South Bristol Voice Totterdown - November 19 by South Bristol Voice

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November 2019 November 2019

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No. 54

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‘An accident waiting to happen’ A ‘dangerous’ walkway stretching under St Luke’s Road railway bridge is an ‘accident waiting to happen’, says a local dad who has launched a petition calling for safety improvements. There are two walkways under the rail bridge. However, the railings running along the pavement nearest to Victoria Park stop halfway through the underpass, which Knowle resident Kevin Lindegaard says leaves pedestrians vulnerable to traffic – particularly school children. Mr Lindegaard, who worries for the safety of his daughter who uses St Luke’s Road to get to and from St Mary Redcliffe and Temple school, like hundreds of other students, also says that despite the lights recently being cleaned and repaired by the council - the walkway is still “too dim”, and with vehicles regularly speeding along this stretch of road, an accident is waiting to happen. The biomass energy consultant says that the footway

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Local resident and father Kevin Lindegaard is calling for the railings to be extended under the bridge in St Luke’s Road

Redcatch Community Garden receiving their award. Photo by Lucas Sinclair, Farelight Productions

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Contacts

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Becky Day Editorial director 07912 484405 news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Independent Community News Network member

Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Rich Coulter Production director 07775 550607 info@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is November 6.

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November 2019

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ... My MP? Karin Smyth MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA By phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Call 0117 953 3575 for an appointment. My councillor? Post: You can write to all councillors at City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Christopher Davies Lib Dem, 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

Knowle Email: Cllr.Christopher. Davies@bristol.gov.uk Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem deputy leader) Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 Lucy Whittle Labour, Windmill Hill Phone: 07392 108805 Email: cllr.lucy.whittle@bristol.gov.uk Jon Wellington Labour, Windmill Hill Phone: 07392 108804 Email: Cllr.Jon.Wellington@bristol.gov.uk

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

COMPLAINTS

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

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November 2019

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n NEWS Father calls for safety improvements to pathway From Page 1 is particularly problematic in the winter when it becomes much darker in the morning and late afternoon, and the sloping path becomes icy. The petition is calling for the council to extend the railings by an extra 30 to 40 metres to the end of the rail bridge, approaching York Road, and to upgrade the lighting to ‘brighter and more efficient LEDs’. Mr Lindegaard told the South Bristol Voice: “There’s no rhyme or reason why these railings stop halfway – it’s an oversight and a very dangerous one at that. “If you see something that’s dangerous and don’t report it, and something serious happens, you couldn’t live with yourself. “The stretch of road is very scary.” In an email seen by South Bristol Voice from the council to Mr Lindegaard, in response to his petition, the local authority says that it is “not possible”

to extend the railings “as the footway width would be reduced below minimum standards due to the presence of a lamp column and road sign” and that it would “restrict vehicular access to Victoria Park for maintenance contractors”. However, as mentioned in the email correspondence - and also in Windmill Hill ward councillors Jon Wellington and Lucy Whittle’s columns this month (see page 13) - £60,000 funding has been secured to install a crossing in St Luke’s Road to help reduce traffic speed and improve access to Victoria Park from St Luke’s Crescent. The council adds that “it may be possible to look at the footway widths and the positioning of street furniture as part of this project”. According to Cllr Wellington, the speed of traffic in St Luke’s Road has been a “recurring complaint” among residents. It is anticipated that the

crossing will be installed during the 2020-21 financial year, but there will be a consultation with local residents first. The South Bristol Voice had contacted the council prior to seeing the email correspondence from the council to Mr Lindegaard. A spokesperson said: “We constantly monitor road safety across the city to identify any problem areas and in this case, the lights under the St Luke’s Road bridge have recently been cleaned and repaired to improve visibility in this area.’’ Mr Lindegaard’s petition can be found at bit.ly/st-lukes-rdsafety.

Rise in hate crimes Reports of a number of hate crimes across Bristol South have significantly increased between 2016 and 2018, new figures released by Avon and Somerset Police (ASP) have revealed. Hate crimes motivated by sexual orientation surged by 93 per cent and gender hate crime - a category recently introduced by ASP - rose from one incident in 2016 to 58 in 2018. The number of racial hate crimes also increased by 36 per cent - a rise from 243 reported incidents to 332, while reports of religious hate crime decreased by 39 per cent. Reporting of disablist hate crime rose by 11 per cent and transphobic hate crime dropped from five reports in 2016 to four in 2018. Police say that both of these crimes continue to be “severely under-reported”. The spike has been attributed to a number of factors, such as the EU referendum result, but police say that the figures also reflect a “growing intolerance for hate crimes”, as well as a “boost in confidence in reporting amongst victims”.

