Keynsham Voice August 2024 by Emma Cooper

‘Unpopular’ bypass bus lane plans still in place

TRANSPORT chiefs are sticking with proposals for bus lanes on the Keynsham bypass despite “overwhelming” public opposition.

The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) has published its findings following its public consultation last summer.

Its proposals include 24-hour bus lanes on the A4 between Bath and Bristol and a reduced speed limit of 50mph.

WECA says the feedback received “has been taken on board” and, together with further technical analysis, has been used to make some initial design changes.

It adds: “These are not final, and nothing has been ruled in or out at this stage. The next phase of work will develop designs in greater detail, considering more of the feedback. Nothing is set in stone.”

WECA says that, overall, most residents in all areas other than Saltford support the project’s aim for better walking, wheeling and cycling networks.

Only the majority of Bristol residents support the aim of better public transport links through dedicated bus lanes. Despite this, Bristol residents were not n Turn to Page 3

KEYNSHAM

Staying sweet

The owner of a traditional Keynsham sweet shop is trying to find someone to take it over.

PAGE 5

Solar farm fears

Plans for two solar farms on green fields near Keynsham have drawn objections from residents.

PAGES 6 & 7

Bus diversion plea

More bus passengers have backed calls for the 39 service to make some of its journeys through Keynsham instead of along the bypass.

PAGE 9

Cashpoint refused

Plans for a 24-hour cashpoint next to Keynsham Mini Market in the High Street have been turned down.

PAGE 11

Dan’s two jobs

Dan Norris has confirmed he will “do both jobs” as newly elected Labour MP and Metro Mayor.

PAGE 13

Hair-raising entertainment thrilled the crowds at Keynsham Music Festival: See Page 28

Photo: Colin Rayner

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Local information

Council Connect

01225 39 40 41

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

Keynsham Citizens Advice Bureau 0844 848 7919

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk

General inquiries: 101 Emergency: 999

Complaints

Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk

Inquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999

NHS

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

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

Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Keynshamvoice, contact the publisher using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website, or can be obtained by contacting the Publisher.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Keynshamvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Keynshamvoice is distributed each month to residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed, contact Emma Cooper on 0117 908 2121 or emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk. This month 10,750 copies will be distributed in Keynsham, Saltford and the local area.

n NEWS

Councillors’ call to restore bus link with Stockwood

A GROUP of councillors are calling on Metro Mayor Dan Norris to help restore a bus link between Keynsham and Stockwood.

They say it “makes no sense” that two communities so close together are not connected by public transport.

The group consists of Alex Beaumont and George Leach (Keynsham North ward councillors for Bath & North East Somerset Council) and Graham Morris and Jonathan Hucker (Stockwood ward for Bristol City Council).

In an open letter to Mr Norris, they said: “In our opinion, and in the opinion of our residents, there is an obvious and pressing need for a bus service to connect the two areas. This is especially so as the WestLink Demand Responsive Transport Service does not operate at all in Stockwood Ward.

“Such a bus service would provide access to the range of retail, leisure and hospitality facilities available in Keynsham.

“These facilities are effectively denied to residents of Stockwood who do not possess a motor vehicle.

“This is not good for the economy in Keynsham or the quality of life for people in Stockwood.

“It is pertinent that 16% of people who live in Stockwood Ward are aged 70 or over and we feel that these people would greatly benefit from a bus service.

“However, we also believe that a bus service would be well

utilised across all demographic groups. For example, children from Stockwood attend Broadlands Academy in Keynsham.

“The fact that there is no public transport link between two communities that are in such close proximity makes no sense at all.

“Efforts to create a better bus service is something we have been working on for a long time. In 2022 WECA Transport Officers designed route 520 to operate from Imperial Park to Keynsham (via Stockwood) with a subsidised service. When subsidised services were cut, this route fell without even being trialled.

“Service 515 currently operates between Imperial Park and the Coots. Perhaps it would be worth considering whether this service could be extended to Keynsham High Street.

“We appreciate that resources are finite. However, we strongly believe it is imperative that our two communities are connected by a public transport link.

“We request you give this your serious consideration.”

In addition to the letter, Councillor Leach said: “I believe that bus services provide a vital link between communities and the reckless cuts enacted last year by WECA in exchange for the failed WestLink project have caused unnecessary damage that Mayor Norris has an obligation to reverse.”

The councillors were still awaiting a response from Mr Norris as the Voice went to press.

‘Dismay’ as bypass bus lane plan retained

supportive of making existing bus lanes 24 hours or new bus lanes in the Brislington area.

But the report adds: “The Bath & North East Somerset section will retain the bus lane along the Keynsham Bypass as well as the speed limit reduction due to the benefits to bus journey times and air quality/emissions respectively.”

The walking, wheeling and cycling path along the Keynsham bypass has been dropped due to the cost and the effect on biodiversity. It has been replaced by a proposed segregated bi-directional cycle track and widened footways along Durley Hill to connect Keynsham to the segregated cycle track between Hicks Gate and Brislington Park and Ride.

The walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure proposed on Keynsham’s Bath Road remains, connecting Keynsham to Saltford and Bath via the Bristol and Bath Railway Path.

Most respondents objected to proposals to add a bus lane between the Broadmead roundabout and Saltford. Yet it remains in WECA’s proposals.

In response to WECA, George Leach, Liberal Democrat councillor for Keynsham North, told the Voice: “I am dismayed that, despite overwhelming public responses in opposition to these plans, WECA and Mayor Dan Norris are continuing to move forward with the absurd plan to reduce the Keynsham bypass to a single lane in exchange for a bus service that only uses the bypass at best every nine minutes.

“Having attended a A4 Bath to Bristol engagement report briefing by WECA and challenged them on their lack of transparency and democratic accountability, I will continue to push for residents to have their voices heard.

“WECA have stated they will set up a community engagement body with an intention to have the first meeting in September 2024 but, as this body lacks any power, it risks being nothing more than a talking shop unless WECA confers some actual authority to it, which I would encourage them to do.

“WECA’s own engagement survey results significantly contradict the plans they intend to take forward and I am calling on Mayor Dan Norris to halt these plans in their current form and revise to reflect the feedback residents in Keynsham and across the wider A4 corridor have actually given.”

putting double yellow lines on the High Street, near its junction with The Shallows, or on the Manor Road parking bays near the junction with the Bath Road.

WECA is also no longer proposing to remove the A4 pedestrian island crossing near The Crown on the Bath Road or to introduce ‘shared paths’ on pavements at Manor Road and Grange Road.

At a meeting of WECA’s

overview and scrutiny committee, it was acknowledged that many of the proposals were “extremely unpopular”.

Malcolm Parsons, interim delivery director for transport infrastructure at the combined authority, said: “We’re setting up a suite of local forums for members of the community to get more involved in the discussions.

“The challenge, rather than delivery of the scheme, would be disruption to the network and how we move people around while we’re doing those works.

But he added: “I am absolutely confident that we will get that scheme delivered, because actually it’s not that complicated. It’s quite simple.”

Work is not due to start until at least September next year and is scheduled to be completed by March 2027.

Voice reporter and Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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A 24-hour bus lane is proposed for the A4 Keynsham bypass

SALTFORD Football Club’s Jack Boulton Day has raised £3,000 for charity.

The event was held in memory of Jack Boulton, a talented young sportsman who died aged 17 of a sudden cardiac arrest in 2009.

between Saltford old boys and Longwell Green old boys. A competitive game finished 3-1 to Longwell Green.

Back at Saltford, a number of the junior teams competed amongst themselves.

Adam Rider, left, with Dave Boulton – Adam was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2021 and has championed the work of Brain Tumour Support

well supported. The bar was open, a barbecue was chefed by Kip Lewis, and auction and raffle took place. Anna and Dan Maggs conducted the proceedings.

In a departure from previous years, the adult football match was held at Longwell Green FC

The £3,000 raised has been shared equally between Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) and Brain Tumour Support. £3,000 raised in Jack’s memory

Iain and Adam Rider, together with Jack’s dad Dave Boulton, organised the day, which was

Have your say on parking charge rises

RESIDENTS are invited to have their say on proposals that include emissions-based parking charges in Keynsham and Saltford.

The plans would also end free parking in Midsomer Norton and Radstock and charge motorbikes to park in Bath.

Bath and North East Somerset Council wants to make £195,000 by rolling out its emissions-based charges to more locations and raising the prices at Bath car parks.

The currently free South Road car park in Midsomer Norton and Church Street and Waterloo Road car parks in Radstock would get the new charges under the plan.

Emissions-based charges would also be rolled out to all on street pay-and-display locations in Bath, all council car parks in Keynsham, the Shallows car park at the Saltford beauty spot, and hotel parking permits.

Emissions-based parking was introduced in council car parks in Bath in September 2023. Pay-and-display machines look up a vehicle’s emissions from the DVLA and

charge based on how much carbon is emitted or, if this information is not available, the capacity of the engine.

Most of the new charges would be introduced in October 2024 and go up again in October 2025, while on-street charges in Bath would go up in January 2025 and again in 2026. But first the plans are going out for public consultation so people can have their say, which will run until August 8.

Charges will increase by 10p per hour for the least polluting vehicles but, because charges depend on emissions, some vehicles may pay more.

For the least polluting vehicles, the overnight parking charge in Bath car parks will go up by £1 and evening parking at Charlotte Street would go up by £1 in October 2024 and £1.30 in October 2025. The threehour and 24-hour tariffs in Baths park and rides would go up by 50p.

Car parks in Midsomer Norton and Radstock will be priced at the same level as car parks in Keynsham. The charges in

both locations will apply from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday inclusive, with the first half hour free. The maximum time you can park in the Church Street and Waterloo Road car parks in Radstock will remain five hours.

Cllr Manda Rigby, the council’s cabinet member for transport, said: “Our aim is to improve air quality, reduce congestion and encourage other ways to travel across Bath and North East Somerset and these proposals would be another step in the right direction to achieve this.”

But traders in Midsomer Norton and Radstock have warned the plans to end their free parking could “kill the town.” One shop owner on Midsomer Norton High Street who commutes from Frome said she would shut up shop if she had to pay parking charges every day.

To respond to the consultation and see more details, visit https://beta.bathnes.gov. uk/parkingchargereview John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

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Dinner lady Viv celebrates

DINNER lady Viv Townsend celebrated her 80th birthday in style at St Keyna Primary School in Keynsham.

She started at St Keyna’s predecessor school, Temple Primary, in 1978 and has 46 years of continuous service in Keynsham schools. Viv also volunteers at St Keyna for six hours a day, carrying out tasks such as sorting, tidying, laminating and keeping the staffroom immaculate.

The headteacher, Mr Gumm,

said: “The school community is very grateful to Viv for everything that she gives to our school. She is like a mum to the staff, and nan or grandma to the children, and she really does care for everyone.”

As part of the festivities, the children sang “Mrs Townsend, we love you” to the tune of ‘Grandma, we love you’ and she was presented with many cards and gifts. Finally, a whole-school picnic was held, attended by parents and former staff, to celebrate the special day.

Fancy a friendly game with us?

DO you fancy playing table tennis? If you like to play occasionally, a group in Compton Dando are inviting you to join them at the village hall for adult-friendly and informal sessions.

They welcome all abilities, in particular those who haven’t played for a number of years but who would like to play again with a sociable group of people. The cost

Pam hopes sweet shop will find a successor

THE OWNER of Scrumptious Sweets in Keynsham is set to leave the business – but says she is confident of finding someone to take it over.

Pam Garrie, who has run the High Street shop with both her daughters for five years, has decided not to renew the lease due to other commitments.

But a number of people have expressed an interest in taking over the premises. There are three or four possibilities, she said, all of which would involve retaining a sweet shop but would also “bring something extra to the High Street.”

Pam said: “I’m confident of finding someone to take over.”

Although Pam has a full-time job in business development, sales and marketing, she hopes to keep the shop open until a successor can take over, avoiding any temporary closure.

Pam said she has been touched by the “lovely comments

from customers” since news of her departure was announced.

She has seen her youngest customers grow up from when they were “below the counter”, while her oldest customer, aged 98, visits each week on his mobility scooter for his mint imperials and toffees.

