Keynsham Voice November 2024

Security costs soar for Remembrance parade

Keynsham’s Remembrance parade in 2023 - new security barriers will be used this year for the first time

NEW security measures have forced changes onto plans for the Remembrance parade in Keynsham.

In the past, temporary road closures to allow the parade to proceed along its route have been controlled by lightweight plastic barriers.

But this year, following police advice, Keynsham Town Council will use hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) barriers which – as well as being expensive to hire – are more robust and harder to manoeuvre.

Therefore, organisers have decided to shorten the route of this year’s parade, which takes place on

Sunday November 10. Instead of assembling and dispersing in Ashton Way, the parade will start and finish in the High Street.

Following a service at St John’s Church at 9.30am, the parade will make its way along the High Street and down Bath Hill to the Memorial Gates at the park.

The Remembrance service will start at 11am and last about 20 minutes, after which the parade will head back up Bath Hill to the High Street before

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Jailed for disorder

A Keynsham man has been jailed for his involvement in August’s disorder in Bristol.

PAGE 4

We’re snap happy

A local photography group has been given national exposure after being featured in Amateur Photographer magazine.

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Housing fears

B&NES Council has urged the government not to force “unforgiveable” developments on the area by doubling its housing targets.

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Flats approved

A vacant office building in Keynsham can be turned into flats, planners have ruled.

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Footway opens

A new footway over the River Avon has opened, linking Saltford and Bitton.

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n NEWS

Poppies return

A CASCADE of poppies is once again flowing down the side of St John’s Church in Keynsham in time for Remembrance commemorations.

The poppies – knitted and assembled by members of the Royal British Legion and other local residents – fell from the church tower four years ago and proved too heavy for volunteers to put back. But now local company Alide Hire Service has come to the rescue, and the poppies are back in place.

A church spokesperson said: “We are indebted to Alide Hire, who have willingly supplied, at no cost, the hoist equipment to make this happen.

“Keynsham is well prepared in advance of Remembrance Sunday, with the Royal British Legion displaying poppies through the High Street as a poignant reminder.”

St John’s will hold a Remembrance service on Sunday November 10 at 9.30am, to which all are welcome.

£4k Remembrance security bill

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dispersing. The use of HMV barriers was prompted when Bath & North East Somerset Council approached the town council and advised it to contact a police counter-terrorism officer, who then gave the new security advice.

This has left the town council with a new bill of £4,000 for using the barriers for the Remembrance parade, and one of £5,000 for using them at Keynsham Winter Festival on Saturday November 30.

Hal MacFie, chair of the town council, stressed that the new security measures and their high cost would not “undermine” the parade.

He said: “We have a budget at KTC that covers the costs and we have been through the plans in detail with the staff and are confident that, with the portable nature of these barriers, we can keep the main body of participants protected from a vehicle attack.”

But the measures have still

left the town council with an unexpectedly high bill this year, which will be paid using its events reserve fund.

Town councillors resolved at a meeting in September that “BANES officers are notified that we have followed advice and have incurred this at an extortionate cost, which is made worse by B&NES Council’s increased event fees and additional costs for parking suspensions etc. that have never been charged before.”

Councillor MacFie said: “We are very disturbed by these expenses.”

But he added that he hoped that, as use of HMV barriers became more widespread throughout the country for such public events, the cost of hiring them would become “more reasonable.”

Meanwhile, Alan Hale, an independent ward councillor for Keynsham, has criticised B&NES Council for its role in “springing” the new security advice on the town council at short notice.

He said: “This parade has been held, presumably since very shortly after the end of hostilities in World War 2, with no risk or threat ever made to it.

“The district council should be supporting the communities marking the Remembrance, not referring them to a profitmaking company via the terrorism officer who had not been proactive, bearing in mind this happens every November throughout the country.”

Councillor Hale also criticised B&NES Council for spending £10 million on antiterrorism bollards in Bath but giving no funding to “the town councils within B&NES so that they can more readily honour those who gave their lives for this country and our freedom.”

The Voice approached B&NES Council for comment but received no reply before going to press.

l More details and timings of the Keynsham parade can be found on the ‘Remembrance Day 2024’ panel on Page 25.

Care

Man guilty of disorder jailed for 20 months

A KEYNSHAM man has been jailed for his involvement in August’s disorder in Bristol.

Kieran Leach, 21, was sentenced to 20 months in prison at Bristol Crown Court on October 7.

Also sentenced were Benjamin Tavener, 35, of Charfield, and a 16-year-old boy who cannot be named because of his age.

All three had earlier pleaded guilty to violent disorder.

Tavener had also admitted a charge of animal cruelty while Leach also admitted assault.

Footage from Saturday

August 3 showed Tavener throwing an object during the disorder in Castle Park and he was also seen throwing a punch at a police horse. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

Leach was seen acting aggressively towards police officers and members of the public, with footage showing him assaulting a cyclist and also being part of the group throwing punches outside the Mercure Hotel.

The 16-year-old was handed a nine-month intensive referral order at Bristol Youth Court.

Residents’ pumpkin treat

AVON Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park donated all the pumpkins needed to make Halloween special for Kingfisher Lodge nursing home in Saltford.

Residents and staff also enjoyed exclusive early access to drive their minibus around the pumpkin patch to see all the displays and pick out their own pumpkins.

They then took them back home to create a pumpkin patch in their sensory garden for everyone to enjoy. One resident said how beautiful all the different coloured pumpkins were.

On Halloween, Kingfisher Lodge was due to open its doors for local children to come and carve the pumpkins that were donated.

Keynsham Film Works

Your local film society, showing films on the first Thursday of each month, welcomes new members and guests.

Doors open at 7.10 pm for a 7.45 pm start at The Space, (above Keynsham Library). There is a bar.

Membership costs £30 per year (10 films from September to June), or you can just turn up on the night for £5.

Our next screening on 7th November will be: One Fine Morning “A sensitive, beautiful, emotionally rich film”.

Please see our website for future films and further details. https://keynshamfilmworks.co.uk

Police footage of Kieran Leach during the disorder in Bristol

The sorry state of the flag in February

The flag vanishes ... ... and now it is back

Union flag flies high again

THE Union Flag is flying proudly once more over Club 22 in Keynsham High Street.

Back in February this year, Voice reader Elspeth Rolls alerted us to the sorry state of the flag at the time.

She wrote: “May I through the Keynsham Voice ask why Club 22 in the High Street is still flying a ragged Union Flag at half-mast and attached

only by one corner? It has been like that for months and gives a very poor impression.”

The Voice contacted Club 22 to ask if any action would be taken but received no response.

Then the flag was removed altogether and not replaced for months – until recently. Now the Union Flag has been fully hoisted again over the club.

Photo group is snap happy

A LOCAL photography group has been given national exposure after being featured in the renowned magazine Amateur Photographer.

Keynsham Snap and Stroll is the focus of a four-page spread in the issue dated October 15.

Group member Adrian Wyatt contacted the magazine because it runs the occasional feature on camera clubs and he was thrilled when the publication said it was interested.

Snap and Stroll arose from an online group that was created during the Covid lockdown and, Adrian explained, “it is never the quality of the photo that matters to us but the time we

Woman injured in cycle lane

ANOTHER shopper has been injured falling in the cycle lane in Keynsham High Street.

An ambulance was called to tend to the injured woman on Saturday October 26.

More than 100 pedestrians have been hurt tripping or falling in the cycle lane since it was installed in 2022 as part of the High Street refurbishment.

Despite this, Bath & North East Somerset Council has said it proposes to make no more changes to the lane, which has been repainted red and had a solid white line along its edge changed to a dashed line to improved visibility.

Keynsham ward councillor Alan Hale, who has been fighting for action over the cycle lane, said: “This travesty goes on, with continuing casualties since it opened.

“I cannot believe that the B&NES administration has washed its hands of this problem.”

have supporting each other as we take them.”

Members share photographic tips while wandering around, which they find is a great way to switch off, relax and make new friends while looking more carefully at the world around them.

The Amateur Photography article covers Snap and Stroll’s origins, what it offers and its goal moving forward.

Adrian added: “The group are seriously chuffed by the article, not least because being expert photographers is not the main focus.

“But to see the story and up to 11 images

printed is such a huge confidence boost, not least to those for whom confidence or self-worth is an issue, as it was for me when setting it up.”

Snap and Stroll recently held its first public exhibition, called ‘Eclectic Images’, at Bath Artist Studio.

It describes itself as a small, inclusive group of like-minded people of all ages and abilities who meet weekly, usually in Keynsham but sometimes in other interesting places.

For more information about it, contact Adrian Wyatt by calling 07976 362615 or emailing ade.wyatt@gmail.com

Warning on housing targets

BATH and North East Somerset Council has urged the government not to force “unforgiveable” developments on the area by doubling its housing targets.

Under the Conservatives, the council had been told it needed to build 717 homes a year over the next 20 years, but now Labour has more than doubled the target to 1,466 homes a year.

Council leader Kevin Guy has written to deputy prime minister Angela Rayner warning that wider reform is needed, not just higher targets.

He told her the council welcomed the government’s commitment to tackling the housing crisis but added: “Proposals with crude targets that potentially facilitate unplanned development would be unforgivable.”

Mr Guy said key issues that needed to be addressed first, including more funding for affordable homes and investment in necessary infrastructure such as transport, utilities, flood defences, health and educational facilities.

He added: “We are also

concerned about wider planning reforms. Here in B&NES we currently have nearly 2,100 homes with planning permission that are stalled. Unlocking delivery of them would require radical reforms.”

Bath’s “unique situation” was set out by Matt McCabe, cabinet member for built environment, housing, and sustainable development, at a cabinet meeting on September 12.

He said: “The problem is that we cannot expand the city of Bath. This is not a greenbelt problem, nor is it necessarily a national landscapes problem, it is a World Heritage listing rule. Because we have this mapped green setting for the city and we cannot expand into it without harming the World Heritage listing.”

He said brownfield sites in Bath could deliver about 5,000 homes over the next 20 years, but this number could not change just because the government had doubled the area’s target. As a result, most new housing would have to be built across North East Somerset.

Mr McCabe said: “If the

government’s new proposals become policy, we would need North East Somerset to take almost 11,000 more homes.

Keynsham is currently our largest town at 8,500, Midsomer Norton, Westfield, and Radstock is 9,500.

“That’s not just a new town. That would be the biggest town in North East Somerset.”

The council had been “well underway” on preparing its new local plan, setting out where those 717 homes each year should go for the next 20 years, but at the meeting, the council cabinet voted to reset the plan to allow for twice that number.

Under local plan proposals before the government’s announcement, potential sites identified for new homes included north Keynsham (1,500 homes), Hicks Gates (850), south-east Keynsham (350), west Keynsham (100-300), east of Avon Mill Lane (160) and central Keynsham (40-100).

They also include South Saltford (800 homes) and west Saltford (500 homes).

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Members of Keynsham Snap and Stroll, above, are featured in a recent edition of Amateur Photographer magazine

KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

How Keynsham mules helped fight the war

WE have covered this topic before, but the story of the Keynsham mules is always interesting, and a little more knowledge has come to light in the last few years.

