South Bristol Voice November 2020 by South Bristol Voice

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November 2020 No. 59

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

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An exciting opportunity to study a degree in stage and screen acting right here in south Bristol has launched for aspiring actors. From September 2021, Tobacco Factory Theatres in North Street will be hosting a two-year BA (Hons) in Acting for Stage and Screen, thanks to a new partnership with creative industry training provider, boomsatsuma. It is part of the company's new Bristol School of Acting, aimed at empowering young people.

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Contacts

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Editorial team: Charley Rogers, Marcus Stone,

Becky Day Editorial director news@southbristolvoice.co.uk (Currently on maternity leave) Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Rich Coulter Editorial director 07775 550607 news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Independent Community News Network member

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is September 15.

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the South Bristol Voice, contact the Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code. Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 0777 555 0607.

November 2020

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ... My MP? Karin Smyth MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA By phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Call the above number for an appointment My councillor? Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Celia Phipps Labour, Bedminster By phone: 07469 413312 By email: Cllr.celia.phipps@bristol.gov.uk Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 0117 353 3160 USEFUL NUMBERS Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Waste, roads 0117 922 2100 Pests, dog wardens 0117 922 2500 Council tax 0117 922 2900

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All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission. South Bristol Media Ltd | Co. no. 11948223 | VAT no. 322 3640 38

Stephen Clarke Green, Southville By email: Cllr.stephen.clarke@ bristol.gov.uk Charlie Bolton Green, Southville By phone: 07884 736111 By email: Cllr.charlie.bolton@bristol.gov.uk Christopher Davies Lib Dem, Knowle Email: Cllr.Christopher. Davies@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07826917714 Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem deputy leader) Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 Lucy Whittle Labour, Windmill Hill Phone: 07392 108805 Email: cllr.lucy.whittle@bristol.gov.uk Jon Wellington Labour, Windmill Hill Phone: 07392 108804 Email: Cllr.Jon.Wellington@bristol.gov.uk

Housing benefit 0117 922 2300 Social services 0117 922 2900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999

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November 2020

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News

Tobacco Factory acting degree aims to empower Continued from page 1 Tobacco Factory Theatres will be hosting an innovative and empowering two-year acting degree course, after teaming up with leading creative industry training provider, boomsatsuma. The Acting for Stage and Screen BA (Hons) is part of the company's new "future-focused, conservatoire-style" drama school, Bristol School of Acting, and begins in autumn 2021. It is an intensive degree with 43 weeks of teaching per year - the same amount of contact hours as a three-year course, but students save around £5,000 in tuition fees and a year’s living costs. Students will study as a resident acting company in training at the theatre, with opportunities to collaborate and learn with professional actors, directors and visiting artists. Mike Tweddle, artistic director at Tobacco Factory Theatres, said: “We’re delighted to be embarking on this uniquely symbiotic relationship between a professional theatre and a drama school. “The partnership will enrich and empower the training experience for students - who will collaborate with renowned artists in our spaces - and embolden our theatre’s mission to provide impactful, innovative and inclusive pathways into the industry.” The Bottle Yard Studios, in

something different to create the actors of tomorrow. “Bristol has a strong cultural heritage and we hope to make it stronger. Our partners, The Bottle Yard Studios and Tobacco Factory Theatres, sit at the centre of the city’s cultural heartbeat, adding a wealth of insight and networking opportunities for our students, as we embark on this pioneering journey.” For more details about the course and how to apply, visit www.boomsatsuma.education/ schoolofacting.

Tobacco Factory will be hosting the two-year acting degree from September 2021. Image courtesy of Google Maps

Whitchurch Lane, which has played host to TV series Poldark, Broadchurch and Wolf Hall, will be hosting the drama school's other two-year Acting for Screen BA (Hons) degree. Acclaimed director Nancy Medina has been appointed as Bristol School of Acting’s co-artistic director, with course content - accredited by Bath Spa University - devised by the school's patron and Daredevil star Charlie Cox and New York's prestigious Pace University. Speaking about her new role, Nancy said: “Our industry has to change; I don’t like what I see at the moment and I believe we can drive that change at boomsatsuma. “We are creating a new kind of course that will empower young people to find their voices

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and make themselves heard. We are training actors who can shape the industry of the future. “Starting from fresh means we can be bold and steer a radical approach to inclusivity, with a pro-active anti-discrimination policy. It’s a priority for me to bring opportunity to the marginalised areas of society.” Stuart Wood, co-artistic director of Bristol School of Acting explains his motivation for creating the school: “I’ve worked in many drama schools during my 38-year career and have delivered some great training, but it’s time to challenge the orthodoxy of practitioners who have dominated actor training for decades. “It’s time to look at new approaches suited to this fastchanging industry and offer

• TOBACCO FACTORY Theatres is to receive a much-needed financial boost during the coronavirus pandemic, thanks to funding received by the Government's Culture Recovery Fund. The North Street playhouse is one of 15 "cultural gems" in Bristol to be awarded money in the second round of funding and will receive £246,440. There are 588 arts and culture organisations across England to receive a share of the £76million pot. The funding enables sociallydistanced performances to restart where safe to do so, venues to plan for reopening, jobs to be protected and opportunities to be created for freelancers. It follows the announcement that 29 organisations in Bristol were being given £6.8million in the first round of the Culture Recovery Fund.

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November 2020

Bedminster Green

Plans approved for Little Paradise

Main image: CGI of the approved 316-home development. Source: Bristol City Council. Image, left: CGI view of the approved car park from Little Paradise. Source: Bristol City Council By Amanda Cameron, LDRS reporter for South Bristol Voice Controversial plans to build a high-rise housing complex in south Bristol, despite over 200 objections and the small flats being likened to “prison cells”, have been approved. The scheme will see five

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apartment blocks up to 16-storeys high built between Malago Road and East Street in Bedminster, providing 295 rental and 21 affordable flats. The 316-home development will kickstart a massive project to regenerate the Bedminster area, which has been in the planning

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stages for years. The Bedminster Green project could eventually see as many as 2,000 new flats built across five key sites between East Street and Bedminster train station, either side of Malago Road in BS3. But developer Dandara is the first to get planning approval, after Firmstone’s proposals for St Catherine’s Place were thrown out in January and A2Dominion’s plans at the former Pring and St Hill site were rejected in September of last year. All three sets of proposals faced fierce community opposition, but unlike those of Firmstone and A2Dominion, Dandara’s plans won the recommendation of Bristol City Council officers, who concluded that “on balance” the benefits of the scheme outweighed the harms. Not all members of the

WHAT'S BEEN APPROVED • 295 new homes built on what is currently industrial buildings on the north side of Malago Road. There will be four blocks of flats, one of three, four and nine storeys, with another block of 13, 14 and 16 storeys • All homes will be one or twobed flats, and will be ‘build-torent’ • Another 21 affordable homes, also one and two-bedroom, will be built closer to East Street on the site of what is currently the Little Paradise North car park - 16 of these will be for social rent and another five for shared ownership • 71 parking spaces as well as new roads and a bus layby and cycle route planning committee were convinced, however, with councillors voting seven to four in favour of granting consent. They heard from critics who said the scheme was too densely packed to create a quality living environment and that the tower blocks would overshadow much of the surrounding area, including people’s homes and the high street. But supporters of the development said it would provide much-needed housing, boost the “struggling” high street and “unlock” development in Bedminster. The committee heard that just seven per cent of the development is affordable, but that the council could not expect Dandara to deliver any more because of the operating costs. They also heard that 38 per cent of the flats did not meet national space standards, but officers concluded it was

