMENT OF ATTORNEYS
Hermione Farmer of AMD Solicitors discusses the appointment of attorneys under a Lasting Power of Attorney.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal form that gives authority to those appointed as Attorneys to make decisions on behalf of the donor (the person who has created the LPA). There are separate LPAs for Property and Financial Affairs and for Health and Welfare.
Attorneys appointed under an LPA are able to make decisions that the donor could make if they still had the ability to do so themselves. You can therefore appreciate the power that these documents have and the importance of appoint an attorney or attorneys who you trust to look after your best interests.
Some people think that the decision over who to appoint to is a simple one. Perhaps they have a spouse who they trust to look after their best interests and they know would be willing to make decisions for them, a child or chil-
dren who are financially knowledgeable and manage their own finances well, or siblings who they think would get along and act well together. However, there is more to the consideration of who to appoint than meets the eye. For example:
Sole attorneys - If a solely appointed attorney is unable to act (perhaps they have died before the donor or lost capacity themselves), their appointment would fail and the donor would be left with no attorney to make decisions for them and the LPA would be invalid. You should consider someone else who could act alongside your attorney or who could step in as a replacement.
Multiple attorneys: How should they make decisions - You can appoint attorneys to make decisions jointly and severally (they can make decisions either together or separately), jointly (they must make decisions together), or they can make some decisions
jointly and separately, and some jointly
Each option requires very careful consideration. For example, appointing attorneys to make decisions jointly could mean that if one of them dies before you, the remaining attorney cannot make those decisions that they had to make jointly with the other attorney.
Bankruptcy or debt relief orders – An attorney cannot be appointed if they are currently bankrupt, an undischarged bankrupt or are subject to a debt relief order. If this happens after they are appointed, they can no longer act. If an attorney has previously been bankrupt etc., are they a suitable choice of attorney?
These are just some of the issues to consider when thinking of who to appoint as your attorney and it is best to seek professional advice to ensure the best possible decision is made.
For further advice on Lasting Powers of Attorney, the administration of estates, Wills and other private client matters, contact AMD’s Private Client Department at 100 Henleaze Road, Bristol BS9 4JZ, on 0117 962 1205, by email to info@amdsolciitors.com or visit our website www.amdsolicitors.com
n FROM BRISTOL NORTH WEST'S MP
Have your say on our missions
AT the start of February, as our first Prime Minister to join a meeting of European Council members since Brexit, Keir Starmer has started the much-needed work to rebuild the UK's relationship with Europe.
On May 19, the UK will welcome the Presidents of the European Council and the European Commission to the UK for the first UK-EU leaders’ summit, to further strengthen the relationship between the UK and the EU.
And in June, I'm organising a summit in Bristol North West specially for constituents on ‘Resetting our relationship with the EU’.
The latter is part of a new series of town hall events that I'm running across the constituency this year before the summer recess, with each event themed to focus on a different mission in this government's Plan for Change.
I'm holding these events because it's important that, in my ca-
pacity as a constituency MP, I hear your views on the government's plans. This is your opportunity to share with me your support, questions or concerns about the work that my Cabinet colleagues and I are doing to deliver on our promise of change.
I’ve already got the ball rolling on this new series of events by discussing the UK’s transition to clean energy at a packed Climate Crisis Town Hall at St Peter’s Hall in Henleaze in January – thank you to everyone who came along. It was a pleasure to have Dr Alix Dietzel, a climate justice and climate policy expert at the University of Bristol, join me on stage at this event to discuss the outcomes of recent COP29 climate conference, and you can expect more guest speakers at the forthcoming events.
The next town hall will be held at a venue close to Westburyon-Trym on Saturday March 1 (2.30pm-4pm) to discuss our
government's mission to build 1.5 million new homes in England and fast-track planning decisions.
While this drive to find new sites for house building won’t affect Bristol North West, in the local context, work on the YTL Arena and neighbouring Brabazon housing development is already under way – along with new train stations for the Henbury line (North Filton and Henbury stations) and somewhat controversial plans to add bus and cycle lanes in Henbury and Brentry in the works (including the Passage Road section of the A4018), all in a bid to prevent congestion from the builds.
Tickets for this event are available to book now at darren-jones. co.uk/events, or by calling my office on 0117 959 6545 if you don't have internet access. Tickets for the other events will be released in due course – please sign up to my monthly newsletter on my website to be among the first to
Darren Jones writes for the Voice
hear when the events are available to book.
As always, if you need my help or have a question, you can get in touch with me on e-mail at darren. jones.mp@parliament.uk, by calling my office on 0117 959 6545 or by writing to me at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.
