March 2021
Issue 106
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Lockdown photo win for Gerda
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Green-belt land bid for roads and homes
Council purchase to avoid 'piecemeal' private development and ease traffic flow
COUNCIL bosses are set to sign off the purchase of 70 acres of green-belt land in Keynsham to speed up delivery of new roads and more than 300 homes. Documents released by Bath and North East Somerset Council say it has the opportunity to buy agricultural land that could in future form part of a wider area with space for 1,500 homes. n Turn to Page 2
Award delight for dad and daughter A Saltford Primary School pupil and her dad have won a South West sculpture award. PAGE 12
New biogas bid Waste food will be used to generate renewable energy if a facility is built in Keynsham’s green belt on the third attempt. PAGE 3
Taxi driver ban A Keynsham taxi driver who made inappropriate contact with women and used racist language has lost his livelihood. PAGE 9
Epic charity ride A Keynsham Mencap supporter took to his exercise bike to raise money for the charity. Kate Strong has made a bid for the world record books despite the lockdown: See Page 27
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March, 2021
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Keynshamvoice contacts Emma Cooper Publisher 0117 908 2121/ 07715 770448 emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk Erica Benson Advertising sales 0117 908 2121 sales@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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April deadline Our April edition will be going to print on March 29. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by Wednesday, March 24. Advertisers are asked to contact us by the same date.
Your views Letters for publication can be sent to the above email addresses or by post to Letters, Keynshamvoice, 16 Ashmead Business Centre, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.
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
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
Complaints 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. A member of the
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.
Council bid to unlock land for new housing
n From Page 1 Also proposed is infrastructure that would help alleviate traffic congestion in Keynsham, with the creation of a new link between the A4 and Avon Mill Lane, upgrades to the town’s railway station and new cycle routes. The council is set to ask the West of England Combined Authority for the funding, which would be repaid when the land is sold. A decision notice due to be signed by council leader Dine Romero and cabinet colleagues after March 1 says: “Acquiring the land will allow B&NES Council to be proactive in working with the other landowners to promote the site, unlock the land and ensure that the other landowners work in collaboration to deliver comprehensive redevelopment. “If the public sector does not intervene and allows the market to deliver, the development is likely to come forward piecemeal, with potentially lower levels of affordable housing and take considerably longer to deliver.
“It is intended to dispose of all or part of the land once planning permission is achieved and an infrastructure delivery strategy is in place. On receipt of the payment for the land, the funding will be repaid.” Due to commercial sensitivity, the exact location of the land has not been revealed, although the papers say the council already has an interest in a site within the potential development area. Its property register shows that it owns Longreach Farm, near Worlds End Lane. The council has been considering building a new garden community with around 1,500 homes in this area of north-east Keynsham for some time. If the land purchase is signed off, B&NES Council will acquire the land and share the project costs, risk and reward on a 50/50 basis with the West of England Combined Authority, which has approved the funding. Stephen Sumner Local Democracy Reporting Service
B&NES council tax to rise RESIDENTS of Bath and North East Somerset will see their council tax bills increase by more than £70 in April. The district council has decided to increase the tax by 1.99 per cent – the maximum allowed without a referendum – and charge a further three per cent that will be ringfenced to pay for adult social care. The average band D property paid the authority £1,456.88 this year, but that is expected to hit £1,529.57 in April. The coronavirus pandemic continues to have a massive impact on the council’s budget – it saved £20 million this year and is set to make another £8.5 million in cuts in 2021/22. Some of the proposed measures include a shake-up of senior management, new charges for recycling some materials and a reduced subsidy for two Bath golf courses. Councillor Richard Samuel, the cabinet member for
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resources, told scrutiny panel members on February 1: “This is not a normal budget. It’s not been a normal year, and nor will it be for the rest of this year." The administration expects to balance the budget by the end of March – but it will face pressure for years to come. Councillor Samuel said trying to save another £20 million in 2021/22 would have sent the council “into meltdown”. Instead it is set to use £11.31 million from its reserves, to be repaid over five years. The budget was signed off by full council on February 23. Council tax bills also include payments to the police, as well as the fire service and town and parish councils. l Keynsham Town Council has voted to increase its council tax precept by 2% from April. The rise means a band D household will contribute £96.70 to the town council in 2021/22, up from £93.12 – a rise of £3.58. l Extra police officers: Page 19
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Energy firm's third bid for biogas plant An anaerobic digester plant is proposed at the site of the former Queen Charlton Quarry
WASTE food and crops will be used to generate renewable energy if a facility is built in Keynsham’s green belt on the third attempt. Resourceful Energy Anaerobic Ltd (REAL) wants to build an anaerobic digester plant capable of processing 92,000 tonnes of food stock a year, and to boost biodiversity at the former Queen Charlton Quarry in Charlton Field Lane. Permission for a plant that would have processed 25,000 tonnes of material a year was originally granted in 2014 but never put into action after the then owners, Resourceful Earth Ltd, went into administration. Revised plans submitted in 2019 by Resourceful Earth Anaerobic Ltd were later withdrawn after neighbours said the smell from the site, historically used for composting, was “putrid” and made them feel “physically sick”. Concerns were also voiced about air quality, noise and transport, with claims the dozens of “juggernauts” set to visit the site each day would be a “nightmare” on the already congested roads. The firm’s website says: “REAL appreciates that there have been some concerns surrounding the possible construction and operations of the plant from the local community. “However, we want to reassure you that this is a new planning application, which also incorporates the quarry, and previous comments and concerns have been considered within the submission. “To make sure the transportation of the waste will have minimal impact on the community, we are undertaking a highly detailed environmental impact assessment to manage a
number of elements including road traffic, noise and air quality.” As in the 2019 proposals, the latest plans predict around 58 vehicle movements each day, mostly HGVs. If approved, the plant will process 92,000 tonnes of crops and food waste a year to produce biogas, both to generate electricity and supply to the local grid. The crops will come from local farmers, who will in turn be provided with a bio-fertiliser made in the process, while the food waste will be diverted from landfill. Bath and North East Somerset Council already sends the food waste it collects from residents to an anaerobic digester in Avonmouth. REAL says the storage building would be fitted with a system to ensure no odour leaves the site. Judging the 2014 application, B&NES Council officers said the limited harm to the green belt was outweighed by the “opportunities for more sustainable waste management and renewable energy”. REAL’s website says it hopes the plant will be operating by the summer of 2022. It would open daily from 6am until 6pm. l Letters: Page 22
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March, 2021
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Rapid Covid-19 test sites set to open
RAPID Covid-19 test sites are set to open in Bath and Keynsham. Bath & North East Somerset Council is opening its first site at the Apex Hotel in the city to test if key workers with no symptoms of Covid are unknowingly spreading the virus and to help them know when they need to isolate. About one in three people who have coronavirus will experience no symptoms. Rapid lateral flow testing is important in reducing the risk they pose to others. The test site will open on March 1 and will provide quick, free lateral flow tests (LFTs) for essential workers and volunteers, critical workers or people unable to work from home who don’t have symptoms. The site will be open from 7am to 7pm, Monday to Saturday. Bookings must be made online, up to two weeks in advance, via https://beta. bathnes.gov.uk/rapid-test
Keynsham Masonic Hall is set to host rapid Covid-19 tests Testing is by appointment only and the site is not a walk-in centre. The test process including registration on arrival takes around 15 minutes and results are sent by text or email, usually within one hour. The council will soon be announcing details of two additional rapid Covid-19 test sites planned to open at the Keynsham Masonic Hall in Bath Road on March 8 and the
Centurion Hotel in Midsomer Norton on March 10. Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “Rapid testing is a vital tool in helping to break the chain of transmission of the virus. “About one in three people who have the virus display no symptoms so they could easily be spreading it to others without knowing.
“The rapid Covid-19 test site will prioritise identifying the virus in people who cannot work from home and who have to be in contact with colleagues and the public in order to provide frontline services to our community. “It’s important that this sector of workers takes a test weekly to prevent the spread. “The tests are quick, free and easy to use, so please don’t hesitate in booking yourself an appointment. “Even if test results are negative, there’s a chance that you could still be carrying the virus, so we should all continue to act like we’ve got it to protect our health and that of others.” The Apex Hotel is in James Street West, Bath, BA1 2DA. Please do not contact the hotel or Keynsham Masonic Hall directly with rapid flow testing enquiries. All council updates on coronavirus can be found at https://beta.bathnes.gov.uk/ coronavirus
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March, 2021
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New recycling centre ready for 2023 KEYNSHAM’S new state-of-theart recycling centre is set to open to the public in 2023. Plans to expand the Pixash Lane facility and future-proof it for the next 40 years have been submitted by Bath and North East Somerset Council. The four-hectare site will feature a recycling centre, a shop for upcycling unwanted items, an MOT centre and an education centre, all open to the public. There will also be a wide range of behind-the-scenes functions for sorting waste, street cleansing and park maintenance that are currently spread across Keynsham and Bath. Keynsham East councillor Hal MacFie said: “We have secured a commitment from B&NES Council that a new amenity site in Bath will open before the current Bath site at Midland Road closes in 2023, so Bath residents will not need to bring their recycling and refuse to Pixash in the meantime.” The new Pixash Lane facility
Vision of the future: How the new recycling centre will look will bring together behindthe-scenes council functions spread across Midland Road and Locksbrook Road in Bath and Ashmead Road in Keynsham, including recycling, vehicle maintenance and street cleansing. The plans say: “The proposed new consolidated depot forms an integral part of a district-wide strategy to meet current and
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future predicted needs over a minimum 40-year time horizon.” Traffic regularly queues down Pixash Lane to reach Keynsham’s current recycling centre and its compact nature does not allow for a quick turnaround. The plans propose new traffic control measures for access to the site. Large lorries will be required to approach via the Broadmead Lane roundabout
and Ashmead industrial estate, rather than the Pixash Lane junction on the A4 Bath Road. The largest lorries carrying waste and recycling away for treatment and reprocessing will travel onto the bypass and ring road for the most direct route to the M4, avoiding residential areas. As part of the scheme, the council is also planning to move to electric/hydrogen collection lorries, as part of tackling the climate emergency and reducing the impact of traffic on air quality. It will also include investment in ecological improvements such as natural meadow areas and hedgerow planting at off-site locations such as Keynsham Memorial Park and other locations yet to be agreed. B&NES Council will decide the fate of its application. It expects construction work to start later this year. Stephen Sumner Local Democracy Reporting Service
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March, 2021
Caring businesses BUSINESSES in Keynsham have been serving up helpings of kindness to support local people in these difficult times. Among them is the Crown Inn on the Bristol Road, owned by David Yeomans and Luke Skinner. The pub started free meals for children three years ago and has recently been providing hot school lunches from 12pm-2pm Monday to Friday. David said: “We’re keeping it going while the schools are closed. Based on donations, we are OK for the next few weeks thanks to the community helping to keep it funded.” People have been donating to the initiative through Fundsurfer. A total of £1,795 had been given as the Voice went to press. David added: “We do a minimum of 100 meals a day but can do 200. Around 800 to 1,000 meals a week is our average. We list what is available daily for people to see on Facebook.” The meals are available to Above, staff at Cinnamon restaurant making meals for RUH staff Left, free food served up for children by the Crown Inn Right, the Fundsurfer page set up to support the Crown Inn's initiative
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anyone. Donations are welcome but not necessary. Anyone who wishes to donate can go to www. fundsurfer.com and search for ‘Crown Inn Keynsham’ Meanwhile, Cinnamon restaurant on the High Street has been delivering hot food to staff at the intensive care unit (ICU) at the Royal United Hospital in Bath. Owner Ami Rahman said that Cinnamon has been delivering meals to doctors, nurses and support staff on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “Over the shift, we make sure every at ICU has a good healthy meal, so they can do their jobs and focus. We’re getting great feedback.” The restaurant has also provided school lunches, and meals to families struggling financially because of furlough or job losses. “We have taken a very proactive role during the pandemic. The most important thing for us is managing to survive as a business and helping people.” Cinnamon also participates in the Billy Chip scheme. The chip is a £2 token that customers can buy and which homeless people can then use to obtain a hot takeaway from any participating outlet. Ami said the restaurant’s suppliers have also helped by donating ingredients for free meals. He said that the best way people can help Cinnamon’s efforts is by being customers themselves. “Customers are coming in and supporting the business,” he said. The Temple Street Canteen is also doing its bit to help feed those in need. Owner Cat Midgley said: “When
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serve up kindness
we are open, we provide meals and coffee for anyone in need through our ‘suspended menu’, which we like to call our ‘kindness menu’. This works by people ordering and paying for a ‘kindness item’, which can then be redeemed by someone in need. “We also offer free jacket potatoes for children. These are offered with a choice of tuna mayo or beans and cheese, with peas on the side and a juice carton. These are still available and prepared to order while we’re closed. Call 0117 3293850 or send a message to our Facebook page. “We are currently providing an average of 10 kids’ meals a week but have availability to offer more.” Before lockdown, the canteen was also home to the Keynsham Community Fridge, which enabled fresh food to be stored and shared rather than being thrown away. Cat said: “Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions and many of their volunteers being in vulnerable categories, the community fridge is not currently
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running. During the time it was running last year, they “rescued” several tonnes of food from local supermarkets that would otherwise have ended up in landfill. The food is available for anyone in the community and it was certainly an invaluable resource for many local people who have been unexpectedly affected by the pandemic. “As I understand, the management committee for the fridge intend to start running the initiative as soon as restrictions allow. People can keep up to date with information regarding this through the fridge Facebook page and our own Facebook and Instagram.” Customers who want to support the canteen can buy a kindness item from the counter, when it is open. It also takes direct donations for the children’s jacket potatoes, as well as donations of fresh produce. For more details, contact the canteen through its Facebook page.
