southbristolvoice
Friends of Redcatch Park awarded Lord Mayor’s Medal
AT a presentation ceremony at The Lord Mayor’s Mansion held on 3 December, Friends of Redcatch Park chair Sian Ellis-Thomas and vice-chair Lesley Powell were invited to receive the Lord Mayor’s Medal for 2024.
The Lord Mayor’s Medal is awarded to highlight local, unpaid community work and achievement that has improved the lives of Bristol’s citizens.
Lord Mayor Andrew Varney commended Lesley and Sian for their campaign in 2022 to prevent a large temporary phone mast from being placed in the middle of the park and for the work that FORP has done since then to improve the park.
“We’re very passionate about Redcatch Park and it’s a great honour to get the Lord Mayor’s Medal. It means a lot to us, but it’s really for park volunteers everywhere who give their time to protect and improve our precious green spaces,” stated Sian & Lesley.
The success of the Residents
Against the Mast campaign subsequently led to Sian and Lesley resurrecting the ailing Friends group, which had diminished during Covid.
They’ve since worked tirelessly to improve the park for all its users. They organised The Redcatch Park Balloon Launch in 2023, the biggest event in its history, which attracted over 2000 visitors to the park. All this has helped put the park and
Knowle on the map and FORP is now a thriving group with 11 committee members, all adding value to the organisation.
Lesley is also a director of Redcatch Community Garden and, through dogged determination this year, successfully secured a new defibrillator for the park, working with the garden to provide the location and the Great Western Air Ambulance
southbristolvoice
southbristolvoice
Contacts
Ruth Drury Publisher 07590 527664
sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Cathy Parnham Editor news@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is noon on January 8, 2025.
COMPLAINTS
Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the South Bristol Voice, contact the Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code
Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 07590527664 southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure
All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission.
South Bristol Media Ltd | Co. no. 11948223 | VAT no. 322 3640 38
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
Follow us on social media:
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
Park ‘Friends’ awarded Lord Mayor’s medal
From Page 1
Charity to provide the unit. The unit is now in place in the park and the GWAAC will train members of FORP and members of the public in the new year.
This year also saw the successful refurbishment of the tennis courts, which will help secure them for years to come.
The rapidly dilapidating courts are now in a safe playing condition and have been very well used since they reopened. A planning application for floodlights to extend play during the darker months is underway.
Over the last two years, FORP has secured funds to provide additional picnic benches, noticeboards, and new equipment for the children’s playground. It is now working with Bristol City Council and aim to have these things in place during 2025.
Some of the funds earmarked for the park were allocated to Redcatch Community Garden to buy three all-weather shelters,
which have helped the garden attract more café users on wet days.
The garden is a fundamental part of the park, and although both organisations are run separately, they support each other and collaborate on everything possible.
Another collaboration was the WECA Pollinators Project, which the garden secured and then
allocated £8,000 to spend in the wider park.
FORP runs weekly volunteer maintenance sessions every Thursday in the park. Volunteers in hi-vis vests can be seen chopping, pruning and clearing.
They have big plans for next year, including a children’s nature path. They are also working on a five-year vision for the park, which will be informed
by surveys already undertaken and in collaboration with the Bristol Parks Department.
There are also plans for another balloon launch in the summer.
If anyone would like to volunteer with FORP, then please contact: hello@ friendsofredcatchpark.com
Please visit www. friendsofredcatchpark.com
Barcan+Kirby is your local law firm, with offices in Bedminster, Bishopston, Kingswood, Thornbury and central Bristol
Our friendly legal experts are always on hand to provide practical, common sense advice at a fair price.
If you’re looking for help with any of the services here, we’re the people to talk to.
We’re specialists in:
+ Buying and Selling
+ Family Law
+ Divorce + Separation
+ Wills, Trusts and Probate
+ Powers of Attorney
+ Dispute Resolution
+ Employment
+ Corporate + Commercial
+ Commercial Property
+ Medical Negligence
+ Personal Injury
+ Court of Protection
You have our best – every time
n PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Happy New Year
to everyone in South Bristol
I HOPE you are all having a wonderful time enjoying all the festivities.
In 2025 South Bristol Voice will be looking to embrace even more of the talent we have in the area, from authors and artists, to sports and drama performances.
We will also be looking at what the youngest members of our community have been getting up to in their day-to-day lives in our fantastic local schools, as well as
updating the community on the variety of building developments happening all around.
We will be bringing new columnists and lots more competitions to you, so keep reading and enjoy what 2025 brings.
Ruth
n NEWS Buildings sell-off delayed
PLANS to sell off at least six Bristol City Council-owned buildings in a “firesale” have been delayed amid mysterious “serious concerns” aired behind closed doors.
The properties include an eyesore covered in scaffolding in Bedminster’s main street that has shut the bus lane and forced pedestrians onto the street for six years,
An innovative project launched in 2018, called East Street Mews, had aimed to turn the site on Bedminster Parade into 11 flats for local homeless people, but this collapsed and all work has since stalled.
The building, formerly Sexton’s car audio store in the 2000s and then the Freak Street Studios which shut in 2015, is boarded up and hoarding is blocking the pavement.
As reported back in January, the property was found to be in a much worse condition than thought and was likely to have to be demolished instead of
refurbished, so the council hired a land agent to find potential development partners.
But councillors on the strategy and resources policy committee have now deferred selling off the building, along with at least five others –including a number that have not been identified because of commercial sensitivities –following a 28-minute discussion in private.
Immediately before the session which excluded the press and public, Labour group leader Cllr Tom Renhard proposed delaying a decision ahead of an impending review of the council’s buildings disposals policy by a taskforce, due to report back in January.
This was voted down by 6-3 votes, but when the meeting on Monday, November 18, reconvened in public, his suggestion was suddenly approved unanimously.
The exempt discussion followed a request by Cllr John
Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson
Goulandris (Conservative, Stoke Bishop) who said he had no issues with the five councilowned buildings listed in public papers but that he had a “serious concern” with those not listed in the public domain.
Bristol City Council adult services has asked for three of the other four named sites to be sold on the open market to a registered provider to develop them for supported housing.
These are Summerhill Centre in Summerhill Road, East Bristol Intermediate Care at Summerhill Terrace, both in St George, and Jubilee Hall, Wedmore Vale, Knowle.
There were no internal local authority requests to repurpose Delaware House in West Town Lane, Stockwood, which was also proposed to be sold off, as is the case with the Bedminster Parade building.
None of them were deemed suitable for council housing.
Those five properties, all currently vacant, would earn the council at least £2.1 million in total, plus £120,000 savings in utilities and business rates, although it would lose
n ADVERTORIAL
southbristolvoice
£75,000 in rent. A report to the committee said: “Given the scale of the capital receipts it is clearly in the financial interests of the council to dispose of these assets.”
Last February, full council approved the annual budget including a target of £21.6million selling off some of its buildings in 2024/25.
But the committee last Monday was told that the authority was set to fall short of that by £6million.
Cllr Renhard said: “We have set up a task-and-finish group
Running into 2025
New Year’s Resolutions start with good intentions but rarely last long because they are not sustainable. Luckily we know a thing or two about running and have some top tips to ensure you stay on track with your running goals.
1. Set Specific and Realistic Goals – avoid goals that are too ambitious and broad. Rather than saying “I’m going to run more” or “I’m going to run a marathon”, set smaller achievable goals like “I’m going to run three times per week”.
2. Join a Run Group – running with others is more enjoyable and keeps you accountable by committing to meet up. Exercising with others lowers emotional, mental and physical stress levels.
