South Bristol Voice September 2023

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

Passengers across South Bristol are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said: “I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

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MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

WELL-SET FOR HIGH-SKILLED JOBS

Thousands of West of England residents have been taking part in free, flexible training courses so they can go on to get in-demand and high-skilled jobs thanks to a £8 million investment by the Mayoral Combined Authority.

One course that some of the learners took part in was to learn welding skills. They were taught in fully equipped workshops by lecturers with a combination of over 30 years of industry experience.

At the end of the course, all two dozen participants got guaranteed interviews with big West of England-located firms like EDF Energy as well as meetings and other opportunities with companies looking for people with the skills they were learning.

One learner said: “I really enjoyed the welding course. I must admit the bootcamp experience went above and beyond my expectations – both personally and professionally. I interviewed and found a great job before I finished my course. What a great opportunity for anyone looking to start a new career.”

Passengers across South Bristol are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Anyone who wants to be sign up for future training courses can visit:

https://www.westofengland-ca.gov.uk/skills

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said:

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR DAN NORRIS

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

WEST OF ENGLAND IS BEES KNEES

“I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

The winners of an awards scheme showcasing “bee bestie” West of England groups taking superpositive steps to support bees and other pollinators in the region have been announced.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

The unique competition celebrates the amazing bee busy groups who have gone above and beyond to look after the region’s busy bugs through actions like creating a blossoming community patch or nature friendly allotments, and everything in between.

The Bee Bold Awards ceremony took place as part of a fun packed day of performers, live music and pollinator activities, culminating in the 2023 Pollinator Champions being crowned by the Metro Mayor in front of locals.

There will be more Bee Bold Awards in 2024 so local community groups with pollinator friendly projects should keep an eye out for that!

Mayor Dan Norris finds out about welding skills

Jean Vernon (aka ‘Jeanie Bee’) discusses making the West of England the UK’s pollinator capital with the Metro Mayor

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

Bus passengers face another blow as a “lifeline” service in South Bristol is due to be axed this month. The 52 service runs from Broadmead through Bedminster, Bedminster Down and Highridge to Hartcliffe, but will be completely cancelled from September 3.

The service is one of many in the region which is subsidised by local councils. This means it

doesn’t turn a profit so Bristol City Council pays towards the company operating the service to help keep it going. But earlier this year subsidies for several routes were withdrawn.

Local councillors and residents said the 52 bus service was “absolutely crucial”. One local councillor said the West of England Combined Authority should

step in and fund the route with money from the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), a government grant.

Conservative Councillor Richard Eddy, representing Bishopsworth, said: “The 52 service is absolutely crucial to local people without private cars and it’s essential it’s

Cont on page 5 >

Contacts

Ruth Drury Sales Director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Jane Williams Editor

news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

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.

Tessa Fitzjohn Green, Bedminster

By phone: 07584182801 By email: Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk

Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk

By phone: 0117 353 3160

Tony Dyer Green, Southville

By phone: 07584182862 By email:

Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk

Christine Townsend Green, Southville By phone: 07584183843 By email:

Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. gov.uk

Christopher Davies Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr. Christopher.Davies@bristol.gov.uk

Phone: 07826917714

Gary Hopkins Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk

Phone: 07977 512159

Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill

Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk

Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill

Phone: 07584186535

By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk

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Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 07590527664 southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure

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South Bristol

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Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk

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

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

Another blow to bus passengers as ‘lifeline’ service axed

maintained if whole communities are not going to be marooned and cut off. The Transpora Group was very helpful and confirmed that they were willing to continue to run the route.

“They stated that the reason for the axe was down to the West of England metro mayor, Dan Norris, who has chosen not to use his BSIP pot of funding to support the vital service. Cllr Kevin Quarterly and I have written to the metro mayor urging him to urgently reverse the short-sighted decision.”

Sue Mullins, who lives in Bishopsworth, added: “This axe will seriously impact many residents who use the bus, not only to get into town but also to get to the Imperial Park shopping centre and South Bristol Community Hospital. The 52 service has been a lifeline and provides independence to those

unable to catch the alternative 75 and 76 bus services.”

The 52 bus is run by Transpora, which operates several transport businesses across England. The company said it “loved serving communities” along the route, but they could no longer afford to do so.

Charlie Butler, marketing and communications manager at Transpora, said: “The decision to withdraw the 52 was not an easy one to make. In April, we continued operating the 52 at our own cost following funding cuts by the West of England Combined Authority, which saw a number of supported community routes withdrawn.

“We continued operating the much-needed 52 on the basis it worked between some funded school routes. The funding for those schools has now also been withdrawn, so therefore we cannot afford to operate this

route with any funding going forward. We have loved serving the communities along the 52 route and we will be sad to go.

“We have presented WECA with many options to restore those withdrawn links including routes for Highridge and Ashton Vale using the governmentawarded BSIP grant funding, but unfortunately this was not forthcoming and therefore in line with the authorities’ new bi-yearly service change date, we have submitted notification to withdraw route 52.”

The government previously had strict rules in place about how the BSIP money could be used. This meant it could only be spent on “new and innovative” ways to improve bus services, rather than propping up traditional routes like the 52.

When the government relaxed these rules in June, this raised hopes that the money could go

towards funding some of the several subsidised routes in the West of England under threat. But last month the interim acting chief executive of the combined authority, Richard Ennis, told councillors that there were still “significant hurdles” in using the BSIP money.

Subsidised buses in the region have always been funded by local councils like Bristol City Council, rather than the combined authority. But Bristol and the other two councils in the region said spiralling costs in the bus industry meant they could not increase their subsidies in line with inflation. One major issue with the BSIP grant is that it’s meant to be spent over just three years, and subsidised routes like the 52 need a more long-term funding solution.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter

What’s to come in this month’s South Bristol Arts Trail?

125 creatives will be taking part in the South Bristol Arts Trail, showcasing artwork, demonstrating techniques, running workshops and selling products and finished pieces. Artists will be opening their homes and studio spaces, as well as exhibiting in shops, cafes and community centres.

As well as a brilliant selection of exhibiting artists, there is also a workshop schedule. The majority of workshops are free drop-in sessions, all run by Bristol-based creatives. Try your hand at a variety of printmaking, visit the Clayground at Estate of the Arts and head to Silver & Steel to watch silver recycling demonstrations. Get creative with the whole family with activities from Colourful Minds, join in with some crafty collage and have a go at making pinch pots.

Village Pottery

Jen’s functional pottery will be on display in her home this

September. Her work is meant to be interacted with on a daily basis in a home setting, so exhibiting in a house venue really helps showcase their intended function. All pieces are thrown on a potters’ wheel. Pieces are then fired, glazed and fired again up to 1,240 degrees, with the whole process taking about 3 weeks from start to finish. “I’m new to the Trail.

I used to have a shop in Bristol which I closed about 6 years ago. I really miss talking face to face with customers, so I’m looking forward to having that feeling back for the weekend.”

Chimps Tea Party

Pippa from Chimps Tea Party will be showcasing her colourful printed textiles and homewares at the Arts Trail this year. Her illustrations are all designed using paper, are cut and stuck by hand and inspired by nature, mid century vintage, food and nostalgia. “I’m looking forward to exhibiting at Riverside Garden Centre for the first time this year, as it’s one of my favourite places in the area and it seems like the perfect setting for my nature appreciating work.”

Peri Taylor

Peri has enjoyed getting to know the area over the last couple of years, with the independent shops and street art encouraging

her to join this year. Based at the Tobacco Factory for the weekend, Peri specialises in painting colourful canvases (pictured above) inspired by the coast, boats and harbours, and has started incorporating sea glass into her work. “I paint in acrylics and always under paint my canvas usually with a vibrant colour from which I build up the painting. It feels as if I am sculpting the painting out of the colour.”

See the full listings on southbristolarts.co.uk

A slide in Victoria Park, with the Bedminster Green development in the background. Picture: Alex Seabrook

Download your copy of the map online or pick up one from The Southville Centre or Glass Designs Gallery on North Street

n SUSTAINABILITY

Going plastic free

How to make it a habit

In July, Zero Green shared some ideas for starting to reduce the amount of plastic in your life. Did you give them a go?