Cat Midgley, owner of Temple Street Canteen, with an overgrown courgette donated by a generous Saltford grower. Also pictured is Fiona Edwards of the Keynsham Community Fridge team
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March, 2021
NEWS
Fairies bring fun to park A TRAIL of fairy doors has been delighting children visiting Keynsham’s Memorial Park. The 14 doors that have appeared in the trees at the upper playground are the work of Keynsham mum Vicky Burford. Vicky said: “I know some other people have been placing them down by the river. I thought it would be a fun, safe way for children and families to engage with nature and exercise during lockdown. People really seem to be enjoying it.” Thank you Vicky for bringing a smile to families’ faces!
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March, 2021
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Taxi driver's licence revoked following racism complaints A KEYNSHAM taxi driver who made inappropriate contact with women and used “abhorrent” racist language has lost his livelihood after 30 years in the profession. In 2016 the unnamed driver, who also covered Midsomer Norton, used a customer’s contact details to find her on social media and started calling persistently when she stopped responding. He was advised to do everything in his power to avoid another complaint, but in 2019 another woman complained he was “inappropriate, just a bit creepy” when he tracked her down to her workplace to return a lost phone and insisted on handing it over personally. Bath and North East Somerset Council’s licensing subcommittee meeting in December heard that the driver also made racist comments on three occasions in less than a year, the minutes show. In one incident he allegedly told a woman of colour that Black Lives Matter protests were irrelevant and would not change anything, and that “those who were subject to racism in the UK deserved it”. The subcommittee heard that he used a racist term “comfortably”, and described his comments as “abhorrent”. In March last year the driver allegedly blamed Chinese people for the coronavirus pandemic “because they eat bats”, upsetting his Chinese passengers. In the third he commented about “English drivers”. He denied making racist and inappropriate comments but the subcommittee considered the witnesses more credible. It voted to revoke his privatehire operator’s licence, having previously resolved in October to strip him of his combined Hackney carriage/private-hire driver’s licence. But Councillor Steve Hedges voiced concerns about the process at the licensing committee’s meeting last month. He said: “When these people
have their licences revoked, if they choose to appeal, which I know one has, it’s quite possible they can carry on driving for a full year or more. “That really concerns me, especially if it’s someone putting people in danger. “If it’s a serious case, like at least one of the ones we dealt with in the last few months, when you revoke a licence they shouldn’t be allowed to drive, even if they are appealing, until the appeal. Otherwise, how many more people are going to be put in danger?” Deputy legal adviser CarrieAnn Evans said if the committee decides a driver is “no longer fit and proper” it can immediately revoke the licence, but that is reserved for the most serious cases. She said: “It might be an incident of child sexual exploitation or where someone has a medical condition which immediately renders them unfit to be driving. “Alternatively you have the option of revocation with notice. If the driver submits an appeal to the magistrates court within the prescribed period, they are permitted to continue driving while their appeal is determined.” Councillor Manda Rigby said: “Our taxi driver community within Bath and North East Somerset largely sticks by the rules and largely goes above and beyond in terms of helping and trying to be the best ambassadors for the area, as well as being generally very fit and proper to ply their trade. “Revocation is the nuclear option where we think that nothing else can serve.” Councillor Rigby asked for assurance that ,if a revocation is appealed, it is dealt with quickly so there is not a long delay when people can carry on driving. She also said if a licence is revoked, that information needs to be shared with other authorities. The council is joining a national database to allow that to happen.
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Local Apprentice Opportunities Plummet “MUST DO BETTER”: is the message from Labour’s Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris who has condemned the Conservative West of England Metro Mayor for failing on apprenticeships. Latest figures show that during the current Metro Mayor’s term of office the number of new apprenticeships in the West of England has plummeted. There are 1630 fewer in South Gloucestershire, North East Somerset, Bristol and Bath than when the Tory Mayor came to power. The Metro Mayor is responsible for apprenticeship cash and policy but around 65% of small businesses across the West of England have never used apprentices. Dan Norris said “Apprenticeship opportunities in the West of England are at their lowest level in 5 years. That’s not good enough. The Metro Mayor is failing to create the opportunities local young people need. Investing in training will be central to rebuilding our economy after the pandemic. If elected I will be a ‘jobs first’ Metro Mayor.”
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KEYNSHAM MEMORIES
March, 2021
with Keynsham & Saltford Local History Society
•
KEYNSHAM Livestock Market was on the Bath Road, next to the Talbot, on the site now occupied by Homeavon House. As well as local butchers, there were also regular buyers from Bristol and Bath. The final day of business was 29th December 1975 and the main picture shows a group taking an interest in a calf about to be led to the pens. If you used to attend the market, you might remember the refreshment hut (pictured above) – a good place for a mug of tea on a cold morning. Photos from the Russell Leitch Collection
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NEWS
Amid all the uncertainty around at the moment, nature never fails to put on a show this time of year. Michael Trotman took these pictures of snowdrops and crocuses in his garden.
Row over airport expansion REGIONAL bosses have been criticised for refusing to oppose the expansion of Bristol Airport. Bristol City Council and Bath and North East Somerset Council have both come out against plans to boost passenger numbers to 12 million a year, with only South Gloucestershire in favour. But B&NES Council leader Dine Romero was unable to convince her colleagues in the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) to make its position clear at a behind-closed-doors meeting ahead of a public inquiry. Opponents of the airport’s plans – rejected last year by North Somerset Council, which is not a member of Weca – say the regional partnership clearly came out in favour of the expansion, but it insists it gave no such endorsement. A spokesperson said: “The combined authority responded to the original planning application with a technical response in our role as a neighbouring local transport authority. This has not changed, and the combined authority will not be making any further statements during the planning process.” That technical response said: “The UK Government is currently developing a new aviation strategy to 2050, which supports maximisation of regional airport runway capacity to accommodate forecast growth in air passenger numbers. “Within this context, the West of England Combined Authority (Weca) supports in principle the expansion of Bristol Airport.” It said the transport hub’s growth would help the economy grow, cut the need for residents to
Bristol Airport's vision of expansion will be the subject of a public inquiry in July travel long distances to other airports, and attract investment. Weca scrutiny committee chairman and Bristol green councillor Steve Clarke said that was a “pretty clear endorsement” of the expansion bid. He said: “There is absolutely no mention by Weca of the negative effects of the proposed expansion, including a million tonnes of extra CO2 equivalent gases a year into the high atmosphere, 10,000 extra car journeys a day, a new multistorey car park on green-belt land and many extra summertime night flights.” Councillor Clarke said it was “the biggest carbon related decision in a generation” and Weca should make clear its members are divided on the issue. Bristol Airport’s appeal will be heard at a public inquiry in July.
Air ambulance helps 5 patients each day GREAT Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) was called to around five patients a day on average across 2020. Its Critical Care Team were called to 1,726 patients in urgent need across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, and surrounding areas. Fifty-five percent of call-outs were trauma-
related, including over 300 traffic collisions. But the most common incident was people suffering life-threatening cardiac arrests. The lifesaving crew were called out 102 times to Bath and North East Somerset alone. GWAAC receives no day-to-day funding from the NHS or the Government and relies on charitable donations. If you would like to support the charity, visit www.gwaac.com/our-missions
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Caring Terry goes above and beyond TERRY Davis is celebrating his 65th year with 65 fundraising events for Above & Beyond, the NHS charity for Bristol city centre hospitals. The former cancer patient, from Stockwood, is aiming to raise £6,500 for Bristol Against Cancer, a campaign by the charity to make cancer care in Bristol the best it can be. Terry is already well under way, having completed a 5k run on his 64th birthday, a dry January, with no meat or fizzy drinks, and the Pomphrey Hill Challenger – twice. He said: “This is a way to say thank you for all the help of the NHS when I had my battle with cancer.” This isn’t Terry’s first fundraising challenge for Above & Beyond. Previously he completed 60 challenges for his 60th birthday. The charity raises money for projects over and above what the NHS can provide, including safe, modern and friendly environments, innovative research, the latest equipment and staff training. To sponsor Terry, visit www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ Terry-Taz-Davis
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NEWS
March, 2021
Award delight for dad and daughter A SALTFORD Primary School pupil and her dad have won a South West sculpture award. The Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust announced Robin Collings and his nine-year-old daughter Isla as winners of their open call. They have now been awarded a joint commission to create a metal sculpture engraved with a forest-inspired poem written by Isla. Robin and Isla’s new sculpture will form part of a programme of outdoor installations this summer supported by Arts Council England’s Culture Recovery Fund and delivered in partnership with Forestry England. It is hoped that Robin and Isla’s joint creation will inspire and resonate with families who have been home schooling and making art at home with their children through the pandemic. A new one-way route that loops through the trees is planned to enable visiting families to maintain a safe social
Artistic collaborators: Sculptor Robin and poet Isla
distance while enjoying art and nature. Details of the new forest art trail will be released in the coming months, subject to lockdown restrictions. Sarah Bowden, vice-chair of Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust, said: “The selectors were enchanted by Robin Collings’ proposal to create a new piece of
work inspired by the flora and fauna of the forest, with input from his daughter, Isla, aged 9. “Isla and Robin are frequent visitors to the Forest of Dean, and they clearly can’t wait to return. We look forward to seeing how they collaborate with the forest to bring new magic to the trail.”
Robin Collings said: “I am so happy to have been chosen for this commission. The Forest of Dean and specifically the Sculpture Trail holds a special place in my heart. “I spent formative time here as a child, so it is incredibly special to be able to bring my daughter here and work collaboratively on this piece. “The last 12 months have been a disconnecting time for us all, so this sculpture will be an opportunity to explore the connecting nature of the forest and the trail for our families and friends.” Robin is an emerging visual artist and producer. Having been a circus proprietor and founder of the iconic Shangri-la at Glastonbury Festival, he started creating his own sculptural works intended for open-field and festival sites around 2010. By 2015 Robin had commissions from the likes of Rita Ora, Adidas, Secret Garden Party and Mode London.
The steps we’re taking to keep our residents safe
Charterhouse Care Home
VR On to line ur an ava d ilab le
A safe, secure and caring environment Charterhouse is open for admissions
“
Temperature testing for residents, colleagues and visitors
Touch point cleaning and robust infection control procedures
A good supply of PPE for all colleagues
Pre-bookable socially distanced visiting available
The St Monica Trust has been providing high quality care for older people for 100 years and despite the challenge of Covid-19, our care homes are the same safe, secure and engaging places to live that they always have been. Our aim of providing the best experience of ageing has not changed. With our robust infection control procedures, financial stability and dedicated colleagues, you can be sure that we will be here for you or your loved-one no matter what the future brings. David Williams, Chief Executive of St Monica Trust
”
Activities colleagues to keep you engaged and connected with loved-ones
Call 0117 919 4268 or go online for more information www.stmonicatrust.org.uk/charterhouse Charterhouse is a friendly and welcoming care home offering residential, nursing, dementia and respite care within the surroundings of The Chocolate Quarter, Keynsham. Registered Charity 202151.
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March, 2021
T
13
KEYNSHAM AND SALTFORD LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
he building on St Clement’s Road that later became Keynsham Hospital was built in 1837 as the Keynsham Union Workhouse. Before the workhouses – a consequence of the 1834 Poor Law Amendment Act – accommodation for those without means was in “poorhouses”. Provision of these by local parishes was by no means a recent obligation, and over the preceding 200 years there had been various poorhouses in the Keynsham area. In 1601 the Elizabethan Poor Law brought together various older laws and ordered each parish to look after its own poor. They were to erect a poorhouse on the edge of the parish and raise a rate from the substantial householders to pay for it, along with any relief needed for the old, the sick, the orphaned and the unemployed; all were supposed to enter the poorhouse and be set to work before they could receive relief. Queen Charlton built such a poorhouse, a row of six dwellings, which still stands on the edge of the parish, at the junction of Redlynch Lane and Charlton Road, although now a single large house. Keynsham parish never followed suit, and members of the Vestry, who administered this, relied on renting, or buying, cheap rundown properties to house the poor, or some of them at least. Many, especially the old, were given a tiny weekly pension and stayed in their own homes. The impression is that it was the undesirable poor who ended up in a poorhouse. Over the 90 years from 1747, surviving records mention various properties that Keynsham parish used as poorhouses. The first, at a cost of £4 per year, was Drapers, at the junction
Looking back at the town's poorhouses
Nos 6-8 Chew Cottages, built in 1824 and used as poorhouses. Below, Chew Cottages, about 1959 - these were used as poorhouses from about 1832
of what are now St Ladoc and St Francis Roads. By 1759 this was regarded as a den of iniquity. The overseers “ordered that all the single young women now residing in that nursery of vice and debauchery called the poorhouse have immediate notice to go out to service or to be proceeded against … and be punished accordingly.” The parish then rented Coles in the Carpenters Lane area and used this for a long time; it seems to have been a dilapidated place,
needing frequent repairs “at the least expense”. Towards the end of the 18th century the parish made several efforts to build its own poorhouse, spurred on, no doubt, by the fact they were spending £65 a year on rent alone. However, these plans came to nothing and they rented or purchased various properties, including The Batch, on the east side of the Bath Road, in the Dragons Hill area. This, too, became very rundown and a
home for undesirables. After 1800, the poorhouse most frequently mentioned in the records is the King's Arms, which was on the Bristol Road, where Milward Lodge now stands. This had been an important inn in the 17th century, and the Vestry meetings were held there, but it had ceased to be an inn by 1773 and was bought by the parish in 1821. It needed immediate retiling, and more work in the years following; in 1824 the house was to be whitewashed annually, the front was to be coloured, and the windows repaired. In 1831 the Vestry decided to sell The Batch and buy Pope’s Paddock, the wedge-shaped plot on the east side of the Chew just upstream of Dapps Hill Bridge, as the site of a new poorhouse. But this never materialised and the land was soon sold. The Vestry then raised a £700 mortgage to buy property nearby in Dapps Hill. This comprised the Swan River Tenements (now called Chew Cottages) and the newer cottages behind them that were built by John Clark, a local lime burner and basket maker, in 1824. Meanwhile, in 1832 the Vestry decided it was providing accommodation for people who should not be classed as paupers and evicted 19 from its properties. Others were moved into the new accommodation, but this was used only until 1838, when all the residents were re-housed on the opening of the new workhouse. The Vestry then had the problem of disposing of the cottages, on which they still had a large mortgage - but that’s another story. l This is a shortened version of an article by Elizabeth White in the society journal of 1999. Richard Dyson
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NEWS
Apprentice Amy is
think ‘myIproudest
A FORMER Wellsway student is among Ministry of Defence recruits whose talents have been celebrated during a national apprenticeship week. Amy Knight works for Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), the MoD’s procurement arm, whose headquarters are at Abbey Wood in Bristol. As well as being a Project Professional apprentice at DE&S, Amy mentors students as they contemplate what to do after leaving school. For Amy, the apprenticeship route was preferable to going to university after leaving Wellsway sixth form in Keynsham - and she hasn’t looked back. The 19-year-old is now cutting her teeth in project management on the Project Professional scheme. Her first placement was on the Type 31 frigate programme and she has recently begun a secondment with the Submarine Development Agency, albeit
moment is that I've just become a mentor to a Year 13 student, which I was able to do through the apprenticeship. I look forward to those sessions and making a bit of a difference. Amy Knight, Ministry of Defence procurement apprentice
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working from home during the Covid-19 pandemic. “I think I’ve really enjoyed being in a cohort full of the same people going through the same thing,” she said. “The scheme has been really good, and we’ve had network sessions, so we all get together once a month just to hear each other’s voices. “I think my proudest moment is that I’ve just become a mentor to a Year 13 student, which I was able to do through the apprenticeship. I look forward to those sessions and making a bit of a difference.” As well as the chance to work on some of the UK’s biggest defence projects and see the kit and vehicles which will be used by the armed forces up close, Amy sees plenty of other benefits of being part of DE&S. She said: “I think the main benefit of being an apprentice here is probably the fact you get the qualification, but you also
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March, 2021
NEWS
15
a shining example get that on-the-job training. So you get that exposure to what you will be doing once you finish. You don’t get the qualification and then get put into a situation where you've got to learn again you’ve learned what you have to do as you’ve gone along.” And there are other benefits too. “Flexi working is really, really good,” Amy added. “My hours tend to be seven till three, which suits me really well. The pension scheme is really, really good and you feel like you’re looked after and cared for, definitely.” DE&S employs more than 400 apprentices at a number of UK sites who are developing their skills for a career within DE&S or its sister agency, the Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA). It is the 14th time that DE&S has staged its National Apprenticeship Week. Events took place across England last month, highlighting the benefits to employers of all sizes in taking on an apprentice.