3. Remember your ‘WHY’ Focus on the reason you set your resolution and your emotional connection to it when motivation lowers. Visualise that positive future self and the benefits of sticking with it.
4. Embrace Variety – repetition
is a good way to create a habit but can get boring and lower motivation. Mix up run routes, distances, intensities, terrain, time of day and groups to bring some novelty to your routine.
5. Consistency is King – little and often is more sustainable. Rather than smashing out a long run and then being exhausted for the rest of the week, commit to two or three shorter runs during the week. Create a habit and then gradually increase.
6. Reward Yourself – go easy on yourself and enjoy the small wins! Wearing the right shoes for you and clothing that is suitable to the conditions will make the whole experience more comfortable enjoyable. And don’t forget reflectivity while the days are still short!
that’s about to start meeting and this seems premature to be bringing further assets for disposal when we’re about to review our process around the disposal of assets.
“If we don’t need to proceed with this now, why are we proceeding with this now when we’re due to review our process anyway?”
Finance director Tony Kirkham replied: “It’s in line with your current set of policies, so we’re following through on those policies.
“The council will need these
capital receipts either in the current financial year or next year in order to meet its costs.
“They meet the policy and we are taking them through the process as per normal.”
Cllr Renhard said: “This could have come to the committee in January for consideration once the work of the group has concluded.
“We are about to review a process.
“As a [Labour] group we feel quite strongly that we should not be preempting that with further disposals of public assets.
“The point is that it’s not delaying it for years; it’s about a two-month pause while we do our work as a task-and-finish group.
“Proceeding with this today undermines the whole purpose of that property task-and-finish group, gets rid of any goodwill and carries on a firesale of council assets, and I’ve not been convinced there is a financial need that it can’t wait two months while the group does its work.”
Words by Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter
Family rallies to support Thomas
ON 9 August 2024, just weeks before his 10th birthday, Thomas Fiore Woodward was diagnosed with B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer.
While Thomas started his treatment soon after his diagnosis, he has undergone numerous tests and scans, and the chemotherapy treatment has caused some complications along the way. “The once energetic and outdoorsy boy, who loved playing games with his friends and sister Clara, has become restricted to
his hospital bed for months,” said aunt Gianina Turner.
Doctors have told the family that the treatment could take a minimum of two years, with ongoing care and visits to hospital.
Thomas and his parents have had to spend over 80 days straight in hospital. This has been due to a reaction Thomas had from one of the chemotherapy drugs that was meant to help him.
The chemotherapy has made Thomas’ body weaker and more frail – so much so that he was unable to climb stairs or walk unaided, and required a wheelchair to get about. It has been devastating for his family to see their boy become a shadow of his former self.
Victoria, Thomas’s mum, said: “Thomas is a lovely caring little boy, who has so much to offer the world. He always wants to make others happy and is the most loyal of friends. He enjoys nature and animals – especially
academic. It is horrid to see his sparkle dim.”
His mum and dad, Richard (known as Bertie), have been by his side every day. This has meant taking extensive leave from work. With Bertie being self-employed, this has impacted greatly on the family income.
Thomas’s family have rallied together to help Thomas and his family through these difficult times. Paul Woodward, Thomas’s uncle, has set up a GoFundMe page to raise financial support for the family.
Paul said: “With Bertie being self-employed, the donations have helped give them the much-needed financial breathing space to continue to be by Thomas’ side 24 hours a day.”
Donations have come from family members, friends, and people from the wider community, and at the time of going to press, they had raised £17,700. Other family members have set up collections by selling raffle tickets for a Christmas hamper and scratch cards via social media.
Dad Richard said: “All I can say is I’ve seen miracles happen in that hospital and there are no words that can truly express our gratitude to all the people who have helped us get to where we are today. We’ve had pain laughter, excitement, sheer terror, to then being overjoyed.”
Recently, Thomas’s condition has started to improve. Paul Woodward said: “The last few weeks we have seen the old
Thomas coming back. He’s having school lessons in his hospital room, with visits to the playroom and outdoor area, and even in the snow! He is doing amazing with his physio. He’s able to sit up by himself and walk small distances whilst aided by the team. This has given Thomas a massive boost and raised everyone’s spirits.”
Richard and Victoria are hoping that Thomas will be well enough to spend Christmas in the family home. After spending such a long time in hospital, it would give him a massive boost to be back home with his family, surrounded by his favourite things.
The family are extremely grateful for the support they have received over the past few months. The funds raised will help ease the financial burden, so they can focus entirely on Thomas’ recovery and continue to be by his side 24 hours a day.
If you would like to support Thomas’ family, please visit https://gofund.me/b94a0cf4
Words by Gianina Turner
wolves – and gaming, and he is very
n NEWS
Petition to save athletics
KNOWLE Community Party is urging residents to help save athletics in south Bristol from demolition.
Whitchurch Athletics Track opened back in 1973, where, said the group, “countless up-andcoming athletes from South Bristol and the wider area trained and achieved great success through the facilities it offered”.
The facility is no longer used by athletes but, said the group, “We want to change this and not only see the track fully restored but also used to benefit the community and wider area for present and future generations.
“Regenerating Whitchurch Athletics Track will provide a much-needed space for physical activity, fostering talent in young athletes while promoting health and wellbeing in our community. It will also be a hub for youth work.
As we went to press, the group had almost hits its target of 5,000 signatures.
n LOCAL SCHOOLS ASHTON GATE PRIMARY NEEDS YOU
“THE weather outside is frightful, and the warm optimism the Children of Ashton Gate Primary School is sooo delightful!” Wishing you a Merry Christmas from Ashton Gate Primary School PTA! We’re the charity that raises funds for the Outstanding school.
Ashton Gaters have contributed to the spirit of BS3 for generations. Yet with heating costs spiralling, and coach prices skyrocketing, there’s less budget left to replace books, playground chalks, or equipment that makes a difference to little Bristolians' daily life.
Please visit www.ashton gatepta.co.uk/donate to see how you, or someone you know, could help the kids. We’ve an Amazon Wishlist, JustGiving page, you can even select us as your Great Bristol Run charity.
This article was sponsored by local data science company Bayes Price.
We’d welcome other businesses who’d like to help. www.ashtongatepta.co.uk
South Bristol Voice is also
WOULD you like South Bristol Voice delivered straight to your inbox – 4 days before it hits the streets?
We can now deliver your local paper electronically. Why not subscribe now? For the first 100 people to sign up, it costs just £5 for 12 issues, and £8 after. To sign up, just scan the QR code below
n LOCAL SCHOOLS
Will Writing
Meet with a local professional and receive full guidance and support.
Family & Property Trusts
Ensure your loved ones receive the maximum benefit by protecting your estate with trusts.
Lasting Powers of Attorney
Probate Services
Our specialists help make a difficult time as stress-free and straightforward as possible. Give someone the power to make decisions on your behalf, no matter what happens.
n LOCAL SCHOOLS
MERRY CHRISTMAS and Happy New Year from all the team at Northleaze Primary School!
AS WE reflect on the wonderful variety of experiences that have enriched our school community over the past term, we would like to share with you a selection of events and achievements that have marked our journey at Northleaze Primary School.
Our Year 5 pupils embarked on an exciting residential adventure to Charter House in the Mendip hills, where they immersed themselves in a range of challenging activities. From scaling heights in climbing sessions to navigating subterranean passages while caving and gorge walking, our pupils demonstrated remarkable resilience and camaraderie. The experience was nothing short of amazing for the children.
