southbristolvoice
‘King of Knowle West’ tributes
Tributes paid to ‘king of Knowle West’ Jeff Lovell, former Bristol lord mayor and firefighter
COUNCILLORS have paid tribute to the “king of Knowle West” Jeff Lovell at a full council meeting on January 14. The former lord mayor and firefighter died last November aged 72. He served as a Labour councillor for Filwood, and lord mayor of Bristol City Council in 2016.
Mr Lovell who began his career at Bedminster Fire Station in 1974, rose through the ranks of Avon Fire Brigade over three decades of service. He retired in 2005 and then sat as a councillor on the Avon Fire Authority for many years.
He was first elected as a councillor in 2007, and was also cabinet member for social care during his time at the council, before standing down in 2021.
Green Councillor Tony Dyer, leader of the council, said: “He was a fantastic guy, the king of Knowle West. I’m a Hartcliffe boy myself. You can knock on every single door in Knowle West and Hartcliffe and you won’t find someone who has a bad word to say about Jeff Lovell. He was that unique thing: hard-
working, conscientious, honest, transparent and funny.
“Nobody described him as a politician, because he wasn’t a politician. He didn’t get involved in party politics stuff. What Jeff wanted to do was serve his community; his devotion to his community stands out.
“When I first came into the council, I was very nervous, as a working-class kid with a speech impediment. People like Jeff give encouragement to people like me, Kerry and Kirsty [Bailes and Tait, both councillors for Hartcliffe and Withywood], to put ourselves forward.
“Because once you see somebody else doing it, and doing it so well, you start to think ‘maybe my Bristolian accent isn’t that bad; maybe people aren’t going to take the mickey of me and not listen to me’.
“I already miss Jeff – he was the epitome of a nice guy, and I’m sure his family misses him so much more than I do.”
In his first year as a firefighter, Mr Lovell attended the IRA bombing of Park Street, which he later described as “quite an awakening for a young laddie”. He later worked as an investigative photographer, capturing the aftermath of fires. A
funeral was held on December 17 at the South Bristol Crematorium, followed by a wake at the Folk House in Whitchurch.
Labour Cllr Paul Goggin, another former lord mayor, said: “There’s two words that come to mind when I think of Jeff: love and pride. He was immensely proud of his fire service career, his time as a councillor, and especially his time as lord mayor. In fact, he was buried in his robes, so proud he was that a working class Wester could become Bristol’s first citizen.
“Jeff loved the fire service, he loved the Labour Party, he loved his service to the city, he loved
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his fishing, he loved his mates, he loved being lord mayor, he loved his Folk House. But the most important thing to him, always, is his family.
“And we were proud and loved him back. His funeral was testament to that: it was standing room only and there was an honour guard from the service. So farewell, Jeff. We’ll miss you mate.”
By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
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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.
Ellie Freeman Green, Bedminster
Email: cllr.ellie.freeman@bristol. gov.uk By phone: 0738 669 8680
Emily Clarke Labour, Bedminster. Email: cllr.emily.clarke@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 0738 669 8678
Tony Dyer, Green, Southville Phone: 0758 418 2862
USEFUL NUMBERS
Bristol City Council
www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000
Waste, roads 0117 922 2100
Pests, dog wardens 0117 922 2500 Council tax 0117 922 2900
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Email: Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk
Christine Townsend Green, Southville Phone: 0758 418 3843
Email: Cllr.Christine.Townsend@ bristol.gov.uk
Cam Hayward Green, Knowle Email: cam.hayward@ bristolgreenparty.org.uk
Toby Wells Green, Knowle. Phone: 07386 698771 Email: toby.wells@bristolgreenparty.org.uk
Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584184577 Email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk
Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 0758 418 6535 Email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk
Epic gets go-ahead to build on green corridor
COUNCILLORS have given the green light to an American company to build a 90-acre technology campus across the narrow stretch of green belt between Long Ashton and Bristol.
Healthcare technology company Epic said building its European headquarters in North Somerset would bring 2,150 high quality jobs in life sciences and £140m in gross value added to the economy per year. Brandon Reynolds of Epic said: “This would make us the largest private employer in North Somerset.”
But the plans have been majorly controversial. The fields between the Long Ashton Bypass and South Bristol Link Road where the company chose to build the office buildings, 3,000-seater auditorium, and solar field are considered to be the most valuable stretch of green belt in North Somerset.
Planning officers at North Somerset Council had agreed the plans were inappropriate development in the green belt — but recommended it should be approved anyway due to the major investment in the local economy. But as North Somerset Council planning committee met to decide the plans on January 15, local councillor Ash Cartman (Long Ashton, Liberal Democrat) asked: “Do they need this site to deliver those economic benefits?”
He said: “It’s clear to me from this application that Bristol gets the jobs, Weston gets the money, and Long Ashton gets the hassle.”
Councillors on the planning committee voted 9-4 to approve the plans, to shouts of “shame” from the public gallery. Debating the plans, planning committee member Terry Porter (Hutton and Locking, Conservative) said: “This is the biggest opportunity I have seen us have. It’s also the hardest one, there’s no doubt about that.”
The majorly divisive plans caused a split on North Somerset Council’s executive committee. The executive member responsible for sustainability Annemieke Waite (Winford, Green) warned the plans would set a “dangerous precedent,” while the executive member responsible for economy, Mark Canniford (Weston-super-Mare Hillside, Liberal Democrat), said it would be a “game changer.”
Long Ashton’s other local councillor Stuart McQuillian (Green) sits on the planning committee and urged the council to refuse planning permission for the plans. But only he, Dan Thomas (Congresbury and Puxton, Green), Tim Snaden (Portishead North, Portishead Independent) and Peter Crew (Weston-super-Mare South Worle, Conservative) voted against approving the plans.
Long Ashton Parish Council said it felt “profound disappointment” at the decision. The parish council said: “The development will transform Long Ashton from a distinct rural community into what will effectively become a conurbation of Bristol, causing significant and irreparable harm to local heritage assets and valuable agricultural land.
“The approval contradicts overwhelming local opposition, with 96% of submissions to the Planning Portal objecting to the development. It also disregards formal objections from numerous statutory bodies, Bristol City Council, and other parish councils in North Somerset.”
More than 700 people had lodged their objections to the plans. Addressing the planning committee, former Long Ashton parish councillor Charles Cave called the plans a “monstrous carbuncle”. He told the committee: “It would effectively join us to Bristol and we do not wish to be subsumed into Bristol.”
Parish councillor Chris Davis added: “If the green belt is lost, the semi-rural character of Long Ashton will be lost as well.” Also speaking against the plans, Claire Horn added: “This is not grey belt land. It is high quality undeveloped green belt.”
But the plans had the support of Weston College principal Pat Jones and Business West’s Phil Smith at the meeting for the new jobs it would create. Mr Smith said: “We see the creation of skilled high quality jobs to help our NHS and our healthcare sector being of national importance and a large vote of confidence in North Somerset.”
Although the plans have been approved, it will now need to be sent to the secretary of state — who has a chance to call in the plans — because it is
inappropriate development in the green belt.
Speaking after the vote, Mr Canniford said: “I’m delighted that it’s gone though. This poses a huge opportunity for the whole of North Somerset and shows that North Somerset is open for business and we want to see opportunities like this all over the district.”
But Ms Waite said: “For
everyone who lives along the A38, this is a bad decision. And we are going to live to regret it.” Mr Cartman said: “This council has become institutionally corrupted by an application which shows they know the price of everything and the value of nothing.”
Words by John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter
A CGI image of part of the campus from the planning application (Image: Epic)
n PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Welcome to our February issue...
THIS month, we are filled with celebrations for many local talents from chefs to former firefighters, football coaches and even quiz teams – it seems South Bristol is a huge success at the moment and brimming with local talent!
n NEWS
Number of knife crimes in Bristol increase
by 26%
THE number of knife crimes in Bristol shot up by over a quarter last year, according to police data. 1,953 crimes involving knives were recorded between April 2023 and March 2024, compared to 1,553 the previous year, an increase of 26%.
crime, bringing understandable concern and focus on how agencies and communities are working together. The impacts of the awful incidents in Ilminster Avenue and Rawnsley Park were felt across the city and beyond.”
Enjoy reading about their successes and don’t forget to share any of yours with us, too!
Serious violence offences involving knives saw an even larger jump of 38%, with 585 crimes recorded last year, compared to 423 the year before. However, “increased intensive police operations” have resulted in more offences being logged.
