southbristolvoice
Bristol Blitz survivor turns 100
resident Joyce Weaver, a
Joyce Weaver was fifteen years old at the outbreak of World War II. As a volunteer Fire Watcher, she would spend her nights looking out for enemy planes dropping incendiary
bombs on Bristol. Armed with a bucket of water and a pump, it was Joyce’s job to extinguish the incendiary bombs before they could set fire to local homes and factories. Joyce said: “I remember coming along Coronation Road on the bus early in the morning and the whole of the Bristol Docks was on fire. Continued on page 5 >
Southville
survivor of the Bristol Blitz, celebrates her 100th birthday
Keep calm and ‘toddle along’ – Bristol Blitz survivor Jean celebrates her 100th birthday
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Contacts
Ruth Drury Publisher 07590 527664
sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Cathy Parnham Editor news@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is noon on 10 July 2024.
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My councillor?
Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR.
Ellie Freeman Green, Bedminster By email: cllr.ellie.freeman@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 07386 698680
Emily Clarke Labour, Bedminster. By email: cllr.emily. clarke@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 0738 669 8678
Tony Dyer Green, Southville By phone: 07584182862 By email: Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk
Christine Townsend Green, Southville By phone: 0758 418 3843 By email:
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
Follow
Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. gov.uk
Cam Hayward Knowle Community Party By email: cam.hayward@ bristolgreenparty.org.uk
Toby Wells Knowle Community Party. By email: toby.wells@bristolgreenparty.org.uk
Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk
Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill By phone: 07584186535 By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk
n PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Welcome
Welcome to your July issue!
And this month again, we have politics galore, plenty of fun events and lots of local talent shining through.
We’d love to hear from you – we are creating a local sports page from next month onwards, so if you are part of a local club, please make contact with us so we can share your highs and lows with the rest of South Bristol.
Have a great rest of June lovely readers and we’ll see you in July.
Don’t forget to keep sending in those letters
and, as always, we love to see what you have been up to in South Bristol, so please get sharing.
Ruth
PS: Remember to take your photo ID to the polling station on 4 July!
Fairfield School’s Year 6 Presents a Captivating Performance of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”
Atriumphant success of Fairfield School’s performance of William Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest’ at The Tobacco Factory.
This special production featured an edited screenplay that retained Shakespeare’s original language, but had been skilfully condensed by Year 6 teacher Miss Plumb into an engaging hour-long production.
To ensure the performance was enjoyable for all ages, the classic dialogue was fused with lively music and entertaining songs expertly directed by the school’s talented music teacher, Miss Clara Jeffery.
The dedicated cast of thirteen Year 6 pupils delivered a professional and heartfelt performance, demonstrating their commitment and hard work since they began learning their lines several weeks ago.
Performing in the Spielman Theatre at The Tobacco Factory provided the young thespians with valuable experience of working on a professional stage and was a highlight for many of the performers.
The show was a remarkable success, with a sell-out evening performance that was exceptionally well received by the audience of all ages.
Headteacher Mrs Barton commented, “This
has been a fantastic opportunity for our Year 6 children and has provided a fun and interesting introduction to Shakespeare. The whole experience helps to foster confidence in public speaking, teamwork and an appreciation for classic literature.”
Fairfield School wishes to extend its appreciation to the teachers, parents, and community members who contributed to make the performance such a great success.
Fairfield School, Backwell, Bristol BS48 3PD 01275 462743 – www.fairfield.school
Continued from page 1 >
Another time I was walking to work after a bomb had been dropped on the White Horse Pub in the night and there was a tram on top of the roof.”
Joyce was born at her parent’s home on Beauley Road, Southville before moving to Bishopsworth when she was four years old. She describes her childhood as “very happy” and that “we always seemed to have everything we wanted”.
Joyce attended Cheddar Grove School and then Marksbury Road School in Bedminster Down, although she admits that she “wasn’t a very good scholar” and struggled with Geometry, in particular. (She once got 4 out of 40 in a Geometry exam, much to the consternation of her father who was a qualified engineer!)
After leaving school, Joyce worked for Robinsons of Bristol, a printing and bag manufacturing company, where she earned 10 Shillings for working 48 hours a week. She said: “That worked out at
tuppence an hour, but I enjoyed it.
“My Aunt was forewoman there and any dirty jobs she’d always give them to me. They put in new accounting machines when the firm moved due to bomb damage and they asked if I’d like to learn, so that’s what I did.”
Joyce met her husband Bert during the war while she was babysitting for his sister. He was a merchant seaman and took part in the Normandy Landings, taking supplies across the English Channel for the Allied invasion.
After the war, Joyce and Bert bought a house in Southville and raised their three daughters. Joyce lived there for 65 years before moving into St Monica Trust’s Monica Wills House Retirement Village in 2014. Joyce celebrated her birthday on 2 June with a surprise party thrown by her family, fellow residents and colleagues at her retirement home.
Asked about the secret of her
long life, Joyce said: “I never indulged in anything and just sort of toddled along. I think it’s all in the genes and keeping active.
“My Grandfather was 90 when he got killed riding his bike home after playing whist.
“Bert died in 1980 and I’ve been fending for myself ever since. I only have a carer come in twice a week and our girls are ever so good. Whoever comes in puts the vacuum round before they go home. It’s a wonder I’ve got any tuft left on the carpet!”
Village manager Claire Chambers said: “… it’s amazing to think that she can see her old home, where she went to school and where she worked from the balcony of her apartment...
“Joyce has been a muchloved part of our community for the last 10 years and it was wonderful to be able to throw a surprise party in her honour and celebrate her long life with her many friends and St Monica Trust colleagues here at Monica Wills House.”
And the winners are...
CONGRATULATIONS to the three lucky winners of our recent competition in issue 101! Each won a copy of The Afterthoughts, crafted by Bristol’s very own Stephen Reynolds!
Said one winner: “Thank you so much, what a lovely surprise. I received the book and it looks really good, so I will enjoy reading it... you made my day really special.”
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Meet your local candidates
ON THURSDAY 4 July, voters across 543 constituencies across England will head to the polling stations.
We asked the six Bristol South candidates to detail how they would represent our readers, should they win a seat at the General Election.
Please note, the expressions and views of the candidates here are their own and do not necessarily represent those of South Bristol Voice.
Key information
• Remember, you need photo ID to vote.
• You must vote at your assigned polling station which will be printed on your polling card.
• Voting is between 07:00-22:00.
Andrew Brown (Liberal Democrats)
Councillor
– Hengrove and Whitchurch Park ward;
Deputy Leader – Bristol Lib Dem Council Group; Chair – Economy and Skills Committee; Member –Finance Sub Committee, Corporate Parenting Panel
“I am standing because I believe that both the Conservatives and Labour have let down Bristol South – and because I believe that this part of the city needs someone to fight for a fair deal for them: better access to health services, support for the cost of living crisis, and investment in our communities.
“As a local Councillor for Hengrove and Whitchurch Park ward, I have a track record of helping residents and working to make life better in the area. I have had many conversations with people and understand their concerns and frustrations – time and again people have told me how they feel South Bristol has been neglected by the Conservative government, and the Labour administration that used to run the city.
“This election gives people an opportunity to choose another way of doing things. If elected, I would work to achieve local improvements: an additional health practice in South Bristol; improved public transport to make it easier for people to get around; and a fairer, greener city.
“As your MP, I would hold regular surgeries and other events to allow me to continue to connect with voters ensuring that I understood their concerns and priorities. This would allow me to ensure that my local priorities were in tune with those of local people.
“For national matters, I would seek to find Liberal answers to the challenges facing our communities – ones rooted in ensuring that ‘noone should be enslaved by poverty, ignorance, or conformity’.”
Karin Smyth (Labour Party)
“When voters first put their trust in me in 2015, it was an honour.
