South Bristol Voice January 2018 by South Bristol Voice

southbristolvoice January 2018 No. 32

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SHOCK FOR CAMPAIGNERS WHO THOUGHT POOL SAFE

Jubilee pool is at risk – again MONTHS after campaigners fighting to save Jubilee swimming pool were told that it had never been under threat, a new proposal for closure has been published by the council. Officially, a shutdown for the Knowle swimming pool is just one option in a long-term plan that considers what might happen in five years’ time. But campaigners fear the new stance, revealed in a draft strategy for Bristol city council’s leisure facilities, shows the writing is on the wall for the pool. A key recommendation at the end of the document, A Sport and Active Recreation Facility Strategy for Bristol 2017-2022, Continued on page 3

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n WORK to enlarge and improve the car park at Redcatch park is expected to begin in February. One of the aims is to improve access for disabled people who are unable to use the park unless they drive there. Meanwhile council parks officials are drawing up plans for a new entrance to the park from Redcatch Road, at the west end on the side nearest Stoneleigh Road. New exercise equipment, funded by a grant from Tesco, is expected to be announced in February.

n VOICE readers are being asked to help a relative of a Southville grocer recover lost memories. Terry Hammond is hoping someone can give him a photo of a grocer’s shop at 2A Leighton Road, Southville, run by his aunt, Sybil Shepherd, in the 1950s and 60s. His late mother, Dorothy Rowley, lived in Marmaduke Street, near Victoria Park and there is a connection with the Rowley family of 56 Greville Road, Southville. Any information to terry_ hammond1@yahoo.co.uk

n THE FRIENDS OF the Avon New Cut, or Franc, are among groups urging residents to respond to the council’s consultation on parks and open spaces. The New Cut was designated as a Local Nature Reserve in 2015, and Franc fears it could be affected by future reductions in the council’s parks budget. The closing date for the consultation is January 29. Franc organises regular clear-up events along the banks off Coronation Road and York Road. • bristol.gov.uk/parksconsultation

n THE Alliance Française offers the chance to revive your rusty French (or discover it!) with friendly lessons all around Bristol, plus workshops and events, including at the Hen & Chicken in Southville. The next workshop on Saturday January 20 will have you singing French classics and modern songs. No singing experience necessary. You can also learn to cook in French, join a café scientifique or book club, enjoy drama and a free cinéclub. • afbristol.org.uk

southbristolvoice

n NEWS Litter wardens go on patrol

January 2018

n NEWS

Risk to wildlife if parks cuts

WARDENS with the power to hand out on-the-spot fines are already patrolling South Bristol parks. The council has employed a private contractor, Kingdom, to issue £75 penalties for people dropping litter, including cigarette butts. The fine is reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days. The Bristol Post has reported that fines totalling £30,000 were handed out in the wardens’ first week of operations in the city centre. The wardens also have power to fine dog owners whose animals are not under control or if they fail to clean up after them. The penalty for either offence is £100, reduced to £60 if paid quickly. In future the wardens may also target people drinking alcohol in no-street-drinking zones. These include large parts of Bedminster and Redcatch park in Knowle. The Kingdom staff wear body cameras . They do not earn a bonus for each ticket they issue.

No decision on bike hangars A PETITION against siting bike hangars on Somerset Road, Knowle, was presented to the full council meeting on December 12. The petition had 56 signatures. Another petition is expected from those in favour of the hanagers, which would allow safe storage of 12 cycles. No suggestions have emerged of where the stores might be sited since Copse Road was rejected.

Wildlife in parks and green spaces is falling victim to council cuts, argues Voice naturalist Alex Morss

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Hedgehogs: At risk as grass is left to grow and is cut later in the year mowers in Victoria Park accidentally carved up two hedgehogs. The remains were found strewn across a city park wildlife meadow by horrified dog walkers and children, on their way to school. Ironically, many local residents had recently joined a campaign to make this neighbourhood, in Victoria Park, better to support more hedgehogs. They are legally protected – in fact a Bristol city council priority species, with their own special species action plan in place, with a promise to manage parks in a hedgehog-friendly way. Although hedgehogs are often caught in garden mowing accidents, careful checking and timing minimises the risk. Members of Victoria Park Action Group, including myself, complained to the council about the hedgehog deaths. Surely it is reasonable to ask them to be more careful with a legallyprotected, priority species? I

know the staff care, and are trying hard, involving community groups in difficult parks management decisions, but they are thwarted by impossible policies. The council was three months behind with parks hay cutting. It was meant to be done around August, not midNovember, by which time the grass was long and dense, and hogs were hiding in it. They are short of mowers, and the department recently laid off lots of staff among 1,000 council redundancies. More savage cuts are coming - a consultation is open until January on how to slash another £2.9 million from the parks budget. Several community groups have seen their voluntary-created wildflower pollinator areas mown off by mistake too, including some I have personally been involved in, and sometimes repeatedly, and not just in our city. It is a symptom of the same problem of over-stretched staff.

continue, say campaigners THE FUTURE OF PARKS

UCH of our valuable urban wildlife is under threat unless we start to properly fund our public parks, warn campaigners. Some conservationists claim species and habitats are already suffering, with councils forced to pull the money out of parks, green spaces and local nature reserves. I have witnessed examples of the accidental, illegal and avoidable carving up of our local hedgehogs by overstretched grounds staff, the loss of grasslands to save cash and the loss of other wildlife habitat. Conservation groups say we are at a critical time and need to safeguard and invest more in our public green spaces. Our nation’s favourite wild animal, the hedgehog, is just one of many species now in the firing line, as cash-starved councils rev up their efforts to dump the burden of managing parks and green spaces onto someone else. Some bat species, other mammals, birds, reptiles and many pollinators that depend upon grassland habitats also stand to lose out if parks continue to be neglected in funding. In mid-November, council

January 2018

Bristol city counncil’s parks consultation on plans to reduce annual spending by £2.86m is open until January 29 at • bristol.gov.uk/parksconsultation The proposals include: • More income from cafes; • Advertising in parks; • Charge anyone running businesses in parks, eg dog walkers, fitness trainers, hot air balloon operators; • Let private businesses run leisure activities, eg boot sales, camping, golf, bouncy castles; • Host more big events in parks;

• Cut grounds maintenance by £300,000, eg less grass cutting; • Let some grass turn to woodland; • Remove shrubs and hedges or reduce maintenance; • Review fees for sports facilities; • Reduce changing rooms in parks. Ask clubs to manage facilities; • Shut Hengrove Play Park two days a week; • Remove hanging baskets. Wild flower meadows instead of floral beds; • Reduce public toilet hours; • Remove broken play equipment; • Invite groups and businesses to manage green spaces.

Now many cities, including Bristol, Newcastle, Liverpool, Stockport and London, are devising ways to offload the burden of running parks, in all sorts of ways – to businesses, developers, golf clubs, volunteers or charities. This will bring crucial questions for wildlife. Many wildlife trusts and other conservation charities have hundreds of acres of grassland to manage and cut every year, but try to do it in wildlife-friendly way. They use volunteers with scythes, or bar mowers specially designed for long grass meadows. One conservation worker said: “I would not be surprised if there were occasional animal casualties during hay cuts, even in a hay cut done with scythes, but I have never heard of any. Many casualties can be avoided or very much reduced by ensuring staff have proper training, check first and do the cutting at the correct time, so

that species such as hedgehogs are less likely to find very long autumn grass to settle down in for hibernation. Obviously that comes with a cost.” Rob Acton-Campbell of Bristol Parks Forum has just presented a 4,400-name petition to Bristol city council asking them to protect our parks, prompted by a £4.5m parks budget cut proposal put forward earlier in the year, as part of the council’s £108m deficit reduction. He said: “The council has responded by reducing its proposed budget cuts to ‘only’ £2.9m and aims to raise more income to fill some of the gap, but this still represents a huge reduction in spending. The impacts of reduced management of areas for wildlife take longer to become apparent and therefore, as resources become more stretched, these are likely to be the first to suffer. We are very

concerned with reduced funding and the push towards commercialisation. Many of Bristol’s nature reserves and smaller wildlife areas will suffer to the point where their value for wildlife will be lost.” A Bristol city council spokesperson said: “We don’t believe that funding decisions so far have had an impact on biodiversity. In some cases, where grass is left to grow without maintenance, this can encourage more wildlife to our parks.” Deputy Mayor Asher Craig said during a council meeting on November 14 that the council ‘will not be selling off any parks or green spaces.” But it is looking into long term leases, private management and commercialising parks. My view is we need to be vigilant of the change that is coming, speak up, and fight for funding. We need to take part in public consultation. Perhaps we need parks to become a statutory service, defined in law and safeguarded for future generations? That’s what the National Federation of Parks and Green Spaces has called for. • A longer version of this article is online

Former bank could still become a café KNOWLE may not be getting a Costa coffee shop in the former Co-op bank on Wells Road, but bids are being invited from other firms to run it as a café. Costa was at first denied planning permission to turn the bank into a café, because planning officials said deliveries would be dangerous if vehicles stopped outside. The premises are on double yellow lines and close to the busy traffic lights at Broad Walk. But having won permission, after agreeing that delivery vehicles would use the parking bay on Broad Walk, Costa cancelled its plan to open in Knowle and will not explain why. Costa closed an outlet in Downend in October without explanation, just six months after it had opened. It said the move was part of “an ongoing property strategy”. The Wells Road premises is now back on the market with commercial agent Hartnell Taylor Cook – now with the benefit of planning permission for café use. It is being offered at a rent of £22,000 a year with business rates of £11,000.

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

January 2018

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n NEWS

Would you like to share your green fingers?

Lotta bottle: Tiina Wastie collects her prize from Butcombe head brewer Colin Paige

We have winners galore

Tasty treat: Dale Stowell collects his meal from Allspice in Bath Rd

ASK A VET:

HERE are more lucky winners of Voice competitions. Guy Pegden of Lower Knowle won the Fast Track security and Aspire Lounge pass for Bristol Airport in last month’s Voice, while winner of the Bemmie Bristol Advent calendar was Beth Marks of Lower Knowle. Pictured are the winners of two previous competitions picking up their prizes. The Stowell family of Knowle won a meal for two from Allspice in Bath Road, Arnos Vale. And Tiina Wastie of Ashton is pictured with her prize – her own weight in beer from the Butcombe brewery in Wrington.

WITH the New Year, thoughts are turning to the return of the growing season – and an appeal has gone out to anyone who’d like to share the joy of gardening with others. Growing Support is a voluntary group that tackles loneliness and isolation by running gardening clubs for people living in care to help them connect with the outdoors. It’s appealing for volunteers to join in January, to help cope with demand from new care homes which have joined the scheme in Hengrove. A spokesperson for Growing Support said: “Recent research shows up to 50 per cent of older people living in care never go outside. “There is strong evidence that gardening as part of a group can help people feel a renewed sense of purpose, reduce agitation and improve sleep and appetite,” she said. In 2017, 28 new volunteers joined the Growing Support team, helping deliver more than 1,000 hours of support. One volunteer, Karen, said “I found that often the sight of the plants or the sensory nature of the activity would spark memories to surface and reminiscences about the gardens

Gardening: Beats loneliness the residents had at home. “Even participants who had quite advanced dementia and limited verbal communication were clearly getting something from the sessions. I saw one woman who went from being quite distressed at the start of a session to leaving us with a big smile on her face and a calm and relaxed demeanour. “I would absolutely recommend volunteering with Growing Support to others, and regularly do! The Growing Support team are a lovely bunch.” Volunteers work with trained horticultural therapists. You don’t need to be a gardening expert. For information contact Sarah at volunteers@growingsupport. co.uk or visit: • growingsupport.co.uk/getinvolved/

WHAT IF MY PET ENJOYED CHRISTMAS A BIT TOO MUCH?

F YOUR pet has over-indulged this Christmas and is looking a little podgy, please remember that, like us, over time obesity in pets can lead to health issues such as heart and kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and even some forms of cancer. As daunting as it can seem, weight loss doesn’t have to be difficult – here are some of our top tips to help your pet lose weight: • Regular exercise – don’t let the dark nights put you off. Even a quick walk around the block is better than nothing. If you can, take long leisurely walks at the

weekend and play with your cat or rabbit to help keep their minds and their bodies active. • Weigh out your pet’s food – try not to guesstimate how much food to give your pet, weigh it instead so you can monitor how much food they’re eating. • Use a weight loss food – there are many pet food diets that are proven to help your pet lose weight without them going hungry. Speak to a vet or nurse to find out which foods are most suitable for your pet. • Avoid tit-bits – human food is not for pets. Did you know that one biscuit for a medium size dog is the

equivalent to us eating a chocolate bar? Keep food out of reach so they can’t be tempted to eat it when you’re not looking. Many high fat foods, like butter and cheese, can lead to painful pancreatitis, and some human foods cannot be digested by animals. • Pet treats – there are plenty of treats available that are good for pets – low fat, low sugar and good for the teeth. Speak to a member of the team to see which treats we recommend. Book a free weight loss clinic with one of our veterinary nurses at Whitchurch Veterinary Hospital and

Dr Rob Parry-Hall Whitchurch Veterinary Surgery Surgery. The nurse will be able to tailor a diet and exercise plan to your pet and can schedule regular weigh-ins to monitor their progress. Call us on 01275 832410.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

January 2018

n NEWS

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SOUTH BRISTOL’S HOMES & TRANSPORT REVOLUTION

Are we ready for what the future could bring to South Bristol?

TUBE MAP: The council’s first vision of where an underground network might go. It shows a tube line running from the Centre to stations in Southville and Bedminster. The line continues under Knowle West and then follows the A38, presumably above ground

• 11,000 homes in St Philip’s, Temple Meads – and Arena Island? • Tube line under Southville and Knowle, to link to airport • Probability of many high-rise blocks to meet housing need • Western Harbour to provide 3,500 homes in £1bn scheme OVERLEAF: What it means for • New villages on city fringe near Ashton Vale • The arena • Bedminster Green • More homes at Hengrove and Whitchurch • Cumberland Basin • Hengrove, Ashton Vale and the A4 corridor • ... and we haven’t even mentioned Bedminster Green ... yet ...

Mayor’s China trip shows scale of his building ambition

NNOTICED when Marvin Rees went to China in mid-December to seek investment in his ambitious building plans was a crucial change in a single number. While the city’s press and TV focused on the mayor’s insistence that an underground line is feasible, his figures for home building went unchallenged. Yet the number of homes the council now wants to build in the

area around Temple Meads has shot up more than fivefold to 11,000 homes – equivalent to a town the size of Thornbury. When former mayor George Ferguson issued a spatial framework for the Temple Quarter enterprise zone in March 2016, the target for housing in the area was 2,200. Mr Rees wants to build 11,000 homes in an area called Continued overleaf

‘NEW HOMES WILL TURN WELLS ROAD INTO A CAR PARK’

plan foresees a park and ride at Whitchurch to siphon off cars. But Cllr Gary Hopkins does not believe it will be built. “It’s so far down the pecking order it will never happen,” he said. A park and ride would be outside the Bristol boundary, outside Whitchurch village, which is controlled by Bath & North East Somerset council.

KNOWLE’S Lib-Dem councillors claim building thousands of new homes to the south of the city, at Whitchurch and Hengrove, will mean turn the A37 “into one of the biggest car parks in Bristol”. The West of England spatial

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

January 2018

SOUTH BRISTOL’S HOMES & TRANSPORT REVOLUTION

TOWER BLOCK PETITION A FORMER chair of Totterdown community group Tresa has started a petition against the use of high-rise blocks. Suzanne Audrey, who is not speaking on behalf of Tresa, said: “High-rise accommodation is associated with problems for mental health and wellbeing, higher levels of anti-social behaviour and vandalism, poor maintenance, and less community cohesion.” • epetitions.bristol.gov.uk/ epetition_core/community/ petition/3955City Council

BRISTOL METRO THIS is the name for the proposed Bristol tube network. Mr Rees is seeking £1.5bn to £2bn in private investment. He says the total cost will be £2.5bn to £4.5bn, and there could be 30m-50m journeys each year. He wants to build 40-45km of line (not all underground) and told investors there is potential for income to cover more than operating costs – in other words, it could make them a profit.

Continued from page 7 the Temple Meads City District. Surprisingly, the council couldn’t tell the Voice where the City District begins and ends. But it certainly includes St Philip’s Marsh – and this is where much of the extra housing appears likely to go. It’s also clear that the number has increased because Mr Rees is much keener than his predecessor on high-rise blocks. Cllr Paul Smith, the cabinet member for housing, told the Voice: “The spatial framework [Mr Ferguson’s 2016 plan] was not much above five to eight storeys. Marvin is much more ambitious in what can be achieved in terms of height, especially east of Temple Meads.” Already Bristol university has proposed a 25-storey tower on Arena Island, and developer Hadley wants a 16-storey block next to Totterdown bridge. Several sources have told the Voice that the council is actively encouraging developers to propose tall buildings to maximise the housing that can be built. Mr Rees has vowed to build 2,000

January 2018

n NEWS

Western Harbour: A £1bn+ scheme of 3,500 homes on 15-20 hectares with flood defences for the city homes a year by 2020 and the city region is said to need more than 120,000 new homes by 2028. St Philips is a largely industrial area but Cllr Smith said many of the activities there, including the railway yards, could function with less land. The council’s waste transfer station could move from Albert Road, he suggested – something many would welcome. “We are committed to protecting business activities on St Philip’s Marsh but do businesses need as much space as they have at the moment?” said Cllr Smith. “Some of the activities there are really good at creating work. Others, like car showrooms, use up quite a lot of land but don’t provide many jobs.”