With Valentine’s just around the corner, why not check out our selection of special offers on page 11? Ruth
Details were revealed in the annual report of the Bristol Community Safety Partnership (BCSP), which coordinates work of the council, Avon and Somerset Police and other public sector organisations. The public health policy committee will consider the report on Friday, January 17.
In the report, Mark Runacres, neighbourhood policing superintendent, said: “During the past 12 months the city has witnessed the tragic loss of young lives through knife
“It takes time to grieve and find a way forward for families, individuals, communities and the city. For those working in the BCSP, it’s a time for reflection, learning and improving. With the bereaved families at the heart of the response to these incidents, communities have come together and shown compassion and strength to support each other.”
Compared to other major English cities, there were relatively fewer violent crimes in Bristol than elsewhere.
The rate of violent crimes that caused injury per 1,000 population in Bristol was 10.7, less than Newcastle with 15.3; Birmingham and Nottingham both with 13.7; and Leeds with 11.1. But the rate in Bristol was higher than London’s 8.9.
Words by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson
n NEWS
Vital support for local food banks
PLACES for People is providing vital support to communities in Bristol this winter, backing local warm hubs and food banks.
Three Bristol warm banks and food banks are to benefit from support from Places for People (PfP), a UK social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and nurturing thriving communities.
This latest initiative is part of PfP’s annual Winter Ready campaign, which promotes essential services available through group subsidiary Places Impact. The resources will be provided to Zion Monday Meals and Community Activities, The Matthew Tree Food Bank, and The Hartcliffe and Withywood Food Club & Support Hub, as part of a UK-wide initiative.
Marcus Hulme, director of places impact, PfP, said: “By supporting food and warm banks in the South West region, we’re providing tangible, accessible
n ADVERTORIAL
resources to help these areas navigate the toughest months of the year with confidence and support.”
The annual initiative follows PfP’s Wellbeing Survey results, which highlighted a continued need for services that support food and heat provision. The survey gathered thoughts of over 5,000 PfP Customers from across the country with almost a quarter of respondents in the South saying they can’t put the heating on in the cold and 15% of people stating they ran out of food and couldn’t afford to buy more.
The survey also saw people, nationwide, call for more support across the board this winter, with almost one-fifth of respondents demonstrating an interest in low-cost food provision, and 12% of people actively looking for support with their energy bills.
Marcus added: “Sadly, these survey results reinforce what we already know: many of our
Keep on running
HAVE you started running more this year? Maybe you have a race goal in mind, like the Bristol Half or 10km, or maybe you want to improve your health and wellbeing. Whatever your reason for starting, it is often difficult to continue forcing yourself out the door.
Studies have shown the main reasons people quit running are life and injuries. Be prepared for obstacles related to work, family, illness, holidays, injury and more.
Luckily there are a few simple steps you can take to keep willpower high and make exercise a regular habit:
1. Make a plan – set aside a part of your day specifically for exercise. Block out your diary and tell people that is time for you. Consider a training plan to provide more structure.
2. Increase frequency and intensity gradually – little and often is more sustainable. Start small to create a habit and keep motivation high.
3. Don’t neglect rest and recovery – even if you are feeling OK, factor in recovery days and rest before you get too tired and break down. To build a habit, consistency is key.
4. Invest in the right gear –this makes a huge difference to performance, comfort and injury prevention. Kinisi Run Hub helps
you find shoes that suit your unique running style.
5. Build a support system – find people to run with who are a similar ability and have the same goals in mind. There are so many running groups catering for all abilities in our local area.
6. Reward yourself – after exercising, treat yourself to something you enjoy as an additional motivator to smash your workout!
Build a habit and you’ll learn to love the ‘Runner’s High’ and be so proud of your accomplishments that it will take more discipline to rest than to exercise!
customers across the South West continue to struggle. By supporting local food and warm banks and highlighting additional resources this winter, we aim to alleviate some of
this pressure and support the wellbeing of our customers.”
For more information about the Winter Ready campaign, visit www.placesforpeople.co.uk/ ready-for-winter/
n LOCAL EVENTS
Luke Jerram’s ‘Helios’ on tour
HELIOS, Southville resident Luke Jerram’s latest commission, was launched at Bath Assembly Rooms in January and you can now experience Helios every day for free between 30 January and 23 February.
The internationally renowned artist was commissioned by the National Trust[1] to create Helios, named after the Ancient Greek mythological God who personified the sun. Helios follows Luke’s successful astronomical artworks ‘Museum of the Moon’, ‘Gaia’ and ‘Mars’.
Spanning seven meters in diameter, the sculpture combines audio and visual artistry including the sound of the sun captured by NASA. Helios is now touring National Trust and partner locations during 2025 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Helios fuses solar imagery, sunlight and a specially created surround sound composition, by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.
At an approximate scale of
1:200 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 200km of the sun’s surface.
Helios will also be installed at some of the charity’s most breathtaking locations, including Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire and Kedleston Hall in Derbyshire, where it will be a focal point for the property’s popular Diwali celebrations.
Commenting on Helios, the Trust’s director of access and conservation John OrnaOrnstein said: “We will be showcasing the installation alongside our partners, local councils and others we work with, to ensure that more people than ever can connect with, and be inspired by, great works of art.”
Helios artist Luke Jerram said: “We all know that it is very dangerous to look directly at the sun, as it can damage our eyesight. Helios provides a safe opportunity for the public to get up close to and inspect its extraordinarily detailed surface
including sunspots, spicules and filaments.”
“The Northern Lights are one of the greatest wonders and displays of art in the natural world. I’ve incorporated the source of the solar flares which caused this phenomenon to be visible over the UK in May 2024.”
“I hope that the soundscape, lighting and sheer scale of Helios will combine to make an extraordinary and uplifting
experience for the public and I cannot wait to see it showcased in some of the most wonderful locations around England, Wales and Northern Ireland.”
Tour dates and locations via nationaltrust.org.uk/helios [1]Helios has been cocommissioned by the National Trust, Cork Midsummer Festival, Liverpool Cathedral, Old Royal Naval College and University College London.
Police warn against fraudulent winter fuel payment texts
AVON and Somerset Police are warning people to be vigilant as fraudulent texts on winter fuel payments are being sent from criminals.
The texts encourage people to click on unsafe links to register for, or claim, fuel allowance.
However, clicking the link opens the door for fraudsters to steal personal and financial data. This can be used by the criminals to commit identity fraud – and take money.
“Even clicking the link and not entering any information could result in malicious software being downloaded onto your device,” said Fraud Protect Officer Claire Bounds.
“We have seen a spate of these texts being circulated in our area and it’s important for people to understand the best course of action to take.
“We’re asking people to share this advice with friends and family and especially elderly or
vulnerable people who may be at risk.”
If you receive unsolicited content like this:
• Stop! Think Fraud and don’t click on any links
• Take your time to read any unexpected messages. There are often signs to indicate fraud, such as spelling and grammar errors or strange use of language
• Forward the SPAM message to 7726 free of charge so your mobile phone provider can investigate
• If you have become a victim and have lost money, notify your bank immediately by calling 159. Also report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Action Fraud publishes an A-Z of scams and shares tips to avoid fraud at: www.actionfraud.police.uk
n KIDS EAT FREE this half-term
A round-up of some of the eateries from Bristol & beyond offering cheap/free kids’ meals this February half-term. Please check the terms and conditions carefully of participating venues.
n TGI Fridays - Available for new and existing Stripes Rewards Members. Children up to 12 years can enjoy a free kids’ main meal with the purchase of a full price adult’s main meal. Only one redemption per member. https://www.tgifridays.co.uk/
n Brewers Fayre - Kids Eat Free Breakfast: two kids under 16 eat for FREE with every adult breakfast purchased.
www.brewersfayre.co.uk/en-gb/ school-holidays
n Beefeater - Kids Eat Free Breakfast: two kids under 16 eat for FREE with every adult breakfast purchased.
www.beefeater.co.uk/en-gb/ school-holidays
n Bella Italia - Kids Eat for free or for £1. All day every Thursday and for £1 between 4-6pm, Sunday to Wednesday. Kids can enjoy three courses and a drink! Meals are
suitable for 2-11-year-olds.
https://www.bellaitalia.co.uk/ kids
n Morrisons café - Only one free meal from the kids menu with any one adult meal with a value of £4.50 or over.
https://my.morrisons.com/kidseat-free---tscs/
n Sainsbury’s Café - Kids eat for £1! Enjoy one child’s hot main meal or lunch bag for £1 with the purchase of an adult hot main meal from £5.20 in Sainsbury’s café.
https://help.sainsburys. co.uk/client/asset/ Cafemenulightbiteskids.pdf
n SA Brain Pubs - Kids can enjoy any main meal from the ‘Little Dragons’ menu for £1.00, when purchased with a full priced adult main meal. Offer valid every Wednesday, all day in participating pubs.
https://sabrainpubs.com/offersand-competitions/offers/kidseat-for-1
n Purezza - One child per adult under 10 can enjoy a free mini pizza. https://purezza.co.uk/
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n NEWS
£33million earmarked for temporary homes
Council to buy 75 homes in £33m plan to cut down on exorbitant temporary housing fees
BRISTOL City Council is planning to spend £33 million and buy 75 homes to use as temporary accommodation. The plan will move 75 families out of exorbitantly expensive private accommodation, and could eventually save taxpayers more than £2 million a year.