Our school’s connection
to the wider community was poignantly demonstrated as we joined with our service children to commemorate Remembrance Day at the Long Ashton War Memorial. In school, we held a Service of Remembrance for the rest of our pupils with a silence to provide an opportunity for
reflection and gratitude. Our festive celebrations have been numerous and joyous. The Reception and Nursery Nativity was delightful and brought many tears to the eyes of the audience, our Year 1 and 2 Christmas performance was filled with music and joy, and Key Stage
2 Carol Service showcased the talents and hard work of our pupils and, in particular, our choir. What a wonderful way to end the term!
The festive season brought with it a cultural treat as our entire school community ventured to the Bristol Institute of Performing Arts for a captivating performance of Rapunzel.
This whole-school excursion not only entertained but also inspired our pupils, exposing them to the magic of live theatre. Telephone: 01275 540077 Email: office@northleazeschool. co.uk Website: www.northleaze.nsomerset.sch.uk
Local schools urged to join breakfast club rollout
BRISTOL schools are being urged to sign up for a free breakfast club rollout.
Councillor Tom Renhard, Leader of the Bristol Labour Group, is urging local schools to sign up to join the 750-school ‘early adopter’ rollout of the government’s new free breakfast club programme.
Families in Bristol will soon be able to access 30 minutes of quality childcare ahead of the start of the school day as the government pushes ahead with free breakfast clubs across the country. Schools in Bristol can now apply to become one of 750 early adopters in the government’s free breakfast club rollout, with clubs to launch from April 2025.
Labour’s Tom Renhard said: “Free breakfast clubs are great for parents, great for kids, and great for our economy too… they make it easier for busy mums and dads to make the time for
work and dropping off the kids, they ensure children don’t start school hungry, and they help families with the cost of living too.
“This is a huge opportunity for local schools to get in early and start reaping the benefits of free breakfast clubs from April next year.”
HUGE
The breakfast clubs form part of the government’s mission to break the unfair link between
background and opportunity. Delivering change that can be felt by working people, early adopters will offer all children at their school access to a free breakfast and at least 30 minutes of free before school childcare, every day.
This action to kick-start the programme comes fast after the Budget, which tripled investment in breakfast clubs to over £33 million for
2025-26, supporting the early adopter scheme as well as the continuation of the National School Breakfast Club Programme next year, so no child faces a cliff edge on current provision.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “This is a landmark opportunity for schools to be in the vanguard of change, as we build back the foundations of an education system that breaks the link between children’s background, and the opportunities they have in life.
“From helping with flexible working for families, to improving behaviour and attendance, the supportive start to the day that breakfast clubs provide will help drive high and rising standards for every child. This government is delivering change that will make a real difference to families up and down the country.”
n ADVERTORIAL
Make sure you stay well this January
IT can be a tough time of year: Christmas is over, the festive lights are down, it’s cold, dark and often raining. It’s also the time of year when winter illnesses are rife, so it’s important to look after ourselves.
Combatting the winter blues can be fun though and it’s particularly important for older people to stay well – our immune systems decline with age and the cold can further suppress immunity. As you get older, you often feel the cold more than when you were younger. The cold can also exasperate health related symptoms and problems. Research has shown that 52% of older people are concerned or very concerned about winter. Whilst it can be impossible to avoid getting ill there are things
we can all do to try and stay well over the deep winter months:
Keep moving: some movement now and then is a great way to help you keep warm and stay positive, as well as helping to maintain strength and mobility. Maybe you can do a kitchen disco while waiting for the kettle to boil or walk around during an advert break. Get out for a walk in fresh air if possible, take advantage of any sunshine that comes our way. Maybe combine a walk to a local club or start a new activity to kick off the new year.
Eat well: try and prepare varied, nutritious meals with plenty of vitamins. Warming foods and hot drinks can help so
enjoy comfort foods like soups, stews and teas.
Stay warm: energy is expensive but try and make sure your home is warm enough or go to a local warm space to stay warm. Block out drafts, use hot water bottles and if you have rooms you don’t use, turn the radiators off and shut the doors to save on energy bills. During the day, keep the curtains open to allow the day’s warmth in but close them when the sun goes down. It is recommended by the NHS that you should heat your home to at least 18 degrees C, between 18 and 21 degrees is ideal. If you’re struggling to heat your home because of a low income, get in touch with Age UK Bristol to find out if there is help available to maximise your income to spend on heating. Call our Helpline 0117 929 7537 or email advice@ ageukbristol.org.uk. Try to stop the spread of germs: getting vaccinated helps
protect you from winter bugs like flu and Covid, but there are some other simple habits that can also help, such as regular handwashing, using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, wearing a face mask in busy places and avoiding close contact with anyone who is unwell.
Look out for other people: take notice of friends and neighbours and check in on people that you may not have seen or heard from for a while. Many people can find winter challenging for mental health and so it’s particularly important to look out for one another.
Calling for a chat, popping in for a cuppa or even sending a card in the post can really help let someone know you’re thinking about them.
And if you know someone who is unable to get out and about: tell them about Age UK Bristol’s free phone group. We meet weekly for group chats with others.
For more information call 0117 929 7537 or email linkage@ ageukbristol.org.uk.
With thanks to the Centre for Ageing Better.
Bristol Mindfulness Therapy
Are you looking for a safe, supportive space to explore life’s challenges?
I offer one-to-one psychotherapy in BS3 to help you develop mindfulness, clarity and resilience, and to make meaningful changes in your life.
Ready to Take the First Step?
n HEALTH
NHS urges women to get cervical screening
WOMEN are being urged to come forward for cervical screening as new figures show more than five million are not up to date with their routine check-ups.
The NHS invites women for screening every three to five years depending on their age, or more frequently if the high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is detected, with the programme saving thousands of lives annually.
The NHS Cervical Screening Programme, England 2023-2024 annual report, just published by NHS England, found that 68.8% of 25- to 64-year-olds were screened within the recommended period of time, compared to 68.7% the previous year. Coverage was higher for 50- to 64-year-olds at 74.3% compared with 25 to 49-yearolds at 66.1%.
In 2023-24, everyone who was due a test – a total of 5.12 million individuals aged 25 to 64 in England – was invited to
book an appointment, and 3.25 million were tested during the year.
Last year, the NHS pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 by making it as easy as possible for people to get the lifesaving HPV vaccination and encouraging more women and people with a cervix to come forward for their cervical screening.
Earlier this month, the NHS set out reforms to fully digitise screening – by announcing the rollout of a new ‘ping and book’
service that will send alerts to phones to remind women they are due or overdue an appointment. The plans will begin with invitations for breast screening being sent directly through the NHS App, and be expanded to include cervical screening in Spring 2025.
NHS cervical screening helps prevent cervical cancer by using a highly effective test to check for HPV, which is found in over 99% of all cervical cancers and which may cause abnormal cells to develop in the cervix. These abnormal cells can, over time, turn into cancer if left untreated.
Women who are due a cervical screening appointment will receive invitation letters by post when it’s time to book. Appointments can be booked through GP practices and some
sexual health clinics also offer the service. Anyone who has previously received an invitation and been unable to attend shouldn’t wait for another invitation – you can still book a cervical screening appointment even if invited weeks, months or years ago.
Sue Mann, NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, said: “If we are to make real inroads into eradicating cervical cancer, it’s essential that everyone who is invited for screening comes forward when invited.
“If you have previously missed your appointment, do not hesitate to reach out to your GP practice or sexual health clinic to schedule a new one. Taking this proactive step could potentially save your life.”
For information on NHS cervical screening and how to book an appointment, go to www.nhs.uk/conditions/ cervical-screening
n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS
AS the vast majority of residents are well aware, significant changes are taking place in our area which is the location for several major regeneration proposals.
