Keynsham Voice August 2023

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Outcry as ticket offices face axe at rail stations

EVERY railway ticket office in the Bristol region will shut under controversial plans that have sparked outrage from political leaders and disability campaigners.

Affected stations include Keynsham, Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Parkway, Filton Abbey Wood, Bath Spa, Yate and Oldfield Park, which sold a combined 600,000 paper tickets last year.

Great Western Railway (GWR) says staff would move onto platforms and concourses where they would be better placed to help customers and provide travel advice, as well as selling tickets.

A consultation into the proposed closures was due to end on July 26 but it has now been extended to Friday September 1. To have your say, visit https://www.gwr.com/haveyoursay

Labour metro mayor Dan Norris, the elected head of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), which is responsible for strategic transport, met Rail Minister Huw Merriman to raise his opposition to the plans.He told the Conservative MP that residents were “up in arms” and urged him to be “flexible and pragmatic”.

Keynsham’s ticket booth is open 6.45am to 9.30am, Monday to Friday.

n Turn to Page 3

TV crime drama

A new TV true-crime drama – in whose production Keynsham played a role – can be seen on BBC iPlayer.

PAGE 2

Childcare stress

A mum has described how Keynsham’s childcare crisis is taking its toll.

PAGE 5

Parking plea

People living in the Pixash Lane area of Keynsham have called for action to resolve parking and traffic problems.

PAGE 7

Hidden gems

The hidden treasures of Keynsham can be discovered next month as part of Heritage Open Days.

PAGE 8

Travel shake-up

People can have their say on proposals to transform the A4 Keynsham bypass that include better bus services into the town.

PAGE 17

Biggest Ever Sale!

The sights and sounds of Keynsham Musical Festival pulled in the crowds, culminating in a successful Family Festival in the Memorial Park - see Pages 27, 28 and 29 Photo: Colin Rayner

Timothy

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Local information

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Keynsham Town Council 15-17 Temple Street, Keynsham 0117 986 8683 www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk

Keynsham Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 848 7919

Police

www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk

General inquiries: 101 Emergency: 999

Complaints

Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk

Inquiries: 0117 926 2061

Emergency: 999

NHS Urgent: 111/ Emergency: 999 Anti-social behaviour team asb@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 842462

Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk (Freephone) 0808 808 5252

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and

in the TV version of a chilling true story

Outcry at threat to rail ticket offices

n From Page 1

Mr Norris said: “I told the minister just how concerned I am at the apparent railroading through of these proposals.

A NEW TV true-crime drama –in whose production Keynsham played a role – has aired on the BBC.

The Sixth Commandment –which is now available on BBC iPlayer - explores the deaths of Peter Farquhar and Ann MooreMartin in the village of Maids Moreton, Buckinghamshire.

The cast includes Timothy Spall, Anne Reid and Sheila Hancock.

Filming took place in and around Bristol, with the city’s Film Office assisting at locations including Blaise Estate, Flax Bourton Mortuary, South Bristol Crematorium, Circomedia on Portland Square - which features as one of the churches – and street scenes in Westbury on Trym.

Filming also took place in and around Keynsham, Bath and Clevedon. Keynsham Town Football Club car park was used as a base for the production.

The four-part drama tells the story of how the meeting of an inspirational teacher, Peter Farquhar (Timothy Spall), and a charismatic student, Ben Field (Éanna Hardwicke), set the stage for one of the most complex and confounding criminal cases in recent memory.

Town role in true-crime TV drama

“The plan in Keynsham seems particularly pointless. There will still be a railway worker on duty for exactly the same hours, but they won’t be allowed to sell tickets? How does that save money? Or improve passenger experience?

“I told the minister it makes much more sense for the railway worker to use their discretion and sell tickets to passengers who would find that helpful, maybe because they find it challenging to buy a ticket from a machine, or if there are issues with the ticket machines, or simply because there is a queue.

“Because if you’re running for the train or it’s pouring with rain, passengers to Bristol are not going to be happy having to cross the bridge twice.

for everyone, especially disabled people and those who struggle to use the internet.

He said: “Many people in the West of England value the advice provided by staff in ticket offices.

had fallen below 15 per cent. They said the plans would see ticket office staff working on platforms and concourses where they could be closer to customers and help them with a wider range of issues, while the kiosks could be phased out over a number of years.

The spokesperson said: “Digital tickets have made it easier and faster for customers to buy and manage tickets online, which means fewer people than ever are using ticket offices.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448

It also focuses on how suspicions around Field’s relationship with Ann MooreMartin (Anne Reid), Peter’s deeply religious neighbour, unlocked a series of chilling revelations. The drama explores the way in which Peter and Ann were manipulated by Field, exploring the police investigation and the high-profile trial, while highlighting the devastating effect of isolation and loneliness, as Field closed in on them. It was made in co-operation with members of the victims’ families.

“We need to do everything we can to encourage people onto our railways, not put up barriers. That’s vital if we are going to try to meet our ambitious net-zero targets.”

GWR reports that the Keynsham booth sold 5,587 tickets in the financial year 20222023, while 22,050 tickets were sold by vending machine. GWR did not say how many journeys from the station were booked online.

Cash payments accounted for 9.6% of transactions. Vending machine payments at Keynsham are by card only.

Mr Norris said the office closures would make life hard

“It’s not always simple knowing what’s best value, or the difference between peak and offpeak times, or why an advance single or a super-off-peak may be the way to go for a particular journey – tickets are tricky.”

Public transport and disabilities campaigner David Redgewell told South Gloucestershire Council cabinet: “This is causing great concern to disabled groups and we ask the council to formally raise objections.”

Mr Redgewell said tickets such as half-price fares for wheelchair users were not available at ticket machines, which sold only a limited range. Cabinet member for planning, regeneration and infrastructure, Cllr Chris Willmore (Lib Dem, Yate North) told the meeting: “That’s a complete failure to understand small stations or the

needs of elderly and vulnerable passengers.”

He added: “What they’re planning to do is pay people the same number of hours to be at the station but not allow them to sell tickets.

“That’s bonkers in anybody’s language and we will be campaigning strongly to stop this.”

A GWR spokesperson said transactions at its ticket offices

“With 85 per cent of ticket sales taking place outside a ticket office on the GWR network, we think it makes sense to put our people where they can be most help to customers.”

GWR’s passenger assist programme, which helps disabled and mobility-impaired customers navigate stations and board trains, will not be affected.

Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service l Letters: Page 36

The ticket office at Keynsham station is among those that may shut

Spall

Sheila Hancock

Photo: BBC

Anne Reid in The Sixth Commandment Photo: BBC

PARENTS are continuing their campaign for a solution to the childcare crisis in Keynsham.

A small delegation of mums met local MP Jacob Rees-Mogg at his Keynsham surgery last month to ask what he can do to help.

As previously reported by the Voice, one of the mums, Helen Philpott, organised a letter to Sir Jacob signed by about 140 local parents demanding action.

She has since received updates on efforts by the government and Bath & North East Somerset Council to improve the situation.

But although there have been positive developments, no immediate solution is at hand - prompting one mum to describe how the crisis is taking its toll on new parents.

Carla Brain said: “You’ve sacrificed so much to have a baby and it should be an enjoyable time, but I’m so stressed looking for childcare. All mums are in the same position.”

Carla had to delay her return to work as she could not find anyone to look after her daughter Opal, who is eight months old.

She resumed her role as a business development manager with a skincare company in April then took a month’s leave as she scrambled to secure childcare with family and friends.

Carla put Opal’s name down with several nurseries while pregnant. After a couple of options fell through, she secured two days a week with a provider, but that doesn’t start until September.

She felt disappointed by the meeting with Sir Jacob, feeling he was out of touch with parents’ concerns.

“I think it’s quite deflating the response we got. There’s never any solution.”

She cited the low minimum wage, making it hard to attract nursery staff, as a barrier facing anyone trying to set up a nursery.

“People aren’t going into these jobs because they don’t pay well. They go to supermarkets to get paid more.”

Carla added that statutory maternity pay is also too low to allow mums to stay at home instead of working.

“It’s horrendous for a mother in Keynsham who becomes pregnant and realises they can’t go back to work because they can’t get childcare.”

After the meeting with Sir Jacob, Helen Philpott said: “He did at least listen but wasn’t able to really suggest many solutions.”

Sir Jacob later wrote to Helen saying he had made representations on her behalf to the Secretary of State for Education about the issue and also to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions about statutory maternity pay.

Helen has also seen a letter Sir Jacob received from Education Secretary Gillian Keegan before the meeting.

In it, Ms Keegan says: “The government recognises that childcare is particularly important for mothers and their ability to work.”

But she adds: “Local authorities are responsible for the sufficiency of childcare places in their own areas and are therefore best placed to support with concerns of this nature.”

Ms Keegan said the government is providing more money for local authorities to increase the hourly funding rate to childcare providers, including an average 30% rise in the national average hour rate for two-yearolds from September.

She added: “We are ensuring a phased implementation of the expansion to the 30

hours offer to allow the market to develop the necessary capacity.”

Meanwhile, Chris Wilford, Director of Education, Inclusion & Children’s Safeguarding at B&NES Council, has written to Helen outlining the council’s efforts to improve childcare provision.

He said that, as well as the new nursery that is opening at Avon Valley Country Park soon, there are three other potential providers that the council is working with, helping them to search for premises.

He said: “We are acutely aware of provision gaps for 0-2 places. These places require additional staffing levels, which is the main challenge facing the sector across the country. We are actively discussing this issue with existing providers and potential new ones.”

He added that the council has an ongoing campaign to increase the number of childminders.

“I realise this doesn’t provide an immediate solution for residents currently looking for childcare. However, we are doing what we can.”

Helen said Keynsham’s birth rate rose 40% between 2010-11 and 2021-22, with the largest increase in the past five years, a period when the town lost two nurseries.

“This begs the question, why have B&NES - or whoever is responsible - not been proactive in solving a problem that the data very clearly shows has been a long time coming?”

She added: “I feel a bit deflated that I’ve now exhausted all options and the way forward is still very unclear. It definitely doesn’t feel like a problem that is high on anyone’s agenda.”

l Letters: Page 36

You’ve sacrificed so much to have a baby and it should be an enjoyable time, but I’m so stressed looking for childcare

The Voice front page in June. Right, Carla Brain with husband Scott and their baby daughter Opal

Helen Philpott - pictured here with her family - feels she has exhausted all the options in her campaign to improve childcare provision

Cool treat for Natalya’s litter-pick heroes

THANKS to seven-year-old Natalya Southgate, a large part of Keynsham where she lives has been cleared of rubbish.

She decided to organise a litter pick at Abbots Wood in Bilbie Green and invited friends to join her. Several of her fellow pupils from Pensford Primary School helped out, along with a few friends from Keynsham.