Over 1,600 households are staying in temporary accommodation in Bristol, with many in substandard but very expensive housing. Some are even staying in hotel rooms, as the council struggles to find enough places for people facing homelessness to stay.
Councillors have now approved a plan to buy up to 75 homes over the next financial year, beginning in April, after a vote by the strategy and resources policy committee on
n NEWS
December 16. They hope that as well as saving money, the plan will provide a better standard of living, too.
Louise Davidson, head of housing delivery, said: “This is an approach that many local authorities have done across the country, on a similar or even larger scale. We could be making a saving of up to £2.2 million a year if we were to buy all 75 of these properties.”
Jez Sweetland, tackling homelessness transformation lead, added: “It’s worth recognising if we don’t do this where these households will end up. They will continue in much more expensive accommodation.
“One of the priorities at the moment is moving households out of hotels and [bed and breakfasts].
“This also gives us more control as we engage with the sector that provides our TA to make sure they’re behaving, and holding that sector to account. A
lot of this is about the messaging back to that market.”
One concern about the plan is the cost of purchasing and renovating each home. Each property will cost about £360,000 to £420,000 to buy and renovate, and then SimplyPhi, the property consultants hired by the council, will get paid £14,000 per purchase. Ms Davidson said this fee was “very good value for money”, and includes legal, surveys and conveyancing costs.
Also last month, the council approved plans to use some of its council housing for temporary accommodation, in a bizarre plan described as like “robbing Peter to pay Paul” by one Green councillor.
Up to 180 homes a year will be turned into temporary accommodation for people facing a housing emergency, while the council assesses their needs and finds them a more permanent home.
Lollipop people could be saved
Move to save lollipop people from being axed
BRISTOL’S lollipop ladies and men could be saved from the axe after cross-party councillors opposed controversial plans to cut their funding to zero.
The city council’s finance sub-committee overwhelmingly demanded scrapping the proposal after hearing children’s lives would be put at risk and the savings would amount to only £314,000 a year compared with the local authority’s £52million funding gap over the next five years.
But the sub-committee has no decision-making powers and can only comment on planned cuts before all the options to save money and balance the books are considered by the strategy and resources policy committee on February 3 ahead of a final decision by full council three weeks later.
The strength of feeling against the move at the meeting on Wednesday, January 15, was apparent, however.
Cllr Ed Plowden (Green, Windmill Hill), chair of the transport and connectivity committee, which is responsible for the city’s school crossing patrols, said the cuts, along with proposed new fees for disabled parking bays, would have a big impact, especially on people with protected characteristics.
He said they were on the list of options because if the council effectively declared bankruptcy, as some other authorities, including Birmingham, have had to do, both would be among the first decisions by commissioners brought in to take over the council’s finances, as they are not statutory services.
Cllr Plowden told the meeting: “It’s worth saying that if one of our aims is a preventative approach… school crossing patrols encouraging children and often their parents and siblings to travel actively to school is a very good preventative measure, a very healthy thing to be doing.
“If they are removed, more people may choose to drive and that could increase the danger
for those, particularly deprived people, who may not be able to afford a car and will still be travelling actively.
“One way to reduce the impact of taking out school crossing patrols is to install zebra crossings where possible but often the patrol is there specifically because it’s not a simple site to do this and it’s not the same as a proactively attended patrol.”
He said staff were reduced from 65 to about 42 by the previous Labour administration in 2017 and that those who remained were at sites deemed more dangerous.
Cllr Plowden said: “We can also review the need for them on an ongoing basis as we roll out school streets and liveable neighbourhoods and as we put in other measures to try to improve road safety overall.”
Cllr Tim Kent (Lib Dem, Hengrove & Whitchurch Park), who is not a member of the sub-committee, said earlier at a public forum that cutting lollipop ladies and men would be a “very
Separately, the council is planning to set up its own temporary housing company. A full business case is expected to go before the strategy and resources policy committee at some point before March next year. This will focus on providing both more temporary and affordable housing.
Words by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
bad choice”.
He said: “We already saw a large reduction in crossing staff when they were cut by the [then] Labour mayor [Marvin Rees]. Those that remained were often working on busy roads where there are strong safety concerns. Keeping our children safe must be our first duty. Given the relatively small saving, I hope you as a committee voice strong opposition to this proposal.”
Words
by Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter
Jan25 finance sub-committee
Cllr Ed Plowdon
© Copyright Andrew Tryon and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
South Bristol Quizzers Rule
AMONGST the chaos and coldness of a January Saturday evening, BAWA Filton health & leisure club hosted the Let’s Get Quizzical Quiz-off – and what a night it was!
Thirty-seven top quiz teams from venues all over Bristol came together to battle it out for a £500 cash prize and the glory of being the Quiz-off champions.
Let’s Get Quizzical, run by company owner and all-round quiz legend Sam Munnings, hosts quizzes all over the city most nights of the week and the top three places earn their team points on the leader board.
With points counting from December through to November teams have plenty of chance to show up and earn their points, fighting it out against those regular teams as well.
With 11 rounds ranging from movies & TV, Name the year, History & Geography and general knowledge, there’s certainly
something in there for everyone and there’s always fun twists along the way!
Sam Munnings told us how he was very proud to host the smooth and successful sixth Quiz-off.
Said Munnings: “The quiz teams were amazing and the competitive buzz around the room was great to see.”
With just five points in it, the winning team was ‘Taking Care of Brisness’ from the Grounded Brislington venue, representing the south of the city for the second year in a row!
So, if you’re looking for a regular fun night out, with great food and drinks without going too far from home, follow Lets Get Quizzical on Facebook to find your nearest Lets Get Quizzical event and hopefully we will see you at the Quiz-off next year!
You can find a venue at: https://bit.ly/2Uug57k
(Above) The Quizoff at BAWA, Filton. (Below) Taking Care of Brisness quiz team: Alex, Laura, Tom, Kelly, Nick and Sarah P
Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals
Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.
The trees will be planted at Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.
The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.
From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.
In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.
Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.
“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone
into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.
“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And
you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”
And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it –90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.
The hard work of Danny and his company was also recently recognised and commended, with The Window Hub being named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the G24 Awards last year.
In 2025, The Window Hub will grow to cover domestic homes between Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Lands End in Cornwall.
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.
n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS
AS we go to print, residents will be aware of continuing problems with waste collections, especially over the holiday period. This is a continuing problem which not only affects our area but also many other parts of the city.
It has been made clear to Bristol Waste as part of the business planning process and via the relevant policy committee that the current situation is unacceptable and that we need to see a clear plan of action to deliver a more reliable service.
Residents, especially at the Ashton Gate end of the ward, will also be aware that the next stage of consultation on the Western Harbour proposals is now starting.
Following a series of exhibitions and multiple engagement events, initial master planning ideas will now be made available for public comment.
I KNOW January can be a challenging month in many ways. There are two Food Clubs run by a lovely team in Bedminster, offering an affordable way of getting a big bag of food at Bedminster Methodist Church on a Friday afternoon and Ashton Vale Community Centre on a Monday morning. Email them at food@ bs3community.org.uk for info.
The community fridge at Bedminster and Redcliffe Children’s Centre on British Road also has all sorts of food available for free, Mon-Thurs. Don’t forget the BS3 Repair Café on the last Saturday of the month.
February will finally see the zebra crossing on Duckmoor Road installed, which will particularly benefit Luckwell School. This has been a long time coming and is very welcome. The project is funded from the Community Infrastructure
On our side of the New Cut this will also need to be connected to upcoming proposals for Payne’s Shipyard which we expect to be a social housing led scheme.
As a council, we have also, by mutual agreement with the developer concerned, decided to terminate the existing development agreement for Bedminster Green Plot 5.