“I promised to be a straight-talking, hardworking representative for local people, who would fight for Bristol South in Parliament.
“Nine years later, this remains my driving purpose.
“I want to build a fairer society, where everyone has equal opportunity to achieve their ambitions.
“In an area with some of the highest deprivation in the country, I know people share these values, having trusted Labour politicians to represent them for decades.
“I’ve worked to improve post-16 options, with an annual jobs and apprenticeships fair and the creation of the Advanced Construction Skills Centre.
“I’ve helped thousands of constituents, supporting people through the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.
“In Parliament, I’ve been a strong voice on local issues: from campaigning to improve the safety of trailers and implement safeguards around air weapons, to standing up to this Government over its terrible record on everything from housing to the NHS.
“But to truly build a better future for Bristol South, we need a change in government.
“We need a Labour government that will drive economic growth, invest in green energy, create more homes, and rebuild the NHS.
“As a member of Labour’s health team, it’s my mission to renew the health service ¬- harnessing the experience of my 30-year career in the NHS.
“Repairing broken Britain won’t be easy, but I’m ready for the challenge. Together with a Labour government, we can put Bristol South at the heart of national renewal.”
advertise, contact
Liz Brennan (Conservative Party) Councillor, South
Gloucestershire Council
“My name is Liz Brennan and I am the Conservative Party candidate for Bristol South.
“For the past three years I have served as a councillor on South Gloucestershire Council, tirelessly campaigning for improved public services right across the Bristol region.
“One of my proudest achievements to-date is leading a national campaign for life-saving Cystic Fibrosis drugs where we successfully secured access to essential treatments that significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life for 10,000 individuals with the condition.
“I have also supported local parents in their bid to urge the government to take action to tackle knife crime. Just last month I wrote to the Secretary of State to ask that bleed kit training be made mandatory for staff and pupils in secondary schools in Bristol South. Such training, if delivered, will help to keep our children safe and will ensure that future generations possess the knowledge and skills to respond to emergencies effectively, ultimately saving lives.
“As a local councillor, I have campaigned for better public transport across the region and for better access to healthcare facilities.
“I am a mum of three and I live with my husband of almost 15 years.
“If elected, I will be a strong voice in Parliament for the people of Bristol South by making investing in services and infrastructure, championing family hubs and youth services and making our communities safer my top priorities.”
Jai Breitnauer (Green Party) Charity manager
“When I moved to South Bristol in 2003 it immediately felt like home. I’m passionate about this unique and diverse area, and I have a long history of getting stuck in locally to make things better. I am carer to two children with complex needs and regular campaigner and advocate for SEND education. I’m also the trustee of a youth disability charity based in Bristol, and a strong voice for disability rights and equity.
“Three key areas of concern I’m hearing on the doorstep are:
• GP Services: We have a handful of GPs serving more than 40,000 households, plus we’ve become an NHS dentist desert. Only the Greens have a fully funded and workable solution to the NHS crisis.
• Knife crime: As a mother to teenagers, I share the worries of parents about the knife crime epidemic. I will work with grass roots communities to tackle this problem so we can all feel safe.
• Housing and development: The Green Party are committed to providing safe, affordable, climate friendly homes for all without destroying precious green space.
“The climate crisis underpins everything the Green Party do. We are already seeing the effect of climate change in Bristol South with flooding, hail, rain bombs and high winds – but there’s still time to change our children’s future if we act quickly – I will be pushing the next government to commit to positive climate action.
“A Green MP in Bristol South would shake the next government up and remind them who they work for.”
Neil Norton (Social Democratic Party )
“I should be the MP for Bristol South, as I am an ordinary working-class man who has seen the effects of cuts, money wasted on vanity projects, and lived real life. I am someone to whom people can relate to and who will listen to their concerns.
“My priorities for Bristol South are zero tolerance to ALL crime, by funding more officers and letting policing go back to basics. The drug issue is getting out of hand, and more needs to be done to punish the dealers, and more funding into addiction. Opening drug ‘safe houses’ will create more issues and addicts would be prey for dealers outside these places. More money spent on health services, dentists and schools.
“No more student housing, and build more social and realistic affordable homes for people. Homeless families shouldn’t have to live in crowded and over-priced temporary accommodation and we need suitable permanent homes.
“I would also improve the bus and rail service by putting back into public control. First Bus and GWR are overcharging for fifth-rate services that either don’t turn up and/or have an incoherent timetable.
“I’d also look at scrapping the so-called North Somerset tax applied on rail journeys when crossing the border into North Somerset.
“I would represent the people of Bristol South by actively listening to their concerns and getting involved with local societies. I may not be a ‘miracle-worker’, but the electorate comes first. Being empathic and a ‘can-doer’ are the qualities I have to be the perfect MP for the area.”
NB: There was no response from Richard Visick, the Reform UK candidate, despite multiple attempts to contact the party.
Almost 29K residents in Bristol region lack necessary ID to vote in General Election
NEARLY 29,000 residents in the Bristol region are registered to vote but lack the necessary ID, denying them a voice in the General Election.
Exclusive data from Survation and Royal Holloway, University of London, estimates that this affects four per cent of all those on the electoral roll in the West of England.
Voter ID is now a requirement at polling stations – and everyone without it will be turned away when the nation decides the next government on Thursday, July 4.
In some areas, the proportion of residents who do not have appropriate identification is staggering.
In the ward of Weston-superMare South, an estimated 23 per cent of registered voters –almost one in four – don’t have ID, affecting more than 1,400 people.
The rate is similarly high in St George Troopers Hill, in the Bristol East MP constituency, at just under 23 per cent – about 1,050 people.
In Hartcliffe & Withywood, in Bristol South, an estimated 14 per cent of voters – 1,704 residents – are without appropriate ID.
The figures for Yate North ward in the Thornbury and Yate constituency are 12 per cent –1,111 voters – and in Hengrove & Whitchurch Park in Bristol South it’s 10 per cent, about 1,344 people.
Nationally across England and Wales almost two million
registered voters have no qualifying ID.
Chris Hanretty, professor of politics at Royal Holloway, University of London, said: “The vast majority of registered voters have photo ID, but a small proportion don’t, and that small proportion gets bigger in some areas.
“If just a few of these voters without ID turn up to vote, we can expect lots of stories about people being disenfranchised.”
New laws requiring voter ID were introduced last year, with the local elections in England on May 4, 2023, being the first in
Quick guide to running
EVER thought about running but not quite managed to venture out? Well, summer is a great time to try with lovely sunny early mornings beckoning you out on to the streets…
There are many benefits to running – from social to physical and mental wellbeing. It releases serotonin (the happy hormone), which has a positive effect on your mental health. There are endless possibilities of running routes around Bristol, from a good flat circuit around the harbourside or Greville Smyth Park to a more challenging run through Ashton Court.
If you want some support or the opportunity to meet new people, there are lots of groups to choose from, and for all abilities.
Britain to require voters to show identification before being issued with a ballot paper.
Voters can use passports, driving licences, Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) cards, blue badges and some concessionary travel cards.
View the full list here: https:// bit.ly/45phsEx
People without an existing acceptable form of voter ID can apply online or by post for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC).
The deadline to apply for a VAC in order to vote in next month’s General Election is imminent –
5pm on Wednesday, June 26. If you go to the polling station without the correct ID, you’ll be turned away – as Boris Johnson was in May after forgetting to bring identification.
Meanwhile, thousands of people who tried to vote at a polling station in May 2023 were not able to because of the voter ID requirement, and many nonvoters said they did not take part in the local elections because of the new rules.
By Annie Gouk, David Dubas-Fisher and Adam Postans, Local democracy reporters
Why not check out the Southville Running Club, https://bit. ly/3VLaxCa, which promises ‘a friendly club of mixed abilities and ages 18+ who just want to run with others in a social, motivating environment’? It meets at 6.00pm every Tuesday & Thursday at the Southbank Club, Dean Lane and costs 50p per run.