IMPACT ON COMMUNITY SIMON Hobeck, chair of Totterdown community group Tresa, said new homes in St

BEDMINSTER GREEN: ROLLO CUTS HEIGHT SEVERAL towers are proposed among the plans yet to be published for more than 1,000 homes and a district energy centre at Bedminster Green. But one developer, Rollo Homes has lopped one storey off its proposed blocks of flats on Malago Road, from 10 floors to a maximum nine. It says the blocks will be mainly seven storeys with two storey extensions, meaning that “residents’ views from Windmill Hill across the Bristol skyline to Clifton will be retained”. The number of flats has been cut from 206 to 183. It has also dropped plans for its own rival energy centre to heat the flats. Instead, this part of the plot, at the Sheene Road end, would be used for 30 social housing flats. It means 14 per cent of the homes would be “affordable” – less then the council’s 40 per cent target, but much more the four per cent

targets for housing have mushroomed in Totterdown as they have in Temple Quarter. The Hadley site was earmarked for 54 homes; now the plan is for 159. Similarly the council-owned plot on Bath Road near Three Lamps was earmarked for 30 homes; recently Cllr Smith has spoken of 200 homes there, said Mr Hobeck.

previously allowed for the site. Rollo Homes director Paul O’Brien said, “It’s not been an easy scheme, but we have worked with the planning authority to try and deliver a viable scheme that also goes a significant way to answering local concerns.” WHaM, the Windmill Hill and Malago planning group, said: “WHaM looks forward to seeing a revised planning application in order to fully understand the implications of these changes, both for Plot 1 and for the proposed Urbis energy centre near Windmill Hill City Farm.” WHaM opposes new plans by Bilfinger GVA for a 21-storey block as part of a “collection of towers”, with studio, one and two-bed flats for private rent, on another part of the Green at Little Paradise. It also opposes an 18-floor tower proposed by developer Urbis. A new consultation meeting at Windmill Hill City Farm on Urbis’s energy centre is awaited. Letters, page 25

THE ARENA

ARENA ISLAND NO MORE IF AN arena is not built on Arena Island it could be used for housing, said housing chief Paul Smith. “I don’t know any more than you do about whether an arena will be built there,” he told the Voice, “but you wouldn’t leave that land empty, and you can see it as a housing site.” The Arena Island site has an £11m bridge, built by the Homes and Communities Agency, and plan are advanced to link it to a community heat network. The cabinet will debate the arena issue in January.

TWO reviews into a Bristol arena will be considered by the council cabinet in January. But the signs are not pointing towards the venue being built at Temple Meads. The mayor’s brochure for Far East investors did not mention an arena. A picture of the proposed Bristol university campus was cropped to show student blocks on Arena Island, but not the arena. Filton has been mentioned as an alternative site but Windmill Hill Labour Cllr Jon Wellington and Bristol’s Green councillors said the city centre is a better location.

HENGROVE RESIDENTS object to council plans to build 1,700-2,000 homes on green space. Hengrove and Whitchurch neighbourhood planning forum says roads will not cope, even with Metrobus.

PARKING ALL the proposed developments would add to traffic and parking on South Bristol streets. Already

SOUTH BRISTOL’S HOMES & TRANSPORT REVOLUTION University campus: A view of the main building to replace the derelict sorting office at Temple Meads

Philips could benefit residents on the south side of the Avon. “A large area like that has a lot of possibility and the chance to really build for the future. It could benefit Totterdown as well because you would need a new school and a doctors surgery and so on,” he said. He urged planners not to allow huge, soulless tower blocks but to look at other ways of providing high density housing. Paintworks on Bath Road – where there is a mix of houses and flats, with shared piazzas and no skyscrapers – is a possible model, he said. “We don’t have a problem with development as long as it’s done sensitively and sustainably and that new services are put in first,” said Mr Hobeck. St Philip’s could even be designed as Bristol’s first car-free community, he said, like those in the Netherlands and Germany. He pointed out that council

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FLOOD DEFENCES ESSENTIAL to any plans for housing in St Philip’s Marsh are new flood defences. As its name suggests, the area is low-lying. Plans are already being laid to protect the city from rising sea levels and the increased chance of flooding, said Cllr Smith. Much of the centre of Bristol and Southville could be under water if the worst happened and a one-in-100-year event brought high tides and heavy rain. Flood defences do not have to be ugly barrages, sad Cllr Smith. A Thames Barrier-style barrage in the Avon is likely to be too expensive and more subtle measures, such as raising ground levels and landscaping, are more likely, he said.

south. That is why it makes sense for new developments in places such as Whitchurch, Hicks Gate and near Long Ashton, said Cllr Smith. “It’s really important for South Bristol to see significant development outside the city boundary,” he said. Adding new housing to the south of the city means it will be nearer the city centre, he said. But he accepted that these developments should go hand in hand with improvements in transport. The leadership of North Somerset council is opposed to plans by Taylor Wimpey for 4,500 homes in three villages between Ashton Vale and Long Ashton, in the Green Belt. But many politicians think the plan makes sense. It would put new homes next to the South Bristol Link road and Metrobus. And they would be well placed for any new mass transit link to Bristol Airport. Knowle Cllr Gary Hopkins thinks the transport links make The Vale a better site for homes than the Whitchurch fringe.

THE A4 CORRIDOR IT’S THOUGHT the council is about to unveil ideas to ease future pressure on Bath Road. A Metrobus route and new cycle lanes seem likely. Totterdown’s Tresa and Arnos Vale residents have put the council under pressure to recognise the severe impact on local services, including roads and parking, of plans for homes which could bring 3,000 new residents. In Brislington, a campaign is building to turn an old railway line near Callington Road into a cycle and footway. But the West of England spatial plan earmarks the line as a relief road between the A4 and the A4174 ring road.

TOTTERDOWN’S FUTURE Community group Tresa is holding a meeting on January 17 at 7.30pm to hear residents’ concerns for the year ahead – whether they are most worried about parking, new developments, air quality or anything else. The venue has yet to be announced. • tresa.org.uk

WITHOUT THE CITY WALL

BRISTOL has grown in an unbalanced way, with more postwar housing outside the city boundary to the north than the residents are starting to ask whether a resident parking zone (RPZ) would make life easier – particularly in Totterdown. Mayor Marvin Rees has given responsibility for gauging local support for RPZs to councillors, saying he will not impose an RPZ where it is not wanted. But there is no budget for councillors to carry out surveys of opinion. It’s expected that the University of Bristol will be asked to help fund a report. The university has already offered to pay to set up a parking zone if its £300m campus opens in 2021.

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January 2018

n NEWS Old factory is Fancy a TV career? Join the boot camp Benedict BOTTLE Yard Studios – home an ideal stage Cumberbatch to Sherlock, Poldark and dozens Sherlock of TV and film productions – is for set designs hosting a free two-day boot camp asHolmes at FESTIVAL proprietors The Circus of Boom is taking over the old Trimite building off Feeder Road as a new headquarters. It marks another sign that South Bristol is attracting ever more creative and media companies. The arts and music stage set pioneers have engaged Bristol builders Helm Construction to convert the former powdercoating plant. Helm Construction chief executive Gary Sheppard said: “The old Trimite building will make a fantastic permanent base for the Circus of Boom, which moves from venue to venue staging some amazing shows in front of the biggest audiences.” The prominent Trimite building offers 6,500 sq ft of space with a pitched roof of almost 10m – enough to house the most ambitious set designs.

on January 18 and 19 to highlight the range of jobs available. The Hengrove studios, owned by the city council, has attracted worldwide attention for the quality of its productions. Now it is opening its doors to 50 jobseekers to give an insight into roles for over-21s in areas such as computing, transport,sewing, construction, hair and beauty.

the Bottle Yard, the biggest film studios in the West of England

Anyone wanting to attend must have developed skills in one of the shortage areas. The event is run by Calling

The Shots, a Spike Island-based film and TV production and training company, using a grant from the High End TV Levy

Campaign launched to save Fiddlers under threat if student flats are built next door, say owners

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Tucked away: Fiddlers is in a historic backstreet building with no homes nearby A TIDE of support is building behind South Bristol’s biggest music venue after it became the latest of several late-night premises to fall under threat. Fiddlers club in Willway Street has been open since 1994, run by Daniel Cleary and his father Peter. Now they fear it could close if a plan to instal 24 student apartments in a next-door building by developer Zam Prop Two is allowed to go ahead. The plans were revealed in last month’s Bedminster edition of the Voice – although at the time no details were available due to a problem with the council’s planning website. If the flats are allowed, and the residents complain about noise, the club’s licence could be taken away, the Clearys fear. “Fiddlers has been part of the live music scene in South Bristol for 23 years, supporting artists that would not be given the chance to perform in some commercial venues because they are about profit, not live music,” Daniel Cleary told a full council meeting on December 12. He called on councillors “to protect Bristol’s grassroots venues who contribute to the reputation of Bristol, and are

one of the reasons why people have moved to and love living in this great city. Without them this city will be destroyed.” It is not a remote threat – recent weeks have seen the Surrey Vaults venue in the city centre forced to close after complaints from residents of newly built flats nearby. The team running the Thekla, the shipborne nightclub in the harbour, believe it could be at risk of complaints when 36 flats are built at nearby Redcliffe Wharf are built next year. Yet despite the long-standing use of places like the Thekla and Fiddlers for late-night music, with inevitable noise when punters leave the premises, they have no protection from complaints if new residents move in nearby. The planning application for student flats is for the end of the historic block that houses Fiddlers. The building is called the Old Gaol, though it is disputed whether it was ever a prison. It is thought to have been a malthouse for brewing beer and a rope works, built either in 1740 (according to some) or 1790. The Clearys own most of the building and say they have turned down three offers in the last 18 months from developers

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n NEWS

at South Bristol’s world-class studios Fund, managed by industry skills body Creative Skillset. Calling The Shots’s co-founder and Knowle resident Jeremy Routledge said: “It takes a great variety of skills to make a top quality television drama. “While many want to act in them, direct, operate cameras, write scripts or scores and so on, Creative Skillset identifies a widening skills shortage when it comes to equally vital and interesting roles, such as set construction, hair and make-up,

costume-making, transport, logistics, electrics and computing. “The idea of our two-day event is to let attendees who have developed skills in other areas of work explore how their knowhow might transfer to TV drama and how to make the most of the opportunities this presents.” The boot camp will show the process of making a TV drama and the roles within a crew. Guidance and insight from professionals who are working in

the industry will show what it takes to develop a successful career in TV drama. The agenda will include a tour of the studios, including a working production set, set-building and costume workshops, and talks by on- and off-camera personnel, plus have-a-go sessions. All places are free: deadline for applications is Monday January 8. Applications must be made using the form available at: • callingtheshots.co.uk/skillset/

acclaimed live music venue WHO’S PLAYED FIDDLERS? Robert Plant Ex-Led Zepp singer Feeder Welsh rockers Lee Scratch Perry reggae hero Ruben Gonzalez father of salsa AND WHO DIDN’T? The Fall took to the Fiddlers stage on November 29 to say frontman Mark E Smith was too ill to sing. Get well, MES. who want to turn it into housing. The Zam Prop Two plan says there is a “storage unit” between Fiddlers and the potential flats. It carried out a noise survey when the club was open, which found that soundproofing measures would be enough to protect the students, it said. Mr Cleary disputed the claims. There is no empty space between the club and the end building, he said, just an area used by Fiddlers for dressing rooms and toilets. He added that the council had taken three weeks to tell him about the application, and hadn’t put notices on lampposts as it should. No notification had gone to the White Hart pub, which backs on to nearby Stillhouse Lane, or Park Furnishers, which is opposite the flats site, he said. A total of 33 objections to the planning application had been

Robert Plant

Lee Scratch Perry

lodged by the time the Voice went to press, while there were more than 3,300 signatures on a petition. Closure would cost up to 30 jobs, said Mr Cleary. Among the objectors was a woman from Raleigh Road, Ashton, who wrote: “We cannot have yet another live music venue closing due to developer greed. I don’t understand how people can buy flats near a music venue then complain about noise.” The London-based Music Venue Trust (MVT) also objected, pointing out that the application states Fiddlers is open until 2am, when in fact it sometimes opens till 6am. The noise test was done only once, with no attempt to find out from Fiddlers if it was a typically loud performance, said the MVT. Mayor Marvin Rees has said he wants to protect the city’s music venues. The council is

Mark E Smith

being asked to adopt a policy to protect venues from complaints made by residents of new homes. • change.org/p/bristol-citycouncil-save-fiddlers-bristolfrom-closure

FREE fitness and health sessions are on offer when three of South Bristol’s wellbeing businesses get together for a day of activities on Saturday January 13. There are 13 activities in all over three locations – all are free, but must be booked in advance. The Flow Yoga studio at 16 Whitehouse Street offers taster sessions in five forms of yoga. At 10.30 am it’s hatha yoga, at 11.45am yoga for beginners, followed by kundalina yoga at 1pm, iyengar yoga at 2.15pm and yin yoga at 3.30pm. Empowered Fitness studio at Duckmoor Road in Ashton, is offering semi-private personal training sessions for up to four people, as well as a nutrition workshop, Eating For Fat Loss. Sessions are at 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1pm. Bristol Pilates Studio at 1-7 Smyth Road, Ashton, is offering Pilates mat work classes in groups of up to eight at 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1pm. All events must be booked by email: bristolopenday@gmail.com.

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n NEWS Cricket club denies midnight noise, ‘but we have to pay the bills’

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KNOWLE cricket club has defended its reputation after an anonymous complaint that neighbours were kept awake by a late-night event in the pavilion. The Voice received an anonymous letter claiming that the event, on November 4, kept “the whole of Knowle area awake” with music played outside after midnight. “Should this kind of event

have been allowed, and why wasn’t everyone informed?” asked the nameless writer. “It’s become more like the locals’ rowdy pub.” Steve Windaybank, president of the cricket club, denied the event had run on after midnight. “We are certainly not looking to upset the neighbours,” he said. “I don’t ever remember there being a complaint like this.” He said Knowle Cricket Club

Knowle: 0117 9777672 Email knowle@greenwoodsproperty.co.uk To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

an area where cricket isn’t played so much,” he said. “We have 120 kids from the community playing every week and we have the local schools using the outfield, and we are spending money to improve the facilities. “It’s certainly not a rowdy pub,” he said. If the club can do more to inform neighbours about outdoor events it will, he said, perhaps by putting up notices.

Developer makes homes lower to try to win support A NEW plan has been submitted for homes on a long-derelict Totterdown corner plot in a bid to break the logjam that has seen four previous applications fail. Crossman Homes of Bath is now asking permission to build seven homes – two houses and five flats – on the corner of Goolden Street and Bathwell Road. The developer has responded to criticisms of previous plans by reducing the number of homes and by designing the building to blend in with the new houses to be built early in 2018 by the Guinness Partnership on another empty site to the rear of Holy Nativity church. The homes will be faced in brick, rather than the coloured panels on an earlier plan which some found “unspeakably foul”. It has three storeys facing Goolden Street, where other houses also have three floors, but has two storeys on Bathwell Road, where the houses are smaller and neighbours feared

being overlooked. However, some of the new homes open onto the pavement and, like previous schemes, there is no parking. A cycle store is provided for 12 bikes – though there could be a total of 18 residents. Two three-bedroom homes would open onto Bathwell Road. Next door would be two flats, while the taller structure on Goolden Street would have three flats. Cllr Jon Wellington said he found the plan “less imposing” than previous versions. But he is willing to “call in” the application to have it decided by a public planning committee, if residents request this, he said. No objections had been sent to the council when the Voice went to press. One letter of support was received from the Guinness Partnership, saying the Crossman plan complements their scheme for social housing on the adjacent plot.

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has been on its Wells Road pitch since 1852, but maintenance has to be subsidised with social activity, he said. The club held only three outdoor events in 2017, including fireworks on November 3 and a 40th birthday party for one of the members on November 4. “We are a community cricket club and we are trying to encourage youngsters to play, in

SOUTH Bristol sends fewer students into higher education than anywhere else in England – just 16 per cent, much lower than the UK average of 42 per cent. “While progress has been made, with Bristol South seeing the biggest rise in the number of young people going into higher education compared with a

decade ago, there is still a long way to go,” said Labour MP Karin Smyth. She said the news of the latest figures from university clearing body UCAS was disappointing. But, she said, “university isn’t for everyone and I have been working to improve quality apprenticeship opportunities.”

Better neighbours? The new plan shows the Guinness homes on the left

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January 2018

n NEWS New health centre set to open in the summer

n NEWS

THE NEW home for the Wedmore GP practice is expected to open in summer 2018, with a pharmacy as well as 20 consulting rooms for treatments and minor operations. The practice will move from its 1950s building in St John’s

THE VOLUNTEERS who help look after Perretts Park are in search of new leadership after the current chair announced he is to step down. The Community of Perretts Park, or Copp, was started by Laurie Burn, former minister at Totterdown Baptist Church, more than 10 years ago. Since then Copp has brought about many improvements. In 2012 a panoramic plaque was made by Totterdown artist Emily Ketteringham, paid for by Copp. This year saw the return of the granite fountain to the park, which had been missing since the

A PAIR of South Bristol mums want to brighten up the city by making it easy for busy people to plant up neglected borders, window boxes, planters and gardens at home and at work. Alice Evans and Susy Feltham have launched Bloominster, the city’s first delivery service for easy care, outdoor plants. They says it’s like a veggie box service, but with a bigger box that’s full of plants, put together in their Bedminster homes. The pair met at St Mary Redcliffe primary school, where their children are in the same class. “The idea is to inject much more colour into urban environments,” said Susy, a landscape architect and gardener who has spent her working life designing planting schemes. “The plants are all locally and ethically sourced, and they are easy to care for, so they can be used to plant up window boxes, hanging baskets or urban borders.” They are taking orders for subscriptions now for the first boxes to be delivered to the door in March, but are offering a one-off winter plant box to those that want to get started sooner. They are hoping that the service will appeal to busy residents and business people who would otherwise let their

Lane to the new £2.5 million eco-friendly building in Marksbury Road. Architects at GVA designed a timber frame which took just five weeks to erect, with solar panels on the roof to help heat water. Dr Sue Latham, senior

partner at the GP practice, said “We’re all delighted with the progress of the new centre. We’ve been planning this for some time and it’s a real pleasure to see it come to fruition. The centre will offer first rate facilities for all our patients.”