Last year a series of events called BS3 Beyond 2025 were facilitated by Action Greater Bedminster to help keep residents informed of proposed changes.
Amongst the key changes coming through are the proposals for a Liveable Neighbourhood scheme. Multiple engagement events have taken place at various locations in BS3, and the information gathered is now being collated ahead of presentation for further public engagement early next year.
Another major engagement affecting our area is the Western Harbour regeneration – following a series of public engagement events, the public feedback from these events along with further
I HAVE been reflecting on the steep learning curve I have been on since May, and the huge variety this job entails.
Highlights this month include planting bulbs with the Friends of South Street park, going to a meeting of the Bedminster Property Partnership to discuss unlocking buildings for long-term local benefit, and voting for Care Experience to be a local protected characteristic.
Every aspect of our work is affected by funding restraints and the awareness of the £51.6m gap in our budget. As hard as some of the decisions have been so far, we will have harder ones coming up.
We will also have to find a way of balancing our budget while
detailed analysis regarding infrastructure, flood defences, green spaces, road space usage and opportunities for housing and community facilities will result in outline proposals coming forward for public feedback in the New Year – probably around February.
Meanwhile, Tony and Christine visited some of the social housing and build-to-rent properties that have been completed at the Dandara development at Bedminster Green – it also allowed us to see some of the first homes to be connected to the District Heat Network providing low carbon heating for residents.
At the same time, we have been aware for some time that the overall level of social housing being provided across the whole Bedminster Green area is too low and we hope to be able to make a positive announcement regarding that very soon.
Ellie Freeman Green councillor Bedminster
making sure the most vulnerable are protected.
As your councillor, I will be listening to and advocating for you, as well as working to fund those opportunities that will make life better in our area.
By the time you read this, Pass the Parcel BS3 will have distributed around 400 bags of gifts to those in need in our neighbourhood.
I love being part of this project, knowing the joy it spreads. It is also a reminder of those who find this time of year hard.
I hope whatever your circumstances, you find some joy and peace over the Christmas period and I wish you a very Happy New Year.
WE were disappointed that in Bristol’s Quality-of-Life Survey, Windmill Hill ward has a significantly lower satisfaction “with the way the Council asks for views before it makes changes” at just 19% (the Citywide average is 29%). This is despite us both working hard to try and make sure local people are meaningfully involved in local consultations.
This is perhaps inevitable as Hereford Street being made one-way was not consulted on effectively; the wider Bedminster Green development is now accepted as having poor all round in-community engagement and participation; and unsympathetic development like the proposed redevelopment of the Bart Spices site was given permission despite massive opposition in Totterdown.
But we are optimistic for the New Year, as we build on the momentum already achieved
IN the run-up to Christmas, I have enjoyed attending local carol concerts and festivities.
Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade is always a highlight of winter and I am so glad that it is returning on 18 January.
It was great to see the installation of the new bus stops on South Liberty Lane. These bus stops are currently temporary, before permanent ones are installed. I’m pleased to have supported residents in getting these installed.
At December’s Full Council meeting I asked the Green/Lib Dem administration questions on accessibility at Parson Street railway station and on streetlighting.
On Parson Street, the council said that it will be carrying out engagement in the New Year on how accessibility at the station can
since the Committee system replaced the Mayor. The news of a compromise deal on Broadwalk (see Cam and Toby’s Knowle column) is a good start. Listening to the community helped us halt the unpopular proposal to close Bellevue Road.
Coming up next year: The huge response to the South Bristol Liveable Neighbourhood consultation gives us a great start – the next round of engagement is due in the spring; we are working hard with Christine and Tony (Southville Green councillors, left) in pursuit of a better deal on Bedminster Green ‘Plot 5’; and the Whitehouse Street framework, led by Ellie Freeman – now a Green Councillor – is beginning to see proposals coming forward. We will keep you informed in 2025. Meanwhile, Season’s Greetings and we wish you a Happy New Year.
Emily Clarke Labour councillor Bedminster
be improved before agreeing a list of priorities by spring. I have made my view clear – the top priority needs to be step-free access so all residents can access the station.
On streetlighting, I know that many people in Bedminster want better streetlighting and that women in particular often don’t feel safe walking home at night. The council is installing LED streetlighting across the city with adjustable brightness.
Currently, there is no system for residents to request changes in the brightness of streetlamps. I’m pushing for a clear process to be introduced but in the meantime, please get in touch if you’d like certain lights to be changed.
I know that January can be a really difficult month. Please reach out to someone if you’re struggling.
n NEWS
FROM BS3 COMMUNITY
– THE CHARITY THAT RUNS THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE AND THE CHESSEL CENTRE
BS3 Community Care
A fresh approach to finding support you can trust. Whether you need practical help at home, specialised care, companionship, respite or anything in between, we are here for you.
We are a unique local community initiative that offers affordable care and support - tailored to individual needs and requirements in the Greater BS3 area
From our carefully selected and vetted community of experienced care professionals, you will find just the right person to support and help you with any of the following:
- Home help
- Regular hourly care
- Overnight or live-in care
- PA support
- Companionship
- Respite for family carers
- Transport and trips
- Shopping and meals
- Pet care
- Gardening and DIY
- Other wellbeing or therapeutic services
Visit our website: www.bs3communitycare. org.uk
Contact us to find out more: 0117 923 1039 or care@bs3community.org.uk
TAG (Toddlers and Grandparents) group
TAG is a weekly drop-in playgroup with
n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS
WE are delighted to announce that a settlement has been reached regarding the Broadwalk redevelopment court case.
As part of the agreement, the developers will submit a revised planning application which significantly reduces the size of the proposals.
There will be a public consultation as the new proposals go through the planning process. We will work with residents and the developers to refine the plans further and get the best deal for the community.
This outcome is a huge win for people power and shows what can be achieved when people stand up for their neighbourhood.
Congratulations to everybody who has campaigned on this issue,
Cam Hayward and Toby Wells Green councillors Knowle
but particularly Laura and Helen whose dedication to the cause has made this possible.
We want to acknowledge that five people have been convicted for the murders of Max Dixon and Mason Rist on Ilminster Avenue. Nothing will change the fact that two families have lost their sons far too soon, but we hope the outcome will bring closure and the community can begin to heal.
We thank the police for their efforts to bring the criminals to justice.
As councillors, we will continue to tackle the root causes of serious youth violence in an effort to make our streets safer for everyone.
sessions suitable for children aged 1+ accompanied by a grandparent.
Join us for a range of fun activities including crafts, singing, sensory play and story time. Wednesday morning 10.45 am–12 noon, during term-time. Based in our Southville Centre, Beauley Road, BS3 1QG. Refreshments included. £3.50 for one adult and one child. No need to book – just drop in!
Note: Throughout school holidays our Play & Stay group runs 10.30am - 12pm, in place of BS3 Toddlers and our Toddlers & Grandparent Group.
LGBT+ FAB Café
Join our LGBT+ FAB Café meet up for over 55s. The group meets at The Tobacco Factory Bar in the snug, every Tuesday between 10.30am and 12pm.
Everyone is welcome. Free to attend. Just drop in.
For more information, please contact info@ bs3community.org.uk or 0117 9231039.
n NEW BUSINESS FEATURE
Anyone feeling enraged?
Ruth Drury finds out about the new rage painting trend…
WHERE’S the best place to go if you feel enraged and need to get things out of your system? Well, Splasherist, of course!
It all started in Bath as a place for people to express themselves both creatively and emotionally, both things Bernadette, the creator, struggled with growing up... “During my teenage years I had some behaviour issues and couldn’t manage my anger, so life was difficult at times.