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November 2019

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n NEWS

Come and refill your bottles at Bloop Being able to reduce our plastic consumption in Totterdown has become that little bit easier, thanks to a new refill shop which has just opened in the area. Residents can take their empty bottles to Bloop, in Oxford Street, to top up on beauty and home cleaning products, and also peruse the many other eco-friendly goods for sale. Bloop, which opened its doors on October 4 in place of a former bakery, is owned by husband and wife team Jayne Rutland and Karl Sadler. When visiting the shop, you will also be greeted by Graham – Jayne and Karl’s Jack Russell. Bloop has been a welcomed addition to the square in Totterdown – the couple say that they have already had a “really positive response” from local shoppers since opening. Jayne and Karl took over the premises when they moved to Bristol in June. Since taking over the building, Jayne – an experienced hairdresser – has been creating products for her vegan haircare business ‘Hairy Jayne’ from the former bakery’s kitchen, while Karl has been producing music, as well as commercial sounds for toy manufacturers in the basement. Hence ‘Bloop’ – the name mimicked the

5 Jayne and Karl with Graham, the Jack Russell at Bloop, Oxford Street

sounds made by the liquids created by Jayne in the kitchen and the noises created by Karl in his music studio. The pair decided to open up the shop front to offer customers refills and to support other eco businesses in the area. Jayne’s natural products, which she has been making since 2011, can be bought in the shop, alongside a whole range of other low impact beauty items – some made by local producers. Household products are stocked from ethical, cruelty free companies and there is a station for customers to create their own cleaning products, which are free from toxins and suitable to shoppers with allergies. Jayne, who gave up hairdressing over a year ago to dedicate her time to Hairy Jayne, said: “We’ve had a really positive so far. Our first day, we had people bringing in their bottles and we’ve had lots of people saying that they will come back with their containers.” She added: “It’s great because there’s already a veg store and a bakery – people can now come up here and shop plastic free.” The shop will be featuring on the Front Room art trail, November 15-17. Bloop can be found at 123 Oxford Street.

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November 2019

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n NEWS Teen sentenced over biker’s death A 16-year-old has been sentenced to three years and two months for the manslaughter of Knowle man, Michael Rice. The 20-year-old died when his motorbike collided with a parked van in Fulford Road, Hartcliffe on April 5. Michael, who had not been wearing a helmet, had clipped a YoBike which had been dragged into the road by the defendant. Michael died at the scene. The suspect, aged 15 at the time of the incident, initially denied charges of murder, manslaughter and causing a danger to road users, but entered a guilty plea to manslaughter on the fifth day of the trial. Passing sentence His Honour Judge Blair said: “Michael Rice should not have lost his life. There is only one possible type of sentence for this grave crime detention.” Senior Investigating Officer DCI James Riccio said: "This is

a tragic case which will have a lasting impact on the community. We appreciate that to Michael's family and the wider community this sentence may seem lenient. We are now looking to consider making a formal appeal to have the sentence reviewed.” Michael's mum Donna Rice said: "It has been six months since Mike has left us. “Our family has been ripped apart. “It's imprinted on my mind and will affect me for the rest of my life. “I'm so devastated that I will never get to see my son marry and have children. Mike, I am counting down the days until I see you again. “One day we will all be together again but until that day I will be forever heartbroken." In mitigation, the defence counsel said the defendant was “horrified by the unintended consequences of his act”.