There are four apprenticeship schemes, across functions including engineering, finance and accounting and project management. Anyone joining one of the schemes also has an opportunity to join the SDA. Sue Snowball, Entry Talent & Learning Support Lead, said: “We’re always looking for talented and enthusiastic people across all backgrounds to start their exciting and fulfilling career with us. “Our opportunities suit individuals who can apply themselves, bring their drive and energy at the start of their career and are outcome-focused. “Here in DE&S, we make sure we help you develop your career throughout the organisation and we’re always developing tomorrow’s talent today by providing a great foundation and career progression.” To find out more about the apprenticeships, visit https:// des.mod.uk/careers/graduateschemes-and-apprenticeships/
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n NEWS
Golf club halts access for walkers SALTFORD Golf Club has suspended public access to residents who have enjoyed walking on its course during lockdown. Club chairman David Diamond explained: “Due to the adverse weather conditions and heavy footfall, our greens maintenance team will be repairing the damage and preparing the course in readiness for members to resume playing golf. “Therefore please be advised that in the interest of safety and with immediate effect, Saltford Golf Club is suspending all public access to walkers on the course. “We hope that you have enjoyed the beauty of our golf course during these difficult and unprecedented times.”
March, 2021
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH Ken Plant a Reader at St Mary’s, Saltford
colour in a rainbow is ‘ Each beautiful in its own right, but
when all together, they become even more beautiful.
W
e must all have noticed how popular the rainbow has become. Images of rainbows have brightened up the environment far and wide, and sometimes in unexpected places. They’ve become a symbol of hope, gratitude, goodwill and sometimes of joy. They also serve to point out how different we all are and to celebrate those differences. We are all so different in so many ways, aren’t we? Each colour in a rainbow is beautiful in its own right, but when all together, they become even more beautiful …. isn’t that true of all societies, communities, clubs and even families? I think it is probably fair to say that clubs and societies that are made up of people who all see and think the same way (and so belong together because of that) are not just dull, but unattractive and sometimes even, sadly, repellent. Interestingly, the Bible-writers use rainbows in a similar way. Noah’s rainbow served as a reminder of God’s gift of life to all people of every different kind life in all its various shades and colours and beauty.
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Two writers try to give us some idea of the wonder, splendour and beauty of God and they imagine God’s ‘throne’ being surrounded by a rainbow! Are they also suggesting that variety comes from God, I wonder? From our standpoint, a rainbow forms an arch over us, recalling the saying that it is “in God that we live and move and have our being”. We know, too, that rainbows touch the earth and Christmas teaches us that God became one of us in the man, Jesus. He accepted and had time for all whom he met, and oddly he chose as his first closest followers a collection of hugely different and varied people. We know too that it is impossible to reach the rainbow’s end. It keeps moving ahead of us if we try. Jesus repeatedly calls people to follow him and in doing that, we learn to think differently, develop new values, become more varied and at the same time more accepting of people’s differences. Oh, and yes, if we do reach the end of the rainbow, there really is an amazingly wonderful treasure there!
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March, 2021
17
n NEWS
Gerda's lockdown photo is a winner THIS stunning shot has won a lockdown photo competition run by Broadlands Academy. The atmospheric view was captured by Gerda, a Year 9 student at the school in Keynsham. She took the photo on a path near the River Avon in Bristol because she wanted to try a Gerda had a race against puddle picture and time in fading light to see how it would capture her path photo turn out. “It was getting dark so I had to do it in limited time. When I found out that I won, I felt really shocked and really happy.” Gerda, aged 13, used a Sony camera to take her winning shot. She added: “Photography is my hobby as well as my mum’s and granddad’s.” The photo contest was part of a number of activities that Broadlands has been running to support students during lockdown. The aim is to encourage them to take a break from their screens and get out and about, improving their wellbeing and mental health. Other activities have included creative writing competitions, Couch to 5k running/ exercising, careers advice and daily assemblies. Chris Jackson, Broadlands vice principal, said of the photo contest: “We had over 100 photographs submitted and the quality of them was phenomenal. “Gerda’s picture really struck a chord with the judges, as it showed Bristol in all its glory the river, graffiti, its industrial past. “Marvin Rees, Mayor of Bristol, also showed his support for Gerda’s picture via Twitter too.” Gerda’s prize is an Amazon gift card and a blown-up version of her picture, ready to be mounted and framed. Her chosen subjects at Broadlands are History, Spanish and Business, as well as PE.
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18
CHANGING FOR THE BETTER
with Transition Keynsham
Sit and learn about the world around you
I
n a recent podcast, David Attenborough said that in the past half-century we have been given the mechanisms of poisoning and destroying nature beyond the powers of any human previously on Earth. We use this power to take what we want from nature without a care. Attenborough said we’ve forgotten that we depend on the natural world for every breath of air we take and every bite of food we eat. He reminded us that we’re part of the natural world and have a responsibility for it. Every small child, he said, has a sense of wonder about the natural world, but as they grow older, they become interested in other things and lose that fascination. As adults, they are disconnected from nature, and continue to take, damage and destroy with impunity. There have been many studies showing that without a connection to nature, people fail to see how integral it is to our lives
David Attenborough reminds us of our responsibility and lose interest in protecting it. Other studies show how this disconnection is bad for our health, leading to attention difficulties and high rates of physical and mental
Photo: BBC
illnesses. What can we do to restore this connection? Attenborough’s prescription is to go to a local wood or natural space. “Stop,” he said in the podcast.
“Sit down. Don’t move. Keep quiet. Wait 10 minutes. Don’t be impatient. Something interesting will happen.” Even those of us with full-time jobs can afford to take 10 minutes out of our day just to sit and be in nature – even if it’s only in our back garden. We can encourage our children and grandchildren to discover or renew their sense of wonder in the natural world too, so that future generations learn to live in harmony with nature rather than taking from it as if it were an endless gift. In Keynsham we’re so lucky to have nature on our doorstep. The Manor Road and Abbey woods to the west and east of the town and our river walks are great places to discover local wildlife. Last week, standing quietly by the river at Somerdale, I saw a cormorant and a kingfisher, sightings that lifted my spirits in these dark days. Liz Barling
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March, 2021
19
n NEWS
Police budget will fund 70 extra officers AVON and Somerset Police will get critical funding for 70 new officers after a revised budget was agreed at the eleventh hour. Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said a vote by councillors to veto her original proposals had damaged staff morale and sparked claims they were playing politics. She had wanted households to pay an extra £15 from April, the maximum allowed, but settled on £13.39, with the gap plugged from reserves. Avon Fire Authority and councils across Avon and Somerset are also increasing their shares of council tax, most by the maximum allowed. Bringing her revised budget to the police and crime panel meeting on February 18, Ms Mountstevens said: “There’s been a lot of noise that what we’re seeing is a tussle between the PCC and the panel, that it’s playing politics and trying to undermine the independent role of the PCC. There’s even been
RESIDENTS across the West of England will pay £1.49 more for fire and rescue services in 2021/22. The 1.99 per cent increase – equivalent to 2.9 pence per week for the average band D household – has been unanimously approved by councillors on the Avon Fire Authority. The average band D household will pay £70 to £90 more, depending on where they live. The rise will bring in an additional £599,000. speculation that someone in the panel is going to stand for the election. This decision is too important for such chatter.” She added: “My revised precept seeks to maintain the critical investment in proactive policing, offender management and specialist investigation. It will create a £1 million annual funding gap, funded from reserves next year, with the removal of the £1 million PCC’s fund. Reserves being used in this way is not sustainable. “Reducing the budget could be seen as a victimless crime, but nothing could be further from the truth.” She said those who suffered were the victims of rape, child
exploitation, drug-related crime, burglary and knife crime. Sedgemoor’s Councillor Janet Keen took exception to her comments. Ms Mountstevens said the panel’s veto – their only opportunity to influence the budget earlier this month – had damaged staff morale and left them disappointed when the £15 increase was backed by all other police and crime panels. Only better-funded forces asked for a smaller increase. The PCC said the force was determined to reinstate Operation Bluestone with 90 officers to improve the number of sexual offence convictions. Each local authority area will get
an Operation Remedy team to tackle burglaries, drugs and knife crime, along with new facilities to manage offenders. North Somerset’s Councillor Roz Willis said she had vetoed the first budget to protect residents “devastated” over the last year after losing their homes, jobs and loved ones. She said she would not be “guilt tripped” but voted to approve the revised budget. Bath and North East Somerset’s Councillor Andy Wait said: “In the past year we [B&NES Council] have had to make £10 million of savings and take £11 million from reserves because our income has been devastated. B&NES Council’s position is far worse than the police.” The panel voted to approve the revised budget, with one member abstaining. The rise of £13.39 – 5.88 per cent – will see the average band D property pay the police £241.20 in 2021/22.
e e Keynsham Baptist Church Kelly - 07795 951137 Tues PM, Thurs AM or Thurs PM
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Hengrove Community Centre Sarah - 07879 443888 Tues AM or Wed PM
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20
March, 2021
n NEWS FROM OUR MP
T
Jacob Rees-Mogg writes for
Keynsham Voice
HE Prime Minister has outlined his roadmap for easing the lockdown in England. Vaccinations have now been given to millions and, in tandem with people following the lockdown guidance, this has meant that the rates of Covid-19 transmission and resulting death have fallen significantly. On March 8, children will return to school. This was the Prime Minister’s priority as children need to catch up on the learning they have missed out on as well as being able to socialise with their classmates. From March 29, outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households will be allowed, providing greater flexibility for families to see each other, including in private gardens. Outdoor sports facilities will restart and the ‘stay at home’ order will end, although with restrictions. From April 12, non-essential retail, personal care premises and public buildings will reopen. Indoor leisure facilities, such as gyms and swimming pools, are included but only for use by people on their own or with their household. Crucially, hospitality venues will be able to serve outdoors but customers must order, eat and drink while seated. People will be allowed to go on holiday in selfcontained accommodation, funerals can continue with up to 30 people, and the numbers able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events will rise to 15. By May 17, many of the social rules will be lifted with limitations still remaining. These changes will, of
course, be subject to the data, but if the success of the vaccination rollout continues and people adhere to the rules, there is no reason not to be hopeful for a more joyful and prosperous summer beyond June 21. n The Government has announced that it is giving £50 million of hardship funding to higher education providers to support students who have been affected by the pandemic. This is in addition to the £20 million announced in December 2020, bringing the total to £70 million on top of the existing £256 million premium funding already available to students for this academic year. The Government acknowledges the impact that the coronavirus has made and how difficult the challenges have been for students, not only in terms of learning and studying but also financially, which is why its decision to increase spending is welcome news. The money will be allocated by the Office for Students, and universities will continue to have flexibility in how and to whom they distribute it, including international students and postgraduates, ensuring that it prioritises those in greatest need. The Government concluded that higher education providers are best placed to decide which students can benefit, most likely those who are facing additional costs arising from maintaining accommodation in more than one location or have not been able to maintain their employment. We must continue to help one another during these trying times and the Government is leading by example.