Pensford head teacher Warrick Barton said: “I’m very proud of Natalya for the determination she has shown to be proactive and do something about the litter in her area. In our busy lives, many of us can be quick to spot a problem but not so fast at creating a solution.”

Grabbers, bags, gloves and other kit were supplied by Keynsham Wombles, who were set up by Erica Davies to reduce the amount of litter in Keynsham and adjoining areas.

Erica said: “I’m absolutely thrilled that a group of local people have taken on the task of keeping Abbots Wood clear of litter.

“It’s such a lovely place and a shame if it is spoilt by litter. Being on the edge of our town, it is our connection with the wider countryside and so a very important place both for people and wildlife.”

The local Co-op in Queens Road, Keynsham, supplied 50 ice lollies to help the youngsters get through the afternoon.

Ten bags of rubbish were collected, which included a child’s duvet, food packets, drinks bottles and cans, and clothing. It was collected from all the streets around the area and also on the outskirts of the woods.

Natalya’s mum, Katerina, said: “The kids did so well and it was so hot, but they had a real sense of fulfilment in what they did. They also couldn’t believe some of the things they found!”

PEOPLE living in the Pixash Lane area of Keynsham have called for action to resolve parking and traffic problems near their homes.

Residents say they have been badly affected by the removal of on-street parking in the lane as part of works to accommodate the new Keynsham Recycling Hub.

Some have said they are now forced to park on the busy A4 Bath Road instead, prompting abuse from other drivers.

A meeting attended by about 20 residents has resulted in several requests being put to Bath & North East Somerset Council. They include:

l Remove double-yellow lines from the western side of Pixash Lane and the northern side of Ashmead Road.

l Add crossed-hatching boxes at the Broadmead roundabout to enable traffic to cross the roundabout smoothly and continuously during rush hour.

l Replace a sign indicating traffic to go round Broadmead roundabout before entering the Snapdragon Nursery.

l Reduce the A4 Bath Road speed limit to 30mph from Broadmead to Saltford.

l Add double-yellow lines at the junction of Ellsbridge Close with the Bath Road spur.

The latter request was made because residents said parking had intensified in the Ellsbridge Close area, with some vehicles poorly parked.

The meeting was attended Keynsham councillors Andy Wait and Hal MacFie, as well as two officers from B&NES Council.

Cllr MacFie told the meeting that parking issues near the recycling hub are likely to intensify when the facility reaches its target staffing of more than 200 with just 50 car spaces.

He added that the area is also likely to be used as a ‘park and ride’ by bus users as the frequency of the X39 service is stepped up.

Some residents living on the Bath Road asked if they could have vehicular access to park in their front gardens. The B&NEs officers at the meeting said no blanket permission could be given and that residents

would have to apply through the planning system.

Following the meeting at the Masonic Lodge in Keynsham, Cllr MacFie told the Voice: “The meeting has clarified residents’ needs, and B&NES officers have agreed to consider these. In the meantime, some residents are struggling with the new regime and I hope that we can find a temporary solution for them.”

One of the residents, Louise, who asked us not to use her surname, said the meeting was useful but added: “Whether our requests have been heard and will be actioned remains to be seen.”

She said the parking situation near her home has not improved since she shared her concerns in a Voice article earlier this year.

“Nothing has changed whatsoever.

B&NES keep repeatedly using the same script to all our letters of complaint and are defiant

they have done nothing wrong. We get abuse and threats from other drivers when parking on the A4. The police have confirmed we are not parking illegally.”

Another resident, Laura Murray, is among those who has been parking on the A4 since double-yellow lines were painted over her usual parking spot.

She said: “That’s the only legal place I can park because anywhere else is double yellows. They won’t let me park on the land outside my house because it’s not a dropped kerb and apparently it’s too close to the junction.”

Ms Murray said she had to deal with rude messages written about her in local Facebook groups, drivers coming past “effing and blinding” at her, and abusive language written in dust on her car.

She said: “I don’t feel safe in my own home at the moment.”

Manda Rigby, B&NES Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “The need to provide these parking restrictions has been in the public domain for some time as it formed part of the transport assessment in support of the planning application for Keynsham Recycling Hub that was submitted in January 2021.

“The correct process was followed to introduce the double-yellow line parking restrictions through a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO), including notices on site and adverts within local newspapers as required.

“Once we have had time to monitor traffic safety, we will undertake a review of the parking restrictions to determine whether any changes can be made. We’ll also be investigating some other potential ideas suggested by residents for improving Pixash Lane.

“Separate to this, we have removed a section of double-yellow lines in nearby Ashmead Road, which will free up some parking there. These had been put in on a temporary basis when a booking system had operated at the recycling centre, but are no longer necessary.”

Voice reporter and John Wimperis, Local

Democracy Reporting Service

Double-yellow line in Pixash Lane have sparked complaints from nearby residents.

Natalya Southgate (third from left) and her helpful friends take a break Photo: Ros Anstey

THE hidden treasures of Keynsham can be discovered next month as part of Heritage

Open Days.

The national festival returns between September 8 and 17 to play its part in Keynsham’s High Street Cultural Programme.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences –and it’s all free.

Keynsham’s cultural project coordinator, Beth Whalley, said: “There is a wealth of amazing history in our town, but if you don’t know where to look, you might just miss it.

“We’re so excited to be working with B&NES Heritage Services, passionate local experts, community groups and other history enthusiasts to showcase all the heritage Keynsham has to offer – from the Romans right through to the present day.”

Whether you’re an adult, teenager or toddler, there will be

Tourist: I’m so sorry for what I did

A KEYNSHAM tourist filmed carving names on an inner wall at Rome’s Colosseum reportedly did not realise how old the monument was when he did so.

According to the BBC, Ivan Dimitrov has written an apology to Rome’s mayor.

He etched “Ivan + Hayley 23” - his and his girlfriend’s names - on the 2,000-year-old amphitheatre with a key.

His actions were filmed by a bystander in June and sparked worldwide condemnation. He now reportedly faces legal proceedings.

In the letter, seen by BBC News West, Mr Dimitrov

Hidden gems open for us to discover

something for everyone.

l Keynsham Pop-Up Exhibition: Sharing fascinating stories from Keynsham’s medieval and industrial histories and displaying - for the first time in Keynsham - exquisite decorative stone artefacts from the abbey (Keynsham MakeSpace, September 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17).

l Creativity Snapped! – Our Heritage in Photographs: A photographic display of Keynsham’s High Street heritage, created by Snap & Stroll in collaboration with young people locally (Temple Street Canteen, September 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17).

l Albert Mill Open Day: A walk through history with pieces of original machinery and photographs, a timeline, a family quiz, and refreshments in the gardens (Albert Mill, September 9 and 10).

l Keynsham Abbey Site Open Day: Wander around the remains of this significant medieval abbey, founded in 1166, and experience a guided tour given by local experts (Keynsham Memorial Park, September 9 and 16).

l Fry’s Somerdale – Then and Now: Enjoy a guided tour and walks around Somerdale,

originally the home of a factory making some of Cadbury’s most famous products (Somerdale Shed and Community Garden, September 16).

l Hidden Histories at Durley Hill Cemetery: Drop in and discover this peaceful Victorian burial ground and learn how it became a major Roman archaeological site in the 1920s (Durley Hill Cemetery, date to be confirmed). For visitor information and the most up-to-date event listings, visit www.hikeynsham.co.uk/ whats-on or pick up a leaflet from Keynsham Town Council’s offices at 15-17 Temple Street.

Keynsham Heritage Open Days is supported by Keynsham’s Local Cultural Programme, part of Historic England’s National Cultural Programme. It is funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s Heritage High Street Fund; the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Future High Streets Fund; and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

offered his “heartfelt and honest apologies to the Italians and to the whole world”.

He continued: “I admit with profound embarrassment that only after what regretfully happened did I learn of the antiquity of the monument.”

He added: “I assume all responsibility and I will sincerely and concretely commit myself to redeem and remedy the mistake I made.”

The lawyer for Mr Dimitrov, Alexandro Maria Tirelli, told the BBC: “We have already formulated a plea bargain request.”

Park bridge takes shape

WORK has continued on preparing the new pedestrian bridge at Keynsham Memorial Park. It was expected to open last month but was still closed off as the Voice went to press. Sides with a rusty appearance have been added to the structure since it was lifted into place in June after being made off-site. Bath & North East Somerset Council told the Voice it would be issuing an update about the bridge in due course.

Volunteers at Keynsham Abbey open day last year

Photo: Mike May

Keynsham’s Albert Mill is among this year’s attractions Photo: Mike May

A stone boss from Keynsham Abbey

Photo: B&NES Heritage Services

Taking the temperature

Green space ‘a priority’ at site for 213 homes

CURO says it will prioritise green space when it builds up to 213 homes on the Withies Green site in Keynsham.

Art group comes of age

spaces, community orchards and allotments.

Pub hailed for helping community is for sale

THE Crown Inn at Keynsham has been put up for sale.

ENVIRONMENTAL campaigners took the political temperature of visitors to Keynsham Music Festival.

Participants were invited to show their levels of concern about the climate, the cost of the living, and the effectiveness of their local MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg. Festival-goers did so by placing a sticker on ‘thermometers’ representing the three themes.

The informal poll, in which more than 40 people took part, was organised by Mogg Watch, a group of volunteers who seek to

raise public awareness of what they see as Sir Jacob’s failings in tackling the climate crisis.

Group spokesperson Emma Green said of the festival poll: “The results showed a striking pattern, with all but two respondents indicating that they are ‘very concerned’ about climate change, the cost-of-living crisis and how well they are being represented by MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, particularly on these issues.”

l Music festival photo special: Pages 27, 28 & 29

As reported in last month’s Voice, Curo bought the site from developer Mactaggart and Mickel, which secured outline planning permission for the homes. The scheme prompted opposition from about 600 residents who voiced fears about the loss of green space and wildlife habitat, and more traffic.

The site spans 25 acres, from the southern side of the A4 Bath Road, opposite Pixash Lane, to the northern edge of the Manor Road Community Woodland.

Curo, the Bath-based housing association and developer, says 30 per cent of the properties it builds on the site will be “affordable” – a figure stipulated by Bath and North East Somerset Council when it granted outline planning permission – and that its plans include green open

Land for a new playing field, to allow the expansion of Two Rivers Primary School on the adjoining Hygge Park development, will be provided as part of the scheme. A separate sports pitch will also be provided for public use.

Victor da Cunha, CEO at Curo, says: “Our plans for Bath Road look to address the severe lack of homes for local people in Keynsham, offering solutions to the diverse housing needs of the area. This project is set to be a catalyst for the creation of an accessible and vibrant neighbourhood, with 67 affordable homes included in the plans.”