THE FIRST offer from Bloominster is a January Sparkle Box – a box full of winter bedding plants and evergreens to provide colour in the darkest months of the year. The Sparkle Box is on sale at an introductory rate of £25 delivered in Bristol. But we have one to give away to a lucky South Bristol Voice reader. Just tell us: Bloominster is based in which part of Bristol? Answers, with your name, address and phone number, to paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk or 18 Lilymead Avenue, Bristol BS4 2BX by January 16. Alice and Susy, right, will deliver plants to budding gardeners borders go unplanted. They will deliver large boxes of about 10 plants in pots, ready for planting out, to provide colour throughout the seasons, with new

boxes every three months. “It’s aimed at people who haven’t got the experience or even the time to go to a garden centre and pick the right plants for themselves,”

Perretts Park looks for more leadership

How it will look: The new surgery

Alice and Susy aim to make Bristol’s borders brighter WIN PLANTS TO BRIGHTEN UP JANUARY!

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said Alice, a former support worker for homeless people. Bloominster will be holding a launch event with gardening craft activities at Windmill City Farm café on January 26 at 12.30pm. They are offering an introductory rate of 50 per cent off, meaning a sixth month subscription (two deliveries for spring and summer) costs £60, or £10 a month. Four seasonal deliveries over a year costs £120, also £10 a month. A starter box costs £30. From the summer, they also hope to offer pots and baskets pre-planted and ready to display. This service is the first of its kind in Bristol. The idea for Bloominster came to Alice after her mother started giving her plants for her own garden. To start with, Alice didn’t know much about planting, but Susy provided the expertise, and they will help customers with advice on their Facebook page, website and on care cards given with every delivery. • Facebook: Bloominster

1970s. It was repaired by local stonemason Paul James and has been reinstated as a birdbath. The most recent activity in the park was the popular Carols in the Park event, organised by Churches Together in Knowle and Totterdown and Copp. Chair of Copp for the past two years has been Voice editor Paul Breeden, who feels he has not got the time needed for the role. “Perretts Park is a very special place, known to many people as one of the best places to watch the Balloon Fiesta,” said Paul. “We won a four-star Thriving award this year from South West

in Bloom, mainly because of the constant attention of a core of volunteers, who pick up litter and dog mess almost every day. “Unfortunately editing the Voice leaves me little spare time and I feel I’m letting people down. “The summer Picnic in the Park has always been really popular but it hasn’t happened for the past two years because no one has had time to organise it.” Paul is stepping down at the Copp AGM on February 27. Ex-councillor Mark Bailey has volunteered to take over the job of liaising with the council over maintenance, and it’s hoped the

Yellow lines provoke anger RESIDENTS whose homes back on to a narrow Totterdown lane have reacted with anger after the council painted yellow lines to prevent parking there. As reported previously in the Voice, a traffic regulation order, or TRO, was approved for Winton Lane in October despite several objections from residents. Totterdown Methodist church also objected. The church hall backs onto the lane, which sits between Bushy Park and Knowle Road. Church members fear they will lose bookings if visitors can’t park there – especially elderly people being dropped off to their lunch club. It’s not clear why the council believes parking restrictions are necessary, although the road is narrow and there may be concerns about emergency

access. The council told the Voice that the objections had been considered and responded to. Despite this, many residents appeared unaware of the TRO and voiced their views on Facebook. One resident wrote: “We have lived in Totterdown for 17 years. We can rarely park on our street because of people parking and walking into town or to work, or using the church or gym or cafe, which would be fine if we could still park at the back of our house outside our garage, but the council have now painted double yellow lines on the only place we could reliably park. Now we will have to drive into Knowle and park outside someone else’s. Great. Nicely done BCC.” Another said: “I really don’t understand why they have done this! It’s only residents that park

at the rear of their homes.” Cllr Jon Wellington said he was disappointed the TRO was imposed in spite of the objections.

Perretts Park: Award-winning other roles can be shared out. To find out more about Copp, email paulbreeden@gmail.com or visit: • Facebook: Community of Perrett’s Park

Musical fun

A MUSICAL fun session for toddlers starts on Tuesdays at 11am on January 3 at Zion, Bishopsworth Road. Children can bang drums and tambourines to favourite songs. • zionbristol.co.uk

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

January 2018

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January 2018

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n NEWS Bedminster Lantern Parade

Family owned and run

The Ambling Band, adding colour and music

Victoria Park primary, inspired by French links • More pictures in the Bedminster edition of South Bristol Voice and online at southbristolvoice.co.uk

Sailing by: Windmill Hill City Farm

Two world-class operas on stage in Bristol For Stunning Contemporary Windows and Doors Visit Crystal Clear

FIRST class opera performances are returning to Bristol Hippodrome for 2018 – and South Bristol Voice has a pair of tickets to give to a lucky reader. Acclaimed producer Ellen Kent is bringing two of the world’s most popular operas – Verdi’s Rigoletto, and Puccini’s Madama Butterfly to the city. Thursday January 18 Rigoletto THIS was the opera they tried to ban – partly for its daring sexual content, but also because it exposed the depraved behaviour of those in power. Verdi turned a story by Victor Hugo, about a corrupt French king, into a tragedy set in the decadent court of the Duke of Mantua. Verdi’s opera was banned after one performance, until he agreed to cut a scene of rape, intended to show the depravity of the ruling class. Producer Ellen

Kent has decided to reintroduce the controversial scene – and Verdi’s naked courtesans – in a sensitive way. The set is spectacular, and the production includes a golden eagle with a seven-foot wingspan, and two regal hunting dogs, to show the extravagance of the Mantuan court. Ellen, a campaigner for animal welfare, will use dogs from charity Bristol DAWG, which rescues greyhounds and lurchers, while the eagle comes from Black Mountain Falconry in Abergavenny. Performed by a full orchestra, Rigoletto features two of the most celebrated tenor arias, La Donna è Mobile and Questa o Quella. International baritone Iurie Gisca stars as Rigoletto alongside soprano Alyona Kistenyova from Odessa National Opera. Rigoletto in one minute: • youtube.com/ watch?v=BRWGz8h3Tsw

WIN TICKETS TO MADAMA BUTTERFLY WE have two tickets to give away to Madama Butterfly at the Bristol Hippodrome on Friday January 19. Just tell us: What is the name of the orchestra playing Rigoletto and Madama Butterfly at the Hippodrome in January? Answers, with your name, address and phone number, to paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk or 18 Lilymead Avenue, Bristol BS4 2BX by January 15. Friday January 19 Madama Butterfly PUCCINI’S magnificent opera Madama Butterfly was the inspiration for the West End musical Miss Saigon. It tells the heart-breaking story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval

lieutenant – with dramatic and heart-wrenching results. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet. International Korean soprano Maria HeeJung Kim from the National Opera House of Seoul makes her UK debut singing the role of the tragic Cio Cio San. She made her debut as Madama Butterfly at the Milan Opera. Spanish tenor Giorgi Meladze will sing the part of Pinkerton as well as the Duke of Mantua in Rigoletto. Meladze sang in Austria with Jose Carreras in 2014. Both operas will be conducted by Vasyl Vasylenko, artistic director and conductor at the National President’s Orchestra of Ukraine, leading the 30-strong National Ukrainian Orchestra. Madama Butterfly in one minute: • youtube.com/ watch?v=GayrtvwLSV0

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Iurie Gisca stars as Rigoletto alongside soprano Alyona Kistenyova

Madama Butterfly is played by Korean soprano Maria HeeJung Kim

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

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07834 488687 Facebook: Kelly Houghton kellycoombs.isagenix.com KELLY Houghton says she knows what it’s like to feel that something has to change to restore balance to your life. “As a busy mum of two young children with a demanding unsociable job, I felt stressed and took it out on my family. I struggled to sleep which made coping hard. I couldn’t shift my weight no matter how much exercise I did, and was feeling uncomfortable in my skin.” Kelly wanted to lose weight and feel better in time for her wedding last summer. She found her answer in the Isagenix approach, which focuses on supporting people to achieve their health goals. It’s a lifestyle change which incorporates premium nutrition and cleansing to achieve life-changing results. Isagenix is a leading health and wellness company whose system is scientifically-backed and whose mission is to impact world health. “After seeing my friends’ results I gave it a shot,” said Kelly. “After just a few days I had more energy, I started sleeping consistently, I felt less stressed

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n NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Well equipped: The Fit4Less gym Get results immediately, instant transformation, the perfect body in seconds… This is what we all want, right? Unfortunately, we all know that’s not how it works. As with most things, it’s all about the journey, not necessarily the final destination and we believe this to ring true for fitness. Here at Fit4Less Bristol we are founded on this principle. Imaging starting a small business and struggling for

several years, going bust, putting every penny you have into the business to start it back up, struggling again, slowly it gets better, then you get it right and it takes off. That small business is worth a lot more to you than if you won the lottery and just bought it. The tortoise won because it’s about the journey you take, and Fit4Less is fully committed to making yours the best possible one. The gym is always staffed with the aim of making sure customers are always happy with absolutely everything. Start your fitness journey today with seven days for free. There is free car park right next door which customers are welcome to use. The changing rooms are spacious, clean and bright. The gym is equipped with top-of-the-range cardio equipment, resistance machines and free weights up to 50kg, all

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

ADVERTISING FEATURE

January 2018

n FEATURES

January 2018

southbristolvoice

Make a healthy start to January, and keep it up! Continued from page 19 tailored to your specific needs at several centres across the South Bristol area. These include South Bristol sports centre in West Town Lane, Redcatch community centre in Knowle, Victoria Park Baptist church, Totterdown Baptist church and Holy Nativity church, Knowle. Beginners Pilates The main focus of the beginners course is to teach you to use your core to stabilise your lower back and pelvis during movement. It is absolutely essential that you have these basic skills, to enable you to practice Pilates safely and effectively. Men on Mats The exercises are geared more towards a typical male posture and flexibility issues, focusing on core strength and stronger more flexible back,

BUGLIFE IN THE CITY

OUR WILD WINNERS WILL HELP! SINCE the spring, the Voice has been encouraging readers in Bedminster, especially in schools, to think about how wildlife habitats can be improved. We received lots of marvellous photos of wildlife, from foxes to slow worms and even a newt. The winners of the schools section of the competition want to look after smaller creatures. Ashton Park primary school’s After School Club, along with other pupils, worked hard to make a pond and other wildlife habitats in their grounds. In January we’ll be presenting them with their prize – the children have asked for something they can make into a home for insects. More next month.

Safe way to fitness: Pilates usually reducing or even eliminating back pain, neck and shoulder pain. Over 60s As people get older, they can lose some of their balance and coordination. Pilates increases their strength, flexibility and overall fitness. Postnatal Pilates Designed for new mums who want a slow, controlled approach to ease them back into exercise after birth.

Get back into shape and regain flexibilty with Pilates

The small blue butterfly was seen once in Victoria Park in 2017, and rarely elsewhere in the south of the city. PHOTO: Iain H Leach/Buglife

We all need to look Why do we have so few of Britain’s insects present in South Bristol? It’s a real concern, says Voice wildlife expert Alex Morss

Sessions to suit everyone South Bristol Sport Centre Mon 6.30 – 7.25pm Men on mats Tues 9.15 – 10.00am Over 60s Tues 10.00 - 10.45am Postnatal Pilates Redcatch Community Centre Wed 6.30 – 7.25pm Beginners Pilates Wed 7.30 – 8.25pm Pilates Victoria Park Baptist Church Wed 9.15 – 10.10am Beginners Pilates Wed 10.15 – 11.00am Over 60s Wed 11.00 – 11.45am Postnatal Pilates Totterdown Baptist Church Thurs 6.45 – 7.40pm Men on mats Thurs 7.45 – 8.40pm Pilates Holy Nativity Church Tues 7.30 – 8.25pm Beginners Pilates Fri 9.15 – 10.10am Beginners Pilates

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HE HUM of apple blossom in spring, a flutter of colour, fly-splattered windscreens, a wasp furiously orbiting your beer… are we missing some of the small wonders here in South Bristol? Insect charity Buglife thinks so, and amid new fears about insect populations collapsing, it is on a mission to help turn things around with big new plans just launched across the city – and they would love your help. The conservation charity’s new Bristol Urban Buzz officer Hayley Herridge is appealing for community groups, schools and users of green spaces to team up with her and transform sites for bugs and beasties. Buglife says this is the largestscale urban project in the UK for bees, but it will also tackle other insect groups. It has raised more than £1 million in grants to pay for intensive seed sowing and

planting of vibrant flower-rich swards across 100 sites in Bristol and other cities over 18 months. Buglife knows that urban areas like South Bristol have become a vital lifeline for many invertebrates, amid intensive farming and pesticides being blamed for decimating rural insect populations. Urban brownfield sites, such as old rubble areas, waste ground and derelict industrial corners, often throw up real hotspots of rare and exciting finds. Buglife’s spokesman Paul Hetherington said many of these interesting populations are concentrated in isolated pockets of such habitat, but they can be found in city parks too. “There is more species diversity in urban areas than the rural environment now, though the urban populations suffer from isolation,” he said. “In general, there are fewer and less toxic chemicals used in the urban environment. Honey yield from honeybees is higher in the urban than the rural setting.” But he added: “With the ever-increasing drive to concrete over gardens for parking, decking and so on, habitats are becoming disconnected.” Paul said it’s very easy to encourage a diverse range of species by making a few simple changes, such as adding the right food plants, making ponds and

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None left: The carrot mining bee, above, might return to South Bristol if there was more wild carrot, right, in our hedgerows. PHOTOS: Above, Steven Falk/Buglife; right, Alex Morss

after our creepy crawlies, even in the city HOW MANY BUGS IN SOUTH BRISTOL? Species Total species Total species Our area’s recorded in the in the UK % of the South Bristol Voice UK total reader area no. of species Flies and hoverflies 66 7,000 0.9% Beetles 50 4,072 1.2% Moths and butterflies 233 2,559+ 9.1% Bugs 42 2,000 2.1% Bees, ants & wasps 33 590 5.6% Spiders, mites & harvestmen 63 700+ 9% Springtails 5 371 1.3% Caddisflies 1 199 0.5% Woodlice & millipedes 13 123 10.6% Dragonflies 11 57 19.3% Grasshoppers and crickets 11 27 40.7% Earwigs 2 7 28.6%

building ‘bee hotels’. “We would like to work with any groups who are interested in enhancing sites for pollinators,” he said. In South Bristol, Buglife also hopes to bring back the locallyextinct carrot mining bee and to reverse the decline of the small blue butterfly. “One of the last records for the carrot mining bee, Andrena nitidiuscula, in the Bristol area was recorded nearby at Hengrove,” said Paul. “The area is soon to be developed. I am keen to target parks and nature reserves in the area to

ensure there is more suitable habitat for this species. “The small blue butterfly has also been recorded in your area and again the loss of suitable habitat will impact this species.” It’s hoped planting pea-family wildflowers, such as bird’s-foot-trefoil, will help encourage them back. Buglife’s new project arrives amid recent warnings that we are on a collision course for an insect armaggedon unless we turn things around. Similar concerns were raised by Butterfly Conservation,

which announced huge crashes in butterfly numbers this year, including in Bristol. Far wider population crashes in insect abundance – the actual volume of insects measured as biomass – were revealed last month from a 27-year European study by scientists, which prompted warnings the world is on the brink of an ecological collapse if we keep losing insects.

WINNERS AND LOSERS Buglife knows it is not always easy to work out which species are the winners or losers in an area – until the change becomes drastic – but its plan should support a wide range of little critters, from among the many that have suffered declines. I searched public databases via the government’s NBN Atlas for insect and other arthropod records for the South Bristol Voice area, shown in the table. The records cover roughly 14 x 1km map squares and reveal that we are home to at least 530 different types of invertebrate! However, many of these records are rather old, and some of those creatures have since been lost locally or have suffered severe population declines. And look at how many species have not been recorded in our local patch in recent times, from the potential entire UK range, shown in the table. There are more than

17,700 different types of invertebrate from these groups across the UK, so we only support a very small fraction here at present. And records do not always reliably tell us about abundance, so we can miss big changes in population size until it’s too late, and a species disappears from an area. Most of this UK wildlife monitoring is done by volunteers, and this can lead to bias. For example, some species and locations are far more popular with wildlife recorders than others, as well as some tiny creatures being more tricky to find or identify. Yet all these small wonders are vital for wildlife food webs. They prop up entire ecosystems, drive evolution and help pollinate around 90 per cent of the world’s plant species, including around a third of our food plants. The Buglife work follows on from a big drive by other conservation groups to create new habitat areas in Bristol, as reported in South Bristol Voice. These have included Butterfly Conservation, thousands of school children, park and community groups, the Berry Maze, Avon Wildlife Trust and Get Bristol Buzzing campaign. • If you’d like to help create habitats with Buglife in South Bristol, contact Hayley: Hayley. Herridge@buglife.org.uk

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

January 2018

southbristolvoice

22 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Family

Happily never after: Can you really have a ‘good’ divorce?

Having limped through the Christmas festivities, the sad reality is that many couples choose January to call time on their relationship. If you’re one of these couples, you might be considering what steps to take next and looking for calmer, more flexible ways to end your relationship than going to court.

Think ahead

When considering separation, it’s useful to understand the legalities involved. As part of your fact-finding mission, speak to a family law solicitor. Some law firms, us included, offer new clients a free 30 minute consultation, during which you’ll get general information about your options and guidance on next steps.

Consider your options

If a co-operative post-divorce relationship is important to you,

consider family mediation. In contrast to the adversarial court system, mediation offers flexibility. It’s often quicker and cheaper than more traditional routes, and enables you to work through your issues constructively, although you’ll need legal advice to ensure any agreement is workable and legally binding. Of course, mediation isn’t for everyone, but if you still want to avoid court, collaborative law may be an option for you to access professional support and legal advice.