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November 2019

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n NEWS

Cyclist raises £4k for Bristol hospitals

A local resident and his brother have raised an outstanding £4,000 for Bristol’s hospitals after taking part in a 470km cycle ride to Paris Pete Croft, of Victoria Park, and brother John were two of 53 cyclists to have cycled to the French capital from Bristol. This is the fifth year of the cycle challenge and more than £119k was raised in total for Above & Beyond, the charity fundraising for Bristol hospitals. Pete said: “The group camaraderie amongst the riders is what keeps you going through the rain and hills. “Not really being dedicated cyclists, I did wonder how we would do this ride when we signed up a year ago. But after practice rides to Clevedon, Chew Valley and Cheltenham, our confidence grew. “The event is so well organised, they have support

vehicles, so when you have a blow out it’s like having the AA at hand. “The experience has definitely made me want to continue cycling. “I would recommend the ride to anyone. You will also make new friends, hopefully, people you will keep cycling with and most importantly raise money

for a very important cause, one which needs events like this to continue its life saving work.” The money raised will go towards ensuring groundbreaking research at the hospitals can continue, as well as affording the best equipment and supporting staff in their training and development.

Pete (right) and brother John arrive in Paris after 470km cycle

Classical music concert for all World famous pianist and Totterdown resident Allan Schiller will be playing popular pieces by Mozart in an event aimed at children and classical music lovers alike. The concert on November 23 at Totterdown Baptist Church is part of a series of mini afternoon concerts featuring Allan, who was awarded the British Empire Medal earlier this year. The concerts will run every other month - at each one, Allan will introduce some famous works of a great composer. The concerts are 45 minutes, starting at 4pm, and are an ideal introduction to classical music for children and anyone learning to play the piano, as well as classical music enthusiasts. Tickets are £5 for adults and £1 for children and can be purchased at: bit.ly/allanschiller

RECEPTION OPEN DAY Wednesday 6 November 2019 SESSIONS: 9-10am, 2-3pm or 5-6pm Come and see our Primary School in action. You can book in advance at blc-open-day. eventbrite.co.uk or feel free to turn up on the day Follow us on social media: @bristol_blc

@bristolblc @bridgelearningcampus William Jessop Way, BS13 0RL • 0117 353 4472 enquiries@bridgelearningcampus.com • www.bridgelearningcampus.org.uk Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Pricing:

We’re celebrating our 1st birthday this November! North Street Nursery aims to create a unique childcare experience for our neighbourhood. Something within easy reach for parents which provides opportunity, character and simplicity, whilst enriching and caring for its community. Children learn to be strong and independent through warm positive relationships. We believe a child will thrive in a rich, nurturing environment, that includes the cultures and diversities around them and in turn, develop a positive sense of their own identity. We provide care for babies from 6 months right up to preschool toddlers, located at the heart of the North Street community, with 3 dedicated rooms and a unique roof terrace garden for outdoor play and activities. We feel strongly about including our parents in their child’s journey, using a secure digital tool to track their development and keep you updated on their progress and our nursery news at every step.

• All inclusive pricing, with no deposits or admin fees and a 5% community discount • Sessions available from 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday including bank holidays • No minimum sessions and term time only available for teachers • Under 2s £32 half days or £60 full days • Over 2s £30 half days or £55 full days • 2, 3 and 4-year-old funded places available • Childcare vouchers and tax free childcare accepted

Limited Spaces special offer We have limited spaces available this year for Toddlers and Pre-School • 10 Toddler spaces • 10 Pre-School spaces • Full Time only (4 or 5 full days per week) • 20% discount when confirmed before end of November Contact info@nurseryvillage.co.uk Terms and conditions apply

www.nurseryvillage.co.uk

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November 2019

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n NURSERY SCHOOLS ADVERTISING FEATURE

Nursery celebrates one year on the high street

North Street Nursery

226 North Street, BS3 1JD W: www.nurseryvillage.co.uk E: info@nurseryvillage.co.uk

orth Street Nursery is just about to celebrate its first birthday, having opened its doors to children for the first time on November 21st 2018, with an ambition to fill some of the childcare gap that exists in the area and build a community focused setting that people would welcome at the heart of North Street. The nursery opened after massive community support for its planning application and has enjoyed significant support and interaction from parents over the first year, which has seen its fair share of challenges. Having achieved a Good rating from Ofsted earlier this year during inspection, the 93 place nursery has continued to welcome new children and their families, as the nursery gets close to capacity next year. The children and their staff team have become regular fixtures in bright hi vis jackets up and down North Street, as the nursery delivers on its ethos and promise to ensure the children are aware and engaged in everything it has to offer, including a busy and exciting outdoor programme that takes in all of the local parks. Whilst you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know to look at the nursery from North Street, they have a dedicated roof terrace garden for 30 children at a time, but that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop them visiting places like Bristol Zoo or Windmill Hill City Farm on a regular basis. The team continue to push developments and improvements, having achieved more than 50 per cent recycling of all waste, they have now moved all nappy waste to energy recycling through Green Bottoms taking the total to 75 per cent or more. Not stopping there, the nursery was renovated with solar panels in mind, which will hopefully be their next addition in 2020 and just in time for their next birthday!