Why I had to raise the cost of policing
AS your police and crime commissioner, my role is not only to represent the people of Avon and Somerset locally but also to ensure your voices are heard at a national level.
I am the bridge between residents and decision-makers, championing the issues that matter most to you.
I use what I hear from people daily to shape what I do, and the actions I take.
I’m guided by the determination to bring about changes that benefit the people I’ve been elected to represent.
It is part of my job to share the key concerns that people bring to my attention, issues affecting so many lives including serious youth violence, police visibility, crime reporting, community safety, and the underlying causes of crime.
During January, I took part in a Home Office roundtable on
tech-enabled violence against women and girls.
This is something that people across all our areas are affected by. Technology has introduced new challenges in tackling abuse, and harassment, but it also offers opportunities for prevention and support.
With key stakeholders, including ministers Jess Phillips and Alex Davies-Jones, we explored the complexities of the issues and the solutions that government can deliver.
To be able to deliver against the priorities you’ve told me are most important, I’m responsible for setting the amount of money you contribute to local police services through your council tax bill each year.
This is known as the ‘Police Precept’. It accounts for 43% of the funding that Avon and Somerset police rely on, with the rest coming from central
government.
I confirmed an increase of £14 more per year for the average Band D household at a meeting on February 4.
I know the cost of living is a concern for many, and I did not take this decision lightly.
I must make sure our police service has the resources to continue tackling crime, keeping communities safe, and improving trust and confidence in policing.
The extra funding will support Avon and Somerset Police to keep delivering neighbourhood policing and other services, while progressing work on priority areas like tackling serious violence and violence against women and girls, and investing in ways to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour.
Through everything I do, my focus remains clear: I will make
With Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody
sure the voices and experiences of the people who live in Avon and Somerset will influence and shape national conversations around policing and crime.
Together, we can drive meaningful changes that create safer communities for everyone.
You can read the five priorities the public told me are most important in my Police and Crime Plan on my website at tinyurl.com/2zxte625.
Full steam ahead for Portishead line
THE start of 2025 has been a busy time for the West of England, seeing more great news.
My mayoral combined authority has continued to go from strength to strength, securing a record £380 million budget to invest in better buses, training for workers and jobseekers, and much more over the coming year.
In February, I was proud to announce another project that this record funding will help deliver: reopening the long-awaited Bristol & Portishead Line, which was axed back in 1964
under the Beeching cuts.
After years of delays, thanks to £27m of further investment from my combined authority we have struck a deal to get on with it, after I went to London to strike a deal with Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy.
This project will cut journey times in half, reducing congestion and pollution. It will also unlock an extra £43m each year for our regional economy, and represents a major step towards delivering a train station at Ashton Gate – with other stations coming down the line for Lockleaze, St Anne’s, and a long held ambition of mine, Saltford.
This is a train line that was dreamed up by Isambard Kingdom Brunel almost 200 years ago, before opening in 1867.
It was a victim of the historic rail cuts in the 1960s, meaning that the last time passengers were on it, The Beatles were top of the charts the first time round.
All change here, though! After many false starts, we’ll be back on track this summer, when work starts.
This is a red letter day for the West of England, that generations have waited eagerly to see.
Once opened, in the next few years, journey times between Bristol and Portishead will be cut in half.
Rush hour at the moment takes motorists almost an hour, but the new trains will do the distance in around 20 minutes.
It’s not just full steam ahead for this line, though - far from it.
Since I’ve been mayor I’ve been proud to open two brand new stations for local passengers at Portway Park & Ride and Ashley Down.
The Bristol & Portishead Line will be the latest giant leap forward, part of a wider programme to give 100,000 more people access to train services in our region.
Full steam ahead!
Housing Forums
Evening: Monday 17 March, 6–8pm Afternoon: Friday 21 March, 1–3pm
Your opinions help us make decisions!
For Spring 2025, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.
● Come along and find out what we are doing to improve the quality and safety of your home. We’ll update you on our progress towards meeting the new housing regulations and share information about the work we are doing to tackle housing disrepair issues and improve how we maintain our homes.
● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums
● If you are not online there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk
Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the Voice
Dan Norris at the Avon Valley Railway in Bitton
Can't get to see a doctor? Time to try our NHS walk-in pharmacy service
THE Pharmacy First scheme offered at Kellaway Pharmacy enables everyone in our area to just come in and receive NHS care for a variety of conditions. A year after the national launch, it continues to deliver popular, accessible, and timely care for our locality.
Common conditions covered include:
1. Sinusitis – for children and adults 12 years and over;
2. Sore throat (examination) - for children and adults 5 years and over;
3. Earache (otoscopy examination) for children and adults 1 year and over;
4. Infected insect bite – for children and adults 1 year and over;
5. Impetigo – for children and adults 1 year and over;
6. Shingles – for adults 18 years and over;
7. Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women 16 to 64 years.