Or try a park run – run or walk 5K with like-minded individuals, family and friends and even your dog (www.parkrun.org.uk). Plus, for children, there is a Windmill Hill Junior Park Run every Sunday at 9am at Victoria Park, Nutgrove Avenue. https://bit. ly/45BIDfl
If you are visually impaired and need a guide, there is help available at https://bit.ly/4eqHrzw
If you need some help to get going, take a look at https://www. nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/get-running-with-couch-to-5k/
Prime Minister’s Questions on May 15, 2024. Image: Parliamentlive.Tv
Your Labour candidate for...
Bristol South
Karin Smyth
Straight talking, hard working, fighting for Bristol South
My Pledges to you:
Get the NHS back on its feet
I want to use my experience working in the NHS to cut waiting lists and get you and your family seen faster.
Break down barriers to opportunity
It’s my mission to improve opportunities for young people, with more secure jobs through better training and apprenticeships.
Fight for local people
It has been an honour to support families in Bristol South, and now I want to put your voice at the heart of a Labour government.
Share Bristol Bedminster store opens its doors
ON 12 June, Share Bristol welcomed the people of Bedminster, Southville and beyond to the new Library of Things on East Street, located in the St Catherine’s Place shopping precinct.
Joe Sims of BBC Bristol was invited to cut the ribbon – but jokingly insisted he would only do so if he could cut it with giant shears. He managed to chop through it to huge cheers from the assembled onlookers.
Around 70 people turned out to inspect the new facility, which aims to bring much needed life to the heart of East Street.
The volunteer team behind Share Bristol hopes that the Bedminster Library of Things will become the first place people think of going when they need something for around the house, garden or for a trip, but also that it becomes a true hub for the community – bringing people to the area for a variety of activities centred around sharing things, resources and knowledge.
Share Bristol Bedminster already has around a couple of hundred Things available, and more are
being added every week. Share Bristol is more than a tool library – offering items such as carpet
cleaners, gazebos and pressure washers, a car roof box, and even a tiny allen key.
If you would like to support the charity, Share Bristol is asking for donations for items that people might want to borrow for a week or two, rather than have permanently in their homes.
The Library of Things is also looking for more volunteers – at the moment Bedminster is only open on Wednesday lunchtimes and Saturday mornings, while the team scales up.
You can join Share Bristol by visiting www.sharebristol.org. uk, paying an annual membership fee and then you can borrow from the Bedminster or Kingswood Library of Things for free, as often as you want.
Anna Perry, a Trustee of Share Bristol, said: “This is a win-winwin – its affordable, it brings life to the high street and it’s great for the environment.”
BBC Bristol’s Joe Sims cuts the ribbon with shears!
Local resident raising funds for Alzheimer’s Research
Former arts student to put on exhibition at Create to highlight challenges of living with dementia
BEDMINSTER resident Dominic Head, an alumnus of University of the Arts London (2012), will be putting together an exhibition this July, from 22nd to 27th, to address the challenges for people living with dementia.
Said Dominic, “I’ll be putting together an exhibition of artworks by a range of brilliant artists at the Create Centre on the west end of Spike Island, highlighting the challenges of living with dementia and the impact it has on those who love and care for those afflicted.”
“The show is in aid of Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK), a charity working hard to find a cure for the disease, and that I’ve passionately fundraised for over many years since my grandmother lived with Alzheimer’s from 1989 to 2007, and my aunt died of it in 2022.”
Dominic has raised money before for ARUK through running
n COMPETITION
hands’ by Jenni Dutton, who will be at the exhibition. Jenni uses thread to create portraits of her mum living with dementia
and hosting quizzes, but this will be the first time he has used his background in the arts to both fundraise and increase awareness about dementia.
Dominic added: “I’m really keen that the show be something that people who live with or know
someone with dementia can come to see. Alongside the show, there will also be a series of public talks by researchers and those living with dementia, as well as workshops with local dementia support groups, with all money raised supporting the work of
UB40 ticket giveaway
Enter now for your chance to win a pair of UB40 tickets, worth £85!
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell play Bristol Amphitheatre & Waterfront Square on Friday 2 August 2024 in a special open-air performance!
The legendary reggae performers will bring their unmistakable sound to Bristol’s Amphitheatre for what promises to be a fantastic evening of live music.
The band topped the UK singles chart on three occasions and sold 70 million records as they took their smooth yet rootsy musical blend to all corners of the globe.
Between 1983 and 1998, the group produced three Labour Of Love albums,
bringing hits such as Eric Donaldson’s ‘Cherry Oh Baby’, Lord Creator’s Kingston Town and Johnny Osbourne’s Come Back Darling to a new, global audience.
They also topped the charts on both sides of the Atlantic with their reggae cover of Neil Diamond’s Red Red Wine.
For more information about the event, go to: https://www.summertimelive.co.uk/ ub40bristol
TO ENTER
For your chance to win, simply email news@ southbristolvoice.co.uk, putting the words ‘UB40 competition’ as your subject line, and tell us the answer to the following question.
ARUK to help us find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.”
For more information, go to createbristol.org. Entry free: Talks £8 per ticket. The exhibition runs Monday 22 – Saturday 27 July, Spike Island.
Q. Which Neil Diamond reggae cover did UB40 top the charts with on both sides of the Atlantic?
The closing date is midnight Sunday 30 June 2024. PS! Don’t forget to tell us your name, address and contact details!
(Above) A still image from ‘A letter for my father’ (2023), a film by Debbie Castro, who will also be at the exhibition. (Right) ‘Mum resting her head on her
Avon & Somerset Police launch
‘Chance to Change’ scheme
New Chance to Change scheme promises better outcomes for young adults
AVON and Somerset Police’s new out of court resolution scheme known as Chance to Change is aimed at improving outcomes for people in early adulthood.
Out of court resolutions resolve crime without going to court.
Current options include community resolutions, the Drug Education Programme and conditional cautions. All of these resolutions require a suspect to admit their offence to be eligible.
However, evidence now suggests individuals from communities where trust in the police and the wider criminal justice system (CJS) is low often go no comment in interview, therefore preventing them from accessing the interventions available and are more likely to be prosecuted to court resulting in a criminal conviction.
A Chance to Change
The new scheme for 18–24-year-olds will remove the barrier of having to admit guilt, which prevented people from certain backgrounds being given this option. Evidence shows this approach
is also particularly effective at reducing reoffending for young adults.
Assistant chief constable Will White said: “We’ll be running the new deferred prosecution model, called Chance to Change, in partnership with three organisations who have demonstrated their expertise and knowledge in supporting people to make better choices and improve their prospects.
“Rise Mutual, Nelson Trust and Step Together Volunteering will provide supportive/rehabilitative pathways for those eligible and will tailor their approach to individuals’ needs, increasing the likelihood of engagement and success.
“Chance to Change recognises that people in early adulthood are still developing and sometimes make bad choices. Rather than prosecuting people at the start of their lives and them entering a cycle of offending, going in and out of the criminal justice system, the scheme does exactly what it says – it offers people a chance to change, helping more young people to reach their potential.
“This is better for those individuals, who can avoid a criminal record and go on to lead productive lives. It’s better for victims who often don’t want a young person prosecuted, rather that they learn
from their mistakes. It also reduces work in the wider criminal justice system, which saves taxpayer money in the long run.”
In London, there was a 58% reduction in reoffending rates for all 18–22-year-olds offered a deferred prosecution, compared to those cautioned or charged at the outset, regardless of their background and circumstances. Importantly, whilst reducing the reoffending rates for everyone taking part, it also removed the disproportionality for non-white people at the point of charging.
How will it work?