If you have identified which aspects of your lifestyle are producing the most plastic, and have started making substitutions, you might be ready to take the next steps and reduce your plastic consumption even further.

Challenge yourself to explore plastic-free alternatives for a whole area of your life; for example, in the bathroom, in the kitchen, or when travelling.

During lockdown, we decided to try and achieve a plastic-free bathroom. It took a bit of trial and error to find the products that really worked for us, but some switches – like investing in a safety razor –were so easy that we have never looked back.

If going for a totally plasticfree kitchen seems like too much, maybe you could focus on one meal per day, such as breakfast. Placing empty jars by the door, next to your cotton tote bag, can be a handy habit to remind you to top up. Investing in beautiful jars that will inspire you to refill can be a good way to keep the

5k for AD event “a great success”

momentum going, but please don’t feel you have to do this to get started. Any container can be used to refill.

Once you start really paying attention, you will notice how the small but frequent pieces of single-use plastic add up. It is so easy to grab a take-away coffee, or a bottle of water, without thinking of what will happen to the container. If you notice yourself doing this regularly, perhaps you could keep an eye out for a reusable bottle or travel cup that you really love. You can use these time and time again, and each time you do, that’s one less piece of plastic entering our environment.

Partners Rob and Anwen took over at Zero Green in July 2022. Zero Green’s mission is to help minimise the plastic that is polluting our beautiful planet, by stocking a range of bulk-buy and plastic-free groceries, cleaning, hygiene and wellbeing products.

The 5k for AD was a great success at Ashton Gate Stadium, and the total raised is currently £5,000, going to The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust. Spurs and England footballer Gary Mabbutt even made a rare appearance to his native Bristol having started his career with Bristol Rovers.

Legends, charity ambassadors and survivors including footballer Steve Perryman and BBC broadcaster Bob Harris, who are both AD survivors, appeared and participated. Along with Bristol City stars Geoff Merrick, Trevor Tainton, David Rogers, Paul Cheesley, Tom Ritchie, Gerry Sweeney and Andy Tilson, the former Bristol Rovers captain.

Bristol Bears including Tom Tainton, Katie Griffin, Daisie Mayes, Holly Philips, Zoe Slater and Sally Knight also joined in the 5k walk around the pitch.

Bristol’s former mayor George Ferguson also participated, and Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Paula O’ Rourke addressed all participants. Mayor Marvin Rees’ recorded message was played prior to event

The event was compered by local TV and radio broadcaster Nigel Turner.

While popular singer and comedian Micky John Bull entertained throughout. The event was sponsored and supported by Burston & Cook, CJ Hole, BBS, West End Investments, Cheddar Water, Gary Horne Photography, Cheddar Water, Nigel Turner Productions as well as the Bristol Hotel.

The event was organised by Paul Hobbs, in his 29th year fundraising for the event. Paul was delighted with the success of the event and said: “It was a great event and sent out a strong message regarding a condition not enough people know about. Awarenss is essential and money needed for medical research, education and victim family support. My thanks to everyone who has sponsored, supported, donated, participated and helped the event be a great success. Myself and the charity greatly appreciate and thank everyone who supported this event.”

Rob and Anwen, co-directors of Zero Green on North Street

Local pharmacist awarded honorary degree

UWE Bristol awards local Bristol pharmacist Ade Williams with honorary degree.

Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy was among the recipients of honorary degrees presented during UWE Bristol’s summer graduation ceremonies at Bristol Cathedral. The Honorary Graduate was conferred during UWE Bristol’s graduation ceremonies held on 28 July.

Ade Williams MBE – Doctor of Science: Ade is the Superintendent Pharmacist of the multi-award-winning Bedminster Pharmacy in South Bristol. He also leads the Bristol Travel Clinic. Awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to the NHS and previously the 2019 NHS Parliamentary Award for Excellence in Primary Care, he is a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Arts and the Royal Society for Public Health. Alongside being a Royal Pharmaceutical Society Fellow, he is the profession’s Patient Champion.

His enthusiastic input to finding pragmatic, scalable solutions for complex health and policy matters, alongside a passion for engaging and empowering patients, makes him part of many national and crossprofessional working groups and campaigns. He is a trustee and board member of the Self

Care Forum Charity and an NHS Vaccine Hero – promoting broader access and increased vaccination uptake, especially in South Bristol He is a regular voice and face on BBC Radio Bristol and across our TV channels. He is involved in supporting a wide range of local organisations and initiatives, including as chair of both the Bedminster Lantern Parade and the Bedminster Business Improvement District (BID).

Housing Forums for

Afternoon:

He was also helpful in setting up the Irish Domestic Violence Community Pharmacy Initiative – Safe Pharmacy.

Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ commenting on the award, said: ‘‘A tremendous recognition for the excellent work and contributions to humanity done by Ade. We thank him for years of dedication, service, inspiration, kindness and more.’’

Bristol council tenants – get involved!

Thursday 7 September, 1–3pm

Evening: Tuesday 19 September , 6–8pm

Your opinions help us make decisions!

For September 2023, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and hear about the ongoing work we are doing to ensure fire safety for residents in our high rise blocks of flats and how we have been engaging with residents. Find out about our plans for future engagement and how you can help us develop our approach.

● We will also be sharing an update on improvements we have been making to communal areas, and you can find out how to suggest changes you would like to see in your area.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email  tpu@bristol.gov.uk

Pharmacist Ade Williams has received an honorary degree from UWE

BRISTOL SOUTH MP KARIN SMYTH

September is a new start for our young people

For many children in Bristol South, and their parents and carers, this month of September marks a new beginning. From the youngest joining a Reception class to those starting college courses or apprenticeships, the future is exciting but perhaps also a little daunting.

Last month we saw GCSE, BTEC and A-Level students opening their results after years of hard work. Well done to everyone, but remember if you didn’t do as well as you hoped there are always options available.

Sadly for many parents, back to school is also a time when family budgets are squeezed further, pressure which will be even greater this year. The new school uniform or

the PE kit is never cheap. But thanks to action by Labour in Parliament, the Government is now forced to publish legally binding guidance for schools on the cost of school uniforms and sportswear. No pupil should feel unable to participate fully in PE or represent their class or school because the PE kit is too expensive. A small step, admittedly, but a vital one. Just imagine what we could achieve back in government. The last Labour Government rebuilt or substantially improved every secondary school in Bristol South. Per pupil funding doubled and record results were gained at ages 14, 16 and 18. Nationally, there were 274,000 more support staff

and teaching assistants, working alongside thousands of new teachers.

The challenges are great. We will need to restore morale in the workforce, develop a curriculum that will help all children develop and thrive, and crucially we will need to reform early years support, rescuing what we can from the wreckage of more than a decade of under-funding.

So, as children return to school, let’s think about the future and how we can make education better. It can and must be done. When I speak to parents, carers and teachers they are looking ahead, and doing all they can to provide the best possible start for children.

The time has come for the Government to re-join parents, carers and teachers in this ambition, and with Labour that’s exactly what you will get.

n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS

Gary Hopkins and Chris Davies

Knowle Community Party councillors for Knowle

Over the last 10 years, our parks have suffered badly from lack of investment. In fact, a Freedom of Information request for details of what has been invested park by park since the present mayor came to power has gone unanswered because officers say they do not know.

The last big local investment came over 10 years ago prior to the first mayor when the then cabinet that gary served in in charge of parks put in £1.5m for playgrounds across the city and locally we benefited from the sale of part of Salcombe Road rec for affordable housing which provided nearly another £1m locally.

We also sourced a sizable grant outside the council for the tennis courts and muga in Redcatch. The present mayor, as well as slashing parks funding, has abolished some

local funds and quite frankly, if it had not been for local volunteers over many years and the wonderful efforts of the community garden, Knowle would not have such highly rated parks.

Well, thanks to budget amendments supported by all opposition parties, some of the strategic development tax is now available to be spent on parks near to development. Money has already been announced for Victoria Park and Redcatch Park now qualifies to join the queue. We have launched a petition to get £500,000 of these funds for Redcatch Park and there was a public meeting in the community garden on 30 August to spread the word. If you missed that, please contact us to find out how you can help to get Redcatch Park at the top of the queue.