8. Infected eye treatment – for children
aged over 30 days to 2 years
This service is NHS-funded , so all medicines supplied will be like receiving NHS prescription items and you also do not pay for a consultation. Consultations with the pharmacist, include examination looking into the ear (otoscopy) and the throat as appropriate, to assess your symptoms and medical history and agree clinically appropriate next steps including supplying antibiotics or any other prescription only medicine that is required.
A referral may also be actioned to the appropriate healthcare access point, such as a GP surgery or A&E.
The pharmacist’a assessment delivers evidence-based care using the same clinical guidelines and tools used across the NHS.
GP surgeries and NHS 111 now also refer people directly into the service.
The scheme is creating better integrated working between local GP Surgeries and Kellaway Pharmacy with the pharmacy consultation details shared with the GP, further supporting better care continuity.
This service is a most welcome development for the health of our community and a step in the right direction; bringing NHS care closer to everyone.
Remember this NHS Walk-in service covers both children and adults.
Need our help? Questions or queries? Come in to see us or just call us on 0117 9246579
BOOK REVIEW
My Life, My Body by Madge Piercy
MADGE Piercy is an American feminist. My Life, My Body is a collection of her essays. One essay deals with the gentrification of neighbourhoods and describes how her Parisian working class neighbourhood was multi-cultural with local shops selling the necessities of life. It is now full of travel agencies, boutiques and dry cleaners for fine leathers and furs. Her San Francisco neighbourhood used to be inhabited by musicians, artists, porters and bartenders in cheap and convenient housing. It is now full of shopping malls, boutiques and fancy restaurants and no-one she knows can afford to live there now.
In another essay Madge laments the lack of promotion of woman writers. Most men still read too few women writers and they
tend to award book prizes to each other. She has hundreds of male Facebook friends who never list any of her books as liked or read.
In Few Writers Are Rich, Madge breaks down a 100,000 dollar book deal. She reveals that 50,00 dollars goes to the publisher with 7,500 dollars to the agent. This leaves the writer 42,500 dollars. If you deduct the 15,000 dollar advance, the writer is left with 27,500 dollars. Madge spends 3 years to write a novel so she has effectively 9,000 dollars a year to live on while she writes a book.
In Living Off The Grid, we learn that Cape Cod has a long history of writers, painters and radicals living undercover especially during the McCarthy era. In My Life, My Body she points out that before Roe v Wade, the choice was forced motherhood, signing your baby
away or abortion without anaesthetic. She found herself pregnant at 18. Determined to finish college she performed her own abortion which almost killed her. For this book and many more come and visit your local library at 100 Gloucester Road.
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)
Memory Lane
“ It’s hard losing someone. The pain doesn’t really ever go away. But the setting here is so lovely and green, calm and peaceful, it helps. We can’t bring them back but when we’re among those trees they feel less far away. And knowing that we’re helping create a woodland for future generations... that’s solace”
Chris, Bristol
n WHAT'S ON
Monday March 24
n HENLEAZE SENIOR FILM CLUB. WONKA (PG). Wonka tells the story of how a young dreamer named Willy Wonka becomes the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate maker. A wonderful remake, starring Tomothee Chalamet, Olivia Coleman, Hugh Grant and Jim Carter. 2pm. Carers welcome, easy access Refreshments £4. St. Peter’s Church Hall, The Drive, Henleaze BS9 4LD. For more information, please call 0117 435 0063..