Curo say they are refining their proposals. A reserved matters application will need to be submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council to determine the specifics.

COMPTON Dando Art Group celebrated its 18th anniversary with a ploughman’s lunch at the Compton Inn. The group meets each week in the village hall, and many of its original members still attend regularly. These include organiser Sonia Priest, Trish Baker, Molly Griffiths, Trina Pope, Jean Harnaman and Maureen Baker, all enjoying painting as well as group social events.

Group leader Sonia Priest said: “The social aspect of our club is just as important as the painting, and members of the group support each other on a regular basis. Four new members have joined the art group recently and have settled in very well. We are now full to capacity.”

But it has assured customers it’s likely to be business as usual for quite some time yet.

The pub on the Bristol Road has become renowned for its services to the community.

In 2021, landlord Dave Yeomans received a Shining Light award given by Bath and North East Somerset Council to honour those who supported others during the pandemic.

Dave adapted his pub’s services to offer a delivery-only shop, supplying food and urgent supplies to the local community 24-7, including NHS staff and key workers. He also supplied free school meals and free meals to those in need throughout and has donated to Keynsham Foodbank.

The pub announced on its Facebook page: “After almost 10 amazing at the Crown, the time

has come for us to follow new adventures and hand over the reins to someone new.

“We will be selling our muchloved business and baby! Whilst the pub is on the market for sale, we will be open as normal offering our full service.

“All events and private hire events will still be going ahead and we will offer our help to the new owners with the future booking.”

Customer tributes to the Crown on Facebook included:

“You’ve been a huge asset to Keynsham and beyond, such a shame for you to go.”

“Thank you for looking after the community during Covid and beyond. Thank you for all the things you have done behind the scenes to make life easier for others.”

The pub responded by saying: “We have a while to go yet, we’re not in a rush.”

Sensory Space at Keynsham Library

and toys, books and a comfy rug and cush on area, p us a black out tent Sessions are free to book or drop-in

V sit our blog to find out more about the space and to download a room guidebathneslibraries.wordpress.com

Three of the founder members, front, Trish Baker, Molly Griffiths and Sonia Priest, with other art group members Photo: Ros Anstey

KEYNSHAM MEMORIES with Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society

Pub quiz boost for 11 charities

A TOTAL of 11 good causes are the latest to benefit from a charity quiz held at the Compton Inn in Compton Dando. The monthly quiz has raised more than £24,500 over the past 11 years. This year, a fund of £5,300 has been shared between the following charities nominated by the quiz teams:

l Butterflies Haven, of Keynsham, which supports families affected by autism.

l Keynsham Music Festival.

l St Mary’s Church, Compton Dando.

l Beloved, which supports women working in the sex industry in the Bristol area.

l Children’s Hospice South West.

l 46th Kingswood (1st Longwell Green) Scout Group.

l 107th Bristol (Whitchurch) Scout Group.

l Hengrove Rainbow and Whitchurch Brownies.

l High Littleton Scouts and Cubs.

KEYNSHAM MENCAP

Another street hit by falls

WHILE controversy continues over trips and falls in Keynsham High Street, a redesigned street elsewhere in the country is at the centre of similar concerns.

Local newspapers report that “everyone seems to be falling down” in newly pedestrianised Victoria Street in Wolverhampton.

According to the Express & Star, the ‘half a kerb’ has prompted several complaints, with city councillors among those to have lost their footing.

This is a rather good photograph of the old County Bridge, which spanned the River Avon for hundreds of years until it was swept away in the flood of July 1968.

The bridge was the first one upstream of the city of Bristol, so it played a role in several military campaigns, such as the Monmouth

Rebellion. It provided the only route for attackers from the south to cross the river and attack the city by land.

In the centre of the parapet of the main arch is the County Bridge Stone or “Abbot’s Chair”, which today forms the flood memorial in Keynsham Park.

l The Nest Project, which provides free clothing and equipment for young children in Bath and North East Somerset.

l Phoenix Allstar Cheerleaders. The money is raised from quiz entrance fees (which include a free supper) and raffle profits. There are no prizes for the winners.

Happy 45th birthday to us!

KEYNSHAM and District Mencap Society celebrated its 45th birthday at the Riverside Inn in Saltford.

The family fun day on Saturday July 8 had something for everyone. Attractions included a bouncy castle, play area, garden games and stalls, plus face painting, glitter tattoos and a raffle. Thank you especially to Arthur David Foodstuffs for the fabulous hampers.

Keynsham Mencap’s very own DJ Barry provided the music, and there was lots of dancing. The pub took care of the catering with their Caribbean kitchen and pizza oven. New fundraiser Clare Anderson said: “Although the rain came down towards the end of the afternoon, we were very fortunate to hold the event in the beautiful Riverside Inn.

“Holly and her staff were so helpful in allowing us to move the outdoor stalls inside.”

Clare added: “It was a delight to see so much community support for this amazing local charity. I’d like to say a massive thank-you to all those who donated to our raffle and tombola.

“The event was a celebration of 45 years. Some of our members have been with us for all that time.

“Our membership is increasing year on year, which shows the quality of our service and the

need for such clubs, providing a supported space for people with learning disabilities and autism to have a social life.”

Operations manager Laura Jefferies said: “It was wonderful to see so many of the Mencap families, our volunteers, and supporters at the event. We’re passionate and very proud of what we do here at Keynsham Mencap.”

Keynsham and District Mencap Society was launched in April 1978 by a group of parents frustrated by the lack of provision for children with various learning disabilities, and it came under the national Mencap umbrella.

Over the years, the society has grown into the professional charity we see today. With offices on Bath Hill in Keynsham, it runs

nine projects, offering members aged five to 65 a wide range of opportunities to socialise, expand their prospects and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Kath Dawson, chair of trustees, said: “I’m a regular volunteer myself and I get to see the joy our members experience first-hand at the weekly clubs, on day trips and events, and even holidays. There is really nothing better than being involved in helping this wonderful charity.”

Keynsham Mencap are looking for volunteers. If you can spare a few hours a week or more, or would like more information, please email laura@ keynshammencap.org.uk or visit our website - https://www. keynshammencap.org.uk/volunteer/

It was introduced as part of the £15.7m scheme and is aimed at helping blind people with tapping sticks navigate the road.

Bosses have conceded the kerb, which runs through the centre of the street, is a “trip hazard” but said there were no plans to make any changes.

However, a council spokesperson said the scheme was set to undergo its formal independent road safety audit shortly.

In Keynsham, a design review of the High Street cycle lane is due to take place this summer. l Our thanks to Voice reader Tony Kirby for highlighting this story.

Hospice plea for volunteer drivers

ST Peter’s Hospice is seeking volunteer drivers to help with the day services it provides at its hospice in Brentry and out in the community.

Drivers are needed to take patients and loved ones to their appointments, visits and more. Volunteer driver John says: “You meet some lovely people in this role from all ages and backgrounds – it’s great chatting with them as I drive.”

For more information, visit https://www.stpetershospice. org/hospicevolunteers

Santa Dash cash

SALTFORD Santa Dash committee has been awarded £275 by Saltford Parish Council. The money will help organisers run their charity fundraising event this coming December.

Have your say on travel plans

PROPOSALS to transform the A4 Keynsham bypass that include better bus services into the town centre will be the subject of a public consultation that opens this month.

The aim of the ‘A4 Corridor’ scheme is to make travelling by bus, walking and cycling easier on the route between Bristol and Bath, cutting traffic jams and air pollution.

The project is being divided into five sections, including one from Hicks Gate to the Broadmead roundabout. The proposals include new bus lanes and segregated cycling, meaning there would be fewer lanes for cars on some sections.

Also envisioned is a new ‘mobility hub’ on the A4 at Keynsham, to provide direct access for high-speed bus services to the town centre.

Project leaders say it can take over 30 minutes

to get to a bus stop and then bus journeys into either city centre can take up to 50 minutes.

The project is a partnership between Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority (WECA).

More details of the proposals and their impact will be shared during WECA’s online consultation, which is scheduled to run from August 14 to September 24 at www. haveyoursaywest.co.uk

Saltford Parish Council will receive a presentation about the consultation at its meeting on September 5, which residents are welcome to attend. Residents can also speak during ‘public time’ before the council resolves its response to the consultation.

Red phone box will be blooming

THE red phone box that used to be in Norman Road, Saltford, has now been replaced.

The original stood near the junction of the A4 Bath Road for over five decades before it was destroyed in a road accident last year. The parish council ordered a replacement, which has now been installed.

Flourish at Glenavon Farm has

Bank makes way for charity shop

offered to fill the decommissioned kiosk with summer and winter flowers for free, as a gift to the community.

Lee Bignell, CEO of local company the Mobius Group, oversaw the phone box installation at no cost to the parish council. The council is in discussions with a local business to buy and maintain a defibrillator on the phone box.

A CHARITY shop that has taken over the former Barclays Bank branch in Keynsham High Street is due to open in early August. Sense, which support people who are deafblind or who have complex disabilities, says the shop will stock women’s clothing and accessories, menswear, bric-a-brac, household items and collectables, books and media, childrenswear and toys. The opening hours will be Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm.

CHANGING FOR THE BETTER with Transition Keynsham Havoc of ‘slow violence’

AsI write this, southern Europe is suffering in an unprecedented heatwave. We don’t yet know if Cerberus, as it’s aptly known, will top 50C, but it’s already taking Europe into uncharted territory.

So far, the UK has avoided the extreme heat, stuck north of the jet stream that’s bringing us sharp showers and unseasonably cool temperatures.

Reading about Europe burning (literally) and climate breakdown, am often overwhelmed by the slow-moving but inexorable crisis that’s heading our way, and the fact that there’s very little I, as one individual, can do about it. I’m amazed by the lack of concern that many people seem to have and the absolutely pathetic response of our government.

And then I’m reminded of the term ‘slow violence’. Coined in the 1960s, it’s structural violence experienced over a long period of time, sometimes over generations. It occurs slowly and invisibly, and often its effects are delayed or displaced. It happens right under

our noses, but we just don’t notice it.

Even though people suffer and die, the protagonists are many and not easy to hold to account. Industries that are high greenhouse gas emitters and governments that fail to implement policies can be partly to blame, but it’s hard to pinpoint a clear perpetrator. And in the case of climate change, we’re all culpable, in the way we live our daily lives.

We’re like boiling frogs, and I don’t know what it will take to make us wake up and jump out of the pot. Perhaps it will only be when we’re directly affected, by a flood that destroys our home or a heatwave that kills our relative, which is what’s happening now in Italy, Greece and Spain.