The Council has finally announced reopening dates for two key travel routes in our area. The Chocolate Path alongside the New Cut will reopen on September 5 (some five years after being closed) while Gaol Ferry Bridge is due to open at 5pm on September 8, just over a year since it was closed for essential repairs.

This is fantastic news for residents both within our ward and elsewhere in South Bristol – these are key routes for both pedestrians and cyclists. The opening of Gaol Ferry Bridge should see much needed footfall return to Wapping Wharf where some businesses have suffered severely as a result of the extended closure.

Autumn will see the return of the Southville/ Bedminster Local History Festival – back by popular demand after last year. Christine

and Tony will again work with local historians and venues to run these popular sessions celebrating often unsung, ordinary Bristolians whose lives and work continue to impact our area today. Look out for further information about dates, times and venues as we move closer to the Autumn.

As we reported in our summer leaflet, we are fully behind the essential work of protecting Bristol’s last working farm for future generations. Yew Tree Farm on Bedminster Down continues to be threatened by encroachment onto this eco rich environment which is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. The farm is a key starting point for wildlife corridors and breeding grounds supporting biodiversity in our own streets and green spaces.

FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS

Shortly after we were elected, the 40-year old swing in Victoria Park next to the school was removed as it was no longer safe. Many disappointed people contacted us, so we made it a priority to revitalise this neglected space.

So we are pleased that the new skatepark is imminently due to start construction. Having won funding to transform the rest of the space, we will be at Victoria Park Festival on September 16 with our consultation results and the Council’s designer, to reveal the first draft designs. Please come and tell us what you think.

We are also pleased to support the local BS3 Jamming-project (fb.com/bs3jammin), a brilliant harvest-time initiative to make the best use of any surplus local crops, making jams/juices/pickles for the benefit of the BS3 community food bank.

This is an inspiring locally run initiative, and reminds us that the greatest changes for the climate must be collective. But also, on a large scale. The most effective solutions to the climate crisis need local and national government to act and create the conditions for everyone to play their part.

We’ve been deeply disappointed to see the main parties racing to the bottom on climate and air quality – it shows the need for Green politicians in the room to keep the pressure on. If you want better progressive policies on housing, planning, transport and the environment please keep supporting us, as well as taking your own actions. We need ‘bottom-up’ as well as ‘top-down’ pressure for change.

Congratulations to Young Bristol Ashton Vale Will Payne Youth and Community Development

Lead for the fantastic new sports equipment and refurbished football and basketball courts. This is a very important community asset within Bedminster, and provides excellent opportunities for young people’s health and wellbeing. I was delighted to attend the launch along with Deputy Lord Mayor Paula O’Rourke and Cllr Mark Bradshaw.

Great news that the Chocolate Path and Goal Ferry Bridge will finally be reopening to cyclists and pedestrians (on September 5 and 8 respectively). The reopening will likely be a relief to businesses on Wapping Wharf which have seen lower footfall during the extended closure of the bridge. Please do pay

the area a visit if you haven’t been recently.

Myself and Bedminster’s Green campaigners like Jai Breitnauer and Eleanor Freeman are well aware that some residents are struggling with the impact of the Clean Air Zone, which particularly affects the very young and very old. The fact that South Bristol has lost local bus routes has likely contributed to increased car use and social isolation.

We will be working with the Windmill Hill Councillors and the Reclaim Our Buses campaign to discuss an action plan to lobby the regional authority (WECA) and are planning to put in an application to WECA to fund a new system.

Bedminster’s forgotten theatrical gem

As they get set to lift the curtain on a new show celebrating Bedminster’s Hippodrome, Southville’s acta theatre group look back at the venue’s history

Step back in time and enter the glamorous world of the Bedminster Hippodrome Theatre, a gem that once graced East Street. Designed by the renowned architect Bertie Crewe and decked out by AR Dean Ltd, this theatre opened its doors on August 5, 1911, setting the stage for a night of unforgettable entertainment.

With an elegant exterior featuring red-brick and white Carrara, the Hippodrome was a sight to behold. Step inside and you’d find yourself immersed in a world of white and gold decorations, with a touch of delicate cream. The 70ft wide auditorium accommodated 3,000 spectators in plush armchairs, ensuring everyone could relax and enjoy an excellent viewing spot.

The stage itself was an impressive 80ft wide and 42ft deep, equipped with modern appliances and a heavenly blue background painted on the ceiling. The theatre even boasted a 17-piece orchestra. Safety and comfort were top priorities, with ample cloakroom space, saloons, and even a dedicated St John’s Ambulance room to ensure the audience’s wellbeing.

Horace Goldin, a prominent magician, took centre stage at the Bedminster Hippodrome’s opening, stepping in to cover The Great Lafayette and captivating audiences with his illusions. Goldin was renowned for his

innovative approach to magic performances, with one of his most iconic creations being the sawing a woman in half illusion. This groundbreaking trick became a hallmark of his act, showcasing his mastery of illusion and showmanship.

The Bedminster Hippodrome held its grand opening in the presence of notable figures, including the Lord Mayor of Bristol and the Lady Mayoress. With top acts to follow, including Tessie O’Shea.

Sadly, the Bedminster Hippodrome faced a devastating blow during the Second World War, falling victim to a tragic bombing on January 3, 1941. The attack destroyed the roof and left the auditorium in ruins. Despite efforts, the theatre was never restored, and its doors remained closed forever.

The theatre’s rich history stands as a testament to Bristol’s entertainment heritage and Horace Goldin’s mesmerising performances added an enduring touch of pure magic to its legacy.

So take a stroll down East Street and let your imagination transport you back to the glitz and glamour of the Bedminster Hippodrome. While the theatre’s curtain may have fallen long ago, its story and memories live on, reminding us of the joy and wonder that entertainment has brought us throughout the ages.

Councillor resigns from planning committee after Broadwalk u-turn

A councillor has dramatically resigned from a Bristol planning committee in protest against a shock u-turn on demolishing a shopping centre. Green Councillor Ed Plowden, representing Windmill Hill, said local people had “lost confidence” in the committee after the recent u-turn.

In a written statement, Cllr Plowden said: “This is because of the misleading and dishonourable actions of certain members of the committee before, during and after our last meeting, which mean that the people whom I am proud to represent and live among no longer have trust or confidence in this committee, and indeed the wider context within which it operates.

“I therefore believe that this committee has brought the council into disrepute. I have been very proud to be part of the committee and help to shape the future of Bristol, and despite being very disappointed by some of its decisions, for example over the Mead Street decision, I have been meticulously careful not to do anything to call into question its authority or legitimacy.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter

The Hippodrome will be brought back to life from September 28-30 with ‘Welcome to the Hippodrome’ at acta Theatre on Gladstone Street. This production takes spectators on a delightful journey

through time, shedding light on the rich history of this iconic venue. It was a place of laughter, song and dance - a haven where worries were forgotten and spirits were lifted. Visit acta-bristol. com for tickets.

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Illustration of the Bedminster Hippodrome. Supplied by acta Theatre

The Poppy Appeal needs more volunteers

The Poppy Appeal in Bristol and South Gloucestershire locally normally raises over half a million pounds a year, but they need more people to volunteer to help organise collections at venues such as supermarkets.

Last year, the Poppy Appeal lost out on collecting around £70,000 due to the shortage of volunteers/ organisers, and they are in desperate need of volunteers to ensure they can help veterans and serving armed forces personnel whenever they need support.

Poppy Appeal Organisers get full support and training from the Royal British Legion, and an opportunity to work beside

other passionate and committed volunteers. You do not need to be a member of the Royal British Legion or a member of the military to be a volunteer.