“I studied art but didn’t see myself as having talent so gave up, but the world of abstract art appealed to me after a game of paintballing – just seeing the paint fly and explode wherever –and it inspired me as a way to be myself,” said Bernadette.
“I had the idea that it would be nice to let people have the space where you can paint without the worry about neatness or where things had to go or about ‘getting things wrong’. So I tested things out and had parties where friends came and they tried it out and everyone loved it.
“We found the studio where people can come and turn on the music like a house party and you can engage with the activity even if you might struggle to do so more formally.
“We encourage and support
everyone to be individual and unique and not worry about what others do – trying first on the walls before committing it to
canvas. Rage painting is a great conversation starter and gives a lot of freedom without precision and releases your pressure caps
to achieve anything unlike you’ve done before, along with family members and friends.”
With this in mind South Bristol Voice’s Ruth Drury gave it a whirl...
“Frustrations of parenting two teenagers firmly in mind, I began by sheepishly spreading a little background colour on my canvas creatively with my hands – not using a brush!
“However, after a few small apologies for dripping on the floor, and a reassurance from Bernadette that of course it was fine, I cranked up the music and started flinging the paint like mad... mostly at the canvas but several streaks at the wall and over myself letting out a fierce roar as I did so before giggling and looking around.
“I was alone so didn’t get the full effect of throwing paint at friends and sharing highs and lows, but at the end of the time slot I was emotionally and creatively exhausted.
“I’d shouted and laughed and created something that was me. It was a great way to get those feelings out in a light-hearted way without worrying, and I have signed up the whole family for a session this Christmas!”
Splasherist caters for all abilities and additional needs, offering accessible sessions as well as parties, hen and stag-dos and new splash dance sessions. Children’s parties are available with adult participant.
Blue light discount and group discounts are available (eight people+).
All paint and products are non-toxic with vegan products available. Sessions available from £35 for 50 minutes with choice of canvas plus protective clothing included.
Splasherist is located in Willway Street BS3 in the new up-and-coming units – Willway Yard, formerly Park Furnishers.
To book your session, contact www.splasherist.com/ bristol
n ADVERTORIAL
Community Sports
Hall – The Final Pieces of the
Jigsaw
TWO years on and The Park is thriving in its new, sustainable buildings and continues to be a vital hub for the communities it serves in Knowle and the surrounding areas.
Anyone who has visited will know that it is more than just a community centre: it is an amazing ecosystem of different groups of people who come together in the space.
Over 5,000 people use The Park each month; more than 20 charities, social enterprises and small businesses have made The Park their home; and over 20 community activities happen every week from special education courses and Pilates sessions to Olympics Oldies classes.
Last year, 80 young people unable to access mainstream education were taught at The Park.
The Sports Hall is a vitally
important part of The Park’s facilities, but if you’ve visited to take advantage of one of the classes held in it, you’ll know that this legacy of the old school building is very much in need of refurbishment and particularly to optimise its accessibility for the disabled people who regularly use our centre and who live in the wider community.
We are excited to be in the position now to embark on the second and final phase of our redevelopment project, modernising the very tired Sports Hall and extending the space to provide a new and expanded accessible gym, complete with brand new accessible changing rooms for all.
This is an important upgrade for Park Knowle Football Club run by local legend and disability inclusion champion Mike Alden, who won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Unsung Hero Award in 2022.
2025 will be a year of putting in place the pieces of the jigsaw to make this vision a reality and will see the launch of a major fundraising
Loft Boarding & Insulation
appeal. Phase 1 of The Park was generously supported by local people and charitable trusts and foundations, and the new buildings have been truly transformative.
As we move into this final stage, we look forward to keeping you updated on the progress of the appeal and the Inclusive Sports Hall project as we work towards providing our communities with the modern sports facilities they deserve.
The Park – it’s more than a community centre.
For more information, please contact: enquiries@ theparkcentre.org.uk
n HEALTH
Farrah Fortnam, local artist and fitness guru, is offering FREE fitness classes in the new year!
To help get us energised and out of our Yuletide slumps, Farrah is running her Dance and Yoga classes for anyone at Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian Street, 8-9pm every Friday (term time), starting on 10th January. Contact Farrah on farrahfortnam@gmail.com to book your free place. (Any donations welcome.)
Farrah told us: “I want to run free classes because I know how finances and moods can be very low in January after the winter holidays, and I know dancing and yoga help boost moods and fitness, so I want as many people to benefit from this. The joy must continue more than ever in January. It’s my gift back to the community that I love!’
So get your place now and we’ll see you there!
Community Café
Special Education Centre
Gym & Fitness Classes
Football Club
Youth Moves
Conference Rooms and more
0117 903 9770 | enquiries@theparkcentre.org.uk www theparkcentre org uk | Daventry Road, BS4 1DQ It’s more than a community centre
n WICKED WITCH
In witch I’m a coward
“I DON’T want her coming back, ever again,” dad shouted down the phone to me.
The carer (I shall call Annie from the 1990 classic film Misery), who had been popping over to sort mum out with her pills and helping her to get dressed most mornings, was now not welcome.
“I don’t like how she speaks to mum and the pooh was the final straw,” he raged. Mum had not wanted Annie to clean her that morning and, without her consent, Annie could not touch her. So, she stood and watched as my demented 90-year-old mum tried to sort herself out, and this resulted in a poop disaster zone.
Annie, snapping off her clean surgical gloves, merrily trotted off leaving my dad staring furiously at poopy bath towels.
“This never happens when I sort mum out. I want that girl gone,” he demanded.
I am a people pleaser, so this task was not welcome. I decided to do it the way my first
ever boyfriend dumped me at the age of 10. He wrote on a scrap of paper and threw it at me. The paper contained two words and the last was ‘off’.
Broke my young heart, he did.
Anyway, deciding to rip a leaf out of my coward first boyfriend’s book, I drafted an email to Annie but her email address was one of those no reply jobbies.
I sighed, pulled up my big girl pants and phoned her. The phone rang out. Right, this was good I could legitimately WhatsApp now. I copied the email into the WhatsApp and sent it.
Then my phone rang. It was her – all happy as she was away with her mates. “Did you get my message?” I said wondering why she sounded so chipper. “No, the signal is awful where I am,” was her reply. Damn it. “You’re fired,” I said and ended the call.
Well, that was easier than I thought.
Now they are fending for themselves. dad is in charge of the drugs and hygiene;
mum oversees getting herself dressed and wandering off. It’s a bit stressful.
To add to this madness, dad has now been diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. He was told to take a course of pills followed by an injection. He was reluctant to comply but I told him, “You can’t die yet, you need to look after mum.”
You’d think the injection would be nice and easy, just rock up to the surgery and be jabbed. Oh, no! The injection needed to be collected as a prescription and dad is expected to bring it along when they have time to jab him.
This package is now sitting on their coffee table and I know mum will end up either hiding it away somewhere or eating it.
Oh, I wish I lived nearer, and then I’m glad that I don’t, in equal measure.
Bristol window company named best in the South West
Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, was named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the recent G24 Awards in London.
The team were narrowly pipped to the ‘Best Installer’ gong, but were able to leave the English capital with a smile on their faces thanks to the ‘Best in the South West’ title.
The winners of G-Awards were announced at a glittering gala dinner at the Park Lane Hotel on November 29.
“Out of 12,500 companies across the UK, we made it to the last six! Best in the South West, narrowly being pipped to the UK title by another family-run independent business in Lancashire,” The Window Hub’s managing director Danny Robb said.
Bristol-based window installation company, The Window Hub, 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.