Moving forward, we are keen to bring forward a scheme that delivers more affordable housing as well as reductions in overall mass whilst also continuing to protect the Bedminster Green open space for future generations.
2025 will continue to be a year of significant change for our area, with many changes coming down the line. We are committed to ensuring that our residents are kept updated about those changes.
Ellie Freeman Green councillor Bedminster
THE Community Infrastructure Levy, CIL, is available for communities to apply for until 28 February. Thanks to the development that is happening in our area, there is a pot of money which can be applied for to help with community projects.
Some examples of community projects that have been awarded CIL money in the past include: The Skateboard Park in Victoria Park, trees planted on the intersection of St Marks Road and Ashton Vale, Outdoor Gym in Victoria Park, the Art Mural along the Malago Greenway and another at Bedminster train station, a shipping container situated on ‘Zone A’ on Firfield Street, for the Museum of Totterdown.
All projects need to be a capital spend, this is to say that it should be something that can be built or upgraded; it cannot be used for
Levy (CIL) funding that is paid by developers to the Council to mitigate the impact of their work. Some of that comes to the community, and ward councillors decide how it gets spent, based on ideas from residents.
The next round of CIL funding is open and the deadline for Stage 1 applications is 28 February. If you have an idea for a project, please do contact me. This could range from noticeboards to murals to AV equipment to accessibility measures. You can find more information about the process and the types of projects that get funded on the Council website under ‘Funding for Local Projects’.
Action Greater Bedminster is hosting two community meetings on this: 29 Jan 6.30-8pm Bedminster Methodist Church & 12 Feb 6.30-8pm, Ashton Vale Community Centre.
FEBRUARY is budget setting month and Bristol City Council will set its budget for the 2025/2026 financial year.
We have seen worrying proposals laid out by the Greenled administration including moving to monthly bin collections, major cuts to the library service and the axing of lollipop men and women.
I will fight against these proposals in order to protect our fortnightly bin collection, local library services and school crossing patrols.
This month will also see the annual round of Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 funding begin. These funds, paid for by developers in the area, are available for local groups and for local projects, such as new park equipment, noticeboards and bins.
ongoing maintenance or salaries.
We are glad to be using two vital community groups as our community connectors who have worked tirelessly in the community and have a reputation for getting things done, TRESA and VPAG.
If you feel that you have a community project that needs some funding, please contact us, your local councillors, Cllr Lisa Stone and Cllr Ed Plowden. Email cllr.lisa.stone@bristol.gov.uk or cllr.ed.plowden@bristol.gov. uk, and we will be willing to help you fill in the stage 1 proposal forms. Alternatively, you can search CIL funding proposals to find the relevant pages on the Bristol council website.
We’re looking forward to helping you to fund your projects and please see the other Green Party updates on this page for more local news.
Emily Clarke Labour councillor Bedminster
I know we have lots of great community groups around here, so please get in touch with myself or Action Greater Bedminster, hello@actiongreaterbedminster. org.uk if you want to discuss any ideas you have. I’m happy to support in any way I can.
It was great to welcome Helen Godwin, Labour’s candidate for the West of England Mayor, to Bedminster at the end of January.
The West of England Mayor has key responsibilities for housing, transport and skills/ education across the region, so it was brilliant to have Helen in Bedminster discussing some of these issues with local residents.
For more information about Helen and the upcoming West of England mayoral election, please visit: www.facebook. com/people/Helen-Godwin-forMayor
southbristolvoice
n NEWS FROM BS3 COMMUNITY – THE CHARITY THAT RUNS THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE AND THE CHESSEL CENTRE
Stay & Play
Wednesday 19 February: 10.30am-12pm
Stay & Play is back for the half-term holiday!
Join our fun, family-friendly playgroup in the Milford Hall at The Southville Centre. No need to book; just turn up and pay at reception.
£3.50 for 1 adult & 1 child, then 50p for each additional child.
There will be a range of activities most suited for ages 1-7 years. Includes crafts, games and sensory play.
Refreshments for the children are included.
BS3 Carer’s Day
Wednesday 26 February, 10am–2pm at Philip Street Chapel, Bedminster BS3 4EA This FREE event is for you if you look after a family member, partner or friend who needs help due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or addiction.
More details coming soon but there will be information stands and support, activities for you and the person you care for and refreshments.
No need to book – just save the date and turn up on the day!
Move together: Strength and Balance
Join us at Philip Street Chapel in Bedminster, on Tuesday 28 Jan for this month’s fun, social session of gentle seated and standing exercises to strengthen the body and mind.
The classes are on every 4th Tuesday of the month from 1-2pm
It is £2 to take part, including refreshments. To book a space, contact Kathy on 07739 649778 between Tuesday and Friday 10am4pm.
Toddlers & Grandparents Group (TAG)
Wednesday 10.45 am–12pm, The Southville Centre.
TAG is a weekly (term-time) playgroup with sessions suitable for children aged 1+ accompanied by a grandparent. There’s a range of fun activities including crafts, singing, sensory play and story time.
Cost: £3.50 for 1 adult and 1 child. Refreshments included. No need to book –just drop in!
For more information, contact us on: 0117 923 1039 or info@bs3community.org.uk
n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS
HAPPY new year to all of our residents!
We are starting the year with the kick-off of the ‘area committee funding process’, where projects in the local area can be funded by contributions from property developments.
Toby has been elected as chair of Area Committee 9, which covers Knowle, Brislington and Stockwood.
Projects can be investments in community facilities, parks and roads. If you or a community organisation you are part of wants
Cam Hayward and Toby Wells Green councillors Knowle
to submit a bid, you can find the details of how to do so on the council website. You should also get in touch with us as we need to validate your bid.
We are now holding dropin surgeries every month on the second Friday at 2pm. In the summer months (May to September) these will be held at Redcatch Community Garden, and for the rest of the year they will be held at The Park Centre. Please come along and share your issues and views with us!
n HEALTH NEWS
South Bristol Defib Network
SOUTH BRISTOL DEFIBRILLATOR LOCATIONS (WITH WHAT3WORDS LOCATIONS)
Detailed below are the locations of the existing defibrillators accessible 24/7 (unless marked ‘restricted’) that Simon Brookes from Defibs4Bristol.com has compiled, together with ‘what3words’ locations for each.
Trojan Fitness, Unit 204, South Liberty Lane, Ashton, BS3 2TY. jars.digs.sooner Bristol BS3 communities Chessels, BS3 3DN. herbs.gather.truck C.J.Hole 268 North Street, Bedminster, BS3 1JA. still.frogs.string Bristol BS3 communities Southville Centre, Southville, BS3 1QG. goods.luxury.comic Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian St, Windmill Hill, BS3 4LW. wings.spike.remain
The Masonic, 110 North Street, Bedminster, BS3 1HF. exit.poetic.poetic Monarch House, Smyth Road, Ashton, BS3 2BX. casino.milky.other The Garages, Islington Road, Southville, BS3 1QB. loving.shades.fonts
The Luckwell Hotel, Luckwell Road, Southville, BS3 3HB. last.packet.garage 194, West Street, Bedminster BS3 3NB. shadow.elder.gather
Bristol City Football Club, Ashton Road, Ashton, BS3 2EJ. hats.sank.complains County Gates, Ashton Road, Ashton, BS3 2JH. palm.award.polite Imperial Tobacco, 121 Winterstoke Road, Ashton, BS3 2LL (restricted). deflection.person.tonic Ashton Vale Church, Risdale Road, Ashton, BS3 2QY. empire.rises.secure Swimming Baths, Knowle, BS4 2LP. market.weep.taken Bristol Osteopaths, 253 Wells Road, Totterdown, BS4 2PH. marked.plan.broker Knowle Cricket Club BS4 2RD (restricted). Knowle, lowest.fees.match Broadwalk Shopping Centre, Wells Road, Knowle, BS4 2QU (restricted). link.along.soap Grove Park, Brislington, BS4 3LG. bring.glitz.tunes
PureGym, Unit 2C, Brislington Retail Park, Bath Road, Brislington, BS4 4NG. soap.kite.finest Brislington & St Anne’s Conservative Club, 109 Wick Road, Brislington, BS4 4HE. save.booth.battle PYTCH, 4 Skyline Park, Hartcliffe, BS4 5QH. appeal.bolts.shaped Totterdown Baptist Church, Wells Road, Totterdown, BS4 2AX. loaf.charm.broker
Help us keep this list up to date! If you notice any errors or emissions, email us at news@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Simply take a photo of this page on your phone and save it for emergency use, or cut the page out and keep for reference.