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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November 2019

n NURSERY SCHOOLS ADVERTISING FEATURE

Off to a great start Compass Point Primary South Street, BS3 3AU W: compasspoint.bristol.sch.uk T: 0117 3772340 E: compass.point@bristolschools.uk

Children have an excellent launchpad for their learning when they join the nursery class at Compass Point Primary School. The provision is led by a qualified teacher, supported by experienced and dedicated early years practitioners. While the main school is housed in a historic building, the nursery is in a purpose-built modern and accessible space.

Children can learn outdoors too, and they have the opportunity to experience the exciting on-site forest school. Compass Point is a warm, welcoming and inclusive community and offers a range of formal and informal support for families from all backgrounds. Regular coffee mornings are held for parents and 'stay and play' sessions are very popular. The school is closely involved with its neighbourhood, hosting the annual Bedminster Lantern Parade, taking part in Upfest, Window Wanderland and similar events and maintaining links with theatre, history and other groups. Why not call to arrange a visit?

Compass Point Primary has a modern, purpose-built nursery

Compass Point Primary School

All children welcome here at our flourishing nursery school St Philip’s Marsh Nursery Albert Crescent, Bristol, BS2 0SU W: stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk T: 0117 977 6171 E: stphilipsmarshn@bristolschools.uk

We are a lively, flourishing Local Authority Nursery School. Our school community includes children from 2 to 5 years, their parents and carers. It is staffed by a Headteacher, Deputy Head, teachers, early years practitioners and support staff, all of whom have extensive experience of working with young children and each child and parent/ carer is well supported by a key person.

St Philip’s St Philip’s Marsh Nursery School Marsh Nursery School

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St Philip’s is an inclusive school which welcomes all children from all communities. We are particularly proud of our amazing outdoor space and sensory room which includes an indoor rainforest! Book an appointment to have a look around.

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Now taking children from 2 years old

E eerf sruoh 51 • ruoh 03(• 15 hours free Early Education for all 3-4 year-olds (30 hours free for eligible families)

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• 15 hours free Early Education for eligible 2 year-olds

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Paying places available

0117 977 6171 Albert Crescent, Bristol BS2 0SU www.stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk

Albert Crescent, Bristol BS2 0SU www.stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk 0117 977 6171

Nursery places available now! Give your pre-school child the best possible start

- 15 funded hours a week in our teacher-led class. Everyone’s welcome at our diverse community school. Visit us on Thursday November 21 at 9.30am. Compass Point Primary School, South St, Bristol BS3 3AU t: 0117 377 2340 e: compass.point@bristol-schools.uk w:http://www.compasspoint.bristol.sch.uk

Welcomes 2-5 years St Philip’schildren Marsh Nursery School (2-5 yea old

Now taking children from 2 years old

• 15 hours free early education for all http://stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk 3-4 year-olds 0117 families) 9776171 (30 hours free for eligible

• 15 hours free early education for eligible 15 hours free Early Education for all 3-4 year 2 year-olds

(30 hours free for eligible families) Paying places available 15 hours free Early Education for eligible 2 yea Breakfast and After School Club Paying places available

All families are welcome to attend our Stay & Play sessions, held twice a week

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

November 2019

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n SCHOOL NEWS

The students who built a plane from scratch It has been over seven years in the making – now a plane, built from scratch by former students and staff at a south Bristol school has finally been given the green light to fly. Those involved in the project at Bridge Learning Campus were able to see the fruits of their labour on the runway at a special celebration event at Gloucestershire Airport in Staverton. Although the unpredictable British weather prevented the light aircraft, G-TBLC, from taking to the skies on the day, students will be invited back to Staverton another time – when conditions are less windy – to fly in the plane alongside the pilot. Before the event, the plane underwent a series of test flights

before being awarded its permit to fly. At the event, students – who had helped build many aspects of the aircraft – were still able to hear the engine run and sit in the passenger seat of the two-seater plane. Bridge Learning Campus was one of six schools across the country to have been selected to take part in the Schools Build-a-Plane (SBAP) challenge, which was launched by Boeing and the Royal Aeronautical Society in 2008 to inspire young people to consider careers in the engineering, manufacturing and aviation fields. Bridge Learning Campus was the third school involved in the programme to receive the kit in 2011.