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.
As well as being open and honest,The Window Hub is keen to raise environmental awareness.
“All of our products will help homeowners reduce their energy usage because they are extremely
energy efficient,” Danny said. “We also buy the majority of our products from companies in the South West.
“When we remove old windows and doors, everything is recycled, and we are currently planting a tree for every customer at a wildlife park near where we are based.”
For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk
Bristol Exeter
Newton Abbot
n MESSAGE FROM POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER
I KNEW when I was elected as your Police and Crime Commissioner in May that I had four years to make a difference on your behalf.
For several months I have been gathering thoughts, ideas, and concerns from residents through my Police and Crime Plan consultation.
The response has been outstanding. More than 1,140 people shared their ideas for how the priorities I had outlined could be delivered.
The consultation was a huge thing to ask of the public, and I want to personally thank all of you who took the time to take part.
As well as all the responses I received through our online survey, my team and I reached out to our communities in lots of ways, through public forums across the area, a postal survey and numerous focus groups
represented voices so often missing from policing.
I am pleased to say that the Police and Crime Plan I developed following this feedback has now been accepted by the Police and Crime Panel for Avon and Somerset.
You can read the plan on my website at tinyurl.com/2zxte625.
The priorities outlined in my plan reflect the priorities raised with me throughout my time campaigning and since I was elected.
You told me your policing priorities are:
• Strengthening neighbourhood policing (including tackling anti-social behaviour)
• Reducing Violent Crime (particularly male violence against women and girls and serious youth violence)
• Prevention of crime
• Supporting victims
This plan is not about me making unrealistic promises. We all know it isn’t possible for me, or the police, to solve all the problems we face as a society in the remaining three and a half years of my term.
I do promise that this plan is about improving the way we work together, the collective impact we can have, about setting the conditions for success and laying the foundations for safer and more resilient communities now and for future generations to come.
Delivery of my plan will mean working with all the relevant partners, not just the police, to focus on prevention, intervention, diversion, engagement, education and opportunities to have a bigger impact – improving lives for all our communities.
This plan is a means to deliver change.
I will develop a plan of
action in the first months of this year, which will be continually refreshed throughout my time in office. This work will continue to benefit from hearing your views about what will make a difference in your community.
For me, being in politics is about making a difference. That is what I will continue to strive to do for you during 2025, and for the remainder of my time in office.
n LOCAL CHARITY
Charity seeking volunteers to work with families
VOLUNTEERS are needed at Home-Start Bristol and South Gloucestershire to support local families with under-5s who are going through tough circumstances.
The charity is looking for volunteers who can spare two hours a week to offer families a listening ear, guidance and practical support. “Our volunteers are generally parents themselves so understand some of the pressures of family life,” said a charity spokesperson.
The next volunteer training course starts on 23 January 2025 and runs every Thursday 9.30am – 2.30pm til 6 March in Southmead (with a break for half term). You will receive training and support from the charity staff team.
HomeStart is looking for volunteers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire, but especially wants to hear from those in South Bristol.
To find out more, visit homestartbsg.org.uk or email admin@homestartbsg.org.uk or call on 0117 950 1170.
n NEWS FROM BRISTOL SOUTH MP KARIN SMYTH
Bringing jobs to South Bristol
NEXT month I am hosting my eighth Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair. Since I started hosting these Fairs in 2017, in conjunction with the City of Bristol College and the Department for Work and Pensions, we have seen hundreds of people from south Bristol and their families meeting a wide range of local employers offering apprenticeships and job opportunities.
As I have said in these articles before, young people from south Bristol too often have fewer chances to access the opportunities in this city, and that is why I am determined to bring employers to south Bristol so that those in our community are aware of the options available to them.
We know that the pandemic has compounded existing issues for many families, and this is shown in the increase in rates of persistent absence. Ofsted’s 2023/4 annual report came out just before Christmas, and showed that children in Bristol had the highest persistent absence in the South West, and were in the top 10 highest absent rates in the country. It also showed that the number of people starting apprenticeships each year has been falling.
In these challenging circumstances, it is so important that young people know about all the options available to them. That is why I am pleased that we have so many employers joining us at the 2025 Jobs and
Apprenticeships Fair, which is taking place at the South Bristol Skills Academy on Thursday 27 February. If you or your employer has vacancies and would like to have a stand at next year’s event, do contact my office as there are a few places left.
In the past we have had roles offered from employers as diverse as Jeff Way, Firstbus, the NHS, local providers in the care sector, and many more. Please do come along to find out about how to get training, find a job, develop your existing career or move to a new one. There will also be support services available to speak to about careers options.
I look forward to seeing you
Karin Smyth shares her views with the Voice
ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams
BEDMINSTER Pharmacy now offers effective injectable therapies for
Healthy Weight Loss
30% of the UK Adult population is obese or overweight, and this is not because they are not making efforts to address this. Losing weight can make you look and feel better, building selfesteem and confidence.
Importantly, if you are overweight, losing weight has many health benefits. It might help reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Making small, simple changes to what and how much you eat and drink can help you
and be more active.
In recent years, innovative injectable therapies such as Mounjaro (tripeptide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) have been delivering safe transformative by helping to reduce appetite and fight cravings, they have been shown to help yield double-digit body weight reductions. On average, Mounjaro users saw a weight reduction of 18% for the 84-week study, while patients on Wegovy saw a weight reduction of 15% at 68 weeks.
a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity can be transformative changes for some patients - helping them overcome long-standing weight loss struggles.
Bedminster Pharmacy has been following developments on these medicines, especially how NHS policy has shaped the safe and ethical role of novel treatments like this; we will always prioritise patient safety and have taken our lead from NHS advice and evidence.
A key part of long-lasting weight loss is offering necessary weight management support in a personalised manner. This is a model of care that already defines us.
Both have been approved by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency MHRA for use in weight management.
Alongside behaviour support,
Why not book a private weight management option consultation with us? We will discuss your journey, assess and understand you better, and aim to determine your best options, including whether these new therapies are suitable and safe. Call us today at 0117 985 3388.
Is weight loss one of your pet’s New Year resolutions?
RECENT studies estimate that around 60% of pet cats and 59% of pet dogs are overweight or obese.
Obesity is when your pet has too much body fat and it then starts to have a negative impact on their health, welfare and quality of life.
Pet obesity can cause serious health problems, and make existing ones worse, and this can shorten the length and quality of your pet’s life.
It also predisposes pets to conditions such as:
l Diabetes
l Heart disease
l Respiratory disease
l High blood pressure
l Cancers
Body weight is easy to measure when assessing if your pet is overweight or obese They are considered obese when they
weigh 20% or more above their ideal body weight.
Here are some signs to look out for in both cats and dogs:
l Ribs
Overweight pets have a layer of fat covering their ribs, which makes them difficult to see or even feel.
l Spine
A ‘fat pad’ will cover their back.
l Tummy
Your pet’s tummy will bulge out and sag downwards, which may wobble or sway when they move.
l Face, legs and neck
Obese cats and dogs can get fat pads in these areas.
Here are our tips on how you can help your pet in the quest to attain a healthy weight in five easy steps:
1. Food and portion control –
use a specific nutritional product designed for healthy and safe weight loss and feed the correct amount as per the manufacturer guidelines
2. Exercise – there are so many benefits of regular exercise for your pet and the aim is to get your pet moving each day. For some pets e.g. brachycephalic (short nosed) breeds or older pets, you will need to tailor exercise to what they are capable of and build up to longer walks slowly. Try playing interactive games with your cat, with a feather or toy mouse for instance, and feed them on elevated surfaces and in different locations around your home.