Would you like to volunteer as

BS3 Helping Others

BS3 Helping Others is for people who wish to volunteer in their community. At the meetings, speakers are welcomed to talk about their latest projects and the help they might need. At their September meetings, they will also be launching their Directory of Volunteering Opportunities, which contains information about more than 50 groups.

your local Poppy Appeal Organiser or even just a couple of hours collecting in a supermarket? Please contact Louise on 07884869597 or email LDolen@britishlegion.org.uk

The next meetings are on Monday September 4 at 6.30pm and Tuesday September 5 at 10.30am, both in the Snug at the Tobacco Factory Café/ Bar. On Monday, a speaker from Changes Bristol, a peer support mental health charity, will be talking about opportunities to volunteer with them. For more information, please contact bs3helpingothers@gmail.com

n SPINAL COLUMN Finding moments of bliss

There’s a saying that life’s most beautiful moments are often its messiest. In our home, this is not just a poetic sentiment, it’s a daily reality. With three young children, the youngest of whom is set to turn one next week, and a new English Bull Terrier puppy, quiet moments are few and far between. Just when we tuck the kids into bed and believe peace has been restored, our spirited puppy decides it’s her moment to shine.

As the day’s chaos winds down for the children, it revs up for our four-legged friend, who seems to think that our relaxation time is an invitation for her to start playtime.

It’s a dance of constant movement, unpredictable rhythms, and no short supply of laughter and surprise. Take, for instance, the game of ‘spot the baby’s toy’. It used to be simple, but now it’s more like finding needles in haystacks

or, more accurately, toys in the puppy’s mouth.

Each night, as we clear up the remnants of playtime –both from children and puppy – I find myself pausing amidst the chaos to reflect. Our house has transformed into a lively hub of activity, with

nighttime concerts staring at least one restless child or a playful pup. With all this ruckus, I sometimes jest, “Have we bitten off more than we can chew?” (pun very much intended).

However, amid this mayhem, there’s a quiet force that

helps me stay grounded: my regular chiropractic care. Not sought because of pain, but as a means to better adapt to the bustling environment around me. Chiropractic care is my haven, ensuring my nervous system functions optimally. This heightened state of adaptation doesn’t just benefit me. It cascades into my professional life, allowing me to better serve my patients, and most importantly, enhances my role as a husband and father.

In this whirlwind of nappies, dog toys, and endless joy, I truly believe that without the balancing touch of chiropractic care, I might be swept away. Instead, I find resilience, laughter, and gratitude in every chaotic, beautiful moment.

Charles Herbert Kasa Chiro 0117 370 2680

n PILATES

Sona Pilates with Leanne Copley

As we begin the shift in the seasons and return to our schedules in September, it can often feel overwhelming and the carefree summer a distant memory. We have been here before and survived but surely with every revolution around the sun we should be learning, right?

I know for me this frazzled feeling is a lot different to the one I had as a school teacher, in fact I am 80% of the time excited about all the things I need to do. But we don’t have to stick to this manic pace of these past few weeks, missing Pilates classes or not even moving at all, eating late or juggling commitments. We can make decisions for the better, ask for help and support, set some new boundaries and tame those frazzled feelings.

Like each new school year comes our opportunity to ensure we have all the kit we need, pencil cases full. And take stock this month of how we want to move forward. Prioritising the commitments that really benefit you and continue to take those steps towards long-lasting physical and emotional wellbeing.

Renew your promise to your health this coming Autumn and come and check out our open day on Sunday, September 17. Keep an eye on www.sonapilates.com for details.

It’s official! Arnos Vale Cemetery is the most popular free attraction in the South West. New data from VisitEngland has revealed that last year more than half a million people visited the cemetery.

Ellie Collier, Chief Executive of Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, said: “We’re delighted that over half a million people chose to visit us last year. This wouldn’t be possible without the support we receive from your readers. Although we work hard to be a sustainable enterprise, there’s a shortfall each year. We urge people to join us in making it possible for the next half a million to visit us. We’re very grateful to everyone who supports us.”

And news just out is that the popular cemetery is a Green Flag Award Community Winner for 2023. The judge said: “Arnos Vale Cemetery has something for everybody, from an active cemetery, sympathetic to the grief of loved ones, to a celebration of wildlife and biodiversity, to a location for weddings and positive events involving the whole community.”

Nigel Dyke, Chair of Trustees at Arnos Vale, added: “This award means we’re recognised as a welcoming and well-maintained place, relevant to the community, with strong environmental management and wellbeing initiatives. But keeping this special place so well looked after for the community comes at a huge cost. Your donation can make a big difference in helping this continue.”

Arnos Vale Cemetery named as the most popular free attraction in the South West

South Bristol’s beautiful Arnos Vale is a hit with visitors to the area

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams

Thank you for making me a proud ‘Bemmy’ pharmacist

Ten years ago this month I took over as the lead pharmacist at Bedminster Pharmacy. Firstly, I must apologise – in all this time, we have failed to match the generosity, friendship and trust invested in me and our small team by our community. We have tried, but every day we are floored by the ways this wonderful community surprises us. Thank you, everyone: you have made each day fulfilling and rewarding with your kindness and, of course, constant digs at me. Your humour is priceless.

Back in 2013, I was sporting my afro, OK maybe not even that, but I really thought I knew how to serve the mission of the NHS in our BS3 community. I have since been educated and continue to learn – the NHS is the community it cares for, a partnership, never a dependency.

Our now over 30 National Awards on the unprecedented journey of becoming the UK’s most decorated pharmacy team, the stories of our community, those partnerships and social action, trying to create a healthier community get told over and over. Thank you for making room for us in your hearts and life.

As I reflect, from wearing my purple female wig (Pancreatic Cancer campaign) to putting a toilet

bowl in Wilko (Bowel Cancer Campaign) and doing blood pressure case finding checks in the pub, I have lived the ‘Bemmy Pharmacy Life’ to the envy of my colleagues and peers. Three lessons that have profoundly impacted all of us in Bedminster Pharmacy are:

1. Embracing shared humanity instils a sense of vulnerability and empathy. We cry and laugh and get really frustrated for – but also fight hard for – our patients and community. We always bring our hearts to work at a risk, but thanks to your continual generous friendships, we never fall.

2. To stop people ‘falling’, at some point, you either fix the broken bridge, build a new bridge or find a safer route. Everyone wants to live life in the fullness of health and wellness. Going out from our pharmacy and partnering with our community in various social action projects has helped us understand why people fall and how to help stop this.

3. Be a relentless force for good. Community pharmacy is the most accessible part of the NHS. My pain at losing local pharmacies is the loss of colleagues to share the responsibility of picking up symptoms for earlier cancer diagnosis, undetected high blood pressure, supporting isolation and

loneliness, campaigning for the abolition of NHS prescription charges and enshrining dignity in all healthcare interactions.

We have not succeeded in changing things yet. Still, the NHS is using our work to inform evidence for direct referrals for cancer investigations from community pharmacies, and Lancet, the International Health Journal in its 200-year celebratory programme, showcased our ‘Pulse in the Pub’ as its only UK example of innovation that delivers Universal Health Coverage gives hope.

Sadly, our journey over the last 10 years also finds the NHS struggling, but please be assured we will never fail you. Thank you for all the ways you support us as we care for you. I will forever be proud to be a Bemmy pharmacist and grateful you accepted our team as part of this community. No ifs, no buts.

Gaol Ferry Bridge is set to reopen

Construction work to restore Gaol Ferry Bridge is nearing completion and the council will reopen the refurbished footbridge at 5pm on Friday, September 8.

Councillor Don Alexander, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “I am delighted that we will be reopening Gaol Ferry Bridge.

“I know everyone who uses this popular foot and cycle bridge will be pleased to have a date when they will be able to start using it again. Thank you again to local residents and businesses for their patience as Griffiths, our contractor, completed the first major repair programme in the bridge’s almost 100-year history.

“It’s been a challenging project as the bridge was in an even worse condition than anticipated, with paper-thin steelwork in some places. On top of the extended repairs required, the scaffolding plan had to be redesigned so as not to risk putting too much weight on the old, lightweight bridge.”

The £1.5 million works have included replacing the structural steelwork and rotten timbers, repairing the steel lattice work and some stonework, and repainting it. Saturday working was also introduced to make sure that the repairs kept on track as much as possible.

The pedestrian crossing next to Gaol Ferry Bridge on Cumberland Road by Wapping Wharf and Gaol Ferry Steps will be refurbished ahead of the bridge reopening. The progress of these crossing works will not have any impact on the date when the bridge will reopen.

Signage will also be installed at Gaol Ferry Bridge, and at Vauxhall and Bedminster bridges, which are along the diversion routes, to remind people of the date that the bridge will reopen.