Work together

It will be easier to work through the various legal processes if you and your former partner can stay on civil terms. A family mediator or collaborative lawyer can help with this, from separating your assets to determining how you communicate in future. Research suggests that co-operation between parents can lessen the impact of separation on children. That’s why, where children are involved, we’re

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n FEATURES

CRAFTY VICKY THINKS BIG

Who brought Bristol’s mythical crocodile to life? Vicky Harrison did. Beccy Golding meets her

CONNECTING PATTERNS, CONNECTING THE DOCKSIDE

Many people would argue a good divorce doesn’t actually exist. But with over a third of UK marriages now ending in divorce, attitudes are changing. Chris Miller, Managing Partner of Barcan+Kirby, looks at alternative ways to end a relationship. So common is the surge in January divorce enquiries that the first Monday of the year is commonly known as ‘D-Day’ – or ‘Divorce Day’ – amongst family lawyers.

January 2018

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ICKY Harrison has a degree in fine art, and has always been interested in installations, “I’ve made stuff since I was a kid,” she says. She loves painting, drawing and embroidery, and in 2010 set up her shop, Paper Village, on North Street. “It was the right time to pull it all together,” she says. The first project for the shop was a knitted and crocheted garden, followed by a coral reef in the window, “it was the first big tester – whether people would get involved and, measured by the levels of engagement, it was hugely successful.” Engaging people is important to Vicky. Before the shop she “always worked in the voluntary sector - 30 years counselling and support work, in mental health services in Hull, Weston and Bristol. I also worked in community radio – I had my own show on BCFM for two years – with four guests, bonkers chat and music.” Originally from Hull, Vicky has lived in South Bristol for 30 years. First on Beauley Road near the Southville Centre, then on North Street. “I’ve seen a lot of changes [in the area] – going downhill then coming back up. I like to think I played a part – my shop opened in 2010, it was one of the new breed. Sadly it closed in July last year – the parking zones killed it. But the community engagement work I am involved in was doing really well, so I set up the CIC (Community Interest Company).” The CIC is Crafting the City, and its first community project is called Connecting Patterns, Connecting the Dockside. Not one to do things by halves, it is actually six projects (see panel). It’s a huge task involving “lots of bits of paper and panicking! For each project I do, I don’t know what I’m doing until I’ve done it! I like a challenge,” she finishes, understatedly. For example, the Ashton Gatehouse, “I didn’t know how it would work until it was finished.”

Vicky Harrison, top, and the giant Christmas ‘buoyble’ with fellow crafters Alex, Shauna, Sue, Kathy, Collette and Helen. Inset, Briscroc

Six projects exploring the dockside through patterns 1. Bristol Crocodile Allegedly sighted by a bus driver in the river Avon in 2014, this intricatelycrocheted life-size creature was hanging out in the Underfall Yard. He’ll be returning in the new year. 2. Buoyble A giant woollen Christmas bauble. 3. Gulls A huge flock of herring gulls, black headed gulls and lesser black backed gulls. 4. Netted A giant net full of knitted, crocheted and embroidered fish and coral. 5. Pattern 3D felted and embroidered cobbles to create a cobble stone road. 6. Tapestry A 6m tapestry weaving together the stories and people of the dockside.

Vicky, full of woolly wonderful ideas to knit the city together What it became was a six-month project of workshops and events and people working at home to create a community-embroidered map celebrating the newlyrenovated historic landmark at the lower entrance to Ashton Court estate. Other previous woollen wonders that Vicky has instigated include the Pompom Parade – 10,000 pompoms in shops all down North Street, and created in care homes – “all the local schools took part” – made into mobiles, hyacinths, waterfalls, “we decorated the whole street on a very rainy day in spring 2015.” And then, of course, there’s Briswool, the woolly map of the city’s landmarks. “It was first exhibited in the shop and 4,000 people came to see it in a few days.” It was redeveloped over a

Gull friend: Watch out for several breeds of woolly gulls in 2018

couple of years then exhibited in the M-shed. In seven weeks “it had 40,000 visitors – one of the biggest ever local exhibitions.” The whole woollen city is now in storage. It may be exhibited again in 2018, with the crocodile. An ongoing project that is clearly very close to Vicky’s heart is Maisie Cats for Dementia. After a creative life, Vicky’s mum Maisie died from dementia in 2015. She created a pattern for a toy cat when Vicky was little. Now anyone can make one of these lovely little knitted, crocheted or sewn cats, which are then sold to “raise money for nice treats for people with dementia.” More than £1,000 has already been raised. You can read more about Vicky’s mum and the cats on the Crafting the City website. Although all this creativity brings colour and inspiration to the people of South Bristol and beyond, unsurprisingly, “it doesn’t make me a living.” So, as well as one-off workshops connected to the big projects, Vicky runs regular courses – crochet in Margot May on North Street; Thread – an experimental embroidery group that meets at the Hen and Chicken, and she’s hoping to do

courses in libraries in 2018. Other plans for 2018 include getting sponsorship for a woolly flock of 70 seagulls to appear around the harbour – expect to see them on the ferry boats. There will be a postcard trail for people to find them – businesses around the dockside can get involved by sponsoring a gull for £50 and having it in their location, or sponsor the postcard. Or anyone can support the crowd-funder campaign which starts in February – you can name a seagull for £25. When asked how she would describe herself, Vicky first says “Tall!” After a little reflection she adds “I love process, I love experimentation, I like a bit of risk. I am very creative in everything I do.” And, “I am extremely hard-working. I have never missed a deadline in my life.” I have no doubt about that. What’s the best thing about living in South Bristol? “Me,” she laughs. Then: “there’s quite a lot of community involvement, lots going on. It’s a busy area, I like being close to the shops. If I need a bun I can just pop out and buy a bun. Yes, put that.” • craftingthecity.org • Facebook: CraftingTheCity

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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New year, new start

January 2018

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

Opening this year, Stoke Gifford Retirement Village will provide 261 comfortable new one and two bedroom homes for people over 55, with options for rental, shared ownership and outright purchase. The Village is built around a superb range of social, leisure and well-being facilities including: Fitness Suite and Well-being Suite Bistro and Bar Shop Hair and Beauty Salon Village Hall Hobby and Games Room IT suite and Library Greenhouse and Landscaped Piazza

If we are to influence these plans, we need your support IT HAS been a busy year for the members of WHaM (Windmill Hill & Malago Planning Group), with meetings with cabinet members, developers, coverage in the press, appearances on local TV, a website, events on the green and meetings at Windmill Hill community centre. Around Bedminster Green the ever-shifting sands have made it hard to focus on specific targets. Hundreds of people commented on the only firm application to date, for the 10-storey blocks next to Malago Road, and the council and planning department heard our concerns. We wait for the decision of the planning committee on this. Next year is likely to be crucial in the process with applications expected on all five plots on Bedminster Green for tower blocks between 18 and 22 storeys, the sale and removal of the green open space and its trees, and a district heating and power station. This is a major

We’re not going to let roads be used as racetracks

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or online at www.stokegiffordvillage.co.uk Charges will apply. Details of any costs associated with your home, care and village services will be provided as part of your application. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, registered charity number 327816, is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales as company number 2205136. Its registered office is at 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN. Copyright © 2017 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

APPY New Year to all the readers of the South Bristol Voice! The festive season brought a fair mixture of incidents across the beat, with some issues unfortunately becoming more and more common for us. Firstly, it has been brought to our attention by a series of concerned residents that Wingfield Road has started resembling a Formula One race track. I have received several reports about speeding and very near misses involving both

development and although the council, after pressure from WHaM, has got some of the developers around the table, there is no cohesive plan for the area except WHaM’s site brief. An uncoordinated development of this size could be a disaster, leading to loneliness and alienation, gentrification, overcrowding, a proliferation of one and two bedroom flats and fast profits for developers and private landlords. Where is the social housing? Where are the amenities, schools, doctors and facilities that will encourage cohesion and connection? WHaM is a credible part of the planning system and is pushing for all of these things but needs more people to get involved. There is a core group of a dozen or so members who have worked hard over the last couple of years and achieved great things but they need your help. If we are to have an influence the community will need to make its voice heard. Our AGM is at 8.30pm on January 9 in the community centre in Vivian Street. If you can stand for any position on the committee please email whamalago@gmail.com. We also need members who can bring energy and skills. Many thanks. Howard Purse Chair, WHaM

pedestrians and vehicles. The beat team have been working to try to minimise the issues and this is very much a work in progress. Wingfield is a 20mph zone for a reason – the safety of those living there and those passing through. There is a school nearby and it is frightening to think what could happen if cars don’t slow down. I can’t stress enough the importance of sticking to the speed limit and being mindful of those around you, which will reduce the potential for a very serious incident. We will continue our work until we get a resolution to this problem.

Write to paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk or to 18 Lilymead Avenue, BS4 2BX

Turn litter police on waste staff I’VE JUST read the article in the December issue of South Bristol Voice from mayor Marvin Rees. He goes on about the success of the litter ‘stasi’ in the city centre robbing people for dropping litter. Perhaps they will patrol our residential streets after the recycle wagon has been through – the city will make a fortune within a very short time, they drop as much as they collect without any attempt to to clear up after themselves. Name supplied, Knowle

Bike hangars point the way THE ONGOING saga of potential bike hangars on Somerset Road has taken another twist with the presentation of a petition to the council against their installation. Those of us in favour of the hangars are going to respond in the New Year, but I wanted to reiterate my personal reasons for supporting the initiative. Firstly, Bristol air pollution consistently exceeds legal limits. We cannot go on like this. In this context, the hangars are a very

POLICE REPORT

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southbristolvoice

LETTERS

Retirement living for the not-so-retiring

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Off Coldharbour Lane, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS16 1EJ

January 2018

hile we are on the topic of road-related incidents, we have also received numerous reports about a driver acting in an anti-social way in the St Agnes Avenue area.

small part of an evolving Bristol bike infrastructure rather than a solution in themselves, but the message they send out is important – we shouldn’t assume cars always have priority. Secondly, not everyone on Somerset Road lives in a house where it’s easy to store bikes. Flat residents have more limited space. For houses on the even side of the street, access to the front door is via steps. If you’re a bike commuter or someone who uses a bike rather than a car as your main means of transport, the difficulties are real. I don’t drive and I used to transport my daughter around by bike. It’s hard work getting a bike up the steps when you’ve also got to get the week’s grocery shopping in the house, you have a toddler to keep from wandering off and you’ve just walked up the hill through Arnos Park from Sainsbury’s. Finally, one of those opposed to the hangars talked in the South Bristol Voice of a “select few parking their bikes every day”. This gives a misleading impression of elitism. Slots will be allocated for a year and priority will be given to those who need them most. Jonathan Wright Somerset Road, Knowle

With PCSO Richard Higbey Broadbury Road police station Although we have attended at the time of the call, the driver has usually left the area. This is very frustrating for us and undoubtedly has an impact on the community. Please do report any issues to us and we can start to put more resources in place to combat the issue.

riendship Road has been subject to a few suspicious incidents of late. Offenders have gained access to sheds and garages and caused damage to other premises. Our enquiries are continuing and we will be in the area. If you see us, please do talk to us. If you have any concerns, please do report them and we will act on them.

n December 8, PC Harriet Wood and I held our first beat surgery at Redcatch Park. A lot of the information

we received about anti-social behaviour, theft and parking problems has helped us to shape our patrol plans in the area, so it really is worth you coming along. Beat surgeries are a great opportunity for us to get to know the people who live here and what’s important to you. We will be holding another one this month, so look out for details which we will display in the park, on our website (link below) and on Redcatch Park Community Garden Facebook and Instagram pages. The surgeries are in their early stages and we want to tailor them to help address the issues that are causing concern. Don’t forget, you can follow what the team are up to on Twitter @ASPBristolSouth Until next time, PCSO Richard Higbey • avonandsomerset.police.uk/ your-area

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

n PLANNING APPLICATIONS 111 Ravenhill Road BS3 5BT Single storey rear extension to extend beyond the rear by 3.2m, of maximum height 3.5m, with eaves 2.5m high. Granted 33 Vivian Street BS3 4LW Rear roof extension and part single storey, part two storey rear extension. Granted subject to conditions 54 Ravenhill Road BS3 5BP Hip to gable of roof and erection of rear dormer roof extension. Granted 54 Ravenhill Road BS3 5BP Single storey side extension. Granted subject to conditions 65 Novers Park Drive BS4 1RH Second storey rear & side extension above existing single storey extension. Granted subject to conditions 13 Leinster Avenue BS4 1NH Construction of two 2-bedroom flats. Pending consideration 13 Leinster Avenue BS4 1NH Construction of three 2-bedroom flats and associated works. Withdrawn 56 Redcatch Road BS4 2EY Loft conversion with rear dormers. Granted subject to conditions 56 Redcatch Road BS4 2EY Raise level of roof. Pending consideration 10 Queensdale Crescent BS4 2TN Single storey rear extension to extend beyond the rear by 3.5m, of maximum height 3.7m with eaves of a maximum

southbristolvoice

height of 2.6m. Pending consideration

45 Hill Avenue BS3 4SR Hip to gable roof extension and erection of rear dormer and second floor extension. Refused Knowle West Children’s Centre, Leinster Avenue BS4 1NN Details in relation to condition 3 (Arboricultural supervision), 4 (Implementation remediation scheme), 6 (Unexpected contamination), 10 (Nature clearance) and 12 (Tree protection) of permission 17/02100/X, which was a variation to permission 16/06476/F for the extension and refurbishment of the Children’s Centre. Granted Knowle West Children’s Centre, Leinster Avenue BS4 1NN Details pursuant to condition 2 (Further details) of permission 17/02100/X: Variation of condition 17 for permission 16/06476/F. Due to issues relating to construction and the existing ground levels, it is requested to raise the proposed three-classroom extension by 340mm. Variation of list of approved drawings. Pending consideration 38 Cotswold Road BS3 4NT Rear dormer roof extension and insertion of roof lights to front elevation in connection with loft conversion. Pending consideration 38 Cotswold Road BS3 4NT Single storey rear extension. Pending consideration 164-188 Bath Road Totterdown BS4 3EF Removal

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January 2018

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Recycling and waste collection calendar Recycling and waste collection calendar Recycling and waste collection calendar Recycling and waste collection calendar 2017-2018 Knowle, Totterdown, Windmill Hill

2017-2018 2017-2018

2017-2018

Your collection day is Monday

Christmas tree kerbside collections

27 reference code:

MON/A

of three advertisements (two one 1-bedroom apartment with Please put bins and 12m x 3m displays, one 6m x 3m garden. Granted subject to reference boxes out by 7am on December ‘17 4th 11th 18th 27th display), to be replaced with two conditions reference code: code: reference code: your collection day and remember to bring them in 6m x 3mYour internally illuminated collection day is Monday Christmas tree kerbside collections January ‘18 3rd 9th 15th 22nd 29th as soon as possible after they Your collection is Monday Your collection day is Monday kerbside collections Christmas tree kerbside collections digital advertisements. PendingdayFilwood Park, Hengrove Christmas tree have been collected. consideration Way Details reserved by Any waste outside your February ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th conditions 4 (Further details), wheelie reference bin and open code: Please put bins and wheelie bins will not be 13 Stockwood Crescent BS4 8 (Implementation of approved Bristol Waste is not delivering collection calendars Please put bins and Please put bins and Your collection day is Monday collections collected. March ‘18 5th 12th Christmas 19th 26th tree kerbside Your collection day isboxes Mondayby 7am on reference Christmascode: tree kerbside collections 1AN Two storey extension to ‘17 contamination remediation December 4th 11th 18th 27th We can recycle all of your this year. Your waste collection and recycling boxes out out by 7am on 18th boxes out by 7am on ‘17 scheme) 4th 11th 18th 27th December ‘17 4th 11th 27th rear. PendingDecember consideration and 14 (PV panels) Christmas cards – please put April ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th your collection day and them in your green box with attached Matters Your collection daytoisReserved Monday Christmas tree kerbside collections calendar is on the next your threecollection pages, forday youand to cut your collection day and any cardboard. Ground floor flat, 12 approval 17/00684/M: 150 Please put bins and remember May ‘18 7th 14th 21st 28th Cardboard needs to be out and keep. remember to to bring bring them them in in remember to bring them in Quantock Road BS3 4PF Side residential units and a new park flattened and folded to the December ‘17 4th 11th 18th 27th boxes out by 7am January ‘18 3rd 9th 15th 22nd 29th size of your greenon box. as soon as possible after they December ‘17 4th 11th 18th 27th and rear extension. Pending (Major3rd application). Granted June ‘18 4th 11th 18th 25th January ‘18 9th 15th 22nd January ‘18 29th 3rd 9th 15th 22nd 29th as soon as possible after as soon as possible after they Please put bins andthey Unfortunately we cannot consideration your collection have been collected. recycle yourday wrappingand paper Which calendar is mine? have been collected. have been collected. Filwood Park, Hengrove boxes out by 7am on because most of it has either December ‘17 4th 11th 18th 27th July ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th remember bring them in ato plastic or foil coating. 5 Exmouth Road BS4 1AZ Way Details in relation It’s easy to tell. your collection day and Any waste outside your January ‘18 3rd 9th 15th 22nd Please use your brown29th caddy Single storey rear extension.‘18 to condition 15 (SAPs) of February 5th 12th 19th 26th August ‘18 6th 29th 13th 20th 27th Any waste outside your Any waste outside your January ‘18 3rd 9th 15th 22nd as soon as possible after they for any food leftovers. February ‘18 5th 17/00684/M: 12th 19th February ‘18 was collected 5th 12th 19th 26th Pending consideration permission If26th your rubbish during the week of remember to bring them in wheelie wheelie bin bin and and open open wheelie bin and open Reserved matters following have been collected. Household Waste youwheelie are on an Awill week. January ‘18 3rd 15th18 December 22nd 2017, 29th asbins soon asnot possible after theySeptember ‘18 3rd 10th 17th 24th Recycling Centres are be 93 Novers Park Drive BS4 outline approval 12/00352/P 9th wheelie bins will not be wheelie bins will closed notonbe 25th and 1RH Loft conversion with for 150 residential units and 26th December 2017 If your rubbish was collected during the week of October ‘18 1st 8th 15th 22nd 29th have been collected. Any waste outside your February ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th collected. March ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th and 1st January 2018. February ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th collected. 12th collected. rear dormer window and‘18 hip a new park March 5th with appearance, 12th 19th 26th March ‘18 2017, you5th 19th 26th Bristol ID required 11 December are on a B week. wheelie bin and open to gable extension. Pending landscaping, layout and scale November ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th Any waste outside your We To find out more about consideration to be considered (Major February ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th We can can recycle recycle all all of of your your Wewheelie can recycle your bins will be whatall goesof in not each of your application). December ‘18 3rd 10th 17th wheelie bin and open recycling boxes please visit Christmas cards – please put Once you have March ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th Christmas cards – please put Christmas cards – please put 158 KenmareApril Road BS4 1PH Pending consideration collected. bristolwastecompany.co.uk 2nd 9th 16th 23rd March ‘18 5thinwheelie 12th 19th 26th 30th bins box will16th not be 23rd April ‘18 ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd April ‘18 30th 30th 2nd 9th them your green with Front porch extension. Granted your week, them identified in your green box with them in your Recycling only green box with Recycling and waste subject to conditions 22 Melbury Road BS4 2RP collected. We can recycle all of your any March ‘18Non-material amendment 5th 12th 19th 26th • Green box, •cardboard. Green box, you can find the any cardboard. cardboard. any Black box Black box Christmas cards – please 41 Imperial Walk BS14 9AD following the grant of planning • Brown food • Brown food April ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30thput correct calendar waste bin waste bin We can recycle all of your May ‘18 7th 14th 21st 28th Cardboard needs April 2nd 9thto 16th 28th 23rd 30th Construction ofMay new dwelling permission single • Black wheelie bin ‘18 7th 17/01772/H: 14th 21st 28th May ‘18 ‘18 7th 14th Cardboard needs to be be21st Cardboard needs to bebox with them in your green with access, screening, parking, storey rear extension and based on the weekday Christmas cards – please put flattened and and folded folded to to the the flattened folded to the bristol.gov.uk/recycle 0117 922 2100 (8.30am 6pmand Mon – Fri) landscaping and associated any–cardboard. April ‘18 replacement garage. 2nd Amendment 9th 16th 23rd 30th flattened your collections them in your green box with size of your green box. works. Withdrawn sought: further extension of size of your green box. size of your green May ‘18 7th 14th 21st 28th box. approved extension to avoid June ‘18 4th 11th 18th 25th (or you can May 7thhappen 14th 21st 28th any cardboard. Cardboard needs to be ‘18 1HD drainage 4th 18th 25th June ‘18‘18 4th 11th 18th 25th Recycling and waste collection calendar 69 HartcliffeJune Road BS4 (1m further).11th Pending Unfortunately we download from our Unfortunately weitcannot cannot Unfortunately wefolded cannot flattened and to the Two storey detached house, with consideration 2017-2018 May ‘18 7th 14th 21st 28th Cardboard needs to be recycle your wrapping paper reference code: parking. Refused website). Make sure recycle your wrapping paper recycle your wrapping paper size of your green box. tree kerbside collections collection day is Monday MON/B 2 Preston Walk BS4 2TP flattened and folded to the Your June ‘18 4th 11th Christmas18th 25th because most of itit has either July ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th June ‘18 4th 11th 18th 25th you are referring to because most of has either because mostPlease of put it bins has either 2 Beaconsfield Road Front porch with WC and a single July ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd July ‘18 30th 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th and size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot aa plastic foil coating. boxes out by 7am on Knowle BS4 2JF Conversion story side and front extension. December ‘17 4th 11th 18th 27th theor right calendar by plastic or foil coating. a plastic or foil coating. your collection day and June ‘18 (New application 4th 18th 25th and extension of outbuilding following 11th remember to bring them inpaper recycle your wrapping checking the code in as soon as possible after they to 1-bed dwelling (Use class similar plan which was refused January ‘18 3rd 9th 15th 22nd 29th Unfortunately wecaddy cannot Please use your brown July ‘18 2nd 9th 16th 23rd 30th have brown been Please use your brown caddy Please use your caddy because most ofcollected. it has either C3). GrantedAugust subject to‘18 in November 2017.) Pending 6th 13th 20th 27th July ‘18 2ndthe 9th 16thpaper 23rd 30th upper right-hand August ‘18 6th 13th 20th 27th August ‘18 6th 13th 20th 27th recycle your wrapping Any waste outside your for any food leftovers. February ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th conditions consideration for any food leftovers. for any food leftovers. wheelie bin and open

and waste collection calendar Recycling and wasteRecycling collection calendar MON/A Recycling and waste collection 2017-2018 calendar 2017-2018 MON/A MON/A

2017-2018

MON/A

July ‘18

59 Somerset Terrace BS3 4LJ Demolition of pair of September ‘18 garages, and construction of ‘18 September one 2-bedroom apartment and

2nd

August ‘18

October October ‘18 ‘18

6th

1st 1st

September ‘18 November November ‘18 ‘18

3rd

10th

1st

November ‘18

Recycling and Recycling and waste waste December ‘18

17th 17th 15th 15th

12th 12th

3rd 3rd

16th

13th

8th 8th

5th 5th

October ‘18 December December ‘18 ‘18

9th

• The status of these applications may have changed since we went 3rd 10th 3rd 10that to press. Check for updates planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

19th 19th 8th

10th 10th

17th 17th

5th

12th

3rd

10th

•• Green Green box, box, www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk Black Black box box •• Brown To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Ruth on 07590 527664 Brownorfood food waste bin and waste wasteRecycling bin •• Black Black wheelie wheelie bin bin

23rd

30th

a plastic or foil coating.

corner. because most of it has either

March ‘18

5th

12th

a plastic orWaste foil ‘18 coating. August 6th 13th 24th August ‘18 6th Household 13th 20th 24th 27th Household Waste April ‘18 2nd 9th 24th September ‘18 3rd 17th The Monday calendars are onRecycling this10th page; the other are Please useCentres your brown caddy Recycling Centres are days are on the following two closed pages.on 25th and May ‘18 7th 14th 20th 27th for anyon food leftovers. closed 25th and September ‘18 3rd 10th11th December June ‘18 4th 22nd 29th September ‘18 1st3rd 26th 10th 2017 17th 24th 26th8th December 2017 October ‘18 29th 15th 22nd 29th If22nd you are on a weekly collection, unsure whether and 1st January 2018. and 1stHousehold January 2018. July ‘18 2nd 9th Waste 17thyour collection 24th is on an A or BBristol week,ID or required if you need BristolRecycling ID required Centres are 1st August ‘18 6th 13th help identifying the right calendar for you, please October ‘18 8th 26th October ‘18 1st 8th 15th 22nd 29th 26th November ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th closed on 25th and contact us: September ‘18 3rd 10th To find out more 26th about December 2017 about 15th 22nd 29th To find out more what each your October ‘18 1st 8th and 1stof January what goes goes in inNovember each of your ‘182018. 5th 12th Call 0117 922 2100 November ‘18 5th 12th 19th 26th recycling boxes please visit December ‘18 3rd 10th Bristol ID17th required November ‘18 5th 12th recycling boxes please visit Email hello@bristolwastecompany.co.uk bristolwastecompany.co.uk

bristolwastecompany.co.uk December ‘18 3rd 10th To find out more about December ‘18 3rd 10th If you would like‘18 a printed3rd calendar sent December 10thto you or 17th Recycling and waste what goes in each of your Recycling only someone else, contact us. Recycling only Recycling only Recycling and waste 17th recycling boxes please visit ••Green Green box, bristolwastecompany.co.uk •You Green box,all this information • Green box, canbox, find and download 19th

26th

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

19th

16th

26th

wheelie bins will not be collected.

Please use27th your brown We can recycle all of your caddy 20th Christmas cards – please put Waste 23rd Household them in your green box with for any30thfood leftovers. any cardboard.

Recycling Centres are Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the closed on 25th and size of your green box. 24th Household Waste 18th 17th 25th 26th December 2017 Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper Recycling Centres are because most of it has either 2018. 16th 23rd and 30th1st January a plastic or foil coating. closed on 25th and Bristol ID Pleaserequired use your brown caddy 20th 27th 15th 22nd for any food leftovers. 29th 26th December 2017 Household Waste 2018. 17th 24th and 1st January Recycling Centres are 21st

28th

To find out more about Bristol ID required 22nd 29th what each of your 19thgoes in26th Bristol ID required 19th 26th recycling boxes please visit find out more about To find outTowhat more about goes in each of your bristolwastecompany.co.uk 17th recycling boxes please visit what goes bristolwastecompany.co.uk in each of your 17th recycling boxes please visit Recycling only bristolwastecompany.co.uk closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018.

15th

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

Black box Recycling only Recycling and waste Black box Black box Black box Recycling only Recycling and waste bristol.gov.uk/recycle 0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri) calendars at www.bristolwastecompany.co.uk • Brown food Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811•766072 email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk • •Brown food Brown food Brownor food bin • Green box, • Green box, Recycling only waste bin •waste Green box, waste bin waste bin box, • Green Black box Black box Black box bin Black box • Black wheelie

Recycling and waste collection calendar

2017-2018

reference code:

Your collection day is Tuesday

December ‘17

5th

12th

19th

28th

January ‘18

4th

10th

16th

23rd

February ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

March ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

April ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

May ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

June ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

July ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

August ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

September ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

October ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

November ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

December ‘18

4th

TUE/A

Christmas tree kerbside collections

11th

30th

Please put bins and boxes out by 7am on your collection day and remember to bring them in as soon as possible after they have been collected. Any waste outside your wheelie bin and open wheelie bins will not be collected. We can recycle all of your Christmas cards – please put them in your green box with any cardboard.

29th

31st

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating. Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers. Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

30th

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

18th

Recycling and waste collection calendar

2017-2018

reference code:

Your collection day is Wednesday

December ‘17

6th

13th

20th

29th

January ‘18

5th

11th

17th

24th

February ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

March ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

April ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

May ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

June ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

July ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

August ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

September ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

October ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

November ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

December ‘18

5th

12th

WED/A

Christmas tree kerbside collections

31st

30th

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating.

29th

Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers. Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

31st

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

19th

reference code:

Your collection day is Thursday

December ‘17

7th

14th

21st

30th

January ‘18

6th

12th

18th

25th

February ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

March ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

April ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

May ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

June ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

July ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

August ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

September ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

October ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

November ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

December ‘18

6th

THU/A

Christmas tree kerbside collections

13th

Please put bins and boxes out by 7am on your collection day and remember to bring them in as soon as possible after they have been collected.

29th

Any waste outside your wheelie bin and open wheelie bins will not be collected. We can recycle all of your Christmas cards – please put them in your green box with any cardboard.

31st

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating.

30th

Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers. Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

29th To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

20th

reference code:

Your collection day is Friday

December ‘17

1st

8th

15th

22nd

January ‘18

2nd

8th

13th

19th

February ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

March ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

April ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

May ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

June ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

July ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

August ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

September ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

October ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

November ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

December ‘18

7th

14th

21st

26th

30th

29th

31st

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

Recycling and waste collection calendar

2017-2018

reference code:

Your collection day is Tuesday

December ‘17

5th

12th

19th

28th

January ‘18

4th

10th

16th

23rd

February ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

March ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

April ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

May ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

June ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

July ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

August ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

September ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

October ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

November ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

December ‘18

4th

TUE/B

Christmas tree kerbside collections

11th

30th

29th

31st

30th

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

18th

December ‘17

6th

13th

20th

29th

January ‘18

5th

11th

17th

24th

February ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

March ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

April ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

May ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

June ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

July ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

August ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

September ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

October ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

November ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

December ‘18

5th

12th

WED/B

Christmas tree kerbside collections

31st

30th

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating.

29th

Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers. Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

31st

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

19th

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

2017-2018 reference code:

Your collection day is Thursday

December ‘17

7th

14th

21st

30th

January ‘18

6th

12th

18th

25th

February ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

March ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

April ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

May ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

June ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

July ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

August ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

September ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

October ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

November ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

December ‘18

6th

THU/B

Christmas tree kerbside collections

13th

Please put bins and boxes out by 7am on your collection day and remember to bring them in as soon as possible after they have been collected.

29th

Any waste outside your wheelie bin and open wheelie bins will not be collected. We can recycle all of your Christmas cards – please put them in your green box with any cardboard.

31st

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box. Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating.

30th

Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers. Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

29th To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

20th

reference code:

Your collection day is Friday

December ‘17

1st

8th

15th

22nd

January ‘18

2nd

8th

13th

19th

February ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

March ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

April ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

May ‘18

4th

11th

18th

25th

June ‘18

1st

8th

15th

22nd

July ‘18

6th

13th

20th

27th

August ‘18

3rd

10th

17th

24th

September ‘18

7th

14th

21st

28th

October ‘18

5th

12th

19th

26th

November ‘18

2nd

9th

16th

23rd

December ‘18

7th

14th

21st

26th

30th

29th

31st

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

Recycling and waste

Recycling only

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating. Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers.

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box.

30th

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

Any waste outside your wheelie bin and open wheelie bins will not be collected.

Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

Recycling only

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Please put bins and boxes out by 7am on your collection day and remember to bring them in as soon as possible after they have been collected.

We can recycle all of your Christmas cards – please put them in your green box with any cardboard.

Recycling and waste

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

FRI/B

Christmas tree kerbside collections

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Please use your brown caddy for any food leftovers.

Recycling and waste collection calendar

reference code:

Your collection day is Wednesday

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Unfortunately we cannot recycle your wrapping paper because most of it has either a plastic or foil coating.

To find out more about what goes in each of your recycling boxes please visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

Cardboard needs to be flattened and folded to the size of your green box.

30th

Recycling only

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

Any waste outside your wheelie bin and open wheelie bins will not be collected.

Household Waste Recycling Centres are closed on 25th and 26th December 2017 and 1st January 2018. Bristol ID required

Recycling and waste

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

Please put bins and boxes out by 7am on your collection day and remember to bring them in as soon as possible after they have been collected.

We can recycle all of your Christmas cards – please put them in your green box with any cardboard.

• Green box, Black box • Brown food waste bin • Black wheelie bin

bristol.gov.uk/recycle

FRI/A

Christmas tree kerbside collections

0117 922 2100 (8.30am – 6pm Mon – Fri)

January 2018

southbristolvoice

January 2018

southbristolvoice

n THE MAYOR

INVITATION

MARVIN REES Mayor of Bristol

At the coldest time of year, let’s not forget those without a roof above them

HAPPY New Year to you all, and I hope you all had an enjoyable Christmas. I’d like to wish everyone in the city the best of luck for the year ahead and hope you are looking forward to the challenges and accomplishments that it might hold as much as I am. While many people will have been out celebrating this festive season, it’s important we spare some time to remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves. This year we are seeing a rise in homelessness rates across the country and while we are working towards our long term goal of being able to deliver 800 affordable

homes a year by 2020, we also have to consider a range of solutions to solve the immediate problems vulnerable people are facing during these cold winter months. I am proud to say that Bristol will again be ensuring that 100 extra beds are available for people sleeping rough in the city when the cold weather hits, as part of the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol. The Bristol Churches Winter Night Shelter project, which was started as part of the work

carried out by the City Office, is back again for an extended run and is due to open for three months from Friday January 5. I am really grateful to the 12 churches that have once again answered the call from the City Office and will be opening their doors in people’s time of need. When I visited the project last year I was overwhelmed by the positivity and dedication of everyone involved and it is great to see it continued and expanded this year. We are also continuing to work with other organisations across the city to make sure we can address our severe homelessness problem as quickly as possible and get help out to those who need it most. Our city’s night shelters are run by some great organisations who work throughout the year to make sure the homeless in our city have a support network to rely on. These groups have now come together to make one appeal called Safer Off the Streets (#SOSBristol) which can help people to fund the great work that our night shelters do. For just £17, you could fund a new bed for the night for someone who really needs it. These night shelters are free for the people who use them. For more information and to offer a donation, head to: • fundsurfer.com/project/bristol-roughsleeping-partnership

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January 2018

southbristolvoice

n COLUMNS In witch I survive Christmas

HANK goodness that’s over. A month of preparation, parties, presents and panic. I am not a fan. This year Evil wore me down and we purchased a fake white tree, gold trimmings and a million white twinkling lights. Evil was literally purring with delight as she loves all things fake (eyebrows, nails and hair). I prefer natural and have always dragged a real tree into the house at Christmas. I tolerated the white fakeness for one whole night before whizzing down to the local pub and doing a deal with a toothless tree trader. ”£7 per foot,” she lisped. We haggled, agreed to pay what she originally wanted and I came home with a large, luscious, wholesome real tree.

Who is the Wicked Witch? She flies too high to be seen at this time of year ...

OF KNOWLE

Obviously Evil was evil about the new tree until I told her that the white monstrosity was heading up to her bedroom. She gleefully lugged it up the stairs, dropping gold stars as she went. By this point I was tired of trees and decorating them. I rammed it into an old tree stand and shoved on two sets of coloured lights, an array of multi-coloured baubles and strings of threadbare tinsel. It was not tasteful. I ran upstairs collecting Evil’s discarded gold stars, shouting “10 meals for camp” like a contestant on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of

Here and giggling to myself. Then CRASH. I stopped laughing. I ran downstairs. My lovely real tree had launched out of its stand and rolled around the floor. There was a large puddle of water making its way to the overloaded extension lead, and delicate baubles had smashed. I started to swear loudly, had a little cry, then grabbed the saw and attacked the tree, cutting off branches so the trunk would fit deeper into the stand. About fifty quid’s worth of branches ended up in my back garden and the remaining tree was so short it had to be put on a table. I wanted my parents to spend Christmas with us. They like their own bed so I said we would collect them from far way and drop them back after. I planned to have a lovely family day full of fun, games and nice food. “No thanks,” said my Dad. “We are going to have a nice

Down on the Farm News from Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster

quiet Christmas with just the two of us and the ping of the microwave”. What? That was not an option, damn it. They had to come to us, eat too much, play silly games and bloody well enjoy themselves. They locked the doors, switched off the lights and considered it their best Christmas ever. Of course it is not the same now. Most of my children are old and go down the pub on Christmas Eve. I really miss those years when they eagerly went to bed early in giddy anticipation of what Father Christmas was going to bring. Watching their faces light up with total amazement and delight when opening their presents made my heart sing until they asked why they hadn’t got the Playstation they really wanted. Bring on 2018 and the madness this year has for us. But first pass me the saw, I’ve got a tree to burn.

• windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk

Fund Fair

Well I’ll be ...

ROUND 800 local people attended the farm Christmas fair, despite the cold snap, making it a great success. People really enjoyed the homemade focus, with wreaths, jams, chutneys and gifts made by farm volunteers, and workshops to teach children how to make their own Christmas pressies. The slippy pole challenge was tried out by lots of children, as was mining for crystals in the grotto and cooking at the campfire – proving that you don’t need a screen to have fun! As well as providing entertainment and inspiration for local families, all of the farm’s events raise muchneeded funds for the charity.

The farm was recently recognised to have achieved excellence in all eight categories of the Bristol City Council Workplace Wellbeing Charter. It was one of only two Bristol organisations to reach this high standard. The charter aims to promote positive physical and mental health and wellbeing in workplaces across the city. Burges Salmon solicitors was the other winner.

More awards! As mentioned last issue, the farm was nominated in two categories in the VOSCUR social impact awards. At a swanky ceremony at We The Curious in November, the farm won the Community Venue of the Year award. VOSCUR said “With voting fiercer than ever before and thousands of votes cast, the event once again proves just how

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Winners: Farm chief executive Steve Sayers, trustee Jamie Darwen and chair of trustees Chris Heaton accept the award valued the work of our sector is, and how critical it is to the happy, healthy lives of people and communities in our city.” And described the farm as “an exciting community space providing a much needed green oasis in the middle of a very urban area.”

A farm farewell

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The farm said goodbye to a long-standing member of staff in December. Nicky Bacon was the farm’s health and social care manager and had been there for 16 years, working with hundreds of local people in this time. Nicky was just one of the many longserving members of staff – it seems the farm is a great place to work! Keep an eye out on the jobs page of the farm website for upcoming vacancies.

southbristolvoice

RSPCA UPDATE

THE WICKED WITCH

January 2018

Chicken run Thanks to a donation from the Fittleworth Grass Roots Fund, through the Quartet Community Foundation, the farm chickens are clucking with joy having been built a lovely new home. The Chicken Palace, as farm staff have nicknamed it, has welcomed some new layer hens too, which has seen egg production increase significantly. You can buy these eggs in the farm shop.

Veganna try it! In the spirit of Stoptober and Movember, the farm café is taking part in Veganuary, a national initiative encouraging people to give a vegan diet a try for a month, and maybe more. The farm café will feature some great vegan specials on their menu throughout January – pop in and try something! • veganuary.com

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33 From Bristol Dogs & Cats Home

Could you make 2018 bright for Lexi and Henry?

ENRY is a Staffordshire bull terrier and he has been with us at Bristol Dogs & Cats Home for nine months. He’s a loveable lad who has so much affection to give, but unfortunately he hasn’t found the right person to give it to yet. He can be slightly wary of new people when he first meets them, but after a bit of time building up confidence he will prove to be a loyal friend. His favourite things include playing with his toys, food-based training and walkies. But most of all he just wants belly rubs and all the attention you can give him. Lexi is our longest-staying dog who has been here a bit longer – 11 months. She has been with us since the start of February when she was found as a stray. Unfortunately no owner came forward for Lexi. It soon became clear that Lexi had had a fairly difficult start to life and has likely had a bad experience with

These loveable dogs haven’t had the best start but they deserve a proper home

other dogs. Because of this, Lexi will need a special home. Lexi is friendly and affectionate when she builds a bond with you. She loves to play with toys and has good basic obedience. She wouldn’t be able to live in a highly dog-populated area, and would benefit from a home which will dedicate time to her all-important training! Lexi has come on in leaps and bounds

Lacking in confidence: Henry, left, and Lexi need time to build a bond since arriving at our doors. Both she and Henry are hoping for a bright start to 2018 in the shape of a brand new

home. Head to our website for all of their details or give us a call on 0117 977 6043. • rspca-bristol.org.uk

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January 2018

southbristolvoice

n YOUR COUNCILLORS

Knowle

OU COULD not make it up. A few months after thousands of people backed our local campaign to Gary save Jubilee pool in Hopkins Knowle, the mayor Lib Dem has brought the Knowle threat back to the table. Operator Parkwood Leisure (which also runs the leisure centre at Hengrove) agreed only last autumn to continue to run Jubilee for a further five years without council subsidy. The mayor and his deputy Asher Craig claimed that there had never been a threat to close Jubilee pool, and that the decisions made by firstly the cabinet and then supported by Labour councillors in the full council budget debate were “mistakes”. So now we have a new council consultation – a draft strategy document for sports and recreation facilities for Bristol

How to contact your councillor: p2

from 2017-2022. This document NE OF the Whitchurch Wells Road park and states there should be no further casualties ride has been downgraded and spending on Jubilee, and then in of the will probably never be delivered a separate part of the document mismanagement without a major rethink. it states that Jubilee will either by Bristol city The A37 Wells Road will have to closed or be handed council was a become a very long car park and across for community groups to proper discussion this will have a very negative Chris run. of the regional effect upon the local economy as Davies This is clearly not some kind spatial plan. The well as the quality of life of so Lib Dem of typo and the threat is real. years of work many Bristolians. Knowle There are no timescales in the and 300 pages Throwing up thousands of “consultation” and it is vital that were allocated 30 minutes for houses without proper planning everybody that cares about discussion at full council. This for schools creates a nightmare Jubilee responds. plan decides where more than but the mayor and his team In the meantime I will be 100,000 new houses will be plough on regardless. chasing up with officers to get to built in the former Avon area The major development the bottom of what the proposal and how they will be supported should of course be taking place actually is and what the by transport links and other instead near Ashton Vale, which timescales are. We also need to necessary public services. has far better transport links and have Plan B ready for when the Bristol will pay dearly for this is much nearer to the city centre. Mayor tries to close Jubilee if changes do not happen. Poor negotiating between the again. The first glaring failure in various councils produced this The council has an online what is supposed to be a bodged plan, but the majority of survey which is accepting comprehensive, high-level plan is councillors failed to object or feedback until February 20, the huge development planned vote against. 2018. for Whitchurch, together with the The “plan” will now be The “consultation” can be massive building plans for consulted upon and we will have found at the link below. Hengrove, being completely to rely upon the planning • bristol.citizenspace.com/ unsupported by the right inspector correcting the neighbourhoods/sport-activeinfrastructure. The Hengrove mistakes. Do not say you were Right at Home is park oneRight ofhas the UK’s most at Home is oneand of the recreation-facility-strategy/ disappeared theUK’s mostnot warned. trusted care companies. trusted Our carelocal companies. 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January 2018

southbristolvoice

n YOUR COUNCILLORS

T IS with some relief I welcome the decision to retain the school crossing patrol serving Jon Hillcrest primary Wellington school on Wells Labour Road, one of the Windmill Hill busiest commuter roads in Bristol. Hillcrest parents organised themselves well to respond to the consultation in large numbers and to publicise their concerns widely, and they demonstrated how vital this service is to the children of the school. The presence of an engineered crossing is just not enough to deter dangerous driving on this particular road. I attended the parents’ on-road protest and spoke to them. Even with the presence of dozens of children and parents and press cameras on either side of the road, some cars still ran the red light, and the speed of cars whipping through to beat the red light was terrifying. I also

Windmill Hill

met the school’s new headteacher to discuss this. In a meeting with the local police beat manager, he told me about an exercise on the lights they conducted the summer before last. Police stopped six drivers in an hour to warn them for running red lights. I included all this in my response to the consultation. I have to accept that there are cuts to be made that will affect people in our ward. However, it was impossible for me to defend this one as I am convinced that the lollipop man prevents accidents and possibly worse. There are also lessons to be learned from this consultation. We need to see a more inclusive style of consultation involving the school, parents, police, councillors and others, and the discussion or presentation of possible alternatives. Speaking of which, the consultation on the future of parks funding is online now: • bristol.citizenspace.com/ neighbourhoods/parks-andgreen-spaces/

How to contact your councillor: p2

WAS thrilled to see that, after a fantastic campaign by parents, teachers and Lucy local campaigners, Whittle the council have Labour decided to retain Windmill Hill the very popular lollipop man on Wells Road. The hard work by campaigners and Cllr Jon Wellington ensured evidence that the junction was not safe came before the council, and persuaded them that the lollipop man was essential for children’s safety. Well done all! Are you concerned about speeding on your street? The Community Corners project is offering funding for four streets in Bristol to tackle the issue of speeding. Projects could include installing planters and trees, putting up seating areas, and road paintings. They would need a few committed residents on the street to lead and engage neighbours in installing the

street furniture, and hold meetings. The project would help with street design and in organising workshops. Please contact me if you are interested. It was wonderful to see the Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade again light up the streets with lanterns and musical bands, ending with a spectacular firework display in South Street Park. My daughter and I were involved in the first ever parade, so it has been a joy to watch it grow. The BWL group decided to share this year’s bucket collection with the local charity, Help Bristol’s Homeless. This time of year can be difficult for many people, especially those struggling financially, isolated, or homeless. So it is heart-warming to see how many people volunteer their time and money to help. You could think about donating some food to a local food bank. Collections are often placed in supermarkets, and the charities that distribute the food would be grateful for anything you can spare.

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southbristolvoice

n HISTORY

January 2018

DAME CLARA BUTT, THE SOUTH BRISTOL MEGASTAR

The voice of an angel who spread wings Dame Clara Butt was one of the first international singing superstars – and she lived in a humble terrace in Totterdown WE TAKE superstars for granted nowadays. We expect the truly famous to exhibit extravagant spending habits, high-handed behaviour and a complete isolation from the public who made them famous. Indeed, we’re a bit sceptical about celebrities in general, because there seem to be so many of them, and some take their fame as a licence for bad behaviour. Perhaps it’s time, then, that we remembered one of the first global superstars – possibly the only one who spent her formative years in South Bristol. Singer Dame Clara Butt was for almost four decades one of the most famous names in the world. But to call her a singer and compare her to, say, Madonna, is to do her an injustice: Clara had one of the most extraordinary voices in the world. Extraordinarily deep for a woman, she also had a tremendous range. Perhaps her healthy build helped: she stood 6ft 2in (1.87m) tall, which even today would make her a towering presence, and had the lungs to sustain her notes. She was capable of meeting the physical demands of opera, but she mostly used her voice to stir the emotions with more popular songs. Yet her talent attracted the attention of the most eminent composers. Edward Elgar wrote his song cycle Sea Pictures with Clara in mind as soloist. She was admired by the eminent French composer SaintSaens; and Sir Arthur Sullivan, better known as the composing partner in Gilbert and Sullivan, wrote The Lost Chord for her. One of her favourite selections was Land of Hope and Glory, the stirring march by Elgar, of which she gave the first performance in 1902. Famous now as the finale

to Last Night of the Proms, it’s seen by some as a better national anthem than God Save The Queen. Her signature tune was Abide With Me, which had long been a popular hymn, but was made into an enduring classic by Clara, when sung to an arrangement written for her by her fellow student Samuel Liddle. Clara Butt was one of the first performers to travel the world. She amassed enormous fame and wealth, and she did so in style, travelling with a retinue of up to 40 people, both family and assistants. Yet she did this without, it seems, being accused of being a prima donna. She was forever beloved of the people of Bristol, because, although she lived only 10 years here, she regarded it as her home city. She spent her formative years, and learned her craft, while living in Totterdown and Bedminster. South Bristol, it seems, helps keep even a superstar’s feet on the ground.

lara’s parents were neither of them shy or retiring types. Her mother, Clara Hook, eloped at the age of 16 with Henry Butt, 21, then a trawlerman in Shoreham on the Sussex coast. Neither family approved of the match and the young couple were left to fend for themselves. They went to Jersey where Henry had roots, and had a son, also called Henry. Clara often went to sea with her husband, by then the skipper of a fishing boat, even though she was pregnant again, and on a stormy night at the end of January 1872, they were forced to put in at the little Sussex village of Southwick. There Clara junior was born, narrowly avoiding starting her life in the middle of the English Channel. In 1874 they moved back to Jersey, and four years later in 1878, when little Clara was six, they moved to Bristol. The family settled in Totterdown, though for the first two years it’s not clear where they lived. From 1880 to 1886 they lived at 3 Sydney Terrace, Totterdown – which we know now as Bellevue Road, and where there is now a plaque to the famous former resident. Then,

January 2018

n HISTORY

southbristolvoice

DAME CLARA BUTT, THE SOUTH BRISTOL MEGASTAR

in South Bristol and conquered the world

In the innocent days when children collected cards from cigarette packets, the face of Clara Butt was found on cards from Wills of Bristol

Dame Clara by artist Reginald Edward Higgins. This painting and other Clara Butt items are on display in the M Shed. PICTURE: © Bristol Culture

for the rest of her life. Another their fortunes perhaps mishap followed. Aged eight, improving, they moved to 94 while still recovering from Coronation Road, Southville, diphtheria, she was in the known as Mida Villa, where they kitchen at Sydney Terrace when a were to stay until 1893. Henry younger brother, Freddie, pushed had become a shipbuilder when past her and upset a pan of stew, he moved to Bristol and the which scalded Clara’s legs. family took on an air of Her father immediately pulled respectability, employing a off the screaming girl’s stockings, nanny for their six children. but her burned flesh came off The nanny may have been too, leaving a nasty wound that hired because she was cheap soon became infected. rather than competent Such injuries were because (according to the cause of many Clara’s biographer, Maurice Leonard) on deaths in the days a trip to the seaside before antibiotics, and she decided to teach once again young Clara to swim by Clara’s life was in the throwing her in the balance. She recovered water. but she was not able to “A breaker carried go back to school for Plaque at Clara’s house, almost a year. her out and the 3 Bellevue Road terrified nanny had to Clara had not long quickly grab her, started at her first otherwise she might have school, Bath Road Academy, drowned. Clara never did learn when she fell ill with diptheria. to swim,” Leonard wrote. The Leonard book says it was “a Behind closed doors at handsome old building shaded Sydney Terrace, the family was by a purple lilac tree”, but it’s not so grand. Clara slept nose to unclear now exactly where it was. tail with her elder brother, and Also of uncertain location was when he caught diptheria, it was Clara’s secondary school, the almost inevitable that she would South Bristol High School. It catch it too. Henry, tragically, seems likely this was somewhere died, and Clara took a long time in Bedminster, this being the to recover, being left with a heart most populated part of South condition which would affect her Bristol at the time. (If any

readers can tell the Voice where either of these schools were, we’ll be very grateful.)

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t’s hard for us to imagine how different music was in the days before there were recordings. Now we can satisfy our appetite for any kind of performance, from opera to punk, by slipping on our earphones and trawling the internet. In the 1870s, all music was live – and the most accessible instrument was the human voice. Hence singing was not a casual activity to while away time in the bathroom, but a source of enjoyment for the whole family (assuming, of course, that one’s relatives weren’t tone-deaf). In the days before recordings and TV, listening to a talented offspring singing or playing the piano was the best home entertainment that could be hoped for. And in those days of widespread churchgoing, there was a ready stage for everyone to perform. Clara’s father was a passionate believer who frequented the large Bible Christian chapel at Redcliffe Crescent – actually on part of York Road, facing the New Cut. It was probably here that

Clara acquired not only her own fervent Christian beliefs but her love of dramatic and sacred songs – the kind for which she would be best remembered. It was then she first heard Abide With Me, the unbearably melodramatic hymn which had been written in 1847 by curate Henry Lyle shortly before he died of tuberculosis. It tugged Clara’s heartstrings even as a child. Decades later, in 1934, a famous evangelist, Gipsy Smith, told to a packed congregation at the Hebron Methodist church in Sion Road, Bedminster, that he remembers standing in front of young Clara at the Crescent chapel while she was singing in the choir, “and that was when she gave her heart to Christ,” he said. Clara’s first music teacher, a

while she was still at the Bath Road school, was a Miss Adelaide Fincken. Clara found she liked singing, but piano playing not so much, and practising still less. Later, in Coronation Road, their neighbour, Mrs Brooks, took over the tuition. Mrs B was a soprano, and taught Clara as if she had the same vocal range. But it was becoming clear that there was something special about this young voice. Miss Fincken later said it was a “strange, sweet voice … not in the least like any voice, child’s or woman’s … ever heard.” Clara went to the Colston Hall to hear a performance by the contralto Belle Cole. At home she tried singing in this lower register, and found she could do so easily. She took to belting out songs in the front room at Mida Villa for the benefit of passers by. When Clara was 12 she started attending South Bristol High School. It happened that she was singing away in the front parlour when her new headmistress, Miss Cook, called to see her mother. “What a fine voice your son has”, said Miss Cook to Mrs Butt, not being able to see the singer. Laughter followed when it was explained that the voice was Clara’s; but Miss Cook could not believe that Clara was being taught to sing the high notes of a soprano. The headmistress called in Dan Rootham, the conductor of the Bristol Festival Choir. He was in no doubt that Clara was a natural contralto, and told her: “You have gold in your throat, dear child.”

his was the beginning of Clara’s success. She had already begun performing at Wedmore Vale Methodist church – her first public solo,

Bravo Bristol: Sung by Clara, with words by Bristol barrister Fred Weatherly and music by Ivor Novello. It was a World War I rallying cry in 1915, to recruit soldiers to a new Bristol battalion. One verse went: And when the seas are free again And the bloody fields are won We’ll tell our Bristol children What Bristol men have done Their deeds shall ring forever From Avon to the sea And the sound of the march of the Bristol men The song of their sons shall be.