The what3words location is given in red for each AED location. What3Words is a location finding app available on iPhone and Android phones and tablets which allows you to name, pinpoint and share locations anywhere in the world by way of a unique three-word identifier. It is being used by emergency services to help locate people and incidents, and using it will enable you to find the exact location of any of these defibrillators in an emergency. Why not download the app to your phone now? Using what3words can save lives.
All these defibrillators have been funded by voluntary donations. To find out more about the work of Defibs4Bristol, the driving force behind most of the defibs listed, please visit www.defibs4bristol.com.
n NEWS Is your defib missing?
Can you help?
Is your local defib missing? If so, please contact Simon Brookes who has found what he believes to be a stolen defib and is keen to return this to its rightful owner.
Defibs4Bristol.com would welcome any help with keeping existing defibs online or with new installs.
Said Simon, “Getting AEDs back online ASAP after 999 calls is essential, which was demonstrated recently when one in Southmead was activated and taken to a patient twice in 14 hours.”
You can contact Simon via simonbrookes1951@gmail. com
Theresa Damsell who funded the R Davies defib, together with Simon Brookes (who helped with the purchase and registration) and councillor Graham Morris who was the intermediary and a strong advocate of a proper defib network in Bristol.
n ADVERTORIAL
KNOWLE FOOTBALL VOLUNTEER GETS KING’S HONOUR
MIKE Alden is no stranger to accolades, but he now joins the very special group of individuals recognised by the King in the New Year Honours List for his voluntary services to the community.
Mike will travel to Buckingham Palace later this year to meet King Charles at an official ceremony to receive his British Empire Medal. The news came as a huge surprise to Mike who was unaware that he’d been nominated.
So what exactly does a man like Mike have to do to be recognised by the highest office in the land?
Fifty-eight-year-old Mike has lived in Knowle West all his life. He’s married to Linda and has three sons, one daughter and a gaggle of 12 grandchildren.
So far, so ordinary.
But Mike is far from ordinary;
he’s completely extraordinary.
As a toddler, Mike was diagnosed with brittle bone disease, a lifelong genetic disorder that causes bones to break very easily. He is registered disabled, uses a mobility scooter to get around and walks with a stick.
At thirty-five, a broken ankle ended Mike’s own football career. But he then started his own club for local children and by 2012 this had morphed into the Park Knowle FC. The club is based at The Park Centre in Knowle West, where it has its own clubhouse, café and football pitch.
Today, Park FC boasts 15 teams including boys, girls, mixed, men, women and five disability teams. It also has a very full and enviable cabinet of silverware – soon to be joined by The British Empire Medal
When asked during a TV interview how he felt about the award, Mike said: “You don’t do it for recognition; you do it because you want to make a difference in your community. Hopefully I’ve done that.”
He certainly has made
Loft Boarding & Insulation
a difference – hundreds of children and young people have come through the club since it started and many of the current team managers started there as children.
But this is not just about playing football; it’s much more important than that: this club makes a difference to people’s lives, especially disabled people who can turn up, meet people, have social interaction, and play a game of footy.
This is the reason for the royal recognition Mike has now received. Said Mike: “Disability doesn’t exist in my mind. Because I’m disabled myself. I’ve broken nearly every bone in my body. But it mends and we carry on.”
He really is unstoppable, and all while battling broken bones, hospital stays and the day-to-day trials of family life for someone living with disability.
If you’re interested in joining one of Mike’s teams, please email mikealden45@hotmail.co.uk or call 07504 989716
This award marks a hattrick for Mike. In 2022 he was crowned BBC Sports Personality of The Year Unsung Hero; the
following year he bagged the Lord Mayor’s Medal; and he starts 2025 with the highest accolade of them all – a King’s Medal, topped off with a visit to ‘Buck House!’
Mike does not seek any recognition for the work he does; he’s a very humble man who quietly goes about making a difference. So it’s even more satisfying that this quiet man from Knowle West has attained one of the country’s highest awards.
Congratulations Mike!
Have you been to The Park lately?
Community Café
Special Education Centre
Gym & Fitness Classes
Football Club
Youth Moves
Conference Rooms and more...
It’s more than a community centre
0117 903 9770 | enquiries@theparkcentre org uk www theparkcentre org uk | Daventry Road, BS4 1DQ
n ART EXHIBITION Local artist holds exhibition at home
Susie Fitzsimmons: Exhibition 2025
IN a quiet recess on Stackpool Road BS3 is the home of local artist, painter, sculptor ceramicist and photographer Susie Fitzsimmons.
The walls of her home are covered in her paintings, many of which reflect a life of travel, exploration, events and intimacies which have caught her imagination.
Many paintings are sharply observed glimpses of an encounter or scene which is subtly linked to a current issue: climate chaos, the conflicts thrown up by inequalities of wealth or opportunity; others are quiet moments of everyday life in the variety of cultures she has visited.
Her travels have taken her to Australia, Japan, New Guinea Afghanistan and Iran. She will charm you with many a tale; a
life of unusual adventure. More recently it is to Mauritius and Mexico, she has been attracted.
The Mexican paintings reflect her admiration for the fierce vitality (even wildness) of its people, geography and natural forces …. a looming volcano or a wind that has shaped the trees in a city park will pull you into the paintings.
Her work is increasingly political and the gaunt face of a displaced young man stares back at us from the canvas. Another when closely examined is a print of a refugee camp collaged into the background as two women occupy the foreground. She experiments with different materials and uses tissue paper
and sticks in addition to paint. Originally trained and practised in sculpture, Susie moved into painting in the 1990s ‘lured by the gorges possibilities of colour’ to use her own words. Her work covers a broad spectrum. When you visit, you will enter a magical place where a deep appreciation of the past is matched with a sharp awareness of current dilemmas. Do not miss this display of paintings and art work. It is a treasure trove on your doorstep.
Viewing available 8-11 Feb, 11am-7pm
n WICKED WITCH
In witch my purposes are crossed
MY phone rang. I was out with the grandbaby and the dog. I juggled all three and peered at the screen. It was a mobile number that was not in my contacts. I stared at it and decided not to answer. It immediately rang me back. Gawd! It could be an emergency. Reluctantly I pressed accept.
“Hello. Is that Witchy McWitchface?” asked a young sounding woman. “Yes…” I replied suspiciously. “This is BBC Radio Truro here”. Odd! “We are hoping you could come onto the breakfast show tomorrow morning at 7am and go through the morning papers with us. Just pick a couple of stories that interest you and chat about them and the Jubilee Pool, too, obviously.”
I stuttered. I am not very good on the telly or radio. I think that I am hilarious, but in reality I am not. In fact, picture tumbleweeds rolling across the water and an awkward silence. I was on Joe Sims, BBC Radio Bristol’s morning show recently and made sure that I was fully prepared. I had sheets of notes. The producer who welcomed us took one look at my notes and had a panic attack. “You definitely won’t need those,” she assured me
and two minutes later I found she was correct. We were on air for about 30 seconds, enough time for one tumbleweed and my nervous laughter.
Back to Mrs BBC. “So, I’ll need to look through the papers before going on air and choose something that interests me?”
I asked. “That’s right,” she replied cheerfully before adding, “Although obviously don’t say anything libellous.”
That could be tricky… most of my thoughts would get me arrested today. “Okay, pick something that’s fun and not doom and gloom?” I confirmed, while wondering if such things exist.
Mrs BBC told me that they were doing a feature on lidos. “I never know how to say it,” she continued “lido or laydo?” We laughed and I remembered when we did consider removing the roof of Jubilee Pool which would have solved so many problems.
“Right, how do we do this, where will you be?” I quizzed. “We are based in Truro so we’d do it via Teams,” she replied, “We could talk about the filming that took place recently at your pool and what you did in preparation?”
Strange. We’d had the BBC at the pool filming the Jubilee-athon for the news but apart from ensuring I was not filmed in my swimsuit, there was no other preparation.
Then something in my cavernous brain pinged. I sagged. “You don’t want to talk to me at all,” I told her. “I’m part of the crew who saved Jubilee Pool in Bristol. You are talking about Jubilee Pool in Cornwall aren’t you?”
Of course she was and quickly ended the call, leaving me dreaming of my five minutes of Cornish fame. In fact, I wish I hadn’t owned up; it would have been fabulous!
I am Labour’s candidate for the West of England Mayor in May 2025.
This area is my home. I grew up on the outskirts of Bristol, my family live across the West Country and I’m now raising my three children here.