Saturday March 22
n BRISTOL BACH CHOIR WITH BRISTOL ENSEMBLE conducted by David Bednall perform Haydn’s Nelson Mass and CPE Bach’s Magnificat in St Peter's Church, Henleaze, BS9 4LD at 7.30pm. Tickets: £25, £18 (reserved), £10 (unreserved). Students and under 18s, £5 Phone: Bristol Bach Choir Box Office 0117 214 0721 Website: https://www.bristolbach.org.uk/
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 PILATES CLASSES, Northcote Scout Hall, BS9 3TY. Mondays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Mixed Ability inc. Beginners); Tuesdays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.30am (Gentle); Thursdays 9.30am (Improvers), 10.45am (Mixed Abil-
ity - inc Beginners). Small, friendly classes. Please register interest before attending. Full details at www. mindbodypilates.org. Contact; Leanne 07817189474 or leanne@ mindbodypilates.org
Monday
n TEATIME CHURCH - Children and families are welcome to join us once a month at the back of Holy Trinity Church in Westbury-onTrym for crafts, games, stories and songs, followed 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-parishchurch.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 ON TRYM WOMEN'S INSTITUTE meets on the third Monday of the month in the Westbury Village Hall, Eastfield Road, BS9 4AG, from 2.00 - 4.00 pm. We have interesting speakers, and extra activities of crafts, lunch club, skittles and outings. Our lively, friendly and inclusive group welcomes visitors at any meeting. For more information call Sascha on 07961619806 or Traci on 07766073917
n 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
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 CARERS’ SUPPORT GROUP run by Bristol Dementia Action Alliance, held on the first Tuesday of each month, St Peters’ Church, Henleaze, BS9 4LD, 2pm-4pm. A chance for carers to share stories and gain support from each other. For further information, contact Tony Hall, office@bdaa.org.uk
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 BRISTOL GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR rehearses at Westbury-onTrym Methodist Church (BS9 3AA) on Monday afternoons 2.004.00pm (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 AFTERNOON CAFE CHESS BS9
- Weds 2.45pm till about 4pm - in a cafe on most 2nd & 4th Weds of each month - for informal chess for up to 5 or 6 people over a cuppa - Any standard welcomed - Please contact Mark T (local chess club member, DBS) 07934 473 994 for confirmation of our selected venue (provisionally C#1 Henleaze)
n A CLASS FOR EVERYBODY! KEEP FIT, St Peter’s Church, Henleaze, Wednesdays, 10-11am, £8. 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 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 A GENTLE WAY TO KEEP FIT & HAVE FUN! CHAIR AEROBICS, St Peter’s Church, Henleaze, Wednesdays, 11.15am12.15pm, £8. 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.comwellness. Call Louisa: 07725 091429. Email Louisa: chairaerobicslouisa@gmail.com
n "REST REFUGE: YOGA FOR PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC FATIGUE" with Sarah Bradley (Occupational Therapist & Yoga Teacher). 10 - 11am. In Studio and livestreamed on Zoom. Bristol Yoga Space, Princes' Place, Bishopston, Bristol, BS7 8NP. Seasonalflow@gmail.com Book your place: https://bookwhen. com/seasonalflow
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 GOLDEN HILL WI Meets the first Wednesday of every month. 1-3pm. Golden Hill Sports Ground, Wimbledon Road, BS6 7YA. A vibrant, lively, afternoon WI in BS6. We have a varied programme to offer members. Visitors and new members will be given a warm welcome. For more information contact Pam Scull at goldenhillwi@gmail.com.
n HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB Wednesday morning whist drives, 10.00 for 10.30, all welcome. £2.00 including tea and coffee. Located in Grange Court Road next to Newman Hall. Please see our website for information and all social events. https://henleazebowlingclub.org.uk/social-events/
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 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 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
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 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 FRIENDS TOGETHER DEMENTIA FRIENDLY CAFÉ
A Dementia accessible café for all on the first Thursday of every month, 10am-12pm; The Randall Room at All Saints Church, Pembroke Rd, Clifton. Support, guidance, information and friendship with complimentary tea, coffee and homemade cake. No need to book – just come along and be a part of our community! For more information contact All Saints Parish Office: 0117 974 1355
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. Continued on Page 28
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 HENLEAZE BOWLING CLUB
n HENLEAZE CHORAL SOCIETYmeets at Henleaze Bowling Club,
n TODDLERS TOGETHER is a parent and toddler group for the
Thursday afternoon short mat bowls, 13.30, all welcome £3.00, tea and coffee provided. Located in Grange Court Road next to Newman Hall. Please see our website for
information and all social events. https://henleazebowlingclub.org.
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 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 7.159.15pm. 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 Water-
ford Rd. Henleaze. Plus optional Practice Classes on 4th Thursday. We meet every month except December and August. Please contact Jenny York, Club Chair yorkjenny2@ yahoo or phone/text 07880 700270 n HIGHBURY BADMINTON CLUB: Pete Stables 0117 950 1524 or www.pete4458.wixsite.com/ highburybadminton Thurs 7:30pm mid September to End April, Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall
n 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 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 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
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 CIRCLECome 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. 7.3010.30pm. 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 Sat (except August). Voluntary service run by experienced repairers. Dona-
tions welcome. FFI see Facebook @ seamillsrepaircafe or email: repaircafe.seamills@gmail.com
Sunday
n WORSHIP FOR ALL MUSIC SERVICE is a brand new music-based service at Holy Trinity Church in Westbury-on-Trym. Please join us on the last Sunday of each month from 4pm-4.45pm to sing along with contemporary and traditional worship songs with live music and experienced singing leaders. All are very welcome and the service is suitable for children. Refreshments are served at the end of each service. For more information, please visit https:// www.westbury-parish-church.org. uk/services/
We would love to publicise your event
Send details of your events and activities tous at: news@ henleazeandwestburyvoice. co.uk
Sauna proves a success
A POPULAR addition to the sports, leisure and wellbeing opportunities offered by the Ardagh Community Trust (ACT) is here to stay.