Two Children Out In The Cold, was delivered in a voice weak with nerves, made worse by a pair of new shoes that squeaked as she walked on stage. Now she became the star singer at South Bristol High, performing at Bible evenings and school performances. Rootham took her on as a pupil and a member of the Festival Choir, and trained her as a contralto. Clara’s biographer, Maurice Leonard, thinks this was to become a key reason for her enormous popularity. In those days, when people loved to sing, or be sung to, not everyone could manage the high notes of a soprano. But the contralto register was accessible to plenty of amateurs. If you went to a concert and liked a song, you couldn’t buy the recording, as you can now; but you could buy the sheet music, and plenty of people had pianos on which to knock out the tune. Clara was rarely accused of being a prima donna. But she did show an absolute dedication to her performance, as she soon showed. She began to sing at home in little soirées arranged by her mother, and then to perform by request for church groups or other local societies. She was paid as much as a guinea a time – a small fortune for a teenage girl, worth £110 today after allowing for inflation. She often drove to events with her mother in a “pillbox”, a small horse and trap carriage, often with young Clara at the reins. It was at about this time that Clara showed her determination to give her best. She was singing at a temperance (anti-alcohol) meeting at the Crescent chapel – probably a big affair, because the chapel could hold 750 people. (Despite her religious fervour, temperance was not one of Clara’s creeds: she was later to enjoy the taste of wine.) The first half of the concert did not go well: Clara was not happy with her pianist. In the interval she met Alice Jenkins, a girl she knew, and found out she could play the piano. Acting on impulse, she asked Alice to take over. The original pianist was much offended. But Alice and Clara’s first song proved them right: Clara Continued overleaf

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n HISTORY

DAME CLARA BUTT, THE SOUTH BRISTOL MEGASTAR

DAME NELLIE FALLS OUT WITH DAME CLARA

to Auckland. Travelling through Australia with Nellie Melba was like riding through France with Marie Antoinette, a companion recalled: she handed out lavish tiepins as if they were medals from royalty. Yet while Dame Clara was seen

as a singer who could wrench genuine depths of emotion from every performance, some critics thought Dame Nellie less accomplished. George Bernard Shaw, who was once a music critic, said Melba was

“hard, shallow, self-sufficient and altogether unsympathetic,” while the conductor Sir Thomas Beecham believed she was “wanting in genuine spiritual refinement”. Whatever the two dames thought of each other, they managed to avoid falling out – except for one occasion in 1928, when an Australian journalist, Winifred Ponder, published a biography of Clara. In it, she quoted Clara as saying that when she had been about to start a tour of Australia, Nellie advised her: “Sing ‘em muck; it is all they understand.” It was a slur on Nellie’s adoring Australian public. She denied ever saying such a thing, and threatened to sue for libel. Clara said she had no idea that the passage was to appear in the book: she was supposed to have been sent the proofs by Ponder while she was staying in India, but they didn’t arrive. Clara told the press she would send a cable to Nellie, and was “most sorry” that the incident occurred. This seems to be short of an apology, however, or a complete denial that Nellie had uttered the offending words. Nellie was magnanimous in public: ”It is merely a stupid mistake,” she said. “I would never dream of saying such a thing. I am delighted to see that Dame Clara Butt has issued a denial.” There is a tale, though, that Nellie added: “From what I know of dear Clara’s repertoire, she would hardly need this advice.” Superstar spats, it seems, started a lot earlier than we might think.

often close to letting her feelings overwhelm her, and tried to remember Rootham’s advice that a singer must have a warm heart but a cool head. The odd guinea that Clara was earning helped fund her new taste for fine dresses. She splashed out on a scarlet satin frock, and on her way out grabbed a couple of tomatoes, as she believed they were good for the voice. But the tomatoes were crushed in her pocket – luckily the stain was not as ruinous on a red dress as it could have been on a white one. Her earnings mostly went to the family coffers, however. This was the start of another trend: Henry Butt was not a business success. One ship he had

invested in sank, and his business partner drowned with it. Clara’s earnings became more important until, during her years as a megastar, her family were part of her entourage, living in a series of staterooms in hotels and liners, surrounded by a score of staff in lesser quarters. Within three years Rootham realised he had taught Clara, then aged 16, all he could. Clara herself was determined to make a career in music, with the backing of her father and her siblings – though her mother was not keen. So it was her father who accompanied Clara to an audition at the Royal Albert Hall in London for a scholarship to the Royal College of Music. To a distinguished panel,

Clara sang The Enchantress, an ambitious, dramatic piece that showed off her wide range and emotional appeal. The judges were taken aback with the strength of the performance and it showed on their faces. Clara was convinced she had failed – but she was wrong. All Bristol was delighted when she won a full scholarship to the most prestigious musical college in the land. One whip-round at her farewell concert at the Tyndale Lecture hall raised £60 (worth at least £6,000 today). The scene was set: Clara was leaving Bristol for the big time. But she never forgot her home town, and throughout her decades of success she often returned the charitable favours

HE OTHER female musical superstar of the early 20th century was Dame Nellie Melba. It would not be too surprising that these two classically-trained but enormously popular and wealthy singers were arch-rivals. Nellie – born Helen Mitchell near Melbourne, Australia, in 1861 – was, if anything, an even bigger star than Clara. They had much in common. Both were recognised as having exceptional voices capable of singing opera, but both chose a more popular repertoire of hymns and melodramatic lyrics. Both were already famous on the outbreak of World War One, and both thought it their duty to sing for the war effort. Clara had raised £40,000 or so for charities by 1917 (worth £18.5 million in purchasing power today). Nellie, who declared she was so dedicated to the Allied cause that she would work as a docker if needed, raised even more – perhaps £100,000, or £39m today. Their wartime dedication to relentless rounds of concerts won them both the title of Dame of the British Empire once the conflict was over. And they sometimes shared the stage: for example, they both sang at the Royal Albert Hall in 1919 at a “patriotic charity concert” in aid of the Guard’s Home for Daughters of Guardsmen. Both won tremendous affection across the English-speaking world, playing to packed houses from London to New York, and Sydney

Continued from page 37 sang Frederic Cowen’s difficult piece Light in Darkness, and Alice played it perfectly, by sight. She was to accompany Clara on and off throughout her career.

aniel Rootham soon had Clara singing with some of the nation’s most accomplished musicians. She sang with soprano Lilian Nordica and the baritone Sir George Henschel. As well as the rigorous training the choir provided, she also heeded Rootham’s advice, because he often went to the heart of the matter. Clara’s ability to tap into deep emotion was part of her appeal, and she was already beginning to be recognised in Bristol. She was

January 2018

“Wantingin spiritual refinement’: Australia’s darling, Nellie Melba ‘Wanting

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n HISTORY

DAME CLARA BUTT, THE SOUTH BRISTOL MEGASTAR

Early tutor: Daniel Rootham PHOTO: courtesy the Cyril Rootham website at http://rootham.org

Sir Edward Elgar: Wrote Land of Hope and Glory at Clara’s request

Dame Clara with sons Roy, left, and Victor, right, with daughter Joy. This picture was taken between 1910 and 1915, possibly on landing in New York at the start of a US tour. Both sons were to die tragically young

the city had done her. Clara’s fame began to mount before she had left the Royal College. She met the Prince of Wales, who liked her so much, he asked her to do an impromptu performance when he chanced to meet her in Baker Street. Students at the Royal College were not supposed to perform professionally, but an exception was made for Clara, partly because of the public interest in her, and also to enable her to send money home to her family. Her debut was at the Albert Hall, performing Gluck’s Orpheus. The reaction was so positive that the Royal College itself basked in the glory of its pupil. “That she is by far the best singer that has ever come from the Royal College of Music is beyond dispute,” said the Times. She was feted by the actors Henry Irving and Ellen Terry, and Queen Victoria invited her to perform at Buckingham Palace. News of the striking, amazingly tall contralto with an incomparable voice and an startling ability to stir the emotions assured Clara’s fame. Still a student in 1891, she was in the bath when she was told someone was downstairs wanting to show her some songs. The caller was asked to return the next day. It was Edward Elgar – to many, Britain’s greatest

composer – and he wanted to show her the early drafts of his Sea Pictures. Clara was to debut the song cycle in 1899. The collaboration with Elgar was to continue, and inspired some of the composer’s best work. The role of the angel in Dream of Gerontius was written for Clara. Land of Hope and Glory came about when she heard Elgar’s march from Pomp and Circumstance; she is supposed to have said, “What a tune, why don’t you write a song for me and use that as a refrain?”

here is simply no room to list all Clara’s musical accomplishments over her long career. At no point on her tours of the world however, did she forget or neglect her home city. At the start of her international career in 1893, she sang at the Bristol Festival in the Colston Hall, before she kept a date in Paris to sing angel’s Delilah for Saint-Saens. Her engagement to the bass baritone Robert Kennerley Rumford was as big news as a royal romance, and when she returned to Bristol for her wedding in the cathedral the honour for the city was tremendous – she was offered the use of St Paul’s cathedral, but turned it down. The occasion, on June 26, 1900, was like a royal

wedding. The whole city had the day off to join the celebrations and it seemed as if most of the population were on the streets from early morning. Special trains were arranged from London, and church bells rang. The people of the city contributed to a spectacular wedding gift – a diamond and ruby brooch in the shape of the letters CB – which of course stood not only for Clara Butt but City of Bristol. (The brooch was later donated by Clara’s daughter to Bristol Museum, and it is now on show, with other memorabilia, in the M Shed.) Guests at the wedding included Nellie Melba. On the same day Clara paid off her father’s £600 overdraft (£59,000 today) and some other debts for her family. Then began her long and often gruelling years of fame and touring, from Europe to the United States and Australia. Clara and her husband lived in great style in a Hampstead mansion, later adding a home by the sea and a retreat in Oxfordshire. She never lost her taste for spectacular dresses, including one decorated with grapes. She also showed a commercial acumen that many later stars would envy: it seemed there was not a product she would not

endorse for money. these included the Grafonola gramophone: “several years in advance of any other gramophone”, she said; and the Schiedmayer piano: “such a help to the voice”. Things named after her included soaps, perfumes, ice creams and racehorses. More alarming to the modern eye is her endorsement of cigarettes – not from Wills of Bristol, but a brand called Wix. It was not unusual then, when there was little restriction on bogus claims in advertising, to see Clara claiming that “I never have the slightest huskiness from Wix.” What better endorsement for a cigarette maker than from someone whose fame and fortune depended on her voice?

hroughout her career Dame Clara often returned to Bristol, whether to see family or friends or to perform, usually at the Colston Hall. Reviews were always glowing – “It is seldom that anyone experiences such a reception as Dame Clara Butt was accorded at the Colston Hall last evening,” gushed the Western Daily Press on October 17, 1922, reporting that she sang “with the fervour and spirit of a missionary”. Part of her appeal was her Continued overleaf

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The diamond and ruby brooch given by the people of Bristol to Clara Butt on her wedding day. It’s on show at the M Shed.

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numbers 1-4. G R from A recommendations K • 90%Eof work 0117 939 3258 | 07818 067191 L S C B Y E A L A T V K C V A A S H E S I A S U M E A R Y A N O A E N P B A L S N S L L E A B A O A I A K W B W L E S L WHICH WEDGES? P T C E A This is tricky – can you H I H A C tell which wedges make up No. 5? You may have U C A B K to turn the pieces. I E D R S S E A L E A C W M A

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Lake Maracaibo Sources: 1 75682542 Hope and Glory: A Life of Dame Lake(8) Nyasa Clara Butt, by Maurice Leonard, 4 792632Lake (6) Ontario 2012, pub. Victorian Secrets. North Sea 5 3454 (4) • victoriansecrets.co.uk Go Home and Do the Washing! Pacific 6 27822 (5) Three Centuries of Pioneering Red Sea Bristol Women, by Lorna Brierley 7 38446742 (8) and Helen Reid, 2000, Broadcast Sargasso Sea Books. Skaggerak Down Dame Nellie Melba, Australian Tasman Sea National Dictionary1of78746263 Biography: (8) • adb.anu.edu.au/biography/ Timor Sea 2 6626 (4) melba-dame-nellie-7551 Ullswater Great Australian Women: Nellie 3 26484552 (8) Melba: White Sea • janesoceania.com/australia_ 5 3276 (4) Yellow Sea prominent_women/index.htm

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centrepiece made by the Bristol Goldsmiths’ Alliance – and said Clara had “carried the fair name of Bristol all over the world”. The mayor added that he hoped the couple would return to Bristol to celebrate their golden wedding. Sadly, it was not to be. In the 1920s Clare was diagnosed with spinal cancer and in 1931 she injured her spine, and began performing from a wheelchair. She had already suffered tragedy: her elder son Roy died of meningitis while at school, in 1923, and the younger, Victor, committed suicide in Rhodesia, where he had a farm, in 1934. This news was kept from Clara for some time because she was so ill – in the same year she had collapsed on a tour of Australia and was stretchered home. In December 1935 the Western Daily Press noted with glee that Dame Clara was well enough to spend Christmas staying with friends in Westburyon-Trym. Her every outing – even to the cinema, when she saw the musical One Night Of Love at the Triangle, Clifton – was announced in the paper. In June, she visited the opera house at Monte Carlo in her wheelchair and received a standing ovation. But in August she fell ill again, in Germany, and was flown to Croydon airport to be met by an ambulance. Having suffered years of pain, she died at her home in Oxfordshire on January 23, 1936. Even coming in the same week as the deaths of King George V and Rudyard Kipling,

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evident that the audience would have liked many more encores,” said the Western Daily Press. The mayor of Bristol, Mr Brookhouse Richards, presented the couple with “a small gift” – a silver table

Clara’s death was still the cause of national mourning. There were tributes even from the grieving Queen Mary. In her will she left an estate of more than £39,000 (worth £15 million in purchasing powerAdriatic today). She left a fair proportion of it – £3,000 – to the RoyalAral Sea College of Music, to help Atlantic promising scholarship students Baffin Bay to fund their early career. It’s sad that so great an Baikal international star, and one with Balkash so exceptional a voice, is not Baltic remembered more. This is partly because, though Clara madeBass Sea many recordings – she had one Bay of Biscay of the first recording studios in Black her home – the technology of the Sea day doesn’t come close to doing Bosporus justice to her voice. Caribbean Clara Butt deserves remembering not only as one of Caspian Sea the first true global celebrities Chukotsk Sea but as a lifelong Bristolian, and a Coral Sea South Bristolian at that. In fact, her legacy lives on. Our loveEast of China Sea heartstring-tugging songs is Great Bear undiminished, and her signature song, Abide With Me, is nowGulf sungof Oman by more people than ever. Would Irish Sea Clara have minded that this old Kara Sea hymn is mostly heard in football grounds? Not a bit: to this Dame Lake Chad of the Empire, the highest art Lake deserved to be appreciated by theErie largest audience. Lake Huron

n TAKE A BREAK

TXT PERT

Cancer? What throat cancer? From the days when adverts were more or less free to make any claim they wanted, Clara Butt – how apt her name is here – states: “I like them for their mildness – I never have the slightest huskiness from Wix”.

Across 1. Slovakia, 4 Rwanda, 5 Fiji, 6 Aruba, 7 Ethiopia. Down 1 Suriname, 2 Oman, 3 Anguilla, 5 Faso.

Continued from page 39 patriotism: there was great applause, said the WDP after a Colston Hall concert in 1909, when she sang the lines: “So make you great our England: Child, there is much to do; You can, if you will, make her greater still; It lies, little child, with you.” (Before we all get carried away with patriotic fervour, perhaps we should remember that England’s “greatness” was then identified with its control of a worldwide empire, and only a few years before the British had invented the idea of concentration camps for prisoners in the Boer War. Sorry to puncture the mood.) Often on the bill with Clara were her husband and one or other of her musical sisters, “Miss Pauline, Miss Ethel and Miss Hazel”, as the paper respectfully referred to them. At Clara’s 25th wedding anniversary concert, also at the Colston Hall, on June 26, 1925, “the proceedings were of the most hearty character. It was

DAME CLARA BUTT, THE SOUTH BRISTOL MEGASTAR

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January 2018

Adriatic, Aral Sea, Atlantic, Baffin Bay, Baikal, Baltic, Bass Sea, Bay of Biscay, Black Sea, Bosporus, Caribbean, Caspian Sea, Chukotsk Sea, Coral Sea, East China Sea, Great Bear, Gulf of Oman, Irish Sea, Kara Sea, Lake Chad, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Maracaibo, Lake Nyasa, Lake Ontario, North Sea, Pacific, Red Sea, Sargasso Sea, Skaggerak, Tasman Sea, Timor Sea, Ullswater, White Sea, Yellow Sea

January 2018

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This month: Countries

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2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L

6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z

5 6

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DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR EVENT? This space could be yours for as little as £14. Community groups, pubs, charities, schools – get your message across in the best-read magazine in South Bristol. Call Ruth on 07590 527 664.