Anyone else who is interested in taking over the business is asked to email Pam at info@scrumptioussweets.co.uk

Saturday 10th August

per session is £5 and includes tea/ coffee and biscuits.

Any money made after expenses goes to Julian House in Bath. The group usually send about £1,000 every Christmas.

To find out more, call organiser Richard Davis on 01761 490727 or 07968 269841 or email him at richardjamesdavis@hotmail.com

Photo: Ros Anstey

n COMPTON DANDO SUNDAY TEAS

SUNDAY afternoon teas continue to be held each week at St Mary’s Church in Compton Dando, with the last being served on Bank Holiday Monday August 26.

The teas, which began in Easter, will continue each Sunday from 2.30pm to 5pm, with the profits going to St Mary’s Church funds.

One of the organisers, Jenny Davis, said: “We welcome walkers and families, with or without dogs, and old friends too, who come to enjoy our tea and homemade cakes, and our lovely village and church.”

Pictured enjoying their Sunday tea are Freya Biffin, Adam Sheward and Mossy, 3, enjoying Sunday afternoon tea and cake

Pictured serving the teas are Steph Butler (left), Jenny Davis (centre) and Anne Milbin

Photos: Ros Anstey

Residents object

Battlefield: The proposed solar farm site in Compton Dando. The field concerned lies behind the telegraph pole in the photo on the right

PLANS for two solar farms on green fields near Keynsham have prompted objections from local residents.

The latest application, for a site at Burnett, has been made by Conrad Energy (Developments) II Limited to Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Another application - for a solar farm at Compton Dando – has been submitted to the council by Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE)

about drainage, construction traffic, wildlife and landscaping during a public consultation at the end of last year.

But 18 local residents had objected to the plans as the Voice went to press.

One said: “I object to this application on the basis that this land is for food growing.

The Burnett scheme concerns 70 acres of farmland at Middlepiece Lane. The site, to the south of Burnett Business Park, is in the green belt.

The developer says the solar farm would supply enough energy annually for about 5,700 homes. It would be decommissioned after 40 years and the site would be returned to agricultural use.

The ground-mounted solar panels would have a maximum height of about 2.6 metres.

Access to the development once operational would be via an existing field gate on the eastern site boundary on the lane that connects Gypsy Lane and Middlepiece Lane.

Conrad Energy (Developments) II Limited says there are no public rights of way within the site and that the risk of flooding is low.

Construction would take about nine months. The proposed construction site access would be from the B3116 from the north, extending through Keynsham then east on Gypsy Lane to reach the site, which is accessed via an existing agricultural track.

“Instead of placing solar panels in fields, every new house built should have solar panels on the roof and existing houses should follow suit.”

Another commented: “Stop destroying our wildlife and farmland. This whole area is being systematically polluted with planning applications and it’s gone too far.”

Six commented in support of the scheme, with one saying it was an “ideal site for muchneeded renewable energy generation, especially if it can be dual use for sheep grazing.”

Meanwhile, Compton Dando residents have objected to a proposed solar farm on Fairy Hill. The 12-acre farmland site is close to the village centre and nearby homes, and is also in the green belt.

Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) is being supported in its plans by Zero Carbon Compton (ZCC), described as an informal group that aims to support the community in supporting carbon emissions. ZCC said it surveyed all the homes in the village and received 70% support for a solar farm at Fairy Hill.

The developer said no HGV construction traffic would be routed through the Burnett.

It said it has amended its plans to address issues raised

But Compton Dando Parish Council said: “Having viewed the comments on the BANES portal, it is evident that the majority of residents of Compton Dando do not support this project.”

It said that, of the 91 villagers who responded, 70 objected, equating to 77%.

to plans for two solar farms

The council said: “Many of the support comments were from people who do not live in Compton Dando village.”

It added that, now that Redlynch Lane has been named as the HGV route, it has serious safety concerns because of the dangerous Redlynch Lane/ Charlton Road junction, as this junction is already part of an ongoing safety issue with BANES.

The council said it supported applications that contribute positively to tackling the Climate Emergency, but with the two solar farms at Marksbury and the one proposed in Burnett, this application would contribute to a feeling of being surrounded by solar farms.

PLANS have been unveiled to fit solar panels on the roof of a Keynsham school.

Bath & West Community Energy (BCWE) wants to install them on Wellsway School’s Lansdown Building in Chandag Road.

BCWE estimates that the site would use 86.5% of the solar electricity generated, with the rest being exported to the National Grid.

It estimates that the panels would save more than 12 tonnes of carbon annually for the school.

BCWE says it was founded as a not-for-profit community benefit society in 2010 with the aim of

One of the residents opposed to the scheme is John Dibble, who said objections have also been raised by walking groups, horse riders, anglers and wildlife photographers. If the plan went ahead, Mr Dibble said that a natural habitat for a wide range of wildlife would be lost, and it would have significant adverse impact on views across the valley from footpaths, the BANES cycle route and nearby housing.

He said that villagers opposed to the plans were not against renewable energy but that the Fairy Hill site is a “totally inappropriate location for such an intrusive industrial development.”

He added that if the scheme

taking “positive action in the face of the climate emergency and growing energy insecurity.”

The installation would be fully funded by BWCE from investment in its community share offer, so there would be no capital outlay for the school.

Any surplus income would go in BCWE’s community benefit fund, which gives grants to local green, decarbonisation and fuel poverty projects.

BCWE has submitted a ‘prior approval’ request for the scheme to Bath & North East Somerset Council. Comments can be made until August 15. The planning reference is 24/02571/SOLPA.

Illegal vapes seized from town shops

RESIDENTS are being urged to report any concerns about businesses selling illegal vapes after trading standards and other agencies raided two shops in Keynsham.

More than 1,000 illegal disposable vapes were seized from the premises, along with illegal tobacco.

The raids followed reports to Bath & North East Somerset Council that age-restricted products including vapes were being supplied to children and that illegal tobacco was being traded from the premises.

were approved “it would be difficult to protect any area of Green Belt within BANES from similar development.”

Zero Carbon Compton said the solar farm would be shielded from view as much as possible and that its visual impact would be, at most, moderate.

“Supporting this small solar farm in our village, at no personal financial cost to villagers, is surely a small price to pay for a fully reversible scheme which helps tackle climate change. “

l The deadline for comments on the Compton Dando scheme has passed. Comments on the Burnett plans can be made via B&NES Council’s planning portal until August 10. The reference is 24/02489/EFUL.

The sale of disposable vapes to young people has risen locally and nationally, with government statistics showing that 69% of current vapers aged 11 to 17 in Britain are using disposable vapes, up from 7.7% in 2021.

The council’s trading standards team has been carrying out regular checks on products for sale.

The Keynsham seizures resulted from an operation led by the council’s trading standards team and supported by Avon & Somerset Police, HMRC, Trading Standards South West and a dog handler with dogs trained to detect tobacco and vapes.

If a member of the public has any concern about a business, or believe they have seen illegal or counterfeit products for sale, they should report it to Citizens Advice Consumer Service through their web portal, or by phoning 0808 223 1133. All reports are passed to trading standards.

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School welcomes bishop

CHILDREN and staff at Two Rivers CofE Primary welcomed the Bishop of Bath and Wells to their environmentally friendly school building in Keynsham.

The Rt Rev Michael Beasley was shown around the awardwinning building and took part in an assembly with pupils before a plaque was unveiled to mark the official opening. The chair of Bath & North East Somerset Council, Councillor Karen Walker, was also in attendance.

Two Rivers School was opened by Futura Learning Partnership in 2020 to serve the growing Hygge Park estate in east Keynsham. Two years later, staff and pupils moved into their eco-buildings.

Futura worked in partnership

with B&NES Council to develop the school to the highest Passivhaus environmental standards.

Futura chief executive Andrea Arlidge said: “Educating children to live well and be the next guardians of our planet is of critical importance, and the philosophy of Two Rivers, and its innovative building, is leading the way in showing what is possible.

“It is a national example of how great architecture and design can provide an educational environment that promotes sustainability.”

The school’s name was chosen to link old and new, reflecting the town’s development around Keynsham Abbey at the confluence of the rivers Chew and Avon about

Andrea Arlidge and Bishop Michael with headteacher Matt Filer and children at the unveiling of the plaque to mark the official opening of Two Rivers Church of England Primary School

1,000 years ago. Two Rivers Primary is one of six Bath & Wells Diocese Church of England schools in the 26-strong Futura family of schools in

Somerset and the West of England. The school was rated Outstanding in its first inspection by Ofsted last year.

Passengers back call for bus diversion

MORE bus passengers have backed calls for the 39 service to make some of its journeys through Keynsham instead of along the bypass.

As reported in our July issue, a Saltford resident told how she relies on the hourly Air Decker to travel between the village and Keynsham about twice a week.

The Air Decker, run by Bath Bus Company, is the only service that regularly travels between Saltford and Keynsham during the day.

But Margaret Grindrod said that the “shocking” state of the service – with buses arriving late or being cancelled – meant an alternative should be found

She suggested that the 39 and X39 service run by First Bus should be diverted once an hour through Keynsham instead of along the A4 bypass.

Now other readers have contacted the Voice to support Margaret’s proposals.

A cancer patient who travels between Keynsham and the Royal United Hospital in

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Bath for treatment says that trying to make the journey by bus is a “nightmare”.

The woman, who asked not to be named, said: “I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer resulting in many hospital appointments. I have been lucky that family have helped as I, like many, do not drive.

“I have now had surgery for my cancer and will have to attend the RUH for chemotherapy, and this could be a few times a week for many weeks.

“How on earth I’m going to be able to do that is a great worry as the bus service is just so appalling. How are people like myself supposed to manage?

“As a senior citizen, I have a bus pass, but to what use?”

She said that the 39 service only goes to Keynsham at “ridiculous times” on weekdays, such as very early or very late, although it is more regular at weekends.

A spokesperson for First West of England, who runs the 39 bus, said in response to the suggestions: “As part of our enhanced

Sensational surfing at The Wave

THE Wave is a slice of the ocean, inland near Bristol. Offering perfect, guaranteed waves for surfers of all abilities, it’s the perfect place to learn to surf this summer.

This year the launch of the ‘Little Rippers’ session allows children as young as four to learn to surf. Or if you just want to get in for a splash, Play In The Bay is a summer favourite.

For others looking to kick-start their surfer journey, look no further than a beginner lesson. Already a keen surfer? The Wave offers great sessions from intermediate to expert every day.

But The Wave is more than just surfing. With free parking and free entry, families can spend a day at The Wave with or without getting wet.

The play park and skate ramp keep kids of all ages entertained for hours, and the shoreline café and restaurant offer all-day dining, great-tasting coffee and a licensed bar. And if you don’t want to drive home … book a night in a glamping-style safari tent right next to the lake.

The Wave is an unmissable trip this holiday. Visit The Wave just off Junction 17 of the M5, near Cribbs Causeway.

partnership with the West of England Combined Authority, we make changes to our network twice a year, usually in the spring and autumn.

“As part of that process, we work closely with local transport authorities, consider feedback from customers, and look at our data to see where we can make improvements to our network.

“It would be impossible to implement every idea put forward, but they are considered as part of our network changes.

“This idea of the service 39 passing through Keynsham town will be passed on to our network planning team, and customers also have the option of contacting the West of England Combined Authority about local ideas for bus routes.”

Bath Bus Company says it is reviewing the Air Decker timetable as a result of customer concerns, which have highlighted the need to extend running times and adjust mid-route timing points.

l Letters: Page 31

New charity shop takes off

and it’s been a pleasure to raise money for the charity.”

Olympic spirit in bloom

shop

Holly Sheehan, sister to former patient Luke, cut the ribbon at the opening.

She said: “Great Western Air Ambulance Charity means a lot to me because they looked after my brother Luke when he had his accident at work, even though he didn’t make it.

“It’s a really big honour to be asked to open the shop after everything GWAAC did for Luke,

Holly is continuing her efforts to raise £30,000 by May 3 next year, which would have marked Luke’s 30th birthday. She has already raised £26,000 for GWAAC.