Along the River Chew, upstream of Albert Mill and Steel Mills, the sides of the valley are fairly steep with good grazing. Today there are sometimes just a few cattle out to pasture. But back in 1916, in the midst of the First World War, the scene was very different. There were animals grazing, but they were not cattle: they were mules –hundreds of them.

Both horses and mules played a huge part in Army operations, at a time when mechanised transport was only just beginning.

Many British animals were requisitioned but these were mainly horses; mules were not widely owned in Britain. So, the Army’s Remount Service bought hundreds of thousands of them from abroad, mainly from North America but some from South America and Spain.

They were first sent to a Remount Centre. One of the four principal sites was Shirehampton. This was a large concern employing about 1,400 staff and at its peak handling 7,000 animals at a time.

The area available for pasture was insufficient, however, and 12 military farm depots for mules were set up on farms across Somerset. It is believed Keynsham was one of these, centred on Conygre Farm, although we have not found any official documentation referring to it.

After their voyage across the Atlantic to Avonmouth, many of the mules were in poor condition. At the farm depots they could feed,

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rest and recuperate; there was also some training. Locally, they were brought by train to Keynsham station; the late Mary Fairclough recalled as a child seeing them being driven from the goods yard. From Bath Hill they went down by

the New Inn through what is now the park, crossed the river to Dapps Hill and past the then workhouse to Conygre Farm. The animals then spent several weeks grazing, to restore them to good condition before being taken back to the

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The only known photo of mules in Keynsham, sent as a postcard by a soldier in the Black Watch

station to travel on to France and the horrors of the Western front.

Training the mules to work together and the soldiers how to handle them was probably a challenge – they could not be treated in the same way as horses.

In the town, the mules left a lasting impression, and one man described the fields as being so thick with animals that you couldn’t see a blade of grass.

Such accounts of the crowded fields are borne out by the evident need for further land. In Saltford, the triangle of land, about 19.5 acres, bounded by Norman Road, Beech Road, and the main BathBristol road was then a field. This was also used as an enclosure for grazing a large number of mules.

Apart from perhaps a few U-shaped horseshoes, we now have only second-hand memories to remind us of this small contribution that Keynsham made to the Great War.

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Man’s 10-year jail term for child sex offences

A KEYNSHAM man has been jailed for ten years for sexually abusing and abducting a child.

Kyeran Taylor, aged 39, committed the sexual offences against a teenage girl between September 2021 and April 2022, culminating in him taking the victim in his lorry to London.

He admitted two counts of sexual assault, six counts of sexual activity with a child, one count of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, one count of child abduction, and one count of sexual communication with a child.

He was found guilty of two further counts of sexual activity with a child following a trial at Bristol Crown Court.

In a separate case, Taylor admitted causing serious injury by dangerous driving after he caused a head-on collision on the B3130 at Chew Magna, in which

the driver of another car, a woman in her sixties, suffered serious injuries. He was under the influence of cocaine at the time.

Taylor was sentenced for all the offences at Bristol Crown Court on September 27. In addition to the prison sentence, he was given a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) as well as a restraining order.

Investigating officer DC Louise Pizey said: “Kyeran Taylor’s grooming, manipulative and sexual behaviour saw him committing a series of serious sexual offences. He’s damaged the victim’s childhood and caused a far-reaching ripple effect. I want to thank everyone who assisted with this investigation, and I hope those affected by Taylor’s crimes feel some sense of relief now he’s been sentenced to a significant prison term.”

15km of roads resurfaced

A TOTAL of 25 highway resurfacing schemes – including Charlton Road and St Ladoc Road in Keynsham – have been completed by Bath and North East Somerset Council as its wraps up its annual resurfacing programme for another year.

Almost 15km of highway was treated across the district between March and September, covering an area equivalent in size to 395 tennis courts.

The council’s highways team has also repaired 5,149 potholes so far this year – averaging 19 repairs a day.

The largest scheme in the

programme was Charlton Road in Keynsham, where more than 15,000 square metres of highway was resurfaced.

Working with VolkerHighways and other contractors, the council completed all its resurfacing schemes between March and September, alongside programmes of highway patching, surface dressing and footway repairs.

Winter weather makes it more difficult to resurface highways, so the council carries out most of the work in warmer, drier months.

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St Ladoc Road in Keynsham was one of the roads resurfaced in B&NES

Dan’s climate stance reassures MP Watch

THE campaign group formerly known as MoggWatch says it has been reassured by new MP Dan Norris’s attitude to environmental issues.

The group – now known as MP Watch North East Somerset & Hanham – says it aims to be a “critical friend” to the Labour MP, who ousted Jacob ReesMogg at the General Election.

The group campaigned during the election to persuade people to vote tactically against Sir Jacob, who it regarded as a ‘climate action delayer’.

It believes its actionsincluding leaflets, trailer banners and song-and-dance performances at Keynsham Farmers Market and Chew Valley Lake – were successful in helping to unseat the Tory MP.

Representatives of the group have now met Mr Norris to explore and understand his attitude on key issues.

Speaking after the meeting, MP Watch spokesman David Leverton said: “We were delighted that our MP was able to

meet with us to discuss some of the many issues of concern.

“We were reassured by his attitude on the environment. As Dan stated clearly, ‘we are facing a climate emergency’ and described it as central to his approach to his work.”

Specific environmental issues discussed included the expansion of Bristol Airport, which both Mr Norris and MP Watch oppose, and it was agreed that a national policy on airport

capacity, as recommended by the government’s own Climate Change Committee, is required.

MP Watch points out that Mr Norris is already on record (BBC Any Questions, August 9) as being critical of heavier prison sentences meted out to environmental campaigners compared to lighter penalties given to those convicted of violent disorder during the recent riots. He felt that this situation needed to be reviewed.

The group has also highlighted Mr Norris’s stated desire to re-instil integrity and honesty into politics.

David Leverton said that, since integrity in politics is also a central plank of MP Watch’s national remit, “we shall be monitoring him closely on this.”

In a message to constituents who had contacted him, Mr Norris apologised for the delay in responding promptly in some cases. He said that finding the right people to create a highquality and effective office staff, when many candidates are tied to three months’ notice periods to quit their previous posts, has taken both time and effort. He said the team is now complete and is working through the backlog.

Mr Norris has also asked MP Watch to take the lead in coordinating local environmental groups’ meetings and interacting with him as MP.

More information about MP Watch can be found at https:// www.mpwatch.org/

Dan Norris meeting members of the MP Watch team as part of the Climate Coalition Common Ground campaign on climate and nature

Gritting team helps to spread road safety message

PUPILS at Saltford C of E School were given a close-up look at one of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s road gritting lorries as part of a road safety day.

The council teamed up with its contractor, VolkerHighways, to give each class an opportunity to see the gritter.

The council operates nine gritting lorries from its Clutton depot and Keynsham Recycling Centre. Pupils were shown how the gritter works, taught how spreading road salt makes roads safer, and were given safety tips such as like which vehicle lights to look out for and how to avoid vehicle blind spots.

Plan to turn offices into flats approved

A VACANT office building in Keynsham can be turned into flats, planners have ruled.

Redwood House at 65 Bristol Road will be converted into nine two-bed apartments, with communal car parking and bin and cycle storage.

Keynsham Town Council had objected to the plans, stating: “The proposed design is not in keeping this locality and would constitute a loss of employment opportunities in the town when there is a need for office space in the town.”

But a Bath & North East Somerset Council planning officer said: “Given that the site is not located in the central area, enterprise zone, or a town centre, it cannot be concluded that the proposals would result in a significant loss to strategically important office accommodation.”

It was pointed out that a previous scheme for seven flats had been approved and that the building had been vacant since July 2022.

One comment from the public raised highways concerns.

The planning officer said: “The proposals are unlikely to have a significant impact on the surrounding highway, and

existing parking restrictions are in place on the Bristol Road where needed. The site has previously been used as an office, and there are no changes to the site access, therefore, visibility and site access is considered appropriate.”

The officer’s recommendation to approve the scheme was supported by the chair and vice chair of B&NES planning committee, Ian Halsall and Lucy Hodge.

The plan to extend and convert the building were submitted on behalf of the applicant by 3Sixty Real Estate.

The proposals include a two-storey extension on one side and a single-storey extension on the other. The property was originally built as a detached house before being converted to office use.

Rehearsing a scene from Blithe Spirit are Andy Busby (Dr Bradman), Jo Randall (Mrs Bradman) and Sally Warhurst (Ruth Condomine), of Saltford Drama Club

Conjuring up a Coward classic

SALTFORD Drama Club has conjured up a Noel Coward classic for its next production.

Blithe Spirit will be staged at Saltford Hall on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, November 21-24, starting at 7.30pm.

Coward’s play is about Charles Condomine, a writer who is planning a novel about a homicidal spiritualist and wants to observe a supposed psychic during a séance.

Despite the seance initially appearing to be a failure, it soon becomes clear that all is not well.

Condomine’s life becomes a shambles and, despite his efforts to correct matters, things turn from bad to worse.

The production is directed by Jane Busby, who also directed the successful Ladies Day last autumn and the murder mystery Who Killed the Ship’s Captain? - performed for the Saltford Festival in June.

The cast features Mike Stevens as Charles Condomine, Sally Warhurst (Ruth Condomine), Andy Busby (Dr Bradman), Jo Randall (Mrs Bradman), Rebekah Ford (Elvira), Mair Smith (Madame Arcati) and Cheralyn Dark (Edith).

Tickets priced £14 each are available from www.tickettailor. com/events/scaevents or Saltford Post Office and Library.

Best foot forward for festival walkers

BECAUSE of a forecast of rain and storms for the weekend of the Keynsham Walkers are Welcome Festival, the numbers attending were greatly reduced. However, the forecast was proved wrong, with the first three walks going ahead.

The first, on the Friday evening, was the history walk, and we were lucky to have Richard Dyson to lead. From the start at St John‘s Church, we made our way down to the park bandstand, where the woad and Flanders House were described.

The history of Bricktown was then mentioned, before we moved on to Dapps Hill and the floods of 1968. Wellsway was next, where Conygre, the mules and Second World War depot were pointed out. On the return, Steel Mills, the Pynes, and the Drill Hall were discussed. The walk finished as dusk was descending.

With no sign of rain on Saturday morning, the longest walk of the festival - to Bath Soft Cheese factory and café at Kelston - got under way, with Dawn Drury leading.

Our original circular planned walk from Keynsham to Kelston Round Hill and back was risk-assessed and pending stormy weather for the afternoon forced us to shorten the planned route.

But we were lucky with the weather, as we managed to complete our shortened linear

Walkers who made the trip to Bath Soft Cheese factory and café at Kelston – this was part of the Keynsham Walkers are Welcome Festival, which also included a walk supporting the BBC Children in Need Countryfile Ramble

KEYNSHAM WALKERS ARE WELCOME

despite the forecast

walk of over 21,000 steps (8.5 miles) without getting caught in any showers.

Leaving Bath Hill car park, we headed towards the Lock Keeper and then went off road following the River Avon footpath to Saltford and the Bristol-to-Bath railway path.

Our walking group of nine then walked about a mile along the path towards Bath. At the point on the path, not far from the Bird in Hand, where a bridge takes us to the other side of the river, we descended quite a steep path to join the track that would take us up to Bath Soft Cheese factory and café.