But by then, as Southern Europe is just beginning to understand, it’ll be too late. Climate change has already sneaked down the garden path and unscrewed the hinges on the front door. Now it’s about to wreak havoc on all our houses.

Liz Barling

All aboard for family fun

THIS year marks 180 years since the SS Great Britain was launched into Bristol harbour – changing global travel forever.

To celebrate, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is welcoming children 16 years and under for free this summer when you book tickets online.

Highlights include an exciting new food trail – ‘Birthday Banquet Blunder’ – where families can follow a series of clues hidden throughout the ship.

The trail will teach children about the food that passengers

n BACK TO NATURE

Let’s be grateful to amazing ants

THERE is often a day in July or August known as “flying ant day”. It appears that this is the same day each year, but the likely explanation is that the mature fertile ants only emerge when the weather conditions are right.

Typically, these ants will be the common black garden ant Lasius Niger who, when the conditions are right, will emerge to look for a mate and start a new colony.

would have eaten on board.

Visitors can also step back in time by peering through a pair of augmented-reality binoculars that will transport them to 1843. Created by Zubr, a leading augmented-reality studio based in the South West, the experience will allow visitors to see the ship and the floating harbour as they were 180 years ago.

Book a visit between July 19 and September 3 to redeem the ‘Kids Go Free This Summer’ offer. Terms & conditions apply. ssgreatbritain.org/summer

Ant colonies are usually made up of one queen and up to 15,000 sterile female workers. After the virgin queen has completed her only mating flight, she bites off her own wings, then digs a small chamber in the soil into which she will crawl to lay eggs. They will develop into sterile wingless worker ants who will tend and feed her and extend the nest. She may live up to 15 years, spending the rest of her life underground. The queen will lay fertilised eggs which turn into the male and female winged insects only after the colony is two or three years old.

Very few of the many thousands of virgin queens that you see survive to create their own mature colony. Birds take advantage of the surprise feast and, even if the queen finds a suitable site, perhaps under some paving or near some soft soil, she will quickly become very weak as she cannot eat until the first brood has matured and can forage for her.

The queens of two other similar types of ant may parasitise the nests by waiting until nests are created then infiltrate them and kill the queens, replacing all the workers with their own offspring.

As seen on BBC Wild Isles documentary, the Large Blue Butterfly has a very strange lifecycle involving ants. After the eggs hatch, caterpillars first feed on wild thyme, but then drop

onto the ground and are carried away by ants who mistake them for ant grubs and return them to their nest. Here, the caterpillars feed on the ant grubs themselves, rapidly growing in size before turning into chrysalises. Worldwide there are over 12,000 species of ant, of which only 51 are found in the UK. It is estimated that for every human there are 2.5 million ants. They are all adapted to play a crucial part in healthy habitats; they eat dead vegetation and insects or predate other invertebrates, thus recycling nutrients and maintaining a balanced biodiverse ecosystem. Anyone who is lucky enough to find ants in a compost bin will know how the soil is improved by ants constantly burrowing and chewing up vegetation. Like many social insects, ant colonies thrive because of good communication skills and selflessly working to a common aim. E.O. Wilson called ants “the little things that run the world”. He was not wrong.

Studies of ant behaviour have contributed to the development of computer learning and ways to optimise use of space on web servers. Architects are inspired by complex structures of ant nests which are built using existing features yet regulate humidity and temperature.

So next time you observe an ant diligently collecting up debris, or running off to communicate where a source of sugar is to be found, perhaps marvel at the millions of creatures who contributeing so much to a thriving ecosystem and teaching us how to run our lives too.

Julia Shahin

CLIMATE change is a real challenge to wildlife, as it struggles to feed and breed amid changing weather patterns. Extreme summer temperatures have increased sightings in the UK of birds normally associated with southern Europe as they are forced to fly much further north than usual to find suitable feeding areas.

This applies particularly to birds that feed in wetlands (subject to drying up). The black-winged stilt is one such bird that can now be seen. Here is a male, photographed recently by our member, Andrew Harrison, at Slimbridge Wetland Centre in Gloucestershire.

Black ant (Lasius Niger)

Photo: Aleksandra Balodis

Large Blue Butterfly on wild thyme

Photo: Brian and Sue Pengannon

Flying black ants

Photo: Clint Budd

Girls brigade buzzing after scooping award

MEMBERS of the 3rd Keynsham

Girls’ Brigade have been honoured for their efforts to help the local bee population thrive.

About 20 girls have been planting and maintaining bee-friendly wildflower seeds and bulbs within the grounds of Keynsham Methodist Church and Keynsham Baptist Church, as well as in containers.

They have also distributed seed bombs and bulbs, which allow pollinators to thrive, to the local community, including care homes.

The brigade has now been rewarded for its work with a People for Nature award as part of the 2023 Bee Bold Awards.

Brigade leader Linda Pillinger said: “I’m very proud of everyone involved. It’s encouraging to see the immediate impact of this initiative, and I know the girls are excited as well.

“What’s really excited me is the amount of interest people have taken in it and the amount of pleasure the girls have had

watering, planting and generally looking after the garden.”

The girls have also created displays to showcase the importance of gardens, bees and insect pollinators to educate visitors and encourage others to take action.

Another of the brigade’s achievements has been to twin the garden at Keynsham Baptist Church with a rural garden in Migori, Kenya, through the

Ripple Effect charity.

The Bee Bold Awards are part of the West of England Combined Authority’s work to make the region the “bee and pollinator capital of the UK”.

The People for Nature award is for groups that have created the best gardens or pollinator spaces within their workplaces or local area.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who leads the authority, said:

KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

Peter Pan - from Neverland to Somerdale

VISITORS to the Roman villa remains and war memorials at the entrance to Somerdale are sometimes puzzled by the small statue of Peter Pan that stands on the site. Those who spent their working lives at Fry’s will be familiar with it, or think they are.

The Quaker origins of Fry’s and Cadbury led to a paternalistic management style in which employees were treated as members of large family. Remuneration and working conditions were good and the company provided many welfare and recreational facilities.

Staff appreciated this and recognised it in a most unusual way in 1928, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Joseph Fry, who started the company.

“Pollinators matter – in terms of helping flowers grow, but also in ensuring we can have the delicious West of England produce we’re renowned for, not to mention keeping our precious countryside and other green spaces maintained and cared for.”

“I hope these award winners inspire others to take steps to support our pollinators as well, no matter how small they seem.”

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Barbers shop’s happy new home on the High Street

A POPULAR barbers shop has moved into its new home in Keynsham High Street.

Short Cuts Barbers started in Hanham 16 years ago, building up a loyal customer base that followed the shop to Station Road, Keynsham, eight years ago.

Sarah Miller, who runs the shop, said: “After Covid, business was quieter as some people got use to cutting their own hair when barbers were unable to open, but I still held on to a good customer base.”

But the rising costs of rent, water and electricity meant it was time to move to smaller premises so the business could continue.

Short Cuts Barbers has now re-located to the High Street opposite the church/bus stop.

Opening times remain the same - Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am-5.15pm, Saturday 8.30am-2pm; closed Wednesday, Sunday and Bank Holidays. No appointments necessary.

Sarah said: “With the shop being a lot smaller, seating is limited so

The employees clubbed together to fund a statue of Peter Pan, the boy who never grows old in J.M. Barrie’s novel of that name. Presumably, the thought was that the company never grew old. Peter Pan was a favourite subject for statues, the most famous and original one being that at Kensington Gardens in London, cast in bronze in 1912 by Sir George Frampton.

It took a couple of years to raise the money and commission the Fry statue, which was presented to the company in 1930. It was placed on a plinth next to the entrance lodge, where it remained until this building was demolished in the late 1980s.

Peter Pan was then moved and reinstalled, with some ceremony, at a new site outside E Block, where the factory shop was later sited. It remained there until 2010, shortly before the factory closed.

No-one knew what the future of the site would be and Hugh Evans, who was responsible for preserving the archives, did not know what to do with it.

Someone suggested that it be donated to the children’s hospice at Wraxall. They were very keen on the idea, although there is no historic connection between the hospice and Fry’s.

Kraft gave ownership of the statue to the hospice on the understanding that if they no longer wanted it, they must offer it back to the company. So, you can now see the original statue at the hospice at Wraxall.

But this is not the only statue! When Major

Egbert Cadbury retired in 1963, he wanted a memento of his time at Somerdale. The factory carpenter was tasked with carving a replica Peter Pan statue that could be presented to the major. He was pleased to accept this, and it found a home in the garden of his Failand mansion, where it stayed until he died in 1968. His widow subsequently moved to Hampshire and took the statue. It is now in the possession of the major’s grandson. So, this is Peter Pan Mark 2!

However, in 1963 the carpenter actually carved two statues, and Major Cadbury chose the best one. The other one, Peter Pan Mark 3, was never used and remained in the archive store until the factory closed.

What should happen to it? It was offered to St Monica’s but they did not want it. Consideration was given to sending it to Bourneville, but it had no

connection with the site there, so Hugh Evans decided it should be displayed at Somerdale, close to its original home.

This was agreed with Mondelez (formerly Kraft), who own the statue and paid for its installation adjacent to the other Fry memorials at the site entrance, so preserving a small piece of Keynsham’s history.

(We are indebted to Hugh Evans for the information in this article.)

Local history walk

On Sunday August 13, Steve Spear will be leading a walk around the centre of Keynsham, on the popular theme of ‘Keynsham’s Forgotten Pubs’. Meet outside St John’s Parish Church for a 2.30pm start. The distance will be a mile or so and should not take more than 1.5 hours. There is no charge and no advance booking required.

Richard Dyson

I would appreciate your patience at busy times and look forward to seeing you all.

“My first two weeks of opening have been amazing, and I hope this continues.”

Left, Peter Pan Mark 3 in his current location

Above, the statue in its original position next to the entrance lodge, where it stayed until the building was demolished in the late 1980s

Vehicle charging hub for village

SALTFORD is to get an electric vehicle charging hub for public use.

It will be paid for by the West of England Combined Authority’s Green Recovery Fund.

Bath & North East Somerset Council, which identified Saltford as a location for one of the hubs, said: “These hubs will be groups of fast chargers at the heart of rural communities, located off-street and available for public use day and night.”

The likely location is the B&NES Council-owned car park at Wedmore Road. It will be available for residents and people using Saltford Hall and other amenities nearby. More details will be revealed in due course.

Flea market date

A FLEA market will be held at Saltford Hall on Sunday September 17, from 10am to 1pm.

There will be tables in the main hall, foyer and both rooms upstairs. The Community Café will be open for hot and cold drinks, cake and bacon rolls.

To rent a table for the event, call Angela at 07889564944.