The out of court resolutions offered will depend on the age of the suspect, who will be categorised in three groups as children (10 – 17 years old), young adults (18-24 years old) and adults (25 years old and over). The new Chance to Change deferred prosecution scheme will only be an option for young adults arrested on suspicion of certain offences including common assault, criminal damage of less than £5000, and public order offences.
If the individual does not complete the programme or adhere to the conditions, they can be prosecuted for the original offence.
Local man cleans windows for free
LOCAL window cleaner Andy has been cleaning in South Bristol for over six months. He decided to offer his services for free for one street that was most commented on because, he said, “Everyone here has been so lovely, and I wanted to give back!”
The lucky residents of Ashton Drive won! Said Andy: “A great day! We cleaned about 20 dirty homes [for] both people who asked in advance and ones we just knocked on doors for… I have been wanting to do [this] for a while and I [was] really excited about it.”
Part of Andy’s motivation is that he believes having clean frames and panes “makes a house look incredible and lets the owners/ renters feel
real pride in their home... Not everyone can afford to have them done regularly, but it really needs to be done at least once or twice a year”.
Andy’s dream would be to build a group of volunteers to help “to litter pick, wash street signs and maybe tidy up front yards, as well as ideally other home service companies who might give a day to do gardening/ drive clearing etc”.
Said Andy: “If we could clean 12 streets a year, we could start making our area look incredible, inspire people to look after their homes and maybe start to build some community spirit.”
Not only did Andy clean the windows for the lucky residents of Ashton Drive, but the road sign as well!
n NEWS FROM BS3 COMMUNITY – THE CHARITY THAT RUNS THE
SOUTHVILLE CENTRE AND THE CHESSEL CENTRE
Tuesday Club
Our new family-friendly community club is open every Tuesday 9.30am–4pm for anyone who lives within the Bedminster area. This is based at our new venue: Philip Street Chapel –Clarke Street Entrance, Bedminster, BS3 4EA.
We will offer:
• Affordable food cupboard essentials for sale for local residents experiencing difficulties.
• Kids’ corner for under-5s with toys
• Digital skills support available weekly
• Free refreshments
Our space can also offer support through our communities team, including social prescribing, and a chance to find out about local events.
For more information, contact us at info@ bs3community.org.uk or 0117 923 1039
Film & Ramen Evening
Join us in our Milford Hall on Friday 19 July
for a film screening of Perfect Days (2023) and enjoy a tasty ramen dish prepared by our café. The ramen will be suitable for vegans and is £10. This will be served at 6.30pm. The film screening is free and will start at 7.30pm. You can arrive anytime from 6pm, where we will be selling drinks (alcoholic &
non-alcoholic) in our café.
For more information, visit the website at https://bs3community.org.uk, contact info@bs3community.org.uk or call 0117 923 1039
Festive Market – callout for stall holders!
On Saturday 30 November, we will be having a Festive Market at our Southville Centre! We will have stalls, children’s activities, crafts, a choir, plus tasty treats in the café. We are now calling out for stall holders, so if you sell gifts or food treats, do glitter tattoos, or paint faces, get in touch for more information on 0117 923 1039 or email: marketing@bs3community.org.uk
BS3 Art Club
Our popular summer art club is coming back! Join us for some art & crafty fun. The dates are 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th August. Pop them in your diary; more info coming soon!
Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson
southbristolvoice
n ADVERTORIAL
Summer days out
We The Curious: Bristol’s most surprising science experience reopens
WHERE can you turn invisible, climb inside a giant bubble, and fly through space, all on the same afternoon? Bristol’s playful and surprising science experience, We The Curious, reopens on 2 July following two years of closure due to a fire.
With more than 200 things to do all under one roof, two floors brimming full of interactive exhibits and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium, the science centre on Bristol’s harbourside is great for families of all ages, school groups or grown-ups, and those with a curious mind (hint: that’s everyone!). It’s also out-and-out, unadulterated fun!
Visitors can make animations, solve giant puzzles, discover how our brains work together with
our bodies, as well as explore time, space, and happiness in the intriguing Project What If exhibition.
This summer take part in experiments and creative activities at We The Curious. Solve some (seemingly) impossible problems: can you make milk without a cow and grow plants without water?
Can you make a giant chain reaction machine with a team of people you’ve just met?
And check out some brand-new Planetarium shows, including ‘Spin the Spaceship’ (2D) – perfect for children under six and their grown-ups.
Suitable for all ages, it’s a full day out filled with play, surprises and marvelling at the world around us.
Visit wethecurious.org for pricing and to book tickets.
n NEWS
Bristol Bike Night raises £4k for charity
JUNE’S Bristol Bike Night at Fowlers Motorcycles attracted hundreds of riders and raised a whopping £3,950 for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
The charity was chosen by Jamie Cox, who works in the company’s Internet Sales Department and is personally affected by the condition.
Harry’s Café at Fowlers donated 100% of the proceeds received in exchange for food and drinks sold at the event, totalling £1,300. A further £650 came from members of the public and Fowlers is matching the money raised, bringing the grand total to just under £4,000.
The next Bike Night will be held on Friday 5th July 5.30pm-8.30pm. Free entry. No booking required. Fowlers Motorcycles, 2-12 Bath Road, Bristol BS4 3DR (10-minute walk from Temple Meads Station) www.fowlers.co.uk
South Bristol is the place to be this summer!
ALTHOUGH summer weather might still be on its way, June has already proven to be an exciting month in South Bristol. The community has been buzzing with a variety of events that have brought people together and showcased the vibrant spirit of the area. From lively festivals and outdoor markets to musical celebrations and sports events, there’s been no shortage of activities to enjoy.
Here’s a photo roundup of some of the highlights from this bustling month in South Bristol. With Kings of Leon, the Bs3 Festival and the fantastic international Balloon Fiesta still to come, South Bristol is the place to be this summer!
Image © Jo Redman
Image © South Bristol Media
Image © Martin Wall of Well Chuffed Media
Image © Martin Wall of Well Chuffed Media
Image © South Bristol Media
Image © Nicky Corbett
Image © Martin Wall of Well Chuffed Media
Image © Martin Wall of Well Chuffed Media
Image © Nicky Corbett
Image © Jo Redman
Businesses rally to help beat holiday hunger in South Bristol
A BRISTOL-based Community Interest Company is calling on businesses to join their mission to support families in need in Bristol, unlocking 6,000 more places for holiday support.
Since setting up in 2016, Community of Purpose has worked with some of Bristol’s best-known businesses to support thousands of young people from across the city region.
Their Break Free programme offers the chance for children from disadvantaged backgrounds to receive hot meals outside of term-time, keep active and nurture friendships, strengthening their social skills and self-esteem.
They take part in sporting activities and visit cultural places, thereby relieving the financial and time pressures which many of their parents and carers face. Almost threequarters of those who take part in Break Free receive free school meals.
Now the social enterprise is looking to scale up its operation, by increasing the number of business supporters from 70 to more than 100. The team estimates that it can support more than 6,000 young people through its activities if 30 more businesses came on board.
Co-founder and CEO Amy Kington said: “We have seen just how much of an impact we are already making, with 70 fantastic businesses on board. From Lancer Scott to Arthur David and Hobbs House Bakery, we welcome businesses big, small, young and wellestablished. They just need to be passionate about supporting young people in Bristol.
“Our approach is now well established, and we are witnessing an astonishing impact. We are confident that we can now reach those young people and families who can benefit hugely from our support.
“If 30 businesses each offers £5,000, that’s an incredible
6,000 more children who can come along to Break Free.
That’s two hot meals per day, plus structured and supportive activities which all contribute to happier, healthier young people with a stronger sense of self and value. This is invaluable not just to the individuals themselves, but to their families, too.
“The school holidays make up 25% of the year at 13 weeks cumulatively, so the impact that these programmes have is massive. We look forward to making even more of a difference with businesses across the city.”