A welcome rest here allowed us to enjoy some light refreshments, and some walkers bought a selection of the cheeses on offer in the shop. Having regained our energy, the group retraced their steps back to Keynsham.

The dry weather continued for the shorter Saturday afternoon walk. A small but enthusiastic group, led by Milla Kenny, set out towards Chewton Keynsham via Dapps Hill. We stopped at Albert Mill to admire the wonderful setting of the development of the old mill.

The walk continued across the fields to Chewton Keynsham, where there was still plenty to admire, from the Old Mill House, the lush greenery, the old manor house and

its beautiful grounds. Making our way back through the fields on the other side of the river; we arrived back in Keynsham, relaxed and content. Another wonderful walk in good company.

Unfortunately the forecasters were proved right with rain and storms that were predicted for the Sunday morning, so the walk supporting the BBC Children in Need Countryfile Ramble was postponed for two weeks. The weather was only slightly better when the walk took place on October 6. A collection was made for the charity before the race and £255 was raised.

Sadly, numbers were again down on previous years. Dave Vince gave the prewalk risk assessment before we set off for Hanham.

We set off at a leisurely pace, through the Memorial Park and along the River Avon to Londonderry Wharf. We then climbed uphill, passing Hanham Woods and Hanham Court.

The cattle in the fields we passed through were unimpressed with our activties and ignored us. We then descended the lane to The Lock & Weir pub, where refreshments were taken. We then headed back to Keynsham along the River Avon, the path being surprisingly dry. Another successful walk.

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3. Going away? Remember to keep your heating on low (min 14ºC).

4. Check your outdoor tap. Fix any drips, and wrap it up or fit a tap jacket.

5. Protect exposed pipes. Wrap up pipes that are exposed to cold air (e.g. loft or garage) to stop them freezing/bursting.

Stepping out for freedom

A WALK to highlight the plight of humantrafficking victims has been a success.

The event in Bristol was hosted by Keynsham resident Cheryle Broom, who took part along with her husband Mike, daughter Grace and son Wes, as well as her mum Linda and dad David.

Cheryle said: “The walk went well. People were very supportive and engaged with us.

“We distributed over 300 pieces of literature, and we hit our target of raising £1,000. In fact, sponsorship is still coming in, which we are thrilled about.”

The Walk for Freedom, organised by the charity A21, took place in Bristol city centre on Saturday October 19. The aim was to help raise awareness, with the goal of eliminating slavery.

The 1.5-mile walk, which was marking its 10th anniversary this year, followed the city’s slave trail. Anyone who wishes to donate can do so at a21.org/bristol

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Support wildlife-friendly farming NEWS

AS the days shorten and temperatures drop, we have joined the crops in slowing down and have begun the process of reflecting on this year at our organic, community-led farm, just south of Bristol.

It has been a disappointing harvest for most crops this year, with winter squash the latest casualties. The plants struggled to cope during the unusually cold spring, made worse by an onslaught from the slugs who enjoyed the endless wet weather.

Across the country, England is heading for one of its worst harvests on record, largely due to the weather, and this is cause for alarm. Conventional farming systems are contributing to their own downfall, a major cause of climate change which is making farming ever harder. This year’s weather hasn’t only affected our food supply but our wildlife, too.

There have been nationwide declines reported in both bumblebee and butterfly

numbers this year, and our farm is no different. Whilst years of hard work have made our margins and hedgerows a haven for wildlife, and we have seen bumblebee numbers grow year after year, this year numbers fell off a cliff.

The August count found less than half the bumblebees that we had last year. Four of the 18 butterfly species that visited the farm last year haven’t been seen since.

These numbers reflect a worrying trend. A report from WWF this month suggests that global wildlife populations have plunged by an average of 73% in 50 years, with farming a major cause.

The Community Farm was not set up to complain about the mainstream farming system and its impact on wildlife or the climate. We are here to show that a better way of doing things is possible!

So even though our wildlife and our crops are being impacted by factors beyond our

fields, we will not stop growing organically and tending to our wildlife. If you share our belief that food should be good for our health, our community, local wildlife and the climate, get involved!

Shop with us and support wildlife-friendly farming with a home delivery of organic food. Or join more than 1,500 people who come to the farm each year for volunteering, events and courses to learn and contribute to a better food and farming system.

Get started at thecommunityfarm.co.uk

The weather has taken its toll on bumblebee and butterfly numbers this year

Keynsham family David Hales (first from left) Cheryle Broom (fifth from left), Linda Hale (ninth from left) Mike Broom (kneeling front) and Wesley Broom (far right) on the Walk for Freedom in Bristol. Cheryle’s daughter Grace took the photo

TALENTED young dancers from Heidi-Marie Dance Academy in Keynsham have made their dreams come true by performing at Disneyland, Paris.

In May, 35 students aged 10-14 successfully auditioned for the Disney Performing Arts Programme and were selected to showcase their skills on the Videopolis stage.

After months of rehearsals, they put on a 20-minute show that took audiences on a musical journey through the decades. From the 1950s to present day, the performance featured a variety of numbers, including a BSL-signed section from the new musical The Little Big Things.

Watched by hundreds of people, including 30 proud family members, the show was a resounding success.

The Disney Performing Arts team were so impressed by the students’ talent, costumes, choreography, and enthusiasm that they have invited the dance academy to perform again in the future.

Our Disney dream has come true

Members of the Heidi-Marie Dance Academy in Keynsham on stage at Disneyland, Paris

Celebration as footway over river opens

Saltford Parish Council chair Jon Godfrey, right, cuts the ribbon on the Saltford side of the new footway. Also pictured are parish councillor Andy Rice, B&NES ward councillors Alison Streatfield-James and Duncan Hounsell, and Wessex Water chief executive Colin Skellett

A NEW pedestrian route has opened linking Saltford and Bitton.

Villagers and Wessex Water staff crossed the footway over the River Avon for the first time to mark the completion of the company’s £9 million bridge project.

The pedestrian crossing is alongside the main access road across the river, which allows travel to and from Saltford’s water recycling centre via the A431 and has been used by site traffic since February.

The Mead Lane centre on the Saltford side of the river is being expanded as part of

a £35 million investment by Wessex Water to ensure it can keep pace with the treatment demands from an expanding population in Bath and surrounding areas. That project is expected to be complete by 2026.

Parish council members representing Saltford and Bitton, ward members and residents joined Wessex Water chief executive Colin Skellett and other staff for the first walk across the footway and to take part in an opening ceremony on each side.

Saltford Parish Council chair Jon Godfrey said: “We’ve been following with a lot of

Memories of bus boycott

CHILDREN from Castle Primary School in Keynsham learnt firsthand about a pivotal event for Black History Month.

Joyce Morris-Wisdom, one of the Bristol Bus Boycott activists, visited the school to talk about her part in the 1963 event, which paved the way for the Race Relations Act two years later.

She was just 14 when she became involved in the fourmonth- long boycott of the Bristol Omnibus Company.

Joyce is grandparent to one of the pupils at Castle Primary School and was invited to share

her story with all the children. She also donated a copy of a children’s book about the boycott.

Chris Cannings, head teacher at Castle Primary School, said: “It was fantastic to hear a firsthand account of local history from Joyce.

“Learning about equality and diversity is one of the key aims of our curriculum, and the visit has really contributed to the children’s understanding of the events in the 1960s and how it brought changes for good across the whole country.”

interest what Wessex Water have been doing here and we’re big supporters.

“They haven’t just built a bridge, but developed an ecologically sensitive area, which is in green belt so has to be done with great care.

“Walking along the river is an important amenity to the residents of Saltford, and the other factor is the reduction in heavy goods traffic through a conservation area and past listed buildings and very narrow streets, so that will be really significant for the residents of Saltford.”

Calean from Year 4 at Castle Primary School receives a children’s book about the Bristol Bus Boycott from Joyce Morris-Wisdom

Caring in the communitythere’s no place like home

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n BACK TO NATURE

November rewards the outdoor adventurer

NOVEMBER continues the trend of diminishing daylight and a more wintry feel to our weather, with strong winds blowing the remaining leaves from our trees. To many, the penultimate month of the year is not one that encourages outdoor adventures.

Though this sounds a bit bleak, November is a fascinating time of the year when walks through woodlands have much to reward us for making the effort, not least the joy of swishing through fallen leaves.

As we progress through the month, the landscape provides us with a starker but still beautiful landscape. The ground within these woodlands are often strewn with fungi and nuts like beech mast, acorns and chestnuts. Look out for birds and mammals collecting these to eat or store away as they prepare for hibernation.

Around 50 bird species have left our shores to head south to warmer climes, and who can blame them? But many more arrive from

further north for the winter to take advantage of more plentiful food.

While the hurly-burly of bird migration has mainly finished, this is a good time to see these new arrivals in the woodlands and also in our gardens looking for berries and other food.

Many birds like ivy berries, which have been described as an avian superfood high in fat. The best crops are produced by older, more mature plants, so please don’t cut back all your garden ivy plants.

Although a journey away, WWT Slimbridge is one of the best avian

winter service stations, and a trip is worthwhile to see the Bewick and Whooper swans along with a good number of geese species that have all arrived for the winter. Though lower in numbers with our milder winters, these elegant swans with their harmonious bugling are always a joy to see and hear.

We are lucky to live very close to the Chew Valley Lake and its numerous reed beds. These are home to a number of warblers in summer which by now have headed south. You might still be able to see the secretive Bearded Reedling popping up to

reveal its delightful moustache.

However, the reeds are now mainly home to two of our more secretive birds: the Water Rail and the Common Snipe, the true skulkers of the avian world.

The Water Rail makes its presence known with a most curious call known as sharming. It screams shrilly and vociferously and has been described as sounding like a piglet being killed. Though usually only appearing when the water is frozen over, one was seen in Keynsham Memorial Park earlier in the year.

The Snipe produces a croaking call. This is often followed by the small bird zigzagging up into the air and disappearing out of sight. So, wrap up warm as there is still much to see during November. The lack of leaves on trees, bushes and reeds can makes it easier to spot the wildlife. Take in the remaining autumnal colours that are still to be seen and listen out for the sounds of our winter wildlife. Pass quietly and stay alert and you could well be in for a treat.

Andrew Harrison

Common Snipe Photo: Hobbyfotowiki (Creative Commons)

Bewick Swan at Slimbridge Photo: Andrew Harrison

Listen out for the ‘sharming’ of the Water Rail Photo: Andrew Harrison

n KEYNSHAM SCOUTS

Bargains galore as our auction hits target

THANK you so much to everyone in the community for supporting Keynsham Scouts’ annual auction, book sale and toy sale.

We achieved our target of £6,000, which will greatly aid our scouting activities.

Hundreds of people packed the scout HQ, and the fun atmosphere and lively bidding created a wonderful day out.

This year we had an enlarged toy sale room, while the book room offered some real bargains. Refreshments - from bacon butties to home-made cakes –were served by our Explorer unit.

Next year’s date for your diaries is Saturday September 27.

l Our winter clay pigeon fundraising shoot at our Chelwood campsite will use our new activity barn facility for registration and refreshments.