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November 2020

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Bedminster Green YOUR VIEWS • Resident Charlotte Cameron Beaumont - We do need to build homes, but these homes fail to meet even the most basic of standards: space, daylight and density all fall far short of recommendations. • James Young - A litany of small, box-like apartments crammed together under the shadow of neighbouring buildings are not homes for anyone. • Nick Townsend, chair of Windmill Hill and Malago Planning Group (WHaM) - There is no doubt we won the argument hands down but there was a strong feeling that we simply weren't heard. This is the most

controversial development in Bedminster for a generation. This is at a time when more and more people will be working from home! It's ironic that Bedminster was known for its dark, cramped housing in the 19th Century, and now we have come full circle. Under 7% affordability is simply a humiliation for the council. This car park will be sheer hell for the 28 elderly people in St Catherine's Court, who have been betrayed by this council. • Windmill Hill councillor Jon Wellington wrote in his column this month (Page 33) - It is particularly disappointing after four and a half years of meetings with developers, residents, officers

and cabinet members and Mayor that this decision has been made in spite of the council’s own policies. All we want for the site is a development that enhances the local environment or at the very least does not actively harm it. This plan fails on these counts. • Simon Dicken, chair of the Bedminster BID and Wilko Bedminster store manager - As an organisation representing more than 300 local businesses, we have long been in favour of these developments and we welcome these planning approvals. The increased footfall that these developments will bring will be crucial to the future success of East Street. Without the development

acceptable because of the provision of communal spaces such as a gym, courtyards and rooftop gardens. The council’s head of development Gary Collins said: “The scheme isn’t perfect. In our opinion though, on balance, it does deliver wider benefits to the Bedminster Green regeneration.” Dandara’s development manager Zoe Sharpe said the scheme would provide “fully furnished and comfortable homes, secure long-term

tenancies, shared social spaces, Covid-safe work spaces, roof terraces and 24-hour onsite staff”. Four traders on East Street and the Bedminster Business Improvement District said the housing development would bring life to the “struggling” town centre. But 13 residents and two councillors spoke out against the scheme, saying it was “oppressive” and “anti-social” and did not meet standards set to ensure liveability.

Car park gets green light

Aerial view showing the sites where the multi-storey car park (yellow box) and high-rise housing complex (red) will sit in Bedminster. Source: Bristol City Council • DEVELOPERS behind plans for seven tower blocks in south Bristol have appealed the council’s decision to refuse planning permission. A2Dominion had their proposals for the former Pring and St Hill site in Malago Road rejected in September last year. They had applied for permission to build six blocks of student accommodation up to ten storeys high as well as a 12-storey high-rise with 40 affordable flats. But a Bristol City Council planning committee said the plans showed “contempt” for the community and threw them out, saying the buildings were too big, poorly designed and would raise the risk of flooding in the area. Now A2Dominion has appealed the decision, arguing their development is well-designed, “optimises the potential of the site”, and does not increase the flood risk. It is not yet known when the appeal will take place.

and investment proposed by the Bedminster Green framework, the future of East Street would be very much in the balance. I know first-hand how tough it is for local retailers - and how worried our staff are about their jobs. We have watched proposals for St Catherine's Place refused and seen the sad decline of East Street. But now we finally have a scheme that council’s officers and councillors approved. It is not just retailers who needed this application approved. The community deserves a vibrant local high street, not one whose empty shops suggest this part of Bedminster has been long forgotten.

A multi-storey car park is set to be built in south Bristol, right next to a sheltered housing complex for older people. The controversial car park in Bedminster was approved by city councillors on September 30, right after they signed off on plans for the high-rise housing complex on the other side of the same street. Both developments were fiercely opposed by residents, with elderly people in the sheltered homes at St Catherine’s Court saying they were worried the exhaust fumes from the car park would damage their already frail health. But developer Dandara told councillors that their 316-home highrise scheme on Little Paradise would “not work” without the 90-space car park they and the council planned to build opposite. Members of a Bristol City Council planning committee said that, while they sympathised with residents, the car park came with too many benefits to ignore. The removal of three council-run car parks and other parking spaces under wider regeneration plans for Bedminster would achieve the net reduction in spaces. Clad in perforated metal, the new three-storey car park will replace an existing ground-level one on Little Paradise, and stand higher than its neighbour St Catherine’s Court just six metres away and the Victorian terrace homes on Church Lane opposite. Around half a dozen residents spoke against the proposal, expressing concerns related to noise, lighting, anti-social behaviour and “life altering” traffic pollution. Bill Jeffrey, one of the elderly residents of St Catherine’s Court, told the committee the plans for the car park were “a disgrace”. “There’s pensioners in here, and we’re all against that car park being built,” he said. “There’s people dying in here. We got two people in hospital now because they can’t breathe properly.” But East Street traders welcomed the plans, as did the cabinet member for planning, Nicola Beech. Cllr Beech said: “As part of the wider regeneration of Bedminster Green, I’ve always supported the consolidation of parking across that area in order to make sure that there is adequate parking for East Street but also an overall trend of reduction in parking within the Bedminster Green area.” It will provide 66 spaces for the general public, 18 for disabled drivers and another six with charging points for electric cars. Altogether there were 103 objections to the car park and 16 comments in support. Councillors voted eight to two in favour of the new car park.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Rich on 0777 555 0607 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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November 2020

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November 2020

Opening a world News of opportunities Let's light up Bemmy!

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Appeal to local groups Street and community group are being asked to make lanterns for the Bemmy Lanterns Light Up 20. The regular parade will not be happening doe to Covid but organisers still want to create a spectacular spectacle during the dark nights of winter. Already traders and schools have been keen to volunteer and now organisers want all community groups to play their part. Spokesperson Caroline King said: "With no possibility of a parade this year, the bemmylanterns team is working with the Bedminster Business Improvement District, local schools and retailers to light up our local high streets. "As the nights get darker, what better than some lantern-making to get ready for Christmas? "Shop windows along North Street, Cannon Street, East Street, West Street will be hung with

illuminated lanterns from Thursday 10th to Monday 14th December. "If Covid restrictions allow, there’ll also be some live music. "Nine local schools are working with BWL’s lead artist Alan May to create large and small lanterns, but the organisers also want street and community groups to get involved. If you sign up, you’ll have access to an on-line lantern-making tutorial, materials and printed instructions. It’s easy for a group to make parts of a larger lantern in each household, or a set of small lanterns. You’ll deliver your lantern/s to a specified venue and the Bemmy Lanterns volunteer team will do the rest. After the weekend, you can take back your creation. If your street or community group want to get involved, please get in touch by email (info@bwlp.org.uk) or through Facebook Facebook.com/ bemmylanterns.

Getting the best start Children have an excellent launchpad for their learning when they join the nursery class at Compass Point Primary School. The provision is led by a qualified teacher, supported by experienced and dedicated early years practitioners. While the main school is housed in a historic building, the nursery is in a purposebuilt modern and accessible space. Children can learn outdoors too, and have the opportunity to experience the exciting on-site forest school. Compass Point is a warm, welcoming and inclusive community and offers a range of formal and informal support for families from all

backgrounds. Compass Point understands the importance of family involvement and mums and dads are invited to join regular Parent Forums to share feedback, discuss ideas and shape the school's future. Compass Point is closely involved in the local community and will be creating a lantern for this year’s Bedminster Lantern Parade. The school has close links with the South Bristol Arts Trail, Upfest, Window Wonderland and acta community theatre. During the pandemic, stringent risk assessments have been carried out and these can be viewed on the Compass Point website.