You Are Welcome to Attend! On the night before he died, Jesus told his followers to commemorate his death when he said: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19) Please join us for this annual commemoration on: Saturday 27th March 2021 at 7:00PM Related to this, a special Bible talk “Have You Found a ‘Pearl of High Value’?” will be given worldwide on: Sunday 21st March 2021 at 10:00AM These events will be held by videoconference this year. For further details please contact: contactjwlocal@gmail.com or 0117 442 0332 To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448
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March, 2021
21
n NEWS
Highway to keep hedgehogs safe
Dementia wristbands
Hedgehog highways are among a number of wildlife initiatives at the Hygge Park development A HEDGEHOG highway has been constructed at that our residents enjoy the sight of one of Britain’s a housing development in Keynsham as part of indigenous animals.” efforts to support wildlife. Dale Cooper, associated at FPCR Environment Crest Nicholson made the highway at its Hygge and Design, added: “Hedgehogs are crucial to Park development in partnership with Tyler Grange Britain’s ecosystem and are a very good biological ecologists. pest control for gardens, as they enjoy slugs, snails It helps hedgehogs roam freely at night between and insects. gardens, and keeps them safe by enabling them to “Unfortunately, multiple studies have shown avoid roads. that hedgehog populations have declined Other wildlife initiatives at the development significantly in recent years, with road deaths one include nesting boxes for a variety of bat and bird of the primary causes. species, and a bug mansion. “The hedgehog highways, like at Hygge Tracey Gallacher, head of sales and marketing Park, can play a key role in their conservation at Crest Nicholson South West, said: “The highways by improving habitat connectivity and allowing are a key part of our sustainability promise so we’re hedgehogs to access more of the food and shelter Winter Voice ad.qxp_Layout 1 19/09/2020 23:02 Page 1 also introducing them to our other sites and hope needed for sustainable populations in urban areas.”
A HAPPY RETIREMENT IS JUST ROUND THE CORNER
A TOTAL of 2,000 hi-tech wristbands have been made available by Avon and Somerset Police to help safeguard people living with dementia. The initiative was first launched on BBC Crimewatch last September in collaboration with the Senior Citizen Liaison Team (charity) and Avon Fire & Rescue Service. Using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, the wristband stores essential information about the wearer, including their name and details of next of kin. This information can be used by emergency services, health professionals or community members to get the wearer back to safety should they be found whilst lost or confused. The new wristbands are free of charge. To apply for one, go to www.avonandsomerset.police. uk and search for ‘Dementia Safeguarding Scheme’.
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March, 2021
n LETTERS
Biogas generator – let's consider the facts DURING last spring’s lockdown, one of the early-morning joys of my daily exercise was cycling to the top of Charlton Road to Charlton fields, birdwatching. I observed whitethroat, linnet, skylark, goldfinch, kestrel, and even roe deer barking. Charlton fields is a great place for wildlife, all within 500 metres of the site of the proposed biogas generator, much of which is already in place. These anaerobic digesters have few moving parts, release little smell or noise, and generate renewable electricity and methane gas for the national grid from domestic and agricultural organic waste. Globally, they are important in mitigating the potentially disastrous effects of climate change caused by the continued
burning of fossil fuels. I have spent much of my professional life teaching secondary school pupils about the importance of sustainable, renewable energy resources, including wind turbines, solar energy and biogas generators. Therefore, I am delighted that Resourceful Energy Anaerobic Ltd (REAL) has submitted new plans to produce biogas on an industrial scale near Keynsham. I sincerely hope that BANES council sees the bigger picture and takes the wise, long-term view that such a resource would be as useful and indispensable a local facility as Saltford sewage works and Pixash Lane recycling centre, and a positive example for the rest of the country to follow. I’m dismayed that there seems
to be a vocal outcry against the installation, and I understand some of the concerns, not least the increase in heavy lorries using Woollard Lane and the top of Charlton Road. However, these lorries would not be allowed to come through Keynsham, and 10,000 lorries per year works out at about 30 lorries per day in and out – a tiny fraction of the daily traffic along Keynsham by-pass. So, I would urge every Keynsham resident to research the facts about biogas generators and vote to support the planning application via the consultation on the BANES website. Contrary to what I have read in the local press, I do not believe a biogas generator would “have a huge impact on the quality of life”
(except a positive one in that it would reduce our consumption of fossil fuels) and I am sure I would be able to continue to enjoy my cycle ride and wildlife watching in the scrub on the other side of Charlton Field Lane for many years to come (especially if REAL acts on its pledge to improve the local natural environment). Neither should it be viewed as “a dumping ground for BANES waste”, but an essential facility for the benefit of all. To me, the presence of a biogas generator would be as sweet as the smell of chocolate from our former factory – itself one of the town’s biggest producers of greenhouse gases in the past! Dave Sage Keynsham resident (concerned about the future of planet earth)
Showroom photo prompts memories of the 1970s I WAS interested in your picture of the now demolished garage and showroom on the corner of Ashton Way (Keynsham and Saltford Local History Society article, January 2021 issue). I came to live permanently in Keynsham in April 1974 and just about remember the old one at the front being demolished and work on the new garage going on. Opposite this site on the Rock Road side was a Victorian house (possibly two) with an orchard in the back garden. The path leading to Carpenters Lane still has part of its wall on the left. I cannot now recall what this house looked like – are there any photos of it out there? When it was demolished to build a car park, it opened the way for The Labbott houses to be built on what was up to that point an allotment. The loss of the allotment led later to the loss of what appeared to be a public footpath that linked the top of the allotment to Park Road and, I recall, a smaller one that led out to the top of Rock
The new workshop and showroom under construction in April 1974 Photo from the Russell Leitch collection Road. This was around 1975, when Snooker Centre but was meant a lot of development was going to be a public house at the time, on in and around the centre of apparently to be called The Keynsham. Wansdyke Arms, but which never The old London Inn (opposite happened for some reason. the entrance to Carpenters Lane) My grandparents were some was about to be demolished to of the first tenants in the sheltered build offices for the Gas Board, complex for the elderly in which incorporated some shops, Carpenters Lane, moving in around a new leisure centre and a March 1967. building that became Keynsham Some green space has been
Appeasement is not the answer to genocide AFTER reading Jacob Rees-Mogg's column in the February edition of Keynsham Voice, I had to pinch myself to make sure that I had not been transported to a re-run of The Remains of the Day, with our local MP suitably cast as Lord Darlington. There is now overwhelming evidence that the People's Republic of China is engaging in genocide of the Uighurs. Yet Mr Rees-Mogg can only bring himself
to write "There are ... many continuing concerns pertaining to how certain countries operate both domestically and internationally". The Conservative Party's policy of appeasement to Germany in the 1930s is not generally considered a success and I predict that appeasement to China in the 2020s will suffer the same fate. Edmund Cannon
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retained in the park nearby, thankfully, but I never quite understood why a few bits of play equipment could not have been retained for children, as there were originally. It all disappeared very suddenly a long time ago. Part of the green has also been built on. At this time, the old Bethesda Chapel on the corner of Carpenters Lane and Temple Street, now a carpet shop, was Cashman’s, a DIY store. Bethesda appears to have been an offshoot of Methodism, though it is unclear when this chapel was last used as a church. As the dates suggested vary from 1946 to 1967, it is surely in living memory for some people still living in Keynsham, though I do not recall meeting one. John Wesley visited Keynsham about ten times, but it could not have been to this church (or the Victoria one in the High Street) as they were both built some time after his death. The founder of Methodism lived in the centre of Bristol for many years and would have visited outlying places like Keynsham and Kingswood on horseback, to spread the gospel for what was to become a worldwide religious denomination. I would imagine he would rank very highly on a list of famous people who have definitely been in our High Street. Lionel Hutt Coronation Avenue, Keynsham
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M
others are twice blessed as they have two days when their role in the family is celebrated. There’s the one midway through Lent traditionally known as Mothering Sunday and then the second one in May that has been adopted from America. That second date gives a welcome boost to the business of florists, card makers and the suppliers of gifts. Its origins date to the American Civil War but it began in 1905. It evolved through the work of Anne Jarvis, whose mother had helped care for wounded soldiers in the Civil War and wanted to dedicate a day to celebrate the caring work of women. Her daughter managed to champion her work by launching Mother’s Day in the USA as the second Sunday in May. It quickly became commercialised and grew in profile - with other nations adopting the day. The original Mothering Sunday dates to at least the Middle Ages as a celebration of the Mother Church and the role of mothers.
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During the 19th century the day became increasingly associated with mothers as the newly created greeting card and gift industries took off. Children who had left home for work in factories, mines and as servants would return to the parental home with gifts of cake and flowers for their mothers. Increasingly in the 20th and 21st centuries the date is marked by offers of restaurant meals for mum, weekend breaks for mum and even the marketing of new domestic gadgets for mum - all to mark the day. What do mums want on the day? Well, all mothers want is the love of their family and hopefully for them all to rally round, cook her a Sunday lunch and do all the chores that are usually left to her. This year the date is Sunday, March 14. l Pictured left, the author's mother and older sister in Seaton in 1952. She had six children and as a devout Christian made sure we all celebrated the day by cooking lunch and bringing her breakfast in bed before attending church in the morning on Mothering Sunday.
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keynshamvoice
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March, 2021
n NEWS
Team targets rubbish on high-speed roads
LITTER in hedgerows and verges on busy routes in the Keynsham and Saltford area is being tackled as part of a clean-up operation. High-speed roads across Bath and North East Somerset are being targeted by the district council’s cleansing teams. They are picking up rubbish thrown from vehicles onto verges of A and B roads over a sevenweek period. The operation, which started last month, is due to run until early April, depending on weather conditions. Routes due to be cleaned up include the A4 Keynsham bypass, from the Globe roundabout to the Three Lamps Junction in Totterdown; Charlton Road; Queen Charlton Lane; the B3166 into Keynsham from its junction with the A39; and the A431 Kelston Road. Traffic management will be in place as the teams clean up more than 150 miles of verges at a cost
of £18,000 to the council. Last year crews collected more than 188 bags of waste weighing in at 3.5 tonnes. Councillor David Wood, joint cabinet member for neighbourhood services and climate emergency, said: “The rubbish in our hedgerows and verges is completely unnecessary and is only there because of people’s carelessness. Most of it is fast-food packaging and items thrown from vehicles. “Litter is not only an eyesore but damages the environment and wildlife too. “Our clean-up operation is expensive, time-consuming and dangerous for our crews and it’s frustrating that this time and money could be better spent on other essential services. “However, we want to keep our countryside looking beautiful, which is why we have dedicated funding to carry this out each year.”
COMMUNITIES will benefit from a £59,000 funding boost to help address local needs under B&NES budget proposals for the coming year. Each councillor will have access to a £1,000 “empowerment fund” which they can use to support local projects and improve residents’ lives. Keynsham East Councillor Hal MacFie said: “It’s brilliant news that this scheme is being made available again. “Over the last 15 months,
my ward colleague and I have been able to allocate funding to new benches, including in the Memorial Park, and to supporting the vital work of Keynsham food bank.” Residents should contact their ward councillors if they would like to make suggestions for the ward empowerment funds. l Pictured, Andy Wait and Hal MacFie on a bench at the Manor Road playing fields that was provided with the fund's help.
Join the adventure!
We are Keynsham’s newest primary school. Our first pupils are thriving in our amazing learning environment and we look forward to welcoming more children in Reception and Year 1 in September 2021. Visit our website to find out more. Wendy Carver, Head of School
Watch our virtual tour online Part of the Wellsway Multi Academy Trust
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Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
March, 2021
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n NEWS
World-beater Kate pedals to record
DETERMINED Keynsham cyclist Kate Strong has refused to let the lockdown prevent her from trying to get into the record books. Kate, a coach and consultant, spent a year training for her bid to cover the farthest distance on a static bike in 24 hours, but she had to postpone her attempt because of coronavirus restrictions. Instead, Kate set her sights on a shorter distance– and succeeded in beating the women’s world record by covering 23.94 miles in one hour. She explained: “Unfortunately, with lockdown being announced, it was impossible for me to attempt the 24-hour world record. I did decide to attempt the one-hour record to do something and to comply to lockdown regulations. “I attempted it outside my flat in Keynsham in sub-zero temperatures. Two neighbours witnessed the record - we needed witnesses for it to be an official record attempt - from their lounge windows and sometimes front door to comply with social distancing. “I beat the current one-hour record by two miles, and I am waiting for Guinness to confirm that the paperwork is in order for a record to be given.” Kate hopes to complete the 24-hour
Neighbours acted as witnesses to Kate's record record at Cabot Circus in the spring but is waiting for more information about the state of the lockdown before committing to a date. She started her training plan in January last year. “Currently, Guinness has set the minimum distance to cover in 24 hours at 680 kilometres (approximately 423 miles), so I’m aiming for at least that.”
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Kate does not expect to take any sleeping breaks during her attempt. She has accounted for up to two hours of stopping time, to include bathroom breaks, any change of clothing and massages/physio for her legs and back. For more information about Kate’s record attempt, go to www.katestrong.co/worldrecord
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keynshamvoice
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March, 2021
n BACK TO NATURE with Avon Wildlife Trust Keynsham Group
T
he February Zoom meeting of Keynsham’s group of the Avon Wildlife Trust started 15 minutes early, with good reason, writes chairman Dave Sage. Regular members joined early to celebrate the birthday of recently retired secretary Cynthia Wilson and to present her with gifts (via daughter-in-law Shauna, in her bubble) as a huge thank-you for her amazing efforts on behalf of the trust since 2001 – 20 years! The main gift was a voucher for two for lunch at Newton Farm in Newton St Loe (subject of last month’s talk), which she will enjoy once we are out of lockdown. We were grateful for the support of trust chief executive Ian Barrett, who gave a moving account of her phenomenal achievements and paid tribute to her drive, energy and desire to educate, entertain and inspire the local community about our precious and increasingly threatened wildlife. Ironically, it was the necessity of Zoom meetings that contributed to her resignation last September. Cynthia knows she is always welcome back to the committee once things return to normal, although it is clear that she has fully earned her “retirement”! Following this virtual presentation was an excellent talk on the wildlife of the Dorset coast by Ed Drewitt, from the Forest of Dean, who works as a freelance naturalist, wildlife and fossil detective, and learning consultant. One of Cynthia’s favourites, Ed is “passionate and enthusiastic about engaging people in wildlife, inspiring everyone to go out and be 'wowed' by what the natural world has to offer.” This was Ed’s third talk to the group, his first back in 2007. Therefore, we knew his talk would be of exceptionally high quality, and we weren’t disappointed. We set off on the virtual tour by boat, out of Weymouth harbour, a mile or two offshore above the steep-sided deep water canyons that create up-currents rich in phytoplankton (the ocean’s producers, main carbon sinks and the basis of most marine food chains) and zooplankton. These support a huge
Amazing efforts: Cynthia Wilson
Juvenile kestrel on the cliffs at Durlston on the Jurassic coast
Voyage to explore coastal treasures
Avocets - large numbers make Poole Harbour their home during winter months Photos by Martin Farrell Our next online talk is The Forest of Dean Pine Marten Project with Dr Cat McNicol, on Friday March 12. Having previously worked with the Vincent Trust studying pine martens and grey squirrels in Wales, Cat joined Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust in 2019 to manage the delivery of a pine marten reintroduction in the Forest of Dean. This five-year project aims to restore a sustainable population of pine martens, a native mammal, to Gloucestershire and the South West. We will hear about the ecology of this charismatic species and the project under way in the Forest of Dean. To join the talk, visit keynshamawt.org/whats-on, email keynshamawt@gmail.com or contact Kathy on 07850 508702. abundance and diversity of wildlife, including many fish, aquatic mammals and seabirds. Sharks and rays are commonly seen, as well as bottle-nosed and white beaked dolphins. Notable birds include greater black-backed gulls, fulmars, great skuas (“bonxies”) and gannets, whose fishing technique is very dramatic – plummeting at high speed into the water and snatching unsuspecting fish in an instant.