The event, on Saturday and Sunday November 23 and 24, offers a perfect opportunity for groups or individuals to have some fun and view the changes.

Advance booking is required.

There are two sessions each day, starting at 10am and 1.30pm. Visit Clay Pigeon Shoot - 1st Keynsham Scouts or email claypigeon@1stkeynshamscouts. org.uk for details.

No experience required, all equipment provided. Depending on the weather, you might need wellies and waterproofs.

l Our K2 Beaver colony had a great evening learning about the

health benefits of eggs. As well as learning how to boil, fry and scramble them, they also learned how to identify different types of eggs.

Learning skills for life is what Scouting offers, and this typifies the type of programme that is delivered. If you are interested in volunteering for us, email scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org. uk - everyone has skills to share.

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The busy toy room at the auction. Right, learning about eggs. Below, the activity barn at Chelwood

GIRLGUIDING AVON VALLEY SOUTH

MEMBERS of Girlguiding across Keynsham and Saltford gathered on Sunday October 6 to celebrate and recognise those volunteers who go above and beyond for guiding within the local community.

Awards included long-service awards, certificates of thanks and county awards.

Girlguiding is thriving within Avon Valley South, with various Rainbow, Brownie, Guide and Ranger units across Keynsham and Saltford to accommodate girls of all ages. The volunteers work hard to offer a varied and fun programme, with girls learning new skills and building friendships for life.

The leadership teams are always looking for more support, from being on the maintenance committee of the local huts, to treasurers and unit helpers. For more information about how you can help, email avonvalleysouthdiv@gmail.com.

If you’re interested in your daughter joining Girlguiding, you can register via https://www. girlguiding.org.uk/information-forparents/register-a-child

Bethany Hibbert, Marjorie Godden, Sally Deft and Ali Deft

Sue Norton, Karen Caisley, Julia Bishop, Sue Bravery and Emma Brewer

KEYNSHAM MEMORIES

with Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society

THE Somerdale sign as many people fondly remember it.

Somerdale started production in 1925 to replace the several Fry’s factories in central Bristol, but in fact by then Cadbury already controlled the overall holding company. In 1935 Fry’s became a subsidiary of Cadbury’s but the Fry’s brand

continued for many years. In the early 1980s it was downgraded and was not used on new products after that.

The sign was removed in about 1982 and replaced by “Cadbury’s”. The illuminated letters were too large to be preserved but the apostrophe is believed to have survived.

n NEWS

Memories of victory wanted

KEYNSHAM residents are being asked to share memories of VE Day to help commemorate the 80th anniversary of the historic event next year.

The town council wants to gather memories and letters relating to the 1945 victory in Europe for an archive, so that future generations can better understand how local families were affected by the Second World War.

Perhaps you have letters from service men and women. Or do you remember evacuees in Keynsham or how Keynsham prepared for bombs and invasion?

If you have anything you would wish to share for the council’s VE 80 commemoration, no matter how big or small, please get in touch by either coming into the Keynsham Town Council offices (15-17 Temple Street) or by emailing deputytownclerk@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk

n SALTFORD SCOUTS

Sleepover Scouts reach out to the world

JUST before the end of term, Saltford Scouts had a sleepover night incorporating JOTI (Jamboree on the Internet), an event organised by the Scout Association to allow groups around the world to chat to each other online.

They talked to around 50 different countries, including Japan, Australia and America, about scouting in their part of the world, what they do and what their uniforms are like, plus lots of other interesting facts.

As not all scouts could be online at the same time, they did some other activities

including making origami bats and frogs, carving oranges to look like pumpkins, baking Australian crinkle cookies, and paracord woggle-making. They particularly enjoyed the cookies, especially eating them afterwards.

They then settled down to watch the movie Up along with a cup of hot chocolate. It is safe to say that there wasn’t much sleeping going on. After breakfast, their parents collected some very tired young people, who went home to catch up on some much-needed shut eye.

Like all scout groups, we are struggling to get volunteers to help run our sections. They are being run with just two or three leaders and some parents who come and help. Ideally, we would like to have at least six leaders per section.

To find out more about volunteering, please get in touch. Training and induction will be given. Future employers are often impressed with this on your CV, and you get to have fun, too.

Contact Tina Curtis – 07720 353701 or tina.curtis@wansdykescouts.org.uk

n NEWS FROM KEYNSHAM TOWN COUNCIL

Our Winter Festival is nearly here!

KEYNSHAM Town Council is excited to share all the details you need to make the Winter Festival an amazing day out.

Find out what’s happening and where so you can hit all the highlights. Keep an eye out for the event map and all the Festival details on our Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as in the free official Winter Festival programme, which you’ll be able to find in various shops from early November or at the November Farmer’s Market.

ON THE HIGH STREET

The Main Stage will be in front of the Methodist Church and will feature performances from Razzamataz Theatre School, Heidi Marie Dance Academy and StageCoach. A full programme of music will follow to keep the spirits

Saturday 30 November, 12pm-7pm

on the day of the event only and will lead participants around the Festival site to collect answers on a Tinsel Trail card.

Those who complete their card and put it into the Tinsel Trail collection box at Keynsham Leisure Centre have a chance of winning a brand-new laptop (regular retail £599). There will be a limited number of cards so if you want a chance to win, we suggest you collect a card early. Many thanks to Smart Computers for the generous donation of the laptop.

The Baptist Church will serve as one of the many indoor market stall locations around the Festival space.

Local art group ArtSpace will once again host their art exhibition on the day, and tea and coffee will

favourite shops and restaurants along the High Street and admire all the work that they’ve put into the Window Display Competition.

ON MARKET WALK

The Fun Fair is back and this year it will be on Market Walk. You can expect all your Fun Fair favourites including the Ferris Wheel and Helter Skelter. For those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, there will be the opportunity to try their luck hooking a duck or hitting the target. You will also be able to find several market stalls along the side of the library, including the very popular Keynsham Town Council tree giveaway.

INSIDE THE LIBRARY

PARTICIPATING SHOPS OPEN UNTIL 9PM

Here you’ll be able to find FREE face painting upstairs in the Library. We expect this to be a popular activity so please do expect a queue. A Punch and Judy show will take place at 1pm and 3pm so please do come and watch. Also new for 2024, we are hosting market stalls on the second floor of the Library in The Space.

Once again we will be inviting residents to collect one of our memorial baubles, decorate them to honour a lost loved one and hang them on the Community Christmas Tree, this year inside the Library. We hope this gives some of our residents an outlet to help keep their loved one’s memory alive during the festive season.

TEMPLE STREET

New for 2024 is a second music stage, ‘Choir Corner’, which will be tucked into Temple Court (the entrance is next to Savour Farm Shop) with musical entertainment including local youth acts KLOGs and ChoirJam. Check the programme or keep an eye on our social channels for exact timings.

Temple Street will also be filled with over 20 market stalls and food vendors, so come check them out, grab a bite to eat and head around to Riverside Square for some outdoor seating.

KEYNSHAM LEISURE CENTRE AND RIVERSIDE SQUARE

The Leisure Centre will be a hub of activity with craft workshops, hair braiding, photo booths and more. All normal activities will be running at the Leisure Centre on the day, including their soft play. You’ll also find the Keynsham Town Council

Jumper Swap location here – bring your previously loved Christmas jumper and swap it with one new to you.

Outside the Leisure Centre in Riverside Square, you’ll find our FREE Santa’s Grotto meet and greet as well as more market stalls and a seating area for eating. The MakeSpace, opposite the main entrance of the Leisure Centre, will once again provide an indoor snowy experience for those under 11s in our Snow Fun Zone.

ROAD CLOSURES & PARKING SUSPENSIONS

On Saturday 30th November from 9am to 9pm road closures will be in effect, including the whole of the one-way section of the High Street and Temple Street from Iceland to Carpenters Lane.

It is essential that the cars along the High Street and the parking bay by Market Walk & Sainsbury’s are removed by 9am on 30th November, or it could seriously impact the set-up of the event.

It’s also important to note that the Civic Centre Car Park is part of the Festival space and will be closed to the public during the event.

Please note, Charlton Road, Bath Hill and Rock Road will remain open. However, we ask all drivers to drive slowly and be aware of pedestrians.

FREE PARK & RIDE SERVICE

Available from 12pm to 7.40pm and run by Keynsham’s Dial-ARide, the shuttle service will run between the Waitrose car park and Ashton Way. The service will run every 20 minutes or you can find the exact timings in the free Winter Programme and on our social media channels and Keynsham Town Council website.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Many thanks go to all our Winter Festival sponsors, including I.J. McGill Transport Ltd, MG Estate Agents, Deli @ Keynsham, Dyenamix Hair & Beauty, Eveleighs Estate Agents, Meryton Place Care Home, Newton Farms, Olivia’s Boutique, Pie and Lattes Pilates Studio, Redfern Osteopaths, RJ Scaffolding Company, Savour Farmshop & Kitchen, Simply Carpets of Keynsham, Smart Computers, Sweets, Treat and Mantiques and WW Memorials. We greatly appreciate all your generous support of the Keynsham Winter Festival.

FWinter estival

Half of Keynsham businesses that responded to the survey said changes to the layout of the High Street have had a negative impact on footfall

Let us know which projects should benefit

THE Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a charge that is collected by Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council from developers on new development in Keynsham.

CIL contributes to the cost of providing the required infrastructure for the community. Keynsham Town Council receives a percentage of the total CIL funding available directly from B&NES.

CIL funding must be spent on projects that satisfy one of the criteria below:

a) the provision, improvement, replacement, operation or maintenance of infrastructure; or

b) anything else that is concerned with addressing the demands that development places on an area.

‘Infrastructure and Services’ are defined as:

l Physical infrastructure: e.g. highways, transport links, cycleways, energy supply, water, flood alleviation, waste management

l Social infrastructure: e.g. education, health, social care, emergency services, art and culture, sports halls, community halls, faith, crematoria

l Green infrastructure: e.g. parks, woodlands, play areas, public open space

Keynsham Town Council is now requesting suggestions from residents on small projects (up to £10k) that meet the CIL criteria.

Please email RFO@keynsham-tc.gov.uk to request the CIL form, putting CIL Project Suggestion in the title of your email. The deadline for submitting ideas is Tuesday 3rd December, 2024.

n

FROM KEYNSHAM TOWN COUNCIL

Remembrance day 2024

Sunday 10th November

Church Service and Remembrance Day Parade

This year’s Remembrance Day schedule is below:

9:30am Church Service at St John’s Church

10:30am After the Church Service, the Parade will proceed along the High Street via Bath Hill to the Memorial Gates 11am Remembrance Service at the Memorial Gates 11:20am Service concludes and the Parade will head up Bath Hill and back onto the High Street where it will disperse.

Please avoid parking on the High Street and along the Parade route.

ROAD CLOSURES will be in place from 9am to 11:30am on Sunday 10th November.

Roads affected will be High Street from outside Poundland to Station Road including Charlton Road up to the roundabout at Ashton Way, Bath Hill from its junction with Rock Road adjacent to SpecSavers to Avon Mill Lane. Once the Parade has dispersed all roads will be reopened.

All vehicle drivers to be aware that no vehicular movements can be made within the road closures during the actual Parade times.