The new shop at 5 Bath Hill was previously occupied by the Young Lives vs Cancer charity shop. It is open 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, selling second-hand clothes, accessories, and household goods.

ABBEYFIELD House in Keynsham added a sporting flavour to its garden when South West in Bloom judges came to town.

The retirement home was visited by the judges during their tour of Keynsham on July 19.

House manager Charlene Fleck said: “We are using the theme the RHS [Royal Horticultural Society] suggested of ‘friendship’, so what better way than the whole world brought together with the Paris

Olympics to give us inspiration for our beautiful garden. We have gathered all sorts of Olympic sporting equipment, all free, upcycled or donated, and turned them into an Olympic floral display.”

Going with the Paris theme, volunteers, residents and staff turned the summerhouse into a French café and the garden obelisk into an Eiffel tower.

l Keynsham in Bloom: Page 29

THE Great Western Air Ambulance Charity has opened its new

in Keynsham.

Zoo treat for care home residents

RESIDENTS from Kingfisher Lodge care home in Saltford enjoyed some animal magic at the Bristol Zoo Project.

The visitors saw animals from around the world and enjoyed a packed lunch provided by the home’s hospitality team. And they

sang songs on the way back in the home’s minibus.

Claudia Costineau, general manager of Kingfisher Lodge, said: “Our residents have really enjoyed their day out at the zoo.

“Trips out in the home’s minibus are a regular event for the

residents, and we always ask for ideas on where they would best like to go. The day was a lot of fun.”

Kingfisher Lodge, which is run by Barchester Healthcare, provides residential care and dementia care for 60 residents, ranging from respite care to long-term stays.

New bus services on the way

METRO Mayor Dan Norris has announced that another eight new WESTlocal bus services will start running in September, including two serving Keynsham.

WESTlocal allows communities to access cash to design and run their own not-for-profit bus services. The latest successful bidders include Keynsham Town Council, for an hourly service that will run between south Keynsham and Somerdale, as well as serving Wellsway and Chandag schools.

Oldland Parish Council has secured funding for a new early-morning and late-evening service between Yate and Keynsham, and midday and afternoon return journeys from Emersons Green to Keynsham (Monday to Friday).

Mr Norris said: “I am delighted that so many local communities and organisations have taken up

my challenge and put together winning bids.

“From connecting schools and colleges, getting people to work and providing much-needed links to shops, these new WESTlocal’s are imaginative and designed with local people in mind.”

The new WESTlocal schemes, which are expected to start on September 1, include buses serving Charfield, Chew Valley, Winford, Avonmouth and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGC).

WESTlocal is a fund from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), in partnership with North Somerset Council. Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan.

WECA secured the second highest settlement per head nationwide from government of this fund.

High Street cashpoint plan refused

PLANS for a 24-hour cashpoint next to Keynsham Mini Market in the High Street have been turned down.

Cardtronics UK Ltd wanted to install the Cashzone machine next to the main entrance, with associated signage.

But Bath & North East Somerset Council has refused planning permission, after concerns were raised about parking, highways and the visual impact of the proposed scheme.

The council’s highways team raised no objection, saying the footway was wide enough at the location to avoid a significant inconvenience when the ATM was in use.

But Keynsham Town Council did object, saying the shop was near a pedestrian crossing.

It added: “This section of the High Street is frequently congested by double parking both sides of the road and on-pavement parking.”

In its crime prevention design planning response, Avon & Somerset Police raised concerns about potential illegal parking if drivers decided to “park for a minute” to access the ATM.

A council report stated: “The submitted plans illustrate existing inappropriate signage which is subject of an enforcement case.

“Officers invited revised plans showing this signage removed, with the ATM only being shown. The applicant did not submit revised information nor indicate this would be forthcoming.”

School’s playtime award

CHERRY Garden Primary School in Bitton has been honoured for enhancing lunchtime play.

The school is part of the OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Primary Programme, which aims to help schools provide high-quality play day.

Over the past three years, staff, parents and pupils have worked to transform the school’s half acre of forest area with a tree house, rope swing, outdoor classroom, pond and hideout.

The school has now received OPAL’s platinum award, its

highest honour, placing Cherry Garden in the top one per cent nationally for lunchtime play.

The play facilities have been a big hit with the pupils.

Charlie said: “I love playing in the field, in the Magic Forest, on the boat, in the mud kitchens and in the sand pit. I love building dens with my friends and zooming around on the scooters, too.”

And Florence “Playtimes at Cherry Garden are the absolute best and now we can prove it with our award.”

NEXT GENERATION WOOD

MP WATCH Net zero in the spotlight

AN AUDIENCE of about 100 people attended an event in Keynsham titled Net Zero or Not Zero - Can We Afford to Transition?

The event at the Space was hosted by MP Watch North East Somerset & Hanham (previously known as Mogg Watch) just before the general election.

Those attending heard Lord Deben, former chair of Parliament’s Independent Climate Change Committee, talk about the environmental crisis, interviewed by Alastair Singleton (from Mogg Watch) with Jessica Townsend, founder of MP Watch.

In a wide-ranging talk, Lord Deben cited (amongst others) Margaret Thatcher - “we don’t have this world freehold, but on a full repairing lease” - and the Pope“what is shown by climate change is the earth crying out for healing” - identifying that the people who will be affected most will be the poorest in the world.

He asked the audience to challenge politicians to commit to meeting net zero by 2050 (or sooner) and to achieving

the interim targets in 2030 and 2035. He said the cost of not doing something about climate change would be huge and that an investment of just 1% of GDP would help us lead others and achieve our goals.

Responding to comments from the audience, Lord Deben clarified that electric cars, although not perfect, are much better than any alternative (despite misinformation from the fossil fuel producers); that battery technology is advancing rapidly, and that airport expansion is unacceptable.

MP Watch North East Somerset & Hanham is looking forward to establishing a meaningful dialogue with our new MP Dan Norris on this and other topics.

David Leverton

I’ll do both jobs, says new MP Dan

DAN Norris has confirmed he will “do both jobs” as newly elected Labour MP and Metro Mayor.

Mr Norris won the North East Somerset and Hanham seat from Conservative Jacob Rees-Mogg by 20,739 votes to his 15,420.

Reform UK, whose voters Sir Jacob had urged to support him - saying they would get “90% of what they want” - took 7,424 votes, enough to have made the difference if they had backed the Conservatives.

Mr Norris says he will stay in the mayoral post at least for the rest of his term, which runs until May 2025, and hinted he was considering running for Metro Mayor again if he found it was possible to do both roles.

Mr Norris told ITV News West Country: “Until at least next May I will do both jobs. And that makes sense because to call a byelection when you’ve got an electorate of about a million people is a hugely expensive thing.”

He said the next few months would allow

General election results in full:

l Dan Norris (Labour) 20,739 (40.57%)

l Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg (Conservative) 15,420 (30.16%)

l Paul MacDonnell (Reform) 7,424 (14.52%)

l Dine Romero (Liberal Democrat) 3,878 (7.59%)

l Edmund Cannon (Green) 3,222 (6.30%)

l Nicholas Hales (Independent) 231 (0.45%)

l Barmy Brunch (Monster Raving Loony) 211 (0.41%)

him to work out if doing both jobs would be possible in the long term.

“Obviously I will be taking soundings.But there’s a lot of precedents in politics. Many MPs are ministers, for example. I have done that myself and I think it’s very similar to being a regional mayor, so I think it’s doable. But I’m not going to make a decision now.”

MPs are allowed to be Metro Mayors of combined authorities and it has happened before. Dan Jarvis, MP for Barnsley Central

A coffee, tea and cake sale in Keynsham has raised £400 for Dorothy House Hospice Care. Debbie Duffy hosted the event on her driveway for the charity, which cared for her mother, Patricia Munday.

Dan Norris, on the right, attending the meeting between new Prime Minister Keir Starmer and England’s 12 regional metro mayors

and later Barnsley North since 2011, was also the Metro Mayor of South Yorkshire between 2018 and 2022.

Mr Norris went to 10 Downing Street when new Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his deputy Angela Rayner met England’s 12 regional mayors. Mayors attending the meeting have been asked to draw up “local growth plans” to identify local specialisms to contribute to a national industrial strategy. Mr Norris said the West of England’s local specialisms would include “creative industries.”

Mr Starmer said: “My fundamental belief is that those with skin in the game are the ones who know best what they need. That’s why, for many years I have been in constant dialogue with metro mayors across the country about what works for their areas, and I will continue that now as Prime Minister.” John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service l Letters: Page 31

We will be running after school lessons in Saltford from September on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30 – 6:30pm.

Additional days/times will be added in October

If you are interested in booking lessons please contact Kathy, Gordon or Jasper Lye

e-mail your details to:

barracudaswimming.bath@gmail.com barracudaswimming.bath@gmail.com

Sun and rain, but fete still shines

WITH the promise of rain all day on July 6, the villagers of Compton Dando held their breath as they put up marquees and gazebos, but come 2pm the sun came out.

It stayed that way until just before 4pm when the heavens opened, just in time for the duck

MORNINGS AND EVENING

OPEN MORNINGS AND EVENING

AND

MORNINGS AND EVENING

OPEN MORNINGS AND EVENING

COME AND VISIT US

Morning - Tuesday 2nd July - Tours

2nd July - Tours

9.15am-10.20am

VISIT US

Opening Morning - Tuesday 2nd July - Tours from 9.15am-10.20am

OPEN EVENING

COME AND VISIT US

families who are interested September 2025. will finish at 10.45am, the last

Tuesday 2nd July - Tours

tours to students and families who are interested School in September 2025. that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last 10.20am

Opening Morning - Tuesday 2nd July - Tours from 9.15am-10.20am

Thursday 19th September

We are offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2025. Please be advised that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last tour will depart at 10.20am

students and families who are interested September 2025. morning will finish at 10.45am, the last

We are offering tours to students and families who are interested in joining Wellsway School in September 2025.

Headteacher’s introduction starts at 6pm

19th September starts at 6pm be repeated at 6.45pm and 7.40pm opportunity to hear about our unique to freely explore our facilities and wonderful young people. A variety of the evening — showcasing all aspects

- Thursday 19th September introduction starts at 6pm introduction will be repeated at 6.45pm and 7.40pm visitors have the opportunity to hear about our unique Families will then be able to freely explore our facilities and throughout by our wonderful young people. A variety of place throughout the evening — showcasing all aspects School.

Open Evening - Thursday 19th September

Please be advised that the morning will finish at 10.45am, the last tour will depart at 10.20am

Headteacher’s introduction starts at 6pm

Thursday 19th September introduction starts at 6pm

Open Evening - Thursday 19th September

Headteacher’s introduction starts at 6pm

The Headteacher’s introduction will be repeated at 6.45pm and 7.40pm to ensure all our visitors have the opportunity to hear about our unique community. Families will then be able to freely explore our facilities and will be guided throughout by our wonderful young people. A variety of activities will take place throughout the evening — showcasing all aspects of life at Wellsway School. Developing

introduction will be repeated at 6.45pm and 7.40pm have the opportunity to hear about our unique then be able to freely explore our facilities and by our wonderful young people. A variety of throughout the evening — showcasing all aspects

The headteacher’s introduction will be repeated at 6.45pm and 7.40pm to ensure all our visitors have the opportunity to hear about our unique community. Families will then be avle to freely explore our facilities and will be guided throughout by our wonderful young people. A variet of activities will take place throughout the evening - showcasing all aspects of life at Wellsway School.

Developing

Al Parkes with his 1934 REO Flying Claude Coupe, which was one of the classic cars on show at the fete Jacob Rees-Mogg and sons South Bristol Ukes entertain the visitors

Catching ducks at the village fete

Children taking turns to ‘milk the cow’

KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY

The rabbits have gone, but the name lives on

CONYGRE Farm, on St Clement’s Road, Keynsham, is a name that you may be familiar with, and possibly intrigued by.

It goes back to the early days of Keynsham Abbey, a community of priests, known as canons, founded in 1167. Such abbeys had to be almost entirely self-sufficient, and supporting them was the main source of local employment.

Consumption of meat was restricted but the canons could eat rabbit. These had been introduced from France and at this time were not native or wild: they had to be farmed, in man-made warrens.