Back to shore, we paused briefly to admire the Jurassic coast near Lyme Regis, 150 million years ago a shallow, tropical sea teeming with ammonites and ichthyosaurs – the mythical “sea dragons” – and now yielding large numbers of fossils. This area was immortalised in the 19th century by local girl Mary Anning, who became a famous fossil collector. Once back on dry land we were shown the eroded cliffs between
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Portland Bill and Swanage, a great place to see colonies of puffins, razorbills and guillemots, some of which breed during the summer. Gulls abound, notably herring gulls, more solitary than the colonial lesser black-backed gulls and black headed gulls, some of which fly all the way to Poland and the Baltic states to breed in summer. Several raptors also patrol these cliffs, with breeding kestrels relatively easy to spot in season and peregrine falcons whizzing past at eye level as they hunt. Notable shore plants include sea lavender, sea thrift, golden samphire and viper’s bugloss. Further east we reached Poole Harbour (second largest natural harbour in the world), a shallow brackish water lagoon which is a haven for wildlife – common terns, avocets, black-tailed godwits and the ever-increasing spoonbills are regularly seen, as well as ospreys in the summer, recently reintroduced after a 180-year absence. After visiting several other charismatic habitats, we finally arrived at RSPB Arne, a nationally important heathland reserve, precious because much of it has been lost to development. The sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil supports heathers, broom and gorse, bog asphodel in wetter areas and the insectivorous plant sundew, supplementing its mineral intake by trapping and digesting insects. This unique habitat contains all six British reptiles – adder, grass snake, smooth snake, common lizard, sand lizard and slow worm. It is also home to many insect and bird species. After thanking Ed for his superb virtual tour, members reported seeing locally a black redstart, long-tailed tits, a kestrel hunting regularly in Stockwood Vale, blackcap and bullfinch in the snow, and a scarlet elf cup fungus. The talk raised nearly £300 for the trust. Thanks once again to Kathy Farrell for publicising and hosting the talk.
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keynshamvoice
March, 2021
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n NEWS
Protecting our children from sex abuse A TRAINER is calling for greater awareness of sexual harassment and assault in schools – as a government report found that a third of girls and many boys experienced unwanted touching. Former teacher Clare Davis runs free mental health chats online to talk about difficult topics. And during conversations with sexual abuse victims – including a mother from Saltford (see panel below) - she found a common theme was a fear of speaking out. Clare said: “We need to speak about sex with our children early on, so they better understand consent and acceptable behaviour.” The mum-of-four is a mental health first aid instructor who helps people in schools and organisations have hard
Clare Davis is calling for greater awareness of sexual assault in schools conversations. She has delivered mental health training to schools across the Bristol area. She said: “Sexual assault has a long-lasting impact on a person and it would be better if we could help stop would-be perpetrators early on. “It helps to raise awareness among those who safeguard children - be it teachers, parents or coaches – to know the signs
LIZ Walton, 51, from Saltford, was abused by a relative from the age of six until she was a teenager. But she struggled to speak out – fearing the consequences. The former Bath College student said: “I felt guilt, shame and disgust over what happened. It was an unspoken world and I couldn’t talk about it with anyone. “He [the perpetrator] told me that it was our secret and if I told anyone there would be consequences. I was afraid. I also feared hurting and annihilating the family. “I felt confused and thought something bad was happening, though I didn’t really understand it. But as a child, how do you say something that you know will hurt other people?” Liz turned to alcohol in her late teens and early 20s, as well as food, as a coping mechanism and way to feel ‘protected’ by the extra weight. Physician Dr Vincent Felitti discovered the effects of child sexual abuse in the 1980s while trying to understand a very different health problem – helping obese people lose weight. He learned that a high proportion of dropouts from a weight-loss programme had been abused as children. With epidemiologist Dr Robert Anda, he looked at the effects of childhood trauma. The study found Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) was linked to ill-health throughout life. Liz, whose family lived abroad when she was a teenager, put on four stone within months of returning to the UK and to the place where the abuse had taken place. She said: “It didn’t feel safe to be slim, which is typically seen as attractive, and the extra weight offered a great protection. I didn’t like myself, never felt ‘good enough’ and blamed myself for what had happened. I also drank and sought love in the wrong places.”
to look out for if a child has been affected. “We need to have those difficult conversations, use the correct words rather than euphemisms, and find the best way to support children who have been harmed.” A government report found that a third of girls and six per cent of boys reported sexual harassment at school - and thousands received counselling for sexual assault. But children may struggle to speak out for fear of consequences, self-blame and feelings of helplessness. Abusers also often try to prevent children from telling someone. Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (SARSAS) is a specialist centre for recovery following rape and sexual violence in the South West.
Liz Walton has learned to rebuild her life after suffering abuse as a child
He told me that it was our secret and if I told anyone there would be consequences Liz began to understand the impact the abuse had on her while undergoing therapy for infertility. After trying six rounds of IVF treatment, she became pregnant naturally at the age of 46. She said: “I had to stop my sabotaging behaviour and it was a ‘do or die’ moment. The first step was to acknowledge what had happened, and once I did, I felt so much better. “We can avoid speaking about things which hurt, but this keeps us stuck. We may want to forget, but our body remembers - and we can keep repeating unhealthy behaviours.” Liz, who has over 25 years’ experience in
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The team, which campaigns for early intervention to help prevent attacks, has the motto ‘listen, believe, support’. CEO Claire Bloor said: “If a child speaks with you about a sexual assault or abuse, it’s important to listen, let them speak at their own pace, and let them know you believe them. “If someone is dismissed, such as questioned if they are sure about what happened, then it can take years before they will speak out again. “Education is really important, but we can’t only place the burden on children to protect themselves from sexual assault. This needs to be everyone’s concern.” Clare, an international coach based in Longwell Green, heads Nova Associates in Bristol to help build healthy relationships.
the therapeutic industry, now coaches other couples with infertility struggles. She believes dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, childhood traumas and other mental blocks can help smooth the road to pregnancy. Liz said: “My old bad habits have since fallen away. I feel vivacious, loud and proud. Working on myself also gave me the confidence to set up and run my own business.” Many years later, Liz’s abuser apologised and she learned he had also been abused, by children at his school. The Survivor’s Trust (TST), the largest umbrella agency for specialist rape and sexual abuse services in the UK, reports that most adult perpetrators (75 per cent) of child abuse were abused themselves as children. But TST highlights that it is not true that all abused children will grow up to be perpetrators. Liz said: ‘He [perpetrator] said ‘I’m really sorry for what I did to you’. It was an incredible moment and something I had been waiting to hear for many years. I believe he was acting out of anger and hadn’t dealt with his own trauma and abuse. While this certainly doesn’t excuse his behaviour, it did help me to better understand it.” Liz, who went onto volunteer at an orphanage and better understood the impact of childhood trauma first-hand, said: “For me, forgiveness - of him, myself and the self-blame and those who unwittingly allowed it to happen - has helped release me from ties to those events and move on with my life. “I believe we have a choice about how we choose to behave and respond to events. I’ve decided not to be a victim.” For more information, visit https:// lizwalton.org/ . To see Clare Davis’s interview with Liz, go to https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=yOY7EN_7tfk
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keynshamvoice
March, 2021
31
n ADVERTISING FEATURE The cows at Farmhouse Dairy Somerset are free to graze in the summer and stay in a warm shed in the winter
Dairy delivers a traditional taste FARMHOUSE FARMHOUSE Dairy Somerset have been farming in the county for five generations. We used to supply our milk to a large company in London, who would then distribute it to shops such as Selfridges, Harrods, and Fortnum & Mason. But when the first lockdown struck, 95% of the London trade dropped off and our milk price was significantly reduced. We needed to think of a way to sell the milk to save the cows. That’s where the idea of doorstep delivery came in. Starting off with the local village, our milk round has grown to the extent that we now have our own milk-processing plant on
DAIRY
the farm. The milk travels from the cows in a traditional way. All our male calves are both of value on SOMERSET milking parlour to the bulk tank milk is non-homogenised and the farm. Many dairy farms achieve and then across the farmyard to just pasteurised. This means it has a high milk yield by using large our pasteurising unit. a creamy taste in comparison to Holstein cows which stay in a large Our farming methods have not normal supermarket milk. shed, but we like to farm in as oldchanged much over the years. Our If you leave our milk in the fashioned a manner as possible. We cows are free-range and only come fridge for a few hours, the cream believe our way has the animal’s inside to a warm shed during the will rise to the top, where you can welfare as top priority. Would you like local farm winter. take it off as a special treat or shake The cows enjoy their earlySome farmers are unable to the bottle to mix it back in. morning milking time and are produce delivered to your farm in the traditional way. Up to Our cows are pedigree Jerseys often in a rush to get into the Here 20% ofdoor? dairy cows in theat UK Farmhouse are and a few crossbreeds. The Jersey parlour. Once finished, it’s straight SOMERSET confined indoorsSomerset, all year round. we offer is one of out to graze again in the summer Dairy a three Channel Island Due to disappointing milk prices, cattle breeds. Unlike many breeds and into the warm shed in the rangeseeofnolocallymany farmers alternative produced originating in temperate climates, winter. They graze for a minimum FARMHOUSE but to food milk large volumes of including cows these cows can tolerate heat very of 180 DAIRY days a year. products to stay in business. well. Our Jerseys are friendly and ForSOMERSET enquiries and to set up milk and cream produced Our customers, through inquisitive. a regular milk delivery, please you likeatlocal by our free-range their support, enable us to farm mixedOur cows calve easily and enjoyWould visit our website www. farm a smaller herd and care for the a long-life span. Our female and farmhousedairysomerset.co.uk produce delivered to your Would you like local farm Jersey herd and bottled on
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our farm.
n NEWS We are now Join the Reading Friends delivering to
AN INITIATIVE to help overcome feelings the of isolation and loneliness Keynsham by bringing people together to celebrate a love of reading has area and we launched in Bath and North East Somerset. Reading Friends is an opportunity to meet newforward people virtually or look by phone to talk about books, magazines or any reading material. to hearing Bath & North East Somerset Council’s library service is looking fromremotely, you! meet likefor both befrienders and participants to socialise minded others and have fun talking about reading. The Reading Friends scheme is part of the Read, Talk, Share campaign launched by national charity the www.farmhousedairy Reading Agency. somerset.co.uk Anyone wishing to volunteer as a befriender or to become a participant should email Reading_Friends@bathnes.gov.uk or call farmhousedairy 01225 394041.
somerset@gmail.com
produce delivered to your door? at Farmhouse door?Here Here at Farmhouse Dairy Somerset, we offer a Dairy Somerset, offer range of locallyWould youproduced like we local farma food products including FARMHOUSE produce delivered to your door? range of locallyproduced milk and cream produced by Farmhouse our free-range mixedHere at Dairy Somerset, DAIRY food products including Jersey herd and bottled on we offer a range of locally - produced our farm. SOMERSET milk and cream produced food products including milk and cream We are now by by our mixedproduced ourfree-range free delivering to range mixed-Jersey the Keynsham herd and bottled on our farm. Jersey herd and bottled on area and we look forward our farm. We are now delivering to the Keynsham area to hearing
Would likeforward local farm you! you! and weyou look to hearingfrom from produce delivered to your www.farmhousedairy We somerset.co.uk are now Email us on door? Here at Farmhouse farmhousedairy farmhousedairysomerset@gmail.com to somerset@gmail.com Dairy Somerset, we offer a delivering on range of Follow locally-usproduced the @farmhousedairysomerset Keynsham @farmhousedairysomerset food products including area and we milk andOr cream produced see our website forlook detailsforward by our free-range mixedwww.farmhousedairysomerset.co.uk to hearing Jersey herd and bottled on from you! our farm. Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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We are now delivering to the Keynsham
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March, 2021
PEN TO PAPER
n NEWS
Pandemic service of remembrance PEOPLE whose loved ones have died during the coronavirus pandemic are being invited to join an online community service of remembrance. The Community Remembering Together Service will be broadcast on Wednesday March 24 at 7pm. It can be viewed by visiting www.youtube.com and searching for 'Bath Abbey'. The event is organised jointly by the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Dorothy House Hospice Care, Bath Abbey, SWALLOW Charity, and Bath and North East Somerset Council. RUH Lead Chaplain, the Reverend Narinder Tegally, said: “The service is intended to bring together those within the local community, who follow a professed faith or no faith, to remember all those who have died across Bath and North East Somerset, Wiltshire and Somerset at the RUH, at Dorothy House, in our local care homes and at home since the virus first arrived last year. “Not only is this an opportunity for people to remember those who have died during the Covid-19 pandemic, it is also a way for the wider community to be together, to grieve together and support all
in the local community who have had their lives significantly changed by it.” The Community Remembering Together Service will include: l An address by the Rt Revd Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton l Personal stories from two bereaved families l Reading from Wayne De Leeuw, CEO of Dorothy House Hospice Care l Prayers, readings and poetry offered from different faith traditions and none l During this service, people will be invited to light a candle at home l Music by the RUH musician in residence, and Christchurch and Bath Abbey Choirs l Closing words from Cara Charles Barks MBE, CEO of the RUH Bath l Song by SWALLOW - South West Action for Learning and Living Our Way, supporting people with learning disabilities This time of remembrance will offer a central act of devotion and remembrance for all. It will focus upon the lighting of candles as a sign of hope and renewal as well as a time of celebrating the lives of those who have died and also giving thanks for all who have cared for them.