KEYNSHAM WALKERS ARE WELCOME

Drizzle fails to dampen spirits

WITH the threat of rain hanging over us, more than 30 walkers, who again included some newbies to the group, assembled at the Memorial Park gates for the first of the July walks.

Derek and Vanessa had reccied the walk two days earlier and had encountered some paths being overgrown, which they attempted to clear.

This was the shorter of this month’s walks, being 3.5-miles long, and took us past the station and onto the Somerdale perimeter path. The two dogs that were with the group were able to explore the long grass either side of the path.

The authorities had been quick to replace the wooden bridge that had been washed away earlier in the year and had created a new path to Durley Lane.

Turning right, we headed along the lane to the end, where the footpath turned left up some steep steps and on to the Humpty Tumps, where again the authorities had been hard at work building steps with a handrail down to the rather rusty footbridge over the railway line.

Bearing left, we then headed back to Keynsham across Durley Lane, and along the edge of the playing fields. At the end of the walk, 10 thirsty souls headed for Club2 2 for some welcome liquid refreshment.

n Despite incessant rain the previous day, 21 people turned up for the second of the July walks.

KEYNSHAM SCOUTS

Derek and his wife Vanessa had again done a recce, and warned us of mud and overgrown footpaths, and we set off in a drizzle towards Chewton Keynsham.

Everyone was in two minds whether to wear anoraks or not, and blue skies soon gave way to overcast conditions. Again, with new members joining the group, and at a cracking pace, we were soon heading back to Keynsham via Engineers Lane.

Veering northwards, we walked through The Meadows housing estate, crossing Charlton Road, and picked up the footpath by Queen Charlton. It was here that we encountered the muddy and overgrown conditions that Derek had promised.

As there was no clay pigeon shoot, we were able to pass the Century lakes with ease and head back home. The five-mile walk took about 2.5 hours, and again everyone enjoyed the morning’s outing.

n Our next walk is on Sunday August 6 at 10am, meeting at the Memorial Park gates. It will be a shorter walk of about three miles - everyone is welcome and it’s free.

Just a reminder of our Walking Festival is from Friday September 29 to Sunday October 1. The walk on the Sunday will be us teaming up with BBC Children In Need for our annual Countryfile Ramble, when donations can be made for this worthwhile event. Everybody is welcome, including children and well-behaved dogs.

Beavers and Cubs had plenty of outdoor fun at their district camp - activities included fire-lighting, cooking and games, all topped off with a colour run

Fly-tippers cost Scouts dear

FLY-TIPPERS have struck at the Chelwood Scout camp site, depositing a huge pile of crushed stone, plastic and rubbish. The perpetrators – who dumped the waste alongside an existing pile of road stone used at the site – clearly had access to a crusher prior to dumping, as illustrated by this photo.

The fly-tipper struck in the middle of the day and was spotted driving away. Investigations are ongoing.

In the meantime, given it is the main camping season, urgent action was taken and the rubbish was removed to avoid any health and safety issues.

This cost several thousand pounds, money the Scout group cannot afford. If anyone has any information, then please contact the scout group or the local police accordingly.

n During two weekends in June, our Beavers and Cubs were delighted to have the opportunity to attend their district camp along with members from nine other Scout groups.

Over the two weekends, more than 500 members attended, supported by day-time volunteers. Cubs enjoyed activities such as

POETRY CORNER

A Stranger in the House

There is a stranger in my house I’ve named her Bernadette.

It’s odd – I know she’s always here, But we have never met!

She likes to hide my pens away Each time want to write, I think when I catch up with her There’ll likely be a fight.

Today, a bunch of keys missed, Then she had moved my brush! It really isn’t funny When I am in a rush.

And if I ever meet her I’ll have one thing to say.... “Please, leave things where I put them” But no doubt she’ll have her way!

Sylvia Kirby

fire-lighting, cooking and games, all topped off with a colour run. Beaver camp was for many the first time away from home under canvas. Activities came thick and fast - sledges, assault course and treasure hunt using the theme ‘Super heroes’. Both weekends were a huge success - lots of smiles, great memories, new friends made and everyone looking forward to the next camp.

n Keynsham Scout Auction and Book sale 2023 is on Saturday September 30. Visit our website

www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk for more details about how you can donate items and details for the day. In the meantime, put the date in your diary for an event not to be missed.

n Keynsham Scouting continues to provide many fabulous opportunities for our young people and seeks adult volunteers to manage and make things happen.

If you have time and would like to learn more about volunteering, email scouts@1stkeynshamscouts. org.uk and let’s chat.

Scene at Keynsham Barbers

Plaster and the scattered debris of building works.

Customer: What happened to the children’s hairdressers?

Barber: The wall’s been built too far forward. We’ve lost the children’s area. We couldn’t open the drawers at one point. And there was no door so we couldn’t get in, to start with.

Customer: Well, at least you’re here now.

Barber: Actually, I’m not here.

Customer: Oh?

Enter Well-wisher, left, bearing bouquet, bottle of bubbly, and chocolates.

Wellwisher: Bea! I heard you were retiring – wanted to catch you before you left!

Barber: (to customer) Sorry love, ’scuse me a second…

SNIPPETS NEWS

RNLI collection

KEYNSHAM branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution raised £498.26 from its annual collection in Keynsham High Street, the Chandag shops and the Salford shops.

Branch secretary Julian Hannam said: “The result was more than last year’s and the public are to be thanked for their continued generosity towards the RNLI.”

The Tesco superstore in Keynsham is allowing the branch to hold a collection there on Saturday August 12, and branch members will be on duty in the store from 8am to 7.30pm.

CHILDREN at Castle Primary School in Keynsham have done their bit to improve their local area with the help of local Wombles.

School councillors – pupils who are voted for by their peers to represent the other children – wanted to help the community and decided that a litter pick would be a great idea.

The school contacted Erica Davies, of Keynsham Wombles - pictured here with the children - who came along to give an assembly. She spoke about the impact of dropping litter, not just in the local area but worldwide, and supplied the school with equipment to the children to pick litter safely.

Ann Trueman, a higher level teaching assistant (HLTA) at the school, said: “The reasons our school councillors gave for wanting to do this was ‘We want to make our local community a better, safer place to live’ and ‘Picking up litter will help look after our wildlife and help the environment.’

“We only went around the outside of the perimeter of the school, but just look at how much rubbish we collected!”

There are two school councillors per class at Castle Primary, from Year 1 up to Year 6. They come up with ideas for improvements at the school and also organise events for the local community, such as cake sales to raise money for charity.

PEN TO PAPER Dance Little Lady, Dance

gaze in wonder as you glide with ease

With movement airborne, as if from trapeze

On tiptoe, carried by the lightest of air

With style and grace and effortless flair

Enchanting me, I’m left in a trance

Dance little lady, dance

No sign of tiredness or energy flagging

You leap and twirl, spinning, zigzagging

In a frenzied, swirling, fiery jiggle

With squeals of joy and a constant giggle

Stretching and strutting as I call for more

Filled with such verve, this child adore

You fling your arms upwards, up to the sky

On tippy toes, tippy toes, floating on by

Like a ballerina, a pirouette to perform

You were destined to dance from the day you were born

Dancing rhythmically, long golden ringlets sway to and fro

Tied up in ribbons and a colourful bow

Your quick jerky movements, to the left, to the right

Twisting, gyrating with all of your might

Covering every inch of the floors full expanse

Dance little lady, dance

John Howlett

Keynsham Creative Writers welcome new members – call George Liddell on 0117 914 8654.

KEYNSHAM IN BLOOM

Fingers crossed for gold again!

OUR local Keynsham in Bloom entries were judged on July 13, 14 and 17, mostly in pouring rain.

Meanwhile, entries from Keynsham town were due to be judged by South West in Bloom as the Voice went to press. It’s been a very busy but enjoyable time.

The Pocket Park, Keynsham Station, High Street containers, hanging baskets, our cemetery, Holmoak and Queens Road planters are looking lovely, so fingers crossed for another gold for Keynsham. We will not know until October, so deep breath until then.

Alpines have been planted in the Queen Road tubs, together with some bedding, by local volunteers and will look lovely throughout the summer with very little work. The station gardens have been very well maintained and the mulch will keep the moisture in and the plants flowering longer. They do look a picture and a great thanks to all our volunteers who help maintain our projects.

KEYNSHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL

We have almost completed our Keynsham in Bloom 15th anniversary mosaic, which will hang in the Pocket Park very shortly. We have had a lot of support from local societies and this project has been sponsored by IJ McGill, who we thank for their kindness.

Keep well, keep safe and keep gardening.

Mary Woodman

Open Morning and Evenings at Wellsway School

Year 6 - Thursday 21st September - Tours from 6.00pm - 8.00pm

Year 6 - Tuesday 26th September - Tours from 9.15am - 10.45am

We are delighted to confirm our two open morning dates; we are offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2024. Visitors always comment on the purposeful, caring and happy ethos of the school, so what better way for you to find out about our vision and values then to come and experience them for yourselves? For those parents/carers who are unable to attend, there will be an additional Year 6 Open Evening in September. The morning will provide an opportunity to see the school in action; to visit curriculum areas and discuss the Wellsway School experience with students and staff. Please be advised that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last tour will depart at 10.20am. Our staff and students are the biggest advocate to our school and I am sure when you visit, you will see why we believe Wellsway School is a unique community.

Sixth Form Open Evening

Thursday 5th October, between 6.00pm - 8.00pm

We are delighted to invite key stage 4 students to our Sixth form open evening. On the evening students will be able to see the enhanced range of subjects and enrichment opportunities on offer at Wellsway School and learn how we work as a collaborative Sixth Form ‘Futura Sixth’to be a truly comprehensive sixth form. Students will have the opportunity to speak with staff; attend a presentation from school leaders; speak with sixth form students and discover more about our wide range of courses and experience that support students throughout Post-16 and to their next step. This will be followed up by our Open Morning for external applicants, on Wednesday 18th October 2023, between 9.05am - 10.45am.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448 Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

Music festival is a family hit!

KEYNSHAM Music Festival has been hailed a great success, blessed with fine weather and the best visitor numbers since the Covid-19 lockdown.

There were music and comedy shows in the run-up to the big weekend, when the Family Festival attracted crowds to the Memorial Park.

Festival chair Mike May said: “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive - we now seem to have struck the right balance between activities and performances for young families. Seeing so many happy young faces was an absolute joy.”

Comments from festival visitors included: “So lovely. Such a wonderful variety of things for everyone to do and enjoy. It also had a really nice feel of people having fun.”

“It was absolutely brilliant, and we will definitely want to do the whole day next year if it’s similar. The kids loved the

shows, all the food and snack trucks, and playing with the circus gear. Loads of the stalls were great. It was lovely to see so many people there, the place was buzzing. There was a real community vibe.”