BLACK SHEEP HARMONY Showtime for singers

BLACK Sheep Harmony, an award-winning local a-cappella female singing chorus, are hosting a show, Wild & Woolly 2, at the Somerdale Pavilion, Keynsham, on Friday November 8.

We sing a variety of music in four-part unaccompanied harmony, from classics to pop, appealing to all ages under the direction of our MD, Pete “Nooj” Nugent.

Alongside Black Sheep will be The Magnificent AKs, the hilarious men’s chorus from Ashton Keynes in deepest Wiltshire. Also joining us on stage are the gold medal quartet Mixed Blessings, who became the National Seniors Quartet champions this year and feature our very own chair, Noey McElwee.

We are also pleased to welcome our own fabulous SongSmiths, and newest in-house quartet, Fine Apples. Other delights include a bar, a raffle and an opportunity to buy the groups’ merchandise.

Join us for a fun-filled evening. Tickets are £10, or £8 for concessions.

Visit our website to find out more and to book tickets - www.blacksheepharmony.com

POETRY CORNER

Celebrate Life

November’s a month seeming dreary to some Disliking the cold, wishing next Spring to come. But why waste this precious month, it’s a gift, There’ll be many a time it will give one a lift.

For it’s always the time to celebrate life, Don’t wish it to pass, work your way through the strife. We can’t see the future, it’s not ours to say, Just be thankful and grateful, enjoy every day.

And wake up each morning a smile on your face, Away with the clouds let the sun take their place! Appreciate the blessings you’ll find on the way, Always trust in the Lord, keeping worries at bay.

Sylvia Kirby

Whilst reading Keynsham Voice (October 2024, Back to Nature article) ‘The sights, sounds and smells of autumn’, I was reminded of this poem I wrote in 1980 which was based upon comments made by my four-year-old daughter whilst we were out walking.

The Seasons of the Leaf

Autumn leaves fall to the ground

Shades of yellow gold and brown

As leaves fall they seem to dance

Trees stand still as if in a trance

The cold north wind begins to blow

Children walk home from school so slow

Leaves lie thick upon the ground

Are kicked and tossed and thrown around

In mid winter oh so cold

Leaves decay into leaf mould

Replenish the soil which lies at rest

So that in Spring it will give its best

The warmth of Spring brings forth leaves

Life returns to all the trees

Now leaf and tree together dance

The wonder of nature at a glance.

Derek Worrall, Lytes Cary Road

SNIPPETS

Scenes from Keynsham life

An unexpected encounter over the bridge, in Wales, led to a conversation about an eight-year-old boy spotted playing at Keynsham Snooker Club over 20 years ago, and predicted to become a master player.

Apparently, at that time, the club attracted the top snooker players from all over the world. This chance acquaintance, as a Catholic, used to visit the club regularly, stopping off en route to attend Mass at St Dunstan’s church.

Sadly, the club closed in 2015, but if you watched the Shanghai Masters recently, you might have seen Judd Trump’s 11-5 victory. There is a picture of him on Twitter, all those years ago, at Keynsham Snooker Club.

Isaac Glynn

PEN TO PAPER

All the Light of Tomorrow

A veil of black velvet and twinkling lights was observed by The Earth with unerring delight, and yet, as to their purpose, he couldn’t be sure, so he turned to The Moon and asked, “what are they for?”

The Moon glared at The Earth, unconcerned, unimpressed, and, at best, uninspired and unmoved by his quest, and so, showing her dark side, ignored every word by convincing herself that she couldn’t have heard.

So, The Earth rolled his eyes and decided he might leave the moon in the dark with her bark and her bite, and instead he resolved he would not be outdone when he turned himself round and consulted The Sun.

“I have seen a great veil, all littered with lights,” said The Earth, “it’s a truly spectacular sight, so I wonder if you can explain what they’re for, for such things I can barely begin to ignore.”

A short distance away, in the greatness of space, stood a Sun with a sumptuous smile on his face. “For so long I’ve debated, and waited for you to ask what the veil and little lights do.

Well, the veil, when it falls, will turn day into night, but what you perceive to be lights, isn’t right, because each, in its way, is much more like a door through which all of the light of tomorrow will pour.”

The Earth was enchanted by all he had heard, (any other ideas were quite clearly absurd), and he knew even truth has the means to deceive and so, what really matters, is what we believe.

Then The Sun gave a wink as he widened his grin to the wonderful sight of the light rushing in, and The Earth watched in awe as the veil gave way, and the light of tomorrow poured into today.

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

Judd Trump at Keynsham Snooker Club in 1997

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

AKevin Durrant Minister of Keynsham Baptist Church

‘

There has been a 69% decline in wildlife populations since 1970 and it is imperative that this trend is reversed.

BABYLONIAN king with the wonderful name of Nebuchadnezzar once had a dream. It began with the sight of an enormous tree loaded with fruit providing shelter and food for a variety of birds and animals.

But then he heard a voice commanding that the tree be chopped down and this worried him enough to search for an interpreter. The dream’s meaning is eventually explained by a Jewish exile called Daniel, who tells the king that he is the tree, and that he risked losing his throne if he failed to humbly recognise his God-given role to offer the same benign protection to his people that a tree provides for its creatures.

Nebuchadnezzar ignores the warning and a year later suffers some kind of mental breakdown. His embarrassed courtiers don’t know what to do with him, so they put him out into the fields with the cattle, where he remains for some time.

The Bible presents this as a divine punishment, but I wonder whether it is also an education. Suddenly, Nebuchadnezzar finds himself living

alongside beings who aren’t the least bit concerned with power and riches; who aren’t trying to impress, compete or exploit; who have no anxieties about the future, but live contentedly, in harmony with nature, taking one day at a time, glad for the air, water and food they are given.

I am writing this before the international biodiversity conference taking place in Colombia finishes on November 1, so I don’t know what agreements were reached. I hope that the governments of the 190 nations represented will have recognised the tree-like role they’ve been given to protect and care, not just for the humans they rule over but for all fellow creatures and their habitats.

There has been a 69% decline in wildlife populations since 1970 and it is imperative that this trend is reversed. Not only are we losing the rich variety these creatures add to our world, but we are denying ourselves the opportunity to learn from them, as Nebuchadnezzar did, a humble, simpler, and more harmonious way of living.

n NEWS ‘Remember a Life’ service

THE annual Remember a Life service will be held at the Keynsham Methodist Church Victoria Centre in the High Street on Sunday November 10, starting at 3pm.

This time of reflection will use hymns, songs, music, images, poems, reflections and quiet, with the opportunity to light candles in memory of loved ones.

Those attending can add names to a list of people who have died recently and will be remembered during the service.

Afterwards, there will be a chance to share in conversation and refreshments.

There is no need to tell the church you would like to attend – just come along.

For more information, contact Revd John Hayes by phoning 07341 628932 or emailing revjohn0713@ gmail.com

Our opportunities are as varied as the people who volunteer with us.

Teach our amazing residents bridge; lead a singalong; share your passion for arts and craft; run a woodworking group in our fully equipped workshop; be part of a gardening club, or simply enjoy walks with our residents around the amazing countryside at The Chocolate Quarter.

The Chocolate Quarter Trajectus Way, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2GL

Registered charity number: 202151

Whatever your interests, whatever you enjoy doing, we’re sure there will be an opportunity to suit you.

For an informal chat about volunteering, call 07875 406891 or email volunteering@stmonicatrust.org.uk

BOOKS OF THE MONTH

Adult Fiction

Displaced

Barbara Nadel

I downloaded this book from the Libraries Borrowbox

App. The author is Barbara Nadel, who also writes the Turkish Detective series that was dramatised on the BBC. It’s about two private investigators – Lee Arnold and Mumtaz Hakim – who run an agency from London’s East End.

Irving Levy is a diamond cutter who is terminally ill. He wants to leave his considerable property to family. Unmarried but determined to locate his long-lost sister, who disappeared in the 1960s at Barking Park Fair, he employs Hakim and Arnold to investigate her disappearance.

Their hunt takes them to Berlin – a city still recovering from the Berlin Wall coming down – and finally to the world of a travelling circus.

I whizzed through this book as Babara Nadel is an excellent writer and I enjoyed the characters of Arnold and Hakim. This is book six in the series, and I will definitely look out for more.

Cecily

Annie Garthwaite

The year is 1431, and Cecily Neville, at 16, has become the Duchess of York. She now stands with her husband Richard to watch the end of Joan of Arc in Rouen, France. But her husband has been branded a

traitor. So begins a modern take on historical fiction and the complicated period of English history – the Wars of the Roses. The story is about Cecily’s determination to secure her family’s future in the face of treachery and danger in the late medieval English court. Cecily will eventually see both her sons, Edward and Richard, become English kings, but this story is from her perspective.

If you are fans of Philippa Gregory and Hilary Mantel, then this is a perfect read. The author has written a great story, even though I had to return to the genealogies at the back of the book a couple of times.

Adult Non-Fiction

5 Ingredients: Mediterranean

Jamie Oliver

Who doesn’t love Jamie Oliver and his recipes using just five ingredients?

This cookery book celebrates all tastes and flavours

with Judith Thomas from Keynsham Library

from the Mediterranean and explains quick and easy recipes for everyday cooking. So, there is mussel risotto – tomatoes, rice, mussels, cheese and a little fennel; lamb meatballs – with lamb, roasted red peppers; roasted cauliflower; and finally a simple baked cheesecake. They are all presented in a clear and well-illustrated way and very mouthwatering.

Children’s Fiction

Aunt Amelia’s House

Rebecca Cobb

reviewed by Emilie Bioud, Keynsham Library assistant

Aunt Amelia is a crocodile (don’t ask me why she is). She has been asked to babysit her niece and nephew. But when they arrive, they find that she has prepared a list of chores that need doing around her house.

Each chore becomes an interesting fun game, and the children spend a fabulous day out. This very lovely book with colourful illustrations should bring a smile to the faces of people big or small.

Izzy the Inventor and the Unexpected Unicorn

Zanna Davidson

Izzy loves science and wants to be the greatest inventor ever! However, some of her experiments go a little bit wrong – flying eggs and explosions.

So, she is told to go and play with her sister. Her sister wants to play fairies, but Izzy says: “Fairies

aren’t real.” Well, read on and see what happens. There is a fairy godmother and a plump, cuddly unicorn. This means loads of adventures for Izzy, from flying to magical kingdoms, goblins and trolls. A great science-packed story with actual experiments you can do yourself, with or without a unicorn!

Library news

There’s always so much going on in all our libraries, and it’s all free. So drop in and see what’s on offer. Tuesday 9.30-10am and 10.3011am term time only, 0-5 years, for families with children, sing along at Baby Bounce and Rhyme.

Or get comfy whilst listening to stories at our ever-popular Storytime – Thursday at 10.30am at Keynsham Library – term time only and for 0-4 years. Come along, with a cushion and listen to some fantastic new stories.

For adults, we’ve got book clubs, writing classes, and much more throughout the year. Joining the library costs nothing, so pop in or visit www.librarieswest.org.uk to also access thousands of e-books, e-magazines, audiobooks, and a wealth of other resources.