Cleve conker challenge It is the seventh year Cleve House School and Little Cleve Nursery has held its conker tournament and this year, pupils went head to head with Torwood House School. The battle took place at the Wells Road school in Knowle on October 17 with friends and parents from both schools invited to watch. Cleve House was preparing to defend its trophy having won against Torwood House in the last

battle, but Cleve was unfortunately defeated in the final. Youngsters collected their conkers from the Downs and had been practising their aim and swing in the build-up to the challenge. Each school held a mini tournament to select their eight conkers competitors. Little Cleve Nursery children also joined in the fun to hunt for conkers in the nursery grounds.

LITTLE CLEVE NURSERY Nursery places available! Little Cleve Nursery takes pupils aged from 2 to 5 years

• Wrap around care available • Specialist teaching staff • Safe, stimulating and nurturing environment • Nursery vouchers and funding accepted • Stand alone nursery provision or continue with peers into Cleve House • Stay and play toddler session Monday mornings, 9.15 10.45am For more information, get in touch or come and see us at: 254 Wells Road, BS4 2PN Tel: 0117 9777 218 FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE

www.clevehouseschool.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

n YOUR COUNCILLORS

November 2019

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pologies for those that have read, during the last year or so, other articles about air quality but the subject is a Gary vital one with Hopkins around 300 people a Lib Dem year dying in Bristol Knowle because of air pollution - the vast majority of which comes from vehicles. Opposition parties have been raising the subject repeatedly but it was not until central government started making demands that there have been signs of interest from the mayor. The standards that the government wants us to meet are not over the top but the mayor has now failed on three occasions to come up with a viable plan. Other cities have just got on and produced their plans but not Bristol’s mayor. He has tied himself up in knots trying not to upset any voters that may object to being charged for bringing a heavily polluting vehicle

Knowle

into town. The issue is sensitive, particularly as owners of diesel vehicles point to the fact that central government advised some years ago to buy diesel instead of petrol, because of greenhouse gas emissions. That advice is still valid, and in rural areas with no prospect of electric vehicles anytime soon, they are the best option, but in town diesel is a problem (as well as some petrol vehicles). The answer is not to shy away from regulation but to use funds to provide a vehicle exchange service, subsidised for those financially challenged. Tackling the bus service problem with a franchising system would also provide a great deal of progress but the mayor wants to charge buses but not polluting private cars. You could not make it up.

Got news? Email Becky at news@ southbristolvoice.co.uk

How to contact your councillor: p2

receive regular enquiries regarding the future of Knowle Library. There was a past threat of city wide library Chris closures but the Davies news here is good. Lib Dem When the library Knowle service moved Knowle Library into the shopping centre, there was a long lease on an exchange arrangement with the centre management. If the library had been closed, the council would still have to pay the rent for years to come. So this ensures its continuation. Whatever happens with Broadwalk redevelopment the owners want the library to remain, as they welcome the service. The present administration did try to find local groups to take over branches around the city marked for closure, but as expected they did not have much success. Sense prevailed and the plan for the closure of 17 libraries was dropped due to pressure of a huge petition.

Gary and I suggested to library management and the city wide library forum the formation of library Friends groups. In many areas this has been taken on board including the recently reformed ‘Friends of Knowle Library’ of which Gary and I are members and which we are pleased to see is gaining support. In a complete U-turn the council is now funding £1000 to each library and a further £3000 for community use, or a combined fund. It is unclear quite what this can be used for and how it can be allocated. We await some clarity on this. Loads of volunteers came forward city-wide with their suggestions for improvements and new initiatives but these offers seem to have been lost and not acted upon. Meanwhile all library properties have been separated from the library service and consideration on whether they should be closed and sold has been delegated to comparatively junior officers.