Ring for a FREE 20 minute consultation today to break out of the limiting thoughts that run your life. Learn simple techniques that support and guide you to find freedom and excitement in your life now.
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As Long as You Can Pronounce Dun Laoghaire There was an old ghost from Dun Laoghaire,
Whose hauntings were scary and aoghaire. When he haunted the castle He caused such a hassle, But at least the nights were not draoghaire. A lecherous man from Dun Laoghaire, Whose manners were stary and laoghaire, Caused many a maid To become quite afraid. And run home to ma very taoghaire.
Santa Claus came to Dun Laoghaire, By which time he was feeling quite waoghaire, But a piece of shortcake And a dram eased his ache, And he went on his way feeling chaoghaire.
Keynsham Creative Writers always welcomes new members – contact George Liddell on 0117 914 8654.
There was an old maid from Dun Laoghaire, And although she was quite a daoghaire, She thought she could pass For a young teenage lass. What a preposterous thaoghaire. And just in case anybody’s asking “Have I got any more?” I’m getting fed up of Dun Laoghaire; The subject is making me waoghaire, So I’ll have to call time ’Cos I’ve run out of rhyme. Does that answer your quaoghaire? George Liddell
n MORE POETRY
Thoughts for Spring 2021 As snowdrops and daffs all begin to appear We’re reminded that Spring’s on the way Reducing our worries and some of our fear Helping to brighten each day. The vaccine’s been given to most who are old And beginning to show us at last That if we adhere to the rules we’ve been told Then the virus could be in the past. We must still stay inside, whenever we can When walking, respect those we meet. Then again there’ll be holidays – renew our tan! Away from the towns and the street. But as we move on, keep in mind who to thank For the courage and strength that’s been shown. So many are heroes, in every rank People helping all those on their own. And day after day as improvements we hear With encouraging news on the air The Spring and the sunshine will wipe every tear Give beneath all our masks, smiles to wear. So let’s soldier on and be patient once more Live our lives and keep positive thoughts. Be brave and resilient right through to our core Count our blessings, they’re there by the score. Sylvia Kirby
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448
Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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March, 2021
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BOOKS OF THE MONTH with Judith Thomas from Keynsham Library Adult Non-Fiction
Crops in Pots Bob Purnell
Jump into spring with this little book full of great ideas. It explains, no matter what size your garden is, how to create great vegetables and fruit throughout the year. It begins with really useful introductions on mixing edible plants with ornamentals; choosing your containers; and finally that allimportant part - which soil to use. Then it goes into great sections: starters, main courses and desserts. Each section has ideas on what to plant: salads – tomatoes and lettuces; veggies such as potatoes and peas; and dessert fruits such as blueberry and strawberries. There is even advice on fruit trees like pear and apple. Wellillustrated and a real bible for growing your own. Adult Fiction
The Seagull Ann Cleeves
It has been 20 years since Ann Cleeves introduced the world to the enigmatic detective Vera Stanhope – played brilliantly by Brenda Blethyn in the TV series of the same name. Here is a 2017 novel featuring Vera. John Brace, former police
officer and now prison inmate, has some information for Vera and her team in return for protection for his family. This information opens up a cold case, revolving around a run-down nightclub called The Seagull. This club is where Vera’s deceased father used to hang out and has unwanted memories for her. Can the cold case and her father be linked? As always, the truth is much more complicated than first thought. Ann Cleeves is a brilliant writer and evokes the North East so well and in particular the seaside resort of Whitley Bay. Young Adult Fiction
The Boy from France Hilary Freeman From the series of Camden Tales, a delightful story of Vix, who awaits the news of who will visit as part of the school’s French exchange students with feigned indifference. Vix has plenty to do with her sick mother to cope with, and no time for boys. But her student does turn
Business for Sale Successful local oven cleaning business for sale. Very simple to run, this well established franchise offers many advantages including: Immediate cash flow with work scheduled in the diary from day one. Lots of lovely repeat customers with new customers added every week. Hours to suit: part-time or full-time, one or two people. Full training and support. Experience days available.
For more information, call Myles: 07557 110 932 | ovenclean.com
Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121
out to be a boy and, what's more, he's gorgeous and charming. All her friends and schoolmates are jealous, especially when he appears to have eyes for no one but Vix. But is he for real? How long can it last? And will Vix's secrets and lies harm the relationship? A sweet, romantic tale for younger teens with a brilliant setting and characters you want to meet again. Children's Fiction Look out for your free World Book Voucher and all the exciting online events happening on March 4
No Ballet Shows in Syria Catherine Bruton Aya is 11 years old and lives with her mother and baby brother. They are seeking a home from war-torn Syria. They have left Aleppo and moved from refugee camps to a bedsit in Manchester. However, one day Aya stumbles across a local ballet class and a rather fierce dance teacher. She shows great potential and could even earn herself a place at a prestigious dance school. Huge uncertainty arises about whether she and her family can stay, and there has been no news of her father. A beautiful, moving and ultimately uplifting story.
Shadowsea Peter Bunzl Enter the world of Cogheart - it is 1897 in New York and we meet Lily, Robert and their mechanical fox, Malkin. Follow them in their adventures and the chilling goings-on in their hotel. A strange boy is being held captive and a creepy professor has a dangerous plan. As they search for clues, they are drawn into the watery, submerged world under the city. Is that a submarine they use? Read on and find out in the final outing of the Cogheart Adventures.
Library News Always remember the two super free apps - RB Digital and BorrowBox - where you can download newspapers, magazines and audio books, all with the use of your library card. The Bath and North East Somerset ‘Virtual Library’ is still offering something for everyone. We are sharing facts, Baby Bounce and Rhyme, competitions, Storytime and crafts for children in the mornings, and information, support, news and recommended reads for adults in the afternoon. Never miss a thing by following us on Facebook www.facebook. com/bathneslibraries1, Instagram www.instagram.com/bathnes_ libraries, and Twitter www.twitter. com/BathnesL
CLARKSON’S INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS LTD 489B Bath Road, Saltford 01225 873535 “A truly personal and caring service” contact@clarksonsfuneraldirectors.com www.clarksonsfuneraldirectors.co.uk Bath branch: 01225 426822 Frome branch: 01373 463888
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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March, 2021
n 1st KEYNSHAM SCOUTS
Cubs go virtual to meet firefighter Joe WHILE 1st Keynsham Scouts are keen to get back to face-to-face sessions, everyone has been working hard to deliver the best virtual programme possible. In February, Cotswold Cubs had a visit from a real-life firefighter. Firefighter Joe, crew manager for Avon Fire & Rescue Service, joined a Zoom call to discuss fire safety. The Cubs learned about the varied roles of a firefighter, and how to stay safe at home and around campfires. Joe shared his personal experiences and answered their questions, including what has been his funniest moment, his scariest moment and — of course — how fast does a fire engine go! Akela Julie, Cotswold Cubs leader, said: “It was a great session, which delivered very important safety messages".
Joe said: “Usually Avon Fire & Rescue Service would welcome Cub packs to their local fire stations, but this has had to change. This has involved speaking to groups such as Cub Scouts on online platforms to educate, give advice and answer questions about the fire service. “The 1st Keynsham Cotswold Cub pack had some brilliant and thoughtful questions, and it was a pleasure speaking to them all.” They loved speaking to Joe so much that one of the Cubs drew a portrait of Joe. We thought it was quite lifelike! Cotswold Cubs have also been kept busy with a spy agent weekend, where they built dens and ‘checked in’ for various missions. Secret identities were maintained using sunglasses and moustaches, and the weekend was
thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. Meanwhile, Chew Troop have been making lanterns, baking flapjacks and planting seeds ready for spring. Axe Troop have been working on their Craft Activity badge in the half term, and we can’t wait to see what they’ve been making! Finally, a big thank-you goes
to parents, carers, our leaders and those behind the scenes, who over the last 12 months have kept so many young people Scouting in Keynsham. There have been lots of badges earnt and new skills developed, but we’re all ready to go back to face-to-face Scouting outdoors in the near future.
ADVERTISING FEATURE A spotlight on bandwidth
Crackdown on misleading broadband advertising
B
andwidth is the amount of data that can travel through an internet connection at any given time and is a vital component in broadband. When considering the quality of broadband, most people think of speeds, but speeds alone won’t get you far – bandwidth will. And this vital piece of knowledge is set to be a key factor on a consumer’s purchasing radar. Think of bandwidth as a motorway at rush hour. The number of lanes available can’t cope with the number of cars travelling, and traffic jams are caused. Having enough bandwidth gives you your own private fast lane so you can digitally speed past the backed-up traffic. Simply put, if you want a great broadband, you need a strong bandwidth capacity, not just fast speeds alone. In 2021 we will see this translate into consumers comparing not just upload/ download speeds but also bandwidth capacity for different packages. Bandwidth will become a key differentiator for broadband services, following the lead set by the mobile phone industry, where plans are based on data not speeds.
Increased demand for mesh Wi-Fi There is a general misconception that Wi-Fi speeds are the same as those you get when connected directly to a router. This is simply not the case. Wi-Fi is transmitted via a signal and can be affected by things such as thick walls and router location.
Get in fast lane to stay connected Therefore, permanent solutions to wide ranging and super reliable Wi-Fi will be at the top of the tech must-have lists. Ultimately, we’ll see the adoption of mesh Wi-Fi systems which provide a more stable Wi-Fi connection throughout properties. An added advantage is that they allow parents to safeguard children’s online activities with a range of advanced parental controls. The adoption of these systems will also coincide with the increase of smart appliances such as doorbells, fridges and TVs becoming more widespread.
Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121
Consumers are bombarded with advertising for ‘fibre’ broadband, which is often a part-fibre and part-copper wire system - aka Fibre-To-TheCabinet. These part-fibre infrastructures predominantly advertise their fastest possible speeds, but only deliver ‘up to’ or ‘average’ speeds - unlike the superior full-fibre (aka FibreTo-The-Property) networks that actually deliver guaranteed speeds 24/7. Transparent advertising will help consumers understand exactly what their broadband provider is offering, provide realistic service expectations and allow them to choose services that meets their needs. Therefore, in 2021, driven by growing industry demand for less obfuscation and consumers becoming more broadband savvy, we will see a phasing-out of misleading promotional messages by the part-copper providers altogether.
Gigabit broadband Gigabit-capable broadband is full-fibre (FTTP) broadband that has the ability to deliver speeds of 1Gpbs or 1000Mbps. In 2021 the demand for gigabit-capable broadband will surge as consumers discover it’s the best long-term solution for ever-increasing online demands. l Truespeed is rolling out its full-fibre, gigabit capable network and has a range of packages from £29.99 a month and speeds up to 900Mbps. To find out more, visit truespeed.com
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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March, 2021
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n NEWS
Nick's epic ride for Mencap WHEN Nick Look wanted to help a Keynsham charity club he attends, he didn’t let lockdown stand in the way of a big challenge. Nick, 39, decided to cycle the distance from John O’Groats to Land’s End on an exercise bike to raise money for Keynsham Mencap, which provides leisure and social opportunities for 150 people with learning disabilities and autism. Nick, who has Down’s syndrome, is a member of the charity’s Club 25 for adults, and wanted to support them because he enjoys the events and holidays they organise. The charity has had to suspend its regular events because of coronavirus restrictions but is continuing to organise activities and fitness sessions over Zoom, and make sociallydistanced visits to members. Having started cycling for a couple of hours a day at his mum’s house in Pucklechurch to keep fit during lockdown, Nick decided to attempt the equivalent of the 840 miles it takes to cycle from one end of the country to another. He aimed to complete the challenge by Easter and raise £500 in the process. But not only is Nick pedalling more than 30 miles a day, he is racking up hundreds of donations, and had already raised more than £3,700, including gift aid, as the Voice went to press.
Nick, who is staying with his mum during lockdown but usually lives in his own flat, said he decided on the challenge because he was keen to continue to exercise, which had helped him lose five stone over the past two years. He said: “I don’t find it hard at all – my bum gets sore, but only occasionally!” Nick has been boosted by the comments and good wishes he has had on social media, which he said made him cheerful and proud of himself. He said: “I am totally amazed at people who sponsored me, who have been so generous, giving so much money for Mencap.” His mum Rosemary said Nick had been a member of Keynsham Mencap’s “brilliant” volunteer-run clubs since he was eight or nine years old, and had carried on attending after leaving home to live independently 15 years ago. She said: “We are all astounded at people’s generosity.” Amanda Leonard of Keynsham Mencap said all the money raised would go straight to supporting members. She said: “This is an amazing amount of money and we are truly grateful.” To donate online, visit easydonate.org/ NICK
Steve Bellamy Ctta eeetllsllaam S e myy S ev vre epB B
LOW LOW
Keynsham Mencap supporter Nick Look
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36
March, 2021
n ADVERTISING FEATURE
A trusted name in art and antiques for over 160 years
FOUNDED in 1860, Clevedon Salerooms is one of the longestestablished fine art auction houses in the South West. We hold regular Interiors sales and specialist Fine Art auctions. Our popular Interiors sales offer a diverse range of antiques and later furnishings and collectables, whilst our quarterly specialist Fine Art auctions attract buyers from around the world. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can assist with all aspects of
Above, Clevedon Salerooms Managing Director Marc Burridge Right, Chris Yeo – pictured on Antiques Roadshow with presenter Fiona Bruce – has joined the Clevedon Salesrooms team buying and selling as well as certified valuations for probate, insurance and family division. Our experienced valuers are always happy to provide free sale estimates, either by email or, where appropriate, by home visit. The start of 2021 saw us welcoming Chris Yeo to our valuations team. Chris is a familiar face to many from his appearances on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, which he joined in 2015. As well as playing an important part in cataloguing our specialist
Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers
Fine Art auctions and our regular Interiors sales, Chris will be using his skills to develop our reputation for 20th century design – due in no small part to his curatorship of the renowned Ken Stradling Collection in Bristol, a post which he will continue to hold. Chris looks forward to meeting
the public to deal with a broad spectrum of valuation enquiries. This appointment enhances our team of valuers covering Bristol, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, complementing our existing coverage of Clevedon, Somerset, and the wider South West and Wales.