“Absolutely amazing festival, yet again!”

Mike said that although all the ticketed events in the run-up to the weekend were excellent, ticket sales were disappointing. But the festival overall did well in a difficult economic climate.

Mike said: “As with everything else these days, our running costs are constantly increasing and are very difficult to keep in check.

“Back in December of last year, there was a distinct possibility that we would not be able to continue and were planning for drastic cuts.

“However, we are very grateful to local businesses who have been so supportive and

have enabled us to continue. Thankfully, donations were back on target this year and we are likely to break even for the festival as a whole.”

An innovation this year was a Memory Café for those living with dementia, and their carers.

Mike said: “We wanted to provide an opportunity, for those normally unable to do so, to experience just a bit of the festival atmosphere. It was a great success and will definitely be repeated next year.”

Another plus was the launch of the Nova Youth Arts Festival as an integral part of the festivalan opportunity for young people to take part in and enjoy their own activities and performances. As for next year, Mike said: “The Family Festival is a very busy environment which does not suit all children, so we will try to build a quieter sensory zone with lower-key activities.”

l More photos on Pages 28 & 29

Some of the volunteers keeping our town looking great

n

Crowds flocked to the Memorial Park for the weekend finale of Keynsham Music Festival all photos on this page by Colin Rayner

August, 2023

MUSIC FESTIVAL n KEYNSHAM MUSIC FESTIVAL

Performers

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448 Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121 Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk

Above, the Memory Café for those living with dementia, and their carers

Right, the U3A swing band at the Victoria Methodist Church in Keynsham

Left, one of the entertainers

Photos: Caitlin Brennan

Top right, one of the stalls at Keynsham & Saltford Eco Festival

Festival photos, left to right, by Rob Reid, Helen Parker and Carla Jade Mitchell

All the fun of the festival -

Photos, left to right, by Laura Jefferies, Jodie Hawkins and Julie Coleman

spread their wings

Photos: John Aldridge

Music-makers and acrobats

Photos: Colin Rayner

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Lisa Loveridge OneSpirit Interfaith Minister and Pastoral Care Coordinator at The Chocolate Quarter in Keynsham

I RECENTLY went on a pilgrimage with 30 people from Keynsham, Whitchurch, Withywood and further afield.

That’s a journey undertaken to nourish my spirit, which could be to feel closer to God or to who I am, or to find the Divine in me.

In my case, my intention was to connect with and receive from Mary, who to me represents the feminine aspect of God.

There are organisations like the British Pilgrimage Trust which organise pilgrimages for people on any faith path or none and, of course, many pilgrims who do not follow a particular faith travel the famous pilgrim ways to places such as Compostela in Spain.

There’s something about going away with other people with a shared purpose that creates a sense of community. And being

away from home gave a new perspective on my day-to-day life.

I loved the opportunities for singing with others and for walking meditation. I was intentionally open-hearted, with few expectations. I was able to rest in a way that I’m not usually. Did I connect with Mary? Yes, but in an energetic way rather than by having any great revelations.

I’m aware that there’s a lot of privilege in being able to take time out for this, which has made me reflect on how pilgrimage can be incorporated into my home life.

First of all, there’s something about having a purpose, even if it’s just the intention to go for a walk, or imagine going for a walk, whilst being open to whatever might come up. Singing with others is something we can do listening to the radio,

Have a free lunch with us

ARE you, or do you know someone who is, finding life hard at the moment? Struggling to put food on the table because of the rising cost of living? Or just feeling lonely, depressed or anxious about the future?

Keynsham-based charity One Community Trust will be serving free two-course lunches in St John’s Church Hall on Saturday August 12 between 12pm and 2pm.

or we could seek out opportunities to physically do this. Walking meditation just requires that we notice the sensation of our feet as they move. If we can’t move our feet, we can imagine what that would feel like. In an ideal world, we might find a patch of clean grass and walk barefoot on it for a while. Doing these things will hopefully make us feel more rested and relaxed. Then there’s the re-entry into our normal life. It can feel jarring coming away from such an experience back into imperfect reality. It can require gentleness and compassion for oneself.

A friend suggested making some time every day to revisit some of these practices, as a way to stay in touch with the experience and to keep it alive. So that’s my intention going forward.

Takeaway meals will also be available, which may be a preference for the elderly and also people with mobility or mental health issues. Catering will be limited to 50 people, so early booking is essential. If the event proves popular, the free lunches will continue to be provided every month and into next year.

Book by email: octkitchen@outlook.com

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

Make a will to help hospital

DO you need a will? Make or update your will in September and lend your support to the Royal United Hospitals, Bath.

RUHX, the official NHS charity for the Royal United Hospitals Bath, is offering the public the chance to make or update their will throughout the month of September for a reduced fee, so the charity can continue to provide extra extraordinary care for everyone in Bath and beyond.

Solicitor firms across Bath are providing their professional services for free by donating 100% of their fees to the hospital in a bid to raise the importance of planning for the future and helping to raise funds for patient care.

The costs for a professional will-writing service are £195 for a standard single will, or £295 for a standard joint will. Visit ruhx.org.uk to find a participating solicitor or contact jan.witt@nhs.net

There’s something about having a purpose, even if it’s just the intention to go for a walk, or imagine going for a walk, whilst being open to whatever might come up.

n WHAT'S ON

July 19 to September 3

n Kids go free this summer - from July 19, Brunel’s SS Great Britain is welcoming children 16 years and under for free when you book tickets online. Highlights this summer include a new family food trail, AR binoculars and a cricket display. ssgreatbritain.org/summer.

Wednesday August 9

n Royal British Legion Women’s Section cream tea afternoon, 2pm4pm, at the RBL Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2JA. £4.50 per person. All welcome. Proceeds for the Poppy Appeal.

Sunday August 13

n Local history walk. Steve Spear will lead a walk around the centre of Keynsham on the theme of ‘Keynsham’s Forgotten Pubs’. Meet outside St John’s Parish Church for a 2.30pm start. The distance will be a mile or so and should not take more than 1.5 hours. No charge and no booking required.

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays

n Tai Chi Shibashi 11am12 noon. Gentle flowing movements for physical health and emotional wellbeing. Easy to learn and a joy to do. All ages and abilities. Saltford Hall BS31 1DS. Contact Ruth on ruth. hartley6@icloud.com or 07912 077458.

n The Royal British Legion Women’s Section Keynsham Branch meets on the first Monday of each month upstairs at the RBL Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2JA, 7.30pm. Occasional speakers, social events and outings.

n Keynsham Bridge Club can now welcome new experienced players to our Monday evening sessions. Contact Pat 01275 835583 or Diane 0117 9861267.

n Key Voices Community Choir meets Mondays at 7.30pm at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, BS31 2BQ (or third Monday of month at Royal British Legion). We sing a wide range of music, with occasional performances and social events. We are a friendly non-auditioned choir, all are welcome. First session free to newcomers.

n Saltford Whist Club, Saltford Hall, Mondays (except last two weeks in August), 1.30pm-4pm. Contact Malcolm 01225 872555.

Bath Road, BS31 3JS. Go Row Indoor caters for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Classes last 45 minutes using rowing machines. First class is free, then £5 (or £18pm). Email gorowindoor@ avoncountyrowingclub.org.uk to book. More details at http:// avoncountyrowingclub.org.uk/.

Tuesdays

n Badminton - friendly, beginners and improvers, mixed, adult (18 - 80!) group play every Tuesday 10am-12 noon at Keynsham Leisure Centre. Ring Clive 0117 9866793 or just turn up.

n St Keyna Townswomen’s Guild meets at the Fear Hall, Keynsham, from 10am to 12pm on the second Tuesday of each month.

No charge. www.keynshamdaa. co.uk, ksdaa22@gmail.com or 07392442966.

n Mat Pilates Classes

Taught by Physiotherapist Kate

Thurs 7-7.55pm (intermediate)

Thurs 8-8.55pm (beginners)

St Francis Church, Warwick Rd, Keynsham. 6 week block of classes £54. You are welcome to do a trial class first £10. 1:1 sessions also available at my studio in Saltford.

Book online or by contacting Kate - 07518 522292, www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

Saturdays

Young carers make their voices heard

FOUR young carers from Keynsham were among those who travelled to the House of Commons to make their voices heard.

The group of 15 performed their own song as part of an orchestra with Bath Philharmonia. Their song, Listen, was a hit with the Lords, Ladies and MPs in attendance, and the group’s message to be heard was loud and clear:

“We will try everything, Let’s keep going ’til we reach our goal, Nothing’s gonna stop us, we’re on our way, We’re young carers, we are the greatest!”

n CPK Badminton Club is a friendly but competitive club playing at Keynsham Leisure Centre, Mondays 7.30-9.30pm. Match night Fridays. Ideal for existing and potential league players, or those looking to improve their badminton. Email info@cpkbadminton.club

n ASP Poetry Circle meets every third Monday of the month, 10am11am, Keynsham Library. Meet in the ‘pod’ - up the stairs and straight ahead of you as you can go. Bring two or three of poems to share; your own or other poets’.

Mondays/Thursdays

n Yoga For Men

Monday 7-8pm, mixed ability Keynsham Baptist Church, BS31 1DS.

Thursday 7-8pm, mixed ability Saltford Hall, Wansdyke Room, BS31 3BY. Free first class, £8 thereafter.Book online at www. yogadad.co.uk

Mondays/Fridays

n Butterflies Haven, Keynshambased charity supporting families of children with autism, sessions Mondays 7pm-8pm for ages 1118 and Fridays 5.45pm-6.45pm or 7pm-8pm for ages 4-11, at St Francis Church, Warwick Road, Keynsham, BS31 2PW. A safe place for children to be themselves, supported by volunteers. Sessions must be booked in advance. For more information, email info@butterflies-haven.com.