Compass Point Primary

Images from previous Bemmy Lanterns parades

School focus Take a look at Ashton Sixth Ashton Sixth is a happy and inclusive sixth form, on the edge of BS3 - a place where students work hard and thrive but where they also find friendship, enrichment and support. Our small class sizes, excellent teaching and outstanding pastoral care enable students to reach their full potential, whatever their chosen pathway. Our open evening on November 12 will be going virtual this year. This is a chance to find out more about what we can offer and how to apply. Please see our website after half term for all the relevant information: www.AshtonSixth.co.uk

Nursery places available now! Give your pre-school child the best possible start - 15 funded hours a week in our teacher-led class. To view a virtual tour of our nursery and apply online, visit the Admissions page of our website.

Everyone’s welcome at our diverse community school. Compass Point Primary School, South St, BS3 3AU 0117 377 2340 www.compasspoint.bristol.sch.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Rich on 0777 555 0607 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2020

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News

RNLI stalwarts recognised for 20 years of service Five of the founding members of South Bristol RNLI branch have recently been awarded with a 20-years-long service award. The branch was founded in 1995 and these five core members have been involved since the beginning. Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up 95% of their people. The founding members of South Bristol RNLI branch have been committed to raising awareness of the charity for 25 years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; organising events, arranging fundraising activity and having a passion for saving lives at sea. Lin Hunt has been the treasurer of the branch since the beginning, and her husband Bob Hunt is a keen model maker. Bob has also supported the branch in many ways over the years, including being the main point of contact for deliveries and any RNLI stores equipment. Alan Collier is the current

Above left, Lin and Bob Hunt; left, Alan and Hilary Collier; and above, Paul Churchill vice-chairman and box secretary at the branch alongside his wife Hilary Collier who was the secretary. Unfortunately, due to ill health Hilary has stepped down from this role but is still thoroughly involved with the branch, supporting events and helping at collections.

Paul Churchill was the souvenir secretary and later became the branch chairman in 1998. Gemma Baker, RNLI community manager, said: "They are ordinary people doing extraordinary things for the charity and the RNLI is so

grateful for their commitment and dedication. "Volunteers at branches such as theirs, operating up and down the country, increases vital donations to fund the training, development and equipment required for lifeboat crews and lifeguards to continue saving lives." The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. It operates around 240 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and, in a normal year, more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved more than 142,700 lives.

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November 2020

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Covid-19 news

'Help keep our beloved music venue alive' By Charley Rogers As the effects of COVID-19 continue to ravage the country, independent venues are at the mercy of government grants and crowdfunding just to stay afloat. Even for those able to reopen, a charity leader has warned that the 10pm curfew will leave businesses having to trade on an eighth of their usual income. Totterdown’s own Thunderbolt venue is no different. Having to close its doors due to lockdown in March, and being unable to open due to social distancing rules, the Thunderbolt is fighting permanent closure. Having been turned down for an Arts Council emergency grant, and being ineligible as a sole trader for the £1.57bn Culture Recovery Fund, the Thunderbolt is turning to its loyal audience to see it through.

The venue has launched a Crowdfunder campaign as part of a national initiative by Music Venue Trust – Save our Venues – to prevent the closure of independents. Since the campaign launched in April, £2.9m has been raised around the UK, meaning only two of the 554 at-risk venues have closed permanently. David McDonald, owner of the Thunderbolt, says: “We have been a part of the community in Bristol for the past 13 years. We’re a player on the national touring circuit, and we’ve changed a lot of people’s lives through our music.” The Thunderbolt is hoping to reopen in November or December 2020, says David, but depending on restrictions may have to stay closed until April 2021. “We’re counting on the Crowdfunder to get through,

possibly until Image courtesy of Google Maps April. I don’t have any staff – I’m the bartender, the booker, and I greet the bands – but overhead costs are phenomenally expensive.” To supplement the Crowdfunder, to cover fixed costs including David has teamed mortgage, utilities and repairs, up with fellow Bristol music and any money left over will legends from the Louisiana, the be donated to the Music Fleece and the Exchange to form Venue Trust to support other a band called The Venues for a independent venues facing one-time-only fundraising song, similar difficulties. ‘Save our Venues’. At the time of writing, the David says: “We’re actually Thunderbolt has raised £7,500 of competitors, but we all really its £15,000 target. respect one another, and are all • Follow the Thunderbolt’s keen to support music in Bristol. campaign at www.crowdfunder. These guys are helping me to co.uk/the-thunderbolt-covidfundraise for the Thunderbolt, 19-appeal and stay up to date and we’re having a bit of fun at with news on Facebook @ the same time.” thunderbolt.bristol All funds raised will be used

Life changing Our entrance exams and assessments for entry in September 2021 are taking place in January Scholarships and bursaries are available Call Hollie Matthews on 0117 933 9885 Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Rich on 0777 555 0607 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2020

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News

Van-dwellers welcome Fridge noise from Tesco on the Northern Slopes is 'unbearable' - resident By Charley Rogers A group of vehicle-dwellers have been moved from an existing site at Sea Mills due to risk of flooding during the winter. People living there have instead been provided a safe space at the Northern Slopes between Bedminster and Knowle. Another existing site at Hengrove will remain open. As well as those choosing to live an alternative lifestyle, numbers of people turning to living in vans have increased in recent years as the cost of rent in Bristol has continued to climb, pricing many people out. The sites offer people access to a safe living space and access to vital facilities such as water, showers and waste facilities. Cllr Helen Godwin, cabinet member for women, children and homes said: “Our housing teams have worked proactively to make sure that some of our vehicle

dwelling community can move safely to a new site and maintain access to necessities they need. “The extra space at Hengrove will carry on offering that vital temporary support, and conversations with occupants will continue to make sure future housing options are reflective of their wants and needs.” The local community surrounding the Northern Slopes is largely welcoming to the new vehicle-dwellers. John, a local resident, said: “They are no trouble. There are much bigger issues to worry about locally.” David, an occupant at the temporary site in Sea Mills said it has been “a welcome refuge in a time of uncertainty and upheaval for everyone, particularly van dwellers.” The sites are co-managed by social enterprise Bristol Vehicles for Change and Bristol City Council housing teams.

The previous site at Sea Mills

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the problem is the refrigeration systems, not the aircon unit, which has recently been replaced. Since speaking to Tesco’s regional manager, there have been assurances that a structure will be installed to muffle the sounds of the refrigeration systems, however this has not yet materialised, despite the resident being told over two months ago that the project would take only five weeks. A Tesco spokesperson said: “We always strive to be good neighbours in the communities we serve. Following complaints from a local resident we commissioned a noise survey at our North Street Express store and, as a result, we have invested in a new high-specification airconditioning system to reduce noise levels. We are currently looking at additional measures to further reduce noise levels.” The resident awaits further updates.