The Ardagh Community Sauna, which opened in December 2024, was originally planned as a short-term attraction but has been so well used it is set to remain.
Residents say the 16-person, wood-fired facility is a welcoming space for wellness, mindfulness and deep relaxation, all within the heart of Horfield Common.
Part of the nationwide movement of community saunas, it is supported by the Community Sauna Network, which has helped with consulting on how to start a community sauna, with a focus on affordability and accessibility.
Jon Savage, who runs the sauna enterprise, says, “We are really enjoying running the sauna and wellness area at the
Ardagh - the customers have really received it well and it has become such a nice place to be. I love working there as people arrive happy that they are about to have a sauna and leave even happier once they have had a sauna!
"We are growing our opening hours, so take a look on the website for when to come down. We are now also offering a 25 per cent discount for NHS staff.”
Prices start at £15 for a one-hour session. Bundles and private hire for groups are also available. Bookings can be made via the website: ardaghcommunitysauna. org, or by emailing: info@ ardaghcommunitysauna.org for private hire enquiries.
The sauna is also planning to host silent, women-only and guided sessions, and welcomes suggestions for tailored sessions from other fitness, community or social groups.
More to woodlice than meets the eye
I DON’T often think about woodlice, to be brutally honest, but suddenly I found myself intrigued. As a child I enjoyed the way they would curl up into a neat ball which could be rolled around like a marble (sorry, woodlice of my childhood!). The armoured back protects their delicate underside and the shape makes them hard to grip and permits a tumbling escape if fumbled.
Woodlice are crustaceans, more closely related to crabs than to any of our typical garden invertebrates, and as such they don’t just love damp conditions (especially under logs) they actually require them. Like insects they have paired sets of legs and a jointed body but woodlice have seven pairs of legs, leaving insects with their three pairs and crabs with their five looking pretty silly. They breathe through specialised gills which must be kept moist but also have an extra structure which enables them to breathe in low humidity securing their ultimate success as land animals in this otherwise aquatic group.
Woodlice mothers carry the fertilised eggs inside them, sustaining the developing babies with nutrients and oxygen and many species also offer maternal care to their tiny offspring after hatching – a detail that is
always both delightful and surprising in such a commonplace and simple creature.
What we might casually think of as “a woodlouse” is in fact many species – around Bristol we might find 30 different ones. There are five common and widespread species - engagingly nicknamed “the famous five” by woodlice enthusiasts. The common pill bug is the likely victim of my childhood games; it usually comes in grey but can also be mottled in shades of brown and it curls itself into those wonderfully neat spheres when disturbed (not all woodlice do this). The common shiny woodlouse is also variable and can be quite prettily decorated with lines of
catkin-yellow dots. The rough woodlouse is one of the largest – up to 17mm long – and in addition to the regulation grey they can be patterned in orange and tan. The striped woodlouse has a dark dorsal stripe (down its back) relative to its varied shades of reddish brown through anonymous grey. Finally the pygmy woodlouse comes in at under 5mm and is reddish purple in colour: virtually all the individuals are females reproducing parthenogenetically (that is producing young without needing to mate).
They have many charming and unusual names - chuggy-pig, chiselbob and tiddy-hog are amongst my West Country favourites in a large field. But I was very surprised (and slightly nauseated) to learn of their traditional use in medicines: a recipe from Gloucestershire involved stirring live woodlice into mild ale with raisins, rhubarb and roots of ferns in order to cure rickets. They would also be swallowed alive as a “cure” for stomach ache. I prefer my woodlice to be left to fulfil their key ecosystem role of regulating decomposition and nutrient recycling which they do by simply chomping away on dead organic matter without complaint, bless them.
© Dawn Lawrence
Common rough woodlouse, recycling nutrients. Photograph by Martin Cooper
FINANCE
With Richard Higgs BA (hons) CFP FPFS
Harold Stephens
50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3DZ
T: 0117 3636212
E: office@haroldstephens.co.uk
Lack of awareness of Labour's pension IHT changes
A REPORT recently published by research firm Opinium found a significant lack of awareness among the 8.5 million people aged 55+ who could be directly impacted by the announcements in Labour’s first budget. Key among these is the inclusion of pension benefits in an individual’s estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes from April 2027. This change is projected to double the number of estates subject to IHT, generating an additional £1.46 billion annually by 2029/2030.