Classic fairy tale supplies more magic than Disney REVIEW Beauty and the Beast, Tobacco Factory Runs until January 14 HERE is a lot of beauty in the Tobacco Factory’s big Christmas show this season. Created by theatre company New International Encounter, it was first performed at Cambridge Junction last Christmas to rave reviews. This year its Bristol’s turn. The audience sit in the round, surrounding a floor strewn with autumn leaves. Enter the band, placed off to one side, who play marvellous harmonic melodies with a French rustic twang, on accordions, flutes, cello, a double bass, ukulele, percussion and more. It soon transpires that all but one of these multi-talented musicians are also beautiful, brilliant members of the cast. In the centre of the round are three panels of decking, which are cleverly moved by the cast to depict various scenes. To begin it’s the floor plan of the hovel in the forest in which Beauty (Isabella)

and her family must live following mother’s death and father’s business failure. It’s claimed that the story of Beauty and the Beast can be traced back 4,000 years. This version takes the old French fairy tale as its inspiration, so the plot may be familiar to Disneywatchers, but it’s less cartoon, more ancient magical folk tale with a drop of humanity thrown in. French-speaker Sara Lessore plays Isabella, and brings a gentle honesty and naturalness

combined with feisty fighting spirit to the title role – a great role model for little girls (and boys). Her two big sisters are spiteful meanies more concerned with their loss of wealth and gymkhanas than keeping the family together. Their shrill refrains of ‘Oh shut up, Daddy’ become the catchphrase of the show. These are lovable baddies though, and we warm to them right through to their bitter ends. The sisters are excellently played by Samantha Sutherland as Latrice and, with a nod to the traditional pantomime dame, Anastasia is played by Elliot Davis. Elliot is also musical director for the show and has done a great job in that capacity. He’s got an amazing voice and is incredibly watchable, and, I admit, I didn’t realise he wasn’t the usual gender of a sister until I read the programme afterwards. Cursed to live alone in his chateau until he finds true love’s kiss, Martin Bonger plays an angry, scared beast who becomes lanky and lovable in his goofy guileless efforts to make Beauty love him. Father Maurice (Ben Trolley) is a discreet low-key character who keeps the story flowing – and is rather good at playing the accordion whilst being pushed around in a wheel barrow. Beccy Golding

n Stand Up for the Weekend with Carl Donnelly Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street. “Carl Donnelly takes mundane stories of everyday life and turns them into selfdeprecating silliness.” Plus guests. 7.45pm, £11 advance, £14 on the door. • thecomedybox.co.uk Monday January 8 n Young Theatre Makers Tobacco Factory theatre. Weekly sessions where youngsters can explore the world of the theatre and learn new skills. Movement, clowning, storytelling, teambuilding and creativity are on the agenda. 8-10 year olds 4.305.45pm, £50 per term; 11-13 year-olds 6-7.30pm, £60 per term. Help may be available if the fee is a problem. • tobaccofactorytheatres.com Tuesday January 9 n Community Journalism Training Knowle West Media Centre, Leinster Avenue. Do you have a nose for what’s happening in your community? Would you like to write for The

Knowledge newsletter in Knowle but need support? KWMC offers free community journalism training on Tuesday afternoons 2-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Adults only: call Sue on 0117 903 0444 or email sue@ kwmc.org.uk • kwmc.org.uk/events n People of Note Community Choir Southville Community Centre, Beauley Road. Spring term free taster session, 7.309.30pm. No auditions. • peopleofnote.co.uk n Pattern Making and Sewing for Beginners Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Learn first steps to create your own clothes or craft items. A supportive environment where everyone is equal and can learn at their own pace. 10 weeks, 10am-12noon, £74 (may be reduced for those on benefits). One of several new courses starting in January at the City Farm, run by the WEA. Call 0300 303 3464 or 0117 916 6500 for details. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk

Christian Andersen is brought to life by the Travelling Light theatre company. Ducklings are supposed to be fluffy and yellow. So who is the gangly and scruffy young duck who’s just waddled into the farmyard? Join the misfit bird as he sets off on an epic adventure to find the place where he truly belongs. The show is 45 minutes long and is suitable for ages two and over. Until January 14. Tickets £12 or £9 for concessions, shows at 10.30am, 1.30pm, 4.30pm and 7pm, but not all times are on all dates so please check for details. There’s a relaxed performance for those with extra needs at 1.30pm on January 2. • tobaccofactorytheatres.com Saturday January 6 n Open Stage Saltcellar Folk Club, Totterdown Baptist Church, entrance off Cemetery Road. Open invitation to come and sing, play, dance, recite or just listen. One of the most popular events of the Saltcellar calendar. 7.30pm, £1. • saltcellarfolk.org.uk

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n WHAT’S ON

n WHAT’S ON Sunday December 31 n New Year’s Eve Bash Southbank Club, Dean Lane, Southville. With Moonshot, seven-piece ska and reggae band, plus dancing, music and fun! With bonfire, cabaret, dance class and circus acts. 9pm-2am, last entry midnight, tickets £25 or £30 with food. • southbankclub.webs.com n Let’s Go Disco Tobacco Factory, North Street. Sold out, but there may be returns. Another multi-level spectacular New Year’s Eve party: dig out your platforms and flares as the Tobacco Factory channels the spirit of 70s disco with international headliner DJs, a Studio 54-style nightclub, and Saturday Night Fever-style lit-up dance floor. Circus performers, music, street food, a retro photo booth and a tunnel of love. £38. • tobaccofactory.com/whats-on n New Year’s Eve at Zion Zion, Bishopsworth Road. With a Battle of the Bands, a live set from the Road Zombie and a disco till the early hours. Bar and food. Over 18s only. No sharp heels. Tickets £10 advance, £15 on the door. 8pm-1am. • zionbristol.co.uk/events n On the Beach The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. It’ll be just like summer at the Thunderbolt for New Year’s Eve in a collaboration with Craftisan. Surf sounds from the Dukes of Mumbai and DJs representing Knowle, Totterdown, Windmill Hill and Brislington. Firepit, a beach bar, and beachwear competition. Tickets £10 advance, £12 on the door, 8.30pm-1.30am. • thethunderbolt.net Monday January 1 n The Ugly Duckling Tobacco Factory theatre. For the younger Christmas audience, the famous story by Hans

January 2018

Natural, but feisty: Sara Lessore as Beauty, a great role model

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Wednesday January 10 n Art for Beginners Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Develop your ability to see like an artist by trying a variety of techniques, materials and approaches. The emphasis will be on experimentation rather than the finished product. 10-week course £91.50 (may be reduced for those on benefits). Other details as above for WEA. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Thursday January 11 n Silver & Copper Jewellery Making for Beginners Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Learn traditional skills for making silver and copper jewellery from metal sheet and wire, including piercing out, shaping, texturing and soldering. 10-week course £91.50 (may be reduced for those on benefits). Other details as above for WEA. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk n Reading and Writing Poetry Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Explore the structure of a poem and how it works, and develop the skills for writing poetry using different approaches. 10am-12 noon, 10 sessions £74. Other details as above for WEA. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Saturday January 13 n Bristol Seed Fair and Potato Day Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Get ready for spring by planning your planting. Seeds for vegetables, herbs, flowers, plus

Saturday January 13 and Sunday January 14 n George and the Flight of the Imaginees Zion, Bishopsworth Road. In his bedroom, George can conjure pre-historic worlds, mythical creatures and slip through black holes into other-worldly dimensions. It’s all just for fun, until George is summoned to protect the Ancient Spirits of the Imaginees. A show for the over-5s by South Bristol’s Brave Bold Drama. Also on January 14. Tickets £6.73, 2.30pm. • zionbristol.co.uk organics, garlic bulbs and many varieties of seed potatoes. Advice on growing will be available too. 10am to 1pm, free. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk n Stand Up For The Weekend with Ian Stone & Co Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street. Edgy and provocative, with an easy-going manner and self-deprecating style, Ian is also a member of the Comedy Store’s acclaimed resident stand-up team. Plus guests. 7.45pm, £11. • thecomedybox.co.uk Wednesday January 17 n Complementary Therapy

Ad libs and big effects in this laugh out loud celebration REVIEW Aladdin, Bristol Hippodrome; Until January 7 BRIGHT, shiny, colourful and loud: this show could never be described as subtle, but then, I don’t suppose a good oldfashioned pantomime should be. It mixes in some great modern bits too – fantastic animatronics include a massive King Kong gorilla, a giant genie with a (bad) Bristol accent, and an enormous cobra that looms up beyond the stage and right up to the ceiling. There’s also a clever flying carpet sequence and the piece de

Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Introductory course covering ear candling, acupressure shoulder and neck massage, reflexology, Indian head massage and more. Other details as above for WEA. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Saturday January 20 n Yoga retreat Arnos Vale cemetery, Bath Road. A day of yoga, mindfulness and detox techniques to help to unwind, feel cleansed and re-energised after the excesses of the festive period. 10am-4pm, £65. Details from devakiyoga@hotmail.co.uk • arnosvale.org.uk/events

n Soul Tunnel The Tunnels, Temple Meads. Three DJs playing the best in soul, funk, disco and rare groove including DJ PM, Andy B, one of the four founders of Soultrain Radio, and Lee Hasking. £8 in advance, 9pm. • thetunnelsbristol.co.uk n Stand Up for the Weekend with Tez Ilyas & Co Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street. “Armed with his trademark cheek and uncompromising approach, Tez Ilyas presents slick, smart and typically subversive standup.” Plus guests. 7.45pm, £11 advance, £14 on the door. • thecomedybox.co.uk Sunday January 21 n Wassail St John’s Burial Ground, Cotswold Road, Windmill Hill. Join in this ancient celebration to wake the apple orchard into life, from 4-6pm. Bring pots and spoons to bash. Drinks, apple cakes, music and merriment organised by Windmill Hill Community Orchard Association. Details by email from johnfirth@gmail.com Monday January 22 n Future of parks group Windmill Hill City Farm training room, 7pm. The parks sub-group of newly-formed community group Action Greater Bedminster holds a public meeting with parks officers and councillors. With major council budget cuts, can our parks earn enough money to survive? • greaterbedminster.org.uk Continued overleaf

show with an old friend and her two children. She said: “I thought the 3D part was quite scary for under sixes (although four-yearold Tara was fine). That poor woman in front of Merryn got a full throttle scream!” The star of this show is Wishy Washy, played by Joe Pasquale – he carries the whole thing and really ramps up the fun factor. He’s clearly ad-libbing and messing about – a lot – there are points when the other cast members are trying so hard not to laugh that they cannot sing their songs or get their lines straight. There are some great moments between him and baddie Abanazar, played by Marti Pellow – yes that Marti Pellow, formerly of 80s ballad band Wet Wet Wet – and a great tonguetwister battle between him and Widow Twanky (an excellent dame, in riotous costumes, played by

David Robbins) ending with Marti pronouncing the word ‘situation’ with rather too much shh. “Wishy Washy was definitely my favourite,” said Merryn, “he was so silly and said such funny words.” There were two other super set pieces – a wonderfully slapstick version of ‘If I were not upon the stage’ involving frying pans, boxing gloves, a feather duster and a policeman’s baton – “I liked the part where they hit Wishy Washy in the bum with a saucepan,” said Tara – and a wooden spoon dance best left to the imagination. The song and dance routines, not normally my favourite, were well put together and enjoyable too. It’s all very Punch and Judy and it won’t win an award for forward-thinking or challenging stereotypes, but this is a brash, brassy, laugh out loud celebration. Beccy Golding

When dreams take a life of their own

Brash and colourful: Aladdin resistance, when we don our 3D glasses and take a swooping flight past dinosaurs and exploding lava fields, bombarded by fireballs, spiders, rats and more – eliciting shrieks from the audience. Merryn, 6, said she loved this part. And Tara, 4 said: “I actually thought the dragon was going to eat me on the way to Egypt!” I had the joy of going to this

Adventures become real for George in this original drama

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January 2018

Who will save us from the evil Dr Knowle and his sulky teens? REVIEW A View to a Hill Totterdown Baptist Church EACHER Elaine Spencer not only wrote, but produced and directed this classic, James Bond-inspired panto – full of super-puns and groan-inducing jokes, references to local landmarks (including pointed remarks about ‘vintage shops’), obligatory ‘he’s behind you’ and ‘oh no he isn’t’ audience participation, and a strong contingent of small

children wearing animal-onesies – of course their ad-libs were the bestest and most adorable. David Lane played baddie Dr Knowle very well – he’s got form, having filled the role several times before here. His young henchmen were good at lurking about in sulky teenage fashion, joined by Sian Wilcox as femme fatale Miss Miaowplenty in luscious orange wig. The spy team made a good balance, with suave hero Jim Band backed up by Miss Honeycent, N, and droll techie P. Songs included a fun duet belted out by sparkly-dressed Queen Falala (Frankie Guy Taylor) and the Metro Mayor (Abbie Warren), and a rendition of It’s My Castle and I’ll Cry If I Want To from Dr Knowle.

I very much enjoyed the presence on stage of all three Bristol mayors – an excellent plot device, and all played by members of the same family. There were five Warrens performing in total though it’s unclear whether they were all related. I liked the three Grumpy Old Men up on the balcony, making snarky comments like the Muppets’ Statler and Waldorf. I also enjoyed the homemade snacks during the interval – what’s not to love about chocolate cornflake cakes with edible glitter? The finale was a bad joke duel followed by the whole cast and the audience singing a resounding rendition of Always Look On The Bright Side of Life. And who can argue with that? Beccy Golding

Street. Confident and cocky, Zoe Lyons is familiar from Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week and many other TV and radio appearances. Plus guests. 7.45pm, £11 advance. • thecomedybox.co.uk

Monday January 29 n Matt Woosey Band The Tunnels, Temple Meads. Switching between cool-ambient and Matt’s trademark powerful blues-tinged acoustic onslaughts,

the German-based band are on their third UK tour. Support from Mia and James of Mohawk Radio with an acoustic set. Doors open 7.30pm, £10. • thetunnelsbristol.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n THE CITY PAGE

n WHAT’S ON Continued from page 35 Friday January 26 n Networking with Freelance Mum Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster. Guest speaker Angie Parker tells how she has combined motherhood with weaving award-winning rugs and contemporary designs from her Glimmakra floor loom in Bristol. 10am-12noon, £9 members, £12 non-members. Children free. • windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk n Angie Belcher’s Comedy Depot Zion, Bishopsworth Road. Headlined by Andrew O’Neil wih compere Angie Belcher. 7pm, £6. • zionbristol.co.uk/events Saturday January 27 n The Reggae Magic The Tunnels, Temple Meads. These musicians have worked with some of the world’s greatest reggae artists such as Dennis Brown and Gregory Isaac. Tickets £10 in advance, 7.30pm. • thetunnelsbristol.co.uk n Stand Up for the Weekend with Zoe Lyons & Co Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North

January 2018

BRISTOL CITY ROUND-UP

Sponsored by CLEVERLEY BUILDERS – supporting City and the best in building

Season so far shows that the top level is drawing nearer

City have had a fantastic run, and they have done it without losing their Bristol accent, says MARTIN POWELL

HERE is an international language of football and no matter where you go in the world it is a subject that you can talk about and debate with others. As teams get nearer the top the number of different nationalities in the side increases, but it is fantastic to see that Bristol City are climbing the league table while still keeping a

MARTIN’S SHORTS n It was wonderful to see Bristol City president Marina Dolman receive her OBE for services to football from Prince William. Her late husband, Harry, introduced her to football when they married – but he only got his gong for his business dealings. Shows what can happen if you take your missus to football! n The FA Cup draw sees City take on Premier League Watford for the second time this season. Last time young Freddie Hinds scored. With not many fit strikers, it may be time for him to return from his loan at Cheltenham Town!

hint of a West Country accent! Yes, there are now players from Australia, Bosnia, Ireland, Iceland, Germany, Italy and Senegal on display at Ashton Gate but Bobby Reid and Joe Bryan, both Bristol lads, were the stand-out players against Middlesbrough and were the toast of the Sky coverage. With Lloyd Kelly on the fringes of the team and showing every sign of being able to play at the top level, we could soon see a City team with three regular local players playing at a high level. It is clear that having been hit by a lot of injuries new faces will be needed in the January transfer window but most fans want to see the local connection maintained and there is a route into the team for local youngsters even if – dare we mention it – they get to the Premier League. The win against Middlesbrough reminded me of an American I met in Chicago earlier this year, who, through the international language of football, I discovered was a Middlesbrough fan! His family originally came from there and he told me how he stayed up late at night to watch matches with his father.

Local talent: Bobby Reid is proving a stand-out player He was disappointed that they had just dropped out of the Premier League but fairly confident the side would do well in the Championship against teams like Bristol City. The results so far this season have made a lot of people readjust their views on City. They are a group of relatively unknown players but are now firmly established in the play-off zone and pressing towards the top two. The fantastic win at Sheffield United persuaded many people that something very special could be happening at Ashton Gate and top flight football may not be so far away. That January transfer window holds the key to what happens over the next few months. Bringing in players who can slot instantly into the side, fit in with the fantastic team spirit that

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PHOTO: BCFC

everybody is talking about, and make an impact right away in crucial games will not be easy. But that is the task facing Lee Johnson and chief executive Mark Ashton. The medical team have also got their work cut out in trying to get players back after serious injuries. Quite how City have managed such good results with so many injuries is remarkable – young players pressed into action have stepped up well. No trophies are handed out at Christmas in football but a season that so far has seen a magnificent cup run featuring Premier League scalps, and league form in which City have conquered some sides with recent pedigree in the Premier League, shows that the top level is getting closer.

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January 2018

southbristolvoice

n YOUR MP

KARIN SMYTH Labour MP for Bristol

Latest figures show we still need to get off bottom of the university table

T’S BEEN a very busy year what with the snap election and EU Withdrawal Bill, but it is important to find time for the issues affecting Bristol South too. I’ve written before about my relentless focus on achieving quality apprenticeships for young people and, in light of the latest figures which show that Bristol South is bottom of the table in England for the percentage of 18-year-olds going to university, I will continue to work to improve this and campaign for better post-16 skills and training. There are two big campaigns that I’ve been working on this year – one is the trailer

safety campaign following the tragic death of three-year-old Freddie Hussey in 2014 and the other is airgun safety following the shooting of 18-month-old Harry Studley last summer, which left him with life-changing injuries. I’ve been amazed at the determination of both families who, in the face of the toughest of circumstances, have ploughed their energy into campaigning to ensure no other family has to endure such pain. And as their MP, I’ve been doing what I can to help. Back in November, I spoke at the AGM of

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the National Towing and Trailer Association (NTTA) and learned more about the free safety checks being rolled out in parts of the UK. It followed a trailer safety conference I organised in Bedminster in March, which brought together the NTTA and government agencies with organisations that represent people who pull trailers, and local businesses, to highlight the issue of trailer safety. Freddie was killed when he was hit by a trailer that had not been correctly attached to the vehicle that had been towing it. Many drivers are unaware of the risks around trailers and this needs to change. After speaking in parliament about airgun safety earlier this year, Home Office minister Nick Hurd agreed to look into the issue and I’ll continue to push for an airgun safety review. People may not be aware that air rifles can cause real harm, but they need only look at what Harry’s been through to see that that is not the case. Harry thankfully survived being shot in the head with an air rifle, but has lasting injuries that he will live with for the rest of his life. Looking forward to 2018, I’ll continue campaigning for change, alongside the families, on both of these issues. In the meantime, may I take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and to thank you for re-electing me as your MP.

January 2018

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January 2018

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