Our ‘Virtual Library’ has loads going on, including the latest library news, competitions, book reviews and all our digital offers. Search ‘Bath and North East Somerset Libraries’ on social media or visit bathneslibraries.wordpress. com

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n KEYNSHAM IN BLOOM

Hard work earns awards

HELLO Keynsham gardeners - as l write this column, Storm Ashley is venting his rage on our town, so it’s battening down the hatches for me and hopefully you are safe and warm.

October has been a busy month for our group as we learned how our little town has done in the South West in Bloom competition. This year we achieved another Silver Gilt award, and lack of colour in our High Street was where we lost vital marks. We will learn from this and brighten up our containers with insect-friendly plants to increase biodiversity and colour.

The RHS South West in Bloom award ceremony was held on October 8 in the Bath Pavilion, with coffee, speakers, lunch and the award ceremony. This was preceded on October 7 by a formal evening at the Roman Baths for judges and dignitaries from the South West. Absolutely magical.

Our Keynsham in Bloom awards were held in The Space on Friday October 11 and the overall consensus was very positive. Thank you to everyone who entered our competition.

The final RHS awards ceremony this year was due to be held on Friday October 25 in The Makespace building, for the entries for the It’s Your Neighbourhood

competition. As you can see, we are busy bees with physical work on our projects and administrative jobs to carry out. If you would like to get involved, please contact me via email at catherinemarywoodman@ gmail.com or pop into Keynsham Town Council, give your details and l will contact you. We would love to hear from you.

We continue work on the Triangle flowerbed. Extra compost will be added shortly and the spring bulbs planting will be completed by our dedicated volunteers.

Keynsham Station was judged outstanding by South West in Bloom and was awarded a Gold by Stations in Bloom. An excellent achievement.

The Pocket Park still needs more biodiversity and we have agreed to start work on a wildlife pond this autumn and install butterfly nests. We have removed most of the geraniums now and planted more flowering shrubs, including salvias, that are loved by bees. These should look lovely next year.

Our containers are now finishing their summer flowering and will be planted with pansies, polyanthus and bulbs to make the dark days of winter more cheerful.

The storm has ended and my lunch is ready. Keep well, safe and keep gardening. Mary Woodman

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KIB’s station team collecting their gold award

Keynsham in Bloom volunteers and an unusual friend at Bath Pavilion RHS South West in Bloom award ceremony

Bristol window company up for national excellence award

Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, has been nominated for a prestigious industry award, and is the only one to represent the whole of the South West.

“The G-Awards celebrate the very best in the double glazing industry in the UK, and we are super excited to have been shortlisted in the Installer of the Year category,” The Window Hub’s managing director Danny Robb said. “We may only have been in business for four and a half years, but the judges have selected us alongside six other fantastic retail companies as representing the cream of the crop.”

Bristol-based window installation company, The Window Hub, was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny Robb, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.

From humble beginnings, The

Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.

Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.

“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.

“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”

And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it.

90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism,

friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.

As well as being open and honest, The Window Hub is keen to raise environmental awareness.

“All of our products will help homeowners reduce their energy usage because they are extremely energy efficient,” Danny said. “We also buy the majority of our products from companies in the South West.

“When we remove old windows and doors, everything is recycled, and we are currently planting a tree for every customer at a wildlife park near where we are based.”

The winners of G-Awards will be announced at a glittering gala dinner at the Park Lane Hotel in London on November 29.

For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk

Tribute to the young

TRIBUTE has been paid to youth town council KeynshamNow for its efforts to give young people a voice.

To mark the organisation’s 10th anniversary, Councillor Andy Wait spoke about its history and achievements at a meeting of Bath & North East Somerset Council.

He explained how its first meeting on September 24, 2014, was attended by about 15 young people met and four volunteer adult mentors, including Cllr Wait.

A chair, secretary and other officers were elected from the young people, and it was agreed that the group would make all the decisions, including choosing its name.

Cllr Wait said: “Our aim was to make sure that the voice of young people would be heard, especially by the decision-makers and opinion-formers. The young people learned the skills needed so that issues close to their hearts were known.”

Andy Wait with fellow councillor Alex Beaumont, formerly of KeynshamNow

Highlights include successfully campaigning for floodlights at the Keynsham Skateboard Park at a cost of £6,000, raising over £3,000 for local charities, and discussing with school leaders on how to improve their students’ mental health.

Cllr Wait added: “Most important of all, we now have young people who are local councillors in Keynsham and others who are active in the community because of KeynshamNow.”

CHANGING FOR THE BETTER Vital connection with nature

THE First of November marks the pagan festival of Samhain, which celebrates the end of summer and the start of the dark period of the year, where the harvest has been gathered and communities protect themselves from the privations of winter. It was thought to be a liminal moment where the veil between the living and the dead was at its thinnest.

Samhain has Celtic roots. Traditionally, it was held on the full moon, but when the Gregorian calendar was introduced, it was attributed to 31st October, renamed as All Hallows Eve, or Halloween. Even the trick-or-treat tradition harks back to Samhain, when people dressed up in disguise went door to door performing poetry or plays in exchange for food.

In the UK, Paganism is the fastestgrowing religion. Individual pagans might be Wiccan, Druid, Odinist or Shaman, but they share the belief that nature is sacred, and that the natural cycles of birth, growth and death have spiritual meaning.

Pre-industrialised societies relied on nature to survive. Today, 77% of the population live in urban areas, relying on industrial processes and systems.

We spend 90% of our days inside. We don’t hear the dawn chorus, the rush of running water, or the wind in the trees. Our circadian rhythms are all over the place.

People disconnected from nature are more likely to suffer from mental and physical health conditions, and communities in areas devoid of nature show higher levels of conflict and crime. A culture of disconnection encourages rampant consumerism that over-exploits nature and is far less likely to result in a societal shift towards a sustainable future.

I wonder if so many people in Britain are drawn to Paganism because it offers them a way to reconnect with nature. Paganism’s rituals celebrate the deep connections we have with the land and our past. It situates humans as part of a vast, interconnected natural system alongside animals, trees, stones, plants and everything else that is of the Earth.

It’s a compelling vision for the 21st century, where it’s becoming ever more evident that our disconnection from nature has brought us to the brink of destruction.

Elizabeth Willitts

n WHAT'S ON

Friday November 8

n ‘Lamplighter’s Marsh - Haven on the Avon’ wildlife talk. Keynsham Baptist Church Hall, BS31 1DS, 7:30pm. Avon Wildlife Trust members £3.50, non-members £4.50, to include refreshments served at 7.15pm. All welcome, no booking required.

Friday November 8

n ‘Wild & Woolly 2’ - concert at Somerdale Pavilion featuring Black Sheep Harmony & The Magnificent AKs. Tickets £10, concessions £8. More information and to book, visit www.blacksheepharmony.com.

Monday November 11

n Messy Church at Keynsham Methodist Church, Queens Road, BS31 2NN, from 3.30pm to 5.30pm, with our usual mix of craft activities, Bible Story, songs, food and fun. The theme for this month is ‘Messy Communion’. Please book your place (to help us with catering) with the church office on 0117 9149408 or bookings@ keynshammethodistchurch.co.uk. Looking forward to seeing you.

Saturday November 16

n Keynsham RBL Women’s Section Xmas Fair with craft tables,10am2pm, Royal British Legion Club, upstairs function room (stair access only), Charlton Road, Keynsham BS31 2JA. Refreshments availabletea/coffee/home-made soups with bread. Proceeds to the Women’s Section Benevolent Fund (charity no. 219279).

Saturday November 23

n Keynsham Orchestra concert, 4pm, Wellsway School’s Lansdown Hall, featuring Sibelius Symphony No 1 and Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet Overture. Tickets £10 on the door. Accompanied under-18s free.

Friday November 29

n Trio Paradis play a café concert called A December Evening at St

John’s Church Hall, Keynsham, at 1pm - café from 12.15pm (more details about the monthly concerts in the item above).

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays

n Tai Chi Shibashi 11am-12 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 Saltford Whist Club, Saltford Hall. Monday afternoons 1.30pm-4pm. Contact Malcolm 01225 872555.

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 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.

Mondays/Weds/Thursdays

n The Victoria Centre of the Methodist Church in Keynsham High Street is open from 10am to 12pm for coffee, biscuits and a chat. A great place to meet people, so pop in - you will be most welcome.

Mondays/Thursdays

n Yoga For Men

Monday 7-8pm, mixed ability, St John’s Church of England School, BS31 2NB

Thursday 7.30-8.30pm, mixed ability, Two Rivers School, Hygge Park, BS31 1GE Free 1st class, £8 thereafter. Loyalty card. Drop in and pay on the night. Cash or contactless. See www.yogadad.co.uk for further details.

Mondays/Fridays

n Butterflies Haven, charity for families of children with autism, sessions Mondays 7pm-8pm for ages 11-18 and Fridays 5.45pm6.45pm 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 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 Keynsham Orchestra rehearsals, Queen’s Road Methodist Church Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm. For more information, visit www. keynshamorchestra.org.uk/

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

n Chew Valley Choral Society rehearses in Bishop Sutton Village Hall, BS39 5XQ, 7.30pm- 9.30pm, from September to May. Friendly non-auditioned mixed-voice choir, with performances (often in St Johns, Keynsham) in November/ December and April/May. https:// www.chewvalleychoral.org.uk

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.

Wednesdays

n Keynsham’s popular Good Afternoon Community Choir from 2pm-4pm at Keynsham Methodist Church / Victoria Centre. NO auditions and NO charge to attend your first ‘meet us’ rehearsal. Everyone welcome www.goodafternoonchoir.org

n Keynsham Brass Band, Broadlands School, St Francis Road, Keynsham, 7.30pm to 9.30pm term time. Trombonists particularly needed for traditional brass band. Friendly, relaxed group who play at summer fetes in Keynsham Memorial Park and a few concerts. Please call Sarah Medley on 0117 4625626 or email sarah.medley1@btinternet.com, or see the Facebook page or webpage (Keynsham Brass Band).

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

n Indoor rowing exercise classes, Mon 7pm, Fri 5pm and Sun 10.15am, Saltford Rowing Centre, 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 Keynsham Girls’ Brigade for girls aged 4 to 15 meet during term time from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Key Centre, Charlton Road, Keynsham. Contact Linda on lindachrisp@hotmail.com

n Oldland Ukulele Club is a mixedability group who meet every Wednesday at 1.30pm at Oldland Common United Reformed Church (the blue church), High Street, Oldland Common, BS30 9QN. Places are £4 each. Call/text ‘Ukulele’ Ben on 07910 668258.

Wednesdays/Thursdays

n Walking Tennis coached sessions at Saltford Tennis Club. Wednesday 10am for 45 minutes for the active and Thursday 10.45am for People with Parkinson’s. Cost £5 per session. Racquets and balls provided and stay on for a cuppa and chat afterwards. if you are interested do come along to a session.

n WHAT'S ON KEYNSHAM MENCAP

Thursdays

n Midweek worship at the Keynsham Methodist Church coffee morning (Victoria Centre, BS31 2JA). Join us for a relaxed short service at 11am. Take a short break from your hectic day and enjoy the informal atmosphere. All welcome.

n ASP Poetry Circle, free entry, every third Thursday of each month, 11am-12pm, Keynsham Library, upstairs balcony, diagonally across from table in corner, by the window. Bring two or three poems, own or another poet’s, to share. https:// asppoetrycircle.wordpress.com/

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

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 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 - 07454 047536, www.corerehab-physio.co.uk

Fridays

n NEW Pilates Class

Fridays 10.30am

St Francis Church Hall, Warwick Rd, Keynsham. Mixed ability level, beginners welcome.