Despite widespread press coverage, awareness remains alarmingly low. Only 6% of adults over 55 have adjusted their financial plans, while 40% are unaware of the changes.
The report also highlights a striking lack of knowledge around existing gifting rules that could help reduce IHT liabilities:
• 79% of those over 55 are unaware they can gift up to £250 per person to multiple individuals without triggering IHT.
• 78% don’t know that gifts for occasions like birthdays or Christmas are exempt.
• 65% are unaware that gifts between spouses are IHT-free.
• 62% don’t know about the £3,000 Annual Exemption for tax-free gifts, with unused allowances transferable to the next year.
• 53% are uninformed about the seven-year rule for exempt gifts.
Without proper financial planning, many estates may be
unprepared for these changes, leaving beneficiaries with a significantly higher IHT burden. Open discussions with family and beneficiaries are critical to managing the implications. Families who engage in proactive planning, especially with guidance from a SOLLAaccredited independent financial adviser, often see substantial financial benefits, including reduced or eliminated IHT.
To address this, individuals should seek professional advice on the pension IHT changes and explore options like gifting, setting up trusts, or investing in IHT-free assets.
As experts often note, IHT remains a voluntary tax for
families who fail to plan and act. Free Financial Planning Seminar
Concerned about how the budget may affect you? Join one of our free seminars at Stoke Lodge, Shirehampton Road, BS9 1BN: Dates: May 7th or May 14th, 1:30–2:30 pm
Book now: Email marketing@ haroldstephens.co.uk or call 011 3636 212.
Call 0117 3636 212 or email office@haroldstephens.co.uk for a no obligation, relaxed chat about your circumstances.
Search ‘Harold Stephens IFA’ for financial planning information and tips.
50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, BS9 3DZ
Clifton pay tribute to Keith Bonham
PLAYERS and spectators at a Clifton game In mid February observed a silence in memory of Keith Bonham MBE DL.
Keith, who passed away in early February, was a truly outstanding man with a demanding role for years as managing partner of the Bristol office of Ernst and Young. Out of work Keith gave dedicated and incredible service to Clifton Rugby Club. He was the club’s Treasurer for a remarkable 49 years, a period which included the ground transfer to Cribbs Causeway. Affectionately known as “scattercash”, he captained the “A” XV for many years, imperious in
the lineout due to his height and sporting a vintage scrum cap he was very well known on the Bristol rugby scene. He was a a proud wearer of his lavender and black blazer on club occasions.
Keith was appointed MBE by the late Queen for his enormous contribution to the wider Bristol community. He served as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant [DL] which is a royal appointment to support Bristol’s Lord Lieutenant. DLs assist the work of the Lord Lieutenant in
Wills and Probate without the mystery
How do I choose the right executor of my will? I’m worried about putting a burden on someone or making the wrong choice that will have a negative effect on my children.
Your Executor is the person who is going to handle all your affairs after you pass away.
Typically, your Executor should possess two essential qualities: they know you very well, and they are good at managing paperwork. In addition, they should also be someone who is willing and able to give up some of their time to actually administer your estate and distribute your assets as indicated. Going through probate or the administration of an estate can be complex. Knowing this, it’s best to pick someone who has the capacity to take on such a responsibility and is good in these types of situations.
Many people pick a trustworthy family member or a close friend to be their Executor, but that isn’t the only option. I recommend that you choose someone who will get to know you well, earn your trust and whom is also a professional.
Will Writing
representing the monarch locally. His charitable work included a major role at St Peter’s Hospice in governance and fundraising. He ran many fundraising marathons, was a past President of Clifton Rotary Club and held significant roles in other charities, including Manor Farm Boys Club, and conservation projects.
On the pitch, Clifton’s long winning sequence going back to October was brought to an end on their visit to league leaders
Camborne. However ,the team did not return empty handed from the trip as they secured both try and losing bonus points while denying their hosts a try bonus point.
As a result, Clifton remained in second place in the table and sit comfortably ahead of the pack of teams chasing the leaders.
Business returned to normal at the next home game against Devonport Services with a comfortable six-try victory.
Number eight forward Niall Gibbons excelled with two of the tries and was a serious threat to the opposition throughout the encounter.
A return visit from Camborne in early April could well determine the promotion place.
Clifton’s strength in depth is demonstrated by the continuing success of their second string, the Wanderers, who are sitting in second place in the Counties 1 table chasing local side Cleve.
Clifton welcomes players of all abilities across its three teams and those interested should contact alisonharvey@cliftonrugby.co.uk
Roger Opie
Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.
Will Writing
Family & Property Trusts
Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.
Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Family & Property Trusts
Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.