Supporting Bristol’s communities
Community of Purpose is an award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise that was founded in 2016 by South Bristol siblings Amy and Joe Kington. Passionate about transforming the lives and futures of young people in Bristol and beyond, they are seeking new business donors to help fund the next level of their work.
Working in communities across Bristol, last year Community of Purpose’s five programmes supported:
● 1,637 young people; ● 209 families ● 84 schools.
Many Bristolian families need such support. Twentyseven per cent of Bristolian pupils are entitled to free schools meals. This sits above the national average of 23.8%. With the summer holidays fast approaching, the need to support young people and families through the break is a present and growing concern.
Emma Ford’s children have attended Break Free over the last couple of years. She is incredibly grateful for the holiday support.
She said: “Knowing my children are happy doing different activities, meeting new people and getting a hot meal takes away some of the stress and worry that can make the holidays difficult. Not only has Break Free helped my children in so many ways, I am forever grateful for the support and care they all show to me, too.”
Businesses who support Community of Purpose get clear and tangible results from their input. Each business gets access to their own dedicated
portal, tracking feedback from attendees of Break Free in real time. The data anonymously monitors attendee experience across a range of factors, including friends made, confidence built and foods tried. This contributes to the Net Promoter Score for Break Free.
Morian Cooke, managing director at Lancer Scott, said: “We know that our support with Community of Purpose is making a real difference to the lives of young people across Bristol. Thanks to our portal access, we can quantify this impact in an instant.
“For example, we know that over 80% of attendees are making new friends and building confidence – this is crucial to set these young people up for a bright, positive future.
“We want to thank Amy and the team for continuing to make this happen, in a way which communicates to us where and how our support is helping.”
For more information and to discuss supporting Community of Purpose and its projects, please get in touch with the team at hello@ communityofpurpose.com
(Above) Young people attending a trip during Break Free to SS Great Britain. (Above Right) Break Free attendees climbing at Bloc in Saint Werburgh’s, Bristol, during a half term trip, 2024.
ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams
Child or adult suffering with earache? Bedminster Pharmacy can help…
EARACHE and ear pain can affect one or both ears. While they may not be a sign of anything serious, the pain and discomfort can be unbearable, causing anxiety and restlessness.
The good news is you can now come into Bedminster Pharmacy for free NHS-funded care for moderate to severe earache symptoms not eased by pain relief. This care includes examination, management advice, and appropriate treatment.
The good news is that we can offer this NHS care across most age groups, starting from one-year-old children. A young child with earache may be unable to communicate what is wrong. Signs to look out for include:
• rubbing or pulling their ear
• not reacting to some sounds
• a temperature of 38C or above
• being irritable or restless
• off their food
• losing their balance
Most earaches in children are caused by an ear infection, which clears up within three to five days without treatment. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used for adults and children in pain or with a high temperature.
Antibiotics aren’t usually needed unless symptoms persist or are particularly severe, but we will offer an examination that will help determine the best course of action. Access to this free NHS examination and care offers peace of mind and speedy treatment, with antibiotics only used when appropriate.
We use an otoscope to examine your ears for signs of infection, take a medical history, and consider other symptoms. If we find any signs of a more serious condition, such as a perforated eardrum, a foreign object in the ear or a sudden, severe hearing loss, we will refer you to your GP or other sources of help for immediate attention.
We can provide ear drops or antibiotics as part of your NHS treatment if you need them.
Remember, it’s crucial to avoid improper ear-
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
SINUSITIS
(adults and children aged 12 years & above)
INFECTED
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
SORE THROAT
(adults and children aged 5 years & above)
SHINGLES
(adults aged 18 years & above)
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
(women, aged 16 to 64 years)
BACTERIAL CONJUNCTIVITIS
(children aged 30 days to 2 years)
IMPETIGO
(adults and children aged 1 year & above)
cleaning practices, such as using cotton buds or other objects in your ear. These can do more harm than good. Take care of your ears; they’re precious.
A build-up of earwax in your ear can cause problems like: earache, hearing loss, tinnitus (hearing sounds from inside your body), itchiness in or around the ear, vertigo (a spinning sensation) and ear infections. These will usually improve once the excess earwax has been removed.
We offer affordable Professional Ear Wax Removal using micro-suction, a painless procedure regarded as the safest and most effective method.
Call us at Bedminster Pharmacy on 0117 985 3388 to learn more about our NHS-funded Ear Care and Professional Ear Wax Removal service.
New ferry route from Netham Lock extended
Bristol Ferry Boats’ new route from Netham Lock is extended through the summer
BRISTOL Harbour Office has supported extending Bristol Community Ferry Boats’ Netham trial route til the end of September 2024, with the support of local people. The new route from Netham Lock to the city centre via Temple Meads will run weekend mornings at 10am and weekdays at 8am returning to Netham at 6pm. The Temple Meads stop is available both ways.
This service is the result of two trials conducted over the last six months that received overwhelming support from local people in Brislington and St Anne’s.
One happy customer said: “I really hope this becomes regular. It did wonders for my wellbeing yesterday after taking boat to and from work yesterday.”
Roisin Tobin-Brooke, codirector of Bristol Community Ferry Boats, said: “As a not-forprofit community owned business, we are endeavouring to make this service a sustainable and viable transport link by subsidising the weekday commuter service (£3 each way) with the weekend service, where prices are in line with our day ferry service around the harbour (£8 for a 40-minute journey).”
This service commenced on Monday 3rd June, and tickets are available online.
To find out more, visit
THERE is something different about watching theatre outside. In the open air, the boundaries between the stage and its surroundings are blurred and the leaves, grass and even the weather become players!
Outdoor theatre has a strong history from performers in the streets and squares to the grand amphitheatres and last summer Windmill Hill City Farm built and opened its own – The Garden Theatre. I spoke to Holly Jefferies, live arts co-ordinator at the farm, to find out more:
What inspired the idea to create an open-air theatre on a farm?
Windmill Hill City Farm has always strived to provide a wide range of events, activities and support that encourage community development and wellbeing in the surrounding area, and the
The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver
opening of The Garden Theatre allowed us to branch further into the arts.
Throughout 2022 we were programming the space whilst it was still just the farm play area. The new permanent structure (launched in 2023) has allowed us to create a magical space for audiences and visitors during live events, whilst remaining a free play area for families and children day-to-day.
Does the farm and surroundings affect what you show at the theatre? What makes it different from other theatres?
The Garden Theatre at Windmill Hill City Farm sits within the oasis of nature that the farm offers to visitors. Surrounded by greenery and built from bamboo decking, The Garden Theatre offers an
experience of immersion in nature that compliments theatre shows, live art, music and its place within the farm. The amphitheatre style means that the space is adaptable, informal and accessible, encouraging visitors of all backgrounds.
What can the audience expect when they come to a performance at your theatre?
Audiences can expect to be immersed in nature during events at The Garden Theatre. We offer refreshments prior to all our events at Bar Botanical, our small kiosk bar run by Windmill Hill City Farm Cafe. Day-time events sit excitingly in the hustle and bustle of a working community farm, whilst our mood-lit summer evening events provide a relaxing escape within central Bristol.
What have been the highlights so far?
The Garden Theatre’s 2023 summer programme has been our highlight so far. We were thrilled to host such a diverse range of sell-out events and receive an amazing amount of support our visitors.
What shows can audiences look forward to seeing?
Coming this summer: Sofar Sounds (20th July); The Secret Garden by The Plandits (24th July); and The Tale of Jemima PuddleDuck by Quantum Theatre (10th & 17th August)
So lots to go and see in July, and with lots more shows to be announced for AugustSeptember, check South Bristol Voice and keep an eye on social media for updates.