6 week block of classes £54. Trial class £10.

Book online or by contacting Kate 07454 047536 www.corerehab-physio.co.uk.

n Café Plus at Keynsham Methodist Church (Queens Road, BS31 2NN) during term time. Come and share breakfast, chat and a place to chill and relax, from 8.45 am.

Saturdays

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. 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.

Warm welcome at coffee club

SALTFORD Community Coffee Club looks forward again to welcoming all retired residents to the Saltford Hall on Tuesday November 19 at 2pm for tea, coffee and cake, which will be served along with plenty of chat.

To reserve your place, let the organisers know your dietary requirements, and if you need any help with transport, call 01225 632216 and leave a message for Coffee Club or email Fiona.bell@saltfordcommunity. org by November 15.

Football fun is our goal

THE Keynsham & District Mencap Society extends heartfelt thanks to all local business for their generous support. On October 31, the Bonzo Lounge was planning a Halloween family fun day, with proceeds benefiting K&DMS. A big thank-you to everyone involved.

l K&DMS fields two football teams in the Somerset FA Ability Counts League, which kicked off again in October. This league offers positive sporting experiences for young people and adults within the disability play pathway. Go Keynsham Mencap FC!

l The clubs and activities continue to provide fantastic social opportunities for their members. Last month’s highlights include Club 25 and Go Explore’s visit from Bristol Reptile Encounters, SENSations’ karaoke night, and Fitness Club’s Circuit Monday.

l As the holiday season approaches, K&DMS is excited

to host and take part in several festive events, including the Apex Glitz & Glam (November 16) and a Christmas evening at the Brassmill pub (December 2). They are also thrilled to be part of the Big Give Christmas Campaign following last year’s success. Once again, any donation made using the special online link between December 3 and 7 will be doubled.

On Sunday December 1, they will participate in the Saltford Santa Dash as one of this year’s beneficiaries. Everyone is encouraged to join K&DMS at this fun-filled day by signing up at saltfordsantadash.com. With options for a children’s race, a 5km run, a 5-mile race, and an accessible race, there is something for everyone.

To register in the accessible race or for more information about any events, please contact gia@ keynshammencap.org.uk.

Will takes the plunge

A FREEMASON took the plunge from the tower of St John’s Church to raise money for Keynsham Mencap.

Will Feay is a member of the Vale of Brislington Lodge that meets at the Masonic Hall in Keynsham.

He said: “My abseil was an exhilarating experience - I was terrified! But I kept in my mind what a great local charity I was raising money for.”

Will raised £561.25 from his JustGiving page. Then David Roberts, the Freemason lodge’s charity steward, raised a further £617 from a raffle, personal donations and match funding of £500 from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Somerset. The combined effort raised a total of making a total of £1,678.25.

The lodge will hold an open afternoon at the Masonic Hall on Saturday November 30, 1pm-5pm, to enable the public to learn about Freemasonry.

Keynham Mencap footballers have kicked off their new season

Keynsham East ignored again

HAVING read the article about the new bus service (K1) in the last edition (Voice, October), I had mixed feelings. Firstly I was pleased to see that WECA have woken up to the fact that a scheduled local service is the best option as opposed to the ill-conceived Westlink service, albeit for only an 18-month experimental period.

I was also pleased to see parts of Keynsham are now receiving a local bus service, especially those travelling to and from the Chocolate Quarter. They were victims of the cuts along with Keynsham East some years ago. Let’s hope this service is supported so it can outlast the experimental period.

However, I was saddened to see that once again East Keynsham has been ignored, as the new bus only serves Keynsham North and South. Those living in Keynsham East are taxpayers the same as the rest of the town and are losing out on community benefits.

The comments made in the article praise WECA and Dan Norris for funding a service to the community of Keynsham. Perhaps those living in East Keynsham are not part of that community.

Apparently a town council bus working party was set up to deal with the issues around providing a local bus service for Keynsham. Of note, this working party was made up solely of councillors from the North and South wards but none from Keynsham East.

Having read the minutes of this working party, there is no mention of Keynsham East other than a minor reference to the possibility of a future service once the housing development behind Minsmere Road gets under way.

That’s not now, and as another winter approaches, the elderly and vulnerable people of Keynsham East can look forward to having to put up with alternative but unsuitable and perhaps costly travel arrangements, or spend more time at home trying to heat their homes, maybe without the benefit of the winter fuel allowance.

parking spots. Now the Lib Dem councillors want to trap elderly and disabled people in Keynsham by moving the bus stops to the bypass.

meeting minutes was the total absence of any mention or concern that Keynsham East has been excluded - perhaps we are beyond the “outlying areas”.

I was given the opportunity to attend a public council meeting on October 15 where questions were raised about this service and an explanation given as to why Keynsham East had been excluded.

The new K1 route was decided on the basis of the bus survey results carried out earlier this year and that the route chosen best meets the needs of Keynsham residents.

It also transpired that the timescale for sorting this out was extremely limited and that the councillors involved were given little option but to proceed in order to meet WECA’s procedures and deadline.

There was nothing said at this meeting that has altered my view. I was also informed that any bus service resulting from the Minsmere Road development is likely to be at least two years away.

Dim view of the wasteful Lib Dems

I’M shocked to see the results of at least a month of St Ladoc Road in Keynsham being closed for road works.

I’m having to turn my headlights on full beam to be able to drive safely and see pedestrians. The problem is that full beam headlights dazzle pedestrians and can only be used when there is no traffic coming towards me.

The LED street lights are more suitable for domestic use and are stuck up on top of tall lamp posts, and they don’t illuminate anything as they are too high up for the weak beam to be of any use.

We have more efficient LEDs illuminating part of the footpath to our homes in St Annes Court.

I’m guessing that our wonderful Lib Dems are responsible for the choice of light that has been used. They seem to be experts at wasting council tax.

Richard Gasiorek Editor’s note: The Voice asked B&NES Council for a response but received no reply before going to press.

Why stick with this unpopular A4 plan?

I READ the article in the last edition (Voice, October) where the plans for the A4 were questioned. I totally support the views expressed by Councillor Duncan Hounsell about value for money, given the current need to control public spending wisely.

Factor in the views recorded by local residents that overwhelmingly object to the proposals made by WECA - I don’t know of any local resident who is supportive of the proposals for the A4.

Therefore the question remains: why is WECA continuing to waste time and finance on a project that is opposed by the electorate?

My suggestion is to write to your local MP, Dan Norris, and question him as to whether government funds should be spent in this manner.

I recall in an earlier article where a resident expressed a conflict as to what should happen next. The conflict, if any, rests with Dan Norris as he currently has vested interest in both WECA and, as our MP, the actions of the new Labour government, so perhaps a response from him would be appropriate.

Brian Withyman

Shocking lack of action on cycle lane

QUITE shocked to read (in the October issue of Keynsham Voice) that the controversial red cycle lane which dominates Keynsham High Street will not be having any changes to its design making it safer, considering the amount of people that have sadly been injured due to its optical illusion.

Mooncat Grenadier 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.

Looking at the K1 timetable and route, it seems quite possible to have provided a service that alternates between the whole of Keynsham, even if this meant reducing the service frequency. Finally, perhaps the most upsetting aspect of the article and

However, I remain optimistic that the town council will address this matter when it comes up for review in six months’ time, and it was agreed at this meeting that the working party will be replaced by a committee and that there would be councillors from Keynsham East on it.

Cynthia Withyman

They wasted millions on the High Street. I’ve only seen two cyclists use the cycle lane since it’s been opened. I’ve almost fallen a few times crossing the road.

Then there’s the money wasted and dangerous inconvenience on Temple Street, known as pop-up gardens. I’ve noticed the most dangerous one has been removed, but that still leaves two that take up enough space for two disabled

A recent news report highlighted a 90-year-old lady who had sustained horrendous injuries after falling over on it. With the new retail outlets opening and drawing more customers into Keynsham town, how many more victims could fall foul to this hazardous design?

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KEYNSHAM TOWN FC

Players are still walking tall 10 years on

KEYNSHAM Town continue to rebuild their squad after the loss of several players.

October was a bleak month with the only fruitful result being a 2-2 draw with Warminster. They have exited both the Les Philips (League) Cup and the Somerset Cup. Their last match was a close encounter with Shirehampton, when a single 95th-minute goal robbed them of a point.

However, new players have been recruited and the club is actively looking to find a new manager, all to enable the club to climb back up the Jewson Western League Division One league table.

They were due to face highflyers Bradford Town (home) and Wells City (away) next, then there is a succession of local derbies to look forward to - away at Longwell Green Sports on Saturday November 9, followed by Mendip Broadwalk at the AJN Stadium on November 16 and at Bitton on November 23.

The reserves lie in a comfortable mid-table position

in the Uhlsport Somerset County League Division One, but will be looking to climb into a promotion place when they face Nailsea and Tickenham Reserves at the AJN Stadium on November 9 and Saltford away on November 16.

The under-18 team continue their Western Counties Floodlit Youth league programme at the

AJN on Tuesday November 6 and also play Hengrove Athletic on November 19 and Oldland Abbotonians on November 26 at home.

Keynsham Town Ladies have had successes against local rivals Bristol Rovers, 4-1 in the FA plate and 1-0 in the league, plus a Women’s FA Cup win over AEK

Boco. They sit in fifth place in the Women’s National League, South West Division. They were due to face Bridgwater United on October 27 but only have one home game this month - on November 17 against Abingdon United.

Keynsham Walking Football Club celebrated its 10th anniversary in the AJN Stadium clubhouse on Friday October 11.

The club was formed on August 15, 2014, with members playing on tarmac in Keynsham Park. Seven sturdy players survived the conditions and are still with the club today. Six of the founder members (pictured) received commemorative medals, while a seventh founder member, Dave Young, received his medal the following week.

During the event, Martin Coles and Steve Nicholls were presented with trophies to recognise their work on the committee since the day it was formed and for all the other work they have done for the club. The whole event raised around £200 for good causes.

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Keynsham Walking Football Club founder members (left to right) Steve Collins, Steve Nicholls, Pete Ricketts, Steve Davis, Martin Coles and Dave Baldwin Photo: Laurence Spicer

FRY’S TENNIS CLUB

Kerry and Mark in final thriller

THE Fry’s Tennis Club annual club championships culminated in a thrilling final on September 21.

A particular shoutout goes to juniors Andrew Quinn and Patrick Davies, who played an epic 4.5-hour match in the first round of the singles, which Patrick eventually won.

It was great to see all the juniors performing well. On his debut in the tournament, Josh Davies pushed Dave Howell close in the singles and reached the doubles final. Isabelle Eke and Ted Conway also put on great performances.