The story of Keynsham’s medieval rabbit warren begins on 25 May 1280 when the Abbot obtained a licence to enclose a pasture called Wynterleye with a stone wall to make a rabbit warren.

Such a warren was called a conygre, a combination of coney, the old word for rabbit, and graze. The name survives in many locations, including our own Conygre Farm.

Considering how widespread they are today, one has to appreciate that the rabbits could not dig into our wet and rocky ground. Help was provided by constructing an “above ground“ warren containing many pillow mounds.

These soil mounds were normally 10 to 20 metres long by five metres wide and up to a metre high; they were separated from each other by fences and drainage ditches. The design of these mounds provided the rabbits with shelter, breeding spaces, and protection from the elements and predators.

Their core was made of soil and organic matter, and

sometimes stone slabs were used to make a complex structure of tunnels and chambers to mimic burrows. Drainage was provided by underground channels and construction on a slope.

The warren was surrounded by a stone wall to keep the rabbits in and poachers and predators out. Often, accommodation was provided for the warrener, the person responsible for managing the warren, and it is likely that the current farmhouse or outbuildings were built on this medieval building.

Why go to all this effort for

such a small animal? From the 12th century, the rearing of rabbits had become popular due to the demand for both their meat and fur which was treated as a luxury product. The meat was protein-rich and could be consumed during fasting periods when red meat was forbidden by the church. Rabbit fur was also in great demand and was sold to the garment industry to trim robes and cloaks for the wealthy.

Farming rabbits on this site continued from 1280 until well after the abbey was dissolved in 1539. A record from 1553 mentions

the granting of the warren along with the deer park on the other side of Stoney Lane to Sir John St Loe, implying that the status of rabbit meat was equal to that of venison.

We do not know how long the warren carried on functioning, but the name Conygre became attached to the field for centuries afterwards. Certainly by 1811 the warren had reverted to agricultural use. Grazing and ploughing would have soon removed any signs of the pillow mounds. Later expansion of the limestone quarries into both sides of the warren also substantially altered the landscape.

On a 1841 tithe map of Keynsham, the warren area is shown as Conygre and Little Conygre, probably a later extension. We presume the boundaries were similar in medieval times.

Today, the extent can still be seen from the Wellsway and the crumbling wall is still there, hidden beneath the overgrown hedges. Of course, the rabbits have long since escaped and have become well acclimatised to our cold and damp climate.

Paul Benn

Conygre Farm today – the red line shows extent of rabbit warren

A medieval drawing of women hunting rabbits in a pillow mound using a ferret image taken from ‘Queen Mary Psalter’ circa 1310-1320from the archive of the British Library

KEYNSHAM SCOUTS

The new activity barn is taking shape. Right, a haven for bees at the Ashton

We’re buzzing about our new activity barn

A YEAR ago we reported that Keynsham Scouts’ campsite had been hit by fly-tippers, costing the Scout group a lot of money.

One year on and new tippers have been seen on site, but this time with a much happier outcome. The tippers have been lorries, delivering stone, metal and concrete as a new activity barn

rises from the ground. The barn has been designed with Scout activities in mind, from cratestacking to archery, nature watch to navigation. More news on its progress will be unveiled in the coming months.

n In true scouting tradition, camping is a highlight, and this year Keynsham Scouts are going

in three directions. Nearly 50 Scouts and leaders will be based at the Wiltshire Scout centre for six days. New-style patrol tents mixed with traditional dining shelters are a feature. The first Keynsham summer camp took place in 1912, so 112 years on the tradition continues.

A further 22 Scouts and leaders are leaving for the mountains of Norway, where they will be hosted by Scouts from Hovik near Oslo. This joint camp last took place before Covid and restarts a link that goes back to 1977.

Topping off our adventures, KESU (Explorer unit) are off on expedition to Exmoor, slightly closer to home having been to Switzerland in 2023.

n Inspired by World Bee Day, Cotswold Cubs have started a project to encourage pollinators into our local area.

Sessions started off with a visit from a local bee-keeper, and learning about why bees are so special. The Cubs learnt all about

the waggle dance and how bees tell their friends back at the hive where all the lovely nectar can be found. They also made bee hotels and started a gardening project, planting lots of bee-friendly flowers to attract pollinators.

Efforts have continued into the Ashton Way car park outside Scout HQ, where Cotswold Cubs and their families cleared a neglected space and turned it into a haven for bees, butterflies and moths.

n The Keynsham Scouts auction and book sale is on Saturday October 5 at the Scout HQ in Ashton Way. Visit our website www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk for more details on how to donate items and details for the day. Put the date in your diary – it’s an event not to be missed.

n Keynsham Scouting provides fabulous opportunities for our young people and seeks adult volunteers to make things happen. If you would like to learn more, email scouts@1stkeynshamscouts. org.uk and let’s chat.

Way car park

Summertime blues

TIME has stood still for one of the clocks in the Keynsham Clocktower since it was damaged by a mysterious fault.

The cause is not yet known, but a spell of hot weather has been blamed.

It appears that the banding inside the clock face has come off, wrapping itself around the hands. One of the hands is still attached but the other has fallen loose.

A spokesperson from BANES Council said: “We are aware of the problem and will be fixing it.”

The clocktower, which was commissioned by Bath and North East Somerset Council in 2015, has three sides and three clock faces. Only one of the faces is affected.

In the meantime, some have likened the clock to Salvador Dali’s painting The Persistence of Memory.

A quilt is a hug you can

A PROJECT with the motto “a quilt is a hug you can keep” is seeking more volunteers to help enrich the lives of children who are ill.

Project Linus has groups nationwide, including one in Timsbury. It meets once a month at the Conygre Hall and attracts several members who live in Keynsham.

The group is run by Linda McGregor, the project’s coordinator for Bath, Wells and surrounding areas.

She delivers quilts and blankets – for children ranging from premature babies to teenagers - to the Royal United Hospital

in Bath, Children’s Hospice West and Barnardo’s, among others.

Linda, who was taught to knit and sew at an early age, said the Timsbury group began after she gave talks to WI groups, and the quilts and blankets began to roll in.

“The ladies asked if they could all meet up once a month in a local venue so they could meet like-minded folk, so we did.”

To find out more about the Timsbury group, call Linda on 01761 752337 or email her at linda.somerset@gmail.com

Photo: Ros Anstey

n BACK TO NATURE

The rewards of a suburban river safari

AUGUST is a relatively quiet time for wildlife. Most birds have finished breeding, young either successfully fledged (or succumbed to disease, lack of food or predation), the hedgerows and woodlands are relatively quiet, apart from the irrepressible robin and wren, and many plants have finished flowering and set seed.

However, there is still plenty to see and hear, especially at dawn and dusk, and one of the most varied and rewarding walks is along our local riverbanks.

A suburban river safari could start right beside the River Chew, at the bottom edge of Keynsham Park, just upstream of the old railway bridge, and around 400m above its confluence with the River Avon (another great place for a riverside walk).

I have walked this stretch many times and it is rare that I don’t see some new and exciting or interesting wildlife, whichever side of the river I decide to walk on.

Between the start and “Echo” bridge (which carries the bypass over the park) is a concrete culvert, built after the devastating floods of 1968 to carry flood water to the Avon.

Although not a thing of beauty, it now has a surprising variety of riverside vegetation, including purple loosestrife and Himalayan balsam, two plants with very contrasting niches in the riverside ecosystem.

The former has an elegant beauty, and the tall, deep purple flowers are a sure sign that summer it at its height. This plant flourishes in wetlands, swamps and bogs and helps to stabilise the wet soil and reduce erosion of the river banks. It attracts a wealth of pollinating insects, and so is considered a beneficial native plant.

In contrast, Himalayan Balsam (as discussed in previous articles) is less welcome on our riverbanks. Individual plants are equally beneficial; in late summer the attractive pink flowers are a valuable pollen and nectar source for bees and other insects when other plants have finished flowering.

However, in late August and through September its dramatically explosive seed pods start discharging hundreds of black

seeds for over one metre. The following spring, germinating seeds can encourage erosion by preventing perennials from colonising.

Its reputation is such that conservation bodies across the UK organise balsam-clearing work parties to reduce its negative impact on the riverside ecosystem. Fortunately, it doesn’t seem to have invaded this part of the Chew to the same extent - yet!

It is always worth pausing beside the culvert, or around the bandstand weir, to listen and look out for the “peep” and flash of iridescent blue and orange as a kingfisher speeds up or downstream. At this time of year ,the river level is (usually) low and the flow rate is slow, so it is also possible to see a heron or two standing at the water’s edge, searching for unsuspecting passing fish.

Both these birds can also be seen further upstream seeking prey in the duck pond below the leisure centre, or below Dapps Hill bridge, where the river is at its shallowest in the park.

Their presence indicates an abundance of

fish; local fishermen report catching carp, chub, perch, roach, rudd and even brown (sea) trout. Smaller fish include minnows and bullheads (miller’s thumbs; so-called because of their bulbous head). This diversity of fish indicates an abundance of food, mainly invertebrates, including stonefly nymphs, several species of mayfly nymphs, cased and uncased caddis fly larvae, and freshwater shrimps.

As BART (Bristol Avon Rivers Trust) riverfly monitor for the Chew at Dapps Hill bridge, I can confirm their presence, as I find them in each of my monthly kick samples. They in turn indicate the low level of organic pollution in the river at that point.

Find out more about our local underwater wildlife by joining us next month when I lead our annual pond dipping sessions - on Saturday September 28 for accompanied children under seven, and river dipping sessions on Sunday September 29 for accompanied children seven and over. Booking is essential and now available - check out our website: www.keynshamawt.org/ events. These events are always popular so get in early.

For more details on Avon Wildlife Trust Keynsham Group, visit our website www. keynshamawt.org, email keynshamawt@gmail. com or phone Kathy on 07850 508702. Dave Sage

Check out the iridescent blue of the kingfisher Photo: Martin Farrell

Heron in the Chew shallows Photo: Dave Sage

A chub caught at Dapps Hill bridge Photo: Rita Andrews

n KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD PROBUS CLUB

CURRENT president Mike Crane led members of Keynsham and Saltford Probus Club in celebrating their 50th anniversary with a lunch and social event at Saltford Golf Club.

Guest of honour was the club’s oldest surviving past president, Kenneth Warr, now in his 90s.

Probus started in 1974 when retiring members of Keynsham Rotary Club founded this new club for retired professionals and businessmen.

First meetings were held at the old Roman Rooms Restaurant in Charlton Road.

The plan was for two meetings per month, a coffee morning and a luncheon, a formula which exists to this day. One major change is that partners are now welcome to most meetings and events.

Over the years the group has met at several different venues, and now Probus is firmly ensconced at Saltford Golf Club.

The aim of the club is to provide friendship and social connections - so important to senior citizensand intellectual stimulation. The latter is achieved through guest speakers at our luncheons, and a wide variety of visits to cultural sites and shows.

To foster new friendships, we have a welcoming team for new members, and we actively encourage people to intermingle at meetings. Should members fall ill, we also have a welfare officer to offer the club’s support. More information about Probus can be found on the club’s website: www.ksprobus.co.uk

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Probus club members at the 50th anniversary celebration photo by Rose Dedman Photography

n 8th KEYNSHAM BROWNIES

Lots of outdoor fun at our great new home

THE 8th Keynsham Brownies have been making new memories and using outdoor space since relocating to our new home.

We started the summer term with a wet trip into the woods for den-building. We also held our first (for many) sleepover, where we worked on three badges, did crafts, made popcorn, watched a film and enjoyed some hot chocolate.

For Father’s Day, we held a ‘bring your dad’

night. The girls and their dads worked together to create a bug hotel using items foraged from our previous trip to the woods.

Dads helped the girls to learn what certain tools were and how to safely use them, while the girls provided refreshments - and there were even a few dad jokes thrown in.

We also held a ‘bring a friend’ night, when the Brownies shared some of their favourite

moments with their friends, then they took part in archery, bowling and made s’mores. Many of the friends now come along to regular meetings.

If your daughter would be interested in joining us or one of the other Brownie units in Keynsham, visit girlguiding.org.uk, email the8thkeynshambrownies@hotmail.com or visit our Girlguiding Keynsham District page on Facebook for more information.