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November 2019

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n YOUR COUNCILLORS

ne of the few opportunities ward councillors such as myself have to materially improve local neighbourhoods Jon is through the Wellington distribution of the Labour local portion of Windmill Hill Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - money that developers have to pay to local authorities to mitigate for their developments. Each year, local councillors are tasked with identifying priorities in their wards and are then able to with the assistance of community groups or groups of individuals bid for cash for projects in their area. In the three and half years since I have been a councillor, perhaps the most common complaint I hear from local residents (apart from parking) is traffic problems on St Luke’s Road. The speed of traffic and the difficulty for pedestrians and cyclists has been a recurring

Windmill Hill

complaint. I have repeatedly reassured residents that doing something on this stretch of road is a top priority for me, and that I would apply for cash as soon as I had any opportunity to do so. Unfortunately, massive cuts to local authority budgets have meant that we have very little money available for local projects and less council staff to do these things than before. So I was delighted this year to be able to successfully bid for cash for a pedestrian crossing and associated traffic calming measures on St Luke’s Road near the steps down from St Luke’s Crescent across to Victoria Park. I know that this has been a long term aspiration for local Totterdown group Tresa, and thank you to members for putting together the application which I then prioritised and submitted to the council for approval. I am very pleased that £60,000 has been allocated to this project. I am now looking for projects for funding for next year. If you have ideas for this, please get in touch.

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n last month’s South Bristol Voice I mistakenly wrote that the Area 5 committee meeting agreed Lucy Whittle the skate park Labour improvement Windmill Hill project in Victoria Park when I meant to write that we had agreed on funding the St Luke’s Road crossing. Even though I was at the meeting, I was looking at the previous year’s decisions while I was writing my column, my iPad had only 5% power left, and in my rush I got muddled. My apologies to anyone left scratching their heads. I just wanted to reassure residents of Windmill Hill Ward that I have not lost my marbles, I am just sometimes a bit too eager to press send. So to confirm: St Luke’s crossing has been agreed along with money for improvements to Marksbury Road Library. I’ve written before about Extinction Rebellion – the organisation behind climate ADVERTISEMENT

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protests around the country. They are very inconvenient; blocking roads; stopping people getting to work; and generally getting in everyone’s way. They have caused so much disruption in London that the Metropolitan Police have banned all actions by the group. Inconvenient as they may be, Extinction Rebellion have always been disciplined and peaceful, and banning them seems to me like an overreaction. Police in London have been stopping people at random and demanding to see ID. I do not want to live in a country where legitimate protest is quashed as soon as it has any effect. 100 years ago some women won the right to vote. It took decades of inconvenient action, including the use of explosives, to bring about the right that we all take for granted today. The stakes are even higher today. As an elected representative, it is even more important to stand up for what’s right, however inconvenient. That’s why I am travelling to London with my baby to join the Rebellion, even if that means we are arrested.

n NEWS Explore a wealth of artistic talent Bristol’s longest standing and largest arts trail is returning to the streets of Totterdown this month. This year’s free annual event, which has been giving residents a chance to explore the wealth of local talent for almost two decades, is engineering themed and will run from November 15-17. The trail offers a unique opportunity to talk to artists about their work, materials and creative processes - from the comfort of their own homes and studios. Most artists exhibit a significant body of work with much being available to purchase. For more information about the trail and its artists, and to also download the trail map, visit: frontroom.org.uk. Most venues are open 10am to 6pm, Saturday and Sunday. In addition, some are open for a Friday night preview from 7pm to 9pm.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS ADVERTISING FEATURE Bocabar launches new city centre bar and restaurant Bocabar

this freshly regenerated area along the Floating Harbour. For more news, look out for developments on social media @bocabarbristol or visit www. bocabar.co.uk

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accessories, which I then sell to individuals and buyers within the museum and heritage sector. Using my eco-friendly products and interactive children’s book series, I intend to help educate people to be kind to nature and conserve our planet for future generations, which is very much at the heart of my business ethos.

What's this cute building in the middle of Finzel's Reach? It's the new home of Bristol's second Bocabar, on the ground floor of the historic Fermentation Buildings, beneath Channel 4, due to open end of November in time for Christmas. Bocabar will offer a busy social, drinking and dining hub, keeping its vintage, eclectic, rustic feel with a touch of velvet drape luxury. Menus will be combining small and big plates, burgers, pizzas and salads for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast. From cocktails to specialist gins and local craft beers, Bocabar will offer something for everyone - for the growing number of office workers, residents and visitors to w t w

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n THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE In witch I’m surprised

‘

It’s a boy’ screamed a text from my phone together with jiggling baby bottle emojis and popping blue love hearts.