A North Street resident is battling Tesco regarding disruptive noise coming from their North Street Express store. The store’s refrigeration systems make an ambient noise, he says which, particularly in the summer months, is almost unbearable. Having raised the issue with the store during the summer this year, the issue is still to be resolved. The resident, who declined to be named, told the South Bristol Voice: “I’ve had lots of meetings with the manager and staff, essentially getting fobbed off. “They eventually organised a test to see how loud the noise is, claiming it’s the same test the local authority would use. But the thing is, they did the test when the temperature had dropped, so it came back saying the noise wasn’t too loud. “But the noise is so much worse when it’s hot, so the results of that test are meaningless.” He added that the refrigeration systems currently have no noise protection, and their position in the store means they are situated “about fifteen feet from the flats”. In addition, Tesco Express on North Street. Image the resident says courtesy of Google Maps

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November 2020

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ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST

with Ade Williams

Please do not ignore the early warning signs of cancer - you could save a life

any of us reading this will be anxious about the increasing COVID-19 infection rates – the second wave. 2020 has already morphed from the usual montage of memories to static slides with images and events etched into our minds and sometimes hearts—many of them unwelcome. Face masks, PPE, toilet roll towers! It is a sobering fact that, as a result, of COVID-19, fewer people are being referred for cancer investigations, and cancer survival is likely to be badly impacted. This is a major tragedy. In the last few years, so much effort has gone into increasing screening uptake for bowel, breast and cervical cancer alongside improving all cancer diagnosis and treatment. You can, however, save a friend’s life or even yours. We know that many people are still reluctant to visit any healthcare premises. At Bedminster Pharmacy, we see this anxiety boiling over into name-calling and insults directed at us before people calm down and

Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy discusses how pharmacies can help people with a variety of health conditions, and ease pressure on the NHS apologise. We do not excuse such behaviour, but we understand the strain that is causing it. So please, now more than ever if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms: • Unexplained bleeding (rectal, vaginal, bruising); • An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on the body; • Unexplained weight loss; • Very heavy night sweats;

0300 323 0700 info@wecr.org.uk www.wecr.org.uk

• Unexplained pain or ache; • Unusual breast changes such as any change in the size, shape or feel of a breast, including any nipple or skin changes; • Coughing up blood; • Blood in urine or stool; • Mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks; • A change in bowel habits, such as constipation, looser or more frequent pooing ... KINDLY SPEAK WITH YOUR PHARMACIST OR GP. It may not be anything but for peace of mind, just speak with us. Remember it is never a bother and no query is too small. Early cancer diagnosis saves lives. We will be sharing this message during our Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Campaign this month. Yet again, our pharmacy will be going purple, and some of us (Ade!) will wear a purple wig. Sadly during COVID-19, pancreatic cancer, like all other cancers, has not stood still – decimating lives, while preying on those socio-economically and institutionally disadvantaged. Be a life-saver, encourage anyone you are concerned about to speak with us. This collective trauma ripping through everything must not stop us redeeming or preserving life and dignity. Early cancer diagnosis saves lives. Do not delay.

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November 2020

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PUZZLES for all

The FIEND 5 4

5 3 Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

Txtpert

C 6

T S

E 4

C A

E L

R H

T E

Call Katie Hillier-Swift on 0117 933 9630 The only co-educational school in Bristol to offer A levels and the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form

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Apply now for a place in our Sixth Form from September 2021

2 3

Solution G

Life changing 6

Down 1. 3478 2. 3223 3. 883787 6. 7546 7. 5347 9. 327

Across 2. 33687 4. 24335 5. 863 6. 75855 8. 6325 10. 27662487

Easier suduko Each row, column and square (4 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-4, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

Theme: Human body

Txtpert

My answer

How many koalas can you count in the picture below? Look carefully! Why not colour in the picture too?

8 1

6 2 9 8 2 4

For younger readers

7 8

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

southbristolvoice

November 2020

Schools feature - Parson Street Primary School

Working hard to adapt to unusual times

t's fair to say that the world of education, much like the rest of our lives, has been turned on its head over the last 6 months. Schools have been partially closed for long stretches and supporting children accessing lessons at home, as well as ensuring COVID-secure procedures for full re-opening in September. Now that they are back, with all children attending school, there are ongoing challenges relating to adjustments to routines and planning for what the next six months might hold. At Parson Street Primary School, along with all of our other schools in South Bristol, teachers have thoroughly enjoyed seeing classes full of children again. While some adaptations have been made to practical arrangements around school such as seating arrangements, staggered playtimes and limiting sharing of resources - it has been great to get back to learning in classes. The headteacher, Ms Louise Hopcroft, pictured above, said: "The children have adapted so well to their new routines and we

are delighted to have them back in school. I couldn't be prouder of the way that they are seeking to follow our school values every day. As well as planning learning for time in school, teachers are working hard to make sure there is learning in place in case children have to self-isolate at home for some time. "Our aim is to support families as best we can if they need to be at home for some time, and teachers are getting lessons ready for children who cannot be at school for any reason. By doing this we hope that everyone will continue to make excellent progress over this year." If you are interested in your child attending Parson Street Primary School, we are offering tours to prospective parents for Reception and Nursery, as well as other year groups, after school hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you are interested in attending and finding out more about the culture and provision at Parson Street, please contact the office on 0117 9030226 for more information or to book a visit.

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

November 2020

Friends of Knowle Library update

Friends of Knowle Library is delighted that Knowle Library re-opened on October 12, enabling people to return loans, browse and borrow and use pre-booked computers (If you want to use a computer, you must phone the library first to book your session 0117 903 8585). The Friends group was able

southbristolvoice to organise a lively one-off event at Redcatch Community Garden during the summer with help from the Library Service and the Library Innovation Fund. We would like to promote engagement with other members of the community – particularly those who are hard to reach, maybe experiencing social isolation, perhaps fearful of going out – given the challenging times we are living through, those who

would like to use the library but are unable to access it, perhaps another event targeting older people – one suggestion is afternoon tea and cake and books at the community garden? We also like the idea of a local “book swap” – when people could give away unwanted books and others could adopt them – at least it would be a way of engaging people in literature! - or again working with RCG or another

open space (maybe vacant shop premises) to have a socially distanced book-swap event there or even a city-wide event. It would get people thinking about books, reading, literature, and sharing resources. If you have ideas to contribute or would like to explore ways to bring the library closer to people - please get in touch. Email: friendsofknowlelibrary@gmail.com or Like our Facebook page.

BS3 Community - the south Bristol charity and community development organisation

Providing food for those who need it most

edminster FOOD Club opened its doors earlier this year - The Food On Our Doorstep (FOOD) programme aims to provide regular access to a sustainable supply of food to people at risk of food insecurity. The Club also aims to reduce the amount of food being sent to landfill by utilising and distributing surplus food. With support from Family Action, Bedminster FOOD Club provides families and individuals with good-quality food at a low cost, while also reducing food waste. Now in its 3rd month, Bedminster FOOD Club is going from strength to strength.

Ruth, our community development manager, says: ‘The club is accessible to anyone that is economically vulnerable and needs a helping hand - fresh food & cupboard essentials are available to collect every week - you can become a member for £1/year and then opt in/out each week as your circumstances change’ The club costs just £1 a year for a family to become a member. Once you have joined, you can purchase a bag of delicious food every week worth approximately £15 for just £3.50! To become a member, you must live or work within 15

Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family ﬁrm with 25 years experience

minutes of West Street, Bedminster. This is the only membership requirement, everyone is welcome. All food is donated by Fareshare, an organisation passionate about fighting hunger and tackling food waste. Food parcel collection is from the United Reform Church Hall on West Street. To find out more about joining our FOOD Club, email food@bs3community.org. uk If you would like to know what other services or support are available in BS3, please email Ruth.Green@bs3community.org.uk

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We're in Business - enterprise thriving in South Bristol despite Covid The Hideout Bristol Mental Health & Fitness Studio

Your perfect holiday. Tailored to you, planned by us.