Care Coordinator required

Featherbed Care Agency - Keynsham Requires a mature part-time person to join our friendly team

To join Our Care Agency based in Keynsham

Part time 3 days per week

The agency has been providing live-in carers to clients in their own homes since 1986

We are looking for

The role includes.

• Assessing and visiting clients in their own homes

• A mature, articulate, friendly and outgoing person

• Interviewing new carers

• With health and social care experience

• Day-to-day running of the agency.

• Responding to telephone enquiries

• Have their own transport

What we require

• Be willing to visit clients in their own homes

• Care or nursing experience

• Carry out new assessments

• Driver with own transport

• Interview new carer applicants

• A friendly outgoing approach.

• Be articulate with a good telephone manner.

• Have adequate computer skills

• Basic IT Skills

• Have an excellent telephone manner

16 Hours per week - Free parking on-site

For further details please

Excellent rate of pay plus commission payable

Email: sallycarpenter744@yahoo.com or call/text: 07590 077108

For further details please call Sally on 07590 077108 or email your CV sally.featherbed@outlook.com

KEYNSHAM MEMORIES

with Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society

Ivan Strudwick’s shop was a feature of Keynsham High Street from 1936 to 1983, when this photograph was taken. Initially he ran it as an ironmonger’s but later developed it into an electrical store.

The building, No 53, was constructed in about 1804 and has had many uses. It

was built as a Wesleyan chapel and from 1887 was used as offices and then for the manufacture of boot eyelets.

Today it is home to the Halifax bank, although they will soon be closing, so there will be another chapter in the story of the site.

n NEWS Save the date for the Santa Dash!

SALTFORD Santa Dash will return in its full festive glory on Sunday December 1.

The annual event will this year raise money funds for two local charitiesSporting Family Change and Keynsham & District Mencap Society.

Sporting Family Change uses sport to empower, inspire and motivate local families in Bath and the surrounding area to make positive long-term lifestyle changes. Keynsham & District Mencap Society works to improve the lives and opportunities of children and adults with a wide range of learning disabilities.

This year’s event offers a Go Green option, which allows participants can choose eco-friendly alternatives from home for a festive costume, making this the most sustainable dash yet.

As last year, organisers are offering a choice of a 5km route or a five-mile route on the roads around Saltford and Keynsham. Children can enjoy a run on the Saltford Sports Club field.

Anyone who wants to get involved either on the day or as a sponsor is asked to get in touch via social media or the event’s website - https://www. saltfordsantadash.com/

ON THE BEAT

DURING the school summer break, many of us will be heading off on holiday. So this is a good time to remind you about home security and measures you could consider.

Make sure house alarms are tried and tested before you go away and let trusted neighbours, family or friends know, giving them a key so that, should something happen, they can be on hand to gain access. Check that security lights and locks on your shed, garage and windows are fitted and functioning.

It’s also a good idea to make it look like you are not away, by using timer lights or asking friends or family to pop in or move vehicles on driveways.

Hopefully, there will be plenty of good weather this summer so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors. If you have children or young adults, please remind them of the need to be considerate in shared open spaces.

n We recent acted on a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant in our beat area. To gain the warrant, we had to gather intelligence about what was happening at the location. We then presented our findings to a magistrate, who granted a number of warrants.

As a result of our action, which was

supported by the Bath neighbourhood police team, we found a large quantity of class-B drugs and other items. The suspect was arrested and interviewed and has been released under investigation while a charging decision is made.

This action has already had a positive impact on the local community and disrupted local drug-dealing. We are looking to obtain other warrants and will be actioning then soon.

If you have any information about people, vehicles or locations you believe are involved in dealing drugs, please let us know. You can report this anonymously to Crimestoppers through their website www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is a charitable organisation

that is independent of the police and does not record the informant’s information, which means they cannot share it with the police. We recently met a Crimestoppers team working in Keynsham to promote their service.

n There has been a reduction in the antisocial behaviour that has been troubling Keynsham High Street and surrounding areas.

We have been working with local youth workers, the town council and businesses to combat these issues. We are still implementing some measures and will continue to work towards further reductions. We have also benefited from government initiatives to get extra staff to police the High Street, which has also helped to reduce incidents.

n NEWS FROM KEYNSHAM TOWN COUNCIL

Mark your calendar for Winter Festival

KEYNSHAM Town Council’s much-loved Winter Festival is back for 2024, but this time with extended hours and a slight shift to the day to better accommodate the volume of people expected to attend this year’s event.

For the first time ever, the Winter Festival will be held on Saturday 30th November from 12-7pm but it will still include all the longtime favourites like local market stalls, local musicians, street entertainment and a fun fair.

The daytime event will now allow Festivalgoers, both young and old alike, to fully enjoy the Winter Festival without any time pressures.

“We listened to the community, local businesses and event traders about the Winter

Festival timings and took the feedback on board,” said Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk, Keynsham Town Council.

“Some of Keynsham’s older generation weren’t comfortable attending the Winter Festival in the night-time and many families felt the event started too late in the day for their young children.

“Equally, businesses along the High Street, Market Walk and Temple Street were unable to maximise their trading as there were too many shoppers in too short a time period; whilst for other businesses, the event was outside their regular trading hours and therefore those businesses saw no benefit.”

Keynsham Winter Festival has been running for over 25 years, originally as the Victorian Evening and now as the Winter Festival. During this time, the number of visitors to the Winter Festival has increased year-on-year and the event itself has grown in size.

Coupled with the current cost-of-living crisis, more families from Keynsham and surrounding areas are looking for free or inexpensive ways to spend time together.

This means that community events such as the Winter Festival must adapt to meet the new needs of the community and surrounding areas.

“Alongside the increased volume of people attending the event, there are also some upcoming changes to the legislation surrounding outdoor events, and in particular road closure safety, that also spurred on the timing of the change,” said Katherine Sears.

“Our biggest priority is always about making sure everyone is safe during our community events, but of course we can still have a lot of fun while doing it.”

As in recent years, Festival-goers can expect a free Santa’s Grotto experience courtesy of the South West Lions Club and sponsored for the second year in a row by MG Estates.

Other festival favourites such as face painting, street entertainers and much more can be expected, with further details to come.

The Christmas Jumper Swap that was hugely popular last year is also back, with swap dates being shared in the coming months. Keynsham Town Council will release all details of the Winter Festival on the Council’s Facebook and Instagram pages in the run-up to the event.

Keynsham Market Stall applications now open

Keynsham Town Council is now accepting applications from market stall holders who are interested in being a part of the Winter Festival. Local businesses can find the details by this QR code, or head to the Keynsham Town Council website (www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk), Facebook or Instagram pages for more details. Applications must be submitted by 13th September for consideration.

For more information or with any queries relating to the Winter Festival, please contact Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk, Keynsham Town Council, on deputytownclerk@ keynsham-tc.gov.uk or phone 0117 9868683.

Photo of last year’s Keynsham Winter Festival by Mike May

Help us to shape the future of Keynsham

ON July 1st Keynsham Town Council launched the Community Consultation Questionnaire in support of the Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP).

The NDP is made up of five different surveys – a community consultation, a business consultation, a young person’s consultation, a playground consultation, and a local travel and public transport consultation – with the collective feedback all being brought together to form the basis of the NDP.

“Once developed, the NDP will mean that all future planning by BANES and local developers should take into consideration Keynsham’s local plan, which will be developed in accordance with the BANES approved local plan,” said Dawn Drury, Town Clerk, Keynsham Town Council. “It’s incredibly important to gather as much community feedback as possible to ensure that the NDP is aligned with what the community needs and wants over the next 15-20 years.”

Some of the key areas the NDP will look to gather feedback on include: roads, transport & parking, employment and economic growth, heritage, development & tourism, environmental & ecological issues, cultural development, recreation, sport & leisure activities, and wellbeing and community education. Keynsham Town Council urges all residents to get involved in the current Community Consultation, which can be found online on the Council website or by scanning the QR code in the panel opposite.

Whilst several in-person consultations have already been held, the next consultation will

take place on 10th August, 9am-1pm, at the Somerset Farmer’s Market.

Due to the elections, the consultation was delayed, so Keynsham Town Council

Your chance to see local historical places up close

HERITAGE Open Days are back for September 2024 with a full line-up of local historical activity.

This year marks the third time that cultural venues, businesses and community groups in Keynsham have come together to celebrate England’s biggest heritage festival.

It’s the community’s chance to try out some new activities and see historical places in Keynsham up close – all of which are FREE to explore and experience.

The events are listed below, with the full programme on the Keynsham Town Council website, at the Keynsham Town Council offices (15-17 Temple Street) or in Keynsham Library.

1. Keynsham Abbey Open Day, 7 & 14 September, 2-5pm, Keynsham Abbey, Keynsham Park, BS31 2BT

2. Albert Mill Heritage Weekend, 7 & 8 September, 10am-4pm, Albert Mill, Dapps Hill, BS31 1UL

3. Keynsham Methodism – In the

Footsteps of the Wesleys, 9, 11 & 12 Sept, 10am-12pm, Keynsham Methodist Church, Charlton Road

4. Talk: Keynsham Cemetery and the Roman Villa, 10 Sept, 7:308:30pm, MakeSpace, 2 Riverside Terrace (across from Keynsham Leisure Centre)

5. Talk: The Brass Mills of Keynsham, 12 Sept, 7:30-8:30pm, MakeSpace, 2 Riverside Terrace (across from Keynsham Leisure Centre)

6. Talk: Keynsham Abbey - the History and Archaeology, 13 Sept, 7:30-8:30pm, MakeSpace, 2 Riverside Terrace (across from Keynsham Leisure Centre)

7. Phones, Photos and Fun with Keynsham Snap and Stroll, 14 Sept, 10am-4pm, MakeSpace, 2 Riverside Terrace (across from Keynsham Leisure Centre)

8. Keynsham Cemetery Open Day, 14 September, 10am–2pm, Durley Hill, BS31 2BE

may extend the deadline for completion. For more information on the Neighbourhood Development Plan, please contact Keynsham Town Council on admin@keynsham-tc.gov.uk.

n NEWS

Safety signs for swimmers

SIGNS advising swimmers of hidden dangers lurking in local rivers and canals have gone up at Saltford Weir and other popular open-water swimming hotspots.

The 11 signs, installed by Bath & North East Somerset Council, encourage people to be aware of risks posed by strong currents, hidden underwater objects that could cause serious injury, and parasites in the water. They also include a site-specific what3words QR code to help the emergency services. As well as Saltford Weir, signs have been placed at Dundas Aqueduct, The Old Mill Hotel at Bathampton Mill, Bathampton Toll Bridge and Grosvenor Bridge in Bath.

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

HKen Plant Reader/ Licensed Lay Minister St Mary’s, Saltford

‘

We live in a world where countries, societies and even communities are divided. These divisions are caused and made worse by people not listening to each other ...

ow many of us, I wonder, watched the BBC programme Lost Boys and Fairies”? It was a tour de force on the part of the writer, producer and actors. Like any other programme on TV, there are many reasons why we may not have watched it: other priorities, clashes with favourite programmes or just not being to our taste.

But some of us may not have watched because we disapproved of the subject matter. It was ostensibly about a gay couple who wanted to adopt a child, but it was about much more than that. It was about families, friendship, inner-hate, personal growth, tragedy, despair, hope, caring, kindness and above all, of love.

There were scenes some viewers would find disturbing, even offensive, but they were there to reflect episodes in life as some people experience it.

However, are any of these issues reason enough for choosing not to watch? We live in a world where countries, societies and even communities are divided. These divisions are caused and made worse by people not listening to each other and so being unable to understand why others are different from them.

This is a growing trend world-wide and there are those who encourage division as a technique to control societies. Sadly, there are world leaders today doing similar things. Even at home, many of us choose only to read and listen to such media that reflect the news in ways we agree with. Most of us deplore this, but are so easily drawn into it. Only we, individually, can change it for the better.

The Apostle, Peter, wrote in one his letters: “All of you, live in harmony with one another.” He didn’t say to live in harmony just with people that we like and agree with, but, he says, all of you.