Other notable performances included veteran Dave Howell rolling back the years to reach the singles semi-final before losing to Kerry Grace.

Louise Elcoate did well in her first

tournament, reaching the doubles semi-final.

The singles final saw defending champion Mark Long take on number 2 seed Kerry Grace. Kerry went up an early break in the first set, but Mark improved his serving before taking the set 6-4. On a baking hot day (despite the forecast) the second set turned physical with multiple long rallies. Mark just managed to edge more of the crucial points to secure a 6-4 6-3 win, his third title in a row.

Our doubles final unfortunately had to be postponed. However, that just meant more time to eat cake after the singles.

For anyone interested in junior membership or coaching at the club, contact Rich Conway at richardconway6@icloud.com or 07909988115. For adult membership, contact Tony Dicker at ard@tonydicker.co.uk

SALTFORD

GOLF CLUB

Dave takes the helm

SALTFORD Golf Club welcomed their new captain, Dave Boulton, and captain elect Christine Harris at the annual trust meeting.

Dave has been a member since 1998 and has been actively involved with the various sections during his membership.

His chosen charity will be Children’s Hospice South West. For more than 30 years the organisation has been caring for children and young people with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions by providing hospice care and professional family support. The local children’s hospice is at Charlton Farm, Wraxhall, North Somerset.

RED FALCONS YOUTH FOOTBALL

Comets off to a flying start

RED Falcons youth football club was founded eight years ago with eight children.

We now have 280 registered across 11 different age groups, in female and mixed teams. We currently run 16 teams plus a men’s team, all of which are based at Somerdale, Keynsham. At Red Falcons, we recently started a football tots, from two years old up to five years.

As part of our ever-growing club, we have a Wild Cats section, designed to introduce girls from five to 11 to football. Wild Cats is designed to be fun and help players grow and start their female football journey.

At Red Falcons, we are always trying to improve and have recently started a Comets section, a pan-disability group from five to 11. Training is designed to be fun with the purpose of enjoying football in a stress-free environment. We also try to provide one hour of respite care for the parents and guardians. The Comets train indoors at Broadlands School from 6pm-7pm every Thursday.

Comments from parents/ guardian include:

“Rory absolutely loves attending Comet sessions, as I can get him off the computer and be active. Not only does Rory have a brilliant time and learns new skills - directly as well as discreet skills, such as a taking turn and waiting - the sessions have helped Rory to begin to develop social skills and trust around other children. Rory is respected at the sessions and able to be his authentic self.”

“Football with Comets is the highlight of Fletcher’s week. He has always found groups and clubs very difficult and is very often misunderstood, as his over-energetic behaviour can be overwhelming for some. He is passionate about football, and being in Comets allows him to be entirely himself with no judgement.

“Exercise is massively important for his cystic fibrosis to help keep him fit and well, so it’s always challenging when sports clubs have not been a success for him. Fletcher really connects with Comets and loves to be around like-minded friends, who celebrate his achievements and also help to take care of his cuddly rabbit who attends with him.”

Kerry Grace (left) and Mark Long

SALTFORD LAWN TENNIS CLUB

Tournament is fitting tribute to Russell

ECLECTIC mix of players took part in Saltford Lawn Tennis

Russ was a well-loved, charismatic and talented young man who was sadly lost to suicide in March 2013. This tournament gives Russ’s family and friends the opportunity to remember him by taking part in a sport he loved and excelled at.

The tournament also endeavours to raise awareness about the devasting impact of suicide. The competition is made up of current and former members of Saltford LTC and Russell’s friends.

It was a ‘compass draw’ format, and probably only the organiser really understood how it worked. There were two stages to the tournament, the first to establish seedings and the second being the ‘knockout’ stage.

The strong pairing of John Moruzzi and Joe Bellamy were the ones to beat after being ranked number 1 seeds - but anything can happen in the knockout stages.

Neil Willey and Andy Flower were amongst the lower-ranked pairings but soon earned the title of “giant killers” as they progressed to the final, beating the number 3 seeds (Tom Griffith and Rhys Messenger) and the highly favoured

number 1 seeds. In the final, Neil and Andy F encountered the suave and sophisticated pairing of Guy Muggleton and Andy Grant (number 2 seeds). Guy and Andy G raced out to an 8-4 lead in the championship tie-break but Neil and Andy F played some inspired tennis to get the score back to 8 all.

But the number 2 seeds proved to be a step too far for them and they lost the final 10-8.

After an entertaining final, Guy and Andy G were crowned winners of the tournament.

The spectators were able to keep their energy levels up by indulging in a vast array of goodies, including the club chair’s infamous

Talented juniors are ones to watch

SALTFORD Lawn Tennis Club held their annual junior singles final on October 5.

The junior finalists were aged from nine to 15. Sadly, Arthur, the youngest contestant, made the mature decision to retire from the round-robin stage of the competition after sustaining a hand injury. He impressed the spectators with his boundless energy and exceptional tennis skills.

The final was a competitive and hardfought contest between JJ, who only took up the sport of tennis in the summer, and Thomas, who has been runner-up in the last two finals.

Thomas’s experience of playing in finals held him in good stead as he took the first

set, producing some of his best tennis. In the second set, JJ took control of his nerves and produced some excellent winning shots. But Thomas just edged the second set 6-4 to be crowned Saltford Junior Singles Champion 2024.

Neil Willey, the men’s club captain, said: “I was very impressed at the attacking tennis the boys played, having the confidence to go for every shot and not play within themselves.”

The sportsmanship and tennis skills of both boys was excellent and they are certainly players to watch for the future.

l Pictured, contestants JJ, Arthur and Thomas.

It was a very entertaining day and the camaraderie shown between the players and spectators was truly remarkable.

The event so far has raised just over £600, which will be split between Suicide Prevention Bristol and Saltford LTC’s tennis inclusion projects.

Before David Simmons presented the trophy, Tom Warren paid a touching tribute to his good friend Russ. After the presentation, many took shelter in the sports bar (as Kath Wilson, who was in charge of organising the weather, had only ordered dry weather until 2pm) where members of the tennis club took advantage of their sports bar membership.

Although this was an uplifting event, the emotive topic of suicide and suicide prevention was and always will be addressed.

If you are suffering from suicidal thoughts, please talk to someone - they won’t judge you, they will only offer you help and support. Please remember they would rather know how you felt than be made to attend your funeral.

The National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK 0800 689 5652 is open 6pm to midnight every day.

AN

Club’s ‘Start the Conversation’ tournament in memory of Russell Simmons.

sausage rolls and some delicious cakes donated by The Little Coffee Shop.

Dave Simmons with tournament winners Andy Grant and Guy Muggleton

KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB

Jane and Paul take the title

THE season has drawn to a close for Keynsham Bowling Club and the last wood has been bowled on the green in Keynsham Park for 2024.

We finished on the last Sunday in September when 40 members enjoyed the dry but somewhat chilly weather and then retired to the clubhouse, joining other club members for a fish and chip supper.

Earlier in the month, two of our “younger” members, Jane Coles and Paul Matthews, took part in a novice pairs competition at West Backwell Bowling Club, where 27 other teams were involved. They won all of their games, involving a shot difference of plus-40. Our picture shows Jane and Paul with their newly won trophy – posing the question: whose mantelpiece will it adorn?

Many of our members – both ladies and gents – will keep their eye in and fitness levels up by bowling indoors during the close season, travelling to Bristol, Chippenham and Paulton to play. Our clubhouse will still be well used as members gather for the monthly coffee morning and social events.

FRY’S BOWLING CLUB

Glittering prizes - Fry’s Bowling Club members pick up their trophies at the annual presentation evening

Winners celebrate successful season

FRY’S Bowling Club brought the 2024 season to a close with their annual dinner and presentation evening, where this year’s trophies were handed out.

The week before, at the AGM, John Naish was elected as a life member of the club. John has been a member of Fry’s for over 15 years, joining along with other members after Knowle Park folded.

In external competitions,

BRISTOL BASEBALL CLUB Gold medal for Serpents

THE South West and Wales Serpents won the gold medal at the SWWBL Annual Women’s Baseball Tournament at Somerdale Pavilion in Keynsham.

The Serpents beat the French team, Hauts de France, 6-4 to claim gold in a thrilling final.

The French team took an early lead and were 3-2 up at the top of the fourth inning but the Serpents responded with four runs to take a six-three lead.

Bournemouth’s Olivia Burlinson, who won the Home Run Derby, got things moving with a single before she scored after Saskia Davies’s outfield hit drove her in.

Good base running from playermanager Artie Herbert allowed her to score before a single from Taunton’s Gemma O’Toole scored Davies.

Bristol’s Niamh Cogley Rock

scored from third with alert base running to round off the productive inning. Laura Hirai, fresh from her season with the Bristol Badgers, kept Hauts de France’s offense in check, striking out 12 French batters over her five innings pitched.

Saskia Davies, who plays for Cardiff, hit the only home run of the tournament, which featured over 50 women players from London and Berkshire as well as the South West & Wales and France.

The bronze medal match was won by London Mayhem, who were too strong for Belles Baseball, beating them 12-6.

Rhodri Theaker, chairman of hosts Bristol Baseball Club, said: “It was great to see players from across the UK and also the team from France competing hard for two days.”

Fry’s had a successful season, with Callum Gwinnell reaching the Bowls England Champion of Champions Somerset area final, missing out on reaching the allEngland round to Matt Hamilton of Ilminster.

In the City and County of Bristol Bowling Association Pairs, a combination of Nick Grenfell, Jonathan Day and Callum Gwinnell reached the final against the

defending champions from Olveston. Due to heavy rain before the game, the game is now set be played in 2025.

In late July, the club had the privilege of hosting the Bowls England Women’s Champion of Champions All England round of 32 match - between Sue Cooke, from Box BC, and Stef Branfield, the 2021 & 2023 Bowls England Singles Champion, England international and the eventual 2024 Champion of Champions winner, from Clevedon BC.

Back home, the first trophies handed out were for the triples day held in July. Taking the runnersup place were Jeff Budd, Geoff Kershaw and Steve Buck, with Mike Barling, Don Gourd and Nick Grenfell this year’s winners. In the delayed pairs final, the runnersup were Barry Smale and John Whatley, with Sally Morgan and Eric Jones taking the winners’ trophies. In the novices, Bob Eales faced Kevin Smith, with Kevin being the victor.

In September, Fry’s held their first finals day, with four finals and a semi-final to be played. The

final for the over 70s was played between Vernon Hopkins and defending champion Nick Grenfell. Nick took the title for the second year running after a tighter game than the scoreboard suggested.

The three major singles finals saw Stephen Day compete in all of them. After the two-wood semifinal, a familiar foe awaited to make it three years in a row that the final would be contested with perennial two-wood winner, Jonathan Day. A late surge in the last few ends saw the title change hands, as Stephen picked up the winner’s trophy with an end to spare.

In the morning, the handicap final saw the first of two matches between Nick Grenfell and Stephen Day. After a tight first half in the first-to-21-shots encounter, Stephen strung together successive ends to bring home the handicap title. With the threat of rain looming, the championship was again played between Nick and Stephen. The game went a similar way to the morning’s handicap, with Stephen pulling away to become the third player to achieve the club’s triple crown.

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