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The Hideout Bristol is a brand new Mental Health & Fitness Studio in St Judes, BS5.

events throughout the year to raise money for different mental health charities.

We aim to promote the importance of Mental & Physical Health by enabling and supporting self growth in a safe and tranquil environment.

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We host a variety of classes & workshops for all levels and abilities, plus a number of

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MARVIN REES, Mayor of Bristol

Clean air begins at home

ell before the pandemic, I spoke about our moral, ecological and legal duty to clean up Bristol’s air. Last month, we set out the next steps in our plan to deliver cleaner air for the city and to do so in a fair and just way which brings all parts of the city with us. We want you to give us your views at www.bristol.gov.uk/caz2020 before the consultation closes on Sunday 22 November. In recent months the council has taken steps to lock in the benefits that lockdown brought to our environment and air quality. Bringing forward major transport improvements – such as the closure of Bristol Bridge and Baldwin Street to through traffic, and the pedestrianisation of the Old City – have allowed us to improve traffic flow, reroute polluting vehicles from areas with low air quality, and give priority to public transport, walking and cycling. Before lockdown, we were also well on our way to making public transport in our city even more environmentally sustainable. We have worked closely with Firstbus to introduce biogas-powered buses, which cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85%. We have also secured funding for businesses in Bristol to loan free electric vehicles, in

Valid until 30th October 2020

addition to launching the region’s new electric vehicle charging network (including a rapid charging station at Eastville Park). All this has allowed us to make big improvements in Bristol’s air quality. We are covering all bases, however, which is why we’d like to hear your views on our revised proposals for a Clean Air Zone. These include a charging zone for polluting commercial vehicles, but also charging private cars which don’t meet emissions standards set by the government. We have long warned that charging non-compliant private cars would have a disproportionate effect on our poorest households who are more likely to own older

vehicles which emit more pollution. That is why we want to press ahead with our more radical plans of redirecting traffic forward to bring Bristol’s air quality to compliant levels without a charge for private vehicles. However, I want to stress that the retention of the benefits we saw during lockdown and the delivery of cleaner air in Bristol won’t come through the stroke of a pen in Whitehall, or solely from the efforts of the City Council. We all need to minimise our contribution to air pollution in the city. Changing our transport habits are a big part of that, but we can – and must – do more. Unlike the Government, the World Health Organisation particularly highlights how reducing particulate matter (PM) is crucial in order to cutting premature death through pollution. For us in Bristol that means obeying the rules of the smoke control area that covers the whole city, not burning wood on an open fire, and recycling waste rather than burning it on a bonfire. Cleaning up the air in Bristol will require the whole city – all of us – to come together with a common purpose: to adjust the way we live to protect each other from pollution, particulates and toxic fumes.

Valid until 30th October 2020

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November 2020

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Local History

In pictures: Bristol's tobacco industry

This month we share with you photos courtesy of Bedminster resident John Powell, who was born and raised in Bristol, and worked for the Wills Tobacco company for 64 years. John rescued many of these historical images when the Wills factories were being torn down. The Tobacco Factory in North Street is the last standing factory of the cigarette company

1. Boiler house – An inside shot of the boiler house at the Bedminster factory, located in the same spot as the current Asda superstore. The Bedminster factory was closed in 1972 2. Bedminster factory – a reproduction of what the Bedminster Wills factory looked like, c.1919 3. Strike a pose – ladies from the Wills factory restaurant, sitting outside #4 factory, c.1908. The marks on the wall to the right are from men striking matches as they came out of the factory – they weren’t allowed to smoke inside 4. Ladies packing cigarettes – c.1919. John recalls the packing ladies being able to select just the right number of cigarettes for

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each box without even looking down! 5. The Tobacco Factory c.1928 – Franklyn cigarettes were produced in Bristol’s own Tobacco Factory, which these days is a café/bar and arts space 6. Street scene – children playing outside the Bedminster factory, c.1919 7. Woodbine Red Label/ Woodbine Christmas – Woodbines were popular with troops during the world wars, and were known for being strong and unfiltered. Special-edition designs were popular as gifts for Christmas Check out next month’s issue for the second instalment of John’s historical photos!

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Local History

3 5

4 6

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News

Dog ban means we can enjoy sports on our field Children at Compass Point Primary School are celebrating an official ban of dogs on their playing field. The move by Bristol City Council means people can no longer exercise their pets on the South Street playing field at any time. However, they still have access to the designated Bark Park. The Public Space Protection Order prohibits dog owners from using the playing field in Bedminster both during and outside school hours. People who flout the order face fines of up to £100. It means classes at Compass Point have free access to the field for play and for outdoor learning for the first time in two and a half years. The playing field belongs to Gatehouse Green Learning Trust, which runs the school, but there has been a longstanding agreement that it is shared with

the community outside school hours. The park used to have signs saying that dogs were banned but these were not legally enforceable. Once this was highlighted in March 2018, so many dog owners began using the field that the school had to stop pupils going there because of the risks from dog fouling.

The council consulted neighbours before bringing in the ban and found 80 per cent of respondents in favour. Headteacher Linda Brown said the school was grateful for the support of the community and was delighted the ban was now in place. "We are so pleased that our children can now have games lessons on the field and teachers

can take classes out there whenever they choose, without having to wait for it to be checked for dog mess," she said. "It is especially important now, during the pandemic, when we cannot do PE and games indoors because of Covid-19 restrictions. "Thank you to the local community who overwhelmingly supported our application"

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KARIN SMYTH MP for Bristol South

Job figures don't show true picture

ata released by the Office of National Statistics last month (October) shows the UK unemployment rate is the highest it has been in three years and now stands at 4.5%, with redundancies the highest they have been since 2009 (coinciding with the last recession). Locally, figures are higher than the national average. As important as these statistics are, they do not even give us the full picture. They are based on a combination of the number of people claiming unemployment benefits and a Labour Force survey. It’s helpful to understand the direction of travel but, in reality, there are going to be a lot more families affected by this than the figures reveal. The concept of a Monday to Friday 9-5 job is just not how a lot of people make a living nowadays. I’ve heard from lots of people across the constituency who rely on more than one job. Some combine part-time work with freelance. Others combine zero hours contracts with project-based work. Many juggle caring duties with flexible work. Or work with education. People get by thanks to a combination of income streams. Anyone who has lost their job but lives with a partner who is in work, in a home

they own, will not show up as a Universal Credit claimant as they are not entitled to this support. Young people in education who lose their part-time work will not appear in the unemployment statistics. Self-employed people who’ve seen their income drop dramatically – to the point they don’t have enough to live off – they are not factored into the ‘unemployment’ picture. Those with several jobs, who lose one or two but not

all, they slip through the gaps here too. I've been closely following the work of the new Excluded All-Party Parliamentary Group which explores this very topic and focuses on those 3 million people nationwide excluded from the government’s COVID-19 support and what more can be done. Why is it important? We’re likely to see an even bigger rise in the next set of unemployment figures as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has now ended and new restrictions are in place, forcing more businesses to take drastic steps to balance the books. But this will be the tip of the iceberg. In order to address this, we need to fully understand the extent of the problem and come up with a clear plan. The Chancellor’s chaotic habit of trying to fix problems of his own making at the last possible minute risks unemployment spiralling to levels we haven’t seen in decades. I’m really keen to hear from you and how COVID-19 crisis has affected your family. You can reach me via the contact details below. Twitter: @karinsmyth Facebook: KarinSmythMP Website: www.karinsmyth.com