New ferry route from Netham Lock to the city centre is extended until the end of September
n HEALTH & WELLBEING
How you can live well for longer
OVER the last 30 years, ageing well research has exploded. So, how can we age well and give ourselves the best chance of a longer, healthier, happier life?
Attitude matters:
Research has found that our attitude to our age has an impact on our health and wellbeing –people who have a positive view of their ageing, recognising its potential for personal growth, are more likely to enjoy much better health into their 70s and beyond than others who associate ageing with decline.1
Our age beliefs can also have a direct effect on our bodies: older people who have been exposed to negative age stereotypes tend to have higher blood pressure in response to challenges, while others who have seen positive stereotypes have a lesser reaction.2
This makes sense: if you believe that you are frail and vulnerable, small difficulties can start to feel more threatening.
Our culture is full of ageist messages that reinforce damaging age beliefs and negatively impact older adults. Greetings cards, phrases and headlines often depict negative views of ageing. This is not good for anyone and we need to challenge these stereotypes as aside from anything else they are quite simply not true.
Lifestyle:
A striking fact is that much of our ageing rate is within our gift: until we hit 80 years, well over two-thirds (70-80%) of our ageing rate is determined by environmental factors.3 Here are some of the key factors:
Hydration is so important:
As we get older our sensation of thirst diminishes and chronic dehydration (even if mild) is common. This impacts memory, affects the kidneys and can cause muscle damage, so keep drinking (6-8 cups of water every day).4 5
Physical activity:
We all know exercise is good for us, but it isn’t always easy. The good news is that even small amounts of regular movement
goes a long way. Walking, climbing stairs, lifting shopping – everything counts.6
As we age we lose muscle naturally and so strengthening exercises help stay strong and stable, reducing the chances of falls particularly in later years.7
Nutrition: Obesity increases our risk
of many diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and dementia.8 9 Scientists are also increasingly studying our gut microbiome as research is showing this has an effect on our health and wellbeing.10 11 Eating a healthy, balanced diet, low in ultra-processed foods is definitely good for the body and mind.
Think – an old dog CAN learn new tricks! Our brains are amazing, and we can keep our brain flexible by continuing our learning – music, languages, books – these are all feeding the brain.12 13
Connect and engage: Laughter is great for the body and mind. The dose of
dopamine essentially gives the brain a workout by firing lots of synapses; it also reduces stress and boosts mood. 14
The average four-year-old laughs 300 times a day, whereas the average 40-year-old laughs four.15
People laugh more with those they are close to, so challenge yourself to get together with friends and laugh like a child.16
Attitude:
We can try to rethink our perceptions of our ageing. By learning to reject negative beliefs and appreciate some of the positive changes that come with age, we can have a more positive ageing process both in body and mind.
We recognise that changing routines aren’t always easy and don’t guarantee longevity. However we recommend trying out some of the tips (right) to kickstart your journey to feeling healthier.
Words by Age UK Bristol and Dr Jitka Vseteckova, Ageing Well Expert at The Open University.
REFERENCES
1 The Guardian: https://bit.ly/3RwWnSJ
2 https://wb.md/3Rxcrnz
3 https://bbc.in/3RuAkMp
4 https://mayocl.in/4em6pjn
5 https://bit.ly/4ermggM
6 https://bit.ly/4ermi8o
7 https://bit.ly/3Ruk7H6
8 https://bit.ly/3VJ7kmD
9 https://bit.ly/45z2A6E
10 https://bit.ly/3KNsU3q
11 https://bit.ly/45tVSyP
12 https://mayocl.in/3KJx0JN
13 https://bit.ly/3Xrol65
14 https://bit.ly/4c0obqN
Age UK Bristol’s top tips to age well:
• Practise balancing by standing on one leg whilst brushing your teeth
• Set an alarm to drink regular glasses of water throughout the day
• Choose a new vegetable you wouldn’t normally buy from the supermarket and look up a recipe that uses it
• Join an Age UK Bristol Tai Chi session: www. ageuk.org.uk/bristol/ our-services/linkage/ tai-chi-shibashi/
• Mix your nuts – have a helping of mixed nuts and seeds that you eat over the day
• Spend 5 minutes doing something creative: draw a picture, play an instrument, do an origami online tutorial
• Offer to walk someone’s dog – spending time with animals is calming and walking in nature is good for the body and brain
• Learn something new! Check out the Open University’s Open Learn for a range of courses for everyone or look into the Bristol U3A.
• Join Age UK Bristol’s Friends Ageing Better to meet new people near you: https://www.ageuk. org.uk/bristol/ourservices/fab/
the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements
n LOCAL EVENTS
Luke Jerram’s Gaia to transform Bristol Cathedral this autumn
BRISTOL Cathedral will be hosting Bristol-based artist Luke Jerram’s touring artwork, Gaia, from Tuesday 15th October to Saturday 9th November, for a special four-week-long series of events. Including a performance of Hayden’s Creation and the soundtrack from David Attenborough’s Blue Planet – as performed by Bristol Ensemble – the line-up will also include late night live music experiences.
The first time that the artwork has been installed in a place of worship in Bristol, the cathedral’s programme of events will see faith, science and art come together in celebration of Gaia.
The installation was designed by Jerram to recreate the Overview Effect, a phenomenon first described by author Frank White in 1987. Common features of the experience for astronauts, who are in space seeing Earth for the first time, are a feeling of awe for the planet, a profound understanding of the interconnection of all life and a renewed sense of responsibility for taking care of the environment.
Gaia is 1.8 million times smaller than the Earth, with each centimetre of the internally lit sculpture representing 18km of the Earth’s surface. As such, Gaia helps to make the scale of Earth and its beauty, a reality for all.
Coinciding with Gaia’s stay at the Cathedral will be a series of events designed to amplify and elevate visitors’ experiences of the artwork. Bristol Cathedral is hosting four Up Late events, where audiences will be welcomed into the space between 6pm and 9pm, to enjoy both the Cathedral and Gaia in darkness, alongside immersive live music.
On Thursday 24th October, a one-off Blue Planet concert, which will see Bristol Ensemble performing music from the
iconic soundtrack to David Attenborough’s Blue Planet series as Gaia rotates, will provide an emotional and evocative accompaniment to the installation.
Luke Jerram, artist, said:
“After the success of Museum of the Moon at Bristol Cathedral in 2021, which attracted over 65,000 people, I’m delighted to bring my Gaia earth artwork to my home city. I can’t wait for visitors to the Cathedral to see the Earth as if from space: an incredibly beautiful and precious experience.
“The Cathedral is hosting a really exciting and inspirational programme of events that people can get involved with and I’ll also be announcing a new environmental artwork for the region in tandem with Gaia being installed.”
The Very Rev’d Mandy Ford, Dean of Bristol, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Gaia, the earth artwork, to Bristol Cathedral where it will be the centrepiece of a rich programme of events, including world music, discussions and children’s activities. The Museum of the Moon attracted visitors to the Cathedral who had never visited before and who discovered our beautiful historic building, encountered our welcoming community and experienced the awe and wonder of the Moon. I am excited to see how Gaia will do the same for Earth - and hope that many will come and see the artwork in all its glory.”’
For priority access to updates and tickets, you need to sign up to Bristol Cathedral’s Newsletter at https://bit. ly/4eteGlC
(Top Right) Bristol Cathedral (Top Middle) Concert under Gaia. HOTA, Gold Coast, Australia.
Photo (c) Scott Belzner (Right Bottom) Gaia at Liverpool Cathedral for Liverpool City Council’s River Festival, 2019.
Photo (c) Phil Longfoot
n FOOD & NUTRITION
5 tips for stress-free family mealtimes
Take the pressure off:
If you’re feeling anxious about how much or how little or what your child is eating at mealtimes or encouraging them to eat more, your child will be feeling this as pressure to eat and it will lead to them eating less or nothing at all.