Gaol Ferry Bridge is the first of six bridges to be restored in the council’s ambitious £16 million rolling programme of repairs. The remaining bridges include Sparke Evans Park Bridge, Vauxhall Bridge, Langton Street Bridge (also known as Banana Bridge) and the twin bridges of Bedminster Bridge and Bath Bridge.

Councillor Don Alexander continued: “Over the years, Gaol Ferry Bridge, along with many other bridges and structures in Bristol, have been neglected. Having inherited a legacy of underinvestment, I am proud we have put together a multi-million pound investment programme to make sure Bristol’s bridges are safe for future generations.”

Open events for Cathedral Schools Trust secondary schools

Please

St Katherine’s School, Ham Green, North Somerset, BS20 0HU

Thursday 28th September

stkaths.org.uk/admissions

Trinity Academy, Romney Avenue, Bristol, BS7 9BY

Tuesday 19th September

Thursday 28th September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 30th September

trinityacademybristol.org/admissions

Bristol Cathedral Choir School, College Square, Bristol, BS1 5TS

Thursday 14th September

Thursday 21st September

Music Aptitude Test

Saturday 30th September

bccs.bristol.sch.uk/admissions

After a long wait, Gaol Ferry Bridge will once again be open

n MEET THE HEAD

St Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years.

Year 7 students from over 40 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

ST Katherine’s is a thriving, diverse school community that has educated students from all over Bristol for many years. Year 7 students from over 50 primary schools are joining us this September. So why do so many parents and carers choose St Katherine’s for their child’s secondary education?

I believe it’s because our approach is based on the principle that, as individuals, we all perform at our best when we feel confident, secure and valued.

Message from Justin Humphreys, Head of St Katherine’s School

I believe it’s because our approach is based on the principle that, as individuals, we all perform at our best when we feel confident, secure and valued.

Along with my committed team, I am passionate about giving every student an environment where they feel safe and happy so they can achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams. We do this through our exceptional pastoral care and absolute commitment to wellbeing which makes St Katherine’s such a happy, thriving school.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is well known and cared for as an individual.

Along with my committed team, I am passionate about giving every student an environment where they feel safe and happy so they can achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams. We do this through our exceptional pastoral care and absolute commitment to wellbeing which makes St Katherine’s such a happy, thriving school.

We take full advantage of St Katherine’s size to create a friendly atmosphere where every child is well known and cared for as an individual.

Like our students, our staff are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all.

Like our students, our staff are energetic, passionate and committed professionals, who stretch and challenge our young people both inside and outside of the classroom - we all learn something new everyday and it enriches and improves us all.

Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people. Our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular offer shaped around SKYwards - St

Besides our track record of academic success - our GCSE, A level and vocational subject results continue to reach new heights, securing pathways for all our young people - our curriculum is broad, including our co-curricular

Katherine’s Youth Award designed to ensure everyone enjoys new experiences, helping them develop into young adults equipped socially and academically to take on the opportunities and challenges of life.

offer shaped around SKYwards - St Katherine’s Youth Award designed to ensure everyone enjoys new experiences, helping them develop into young adults equipped socially and academically to take on the opportunities and challenges of life.

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun!

Above all, a St Katherine’s education is busy, inspiring, ambitious and great fun!

Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it for yourself. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

Come along to our September open evening (details below) to experience it for yourself. You and your child are guaranteed a warm welcome.

OFFICE

Parking up the wrong tree

Bristol’s transport challenges require bold action. Big ideas. We need to continue to transform the way that Bristolians can move around our city, by giving people an affordable, reliable alternative to their cars.

Portway Park & Ride, Bristol’s first new railway station in almost a century, opened recently. We’re already on site at Ashley Down station and pushing forward new stations at Henbury, Filton North, Ashton Gate, and St Annes.

This major investment in rail is important, not least as we continue to tackle the climate crisis. But, compared to similarly sized cities, all those stations opening would still fall short of what Bristolians need and deserve: a mass transit system fully segregated from other modes of transport to ensure its reliability. As two fully published feasibility studies set out, this is both deliverable and affordable in Bristol.

As with all modern, major projects, this would require a mix of funding sources including from national

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government. But the productivity pay offs would be enormous, and the system would be profitable for operators and investors. There has been some sensationalist coverage of a flawed, leaked report that suggests that the cost of a mass transit system for our city region is £19 billion. In reality, a properly costed plan, where underground is only used in densely populated areas suggests more like £7 billion.

When we looked at investing in a mass transit scheme, we identified one potential income stream as a Workplace Parking Levy. This would essentially serve as a surcharge on all drivers parking centrally while they’re at work. It has existed in Nottingham since 2011/12, where the money goes into their tram system (delivered at a time when Bristol could have had one too, had local leaders not fallen out in our region around the millennium).

Some politicians continue to put the cart before the horse, just as they did when they called for

Planning your dream holiday with The Tim Potter Travel Co

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The Tim Potter Travel Co, a local and fully independent travel agency. Their new shop opened on 26 August, located on Sandy Park Road, Brislington.

Tim Potter

The owner Tim has plenty of experience in travel having previously work for BA, EasyJet, Jet2 and TUI. By working with over 100 different travel providers they can offer great impartial advice, a fantastic range of destinations and bespoke service. The Tim Potter Travel Co is a member of ABTA and when package holidays include a flight these are also protected by ATOL. For more information please ring 0117 4038651 or email travelco@ tim-potter.co.uk

the whole city to be covered by a charging Clean Air Zone before our administration had secured tens of millions of pounds of support for people. They were wrong then and they are wrong now.

With high inflation during a national cost of living crisis, now is not the time to create more costs for people. Others will say that today is an ideal moment to hit teachers, nurses, and other Bristolians parking at schools, hospitals, and other workplaces in central Bristol for hundreds of pounds,. They are wrong. Bristol has, in recent years, like the rest of the world, seen major changes in working patterns during and following the pandemic. These patterns will also have been impacted by the introduction of the Clean Air Zone, for which our administration recently secured another £11 million to help people and businesses to upgrade to compliant vehicles.

A study was done into the idea of a Workplace Parking Levy,

which is lacking any modelling incorporating those major factors for its potential effectiveness. The council considers it, therefore, to be just a draft – a position endorsed by the Information Commissioner when we declined to publish it while it is still yet to be completed. This position has unfortunately since been overturned on a technical argument of law and so we are today publishing that draft report. It remains incomplete and, with the current stalling of the funding and ambition to take a mass transit system forward, we have no plans to introduce this charge.

Marvin Rees shares his views with the Voice

n NEWS FROM BS3 COMMUNITY – THE CHARITY THAT RUNS THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE AND THE CHESSEL CENTRE LGBT+ Fab Cafe

For over 50s, this happens every Tuesday in the snug at the Tobacco Factory. From September the meeting time is changing to 10am-12pm. New members are very welcome, expect lively discussions and chat and occasional guest speakers. Recent speakers include OutStories Bristol and Vitaminds. If you’d like to find out more about this friendly group, please contact: leanne.purton@ bs3community.org.uk or just come along.

The Community Harmony singing workshop

Which was facilitated by the wonderful Kate Fletcher, leader of Break Out Voices Choir and supported by BS3 Community, had a great turnout, and was enjoyed by all. We hope to work more with Kate in the future, so

keep your eyes peeled on our social media.

The weekly Art & Craft

Group for over 55s that takes place in Bedminster, was thrilled to receive funding via the Safer Streets Bedminster. New members are welcome to come along every Thursday between 2-4pm. The group is suitable for all abilities, so come and enjoy relaxed arts and crafts in a friendly environment. The group has a limited capacity, so if you’d like to find out more, please contact Leanne on 0117 9231039 or leanne.purton@ bs3community.org.uk

Monday Club for older people

Our Monday Club is a weekly social club for older people, whichh is based in The School Room Cafe at the Southville

Centre on Beauley Road. The group meets on Mondays from 11.30am-2pm and there is always a friendly welcome, a hot lunch, tea/coffee and lots of chatting. If you or someone you

know is feeling isolated, the club is a great way to connect with people. Get in touch to book your place. Email: steph.atkins@ bs3community.org.uk

We have a laugh together

Macmillan Buddies Story: Linny (volunteer) and Jan

When Macmillan buddy volunteer, Linny Josham, first met her buddy, Jan, they hit it off. “Within five minutes of being introduced and chatting, I felt at ease,” says Linny.