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November 2020

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November 2020

y pre-covid morning routine was: get up and slip into my swimming costume. Flip flop up the road to the Jubilee pool. Hang about in the twilight, peering through the door as a yawning staff member shuffles over to open up. Then a ten minute star jumping and bench dipping session whilst chatting to my familiars. These consisted of Mrs Fit and the Cackle Twins (not related but best friends). At first I found the twins terrifying, they were loud and glary. I got to know them and they became part of my Jubilee experience, often making me cry with laughter. When one shot off the runner and was injured, I pined for her. Nicely warmed up and still giggling, I would follow Mrs Fit into the showers and then skulk to the pool, slipping unnoticed into the shallow end. I say ‘slipping unnoticed’ because you can, it’s what I love most

southbristolvoice

THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE

In witch I join the fight about the Jubilee, the of the Jubilee, Mrs THE WICKED lighting is dim and Fit was kicking WITCH OF the distance between away in a fast front KNOWLE the changing room crawl as I followed and the edge of the in a sedate pool is about five breaststroke, quick, tippy toe steps. checking out the For us body conscious other swimmers. chubbies, this It was usually the point is particularly same old crowd. important. The speedos in I made the journey to the fast lane, lean, mean and Hengrove leisure centre when it quick with perfect tumble turns first opened. Oh my. That place and nose clips. In the slow lane is huge, clinical, with lighting two women swam side by side brighter than the sun. There is chattering, oblivious to the queue no hiding place, even with tinted forming behind them. With me goggles. I felt self-conscious in the medium lane, backstroke and intimidated. I had driven girl was cruising, taking out as it’s a bit too far to walk. On anyone who got in her way, she my departure I had managed to never stops. And the evermisplace my stamped parking watchful lifeguard sips her coffee. ticket and spent five minutes I skipped along to Jubilee being honked at as I frantically pool every morning, Monday to emptied my swimming kit over Friday. Without fail. It set me the floor. The sodden ticket was up for the day. I was getting retrieved, and I screeched out toned, fit and I looked forward to of there, but my nerves were going. It was more than a pool rattled. I vowed never to go back. ... it was a warm, welcoming and Meanwhile, back in the safety safe place.

Now it is shut and if Marvin gets his way it will be turned into a high rise block of flats like Jubilee’s sister pool in Speedwell. I will continue to fight for its resurrection along with the band of badly spelt banner wielding supporters (it got people talking so I think could have been genius) SAVE ARE POOL. And save it quick because this witch is getting fat. l This piece is dedicated to Mr Darling who died on 28 September 2020 aged 95. Mr Darling was also part of my routine. After my swim I would tootle to his house and take him to art club. He would always notice my dripping hair, shake his head and laugh. He laughed a lot, which made me laugh. We painted masterpieces together. At an exhibition we submitted a collaborative piece, I priced it up at £6,000.00, we had agreed £60.00. We laughed again. It now hangs on my wall. He was a gentleman, my partner in crime and I miss him.

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November 2020

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Save Jubilee Pool

Eight decades of Jubilee Pool As the future of Knowle’s beloved Jubilee Pool hangs in the balance, we hear about its history of serving Bristol’s community By Meg Spanton, Friends of Jubilee Pool and Charley Rogers In the 1930s, Bristol was flourishing. Urban architects had a vision of a world where every family could live in semidetached homes with gardens big enough to feed the family, indoor bathrooms and modern kitchens. At the forefront of this movement was CFW Dening, who designed landmarks like churches, hospitals and zoos, and even housing estates with treelined avenues, crescent streets and leisure facilities within easy reach – modern homes for modern families. Shirehampton, Sea Mills, Horfield and Knowle West were all designed on this model. In the mid-1930s, Dening also designed Jubilee Pool. The city’s 14th public bath, the Jubilee was one step closer to the goal of every Bristolian being within a mile of a swimming pool. To this day the building is virtually unchanged, remaining a Bristol landmark.

Images from Jubilee Pool's opening leaflet in 1937. Above, the pool's original interior. Right, the pool's original changing facilities The pool’s functional design does not detract from the neo-classical ‘moderne’ art-deco style, favoured by Dening, inspired by his travels in Italy, and for which the pool has become known throughout the city.

Bristol was rightly proud of its new addition, and in May 1937, Jubilee Pool opened with a day of celebrations, including a diving show and an exhibition of ‘scientific swimming’. The UK government wanted a ‘fitter

Britain’, and for every child to learn to swim and know the principles of lifesaving, especially in Bristol, a city intersected by waterways. Jubilee Road was the perfect spot for the new pool, serving the 40,000-strong

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Save Jubilee Pool population of Knowle and Brislington. During the years of war and rationing that followed, the Jubilee was home to thousands of children learning to swim and having fun, and thousands of adults staying healthy and keeping the community spirit going. By the time the 60s arrived, teenagers and courting couples used the pool as a place to meet up with friends and go on dates, and later Jubilee moved with the times and a removable floor was installed, allowing the baths to also be used as a roller disco. Jubilee was far ahead of its time in terms of renewable energy, too. In 1977, an early form of solar panel was added to the roof. Throughout the next three

"Locals recall the pool's four diving boards and amazing galas and shows, followed by vendingmachine soup and rainbow drops as treats." decades, the pool was home to endless school lessons, spouting tales of terrifying teachers throwing children in the deep end, and fearsome receptionists guarding locker keys like dragon’s treasure. Locals also recall the pool’s four diving

boards and amazing galas and shows, followed by vendingmachine soup and rainbow drops as treats. More recently, the pool has become known as the warmest in Bristol, perfect for babies, and is recommended by the NHS Central Bristol Chronic Pain Clinic. It also remains a key part of the local community, home to Saturday fun sessions, birthday parties with giant inflatables, early morning lane swims, and the amazing sunrises and sunsets visible through the beautiful curved windows. Accessible swimming, coachloads of schoolkids learning to swim, Aquafit classes with friends, moonlight swims, and even naked swimming with the naturist club all add to the Jubilee’s rich history. Jubilee Pool still has the same spirit it was built with all those years ago, when visionaries designed cities and the people in charge dreamed of a better life for citizens. Do you want to help save Jubilee Pool from closure? Learn more about the campaign from Friends of Jubilee Pool on Facebook @savejubilee or at e-voice.org.uk/savejubileepool/

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How the Support Hub can help you The Support Hub was set up by a collaboration of local organisations to help people over 50 living in Bristol cope with the impact of COVID-19. We can offer practical, social and emotional support. This includes things like benefits advice and home maintenance as well as the opportunity to join in online and telephone activities and free 30 minute counselling sessions if you find you are struggling.