Our region is a great place to live but I know there are challenges too. I will work every day to put our region on the map and deliver good well-paid jobs, reliable public transport and more affordable homes.
Get in touch and let me know what your priorities are for the West of England.
Jubilee Pool needs volunteers
JUBILEE POOL needs more trustees to help take the pool and gym forward from May 2025. The team has responsibility for ensuring the building is fit for purpose, works closely with the pool’s management team and runs the Friends of Jubilee Pool (Bristol) Ltd Charity.
The team is looking for people with enthusiasm, energy and time to spare to join them in this mission.
The team also needs volunteers to assist with the PR and marketing of its fundraising efforts, as well as help organising and managing events.
If you have a passion for Jubilee Pool, supporting your community, meeting new people and want to contribute
your skills, the team would love to hear from you!
Positions available include:
• PR and Marketing: Help us spread the word through social media, local press, producing a ‘corporate ask’ and more.
• Event Organizing: Assist with planning and running events to raise funds and engage the community.
• General Support: If you have other skills to offer, we’re open to suggestions and support.
If you’re interested, please contact Rachel via rachel_heaton@fojp.co.uk
n IN FOCUS: REFLEX CAMERA CLUB
REFLEX Camera Club is looking for new members. The club meets at Wicklea Academy, Wick Road, St Anne’s on Thursday evenings and has members from Bedminster, Westbury-on-Trym, Warmley and Filton.
The club is open to all with plenty of novices, and many experienced at taking landscapes, portraits, macro, street, event, animal and even astro photographs.
The club runs competitions every year, four open, one themed, one for previously entered images and one voted for by the members, with external judges. Its most recent competition produced a variety of images, including the Exmoor Ponies, right.
n
ADVERTORIAL – AGE UK
Move aside Valentine’s day, hello Galantine’s day
Celebrating
friendships is just as important
THE 14 February has traditionally seen couples across Bristol pile into restaurants, cinemas and bars but the notion of Galentine’s and Palentine’s day is becoming more popular with friends celebrating the lifelong value of friendship.
For older adults, friendships often become more important as life events such as retirement, bereavement and poor health can increase our risk of becoming socially isolated, which sometimes leads to feeling lonely.
Loneliness is well known to negatively impact health and wellbeing. Research has found that one in four people over 60 feels lonely and this increases to one in three over 751
To reduce social isolation and the risk of feelings of loneliness, Age UK Bristol has a free to join network of FAB (Friends Ageing Better) cafés across the city that run week in, week out.
Held in community centres from Withywood to St Werburgh’s, cafés are drop-in with access to refreshments and are well loved by attendees. FAB cafés are inclusive and everyone is welcome with St Werburgh’s being an LGBTQ+-friendly space.
One regular, Jen, said: “I didn’t realise I needed somewhere like this until retirement.” This view was echoed by others who spoke about having more time to fill and praised the welcoming
At the end of the club year, there is a presentation of the overall winning images.
There’s feedback from the judge with observations and suggestions but it’s a friendly atmosphere and different judges have different views. There’s no pressure to enter but it can be a good opportunity to get feedback from others.
But it’s not all about competitions; there are practical sessions, too, and sometimes members go out on location. The club also runs training sessions such as how to prepare images for projection and print.
Other evenings include practical sessions, sometimes geared towards the themes and
nature of the groups. Another woman, Marlene, was told about the cafés by her daughter and hasn’t looked back. She said: “People are interesting, from so many different backgrounds and all very welcoming.” Marlene spoke about learning from each other and sharing experiences.
FAB coordinator Sue Forde also pointed to the importance of getting out of the house for older people, “Coming along to a FAB café session is a reason to leave the house and as well as growing social connections, it also maintains mobility.”
John, who has arthritis, agreed, saying that his condition is much worse in the winter, but “movement is the best thing for it”.
There are FAB cafés all over the city on different days and times. There is no need to book; just drop in for a cuppa. All FAB cafés have wheelchair access and facilities.
For more information on FAB cafés, please see our website: www.ageuk.org.uk/bristol/ our-services/fab/fab-cafes/ Alternatively, call 0117 4404301 or email: fab@ageukbristol. org.uk
1 Chawla et al, Plos One (2021) Prevalence of loneliness amongst older people in high-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis
once a month there is a guest speak via Zoom. It’s free to try the club three times for just £1 per evening, or £3 if there’s a guest speaker, then annual membership is £96, which you can pay in three equal instalments.
For details see www.reflexcameraclub. co.uk or email reflexcc@gmail.com. On Facebook, search for Reflex Camera Club.
Exmoor Ponies in the rain by Alison Davies
Fall back in love with food!
Unearth the benefits of better food this new year
The Community Farm is a not-for-profit, organic farm based just outside Bristol. Add a veg box to your shopping list for 4 weeks in a row and reignite your love for cooking with our colourful range of crops — including a British-only box and a Farmer’s Choice selection. Unearth the benefits for your health, your community, local wildlife, and the climate.
With just 4 orders you could:
Enrich your diet with 26 different organic vegetables
Help more than 75 people benefit from growing the food in your box
Support 7 climate- and wildlife-friendly British farms
Sustain 14 butterfly species that visit our farm
And much more!
Impact
Join a growing community this new year
SEEING news headlines about climate change, war and division can leave us feeling powerless and isolated as individuals. What can we do? There are few places left in the UK for community to thrive, even less for nature to flourish. Very little at all for anything which doesn’t tick the boxes of our fast-paced culture of productivity and profit.
Community, along with nature, is being pushed to the edges of what it can survive. And nowhere is this more true than for our food system.
Communities of people growing, cooking and sharing food was once the joyous heart of our society. But those local, organic and resilient food systems have been lost to industrialisation, alienating us from our food, from each other and from the natural world.
What we have gained in yearround produce at rock-bottom prices, we have lost in connection to the land and what sustains us.
But there are pockets of resistance, places where food
helps community and nature thrive despite these pressures.
The Community Farm is one of those places: a place to connect with nature and each other through the power of food; a place to feel, see, touch, taste and experience what food grown
in community with nature can be; a place to feel your spirits soar as you see land where nourishing food is grown with care; and a place to show the wider world that a different way is possible.
Gentler, kinder, stronger and
braver. Better for all. This new year, come and see for yourself. Join us for volunteering and events on the land or get a home delivery of organic food that’s been grown with hands and hearts.
n NEWS FROM BRISTOL SOUTH MP KARIN SMYTH
Looking after our health
DURING winter, we are more conscious of our health as flu and colds circulate and we may worry about what a visit to the hospital might mean for ourselves or for a vulnerable loved one.
Since the General Election, I have been privileged to serve as Minister of State for Health. During my time in post, I have been confronted with the legacy of the last Conservative government, with waiting times of up to 18 months and crippling strikes that led to cancelled appointments for people across south Bristol.
One of our first actions in government was to resolve the pay dispute with resident doctors to get them off the picket line and back on the front line. In January, we set out a plan to get waiting times down
and bring care into the heart of communities.
Under these plans, you can book more appointments via the NHS app in locations that are more convenient to you. After decades of campaigning, we have the South Bristol Community Hospital on our doorstep offering scans and diagnostics. We want more local services like this across the country. A visit to a hospital during working hours is not ideal for everyone, and allowing patients flexibility is a real step forward in modernising our NHS.
While many NHS services in Bristol send out text reminders for appointments, too many places around the country are yet to catch up. We will ensure this is rolled out nationwide, bring the best of the NHS to the rest of the
Totterdown’s
TOTTERDOWN-based BANK restaurant has been shortlisted for three of eight public-voted awards in the Trencherman’s Awards 2025.
As well as Best Trencherman’s Restaurant and Best Trencherman’s Newcomer, BANK chef Jack Briggs-Horan has been shortlisted for Best Trencherman’s Chef.
Amongst others, Jack BriggsHoran is up against the likes of the renowned Paul Ainsworth, No6, Padstow and Michelinstarred Merlin Labron-Johnson of Osip in Bruton.
Dan O’Regan, owner and founder of BANK, said: “We’re always keen to see who’s made the Trencherman’s shortlists in January, so this is an exciting start to the year for BANK!
“Having been listed in the Trencherman’s Guide for the first time last year, we were delighted to make the cut for the Newcomer Award, but to be shortlisted in categories as prestigious as Best Restaurant and Best Chef is something else.
NHS and helping to cut one million missed appointments every year.