“The best thing about being a Macmillan buddy is that once a week for a couple of hours I chat with, laugh with, and share experiences of life with a brave, determined woman. What’s not to like?”

Laughter is at the root of why Linny’s support has been such a success.

“We laugh so much and discuss so many topics. She’s a good person. She doesn’t give unwanted sympathy. She’s just very supportive,” says Jan. They even laughed when Jan told Linny about a near miss – her friend accidently let her roll down the hill in her wheelchair when bringing her home from hospital!

Jan lives in Lawrence Weston. She was referred to the Macmillan Buddies service after visiting the Macmillan NGS Wellbeing Centre at Southmead Hospital. She was first diagnosed with Lymphoma six years ago and then early in 2023, she found herself admitted to hospital with a tumour in her lung.

She has been supported weekly by her Macmillan buddy volunteer, Linny from Totterdown. While Jan’s been going through her chemotherapy, Linny’s weekly visits at home have been invaluable. Macmillan Buddy volunteers offer a listening ear and support people living with cancer at what is a really challenging time.

“Giving time brings so many rewards,” says Linny. “I get to spend a few hours a week with someone who is positive and resilient in everything she faces.”

Jan’s also had a positive experience: “I really have benefited so much from Linny’s visits. I feel she has supported me so much. Her kindness and care is totally appreciated.”

Macmillan is looking for more volunteers to join Linny and our Bristol team. If you’re a good listener and clear communicator we’d love to hear from you. To find out more visit https://www.macmillan.org.uk/volunteering/macmillan-buddies or call 07866 202537

Step & Stone needs your help

Step and Stone is a social enterprise, working with adults with a range of learning differences, but they urgently need new volunteers. They produce award-winning lavosh and biscotti in their bakery at The Park Centre, Knowle.

Open Monday to Friday from

9.30am to 3pm, they are looking for friendly volunteers who would like to make a difference in supporting Step & Stone’s trainees. They currently have spaces on a Wednesday and Friday.

In return for your time, Step & Stone offer: Level 1 Food Safety &

Safeguarding Training; Flexible working (minimum two hours); and traveling expenses and free parking.

Experience is useful but a belief in inclusion and a positive attitude is all you need (plus a DBS check). Visit the website for more info: stepandstone.co

Mansion future to be discussed

The once-stunning Ashton Court Mansion is in a terrible state of decline, with twothirds of the Grade-I listed building standing derelict.

The property is owned by Bristol City Council, who have agreed to a request from Bristol Civic Society to enter into a year of discussions concerning the future of the property. At the moment, repairs are estimated to cost £20m.

In May, Bristol Civic Society made an offer to Bristol City Council to lead a year of debate and conversations about the Manion in order to “explore all opportunities” by hosting events on the topic.

The property has been rapidly declining for the past 50 years.

Pick

Matthew wins the Golden Trowel!

Southville resident Matthew Symonds has been announced as the winner of the B&Q Gardener of the Year competition.

Although his garden is only 21ft x 18ft (6.5m x 5.6m), Matthew has utilised every inch. There’s a sunny raised deck with glass balustrade to sit and view the garden from above and a shaded seating area for relaxing or alfresco suppers. A mini greenhouse for growing seedlings and tomatoes. A rectangular pond with a gentle waterfall provides calming sound and a haven for wildlife. There’s a smart bike store and lots of plants.

Every space is filled with plants including ferns, hydrangeas, anemone, hostas, hazel, bamboo, and roses. Wall topped planters squeeze in more planting space, and an environmentally friendly air-source heat pump is disguised beneath a shelf of potted plants. Even the water butt has a duel use hosting a potted water loving arum Lilly.

Matthew shares his top tips for making the most of a small garden.

Think big! It’s counter intuitive, but finding space for a big feature plant of medium sized tree can help give the illusion of making

your garden feel bigger. Planting something like a fruit tree can also bring all year round interest with blossom in the spring, fruit in the summer, and autumn leaf colour.

Grow up! Don’t just think about what you can grow on the ground, use walls, fences or structures like an archway to grow climbing plants. There are so many to choose from but roses, clematis or Jasmine will produce wonderful flowers and scent.

Let the wildlife in. The quickest way to bring wildlife into the garden is by introducing water. It doesn’t have to be a big pond, even a glazed plant pot filled with water or a bird bath will attract birds, insects and other wildlife.

Take a seat! Every garden should include a seat or two so that you can enjoy being among your plants. Be warned though, once the gardening bug grabs you, you’ll be constantly spotting gardening jobs you want to, so will find it hard to sit down for long.

Matthew (right) with judge Fred Sirieix, from TV’s ‘First Dates’, and his Golden Trowel award

This month, I wanted to chat about dance. It’s a performance art form that I don’t know much about, other than my unique moves on sticky club dancefloors and my own kitchen discos. But dance has gained a bigger platform in the last few years with ‘Strictly’ on the TV, ballet and dance shows at populist theatres, the emergence of lots of dance-fit classes and of course TikTok.

Everyone loves to dance like there’s nobody watching: it benefits your mind, body, balance and soul, but what about if people are watching what are the benefits and joys of going to see a live dance show?

Watching dance can be a captivating and enriching experience that can tell a story and inspire through movement. The audience can become engrossed, and their moves can evoke strong emotions while also being an escape from reality, and

The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver

it can speak to everyone.

Resident Alexandra Pickford, 75 and a former Royal Ballet Company Member, has created a show called ‘Bluffing your Way in Ballet’: a funny and beautiful journey leading you through the history of Ballet. I spoke to Alex to find out more about her own dance story and a little more about the show.

When did you start professionally dancing?

I first danced professionally at 19 and it was with The Royal Ballet Company.

What’s your favourite dance and why?

I’ve loved dancing Titania in ‘Midsummer’s Night’s Dream’ and the wicked fairy in ‘Sleeping Beauty’. I think ‘Swan Lake’ is the ballet I would have loved to have danced as the principal - the tragic heroine. The Swan Maiden

Open Events:

Senior - 7 October

Sixth Form - 12 October

Junior - 4 November

who will only be released from the spell if someone is faithful to her. In the ballet there is the sorrowing Swan in Acts 1 and 2. In Act 3 she is the Magician’s daughter. A Swan in black who seduces the prince into breaking his promise. They are two fabulous and opposite roles.

How do you think dancing has impacted your life? Dance has opened up the world to me. I’ve travelled, and danced all over Britain, Europe, USA, Australia and China. I think being a dancer allows you to fit into any strata of society. It’s given me confidence: if I don’t know about something, I am not afraid to ask.

Why should people come and see this show?

‘Bluffing Your Way In Ballet’ is an irreverent and witty whizz through the fascinating history of ballet. But it is also my heritage

and history as a dancer and I look forward to sharing my experience. Seizing The Day Company bring ‘Bluffing Your Way In Ballet’ to life in a unique, entertaining and special way. Come and experience the show yourselves at the Tobacco Factory on September 30.

Jacqui Ham actingoutdrama.com

Book your place

Townswomen’s Guild is coming to Totterdown

The Townswomen’s Guild (TG) has its roots in the 19th century suffragist movement and remains one of Britain’s leading women’s groups. It is non-religious and non-political. If you want to make friends and make a difference this group is just for you!

TG members meet regularly, and meetings can be as varied as members wish. Speakers are often invited to the meetings to inspire, educate and entertain. Campaigning has always been at the heart of the TG movement and it remains so today.

National and local issues, especially those that affect women, can be tackled together. The group has a display board in

New drama and acting for club for children

Knowle Library during September, which gives more details of the Townswomen’s Guild, its presence in Knowle today and its future in South Bristol.

There has been a thriving Townswomen’s Guild in Knowle since 1935 and it meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 2pm. As this precludes working women and those with daytime commitments, they have decided to form a new evening guild. The group will meet at 7.30pm at The Parlour, Totterdown Baptist Church BS4 2AX on the first Thursday of the month starting on September 7.