Late 19th Century Chinese Export camphor wood Campaign-style chest of drawers, attributed to Sui Kee Chan
A Trusted Presence Since 1860 Our friendly and experienced team continue working throughout Lockdown, offering a full range of services, including: •
• •
Online Auctions with telephone and commission bidding
Free valuations by email and telephone Valuations for probate and insurance
Please contact us for more information
Covid secure home visits available www.csrauctions.com 01934 830 111 info@csrauctions.com Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21 6TT
Valued over email ~ Sold for £1,300
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448
Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
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March, 2021
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n NEWS
Last chance to nominate your heroes TIME is running out to nominate your local heroes in Saltford. The parish council is welcoming nominations for the SPC Community Awards 2021. The deadline is March 5. After a year in which so many stepped forward to help the community, the parish council wants to ensure that those who have contributed have the chance to be recognised. This year it has doubled the number of award categories to reflect the outstanding efforts of those in Saltford who have offered help and support during the Covid-19 pandemic. Awards recognise individuals and groups
that have made and are making a positive contribution to Saltford life, and who show leadership, initiative or commitment in the local community. Categories are as follows: l Young person of the year in Saltford award l Young person of the year in Saltford award – Covid-19 response l Volunteer team of the year in Saltford award l Volunteer team of the year in Saltford award – Covid-19 response l Saltford – achievement award l Saltford – achievement award – Covid-19 response l Business in the community award
l Business in the community award – Covid-19 response Anyone can nominate an individual, group or business for a community award. Nomination forms and criteria information is available at www.saltfordparishcouncil. gov.uk Winners will receive a certificate and £75 towards their chosen Saltford group, project, cause or charity. SPC hopes to combine the postponed 2020 awards with 2021’s ceremony on Friday May 21 at Saltford Hall (pending regulations). More information will be shared nearer the time.
Christopher brings you the news for 100th time THIS edition of Keynsham Voice marks a milestone for Christopher Day. It is the 100th issue he has delivered to our readers on his route in Saltford. Christopher, aged 68, who lives in the village, said: “Delivering the Voice gets me out and about and I meet people on route.” He began delivering the Voice
after retiring from the Ministry of Defence in 2012 after 43 years, working in London then Abbey Wood and also for a time at Foxhill. He has been secretary of Frys Bowls Club for 15 years and in 2018 was honoured with life membership of the club. Christopher added: “I like most sports, and have been a football referee for 48 years.”
Making Life Better
Live happily and confidently in your own home with award-winning care and support.
He has been married for 35 years to Janet, who works in the inclusion department of Wellsway School, where she was a student. They have two sons. Keynsham Voice publisher Emma Cooper paid tribute to Christopher, saying: “Our longeststanding distributor, his route covers many roads in Saltford. Through rain or shine, he always delivers.”
Voice distributor Christopher Day
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Lays Farm, Charlton Road, Keynsham, BS31 2SE Tel/Fax : 0117 9866172 www.pricerightbuildings.co.uk
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
E VELEIGHS SALTFORD
FOR SALE
**Viewing Advised** 3 bed semi-detached house with garage, parking and gardens. £350,000 OIEO KEYNSHAM
FOR SALE
**Viewing Advised** Somerdale Development, 3 bed semi-detached house with parking, close to Keynsham High St. £350,000 Offers Over SALTFORD
FOR SALE
**Closed Chain** detached 4 bed, Cul de Sac location, mature gardens, parking and garage. £610,000 OIRO.
info@eveleighs.com
Saltford: 01225 360360 Keynsham: 0117 904 9000 KEYNSHAM
FOR SALE
**Popular Location** A well presented 2 bed detached bungalow with driveway, garage and south facing rear garden. £499,950 OIRO SALTFORD
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**Private Rd** A well-presented 3 bed detached bungalow with mature gardens, driveway and garage. £587,500 Offers Over. KEYNSHAM
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**Central Location** 2 bed ground floor apartment, secure parking, communal patio area. No onward chain. £219,995 OIRO
www.eveleighs.com
keynshamvoice
March, 2021
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PROPERTY Albert Road, Keynsham OIRO £499,950 A well-presented 2/3 bedroom detached bungalow situated close to Keynsham High Street. This lovely property benefits from uPVC double glazing, gas-fired central heating, open-plan kitchen/dining room, a well-maintained south-facing rear garden with driveway, and single garage. An internal inspection is highly recommended. Keynsham is ideally situated between Bristol and Bath and is well serviced by good road and rail networks. The property is within easy walking distance of Keynsham High Street, which offers a variety of shops, public houses and restaurants. It has an award-winning Memorial Park, together with excellent primary and secondary schools.
Arrange your viewing with Eveleighs on 0117 904 9000
STORAGE / SELF STORE STORAGE
Should you need to store items, Wild & Lye Removals are able to offer you a variety of Secure & Confidential storage facilities to suit your household or commercial storage requirements, from single boxes to entire households or office contents. Whilst your goods are in storage, they are placed in our secure and alarmed warehouse . We offer this service at great prices, Our friendly, trustworthy and professional staff will surely be able to cater to your every need.
REMOVALS REMOVALS
Wild and Lye comprises of a team of fully trained moving staff who are at hand to make sure that your move goes without a hitch. We have many years experience in the removal business and pride ourselves in offering a fantastic service to every client. Our professional removals team will take care of your every requirement from securely packing your goods, transporting your items to the required destination and then delicately unpacking all your valuables at your desired location.
Please callmaterials to discuss Packing your requirements and available for purchase prices available onrates request competitive
Unit 5 Ashmead Park, Ashmead Road, Keynsham, BS31 1SX Telephone: 0117 986 2545 E-Mail: info@wildandlyeremovals.co.uk www.wildandlyeremovals.co.uk Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
Trusted property property professionals professionals Trusted serving the community for serving the community for Trusted property professionals over half a century. Trustedover property professionals half a century.
fireplace, deep window seats, solid oak doors and exposed beams to name a few. EPC exempt fireplace, deep window seats, solid oak doors and exposed beams to name a few. EPC exempt
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KEYNSHAM GUIDE £450,000 £450,000 KEYNSHAM GUIDE An imposing 4 bed dwelling sitting proudly upon the prestigious An imposing 4 bed dwelling sitting proudly upon the prestigious 'Wellsway' that affords far reaching views. A rare opportunity to 'Wellsway' that affords far reaching views. A rare opportunity to acquire a substantial home with a huge potential EPC F acquire a substantial home with a huge potential EPC F
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KEYNSHAM £375,000 KEYNSHAM £375,000 A well presented 3 bedroom semi-detached home located in a A well presented 3 bedroom semi-detached home located in a quiet cul-de-sac that benefits from a substantial extension to the quiet cul-de-sac that benefits from a substantial extension to the side creating a larger than typical accommodation. EPC awaited. side creating a larger than typical accommodation. EPC awaited.
KEYNSHAM £375,000 KEYNSHAM £375,000 A well presented 3 bedroom semi-detached home located in a A well presented 3 bedroom semi-detached home located in a quiet cul-de-sac that benefits from a substantial extension to the quiet cul-de-sac that benefits from a substantial extension to the side creating a larger than typical accommodation. EPC awaited. side creating a larger than typical accommodation. EPC awaited.
UPTON CHEYNEY CHEYNEY £280,000 UPTON £280,000 A picture perfect 17th century cottage tucked away within a A picture perfect 17th century cottage tucked away within a secluded position in a highly regarded village. A delightful home that secluded position in a highly regarded village. A delightful home that enjoys wonderful views of surrounding countryside. EPC E. enjoys wonderful views of surrounding countryside. EPC E.
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£610,000 £500,000 £595,000 £500,000 £695,000 £595,000 £500,000 £695,000
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well cared cared forthe and excellently presented double bedroom A strikingly attractive individually designed 4four bedroom house of Dating backattractive to the mid 1700s, this this attractive4four former farm house AAstrikingly well for and excellently presented double bedroom A individually designed bedroom house of Dating back to mid 1700s, attractive former farm house large south facing plot accommodation of after over 0.5 acre. Beautifully presented quality enjoying aasituated sought position in the heart of the village detached home situated in a highly sought after cul de sac on the quality enjoying sought after position in the heart of the village enjoys well-appointed that boasts extensive detached home in a highly sought after cul de sac on quality enjoying a sought after position in the heart of the village enjoys well-appointed accommodation that boasts extensive the versatile accommodation approximately 3476with sq ft. Sat Scope forthe close to popular primary school and village hall. within Wellsway side of town. town. A delightful delightful property versatile living QUEEN CHARLTON £650,000 close to the the popular primary school and village hall. Sat within character throughout and enjoys anproperty enviable position within Wellsway side of A with versatile living QUEEN CHARLTON £650,000 close to the popular primary school and village hall. Sat within character throughout and enjoys an enviable position within the This charming 4 bedroom semi-detached home has been subject to painstaking restoration by EPC the current residential home working. EPC D DD mature, well stocked grounds with aa superb rear garden. space well suited toand family enjoyment. EPC CD This charming 4 bedroom semi-detached home has been subject toDouble painstaking restoration by the current mature, wellannexe stocked grounds with superb rear garden. EPC picturesque hamlet offamily Queen Charlton. EPC D garage. space suited enjoyment. EPC C ownersmature, with greatwell attention paid totothe preservation of original features including imposing inglenook well stocked grounds with a superb rear garden. EPC D hamlet of Queen Charlton. EPC ownerspicturesque with great attention paid to the preservation of original features including imposing inglenook
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£650,000 OIEO £850,000 £950,000 £750,000 KEYNSHAM £675,000 MARKSBURY £750,000 QUEEN CHARLTON KEYNSHAM £675,000 MARKSBURY £750,000 QUEEN CHARLTON £850,000 house with stunning views andof AAttractive strikinglyindividual attractivedetached individually designed 4 bedroom house
This charming 4 bedroom semi-detached home has been subject to painstaking restoration by the current This charming 4 bedroom semi-detached home has been subject to painstaking restoration by the current owners with great attention paid to the preservation of original features including imposing inglenook owners with great attention paid to the preservation of original features including imposing inglenook fireplace, deep window seats, solid oak doors and exposed beams to name a few. EPC exempt fireplace, deep window seats, solid oak doors and exposed beams to name a few. EPC exempt
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KEYNSHAM £190,000 KEYNSHAM £190,000 Situated on the upper floor of a modern purpose built complex, this Situated on the upper floor of a modern purpose built complex, this centrally located 1 bedroom apartment boasts a selection of centrally located 1 bedroom apartment boasts a selection of amenities within easy reach. Marketed with no onward chain. EPC B amenities within easy reach. Marketed with no onward chain. EPC B
KEYNSHAM SALTFORD KEYNSHAM SALTFORD SALTFORD KEYNSHAM
£665,000 £495,000 £465,000 £420,000 £465,000 £665,000 £495,000 £465,000
KEYNSHAM SALTFORD KEYNSHAM SALTFORD KEYNSHAM
£300,000 £375,000 OIEO £378,000 £325,000 £378,000 OIEO £300,000 £375,000 £378,000
superior detached bungalow withbelieved well-appointed spacious well presented presented and neutrally decorated 3 bedroom bedroom home Dating back to the the late 1920s and believed to have been originally ADating delightful stone built period cottage ininsemi-detached an position inin the Located within extremely ‘Somerdale’ development, Modern semi-detached housepopular in much sought after cul deand sac An immaculately presented 4 bedroom home Situated on thethe edge of town and nearby field A delightful stone built period cottage an idyllic idyllic position the Located within the extremely popular ‘Somerdale’ development, A superior detached bungalow with well-appointed spacious AA well and neutrally decorated 3onto home back to late 1920s and to have been originally Modern semi-detached house in aafronting much sought after cul de sac delightful stone built period cottage in an idyllic position in the Located within the extremely popular ‘Somerdale’ development, accommodation set in inMill pleasant gardens on the edge edge of the thetown. enjoying athis pleasant cul-de-sac setting only a‘Savy’ few hundred yards constructed for local local Mill workers, thisthe well cared forriverside three heart of village” Conservation Area close to walks this 33area, bedroom home of the style offers close to the village primary school. Hallway, 2few interlinked located a “old residential cul-de-sac on Wellsway side of play 3semi-detached bedroom terraced home is ‘Savy’ positioned a heart ofinthe the “old village” Conservation Area close to riverside walks this bedroom semi-detached home ofonly the stylewithin offers accommodation set pleasant gardens on the of enjoying a pleasant cul-de-sac setting a hundred yards constructed for workers, this well cared for three close to the village primary school. Hallway, 2 interlinked heart of the “old village” Conservation Area close to riverside walks this 3 bedroom semi-detached home of the ‘Savy’ style offers KEYNSHAM OFFICE OFFICE T: 0117 0117 9863681 9863681 LETTINGS T: T: 0117 0117 9868300 9868300 KEYNSHAM T: LETTINGS village. Garden room, luxury kitchen/dining room, 3 beds, from nearby playing fields. This delightful, modern home is bedroom home sits within generous gardens on the Wellsway side and local pubs. Boasting an abundance of charm and character recently re-decorated accommodation well-suited to growing reception rooms, conservatory, kitchen, 3 bedrooms & shower The property has been finished to a superb standard and offers few hundred yards of the Wellsway school complex and is likely and local pubs. Boasting an abundance of charm and character recently re-decorated accommodation well-suited to growing KEYNSHAM £190,000 village. Garden room, luxury kitchen/dining room, 3 beds, from nearby playing fields. This delightful, is bedroom home sits within gardens on the Wellsway side reception rooms, conservatory, kitchen, 3 modern bedrooms & shower and local pubs. Boasting angenerous abundance of charm and character re-decorated accommodation well-suited tohome growing KEYNSHAM £190,000 SALTFORD OFFICE T: 01225 400400 T:recently 01225 400400 Situated ontown. the upper floor of a modern purpose built complex, this SALTFORD OFFICE 01225 T: 01225 400400 en suite family bathroom. Garage &T: driveway. EPCEPC C AUCTION suited to familiesto and ismarket marketed with onward chain. EPC ofon Self-contained 1with bed annex. EPC E 400400 throughout and no upward sales chain. EAUCTION families. Offered to the with complete onward chain. EPC room. Established gardens. Garage & long long driveway. EPC C larger than typical accommodation. EPC Awaited to be ofEstablished interest families. EPC Dwith Situated the upper floor of aavailable modern purpose built complex, this throughout and available with no upward sales chain. EPC E families. Offered toand theis market with complete onward chain. EPC en suite && family bathroom. Garage driveway. EPC C suited to families marketed aa onward chain. EPC BB BBB of town. Self-contained 1 bed annex. EPC E room. gardens. Garage & driveway. EPC C centrally located 1 bedroom apartment boasts a OFFICE selection of &T: throughout and available with no upward sales chain. EPC E families. Offered to the market with complete onward chain. EPC ASSOCIATED PARK LANE 0203 368 3869 www.daviesandway.com centrally located 1 bedroom apartment boasts a selection of ASSOCIATED OFFICE T:B0203 amenities within easy reach.PARK MarketedLANE with no onward chain. EPC amenities within easy reach. Marketed with no onward chain. EPC B
KEYNSHAM OFFICE OFFICE KEYNSHAM SALTFORD OFFICE SALTFORD OFFICE ASSOCIATED PARK PARK LANE LANE OFFICE OFFICE ASSOCIATED
368 3869
T: 0117 0117 9863681 9863681 T: T: 01225 400400 T: 01225 400400 T: 0203 368 3869 T: 0203 368 3869
www.daviesandway.com
LETTINGS T: T: 0117 0117 9868300 9868300 LETTINGS AUCTION T: 01225 400400 AUCTION T: 01225 400400 www.daviesandway.com www.daviesandway.com
keynshamvoice
March, 2021
41
n KEYNSHAM AMATEUR SWIMMING CLUB
S
ince the Prime Minister unveiled plans for his roadmap out of lockdown, organisations like Keynsham Amateur Swimming Club have been looking forward to a return in April. Until then Keynsham will continue with its Zoom schedule of cooking, coach catch-ups and land training. With swimming on hold for another five weeks, this month we’ll take a look behind-thescenes to see how an amateur swimming club runs, and focus on some of the roles that are integral to its smooth running.