A professional Executor can also be an excellent choice for those who are worried about putting the burden on a family member or friend during a time of grief. They are an excellent option whose only stake in the situation is to do their job.
Probate Services
Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.
Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible.
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Probate Services
Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.
Jim Emsley
Jim Emsley is a professional will writer and the Founder of Bristol-based ELM Legal Services. Have a question related to wills and estates? Send it to Jim at hello@elm-online.co.uk and mention ‘Voice newspapers’ in the subject line for potential inclusion in a future column.
Niall Gibbons scores a try Photo: Ian Clark Inset: Keith Bonham MBE DL
n NEWS FROM S us WoT
Do you want to help? Everything SusWoT and Trout in the Trym does is done by volunteers. With more volunteers more could be done. Opportunities include keeping a street litter free, cleaning the river, nurturing seedlings, updating websites, running stalls at shows and fairs and more. If you are interested in helping with anything that SusWoT does or in starting something new, please get in touch, email suswot2050@gmail. com.
Cleaning up the Trym: A milestone has been reached. All the Trym river system in Bristol, and the green spaces it runs through in Sea Mills, Southmead and Henbury, have now been cleared of litter at least once. Some many times! Over the last six years about 500 two-hour cleaning sessions have been held. Roughly 400 tonnes of rubbish has been cleaned up by volunteers and then taken away by Bristol Parks. A celebration is being planned for the summer. However, there are other issues
such as sewage, where more work needs to be done. It is good to see that our new Westbury and Henbury councillors, Caroline Gooch, Nicholas Coombes and Stephen Williams are working with Nikki Jones to tackle the remaining sewage problems. SusWoT have been working with Wessex Water for many years and as a result two discharge sites in Coombe Dingle have been rebuilt already greatly reducing the release of sewage there. The Trout in the Trym website has been rebuilt by Laura Demery. Website technology moves fast, and we are very lucky to have
It was great to host my ‘Meet Helen’ events across the West of England including in Bristol & Filton. It was lovely to meet residents from right across our region and hear your views on how we make the West of England a better place to live.
Laura now looking after both suswot.org.uk and troutinthetrym. co.uk. The SusWoT site was rebuilt last year.
The Community Garden between Stoke Lane and Reedley Road lost its arch this winter, it will need replacing and SusWoT agreed at their January meeting to pay. Some houses around the community garden have smartened their back gardens so the area is now much tidier. It could be even better though.
In The Library Garden the Broad Beans that were planted at the end of last year are up. These are tough plants and provide some of
the earliest vegetables of the year. RetroFit West the insulation advisors are supporting four events that SusWoT are holding early this year. Three events are at Westbury library and the fourth is an Open Homes event across Westbury. The two remaining events in the library are on Tuesday 11 March and Tuesday 1 April both starting at 7:30. On 1 March there will be an Open Homes Day when some homes in Westbury will be open to visitors. Homeowners will show visitors and explain what they have done to reduce energy consumption. All events are free but must be booked in advance as space is limited in the library and peoples’ homes. To reserve a place at any of these events go to suswot.org.uk
Supporting local businesses
SusWoT organises a monthly meal in a local restaurant and one in a pub. Where possible SusWoT uses local businesses to provide the services it needs. If we don’t use our local businesses, they may not be here when we need them.
Alex Dunn
Create an integrated transport network of buses and trains that local people can rely on to get
Build new homes with the right infrastructure to help young people get onto the housing ladder
Bring investment into our region to make the West of England the home of new green jobs
/Rubbish found on Crow Lane Open Space
n TURNER'S VISION
Sunglasses that look stylish - while working hard to protect your eyes
Everybody loves a good pair of sunglasses. They protect your eyes, they’re a Godsend if you’ve had a late evening the night before and they look great. But not all sunglasses were created equal.
At Turners Opticians, we’ve got a stunning collection of designer frames that combine style, comfort, and the crystal-clear vision you deserve.
The many benefits of wearing shades
The Americans have a National Sunglasses Day every year (June 27 if you’re curious!) where they pay tribute to their shades. It’s a dual celebration of their status as a fashion statement and their protective qualities. It’s yet to catch on over on this side of the pond but every day is a good day to be reminded of the eye health benefits of sunglasses…
Protection from UV radiation – Sunglasses are your best defence against the sun’s UV radiation. Long-term exposure to UV rays increases the risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and even photokeratitis - essentially sunburn for your eyes. The damage builds up over time, so wearing sunglasses regularly is a small step with huge long-term benefits. Reduce eye strain – We’ve all been there - squinting against the sun, only to end up with headaches and tired eyes. When your pupils work overtime to block out bright light, it puts unnecessary strain on your eye muscles. Sunglasses help take the pressure off, making those sunny days a lot more comfortable.