This advice is as good and necessary now as it was then. He goes on to say not to get involved in slanging matches about our differences, rather to live in harmony. It is at the heart of the Christian message … often ignored, with dreadful consequences, as history has proved.

It emphasises the need for each of us to listen and share our thinking with those with whom we disagree and not cut ourselves off. We may not end up agreeing on everything, but we will then actually understand.

CHANGING FOR THE BETTER

with Transition Keynsham

Why

insect decline matters

THE charity Butterfly Conservation runs a Big Butterfly Count every year. If you’re reading this before August 5, you can help them get a better idea of the state of the nation’s butterflies and moths.

The count requires you to sit in your garden for 15 minutes and record any butterflies or moths you see (there’s a handy identification guide on their website), before uploading your findings.

Insects, including butterflies, are a canary in the coalmine when it comes to the state of the natural world. Eighty per cent of butterflies have declined since the 1970s, and one leading entomologist thinks that the wider insect population has declined by 90-95% in the last century.

That’s truly shocking, considering how much we rely on insects to pollinate food, like oilseed rape, tomatoes and strawberries. So many other species of birds and mammals rely on insects as food, so there’s bound to be a decline in them too.

When I did the Big Butterfly Count, I saw just one butterfly. That’s very unusual in my messy,

wildlife-friendly garden. This year’s cold, wet spring has undoubtedly affected butterfly numbers, but it’s only a small part of the story. Climate change and biodiversity loss are the bigger story.

There are already encouraging signs that the new government intends to take the nature and climate emergencies seriously, such as changing the rules on neonicotinoids (insecticides that kill bees).

We can all do our bit. Nature thrives in the forgotten, quiet corners in our countryside, towns and cities. Even a window box with flowering plants on a city street can provide succour for a hungry bee.

If you have a garden, leave some bits wild and cut holes in fences to allow small mammals to range across the suburban landscape. Tell your local councillors to leave verges uncut and stop using pesticides.

And if you have 15 minutes on or before August 4, get outside and record those butterflies. https://bigbutterflycount.butterflyconservation.org/

Liz Barling

KEYNSHAM WALKERS ARE WELCOME

WE took the Dial-A-Ride bus and cars for a journey down to Greyfield Woods, High Littleton, on Sunday July 14. Once again the weather was just perfect for walking, not too hot, not too cold and not a spot of rain in sight.

We started the five-mile circular walk from the public car park at the entrance of this woodland, which is one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in Somerset and originally the site of Greyfield Colliery, which once produced up to 60,000 tonnes of coal a year.

The woods are cared for by members and volunteers of the Woodland Trust and, depending on the time of the year that you visit, your senses will be aroused by the smells, sights and sounds of the flora and fauna you encounter.

The group of over 20 walkers then took the downward sloping path left of the entrance gate. This meandered along a well cared-for gravel and stone pathway, until a pathway crossroads was met.

Taking the path to the left, the group continued down to the next gate, where we crossed a narrow stretch of open meadowland. Crossing a small bridge and going through a metal gate beyond the southern boundary of the main wood, the group were then able to take a small track to visit the top of an enchanting waterfall that rushes down over moss-covered rocks.

Moving further into this section of the woods and traversing a narrow bridge offered us the chance to visit a popular picnic spot, set beside

Perfect day for a walk in the woods

The group then retraced their steps towards the meadow, but instead of crossing it, they took a north-westerly path following a small stream.

A mile and bit along the path, the group crossed the river via another wooden bridge into

the meadow and back into the main woodland. A leisurely stroll took the group on an upward path to an open spot, with a couple of benches, where a refreshment break was taken.

After a short rest, the group took their time, walking through the woods, which were alive with birds song, on well cared-for pathways back to the car park.

a shallow, wide section of stream where children can often be seen paddling and playing on the rope swing that hangs from a large tree.

Stop Fussing POETRY CORNER

What a fuss we tend to make

When things don’t go our way. The little things that matter notWe let them spoil our day!

Forgetting all the positives

When things don’t go just right, We hone in on the negatives

And all seems worse at night. It sometimes takes a big event

To make us see the light, Then realise that much fretting Will never help our plight.

So next time when we tend to sink

Let’s set our sights up high.

Instead of feeling down, cheer upControl that doleful sigh.

And remember, when a time is dark Look to the sky above, Our Saviour’s always there to help, Surrounding us with love.

Sylvia Kirby

SNIPPETS

Scenes from Keynsham life

Two, or maybe three, teenagers were playing badminton over the empty crossroad outside our house on Sunday afternoon, stepping out of the way whenever cars drove past (benefit of 20mph limits).

They were hidden from view by the hedge. Remember Mr Thompson of the old Cadbury’s advert, collecting the toys that flew over the fence into his garden and throwing them back?

‘Where’s the shuttlecock gone?’

‘Here. Second serve!’

‘Car!’ … (pause)

‘Okay ... second serve. Second serve!’

Eventually they really did lose the shuttlecock; later that evening we found it in the road. Perhaps a neighbour had found it in their garden and thrown it back for them.

Isaac Glynn

n NEWS

Caravan stolen

A CARAVAN was stolen from the driveway of a home on Bath Road, Saltford, between 4pm and 5pm on Saturday July 20.

If you have any information regarding this incident, especially CCTV images, please call the police on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5224190849, and ask that the call is tagged as Neighbourhood Watch.

n NEWS

THE distraction of English football and the unreliability of our summer weather failed to stop Keynsham Music Festival from staging another triumphant event.

A week of music and comedy gigs at various venues culminated in a Family Festival in the Memorial Park on July 6, the same day that England were facing Switzerland at Euro 2024.

But festival chair Mike May said: “This year’s festival was another great success despite some challenging weather conditions and the little matter of an important

Festival stages another park hit

football match on the festival Saturday! It’s always great to see the community come together to support the festival and obviously enjoy everything we have put on.”

Among the new attractions was a Youth Stage, with festival organisers working with local schools and colleges to showcase more than 20 young performers. The festival also played host to a large number of students who wanted first-hand experience of working behind the scenes.

Mike added: “Given the high river levels, it was deemed to be too dangerous to hold the annual

Lions duck races, so we designed an alternative river in the middle of the park. It was so successful it is very likely to become the norm from now on.”

Those who attended the free events on the main weekend were asked to make donations towards running costs.

Mike said: “We have yet to complete the balancing of the books but it looks as though we will be making a small loss.

“This is mostly due to the poor weather but is also a reflection of the economic climate we find ourselves in.”

l Photos by Colin Rayner

n KEYNSHAM IN BLOOM

Warm welcome to our Pocket Park!

WE had the privilege of welcoming South West in Bloom judges Su and Martin to Keynsham on July 19 to inspect our work and give advice where required.

The judging route started at 10.30am and ended with a 2pm lunch at the MakeSpace room off Temple Street on one of the hottest days of the year so far. Thankfully, we kept bottles of water on the Dial A Ride bus that took us around the route.

The RHS theme for this year was Friendship, and Somerdale Shed made us nine lovely wooden flowers that were painted by Keynsham In Bloom volunteers, with words of kindness written in the centre and displayed in the station gardens. Great team effort.

The flower containers and gardens at the station are lush and colourful and were also judged by GWR on Wednesday July 17.

The Pocket Park needs a good revamp as it’s overgrown with hardy geraniums, and with this in mind, our volunteers are meeting

on August 3 at 10am to start working on their removal.

We do not throw them away but divide and repot for other areas of Keynsham. If you can spare an hour to help with the removal of these plants, please contact me at catherinemarywoodman@gmail. com or pop into Keynsham Town Council with your contact details.

We would love to see you.

The Memorial Crown in the park is in full flower thanks to Lin, and the Triangle opposite Poundland is progressing along nicely as a long-term project with great effort from Phil.

The High Street containers are looking colourful and will continue to thrive if plants stay in place and

Visiting the Pocket Park are (from left) KIB volunteers Jenny and Sarah, South West in Bloom judges Su and Martin, and KIB chair Mary Woodman

Above, the Pocket Park’s fairy garden

don’t disappear! Hanging baskets and troughs on the railings over the river look beautiful.

Alpine tubs at Holmoak, Chandag and Queens Road are looking pretty, and Keynsham in Bloom thank all of you who trim and water them in this hot weather. Stay safe, well and keep gardening. Mary Woodman

This advertisement is supported by The Edward Gostling Foundation

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Our Goldies sessions are fun social groups aimed at older isolated adults, where people come together to sing- along to the popular memory evoking music of the 50s onwards, stretch, smile and laugh. These uplifting daytime sessions bring joy and offer all important opportunities for people to create supportive friendships and links to their local community It is important to understand that ‘Goldies’ is NOT a choir, our sessions are based on fun times where singing is at the heart, but smiling is the reason.

“I wanted to grab the atmosphere of fun and friendship and bring it to older isolated people through daytime ‘singalongs’ of the memory-evoking hits of the 60s and onwards ”

Please contact Emma at the Goldies ofﬁce on 01761 470006 or email emma@golden-oldies.org.uk. www.golden-oldies.org.uk

Senshu Flukes in action at the UK championships

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SING &

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SESSIONS ACROSS B&NES

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Full training and all equipment will be provided, own transportation essential

Our leaders work on a voluntary basis or are paid freelance at £25 per session plus mileage allowance

“Goldies brings joy and makes a positive dif ference to 100s of vulnerable older people’s lives across England and Wales.”

Patron

- Sir Cliff Richard, OBE

The Golden-Oldies Charity, more fondly referred to as ‘Goldies’, was founded by Bath-based musician Grenville Jones in 2007 For many years Grenville had built a reputation as one of the UK’s foremost choir leaders and had learnt first-hand of the positive social effects of singing in a choir or a music group

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.

Editor’s note: Our first three letters are in response to a bus passenger’s suggestion (reported in last month’s Voice) that the First Bus number 39 service should travel through Keynsham once an hour instead of going along the bypass.

Bus link needed

As a Keynsham resident on the Manor Road estate, the only way to ensure a bus into Bath is to travel to Ellsbridge Close bus stop in order to catch the direct First Bus 39 which comes through the bypass, although it is possible to get the Air Decker A4 at the Talbot. Unfortunately, from the Wellsway, the only way is to get the 522 bus to the New Inn and cross over to the Talbot.

Once upon a lifetime we had our local runaround bus, the 633, which enabled people to get to the Talbot at a particular time to get the A4. We also had First Bus number 19.

The 522 is also only once an hour, but it does not connect the timing with the A4. A First Bus 39, if timed correctly, would then be available with the A4, with only one half-an-hour wait maximum.

I have to travel to the RUH quite a frequently and I find it very inconvenient we only have a Keynsham-to-Bath connection once an hour, with no other alternative. As a registered disabled person, I cannot walk all the way down to the Talbot.

Not everyone has a car, and with the clean air zone in Bath it is impossible to take a car even if you can get a parking place.

Thanking your paper for some consideration to this problem for Keynsham residents.

Mrs Eileen Jones

X39 is the answer

I agree with the suggestion, made in the July Issue of the Voice, that the X39 bus route diverts a bus once an hour through Keynsham. Perhaps it could run a bus on the half hour opposite to the Air Decker’s hourly bus. This might help to provide a better servicee for the public.

Brenda Barrington, Saltford Service is a disgrace

Regarding your article about the A4 bus, I have cancer and I only have the A4 bus to go to the RUH for treatment.

The service is a disgrace and should be looked into as soon as possible. The buses have been

running very late, and I need to catch a bus an hour of more before my appointment.

I wrote to my MP and the bus company, but nothing was done.

Why does the X39 run so many buses along the bypass? Surely one could run through Keynsham at a different time to the A4 to give us more time to get to Bath.

I am an OAP so this is the only way I can get to Bath as I can’t afford taxis at £20 a time.

Mr G.P. Archer, Keynsham

Baffling decision

I have always found it baffling why a commercial bus company runs a daytime service bypassing the largest town on its route during the day, but stopping in the town in the evenings.

So I wrote to Metro Mayor Dan Norris suggesting, with an election in which he was standing imminent, diverting one X39 per hour through the town would: 1) double access to Bath and increase that to Bristol significantly, 2) cost virtually nil, and 3) be a popular, positive, free, vote winner. Apparently, he can’t help. So much for change!