3. Treats - snacks and treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calorie intake. Whatever treats you give, be sure to count those additional calories.
4. Look for diseases and get them treated – although most
of the weight gain in cats and dogs is caused by over-feeding and not enough exercise, there are some medical conditions that can contribute to obesity in pets. Fortunately, most of these diseases and illnesses can be treated.
We run ‘weight watcher’ clinics with our nursing team here at Bristol Imperial Vets4Pets and can give an array of tips to help to keep your pet in tip top condition.
n BS3 WILDLIFE
Local Nature Reserve
By Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3 Wildlife Group
APART from being the northern boundary of the Greater Bedminster urban nature reserve, the New Cut is itself recognised as a local nature reserve. Opened in 1809, this waterway is not really ‘new’. Indeed, its banks and bridges are currently undergoing major repairs, but for wildlife it’s a special feature of the city centre.
Within its nearly two-mile length and c40 acres you can find salt marshes; a scrubby woodland, especially along the south bank; a range of geological strata; constantly changing tides with a gap of up to 12 metres; and various seabirds feeding on molluscs and other creatures buried in the mud.
Among unusual plants is the ivy broomrape which gives the Friends of the Avon New Cut (FrANC) its logo. This plant is parasitic on ivy roots and the cut is a significant site for it. FrANC is keen to preserve its wildlife status and is preparing a report on its current biodiversity.
Observations over the years suggest c19 butterfly species, a few in reasonable numbers, but others just occasional sightings; over 30 tree species, mostly ‘native’ but a few imported on trading ships; and over 20 bird species.
Some of these birds, such as herring gulls and robins, may be seen across Bristol, but others such as mallard, cormorants, moorhen, Canada geese and redshank will rarely venture into streets, gardens or public parks. They are part of our inner city nature reserve only because of the cut and the nearby floating harbour.
Contact: mywildbedminster@virginmedia.com
(Above) Image taken this year by Laura Demery of birds to be found in or near the Avon New Cut.
Brian stars in dazzling panto
THE performance of Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the Bristol Hippodrome was a dazzling reminder of why pantomime remains such a cherished Christmas tradition. Headlined by the incomparable Brian Conley, the production delivered a delightful blend of old-fashioned charm, vibrant spectacle, and laugh-out-loud comedy that had the audience hooked from start to finish.
The sets were breathtaking, with colourful backdrops and larger-than-life props creating a magical world that perfectly captured the festive spirit. From the whimsical Three bears cottage scenes to the phenomenal elephant ride moment, every detail added to the sense of wonder.
The costumes were equally spectacular –bold, bright, and bursting with personality, they added an extra layer of fun to the already high-energy performances.
Brian Conley was, as expected, the heart and soul of the show. Armed with his signature catchphrase (“It’s a puppet!”) and plenty of cheeky wit, he had the audience in stitches throughout.
His effortless charm bridged the gap between generations, keeping both kids and adults thoroughly entertained. It was clear
he relished every moment, and his infectious energy set the tone for the evening. What made this pantomime truly special was its focus on tradition. Younger audience members were invited on stage, their adorable antics bringing an extra dose of warmth to the performance. The classic singalong was another highlight, uniting the audience in festive cheer and sending everyone out the door humming with smiles on their faces.
With its perfect mix of slapstick comedy, audience interaction, and festive magic, Goldilocks and the Three Bears was an ideal way to kick off the Christmas season. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, this show delivers everything you could want from a traditional panto. It’s pure holiday joy—and a night to remember. Goldilocks and The three Bears is at the Bristol Hippodrome until 5 January. Tickets from £13 at ATG.com
southbristolvoice
n WHAT’S ON
Until 19 January
n HANSEL AND GRETEL Evening performances 7pm. Matinee performances 2pm. Tickets from £16; concessions from £12; Give the gift tickets, from £20. Family Ticket Offer: (4 tickets inc at least one child ticket) 15% off. Tickets via tobaccofactorytheatres.com or 0117 902 0344. Enjoy this mythical and magical fairy-tale by the Brothers Grimm.
20-22 December
n ARNOS VALE CEMETERY Kids
Activities: Dome Club Planetarium, Christmas Special 20-22 December
21 December
n REDCATCH COMMUNITY GARDEN TABLE GARLAND WORKSHOP, 10am-12pm. £35 (limited spaces). Make your biodegradable festive table decoration, while enjoying festive treats and mulled cider. www. trybooking.com/uk/DXUV
Sunday 22 December 2024
n Christmas Special by Candlelight, St Georges, 7.30pm. Tickets from £15 via https://bit. ly/4g8FXug
The Military Wives join the Bristol Ensemble for an uplifting programme of Christmas classics that will get you singing and clapping along. A perfect way to get into the Christmas mood.
22 & 23 December
n Santa & Sven, Hen & Chicken, North Street, Bristol. Sunday @ 4.30pm/Monday 23 December @ 12.30pm and 2pm. Show length: 50 minutes. Tickets £14.25 via https:// bit.ly/49gnkli Bristol actor Stewart Wright will bring Father Christmas to life with his magical Christmas show. Families can expect music, sleigh bells, sack loads of Christmas surprises, and – of course – a sprinkling of Christmas magic.
7 December – 5 January
n GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS Bristol Hippodrome. Tickets from £13.00 subject to a transaction fee of £3.95. A festive extravaganza packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, and hair-raising stunts!
18 January
n SOUTH BRISTOL SKILLS ACADEMY OPEN EVENT, 10am – 1pm. The Boulevard, Bristol BS14 0DB. Find out about the college,
courses and facilities. Meet staff and talk about your next steps. Courses include: Beauty Therapy; Bricklaying; Construction and the Built Environment (including T Level and HE); GCSE English and Maths; uniformed services, sports; & more!
22 January
n Jubilee Pool open meeting, at 7:00pm. This is an opportunity for members and supporters to come together, discuss progress, and share ideas for the future of the Pool.
25 January
n The Patchwork Community Gardening Group is holding its annual Wassail on the Myrtle Street Orchard (behind the Tesco on North Street) on Saturday 25 January from 2-4pm. There will be music, poetry, mulled cider and cakes and a chance to welcome in the new year and wake up the trees for the new growing season. For more information email bemmiepatchwork@gmail.com
First Wednesday of the month n SOUTH BRISTOL GARDENING CLUB, St Paul’s Church, Coronation Road, Southville. Annual membership £25. A friendly club and new members are very welcome. Club members enjoy free regular talks from expert speakers and subsidised visits to gardens throughout the year. To join, go to https://bit.ly/3w6xjKB
Thursdays
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
First Saturday of the Month n WINDMILL HILL MARKET, 10.00am til 3.00pm, now til December. Showcasing a variety of handmade items such as ceramics and pottery, clothing, accessories, homeware and décor, jewellery, prints and illustrations. Plus, street food, local food drink produce, slow fashion and more.
nCHURCH NEWS
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
n THEATRE REVIEW
HANSEL & GRETEL
If you’ve never watched a Christmas show at the Tobacco Factory – go get yourself some tickets ASAP.
The setting is always beautiful with minimal effort involved – this time just a few wintery trees, some snow and a metal bed but the atmosphere created was perfect.
Hansel and Gretel were alternatively played by dolls and two actors yet the sympathy you felt for them was just as strong regardless who they were at any point.
The parents’ roles were refreshed for a modern audience and the madness of hunger was hilariously
portrayed by Papa – what a talent for insanity he has.
The old lady was very funny without terrifying the younger audience and played her role brilliantly, too.