For more information, contact stella-terry@hotmail.co.uk

Acting Out has announced its latest offering: a captivating Screen and Acting Drama Class tailored for children aged 5-11 years. These classes are designed to inspire young minds, nurture creativity, cultivate essential life skills including communication and selfexpression.

The classes will provide an opportunity to explore the realm of drama and acting in front of camera. Led by experienced facilitators and featuring guest professionals, this club aims to be an immersive and transformative experience for budding talents and those wanting to try something new.

Registration is open and classes

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Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers

National education charity, Action Tutoring, works to level the playing field by offering free maths and English tutoring to disadvantaged pupils in Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Are you interested in volunteering, getting more involved in your local community, or doing something a little different with your time? By volunteering as a tutor for just one hour a week at a local school, or online, you can give vital academic support to pupils whose families couldn't otherwise afford it.

It’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your time and no previous teaching or tutoring experience is required. Action Tutoring provide the training and all the resources; volunteers don’t need to plan lessons or be curriculum experts. You are supported every step of the way.

Fill in their short online application form to get started actiontutoring. org.uk

Volunteers provide vital maths and English support

to pupils from lowincome families

start on Monday, September 11 at 4pm at the Southville Centre. Limited spots are available, so secure your child’s place today by emailing enquiries@ actingoutdrama.com

Can you help for one hour a week?

n WILDLIFE Tigers, Footmen and Ermines?

By Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3 Wildlife Group.

Butterflies and moths are among our most treasured wildlife. They are beautiful and also very useful as pollinators of our fruit trees and flowers.

We already know that there are around a dozen core butterfly species in the Greater Bedminster Urban Nature Reserve with perhaps five or six others that appear less frequently. The BS3 Wildlife Group have also been looking out for tiger moths and their close relatives.

There are 32 species of Arctiinae recorded in Britain and 15, at least, have been claimed in South Bristol. The most frequently reported since 2017 are the Dingy Footman, Common Footman, White Ermine, Buff Ermine, Ruby Tiger and Scarlet Tiger and, most frequently claimed in 2023, Jersey Tiger and Cinnabar moths. Both of these can be seen in the daytime.

The black and red Cinnabar is conspicuous for good reasons. Birds recognise it easily and learn that it tastes horrid. Cinnabar caterpillars feed on ragwort which tastes nasty and is usually avoided by other creatures. Yellow and black Cinnabar caterpillars are a very conspicuous warning sign, too.

The Jersey Tiger moth is around from July to September and is a less fussy eater, but still dependent on what we call weeds. These include common nettle, ground ivy, brambles and dandelions. Why not leave a corner of your garden with some of these plants so that we get a good crop of Jersey and other tiger moths in future years? Some local parks are leaving wild patches for the same reason.

Contact BS3 Wildlife Group via mywildbedminster@virginmedia.com

[1] Cinnabar moth caterpillar

[2] Cinnabar Butterfly

[3] Jersey Tiger

n WHAT’S ON

September 7, Tobacco Factory Theatre, ‘Fanboy’. This is a love-hate letter to pop culture and nostalgia. Award-winning writer-performer Joe Sellman-Leava (Fringe First, Labels) explores our relationship to our past and future selves, and asks why his generation is so obsessed with its childhood.

September 11-16, Bristol Hippodrome, ‘Greatest Days’. Relight Your Fire with this sensational new production of Take That’s smash hit musical ‘Greatest Days’. The musical follows five boy band obsessed best friends in the 1990s, who reunite over 20 years later to see their heartthrobs one last time in what could be the greatest day of their lives.

September 13-30, Bristol Old Vic, ‘Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder’. BFFs Kathy and Stella host Hull’s least successful true-crime podcast. When their favourite author is killed, they are thrust into a thrilling whodunnit of their own. Can they crack the case (and become global podcast superstars) before the killer strikes again…? A hilarious murder mystery musical from the team behind ‘Fleabag’, ‘Baby Reindeer’

and ‘A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad)’.

September 15, Tobacco Factory, ‘Bingo at Tiffany’s with Audrey Heartburn’. Join award-winning character comedian Tracey Collins as she hosts Bingo at Tiffany’s with Audrey Heartburn. Laugh, dance and play to win life-changing prizes as Audrey spins her cage of bingo balls and shakes her musical maracas to an outrageous party soundtrack.

September 16, Victoria Park, Victoria Park Festival. Come out to support and enjoy your local park for the annual VPAG festival. There will be stalls, a beer tent and a main stage with loads of great local acts to entertain you throughout the day. A bouncy castle, dog show, children’s entertainment, raffle, fun run and much more.

September 21, Tobacco Factory, Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho. On the eve of the vote on Section 28, Maggie gets lost in Soho and accidentally becomes a cabaret superstar. Will she change her mind about the homophobic

bill before it’s too late…? A big gay odyssey about LGBT rights, the 80s, and disco.

Totterdown Zumba

Dance yourself fit & happy at Totterdown Zumba! Mondays 6.30-7.30pm in the Salt Cellar at Totterdown Baptist Church (use the Cemetery Road entrance). £6 per class. No dance ability required - all welcome. I guarantee you will leave with a smile on your face! For more info please contact Emily on e_downes@ hotmail.co.uk

September 23, Millennium Square, Mental Health Mates Walk. Joining up with dozens of walks across the UK, Mental Health Mates Bristol will be heading out at 11am to remind all of those in the community of the power of movement and connection to help us feel better. Mental Health Mates is a UK-wide peer support network offering free-of-charge, community-based walks that allow people to meet and speak without fear of judgement.

September 28-30, acta Theatre, ‘Welcome to the Hippodrome’. Supported by Historic England and The Ragdoll Foundation, prepare to

be transported back to Bedminster 1911 as Pick’N’Mix Theatre proudly presents ‘Welcome to the Hippodrome’ The historical and long-lost Bedminster Hippodrome will come alive once more to delight audiences with its vibrant past and heart-warming tales. Step into the enchanting world of the treasured Bedminster Hippodrome, a cherished local music hall that once stood proudly on East Street. This captivating theatrical production takes spectators on a delightful journey through time, shedding light on the rich history of this iconic venue.

n WICKED WITCH In witch I take control

Both my parents have been diagnosed with Dementia, Mum is a happy demented and Dad is a not quite so demented angry one, we live with it and they are struggling along nicely with a bit of help/ hindrance from me, my brother and a girl called Chelsea. Recently, I realised that Mum’s teeth needed attention. She’d not been taking her dentures out for cleaning; Dad had forgotten to remind her and now they were stuck. I paid for her to see a dentist privately, it’s the only way these days. The dentist unhooked her false teeth with a glorious sucking pop. The plate was black. I felt awful and slightly sick. Bad daughter. After examining Mum’s gums and her three remaining teeth, the dentist declared that the false teeth were not aiding Mum’s eating and she’d probably manage without them. One less thing for Dad to deal with. Luckily the remaining teeth are at the front so her face does not

cave in. Small blessings.

A week later I was travelling to our caravan by the sea, it was late so I was not planning on seeing my parents en-route but I called to see how they were. Dad answered the phone and started swearing. This was bad. The TV was messed up. “It’s the twins” he ranted. “They’ve done something to it”. The twins are 16-year-old grandchildren who did use the telly for their PlayStation about five years ago but they are teenagers now and rarely visit. Before I could speak, the phone was slammed down. I diverted my journey, stomach full of dread.

I entered the flat and an atmosphere crackling with frustrated rage. The TV was a black

screen, with ‘no signal’ floating around jauntily. Mum was happily watching it. I took control, well I took the controls and pressed random buttons instantly making things worse, then called my brother. Modern televisions are not simple like the good old 80s. Four channels, no remote, the national anthem at midnight and then nothing.

Dad has a smart TV, a BT box and a soundbar. Hundreds of channels and three remote controls. He was pacing around the room cussing. My brother was giving me instructions and miraculously a picture appeared, but with subtitles. More swearing and squinting at the controls before these were finally eradicated. Dad made himself a

large gin and tonic and tried to calm down.