Mondays/Fridays/Sundays

n Indoor rowing exercise classes, Mon 7pm, Fri 5pm and Sun 10.15am, Saltford Rowing Centre,

n Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, 7.30pm-10pm, Fear Hall, Keynsham, every Tuesday. Contact Brian and Jo, Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, on 0117 9868540, or just turn up. Everyone welcome.

n Seated Pilates class Tuesdays at 11-11.40am Saltford Hall - Avon Room, Wedmore Road, Saltford. This class is aimed at anyone who would benefit from an adapted pilates class with a chartered physiotherapist. This includes anyone with a long-term health condition (e.g arthritis), loss of confidence or those wanting to get fitter but have difficulty attending a floorbased session. You are welcome to do a trial class first to see if it suits your needs. Cost is £10. Booking is essential. Please book your place by contacting Kate 07518 522292 www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

Thursdays

n Longwell Green Orchestra meet each Thursday at Longwell Green Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.40pm. We have players of all abilities. Email Contact@ longwellgreenorchestra.org.uk or 07972 844073 beforehand to tell us what instrument and what level.

n Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance runs Music for the Mind sessions for people living with dementia and their carers. St Dunstan’s Church Hall, Keynsham, 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month, 10.30am-12.15pm. Singing and gentle exercises from 11am.

n Volunteers at Keynsham Repair Cafe – a free monthly repair event, with a café, at Keynsham Baptist Church on the High Street – help to fix your everyday household things like toasters and lamps, sew a button onto a jacket, glue a handle back onto a mug, as well as more unusual items. Every second Saturday (same as Keynsham Farmers Market), 10am– 12pm. Upcoming dates: April 8 (Easter Saturday), May 13, June 10, July 8, August 12, September 9, October 14, November 11, December 9. Website keynshamrepaircafe. wixsite.com/home

n Keynsham Sequence Dance Club Monthly Dance, 7.30pm to 10.30pm, Fear Hall, Keynsham, third Saturday of the month. Contact Brian and Jo, Keynsham Sequence Dance Club, on 01179868540 or just turn up. Refreshments (coffee/tea and biscuits), £5 each.

Sundays

n Keynsham Kings Flag American Football. Do you fancy trying out a new sport? Do you love the NFL? Flag American football is taking the UK by storm as a fastpaced, non-contact version of American football. Training: Sundays 10.30am-1pm, Manor Road Playing Fields. Mixed sport - anyone 16 yearsplus welcome. No previous experience needed. Contact us for more info on the Keynsham Kings Facebook or Instagram pages.

To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448 Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk

One of the young people said: “I think politicians still have a lot to learn about young carers, but doing this today has made a big difference and means we can keep talking to them to get them to listen more.”

The young people were supported in the initiative by The Carers’ Centre, which helps young and adult carers across the Bath and North East Somerset region.

The independent charity’s support allows carers to have space to talk, build connections with others, leave with tools to continue to support their wellbeing, and access opportunities to engage in social action.

The Carers’ Centre says that young carers are providing more care than ever, with less provisions in place. With the added anxieties due to the cost-of-living crisis, young carers

are often left feeling isolated, ignored and misunderstood.

Jacqui Orchard, CEO of The Carers; Centre said: “It is vital that our young carers are heard, especially by decision-makers.

“We have supported children with caring responsibilities who are as young as five years old. Given the amount of time they spend caring for their relative, the time they need

for education and their age, they can often feel left out of the conversations that matter most to them.

“We shouldn’t forget that young carers are determined, dedicated and have life skills that are beyond their years.”

For more information about The Carers’ Centre, visit banescarerscentre.org.uk or call 0800 0388 885 (Monday-Friday, 9am-1pm).

Young carers who went to the House of Commons, with Bath MP Wera Hobhouse MP

n LETTERS Letters for publication can be sent to news@keynshamvoice.co.uk or by post to Letters, Keynshamvoice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

Our MP won’t help improve childcare

I ADMIRE the efforts of the parents attempting to increase the provision of childcare in Keynsham. We’ve been in a very similar situation with our two little ones. My partner put our little boy’s name down as soon as she fell pregnant with him but even then, a place was only available for when he was 14 months old.

Writing to Rees-Mogg, however, is a tactic unlikely to succeed.

Rees-Mogg is a radical. He sees the world through the distorting lens of his own ideologies, in this case the free market. For him, there is no role for intervention, the market will provide. That places him out of step with the Government, who recognise the importance of early-years childcare in improving educational outcomes and allowing parents to return to work.

In fact, Government intervention is one of the reasons the sector is finding it so difficult to recruit. By providing free childcare for three- to four-year-olds but paying nurseries inadequately for that childcare, the Government has intervened in the market but in such a way as to make it uneconomical for nurseries to stay in business.

A pragmatic MP could assist. Anybody prepared to approach the problem in an objective fashion could see through the problem. Rees-Mogg never will.

He will not lobby the Government on behalf of his constituents to increase the funding for free hours for childcare because it conflicts with his radical ideologies. He would rather see nurseries go out of business and parents have to stay at home (mostly mothers) to care for their children.

This isn’t a problem that personally affects Rees-Mogg and never will. There is no prospect of this MP ever seeing the problem from a different perspective other than his own.

The solution, increasing the rate at which free hours are provided, is plain as a pikestaff but one obscured from view to extremists such as the local MP.

Justin Valentine

State system is a better way forward

CHILDCARE is important to the many parents that need to work with today’s high cost of living, also helping their children to be both

Spotlight on Bath Hill’s past

WITH reference to the letter submitted by Lionel Hutt in the July edition of the Voice, may I clarify a few facts.

The painting is based on a photo and shows the bottom of Bath Hill. The cottage on the left-hand side was called Spring Cottage because, oddly enough, it was on a spring and the dairy situated there in the 1880s washed out its churns in the fresh water.

Spring Cottage later became Mr FC Ollis’s bakery. The ground floor had been left below road level when the bridge had been raised by the turnpike improvements in 1829s and, as a result, customers bought their bread from a first-floor window that opened onto the bridge.

The building was not demolished to make way for the Drill Hall as that had already been built in 1879. A rival bakery was Jarrett’s on the right. In 1891 Abel Jarrett was working as a furnace stoker at the Brassmills but by 1896 he had changed his trade, having raised the capital to build his bakehouse. The shop was added the following year.

Brian Vowles

PROPERTY

is owned by the members of the club and run by a committee. Both the members and the committee are totally unconnected with the local or national Conservative Party or association. Thank you for the opportunity to clarify this matter.

Councillor Alan Hale

Use your vote to save the planet

WE’VE just experienced the hottest June on record - an average of 15.8C against a previous high of 14.9C. The Mediterranean and elsewhere are currently suffering extreme temperatures, leading to wildfires and many deaths from overheating.

Meanwhile, our member of parliament is still advocating fracking for gas and squeezing the last drop of oil and gas from the North Sea to burn more fossil fuels.

KEYNSHAM £900,000

An outstanding 4 double-bedroom detached residence that’s been remodelled and extended in recent years. It currently provides luxurious accommodation measuring in excess of 2,500 sq ft (233 sq m), which is well suited to those wishing to own a unique home set within mature, secluded grounds on the Wellsway side of town.

EPC: E

Tenure: Freehold Council tax band: E

socially and educationally prepared for life. A state system would be a better way forward. There also needs more funding on the subject of school building repairs.

Helen Dudden

Blind passengers need this service

THE proposed mass closure of rail ticket offices in England, including all run by South Western Trains, will have a hugely detrimental impact on blind and partially sighted people’s ability to buy tickets, arrange assistance and, critically, travel independently.

Ticket offices are not just about selling tickets. They provide a reliable first point of contact for many kinds of staff assistance, from arranging sighted guidance through the station and safely on to the train, to advising on any changes to their journey that may be required.

have sight loss, and I cannot use the touch-screen ticket machines that rely on the customer being able to see the screen. If the ticket offices close, I will not be able to travel independently.

The Government claims it wants to “bring staff out from behind the glass” but in truth it risks leaving blind and partially sighted people behind a new barrier.

Modernisation of our railways shouldn’t be a by-phrase for apps and touchscreens; modernisation should mean building a rail network that takes into account everyone’s needs and doesn’t leave anyone behind.

Steve Hyde, Regional Campaigns Officer, South West (RNIB)

No link between club and party

I AM writing having received a complaint from a resident about the actions of some men who verbally abused his wife and her running club as they passed by and then, when she remonstrated with them, they became even more offensive.

My complainant wrote to me because this happened outside ‘The Conservative Club’ and he wrote to me as a Conservative councillor, as he believed the men involved were from the club.

The building in question is known in some quarters, colloquially, as The Conservative Club. However, I am writing this to disabuse people of that understanding.

The building is no longer linked to the Conservative Party in any shape or form and has not been for a number of years.

The building is now Club 22 and

Renewable energy from wind and solar are now the cheapest and quickest forms of energy generation, yet the inaction of the government in grasping the opportunity should disturb us all. ask everyone to spend some time considering what they would write to their grandchildren’s grandchildren in a letter about climate change. Have you acted to save the planet, how quickly, could you do more?

A start would be to select an MP who cares for the future residents of Keynsham and the wider area of North East Somerset.

David Leverton Chewton Keynsham

Temple Street parklets ‘ego trip’

I HAVE yet to meet anybody who approves of the Temple Street alterations.

The ‘parklets’ and street furniture are nothing more than a designer’s ego trip. Raising the table and seating prohibits their use by elderly people.

The straight-backed bench seating would be uncomfortable to use. It would have been more appropriate to have bench seating and planters on the pavement, as installed in the High Street.

At last there is to be a design review of Keynsham High Street. The road should be returned to its original condition prior to its redesign, with a white line marking the cycle lane. It speaks for itself that in 35 years as a resident, I never witnessed or heard of any tripping accidents in the High Street!

Tony Kirby

STORAGE / SELF STORE REMOVALS

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We offer this service at great prices, Our friendly, trustworthy and professional staff will surely be able to cater to your every need.

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Please call to discuss your requirements and competitive rates

Packing materials available for purchase prices available on request

Saltford: 01225 360360

Keynsham: 0117 904 9000

FRY’S BOWLING CLUB

Toast to veteran as Brian’s bar opens

FRY’S Bowling Club has honoured its oldest member, Brian Hill, by officially opening Brian Hill’s Bar.

Brian is pictured cutting the ribbon as he celebrated 64 years of continuous club. He received a bottle of his favourite tipple from chairman Peter Fiedor.

Brian worked at the chocolate factory and started playing bowls in the inter-departmental competition. He then joined the bowls section and throughout the years served the club as an officer and carried out maintenance.

Brian was elected a life member in 1997 and continued to bowl until the end of last season. The club are delighted to be able to honour Brian in this way.

Bristol and District League:

The month started with defeat at Victoria Park and leaders Redland Green.

In the fourth game in two weeks between the two clubs, Fry’s welcomed Knowle ‘A’ and a dramatic finish propelled Fry’s up the table.

Rink 1 dominated the guests, with rink 2 tight all the way, and Knowle pulling away on rink 3, leaving Fry’s lead hovering around the 10-shot mark. With the score looking like a 6-4 to Fry’s, the game took a dramatic turn.

Knowle went into the final end on rink 2 one shot up, but Fry’s packed the head, with a good shot from the number three removing a Knowle bowl. Fry’s took four shots and another two points.

After falling behind 11 shots with three ends left on rink 3, Fry’s closed the gap to four shots going into the last end. A poor end saw Fry’s getting five bowls closest to the jack to complete a remarkable comeback, giving Fry’s 10 points from the 61-36 win.