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Bristol support hub for older people A collaboration of local charities has come together to form a Support Hub to help people over 50 cope with the impact of the coronavirus in Bristol. The Support Hub provides a range of different services including practical, social and emotional support, such as shopping and weekly social phone calls, as well as virtual activities that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Due to social distancing measures, we are conscious there is a risk that some people will feel lonely and socially isolated during the pandemic. We feel it is important to think about social opportunities to keep you connected whilst at home and as a group of charities, we are offering virtual activities like shared reading, art sessions, Tai-Chi classes and much more, which you can get involved in either online or over the phone. The pandemic has been an

working hours, we will always respond as soon as possible. You are not alone. You can get in touch by ringing 0117 929 7537, or by emailing admin@ageukbristol. org.uk You can also find out more about the Support Hub and Age UK Bristol’s other services by visiting www.ageukbristol. org.uk Pictured, local workers Deb and Kath on a food run

unsettling time, filled with stress and anxiety for many people. We would urge anyone over 50 who has a need of the services provided by the Support Hub to get in touch. Most of the services provided by the Support Hub are

either free or low cost. The helpline for the Support Hub operates from 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday. Sometimes the helpline will be busier than usual, but if messages are left on the phone or by email out of

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'Grant will ensure our survival' - cemetery CEO Arnos Vale Cemetery has been handed a lifeline after securing government funding to support it through the coronavirus pandemic. The cherished local heritage site is one of 445 organisations to receive a cut of £103million,

as part of the Culture Recovery Fund. The funding will help heritage sites restart vital reconstruction work and maintenance, keep venues open and support those working in the sector. Arnos Vale CEO Ellie Collier

Spielman Centre and café at Arnos Vale Cemetery. Photo by Buffy Jones. Right, bird's eye view of Arnos Vale Cemetery

said: “We are hugely relieved and overjoyed to receive this lifeline to help keep our magical place safe. “We generate 70 per cent of our income through our events, shop sales and room hire so the financial impact of Covid19 has been huge. This funding will help to ensure our survival. “Arnos Vale is a place of love and remembrance. It is a special place, where communities come together. "We work so that it can be enjoyed now and saved for future generations, as a place of heritage, tranquillity, stories, wellbeing and wildlife. We are a 45-acre green space in the heart of Bristol, founded over 180 years ago. Over 300,000 people are buried or remembered here, we tell their stories. “I would like to thank the team and all those that have donated and supported us so far,

your support is essential during these incredibly difficult times.” • ARNOS VALE CEMETERY is raising a Green Flag Award for the second time - in a year when millions of people have seen the value of having great quality green spaces on their doorstep. The award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for their management across the UK and around the world. Arnos Vale Cemetery is one of more than 2,000 sites across the country to collect the award for 2020. Ms Collier said: “This award is a real acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication put in by both staff and volunteers, ensure Arnos Vale is a place for everyone to enjoy, explore and love.”

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lassy Claws Nails & Training moved back to their original studio in Raynes Road BS3 post lockdown and are operating with social distancing, PPE, protective desk screens and strict sanitisation procedures in place to remain Covid Secure in line with government guidelines. All products used are suitable for vegans, not tested on animals and meet EU regulations. This business is owned by Michelle who works on clients alongside her team. Michelle originally trained 35 years ago and she has updated her qualifications many times over the years as new nail systems have been developed and nail science and product chemistry continually evolve.

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Michelle worked as PhD Master Educator South West England for Nail Harmony UK, the brand behind the creation of the worlds first 100% Gel Polish in a bottle, Gelish, for the last 6 years but is taking off her teaching hat now for a year to concentrate on salon clients while we navigate through the pandemic of 2020. Having worked as Nail Stylist to The X-Factor Judges, Contestants and VIP’s for series 2017, Series 2018, and for Celebrity X-Factor series 2019 with the privilege of styling the nails of Megan McKenna From TOWIE, Jenny Ryan aka The Vixen from The Chase and the girl band V5 to name but a few, Michelle says “my proudest moments still come from seeing a client's face when I’ve helped them grow beautiful, healthy, natural nails or created something bespoke for them using various art techniques. The girls and I love the different seasons and the art we can create, our favourite being Christmas as it’s when clients feel most adventurous!”. The only problem you will have here is choosing a colour, as they have almost 600 so you need to narrow it down to a colour of the rainbow and then the girls will use their expertise to help you find the perfect one. Classy Claws Nails & Training operates by appointment only and can be booked by downloading the Booksy app, or through the Booksy website or by messaging their Facebook page.

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Views from your local councillors Charlie Bolton Green Southville This column is primarily aimed at American voters - and is being written in mid-October - just after Donald Trump's apparently miraculous recovery from coronavirus (OK, there may not be that many of you reading the SBV, but it's worth a try - and feel free to pass it on!). World politics today very much reminds me of a song by a popular singing combo from the 1980s called the Fun Boy Three. They wrote a song called ‘The lunatics have taken over the asylum’. While the wording is no longer very appropriate, my God don’t the sentiments just resonate. From my point of view, it started here when politicians looking like comedians from a second rate 1950s film - called Nigel and Boris - got the UK to vote for a catastrophically stupid decision - by a relatively small

margin growth, and - for some reason - we are stuck with it forever. I’m afraid we are going to have to live with this particular piece of nonsense for years to come. Looking from afar, you seem to have a president who is completely without shame, without morals, and who is completely capable of denying basic facts one day, and saying the opposite the day after. If he didn’t have the potential to be so dangerous, he’d be funny. As it is, he is slightly terrifying. We live in horrible times. But American voters have the opportunity to do something for us all. They can give us hope. Please vote him out, for all our sakes. PS if you know the result by the time you read this, please let me know! Fingers crossed.

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Celia Phipps Labour Bedminster Not another consultation, I hear you say. This is the last opportunity to give your views on the options for Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in the city. The survey closes on 22nd Nov and can be found on the Bristol City Council website and is the last stage to ensure Bristol can meet its legal obligations to reduce air pollution as quickly as possible. The first option is a small Clean Air Zone D in the city centre which charges noncompliant private vehicles as well as buses and heavy goods vehicles, but not emergency vehicles. This zone creeps over the river into BS3. The second option is a larger CAZ C which charges only larger vehicles but not private vehicles. This reaches into BS3 and could mean that traffic levels are reduced. In either option, traffic flow would

change and this would need to be monitored very closely to ensure the air pollution levels did not increase exponentially in other areas. Complete the survey online at gov.uk/caz2020, or if you would like a paper copy or the information in an alternative format please email transport. engagment@bristol.gov.uk or call 07775115909. You can also write to CAZ Transport Engagement Team, PO Box 3399, 100 Temple Street, BS1 9NE. Of course, using your car less is better for all of us and any suggestions to further improve walking and cycling in our area can be made at gov.uk/ covidtransport. The debates about banning pavement parking are already starting. Small changes made by each of us can make a big difference. Bristol still does better than any other city in recycling, but the level is still only about 50 per cent of the waste we produce, so we can do much better. Stay safe and look out for those around you.

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Views from your local councillors Gary Hopkins Lib Dem Knowle After a month's delay with no progress after Labour councillors voted down the motion calling for a reopening of Jubilee Pool, we have now had two cross party meetings of local councillors. It was clear after we started exposing what had really gone on and although the Labour cabinet member had signed off the plan to close, communication with her colleagues had not informed them. There had been a torrent of misinformation from the council administration. Under questioning, officers confirmed that Jubilee was not losing significantly even under COVID and that reopening quickly would be as cheap as holding it closed. We knew this a long time ago and this whole sorry saga could have been avoided if our offer of discussions early on had not been rejected. Officers wanted to stress that

because of COVID they were having to put more money into Hengrove and their solution was to take away the choice of Jubilee in the hope that swimmers would transfer and help the budget at Hengrove. They confirmed our assertion that the anticompetition clause on the Hengrove PFI deal was a red herring. This is no way to approach an important local public facility and it is obvious that once again the decision making process has failed miserably. I expect that by the time you read this article the committee will have supported my proposal to recommend to the mayor that we reopen Jubilee rapidly and look at the longer term options over time. We can only hope that the mayor listens to the sound advice and regret that he got it wrong. Thank you to all those that have supported the joint campaign. Without it we would have already lost our pool. This is the third time that we have fought off Labour party proposals to close Jubilee Pool and we do not want a fourth.