Keeping your eyes clean – Wind, dust, and even the occasional rogue insect can wreak havoc on your eyes. A good pair of shades acts as a protective barrier, keeping your eyes free from grit and irritation. No more watery, red eyes on breezy walks!
Shut out the glare – Glare ranges from mildly annoying to downright dangerous. It can affect us while walking, sitting outside, watching TV or driving. It’s most dangerous when we’re sat behind the wheel as glare can cause temporary blindness, so sunglasses for drivers are essential. Polarised lenses do the job best.
We’ve got a great range of sunglasses for your consideration
At Turners Opticians, our exclusive designer sunglasses collection offers protection, comfort and sophistication. But it’s not only about aesthetics – we take your clarity of vision seriously which is why all our lenses are custom-made to ensure you experience nothing but visual precision. When looking through our range, consider when you are going to be wearing your sunglasses most. If you’re out for a stroll, those stylish Ray Bans will do the job. Out for a run? Then you’ll want a pair with impact resistance like our Oakley range. And if you spend time near water and snow, Polarising lenses are great at reducing that glare. We stock all these brilliant brands (and more!) in both our Henleaze and Fishponds branches.
To book an appointment for sunglasses at Turners Opticians, call our Henleaze branch on 0117 962 2474 or our Fishponds branch on 0117 965 4434. Or you can use our easy online booking system at www. turnersopticians.co.uk
Thanks for reading!
Peter
Peter Turner is an Independent Prescribing Senior Optometrist at Turners Opticians in Bristol. He also works as a Senior Medical Optometrist at Bristol Eye Hospital. Peter has a specialist interest in visual development and visual performance.
own murmuration a reward for hard work
THE quiet plod of winter tasks continues in the vineyard as we gradually work our way through the pruning of the vines and the pollarding of the willow windbreak. This year we’re ahead of schedule with the vine pruning and have almost finished the pollarding as well but there are always plenty other jobs to do when those are over. When doing these winter tasks, it’s almost impossible not to start monitoring your daily progress and trying to go faster or do more as a small daily challenge. This year I’ve been removing the white fibreglass sticks that have supported the baby vines over the last few years so I’ve been measuring my daily pruning speed by the amount sticks in my wheelbarrow at the end of the day. What I realised is that it’s amazing how much more you can do if you give yourself a bit of a deadline or a goal to reach by the end of the day!
On the wildlife front there’s not much happening aside from the usual rooks, buzzards and small brown birds but we have been treated to our own personal, mini murmuration from a large group of starlings that seem to be hanging around the vineyard at the moment. The sight and sound of them is quite impressive when they take to the wing en masse.
On the wine front we’re busy prepping new white fizz as well as our new col fondo for sale. Our 2024 rosé will be bottled in a few weeks so the vineyard and wine cycle continues!
hello@dunleavyvineyards.co.uk www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk
@DYvineyards (X/Twitter) dunleavy vineyards (Facebook & Instagram)
Sticking to those winter tasks
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If you’re looking for help with any of the services here, get in touch.
Buying and Selling
Commercial Property
Corporate + Commercial
Court of Protection
Dispute Resolution
Divorce + Separation
Domestic Abuse
Employment
Family and Child Law
Inheritance Disputes
Medical Negligence
Personal Injury
Powers of Attorney
Wills, Trusts and Probate
AFRESH GARDENS
PLANT AND SHRUB CARE
WEEDING
PRUNING (incl FRUIT TREES)
WOOD STAINING
GRASS CUTTING
GRASS CUTTING
HEDGE TRIMMING
PLANTING SCHEMES
PLANTING SCHEMES
HEDGE TRIMMING
HEDGE TRIMMING
If you have any particular requirement not listed above please don’t hesitate to contact Katherine on the numbers below. I work through all four seasons and will work to your specification whether it’s long term, short term or just for the day. Thank you.
If you have any particular requirement not listed above please don’t hesitate to contact Katherine on the numbers below. I work through all four seasons and will work to your specification whether it’s long term, short term or just for the day. Thank you. Visit www.blossom-gardening.co.uk Email info@blossom-gardening.co.uk Call 07794 994262
If you have any particular requirement not listed above please don’t hesitate to contact Katherine on the numbers below. I work through all four seasons and will work to your specification whether it’s long term, short term or just for the day. Thank you. Visit www.blossom-gardening.co.uk Email info@blossom-gardening.co.uk Call 07794 994262
If you have any particular requirement not listed above please don’t hesitate to contact Katherine on the numbers below. I work through all four seasons and will work to your specification whether it’s long term, short term or just for the day. Thank you.