A battle of the mid-table teams saw a tight,

low-scoring visit to Henleaze ‘A’. After each club took a rink, the game came down to Fry’s three behind overall, but tied on the rink. A conservative end saw Fry’s pick up a single shot, which gave Frys four points from the 37-39 loss, seeing Fry’s sit fifth in the table heading into the off week.

June 22: Fry’s 44-50 Victoria Park - Rink 1, 12-19; Rink 2, 21-15; Rink 3, 11-16; (2-8)

June 29: Fry’s 31-57 Redland Green - Rink 1, 1222; Rink 2, 9-13; Rink 3, 10-22; (0-10)

July 6: Fry’s 61-36 Knowle ‘A’ - Rink 1, 26-5; Rink 2, 16-13; Rink 3, 19-18; (10-0)

July 13: Fry’s 37-39 Henleaze ‘A’ - Rink 1, 13-12; Rink 2, 11-20; Rink 3, 13-7; (4-6)

Cups:

Following a disappointing 104-56 loss in the first round of the City and County of Bristol Clarence Davey at home to Knowle, the second round of the Bristol and District League Lloyd Trophy saw Fry’s travel to Knowle the following night, in the second of four fixtures in two weeks with Knowle.

A close game came down to the final end, with Fry’s needing five to win. Once again this

SALTFORD LAWN TENNIS CLUB

Andy’s rally challenge

SALTFORD Lawn Tennis Club were delighted to be invited to take part in the annual Saltford School fair.

The tennis event was led by the club’s coach, Andy Gray, along with Joyce Pickard and Rachael Tonkin. They provided three and a half hours of free non-stop fun tennis challenges for lots of enthusiastic and appreciative children.

The youngest age group took part in ball balance and target challenges.

But the most popular challenge for the older children was who could maintain the longest rally with Andy the coach.

season, the final bowl to make the necessary shots was just wide. With only a single from the end, Knowle held on for a 45-42 win.

Clarence Davey: Fry’s 56-104 Knowle - Rink 1, 8-31; Rink 2, 16-15; Rink 3, 13-42; Rink 4, 19-16

Lloyd Trophy: Fry’s 42-45 Knowle - Rink 1, 9-26; Rink 2, 21-8; Rink 3, 12-11.

The Somerset Bowls Association competitions proved unfruitful for Fry’s, with defeats in both the Turnbull Cup and Wedmore Plate. A wet night at Keynsham went the way of the home side 66-54. The Wedmore Plate at Norwest went in similar fashion, with Norwest comfortably winning two rinks and winning a tight third rink to take the overall win 75-60.

July 4: Fry’s 54-66 Keynsham - Rink 1, 24-13; Rink 2, 11-16; Rink 3, 6-17; Rink 4, 13-20

July 18: Fry’s 60-75 Norwest - Rink 1, 10-26; Rink 2, 26-10; Rink 3, 9-23; Rink 4, 15-16

Friday Triples League:

Honours in shots were shared in the Triples League trip to Severn Vale, but Fry’s took home seven points. With Fry’s narrowly taking two rinks, Severn Vale took the third, tying the scores at 50 apiece.

Only two points were picked up at Page Park, before another game against Knowle saw Fry’s picked up four points in 54-44 loss. A local derby against Keynsham went to Keynsham, with Fry’s only taking two points.

June 16: Fry’s 50-50 Severn Vale - Rink 1, 20-15; Rink 2, 17-15; Rink 3, 13-20 (7-5)

June 23: Fry’s 44-67 Page Park - Rink 1, 7-26; Rink 2, 17-12; Rink 3, 18-26 (2-10)

June 30: Fry’s 44-54 Knowle - Rink 1, 9-28; Rink 2, 17-12; Rink 3, 18-14 (4-8)

July 7: Fry’s 40-60 Keynsham - Rink 1, 9-26; Rink 2, 18-15; Rink 3, 13-19 (2-10)

fun and enjoying playing tennis. A representative of the Saltford PTA said: “We loved having the club at the school fair and thank you so much for coming. All the children really enjoyed the taster sessions.”

Many thanks to Andy, Joyce and Rachael for their fantastic efforts in promoting tennis within the local community while spreading the word about their great club.

If you have been inspired by the recent Wimbledon championships to take up tennis or dust off your rusty racquet, you can find information about coaching and membership by emailing sec.saltfordtennis@gmail.com or visiting https://clubspark.lta.uk/ SaltfordTennis Club.

There was a leader board throughout the afternoon and the coaching team were amazed that several of the children achieved rallies of over a hundred shots.

It was also great to see many of the parents joining in too, having

Non-members can also hire courts for £6 an hour (floodlights extra) using the online Clubspark booking system.

Saltford Lawn Tennis Club provided hours of fun challenges on court for children attending Saltford School’s fair info@eveleighs.com

A huge demand for 3-4 bedroom detached bungalows in Keynsham.

4 bedroom extended semi-detached properties in Keynsham - highly sought after.

Located in Marksbury - properties wanted for buyers looking to move to countryside areas.

Similar properties required - 4-5 bed semi-detached family homes in the Wellsway School catchement area.

Detached bungalows located in Saltford requiredbuyers waiting.

3-4 bedroom houses located in Saltfordhighly desireable.

MEMBERS of Keynsham Bowling Club got the chance to try on their new shirts after collecting them at their July coffee morning.

They are pictured under the flag pole where, above the club flag, flies the flag of Ukraine, which has been there since the invasion as a show of solidarity for the people of that country.

League bowling is now well under way and here, as promised in last month’s article, is a results update.

First the good news, which has to be our ladies. As well as nine straight league wins, they have also been enjoying good cup results.

They are through to the second round of the Southey Cup plus, after a great win in the Fear Cup, they were looking forward to playing Bath as the Voice went to press.

Regretfully, our men have not experienced similar success. In the Thursday Bristol and District League, our A team won promotion last year and now play in Division 1. The quality of teams in this league is good and we are struggling, having won just one of 11 fixtures.

The B team also went up a division and is playing in Division 3, where it has won four of 10 fixtures. Our C team is in Division 4, with three wins from 11.

On Saturdays we play in the North Somerset League, and in East 1 our A team is in fifth place, with three wins out of six. Both our B and C teams are in East 2, with our B team having won one out of five, and our C team one out of six.

Our most successful men’s side is the Friday

Our smart new look

Triples team, winning eight of 13, and they are currently third in a league of 12. We are also in the semi-final of the Triples Cup.

In our cup competitions, we lost at home to Redland Green in the first round of the Lloyds Trophy but beat local rivals Frys in the Turnbull Cup. In the next round, we were drawn away to Purnells and narrowly went down against a strong side.

BRISTOL BASEBALL CLUB

BRISTOL Brunels’ trip to take on the Cornish Claycutters in Truro ended in two losses in the BBF/SWWBL A clash on Sunday July 16.

In the first game, the Brunels could not come to terms with strong pitching from the Claycutters’ Dan Kitts. Bristol’s development team scored just three runs despite getting runners on base throughout the game.

The Brunels’ fielding was perfect, with Alex Lane-Kieltyka shining in his first stint at third base. Ryan Harris was another player making his debut in an unfamiliar position, but his performance at catcher indicated there is more

to come from him in this crucial role. Alex Kaiser made his debut at left field and produced catch of the day to ensure an error-free game for the Brunels.

The second game followed a similar pattern as the Brunels failed to produce any offense, and the Claycutters won 15-2 behind another strong pitching performance by Peter Carlin.

The Brunels were again good in the field with Jordan Nichols, debuting at second base, completing a double play to put an end to the Claycutters’ scoring in the third inning.

Lane-Kieltyka made his pitching debut

and struck out five Claycutters in a very solid performance from the mound.

“Whilst we were missing a few key players, I was delighted with our overall performance, particularly in the field where we have vastly improved our ability to cut down our errors,” said Richard Evans, the Brunels player/manager.

“We had players playing in new positions for the first time who did an excellent job, and Ed Smith deserves particular praise for the way he took charge of our rookie outfield.”

The Bats, Bobcats and the Buccaneers had their games washed out.

Since our club was created in 1957, mixed team bowling has always been a feature of our matches. This is reflected in our membership of the Mixed Mid Somerset League, which bowls on a Friday evening. The club takes the opportunity to field new and well-established alongside each other, giving valuable experience to beginners in a competitive league.

Mike Barrow

All change for Ks as new season looms

There’s plenty of football to look forward to at Crown Fields during the first few weeks of the season, as follows:

Sat Aug 5: First team v Hengrove Athletic, 3pm

Tue Aug 15: First team v Portishead Town, 7.45pm

Sat Aug 19: First team v Longwell Green Sports, 3pm

Tue Aug 22: Reserves v Chilcompton Sports, 7.45pm

Sat Aug 26: First team v Longlevens (FA Vase), 3pm

Tue Aug 29: First team v Odd Down (Bath), 7.45pm

Even if you can’t make it in person, you can keep up to date with the Ks’ fortunes in next month’s Keynsham Voice

NOW that a year has passed since the decision last summer of Keynsham Town’s manager, support staff and the bulk of the first-team squad to move on, the club is looking forward with great anticipation to their second season in partnership with Total Pro Soccer.

Ks club secretary Jules French said: “The FA’s baffling decision to relegate us to the Toolstation Western League Division One has sunk in now, and the signs from our pre-season friendlies thus far indicate a more promising season ahead for us.

“We have beaten Royal Wootton Bassett Town from a higher level, together with two other impressive victories over Bristol Telephones and Hanham Athletic.”

The Ks reserves finished last season strongly in the Uhlsport Somerset County League Premier Division and will similarly be looking to push on this season.

Despite the rising running costs that the club has had to bear, which affect sports clubs in the same way they do individuals, admission prices for men’s games at Crown Fields have been frozen again for

the fifth season running at £7 for adults and £4 for those aged over 65 (under-16s free). Reserve games are a flat rate £3 for over 16s.

But you can save yourselves money by buying a season ticket, which allows free admission to all home league games for the first team and reserves for next season; these are £99 for adults and £59 for the over-65s.

For an extra £12, you can buy a permit for free car parking in the stadium car park, valid for 12 months. Season tickets can be bought on the day of a game at the ground, or alternatively please email jules1233@live.com

The club would also like to thank its band of loyal local sponsors, including Smart Computers and McGill Transport (first team), The Old Bank (reserves) and their kit suppliers KitCo, whose financial input and support will help them to keep progressing both on and off the pitch.

In addition to this, the stadium’s facility management company has also just announced a sponsorship deal for the ground with Paprika Bristol, which will also be of benefit to the club moving forward.

BUILDING SERVICES

KEYNSHAM TOWN FC

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