Coaches Keynsham has a team of more than 20 coaches, assistant coaches and trainee coaches, most of whom are volunteers. Each squad has a head coach who, when not poolside, is at home planning sets and thinking about how to enable each swimmer to achieve their full potential - the ethos that Keynsham Amateur Swimming Club is based on. Coaches come from a range of backgrounds - those who swam previously with the club, those who swam when younger, or parents of current swimmers.
Gem Vernon (treasurer) and Gemma Weymouth (meet manager) on a safeguarding training course
The tireless team keeps our club afloat
Committee Keynsham is run by a committee, whose members include a chairperson, vice-chairperson, club secretary, treasurer, swimming secretary, membership secretary, meet manager, social secretary, coach liaison officer, lead Covid officer, volunteer co-ordinator, communications and marketing manager, and Swim Mark co-ordinator. Everyone on the committee either has or had a swimmer who swam with Keynsham. The committee meets monthly, usually with tea and snacks but currently with a laptop and an intermittent wi-fi connection. They make decisions on behalf of the club and take on duties to ensure everything runs smoothly. Its purpose is to serve the club members. This means you need the right people with the right skills, the right experience and lots of enthusiasm.
Welfare Every swimming club has a welfare officer. Keynsham is lucky to have two people who share the post. The welfare officer’s role is essential in providing a first point of contact for children, parents and adults within the club who have a child safeguarding or welfare concern. Our welfare team have been especially busy over the last year carrying out many risk assessments to ensure Keynsham operate within Covid-19 guidance set out by Swim England and the pool providers.
Poolside helpers Keynsham has many poolside helpers to assist the coaching team. A poolside helper supports the delivery of club sessions under the supervision of a qualified teacher or coach. You need to be over 14 years old, and many of Keynsham’s poolside helpers are the club’s top swimmers, who give back by helping out
Chris Metcalfe, Keynsham ASC secretary and Somerset ASA official, and Sally Goddard, one of two KASC welfare officers
The next generation Keynsham now has space for swimmers aged 5 to 8 in the prelim squad (school years Reception, 1, 2 and 3). If your child can swim one length (25 metres) of front crawl and backstroke, they may be just what Keynsham are looking for. Trials will take place at Keynsham pool after lockdown, so now would be a good time to get onto the list. Swimmers from all ages (including over-18s) can apply for a trial. Contact thea.beament@keynshamswimming.club or enquire via the club’s Facebook page. with the younger squads. Quite often it is an excellent way of gaining a Duke of Edinburgh award. Some of the helpers are parents who just want to become involved. Many then go on to take a coaching course or two.
Lifeguards Since the return to the water last year during the pandemic, some pool operators have been asking swimming clubs to provide their own lifeguards during sessions. This is an essential volunteer role - without a lifeguard, no swimming can go ahead.
To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448
Medal moment After weeks of waiting, Laura B (11 years) has received the bronze medal she was awarded in January for her incredible third place in 100m butterfly on the national leader board for Level-X Series 1. Jasper Lye, regional squad head coach, said: “This is the result of dedication and hard work, a talented young swimmer who will undoubtedly progress further as the season goes on. “Laura is a part of Keynsham’s growing regional squad and I anticipate many other swimmers achieving similar results.”
Covid reps New to the line-up of what makes a swimming club work are the Covid reps. Their role is to ensure that Covid-19 guidelines are followed, to keep a lane register and check the temperatures of all club members going poolside at arrival.
Officials When there is competitive swimming, each club is expected to provide officials to support the meets. Officials are all volunteers, and the entry point to becoming a swimming official is as a timekeeper. Then there are various levels of judges who check that each swim is within the rules, of which there are very many. You can be disqualified just for having a hair band on your wrist! Other key official roles include starter and referee.
Additional supporting roles There are many other volunteer roles that sometimes get overlooked yet are essential in the running of the club and take up a fair amount of time. Those could be organising kit sales, fundraising, team manager, meet marshalling or helping at the front of house at swim galas, meet runners or squad secretaries. There really is a role for everyone, both young and old.
Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
keynshamvoice
42
March, 2021
n SALTFORD GOLF CLUB Last month’s issue of the Voice included an article from Keynsham and Saltford Local History Society about the clarions that feature on the badges and logos of a number of organisations in Keynsham. It has prompted this response from Saltford Golf Club about the origins of its own crest
The history of golf club's shield
S
altford Golf Club’s shield carries six golden clarions or trumpets on a red background. The design comes from the arms of Keynsham Abbey, which was founded in around 1166 by William, Earl of Gloucester and Lord of the Manor of Glamorgan, under whom a family called Granville held the lordship of Neath. Sir Richard de Granville, founder of Neath Abbey, had close links with Keynsham Abbey. The
Granvilles later became Earls of Bath. The armorial bearings of Keynsham Abbey were formed
by combining the three clarions of Neath Abbey with the three Clarions on the Granville coat of arms. Situated below are flowing blue and white lines which represent the rivers Chew and Avon. The helm and mantling are in red and gold. Above the helm is an unusual coronet, which links the area to its Roman past. The golden dragon relates to the Dragon of Wessex, the Royal West Saxon connection to Keynsham. Around the dragon’s neck is a necklace of brass wire on which is suspended a cogwheel relating to the importance of the former British brass industry in Keynsham. The dragon holds between its
claws the basic arms of the Bridges family, who bought the abbey lands in 1552 and built a mansion. “Maintien Le Droit” was the Bridges’ motto. The adoption of these armorial bearings was very appropriate as it covers the history of Keynsham and Saltford over one thousand years. Set in 151 acres of stunning woodland, Saltford golf course founded in 1904 and was originally leased from the Earl Temple for £325 per year. Upon his death, the land was bought by the Duchy of Cornwall in 1941. The entrance to this part of the estate, Pigs Path Lane, was also renamed to a more pleasant title of Golf Club Lane!
n FRYS BOWLING CLUB
Why not join us for new season? WITH the arrival of spring and the government announcing the restart of outdoor sports at the end of March, Frys Bowling Club are starting to plan for the new bowls season. If you are looking for something new to try this summer, or have played bowls before and want to get back into the game, and you want to meet new people, why not come and join us? Our season runs from mid-April to the end of September. The club play friendly matches on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, and for those who like a competitive match, we play in the Bristol and District League on Thursday evenings, as well as a number of cup matches. We also offer internal club competitions and there are plenty of opportunities for those who prefer to play socially. The club will look to offer as much play as
the regulations from Bowls England and the government allow. For more information about Frys Bowling Club, or if you wish to apply for membership or arrange tuition, please contact
Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121
our secretary, Christopher Day, on 01225 872959, email frysbowlsclub@gmail.com. You can also visit our website for more information: www.frysbowlsclub.webs.com
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
keynshamvoice
March, 2021 ACCOUNTANT
APPLIANCE REPAIRS
43 BUILDING SERVICES
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keynshamvoice
44 CAR BODY REPAIRS
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• Rewiring • Minor alterations • Security Lighting & Alarms 01275 832830 07831 534766 NICEIC Approved Contractor Member of Checkatrade.com
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Free Quotes Inspection and Testing Landlord Certificates New builds and Extensions Extra Sockets and Lights Fire Alarms, Smoke Detectors
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Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
March, 2021 ELECTRICIAN
keynshamvoice GARAGE SERVICES
45 GARDEN SERVICES
Keynsham Tree Removal & Stump Grinding
• Tree felling • Stump grinding • All tree & hedge work undertaken • Fencing • Waste removal • Mini Digger & Operator • Good rates & reliable service
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RElectrical A Moon Services
GARDEN SERVICES
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Good Grounds & Gardens Good Grounds & Gardens
Specialists in wildlife Regular one-offgardens garden ponds or & nature maintenance Garden rescue, redesign and planting Local friendly service with over 30 yrs experience Specialists in wildlife gardening Rewires Consumer Units Extra Points Orchard restoration wildlife ponds Electrical Installation Condition Reports and&tree-pruning Fault Finding Seasonal maintenance Private & commercial work Domestic - Commercial - Industrial Installation - Testing - Maintenance
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GARDEN SERVICES
Full liability insurance
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For a quality, comprehensive and efficient garden service • Maintenence • Make over • Private / Commercial Contact Chris Knowles RHs dip, Nch hort
T: 07794 701637
E: christopher.knowles@mypostoffice.co.uk
GARDEN SERVICES ALL TREE & GARDEN WORKS
• DECKING • FENCING • GATES FULLY QUALIFIED - FULLY INSURED REGISTERED WASTE CARRIER T:0117 9864197 M: 07854 110595 E: terrybur80@gmail.com
Got News? Call Keynsham Voice on 0117 9082121
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All work fully insured
• All Tree work undertaken • Hedges Reduced & Shaped • Fencing & Decking • Driveways • Patios & Paths • Garden walls Est 10 years
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D. ATTWELL
LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES For All Garden Works Patios – Decking Gravelling – Fencing Wood Chippings – Jetwashing Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Garden Walls & General Building
• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER
For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk
Email news@keynshamvoice.co.uk
keynshamvoice
46 GARDEN SERVICES
OVEN CLEANING
March, 2021 PET CARE
Tiler • Mason • Painter
Classic & Natural stone tiles High Quality Finish Specialising in Italian showers Free Quote Contemporary & Provençale kitchens Bristol & Surrounding Areas Interior & Exterior Masonry AND DECORATING PAINTING Interior & façade painting
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W: www.latchetskennels.co.uk PET CARE
Renovation Painter Tiler Decorator To advertise contact Emma on 0117 908 2121. Prices start from £18.33+ VAT per month
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M JJ CRAWFORD M CRAWFORD CARPENTRY CARPENTRY & & KITCHEN KITCHEN FITTING SERVICES FITTING LTD
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To advertise, contact Emma on 0117 9082121 or 07715770448
Email Emma@keynshamvoice.co.uk
keynshamvoice
March, 2021 PLUMBING SERVICES
PLUMBING SERVICES
TILING SERVICES
Bathroom, Kitchen & Floor Tiling
Shower faulty Electric showers repaired,sold & fitted competitive rates fast service Tel Paul at pj Home Electrical 07774747834 or 0117 2302010 approved
47
Keynsham based
website: bathshowersbristol
No Call out Charge
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Mosaic, Travertine, Porceline & Ceramic Specialists
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Andy 01454 602506 or 07468 791619 Email: arhys-jones@sky.com A Keynsham business
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All aspects of Tree Surgery & Hedge Maintenance
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0117 9864273/07748118266 www.pinnacletreeservices.co.uk PLUMBING SERVICES
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EST 2004
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WIGS
Wigs Bristol
LOCATED IN DOWNEND
We have been supplying all types of wigs and hairpieces for fashion and medical purposes for 45 years. Wigs can be purchased off the peg or made to measure in hair or synthetic fibre. We stock many styles and makes.
Please book an appointment on:
0117 956 6556 www.wigsbristol.com
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