We were laughing throughout, loving the local references, the great audience interactions and the wonderful musical talents of the entire cast – swapping instruments as needed. I’ve been recommending to everyone I’ve seen – such a great show and the perfect way to kick-start Christmas Showing at Tobacco Factory Theatre until Jan 19th. For info, go to https://bit.ly/4irLrBQ
The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver
Unforgettable Live Theatre: Creating Memories for 2025
AS WE step into a new year, I find myself reflecting on the productions of the past and eagerly anticipating those yet to come.
What is it about theatre that stays with us long after the curtain falls? It is a preserver of stories, a unique collective experience, and a creator of memories.
In South Bristol, where local history and culture run deep, theatre plays a special role in safeguarding memories while forging new ones. Fittingly, the first performance at the Tobacco Factory Theatre in 1998 was A Journey to Bristol by Show of Strength – a piece that wove together tales of 18th-century Bristol, intertwining the city’s past with its emerging cultural future.
Acta Theatre, another cornerstone of South Bristol’s creative landscape, brings untold stories to the stage, ensuring that voices often overlooked are heard. Their work with older residents and young carers has transformed personal memories and experiences into powerful performances. These stories, which might otherwise be forgotten, find new life on stage, inspiring audiences and creating connections across generations.
Meanwhile, venues like The Hen and Chicken Studio offer a different yet equally memorable experience. Its Comedy Box hosts stand-up performances every weekend, where no two nights are ever the same. Touring comedians bring their routines, but each show is uniquely shaped by the intimate venue and the shared energy of the audience. For the 100 people laughing together in that small room, the evening becomes a memory that’s theirs alone.
What makes theatre and live performance so effective at creating lasting memories is their transient nature. Unlike a film, book, or social media post, a live performance exists only in the moment. When the performers take their final bow, that particular version of the story disappears forever, making every show a once-in-a-lifetime event.
This fleeting quality is what gives theatre its magic. Knowing that what you’re witnessing is unique and unrepeatable makes the experience more vivid, imprinting it deeply in your memory. Live performance demands you to be in the moment – change to
the constant noise of recorded and replayable content that surrounds us in the digital age.
In a world where so much is captured, archived, and streamed, the memories we create in the theatre feel refreshingly different. They are about feeling, connection, and the simple act of being present.
So as 2025 unfolds, I invite you to join me in making new memories through live performance. Whether it’s a moving drama, a hilarious comedy night, or an experimental piece pushing boundaries, South Bristol’s theatres offer experiences that will stick with you long after the final applause.
Let’s step into a new year of unforgettable stories.
Jacqui Ham
For younger readers
n LOCAL SPORT
Getting back on court at The Park
BASKETBALL: The team behind Lazy Sports have been getting people from the couch to the court in South Bristol for more than 10 years and are on the lookout for new members to make 2025 their biggest yet.
Maybe you used to play basketball at
school or just haven’t been on the court in a while? Maybe you’ve been struggling to get your own group together and other clubs look intimidating? Perhaps you’re just looking for something active and social to improve your physical
Football artistry in action at Brislington
FOOTBALL: Someone once said football was the beautiful game. That is certainly the case at Jewson Western League club Brislington, where their latest two signings have added real artistic flair to the club.
Veteran duo Ken Borg and Jonathan Kelham have agreed to a three-season volunteer deal and promise to draw on their vast experience to add new dimensions to the off-field activities at Ironmould Lane.
Graphic designer Borg and artist Kelham have been appointed designer and artist in residence and the two Briz supporters will develop several projects, supporting visual improvements at the ground.
The collaborator’s first project is the refurbishment of the 150-capacity Colin Arnold Grandstand. The residency has already received support from Proper Job and the Wickes Community Programme to begin the refurbishment.
Fans, groundhoppers and visitors get the chance see the new stadium improvements at the highly anticipated Boxing Day home fixture when Brislington host title-chasing Portishead Town, 1.30pm.
and mental health?
Whatever the reason, Lazy Sports aims to provide a unique and accessible sports experience to inspire individuals to embrace the joy of sports, improve their physical fitness, and enhance their overall quality of
Ken Borg and Jonathan Kelham have joined Brislington
Borg said: “Design is an essential tool for any organisation but for many community groups and lower league sports clubs is out of reach due to limited resources and funding. With this residency we hope to help the board project the club into a new era, reaching new fans and embed its position within the local community.”
Kelham added: “The combination of football and visual arts mean this residency is like a dream. The intersection between football culture and visual art, situated in a football club, is an exciting and unusual opportunity.”
Club chairman Jack Rogers is looking forward to working with the duo and said: “This innovative partnership represents an exciting chapter as we look toward our 70th anniversary in the 2026/27 season. Ken and Jonathan are loyal supporters and bring a unique blend of expertise and creativity to Ironmould Lane. Their ambitious plans align perfectly with our vision to strengthen ties with the community, enhance the matchday experience, and secure a bright future for the club.”
“I have no doubt that their passion and vision will bring lasting benefits to the club, and I encourage everyone – supporters, players and the wider community – to join us on this journey.”
life. Gareth Hodgkinson, of Lazy Sports, said: “We run four social, inclusive, enjoyable basketball sessions a week at The Park, where members are hitting the court and enjoying sport at their own pace, without the pressure of intense competition.
Visit the www. lazysports.co.uk/play website to book online and enjoy a free trial pass and try out two free sessions, pay-to-play at any upcoming session, or buy a Lazy Sports membership to get the best value.
National recognition for judo club members
MARTIAL ARTS: It has been a busy period for Bedminster Judokwai, who are based at Ashton Vale Community Centre.
At the British Judo Awards in Coventry, four members were nominated for awards. Archie Hawkins was nominated for club volunteer of the year for the hours he volunteers as the club’s secretary and assistant coach. He was then joined by two other young club members, Ben and Sam Barker, for the young volunteer of the year award, in recognition of the many hours they volunteer at the club, in addition to their own training.
Club coach Paul Taylor said: “Archie was selected by the award board as a finalist but unfortunately did not win.
However, to be selected as a finalist out of all the young volunteers in the UK is a brilliant achievement and shows that we are more than just a judo club.” Club members then travelled to Bideford, where Hawkins was competing in the Western Area regional schools qualifiers, fighting under Ashton Park Secondary School.
He won gold in his age and weight category to qualify for the National School Championships in March.
It was then the turn of Bedminster Judokwai to host a competition in Hengrove, jointly with Patchway Judo Club. It proved to be a huge success with the host club picking up a bronze and silver medal.
To get your team or club included, please send your reports and club news to: sbvsport@outlook.com The deadline for the next edition is Monday 6 January!
Artemy Bulavin, Ben Barker, Archie Hawkins and Sam Barker at the British Judo Awards
● TV Aerials & Satellites
● Extra Points ● Repairs
● Sky Work Undertaken
● Telephone Extensions ● TV Wall Mounting
● CCTV ● Data Points & Wi-Fi Extensions
● TV/DAB/FM Multi Point Systems
Suttons Stairlifts is a wellestablished business offering a range of new or refurbished Handicare stairlifts, either straight or curved, in Somerset, Bath, Bristol, Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon.
We also offer a rental option for straight stairlifts as well as servicing and safety checks, repairs and removals.
Thanks to personal recommendations from satisfied customers referring us to friends and relatives,
we have achieved a solid reputation for integrity and exceptional service and are committed to providing expert advice with a no-pressure selling policy.
With our inclusive and comprehensive 12- or 24-month warranty and 7 days a week coverage you can be assured of a first-class and personal service from Suttons Stairlifts.
Call us on 01749 346900 for more information.
southbristolvoice