Eat with your child:
Whenever possible, eat as a family and encourage your children to join in with the social parts of eating. Serve the food which brings you joy so you can role model and show them how enjoyable food can be.
Start with an empty plate:
The simple step of allowing a child to serve themselves often means they eat a lot more – it gives them some much desired control over what they are eating, how much as well as when they choose to explore new foods.
Explore food away from the table:
Build comfort and familiarity around new and disliked foods by engaging your child in food-based activities away from the table and getting them involved in the kitchen.
Duck Leg Ragu
Do some planning:
Often, a lot of the stress comes from thinking about what you’re going to eat. Doing some meal planning will mean you have the answer to that dreaded question, “What’s for dinner?” Have all the ingredients to hand and be present and calm whilst cooking and eating.
Sarah is a family mealtimes mentor; helping parents transform mealtimes from stressful to stress-free. She specialises in working with parents on the practical aspects of mealtimes, from fussy eater issues to saving time, energy, money and waste in the kitchen.
IS BOLOGNESE or some sort of pasta sauce a family favourite in your house? It is in ours but sometimes it is nice to serve something a little different, so I’ll cook up a batch of my duck leg ragu.
Slow cooking duck legs in a tomato-based sauce until they are so tender that the meat falls off the bones and shreds easily is a wonderful way of achieving a flavour-packed Ragu to serve with pasta.
Unlike duck breasts, duck legs are usually relatively inexpensive, and two legs can go a very long way in the sauce.
Serves 4
INGREDIENTS
7g porcini soaked in 50ml hot water (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion, finely chopped
1 stick celery, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Splash of balsamic vinegar
1.5 tbsp tomato puree
400g tin chopped tomatoes
1/2 tin chicken stock
1 Grana Padano/Parmesan rind (optional)
1 heaped tsp Marmite
2 duck legs, skinned (keep the skin)
Salt and pepper
Cooked pappardelle, basil and grated Grana Padano/Parmesan (to serve)
METHOD
1. Pre-heat the oven to 140C Fan.
2. Heat the olive oil in casserole pan on a low heat.
3. Sweat the onions, celery and carrots with a good grinding of black pepper until they are soft but not browned. I like to speed up this process by putting the lid on the pan for
3-4 minutes and then removing it to get rid of any steam and liquid from the vegetables.
4. Squeeze out the porcini and finely chop. Put the liquor to one side for later.
5. Add the chopped porcini to the pan along with the garlic. Cook for a minute or so, stirring all the time, until the smell of the garlic has dissipated.
6. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar and the tomato puree. Stir through and cook out for a couple of minutes.
7. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, followed by the stock and the porcini liquor. Stir well.
8. Drop in the Grana Padano/Parmesan rind and stir in the Marmite.
9. Bring to boil then turn down to a simmer and add the duck legs.
10. Put the lid on and transfer to the oven for around 2 hours, until the meat is falling away from the bones. Check and stir after 1 hour.
11. Put the duck skin onto a baking tray lined with foil and season with salt.
12. Put the skin into the oven to crisp up, draining off the fat after 1 hour (keep the fat in a sealed jar in the fridge and use it to cook your roast potatoes).
13. Once crisp, remove from the oven and
To get in touch, contact Sarah via:
Email: sarah@kitchentitbits.co.uk
Instagram: @kitchentitbits
Facebook: @KitchenTitbits.Sarah
Phone: 07973 148487
Website: kitchentitbits.co.uk
allow to cool.
14. Once cooked, remove the duck legs from the sauce and transfer to a plate. Using two forks, remove the meat from the bones and shred.
15. Return the meat to the pan and stir through the sauce.
16. Check the seasoning and adjust as necessary by adding salt and/or pepper.
17. Break up the crispy duck skin into little pieces.
18. Serve the Ragu over some pappardelle and sprinkle with the crispy duck skin, cheese and basil.
Welcome to Earth
A BS3 Wildlife Group member is turning her garden into a wildlife haven
By Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3 Wildlife Group
Discover the importance of the humble insect
Visitors from space might conclude that Earth’s main life form is small, has three body segments and six legs. Insects appeared around 480 million years ago. They established an early alliance with the emerging land plants, especially those that developed flowers. Insects were the first flying animals from c400 million years ago. Like most creatures, they were nearly wiped out by several mass extinctions, especially the biggest of all (so far!!) which was 252 million years ago. Today they are far away the most numerous group on the planet, including BS3.
Rightly, people get excited to Save the Whale, Bring Back Beavers and Protect Elephants, but if all these disappeared, it wouldn’t make much difference to earth life as a whole. But no insects would be disastrous, not that we’d know, because we’d be gone, too.
The ‘windscreen test’, ie the frequency in which we have to wash our car window, suggests that numbers are well down on, say, 25 years ago. That means less bees and butterflies to pollinate our food plants (for free!) and less bird food.
Insects are therefore very important for the Greater Bedminster Urban Nature Reserve. We need to value rather than ignore them and certainly stop poisoning them. We are working with Butterfly Conservation to raise awareness generally and with their city-wide project aimed at primary school children developing more wildlife friendly school grounds.
We also want to know what insects live in BS3, so we need more pictures, even if you don’t know what it’s called.
For more information and how to help, please contact: mywildbedminster@virginmedia.com
n FITNESS
Get in tune with your
body
HERE comes summer, and with it those awful beach body adverts, promotions and social pressures to look a certain way or you can’t possibly have the best summer. And we know that’s not true... You’ve had the best time of your life in the scruffiest clothes with no make-up on and greasy hair – admit it!
This summer, be more concerned about how your body feels and less about how it looks.
How does your body wake up? Get up the stairs? Allow you to do all the things you love doing?
If your health is your priority and you feel good, believe me, the looking good will follow. So start with how you feel – these might help:
• Stay dehydrated: up your water intake with infused water and keep a cool bottle in the fridge.
• Tired due to later sunsets and early sunrises? Sort those blinds out and go to bed a bit earlier.
• Nourish your body with salads, seasonal fruit, and fresh BBQ meals with friends. Great food and great friends are the best combo.
• As I say roll with the seasons and move more outside with activities that make you feel good. Body + beach = a beach body.
• Only cover up those beautiful bodies if it’s scorching hot and you forgot your sunscreen. Otherwise, show them off and maybe find some shade. And ignore those adverts!
By Leanne Copley, Sona Pilates
Beautiful Demoiselle female Buff Ermine (Steve Brain)
© Laura Demery, a member of the Friends of the Avon New Cut (FrANC)
Jersey Tiger Marbled White
Orange Footman Thick-legged Flower Beetle (Nicola Round)
n WICKED WITCH
In witch I become a bit twitchy
I WAS on my daily dog walk when I bumped into fellow dog walker Curly Girl (wild curly hair with a matching curly haired dog). This is the one who took her dog to the carpet shop and asked them to match the colour to said dog.
Alas that pooch has died and, after a period of mourning, Curly Girl decided to get another, although this one is a different colour which means she’ll have to redo her carpets.
Anyway, she was walking along staring at her phone; I called a greeting and she immediately looked guilty.
“I’m not looking at Facebook,” she assured me before glancing back at that addictive little screen, “I’ve got this new app that identifies
birds from their song.”
How exciting! When I got home I immediately downloaded the app, refreshingly free, and stood in the back garden to record the chirping: blackbirds, black caps and a wren were identified, together with a wood pigeon and a crow.
The humble pigeon is one of my favourite birds. My friend Mrs Bean (she’s the female version of Mr Bean) called me to say she was in her garden with a pigeon sitting on her head.
This did not surprise me. Turns out it was a racing pigeon who had got a bit lost – he had taken a shine to Mrs Bean and spent
the next few days following her around the house or sitting on her head until the owner was traced and arrangements made for him to be collected. She was sad to see him go.