Greg Bryan, Keynsham Editor’s note: We approached Dan Norris for comment on this letter but had not received a reply by the time the Voice went to press.

Dual role benefit

The election of Dan Norris as our new MP in addition to his existing WECA Mayor role brings the alignment of national government, regional mayor and MP, creating a unique opportunity for coordinated action.

Let us encourage him to use his dual role, to work to significantly improve the transport infrastructure in the area, thus providing us with the greater frequency and reliability of services required to encourage us to reduce our reliance on cars.

From their recent consultation exercise on Active Travel initiatives, it is clear that BANES Council is also keen to progress along these lines (albeit their proposals appear to be rather vague at this stage).

To add even greater weight, Wera Hobhouse in Bath, Carla Denyer in Bristol Central and Green-run Bristol City Council provide us with a massive and supportive body for change.

The climate crisis demands that we make progress quickly. Let’s have an informed, intelligent and

respectful debate about solutions for the benefit of all.

David Leverton, Chewton Keynsham

A job too many

David Whalley (Letters, July issue) raises an important point regarding Dan Norris’s two jobs, especially as WECA, under Mr Norris’s leadership, has received an inappropriately named “Best Value Notice” from the Government.

A Best Value Notice isn’t a ‘well done’ letter, it’s actually a Things Must Get Better Letter, requiring improvement or a ‘do this before we take further action’ letter.

Say what you will about Jacob Rees-Mogg (and I have said a lot), but he was a very effective constituency MP.

Despite the euphoria around Labour’s victory, don’t expect us to accept a second-rate replacement, especially someone who reckons he can do two full-time jobs at public expense and doesn’t seem to notice that he’s already not doing one properly.

Paul Sims, Keynsham

n NEWS Home raided and van taken

A HOME in St Clement’s Road, Keynsham, was burgled at about 3.45am on Saturday July 6.

The offenders smashed the back door to gain entry and ransacked the kitchen area. It is believed that they didn’t go upstairs and it is unknown what, if anything, has been stolen as the car keys and vehicles were still there.

The reference number for this crime is 5224175472.

l A 68-plate white Ford Transit was stolen from Trescothick Close, Keynsham, between 8pm and 8.30pm on Friday July 5.

All the tools in the van were also stolen. The reference number for this crime is 5224174260.

l If you have any information regarding these incidents, especially CCTV images, please call the police on 101 and give the call handler the relevant reference number, and ask that the call is tagged as Neighbourhood Watch.

n WHAT'S ON

Monday August 5

n RBLWS at RBL Club starting 8pm, admission £2. A guest speaker from the Children’s Hospice South West showing short videos of the children and families they help.

Wednesday August 14

n RBL Women’s Section’ cream tea, 2pm-4pm, in the upstairs function room of the Royal British Legion Club, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2JA. Although no lift is available, some people who are unable to access the stairs can be accommodated at a few tables in the lounge. Event includes raffle, tombola and craft items to buy.

Saturday August 31

n Farmborough Flower Show, Memorial Hall, BA2 0AH, 2.30pm. Entry £1, children free, refreshments available. Further details 07866 193 911.

Tuesday September 17

n Chew Valley Choral Society taster session. Open to singers with or without experience of choral singing. Bishop Sutton Village Hall, BS39 5XQ, 7.30pm. Free. Details: https://www.chewvalleychoral.org. uk/taster-session

REGULAR EVENTS

Mondays

n Saltford Whist Club, Saltford Hall. Monday afternoons 1.30pm-4pm. Contact Malcolm 01225 872555.

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

n Keynsham 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

Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

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/Fridays

Email us at: news@keynshamvoice.co.uk or call us on 0117 908 2121/ 07715 770448

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

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

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.

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

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.

voice choir of singers from across the Chew Valley and beyond. We sing classical choral music from the Renaissance to the 21st century with performances (often in St Johns, Keynsham) in November/ December and April/May.Details: https://www.chewvalleychoral. org.uk

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 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. All abilities welcomed to this friendly club. 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.

Thursdays

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 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 Keynsham & Saltford Dementia Action Alliance runs Music for the Mind sessions for people living with dementia and their carers. St We would love to publicise your event

n Chew Valley Choral Society rehearses in Bishop Sutton Village Hall, BS39 5XQ, 7.30pm- 9.30pm, from September to May. We are a friendly non-auditioned mixed-

n WHAT'S ON

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.

Saturdays

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.

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.

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.

Choir seeks new voices

CHEW Valley Choral Society is a friendly choir which has been rehearsing and performing in the Chew Valley for nearly 50 years, most recently under the direction of David Bednall, a choral conductor and composer known both locally and nationally.

In September, the choir’s Tuesday rehearsals will be moving to Bishop Sutton Village Hall, which is situated on the A368. There is good access from many areas of the Chew Valley and beyond.

Rehearsals start on September 10 for the next concert, which will be on November 30 in St Andrews, Chew Magna. It will feature pieces by Mozart, Saint-Saëns and Chilcott.

The choir always welcomes new members and on September 17 will be holding a ‘taster session’. This will be free of charge and open to singers of all levels of experience of choral singing, to give them an opportunity to see if they would like to join the choir.

Details: https://www. chewvalleychoral.org.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Featherbed celebrates 38 years

FEATHERBED Homecare Agency is celebrating 38 years in business.

Founded by Sally Carpenter in 1986 as Featherbed Nanny Agency from her home in Featherbed Lane, Clutton, the company changed direction after the recession in the 1990s from nannies to carers.

Now, still under Sally’s ownership, Featherbed Homecare and its sister company Featherbed Care provide only live-in care services to people who wish to stay in their own homes with a private live-in carer.

The company has purposely stayed small throughout the years, enabling everyone to know each other well and be able to provide the very best care and support.

Finding the right carer is the most important factor and we are fortunate to have many excellent carers who have been

with the agency for a long time.

Our fully trained and experienced carers help people with different kinds of conditions and illnesses, such as MS, Parkinson’s, motor neurone disease, strokes, and cancer.

One service close to Sally Carpenter’s heart is palliative care, supporting someone at the end of their life in the secure and familiar surroundings of their own home.

We are like one big family, which is how we will continue.

Unlike some other agencies, we have close and regular contact with all our clients and carers.

We will continue to do everything possible to give our clients an excellent, friendly, and affordable service.

Our sister company Featherbed Care is registered with the Care Quality Commission

n SALTFORD SCOUTS

Enjoying the sunshine and showers!

1st SALTFORD Beavers ended their scouting year with a walk from Saltford to Kelston Round Hill.

This is a very popular walk for all our age groups, and the views from the top are stunning. All young people earn a Hikes Away staged badge for each hike. They are available for one, two, five, 10, 15, 20, 35 and 50 hikes.

They also had a camp preparation day where they learned to put up tents and cook on an open fire.

Our Cubs’ activities last month included storming a castle to celebrate Bastille Day and the Olympics in Paris. There were lots

of teamwork games, with Tigers and Wolves competing against each other. Wide games were held in the woods, using a map to navigate them. Kayaking on the river included making their promises on the water. One of their last activities was a cycle ride through the Two Tunnels in Bath.

Tuesday Tigers nominated the charity Team Seas to raise money for by competing in penalty kicks. They had a fun evening of football, Quidditch and hockey penalty kicks, followed by a version of rugby penalties. They raised £257 for the charity and received a thank-you

certificate - well done Tigers! Wednesday Wolves nominated Team Trees and held triathalon-type events including running, kayaking and cycling. We don’t have the total raised yet as they are still collecting it in.

Our great leaders run a variety of sessions for our young people, providing them with lots of fun while they learn skills for life. Leaders and adult volunteers also gain valuable skills.

If you are interested in your child joining our waiting list, or interested in volunteering yourself, then we would love to hear from you. Please email saltfordscoutgroup@gmail.com

BOOKS OF THE MONTH

Adult Fiction

The Dying Day

Vaseem Khan

This is the second book in the series featuring DI Persis Wadia, India’s only woman detective.

The Shining Stephen

King

Alfie. Many funny things happen along the way until true friendship shines through.

I Lost My Granny in the Supermarket

In post-Independence Bombay in 1950, Persis is on a mission to prove she can run an investigation in a male-dominated world. Along with her English forensic scientist Archie Blackfinch and her team from the Malabar House Police Station, she must solve a series of riddles before she can track down a killer.

It begins with the apparent theft of a 600-year-old copy of Dante’s The Divine Comedy from Bombay’s Asiatic Society. Then an English woman’s body is found by a railway track. Are these incidents connected in some way?

This is a thoroughly entertaining crime read. The setting is fascinating, and the twist towards the end is a good one.

Adult Non-Fiction

The Wager

A tale of shipwreck, mutiny and murder

David Grann

reviewed by Emilie Bioud, Keynsham Library assistant

In 1740, England is at war with Spain. To ensure the nation’s supremacy, the English send a fleet of seven boats across the oceans.

Their mission? Catch a Spanish galleon that is supposed to have on board the biggest treasure of all.

The Wager is one of the boats, but her crew is decimated by scurvy and the vessel isn’t fit to face the cruel Cape Horn. Shipwreck is inevitable. Some of the men survive and make it to on an isolated island. Who will come back to tell the tale?

David Grann shares a fantastic story that captivated the public of the time. It is gripping - I couldn’t put it down.

Two students from Wellsway School - Nick and Sam, both 15 – have been completing their work experience at Keynsham Library. Here are two of their reading recommendations.

Dread Wood

Jennifer Killick

I have chosen a novel based off Crater Lake in Oregon. It was meant to be a peaceful school trip but soon descends into a perfect blend of confusing mysteries, epic thrills and moments of horror throughout the story.

Jennifer Killick has written the whole series of Dread Wood, one you’d love to complete once you read this brilliantly executed, gripping Crater Lake. (Sam)

I have chosen to write about this classic horror story from 1977 inspired the blockbuster film of the same name starring Jack Nicholson. The novel has an unsettling horror atmosphere that is perfectly poised throughout. The setting is a secluded mountain hotel in Colorado with a dark past, occupied by the psychotic caretaker and his family. Trapped by snow and paranoia, the family slowly descends into a terrifying struggle that ends unpredictably. (Nick).

The popular Summer Reading Challenge continues at Keynsham Library. Come and join us for the challenge of reading six books over the summer holidays and collect your challenge card! This year the theme is Marvelous Makers. Why not try the following?

Children’s Fiction

Runaway Robot

Frank Cottrell-Boyce

Jo Simmons

This book is dedicated to all groovy grannies!

Harry thinks that looking after his Granny one day will be easy – just don’t let her eat any toffees, says his Mum, because they make her go “funny”.

Eric is six-foot tall, likes to sing, is super polite but he is a little rusty and his hand keeps dropping off. Yes, Eric is a robot – a little bit old but super strong. He meets Alfie at an airport, and soon mischief and adventure follow.

My favourite passage is when Alfie says to Eric “let’s catch the bus” and Eric takes the command literally, forcing a bus to a stop and grabbing its bumper to take to

But Granny has to go to the Caught Short Awards to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award and needs a new outfit and to have her hair done. Everyone else is too busy, so Harry has to accompany Granny. So of course, following a trip to the supermarket, Granny eats a toffee.

Follow all the marvellous mayhem that includes a stolen wallaby, lots of loo roll and a missing Granny. A hilarious read.

Library news

Joining the library costs nothing, so pop in or visit www.librarieswest. org.uk to 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

with Judith Thomas from Keynsham Library

Debbie Robin Bridget Shane Gemma

Lynne

Tracey

Stacey

Jamie Vicki

SALTFORD

£1,250,000

This attractive double-bay-fronted detached house originally dates from the 1950s and has been subject to significant extensions and refurbishment in recent years.

It offers superb family accommodation arranged across three floors, beautifully presented throughout and finished to a high standard.

The property is complimented by a detached self-contained two-storey two-bedroom annexe and is set in a large level plot extending to more than a quarter of an acre, with electric gates leading from the Bath Road to an extensive parking and turning area.