This Labour Government are helping people here in south Bristol with funding of £1,718,900 for Bristol City Council in 2025/26 to support family hubs as well as an additional half a million pounds as part of the Disabled Facilities Grant. This is a crucial programme helping more people live independently in their own homes by installing adaptations to suit their needs.
In the spring, we will set out our 10-year Health Plan which will be shaped by the input of over 60,000 respondents to the Change NHS portal. If you have thoughts that you would like to share, please visit change. nhs.uk.
Karin Smyth shares her views with the Voice
BANK restaurant shortlisted for three awards BANK co-owners Dan O’Regan & Jack Briggs-Horan are shortlisted for three awards
“To see yourself alongside some of the most respected names in the country – let alone the South West – means a lot.
“We want to say a massive
thank you to the diners who continue to get behind us – not just in awards votes like this, but for coming out and helping make BANK what it is.
“You can’t have a neighbourhood restaurant without a strong community, so we feel very lucky to have such amazing support.”
ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams
Infected sore throat? NHS walk-in treatment offer at Bedminster Pharmacy can Help.
A SORE throat can be most unpleasant; the pain and discomfort makes eating, drinking, or speaking hard.
Most cases are harmless, but the NHS-funded assessment and treatment offered at Bedminster Pharmacy enables children from five years and adults to access appropriate therapies, including antibiotics.
What causes sore throats?
A sore throat is a symptom usually caused by an upper respiratory tract infection.
Viruses, including cold and flu viruses, cause four in five sore throats. Sore throats are common. Around half of us will have at least one sore throat a year. Most will usually get better without treatment within one to two weeks.
If the sore throat hurts so much, it must be tonsillitis, right?
Tonsillitis is a precise clinical diagnosis denoting inflammation of the tonsils. It occurs when the clumps of tissue on either side of the back of your throat (tonsils) become painful and swollen. Patches of creamy pus can appear on the tonsils. It may cause fever and, usually, there is
Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy discusses what a sore throat can indicate and how to get the most effective help when you need it.
no cough. Sore throats can turn into tonsillitis.
The NHS service available at Bedminster Pharmacy offers a physical examination of your throat alongside a comprehensive review of your medical history.
Many people require support to adopt effective, evidencebacked self-care to recover; sometimes, a shared decision to offer antibiotics will be appropriate. However, we are also looking out for worrying symptoms or patient groups like immunosuppressed patients, where more urgent care is required.
Cool drinks, cool, soft food,
and ice lollies can ease the pain of sore throats. Adults can suck ice cubes or hard sweets and gargle with warm, salty water. Taking paracetamol and ibuprofen can help reduce symptoms of sore throats, as well as temperature and headaches.
Lozenges, gargles and sprays are also available in the pharmacy, medicines that will numb the pain.
Come into Bedminster Pharmacy for help; no appointment is required. We will use our clinical expertise to help guide you to the best decisions for you or your child.
The NHS-funded assessment and treatment offered at Bedminster Pharmacy is designed to enable children from five years and adults to access timely appropriate assessment, treatment and advice, including antibiotics where necessary.
Bedminster Pharmacy 4-6 Cannon Street, Bedminster, BRISTOL, BS3 1BN
Getting to the heart of the matter
HEART disease is any condition of the heart or great blood vessels which affects the way the heart works and prevents oxygen being transported normally around the body. Congestive heart failure occurs when the diseased heart begins to lose its ability to pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body.
Symptoms:
• Coughing
• Breathing difficulty or breathlessness
• Reduced energy levels and inability to exercise
• Cyanosis (where the gums become blue in colour)
• Collapse or hind limb weakness
• Ascites (fluid build-up in the abdomen)
It is also important to remember that some heart diseases are mild and cause
no symptoms in the animal’s lifetime.
Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD) is by far the most common acquired heart disease in dogs. This can affect any breed but is more commonly seen in the smaller dogs.
The problem arises when the mitral valve in the heart degenerates and changes shape over time. This valve becomes leaky and causes a heart murmur which can be heard when the heart beats.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common acquired form of heart disease in cats. With this disease the heart muscle becomes thickened and prevents the heart relaxing, filling and pumping properly.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) can be seen in both dogs and cats, although is far more common in dogs. This is another disease of the heart muscle which
results in thinning of the heart wall and weakened pumping ability. DCM can be responsible for collapse and sudden death, especially in certain breeds such as Dobermann Pinschers and Boxers.
Congenital Heart Diseases are seen less often, but may include malformations of valves or a failure of the closure of a blood vessel after birth.
The treatment options for heart disease very much
depend on the diagnosis. The vast majority of acquired heart diseases are managed with medication.
At Bristol Imperial Vets4Pets we can offer cardiology heart scans with one of our visiting referral vets Marco who also works at Langford Veterinary Services. So we are very lucky to have his expertise and knowledge to help us give the best care to our patients.
n BS3 WILDLIFE
Love that slug
HUMANS are sometimes rather dismissive. Groups of plants and animals get side-lined as ‘weeds’ and ‘pests’. Many within these groups perform valuable services to the environment as a whole and, often, to us, too.
Nevertheless, we seek to eliminate them with poisons, habitat destruction, pulling them up and stamping on them.
One such group are the c150 species of slugs and snails on the UK list for land and fresh water.
The Royal Horticultural Society and the Wildlife Trusts have recently published a booklet called Making Friends with Molluscs.
They show that, far from
Why not make your own garden more wildlife friendly with the help of the RHS?
Guerilla gardening at Bedminster Train Station
IT’S the New Year! For the last 25 years, a group of people have been gardening on two bits of wasteland, one at Bedminster Train Station at the bottom of Windmill Hill and the other on the Malago Greenway at Fraser Street, Bedminster.
Both pieces of land were areas of “outstanding national ugliness” but working together for a few hours every month has effected a transformation from abandoned needles and mattresses to trees, shrubs and flowers all year round.
We are a welcoming bunch that welcome new gardeners. We have the tools; we just need the hands. So, if you fancy digging,
being damaging, most slugs and snails contribute greatly to the traditional English garden.
Only a few species are drawn to fresh new plants and the booklet suggests non-damaging ways of protecting delicate flowers.
One important advantage of molluscs is that they are part of a vast clear-up crew: an army of small creatures including worms and many insects that devour fallen leaves, dead plants and animals and more. They turn this debris into the soil that supports our plants.
If they don’t do it, who will?
Molluscs are also a major food source for several birds and for animals such as hedgehogs, frogs and toads.
Who wants to starve hedgehogs or make them ill if they eat contaminated slugs?
Making Friends with Molluscs (left) is one of nine booklets so far published in this series. Others include Bring Back Beetles; Big and Small Ponds for All and Wild About Lawns.
People ask how to make their gardens more wildlife friendly. These booklets are a good start.
Words by Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3
Wildlife Group
CONTACT: mywildbedminster@ virginmedia.com
weeding and planting, come along and take a look.
Gardening from 10.00 to 12.00 midday, first Sunday of the month.
Next session will be on 2 February.
For more information, ring 07482404746 or email c.orlik@yahoo.co.uk
Bristol Mindfulness Therapy
southbristolvoice
n WHAT’S ON n COMPETITION
25 January
n The Patchwork Community Gardening Group annual Wassail, the Myrtle Street Orchard (behind Tesco on North St), 2-4pm. Enjoy music, poetry, mulled cider & cakes and welcome in the new year and wake up the trees for the new growing season. For info, email bemmiepatchwork@gmail.com
31 January – 9 February
n Bristol Light Festival. FREE. 10 days of dazzling light-based artworks. For info, go to https:// bristollightfestival.org/blf-2025/#
3 February
n Everyone says hi is playing at Rough Trade, Bristol as part of a UK tour celebrating the release of its debut album. For tickets and info, https://bit.ly/4j9DaTc
7 February
n Quiz Night at St Paul’s, Coronation Rd, Southville, 7.30pm. Teams of 4; £5pp, including supper.