Pigeons are oddly humanlike; they are one of the only birds that produce milk for their young. No, they don’t have teats, but they produce it in their throat and feed it to their young via their beaks. They are also one of the only birds who can suck up water instead of scooping and they mate for life.
One time Himself was driving along where the underpass is towards Temple Meads and he
saw a pigeon get killed by a truck. This was horrible but what made it worse was the reaction of Mrs Pigeon. She flew down and stared at the body of her partner, then looked up and remained motionless as a huge lorry came hurtling towards her. She didn’t try to save herself and that was the end of her. Just like Romeo and Juliette – tragic!
Back to the app and I was in Dorset where they have some different types of birds. The app listened and told me that there was a Stonechat and a Common Chiffchaff in the area. Hang on –I’m sure we have a few of those in Bristol?
n WHAT’S ON
5th July 3.30pm, Holy Cross Primary School Summer Fair. BBQ – Games – Various stalls. Entrance £2 per adult, kids go free
JULY 13th
Luckwell School Summer Fayre
Back with a bang! Come and join us at Luckwell School summer fayre on 13 July from 12-3pm. Family fun, games, bouncy castle, food and drink. Beer provided by Bristol Beer Factory. Luckwell Primary School, Breach Road BS3.
The Hay Wain, John Constable’s iconic oil painting, is at Bristol Museum, from now til 1 Sep 2024 The exhibition will also include oil sketches from the Victoria & Albert Museum. https://bit.ly/44HV8p6
6 July, Redcatch Community Garden 12.00 pm – 4.00pm. Selling a range of vegetables, plants and eggs as well as compost, cards and flowers. Check Facebook for updated list and for changes of openings https://bit. ly/3RaXBTx
8 July, Musical Bingo at Hen & Chicken, Southville, 7pm. £5 per person. https://bit.ly/3yEatLv Arnos Vale Classic Tour, Saturdays at 1:30-3pm, Ticket: £6. An informative ramble around the historic Arnos Vale Cemetery. Your guide will tell you about the cemetery’s past, present and future. They will show you the interesting and unusual symbols and graves, point out some of our more well-known residents and tell you
about the buildings and landscape. https://arnosvale.org.uk/classictour/
The Garden Theatre at Windmill Hill City Farm Sofar Sounds (20th July); The Secret Garden by The Plandits (24th July); The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck by Quantum Theatre (10th & 17th August). https://bit.ly/3R4Na3X
Don’t Stop Queen Now, 19 July, O2 Academy, from £24.10, https://dsqn. co.uk. Enjoy all the hits of Queen, with Michael Spence (Starstruck, ITV1) as Freddie for the night.
Bristol Pride 29 June – 14 July | Pride Day Sat 13 July.
Bristol Pride is a unique and important event that celebrates the LGBT+ community offering the chance to connect people. Enjoy the festival headliner, The Human League, plus a day of incredible acts including electronica duo, Ladytron, Claire Richards from STEPS, and indiepop sensation Georgia. https:// bristolpride.co.uk
27 & 28 July, Festival of Archaeology 10am – 2pm, Brean Down, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/somerset/ brean-down A weekend of history at Brean Down – explore its fascinating past, stretching back over 10,000 years. Get involved with lots of activities which will bring different chapters of the Down’s history to life, from searching for pottery remains at the site of the Roman temple to dressing up as an officer at the World War II fort. Price: Free (usual car park fee applies
n JUBILEE POOL NEWS
Check out what’s
happening at the pool…
Pool funds top £200K Jubilee Pool’s Grant Fundraising group has managed to raise just over £200K to start work on the repairs to the pool with grants from Nisbet Trust, John James Charitable Trust, Enovert Community Trust, Sirona Foundation, Medlock Charitable Trust and Garfield Weston Foundation.
Help needed Volunteers are needed to help
run the next Aqua disco planned for 13 July. For more information or to offer help, email rachel_ heaton@fojp.co.uk
Save the date!
The next 24-hour Jubilee-athon is planned for 5/6 October 2024 with prizes for individual achievement, best team and most outrageous fancy dress. Plus every entrant will receive a funky swim hat!
– free for NT members). Booking not required.
Echoes from the Aviary, Tynesfield, Daily to 31 July 10am–5.30pm. A group of young people from Hartcliffe have been working with artists Oshii and Jono Gilmurray to create a sound and visual art installation for Tyntesfield’s aviary. Echoes from the Aviary is a collaboration between the National Trust and Heart of BS13 and is supported using public funding by Arts Council England. Price: Free (normal admission applies). www. nationaltrust.org.uk/tyntesfield Knowle West Fest, 5 Aug 11:00 – 17:00. A FREE fun day out for everyone! Barnstaple Rd, Bristol BS4 1JP. Community parade starts at The Park Centre at 11. Enjoy live music on the outdoor stage, a craft market, creative activities, circus skills with Circomedia and a silent disco. Food stalls and bar.
Mondays 5-6pm, Gardening sessions, Dame Emily Park. Everyone is welcome; no experience necessary! Bring your own gloves. Tea and cake provided! Contact: dameemilypark@gmail.com
First Wednesday of the month, South Bristol Gardening Club. St Paul’s Church, Coronation Road, Southville. Annual membership £25. A friendly club and new members are very welcome. The club has a varied series of talks and visits planned for 2024. Club members enjoy free regular talks from expert speakers
and subsidised visits to gardens throughout the year. To join, go to https://bit.ly/3w6xjKB
Thursdays 2-4.45pm, Forest school, Dame Emily Park. Developing a sense of awe and wonder about nature, so together we can save it. Contact info@forestchild.co.uk
Thursdays 10.30am-12pm, Gardening for Wellbeing, Redcatch Community Garden. A free weekly gardening group to support your wellbeing, to enable you to meet people and so you can enjoy being outdoors. Tea and coffee included. To book a place, email kaya@redcatchcg. com or call/text 0785 863 0507
Fridays, Women’s Craft Club. FREE, 11am to 1pm, Arnolfini, Second Floor, Reading Room. Run in partnership with Bristol Refugee Festival at Arnolfini where women from all backgrounds are welcome to go along, have a cup of tea and get crafty. All materials are provided. community@ arnolfini.org.uk
southbristolvoice
A trio of charity events near you...
Autumn Years Community Care Limited is celebrating its first year working with people living with dementia and their carers. The company launched its specialist dementia care service in May 2023 and now operates three Respite Day Centres across Bristol, as well as offering an At Home Friends Service.
The company is now looking to expand its number of centres with a new centre set to launch on Wednesdays.
Autumn Years Friends at Home Service offers respite, support and companionship, enabling its clients to live independently for longer, and giving them and their loved ones the peace of mind that they have a friend close by to make sure that they are safe and well cared for.
● TV Aerials & Satellites
● Sky Work Undertaken
● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting
● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions ● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems
For details of the services provided, visit www.autumnyearscommunitycare. com
Breast Cancer Now’s Afternoon Tea
Why not host an afternoon tea this August for Breast Cancer Now’s Afternoon Tea? The annual event aims to raise money to help power life-saving breast cancer research and vital support.
You can sign up for your fundraising kit at: breastcancernow.org/afternoon-tea
Ride for Precious Lives
Cancer survivor Rob Berry, 56, is climbing back on his bike for the sixth time to take part
in Children’s Hospice South West’s Ride for Precious Lives in July, after already completing the charity’s Incredible Hike in May. Rob will be cycling over 200 miles, across three counties in three days.
Ride for Precious Lives is a unique annual sponsored cycling challenge, which takes over 100 cyclists more than 200 miles across the South West to raise money for short and precious lives.
Riding from Bristol to St Austell, participants cycle through challenging but breathtaking scenery and visit the three children’s hospices as part of their journey.
You can find out more at: www.chsw.org. uk/event/ride-precious-lives-2024