There are level gardens to the front and rear, with the rear boasting an enviable southerly aspect and comprising a lawned garden and paved terrace.

Arrange your viewing with Davies & Way on 01225 400 400

STORAGE

STORAGE / SELF STORE

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REMOVALS

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KEYNSHAM RUGBY CLUB

Cancer ward support

KEYNSHAM Rugby Club under-14s have raised £620 for the William Budd ward at the Royal United Hospital, Bath, which treats cancer patients.

The money was raised from scratch card sales at matches and tour fines. Throughout the season, the boys and parents were fined for all sorts of things, such as muddy boots and wrong kits. The fines continued on tour at Woolacombe, where judge Clive handed out penalties for the worst dressed, not having a beach item or arriving late.

If your son or daughter is interested in joining Keynsham Rugby, contact info@keynshamrugby.co.uk

FRY’S TENNIS CLUB

Thrilling end to campaign

WITH three matches of the Avon Tennis Summer League season left, Fry’s 1st team found themselves in a hotly contested division and in the unusual position of fighting against relegation whilst still having an outside chance of promotion.

We started July with a trip to Sommer Valley and felt fortunate to be playing on their inside courts with torrential rain outside.

Julian Hellyer and Kerry Grace put on one of their best performances of the season in a 6-3 6-2 win against a very talented pair in their first match, before following up with a 6-2 6-3 win against the Sommer Valley 2nd pair.

Mark Long and Dave Howell then battled to a 6-3 6-4 before losing a close battle to the 1st pair 6-2 7-6. An overall 8-2 win and a fantastic result on the road.

We then had a home fixture against Cotham Park, knowing a win would mean relegation would definitely be avoided. Kerry and Julian started with a hard-fought match, losing 6-7 6-1 5-7, they then had a much shorter match against the 2nd pair, winning via injury retirement after only three games.

Mark and Dave started with a 6-3 6-2 win which was much closer than the score suggested. They then found their top level against the Cotham 1st pair, winning 7-5 7-5. They had been 5-1 down in the second set before storming back to win, finishing at 9.57pm

KEYNSHAM TOWN FC

EVERYONE at Keynsham Town is looking forward to the forthcoming season with the additional a new, exciting under-18 team.

On Saturday July 20, the first team defeated a strong side from Thornbury Town 4-1, which bodes well for the year ahead. They were due to start their Jewson Western League 2024/25 campaign on Saturday July 27, away at Shirehampton.

This was to be followed by a home match at the AJN Stadium the following Tuesday, July 30 (7.45pm) versus Hallen. Then the next Saturday it’s Cheddar away, followed by home matches

with only three minutes of floodlights left to complete the match. Another excellent 8-2 win for the team.

The final match of the season saw Fry’s travel to Thornbury, knowing only a 10-0 win would be enough to secure promotion, but it wasn’t to be.

Julian and Kerry lost a close match to a strong 1st pair 7-5 6-4, before easing to a 6-3 6-3 win against the 2nd pair. Mark and Dave beat the 2nd pair 6-0 3-6 7-6. They then lost a thriller to the 1st pair 3-6 6-3 6-7.

That meant a 6-4 win, not quite enough for promotion, but the team can be pleased with their 3rd place finish.

Fry’s 2nd team started July with a home match against Bristol Central. Mark Lapham and Adrian Wilson were in excellent form, securing wins 6-2 6-0 and 6-2 6-1. Andrew Quinn and Steve Spiers then completed the rout with 6-1 6-1 and 3-6 6-1 7-6 wins, securing a 10-0 victory.

Particular well done to Andrew, who impressed everyone with his level in his debut for the team.

We then welcomed top-of-the-table Olveston & Tockington to Fry’s. Mark Lapham and Martyn Lucas were defeated by the 1st pair 7-6 6-1 but rebounded with a narrow victory against the 2nd pair 7-6 6-4. Rich and Ted Conway were defeated 6-4 5-7 7-6 and 6-3 6-3. An overall 8-2 loss.

Like the 1st team, the 2nd team also went into the final match of the season against Thornbury 3rds with an outside chance of promotion. However, they came up against an exceptionally strong team and, despite their best efforts, the team of Adrian Wilson, Mark Lapham and Andrew Quinn could only win six games across all four matches in a 10-0 loss.

Whilst they finished in 5th place, Fry’s were only 9 points off 2nd place so can be pleased with their efforts across the season. Attention now turns to our annual club tournament, which will be played over the summer.

Anyone interested in joining Fry’s tennis club should contact Tony Dicker at ard@tonydicker. co.uk.

U18 team added for new season

on August 10 against Calne Town (3pm) and Tuesday August 13 versus Cribbs Reserves (7.45pm).

The reserve team start their season in the UHL Sport Somerset County League Division One on Tuesday August 6 (7.45 pm) against Middlezoy Rovers Reserves, followed by a home game to Westfield on Saturday August 17 (2pm).

Our new under-18 side will compete in the Western Counties Floodlight Youth League for this season and kick off with a friendly away to AEK Boco on Monday August 12 at 7.45pm. The league itself will start at home on Tuesday

September 3 (7.45pm) against Almondsbury United.

The club would like to thank our local businesses for their sponsorship for the 2024/25 season, the main ones being: first team IJ McGill Transport, reserves Smart Computers and under18s Kitco. The club is offering a season ticket for £100 (£60 concessions) to cover all home league matches played by the first, reserve and under-18 teams, over 40 matches in total.

They are available by emailing tickets@keynshamtownfc.co.uk.

Mike Slucutt

Dave Howell, Kerry Grace, Mark Long and Julian Hellyer of Fry’s Tennis Club 1st team

Andrew Quinn, Martyn Lucas, Adrian Wilson and Mark Lapham of the 2nd team

BRISTOL EMPIRE DRAGONS

Paddle power adds to fun of harbour festival

BRISTOL Empire Dragons were invited to demonstrate at the Bristol Harbour Festival.

After months of preparation, we started our weekend with practice drill demonstrations followed by a few practice race sprints, the final one including a race turn around the buoys. We were introduced to the spectators by the Lord Mayor of Bristol.

On the Sunday we were stationed in the Mud Dock area running have-a-go sessions for the public. Participants learned how to hold and use the paddle, after which they took part in a short race in the demonstration arena. Around 90 people joined in, some of whom have contacted us for some more tuition.

Everyone had a fantastic weekend and all new paddlers came off the water full of smiles.

Our club is based at Saltford Rowing Centre. We train Tuesday and Thursday evening at 6.30pm, and Sunday at 9am. We are an inclusive group of fun-loving paddlers who also love to race competitively. If you would like to try out this sport, please get in touch –it’s great fun and very addictive!

Some of our members joined because they wanted to get fit but did not like the gym.

Some had struggled with various injuries and found that dragon boating didn’t aggravate them, and it sometimes even improved their symptoms. Others preferred the outdoor and team-based elements, making it a more exciting form of exercise. Email tinaclistcurtis@ googlemail.com or call 07720 353701.

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KEYNSHAM BOWLING CLUB

Our green is jewel in the crown!

THE surrounds of Keynsham Bowling Club were looking their best as we prepared for our inspection by the Keynsham in Bloom judges.

The condition of the planters and baskets is also matched by the bowling green itself, which is in superb condition, as borne out by the compliments we receive from visiting clubs. At present it really is the jewel in the crown of Keynsham Park!

There is a great deal of activity on the green, with ladies’ and gents’ league and cup matches, plus members competing against each other in internal competitions.

Whilst the ladies are unfortunately out of the Fear Cup and Southey Trophy this season, they are in the quarter finals of the Fear Plate. Plate competitions

are organised to accommodate those teams or individuals who are knocked out in the first round of the competition in which they are appearing, thus giving them the opportunity to win something.

In the Turnbull Cup, the men had a good win by 10 shots over Weston Bath but then went down by 12 shots to a good Knowle side in the next round.

In July, two of the year’s highlights take place. First there is the annual charity barbecue,

FRY’S BOWLING CLUB

which raises money for the charity chosen by the ladies’ and gents’ captains at the start of the season. This year the charity is Sense, which supports deafblind people or those with complex communication disabilities.

It was a lovely sunny Sunday when more than 80 members gathered at the club to listen to music from the Swing Jazz Project and tuck in to the food provided. The barbecue, which included a raffle, raised more than £400,

which will be added to the amount donated to Sense at the end of the season.

The second event was the annual bowls match between the ladies and the gents, when seven rinks were full of our members enjoying good-humoured fun.

The result was somewhat irrelevant, but for the record, the gents came out marginally on top. Our picture shows the combined teams.

Mike Barrow

Team returns to winning ways against local rivals

Bristol and District League:

AFTER a run of three games without a point, Fry’s Bowling Club looked to bounce back with a home match against secondplaced Keynsham ‘A’.

Fry’s got the better start on rink 2, with rinks 1 and 3 tight. After the halfway stage, Fry’s gradually pulled away on rink 1 and saw off a comeback from Keynsham on rink 2, giving Fry’s an 8-shot lead with rink 3 two ends behind.

A nervy penultimate end

saw Fry’s only drop 2 shots, with Keynsham surrounding the jack. With Fry’s 6 shots up with one to play, Keynsham put bowls in a threatening location, but Fry’s held second bowl.

With Keynsham missing the take-out with their last bowl, Fry’s sealed a 41-36 win with a much-needed 8 points. The following week was a forgettable one at Bristol St Andrews ‘A’, as the home side took a comfortable win with all 10 points, leaving Fry’s

in sixth place, 7 points above the relegation zone.

Scores:

June 20: Fry’s 51-66 Canford: Rink 1, 18-20; Rink 2, 20-25; Rink 3, 13-21 (0-10)

June 27: Fry’s 48-66 Olveston Kestrels: Rink 1, 16-17; Rink 2, 1625; Rink 3, 16-24 (0-10)

July 4: Fry’s 34-74 Henleaze ‘A’: Rink 1, 12-23; Rink 2, 9-30; Rink 3, 13-21 (0-10)

July 11: Fry’s 41-36 Keynsham ‘A’: Rink 1, 15-10; Rink 2, 20-9; Rink 3, 6-17 (8-2)

July 18: Fry’s 29-69 Bristol St Andrews ‘A’: Rink 1, 3-27; Rink 2, 11-26; Rink 3, 15-16 (0-10).

Friday Triples League:

A mixed set of results saw Fry’s only win 2 games from the last 5, but still picked up useful points. An away win at Victoria Park was followed by three straight defeats, but Fry’s picked 4 points in two of those games. Fry’s returned to winning ways with a comfortable win against Greenbank that sees Fry’s sit in the mid-table.

Scores:

June 21: Fry’s 60-36 Victoria Park (Bristol): Rink 1, 18-9; Rink 2, 20-11; Rink 3, 22-16 (12-0)

June 28: Fry’s 41-57 Page Park: Rink 1, 16-18; Rink 2, 9-16; Rink 3, 16-23 (0-12)

July 5: Fry’s 43-50 Severn Vale: Rink 1, 17-13; Rink 2, 6-21; Rink 3, 20-16 (4-8)

July 12: Fry’s 51-53 Imperial: Rink 1, 24-16; Rink 2, 17-14; Rink 3, 10-23 (4-8)

July 19: Fry’s 56-40 Bristol Greenbank: Rink 1, 13-21; Rink 2, 29-10; Rink 3, 14-9 (10-2)

Cups:

The Somerset cups proved unsuccessful as Paulton defeated Fry’s in the Turnbull Cup. A trip to Chew Stoke was next in the Wedmore Plate. After closing the deficit to a couple of shots, Chew Stoke pulled away in the closing ends. In the City and County of Bristol Clarence Davey, Olveston took a comfortable win.

Scores:

July 2: Fry’s 51-68 Paulton: Rink 1, 19-11; Rink 2, 13-16; Rink 3, 10-18; Rink 4, 9-23

July 16: Fry’s 56-66 Chew Stoke: Rink 1, 15-19; Rink 2, 15-13; Rink 3, 12-15; Rink 4, 14-19

July 22: Fry’s 42-122 Olveston: Rink 1, 13-34, Rink 2, 8-40; Rink 3, 14-22; Rink 4, 7-26.

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