“People are always saying to me, you are doing such a good job and coping so well. I am not, I am not coping at all.” Dad fumed, taking a large swig of gin. “What can we do to help you Dad?” I asked. “Nothing” he replied tersely “absolutely nothing”. We all sat looking at the telly in an uncomfortable silence broken only by the chinking ice cubes as Dad contemplated his life. I looked at the clock, it was getting late so I stood up and kissed my lovely oblivious Mum and said to Dad “I think you are doing an amazing job Dad and coping really well”. I sprinted out the door before he could throw the remaining gin at me.

n PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Land Off Sheene Way Sheene Road Bedminster Bristol BS3 4EG. Application No. 23/02637/F. Proposal: Demolition of existing structures and redevelopment of the site comprising 219 residential dwellings and ancillary residential uses, including access and vehicular parking, public realm works and landscaping, cycle parking, ancillary plant and servicing and other associated works.

1 Gerald Road Bristol BS3 2DN. Application No. 23/02648/H. Proposal: Two storey side and rear extension, air source heat pump and photovoltaic (PV) panels.

10 Jasper Street Bristol BS3 3DU. Application No. 23/02866/H. Proposal: Single storey rear extension and conversion of loft to habitable space, including construction of rear dormer.

Arnos Manor Hotel 470 Bath Road Brislington Bristol BS4 3HQ. Application No. 23/02624/F. Proposal: Installation of

Photovoltaic panels to various roofs within the hotel. Also: Application No. 23/02625/LA. Proposal: Installation of Photovoltaic panels to various roofs within the hotel.

28 Gotley Road Bristol BS4 5AS. Application No. 23/02867/ CE. Proposal: Certificate of existing use for change of use from C3 to C4 (Schedule 2 Part 3 Class L), with associated works, including enlargement and alterations to the roof, works to an existing soil and vent pipe, and enlargement/ extension to the dwellinghouse (Schedule 2 Part 1 Classes B, C, G, and A).

The Whitehouse Centre Fulford Road Hartcliffe Bristol BS13 9PB. Application No. 23/02229/COND. Proposal: Application for approval of details reserved by condition 14 of permission 20/01212/FB Demolition of former Whitehouse Pupil Referral Unit buildings. Construction of new clubhouse facility. Provision of two full sized pitches and one training pitch.

2 Queensdale Crescent Bristol BS4 2TN. Application No. 23/02817/H. Proposal: Proposed single storey side extension.

105 Broad Walk Bristol BS4 2RT. Application No. 23/02823/ HX. Proposal: Notification of Prior Approval for the erection of a single storey rear extension that would exceed beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4 metres, have a maximum height of 3.3 metres, and have eaves that are 2.5 metres high.

11 Beaconsfield Road Knowle Bristol BS4 2JE. Application No. 23/02841/H. Proposal: Single storey rear extension and a rear dormer for a loft conversion.

13 Stoneleigh Crescent Bristol BS4 2RF. Application No. 23/02848/H . Proposal Single storey rear extension.

12 Rookery Road Bristol BS4 2DS. Application No. 23/02851/H. Proposal: Proposed rear extension at ground floor level, including a basement, with associated access steps.

71 Leighton Road Southville Bristol BS3 1NR. Application No. 23/02832/H. Proposal: Single storey side infill & rear extension to mid terrace dwelling.

1 Somerset Terrace Bristol BS3 4LL. Application No. 23/02604/ CP. Proposal: Application for a Lawful Development Certificate for a proposed development for infill of existing butterfly roof form.

6 Berrow Walk Bristol BS3 5ES. Application No. 23/02842/ HX. Proposa:l Notification of Prior Approval for the erection of a single storey rear extension that would exceed beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4 metres, have a maximum height of 3.6 metres, and have eaves that are 2.5 metres high.

Please note: the status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at bristol.gov.uk

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

WEST’S E-SCOOTERS GET A GREEN MAKEOVER!

E-scooters have become a familiar sight on streets across the West of England with over ten million journeys made since 2020.

But it will be a new era come the Winter when the region’s e-scooters change colour - from coral to green - and are branded WESTscoot. The Mayoral Combined Authority has negotiated a brand-new contract where alongside 4,000 e-scooters, there will, for the first time, be 1,500 e-bikes and 20 e-cargo bikes. Plus there will be new parking racks and plans to address residents’ safety concerns. The deal will bring an estimated £9.7 million to the Mayoral Combined Authority over four years to be reinvested in improving transport for local people.

Passengers across South Bristol are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Mayor Dan Norris said: “I hope WESTscoot will build on the successes of e-scooters in our region, but also start to address the concerns I hear from residents over anti-social riding and dangerous e-scooter parking. These bright green electric e-vehicles are an important part of our net- zero ambitions.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said: “I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

MORE BUS DRIVERS NEEDED!

Could you be a real community hero? After all that’s what bus drivers are. You take kids to school, nurses to the hospital, office workers into town and elderly folk to the shops. You do it with a smile. You reduce carbon emissions. And you keep our communities working. No wonder bus drivers are the most thanked profession! Cheers Drive!

But we need many, many more drivers to add to the 150 drivers who have gone through the training necessary and qualified since the beginning of the year.

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR

DAN NORRIS

New recruits have come from unexpected places, including a local student, Callum, who is working as a driver part-time while completing his studies.

For any Voice readers who might fancy a career change, please to go to www.driveandthrive.co.uk to find out more about becoming a community hero today.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

goodemploymentcharter.co.uk

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses

GREAT AVON WOOD

Winnie-The-Pooh sized woodland comes to West!

Metro Mayor Dan Norris planted the first tree in the brandnew Great Avon Wood.

MAYOR NORRIS WISHES RESIDENTS MANY HAPPY RETURNS AND SINGLES

It’s the biggest new forest ever in the region, all made possible thanks to a bumper £700,000 cash injection from the Mayoral Combined Authority.

At over 100 acres it’s even bigger than Winnie the Pooh’s wood!

Over the next three years, volunteers will help to plant 40,000 trees over three linked areas, which together will form Great Avon Wood.

Dan Norris said: “More trees please! The West of England will need more woodland areas and green spaces as we aim to reach our ambitious net-zero by 2030 targets locally.

“I’m proud a bumper cash injection from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has helped set the stage for this 100-plus acres of lush woodland which I know so many people in our region are looking forward to exploring and enjoying. I’m proud to back those tree-mendous tree-planting projects which will really make our amazing region an even happier, healthier and more beautiful place to call home”.

Passengers across South Bristol are enjoying free bus rides throughout the month of their birthday as part of a major initiative designed to change the way people travel.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says that he hopes Birthday Buses will help residents during the frightening cost-of-living crisis, and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets. With Birthday Buses, every resident in the West of England can make unlimited journeys, at any time, across 350 square miles, throughout the month of their birthday.

We caught up with Helen Jones, whose birthday was on 10 August. She said: “I normally drive to and from work but during August it has been great taking the opportunity to

leave my car at home and trial a month walking into work, and then using my Birthday Bus pass to get the bus home. It’s helped my health and fitness by upping my daily step count and done some good for the environment and saved me money on petrol too.”

BE A COMMUNITY HERO. BECOME A BUS DRIVER

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “It is great to give people a birthday gift but this is a serious plan. I am determined to help people make new habits. I hope that over the course of the month, people grow to like, and maybe even love, travelling by bus and so switch long term.”

This is important as while the majority of people who used buses pre-pandemic are doing so again they are making fewer journeys. It is therefore vital to attract new passengers to use the bus to build a thriving network.

Funding for the scheme comes from the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan. The West of England Mayoral Authority secured the second

VIEW FROM WEST OF ENGLAND MAYOR

DAN NORRIS

There are two vital components to improve buses. One: new bus drivers - to tackle the severe national driver shortage impacting locally so we can run more services. Two: new passengers - to grow ticket income so bus companies want to run routes and taxpayer subsidies decrease. That in turn means fewer traffic jams and helps towards our ambitious net-zero targets.

highest settlement per head nationwide from Government of this fund.

Worked up in close cooperation with local bus companies the phased nature of the Birthday Buses means that over crowding concerns are minimised.

Voice readers can apply for their free Birthday Bus month pass at www.birthdaybus.co.uk.

Mayor Dan Norris helps to plant the first tree in Great Avon Wood

Mayor Dan Norris

Helen Jones

Metro Mayor Dan Norris announcing Birthday Buses