Jon Wellington Labour Windmill Hill Bedminster Green Despite the best efforts of local residents, campaigners and local councillors, the first tower block was given planning permission this month on the Little Paradise site on Bedminster Green. The council’s planning committee endorsed the officer’s recommendation that it should be approved despite significant concerns about space, light, height, density, affordability and other issues, so it will go ahead. This is now likely to open the floodgates for the developers on the other four plots to push ahead with their own plans for buildings of a similar size and density, and appeals have been lodged by the developers seeking to overturn previously rejected plans. It is particularly disappointing after four and a half years of meetings with developers,

residents, officers and cabinet members and the mayor that this decision has been made in spite of the council’s own policies. All we want for the site is a development that enhances the local environment or at the very least does not actively harm it. This plan fails on these counts. I will continue to oppose all future inappropriate plans for the site but sadly it now looks less and less likely that local people’s voices will be heard. Jubilee Pool As has been discussed elsewhere and in Lucy’s column last month, a cross party group with councillors from the local wards has been set up to consider the short term and longer term future of Jubilee Pool. By the time you read this we will have had at least two meetings and hopefully we will be clearer on what can be done to save this vital facility. This remains my highest priority and local Labour councillors are committed to reopening the pool and finding a longer term solution to secure its future use.

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November 2020

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Advertising feature

Professional childcare with a family feel Anne’s House Childcare brings its signature warm atmosphere to new larger location

hirteen years ago, Anne Templeman started childminding for local families, welcoming children into her home and taking care of them while parents and carers were at work.

personal preferences, Anne and her team of six assistants work with families to ensure children feel secure and happy while in their care.

The business flourished, and just last month, Anne moved to a new location. Only three doors away from her home on Bedminster Road, the new centre – Anne’s House Childcare – has capacity for up to 30 children, aged from newborn to six years old.

“We like to make every day here fun – smiles and laughter are top of the list.”

“We are very different from a nursery,” says Anne. “We have a really homely feel, and we work closely with parents to make sure the children are happy and settled.” From dietary requirements to

“We have a secure back garden and encourage outdoor play,” says Anne.

The new centre also includes a sensory room and a library, where children are encouraged to develop an interest in books. In addition, Anne’s House Childcare offers the Early Years EYFS programme, which Anne says in her experience has helped little ones transition into school. Anne’s childcare centre is Ofstedregistered, and the team has a range

of experience, including paediatric first aid and safeguarding. “We have worked together as a team for over five years,” says Anne, “so although we’re not technically family, we have a real family feel here.” The centre is open from 7.15am– 5.30pm Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays and a two-week Christmas closure. Fees are charged at £6 per hour, and there is a two-day minimum for attendance. The centre also accepts childcare vouchers and council-supported free childcare allowance. To enquire about availability, call Anne on 07535 796144

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Upgrade in the pipeline for local skatepark Victoria Park's skatepark will receive a muchneeded facelift after £60,000 has been be secured in council funding. The Victoria Park Action Group (VPAG), along with a team of local residents and skating experts, are now working with the council to develop plans. Extra funding will also need to be raised to boost what can be achieved. The funding has been granted to the park through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - money gained from developers to spend on local infastructure.

The aim is to make the skatepark more user friendly - this could involve resurfacing, moving existing equipment, and installing new equipment. In a recent newsletter from VPAG announcing the news, chair Andrew Brown said: "I'm told it's all about flow, and the current layout doesn't have that." Plans can be followed as they develop on Facebook at www.facebook.com/

Victoriaparkskateparkbristol), and you can have your say about the plans online at www. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/JV5J99P. • VOLUNTEERS are needed to help improve Victoria Park for people and wildlife. Those volunteering their time will gain gardening skills and learn about the plants that make the park so special. If interested, contact parkvolunteers@ bristol.gov.uk - booking is essential to ensure covid safety. No previous experience necessary and all tools provided.

Put your surplus apples to good use - and get juice or cider in return A West Country cider maker is calling on south Bristol residents to donate their surplus apples. Apples can be donated at Riverside Garden Centre and will be put to good use by the Cotswold Fruit Company - a small family-owned cider-maker in Gloucestershire. The fruits will be turned into either 100 per cent natural pressed apple juice or, if enough apples are donated, they will be used to create a special Bristol blend of cider.

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In return, anyone donating apples will get a choice of free apple juice or cider as a thank you, as well as having the satisfaction of knowing that their spare fruit has been put to good use. How it works: • Collect sacks and address cards from the Riverside Garden Centre • Pick apples when they are ripe • Leave the filled sacks at the garden centre

together with the address cards on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays • Your free juice will be left at the Riverside once the apples have been milled and pressed, within a week or two; the cider will be ready by Spring • Please only use good quality fruit - the odd bruise or scab is OK but no rotten or partly rotten fruit! The minimal apple donation required is 8 kgs and fruit is collected weekly.

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Bonkers for conkers!

Despite the Covid-19 restrictions, the traditional playground game of conkers is back on the curriculum at Cleve House in Knowle. More than 50 pupils from the Junior School have been preparing to battle against each other in their seventh knockout conkers tournament. The battle was due to begin at 2.30pm on Tuesday, October 20. A couple of trophies awaited the ‘conkering heros’ from each of the Keystages. “Conker matches were a regular event in the playground during my childhood at this time of year,” said Headmaster Craig Wardle. “Most of our pupils do enjoy collecting conkers but few of them have ever played the game, so we wanted to give them the opportunity. "Last year Torwood House took our trophy so at least this year we

will be able to keep it one way or another. “We have completed a comprehensive risk assessment and have decided that we can still continue with our annual tournament. Sadly this year we will not be having any parents watching and supporting and all children will challenge each other within their own Keystage bubbles. "We didn’t want to go down the route of making the children wear protective goggles as we believe that it’s excessive and that if you wrap them up in cotton wool, they never appreciate risk. “Contestants play on a voluntary basis and are well supervised. The conker tournament was a bit of fun and a great way to finish school before the half-term holiday began. It has always been a great success and we are planning to hold another one next year.”

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BS3 Wildlife News and My Wild South Bristol by Ben Barker, BS3 Wildlife Group We are daily reminded that polar bears, gorillas and elephants may soon be extinct, but it’s happening in England. September’s ‘One City Ecology Emergency Strategy’ points out that many insect, bird and mammal species are endangered in Bristol too. The decline of insects is especially dangerous to humans as they form such a key role in the food chain, including our own. The Strategy, published jointly

by around 35 agencies including Avon Wildlife Trust, The Natural History Consortium and Bristol City Council, identifies the loss of habitat to buildings, roads and large single crop fields and the excessive use of insecticides as major causes of what’s known as ‘the Sixth Great Extinction’. The fifth was the one that did for the dinosaurs. Agricultural pollution and habitat destruction increasingly means that it may be safer for creatures to live in cities

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0117 9564912 0117 **NO VAT** **NO VAT** **O.A.P. DISCOUNTS** DISCOUNTS** **O.A.P.

WINDOW SERVICES

PLUMBING

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc… OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

0117

956 4475

SnugSash.co.uk Sash window specialist • Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting We can fit double glazing to your sash windows! www.snugsash.co.uk 07736 229727 SnugSash

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