19 February
Seth Lakeman, St Georges, 7.30pm. Enjoy an evening with West Country folk singer and multi-instrumentalist Seth Lakeman, following the release of his latest album The Granite Way, out 14th February. Tickets from £29.50 via https://bit.ly/40kxBJm
19-22 February
n Bristol South District Scouts Gang Show 2025, Bedminster Down Secondary School. Starts 7pm on 19-21; 2pm matinee and 6pm evening performance on Sat 22. Enjoy a theatrical performance by youth members of the Scouts and Guides. https://bit.ly/3PzVxTT
n CHURCH NEWS
27 February
South Bristol Jobs & Apprenticeships Fair, 11am-2pm, City of Bristol College – South Bristol Skills Academy, The Boulevard, Hengrove BS14 0DB. 30+ employers attending this FREE event. Reserve your place via https://bit. ly/40jBoGL
Thursdays
Reflex Camera Club, 7.30pm, Wicklea Acadamy, St Anne’s, BS4 4HU. (See story on page 19 for more details.)
n Forest School, Dame Emily Park. 2-4.45pm. Developing a sense of awe and wonder about nature, so together we can save it. Contact info@forestchild.co.uk
Last Thursday in the Month
n JAZZ@THEPARK The last Thursday of the month, 2.304.30pm. Everyone is welcome and the cost is just £3.50. No need to book. Find out more about the Grateful Society here: www.gratefulsociety.org
Saturdays
n Knitting & crochet group, 11.30-1, Redcatch Park, Broadwalk, Knowle. Enjoy knitting or crochet, no matter whether you are a beginner or professional. Contact Heather@redcatchcg.com
CONNECT AND CELEBRATE with women and communities across Bristol, Saturday 8 March 2025, Bristol City Hall, 10am –5pm. Over 50 workshops, all welcome, free transport, crèche, interpreting and accessibility support available. For info, go to: www.bristolwomensvoice. org.uk or email info@ bristolwomensvoice.org.uk
ST ALDHELM’S, Chessel Street, Bedminster
SUNDAY
n 10am every week, followed by refreshments.
n 1st Sunday of the month – All Age Service.
WEDNESDAY
n 1st Wednesday of the month – 10am BCP Communion, followed by refreshments.
All welcome
ST PAUL’S, Coronation Road, Southville
SUNDAY
n 10:30am every week, followed by refreshments.
n 1st Sunday of the month – 9am Traditional Communion, 10am Breakfast, 10:45am All Age Service.
All welcome
Slapstick 2025 reader giveaway –
Enter now for your chance to win two tickets to Slapstick 2025’s Silent Comedy Gala!
WE have two top price tickets that must be won, worth a total of £110, for the festival’s flagship event – its Silent Comedy Gala, happening at Bristol Beacon on Friday 14 February.
Hosted by Martin Freeman (The Office, Sherlock, Fargo, The Hobbit films, Black Panther, etc, etc), you can enjoy:
• Pre-show entertainment in the Beacon’s foyer from Trip for Biscuits playing 1920s ragtime takes on modern hits
• Big screen showings of three classic silent comedy films, each accompanied by live music and with the legendary keyboard player Rick Wakeman among the musicians
• An inter-film performance by The Matinee Idles, the acapella group comprising members of the 1970s/80s doo-wap charttoppers Darts + actor Paul McGann (Withnail & I, Doctor Who, Luther, Holby City)
When Slapstick – the UK’s biggest festival of screen comedy – returns to Bristol with a 20th birthday edition from 12 to 16 February, hardly any of its celebrity guests nor thousands attending will guess how much the programme owes to south Bristol.
But the festival’s founder and main organiser, Chris Daniels, is a longtime resident of Somerset Road. And it’s a fact that, as ever, much of the festival’s planning and appearance-fixing work takes place at his home or in eateries along the Wells Road.
“The festival has got a small office within Aardman’s HQ but it saves a battle with traffic to work in places like Acapella or Arnos Vale’s café and useful to have good coffee within easy reach.”
In all, Chris and his team are putting on 35 events for Slapstick 2025, with live visits from more than a dozen showbiz stars including Martin Freeman, Meera Syal, Harry Enfield, Stephen K. Amos, Lucy Porter and Rick Wakeman.
To view the full line-up, go to www.slapstick.org.uk
TO ENTER
For your chance to win two tickets to the Slapstick 2025 festival, simply email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk, putting the words ‘Slapstick 2025 competition’ as your subject line, and tell us the answer to the following question:
Q. Which birthday is the Slapstick Festival celebrating this year?
PS! Don’t forget to include your name, address and contact details!
The closing date for receipt of entries is midnight on 31 January 2025.
The winner will be chosen at random. The prize is nontransferable, non-refundable and no cash alternative is available. Go to www.southbristolvoice.co.uk for the full T&Cs.
To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664
The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver
I heart comedy!
IT’S ALMOST February, hopefully there might be a little love in the air, but the days are still short, nights are far too long and it’s colder every year than I remember!
Yet, at least twice a week, I will find myself getting all wrapped up and heading out to a comedy show.
It can’t be coincidence that I have booked to see more comedy in January and February than ever before and I think there’s something about live comedy that brightens even the darkest nights and days, gets the endorphins going and shows us why we are so lucky to be in Bristol.
Bristol’s comedy scene at the moment is huge. We have just had the new Bristol comedy festival which if you happen to pick up this magazine at the end of January you might still catch. Featuring new acts and old favourites and a competition showing the very
best of Bristol talent funny, raw, edgy, exciting and you might catch the next big thing.
We are fortunate in Bedminster to be home to one of the jewels of Bristol’s comedy crown – Comedy Box.
In February alone we have Rob Newman, Marjolein Robertson and Connor Burns.
But every weekend at the Hen and Chicken studio, and occasionally the Tobacco Factory, we are treated to a weekly comedy line-up of some of the best comedians in the country.
At stand up for the weekend there is a medley of comics and I have never left without having a great night, liking all the acts and definitely loving some. Stepping into a warm, bustling comedy venue is like stepping into a different world.
The buzz of anticipation, the shared laughter, even the awkward silences
when a joke doesn’t quite land is all part of the magic.
I’ve always believed laughter is a kind of therapy, but this year it feels essential.
There’s something reviving about sitting in a room full of strangers, laughing at the same ridiculous joke.
At that time nothing else matters –not the to-do list waiting at home, not the endless headlines… just joy.
Words by Jacqui Ham
Karate
club are Welsh wonders Bears women set new record
MARTIAL ARTS: Bristol Karate Club in Totterdown enjoyed success in the Welsh Karate League last year. Three of the team took home the gold trophy as champions for their category, with a silver trophy also won by the club.
Danny Haynes claimed
a gold trophy for Kumite, Calvin Lee in Wado Ryu Kata and Jimmy Trott for Juruken. Trott also claimed a silver trophy for Kumite.
Several members of the team also competed in the boys u12 Team Kumite, coming third.
The club took part in six
Aye, aye skippers
CRICKET: Knowle Cricket Club have named their captains for the 2025 West of England Premier League season.
Oliver Haynes will be club captain, with Jake Haynes taking charge of the second XI. Neil Brown will captain the thirds, with Krish Kumar
looking after the fourth team. Sunday XI captain is Jacob Lambert, women’s XI Keely Magnusson and Knight Riders T20 XI Austin Empson. Thanks were expressed to outgoing fourth XI captain Nick Hammond and women’s captain Katie May Ratcliffe.
competitions over the year and throughout the season brought home 10 gold medals, 13 silver and 20 bronze.
Bristol Karate Club runs adult and children’s classes and beginners are welcome. For more details visit the www.bristolkarateclub.org. uk website.
To get your team or club included, please send your reports and news to: sbvsport@outlook.com The deadline for the next edition is February 3 but the earlier the better.
RUGBY UNION: A record-breaking Ashton Gate crowd saw Bristol Bears lose 40-17 to Gloucester-Hartpury in the Premiership Women’s Rugby competition. An incredible 9,240 spectators went through the turnstiles, a club and competition record. It eclipsed the previous record of 4,101, which was set against Harlequins in May 2022.
ATHLETICS: More than 700 people took part in the Ashton Court Parkrun on Christmas Day.
Jamie Williamson was first of 716 finishers across the line in the Christmas Day run, with the last one taking almost an hour. They varied in age from just 10 to 84,
with an equal mix of male and females.
The regular weekly 5K event attracts runners, joggers and walkers of all ages and is part of a global phenomenon that sees thousands of people take on the Saturday morning challenge. Between 300 and 500
people take part and both buggy-pushers and dog walkers can join, with times taken of anything up to an hour and a quarter. All runs start at 9am and are free to enter, but preregistration is required –visit the www.parkrun.org.uk website for details.
RUGBY UNION: Bristol Harlequins u11 girls are on the lookout for new players. Training is held every Thursday at Valhalla, BS4 5RG, 6-7pm.
A club spokesman said: “Whether you’re a seasoned player or trying rugby for the first time, we’d love to have you join our amazing team. Be part of a fun, supportive, and inclusive rugby family. For more details, call 07843 051721 or email info@bristol harlequins.com
Bristol Karate Club members and coaches are celebrating a successful year of competition.
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