The son of Mrs Proud - a friend - was having a baby ...well, his girlfriend was. Due next year. I frowned and rubbed my eyes. I really did not want to know but I could not un-see those happy words and Mrs Proud was super excited. Why do people find out the gender of their unborn child? When that baby pops out into this crazy world I’ll get a call telling me that he has arrived and all I’ll be able to say is “oh”. There is something magical about not knowing and spending time guessing what the baby will be. Hanging a ring on a hair plucked from the expectant’s head, holding it over the bump and watching the ring either swing in a straight line (girl) or spin round in a circle (boy).

Then, as the bump gets bigger, it will be judged. Carrying high, a girl. Low bump, a boy. Big and round, girl. Small and neat, boy. It’s exciting, not knowing. I got chatting to one of my familiars. A dog walker with a huge wolf dog. Wolf had managed to pinch Scrappy’s ball and was chewing nosily. There was no way he was giving it up. The three of us stood looking at him uneasily. As we watched the ball being destroyed, Wolf Boy told me his wife was expecting their first child, a boy. I immediately went into a rant about how I hated finding out the gender, why would anyone want to know, it was just silly and… I finished rather smugly “they do get it wrong sometimes”.

THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE

Wolf Boy took my rant and came back saying that these days (I immediately felt old) they can tell from blood tests and it was 99.9% accurate. He told me that his wife suffered from anxiety therefore the more they knew the better. Great. Now I felt bad. He bent to Wolf’s head and was met by a loud warning growl that rumbled like a low flying helicopter; the ground shook. “I’ve not seen him like this for a long time,” puzzled Wolf Boy. “About five years ago he nearly took my arm off when I tried to take something from him, but this is very odd behaviour”. Me and Scrappy took a step back. Wolf Boy revealed that they already had a name for the baby. I covered my ears and cried “la, la, la, I don’t want to know”.

Who is the Wicked Witch? She knows a lot but she doesn’t want to know if it’s a boy or a girl THIS WITCH TWEETS: @witchyofknowle

Wolf Boy smiled and said that he wasn’t going to tell me anyway, he finally retrieved the ball and threw it to me, misshapen and covered in wolf spit. I think I deserved that. I had four little darlings and did not find out what any of them were. There was no popping of gender reveal balloons or, god forbid, baby showers. There was also no social media to ruin our announcements. My neighbour had a baby and his mum posted it on Facebook. When he made the calls, everyone already knew. He was gutted. I remember Uni Girl being born. We were sure she would be our third little boy and when Himself looked he told me that yes it was another boy – turned out the little willy was in fact the umbilical cord which the midwife, upon handing him some large scissors, asked if he would like to cut - now that was a surprise.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 2

Flights of fancy

Almost since the dawn of powered flight, it has been just too tempting for young pilots to guide their planes under the Clifton Suspension Bridge, writes Paul Breeden.

HE AVON Gorge is a natural wonder, a slash in a limestone ridge that is 10 miles long, stretching from Clifton Downs to Clevedon. It’s 700 feet wide and 300 feet deep at the Clifton Suspension Bridge. For centuries it’s been a vital transport link, and a deadly one, as our last edition showed. In the 20th century it has become an irresistible setting for aviators too. Almost everyone who was in Bristol on November 26, 2003, will remember the last flight of Concorde, which flew from London Heathrow to its birthplace at Filton, making a dramatic turn over the Suspension Bridge to create probably one of the city’s bestloved photos of all time. It’s fair to say, though, that most airborne explorers of the Gorge have not had their flight plans approved with the rigour that Concorde 216 did. Aviators, especially the early ones, were natural risk takers. They had to be – crashes were common and most often fatal. The first public flights, such as the one over the Avon Gorge in 1910, were greeted with amazement. Though it was seven years since the Wright Brothers had made the first powered flight in the US, they had kept a low profile for several years, fearful that their design would be copied. The first public demonstrations came in August 1908 in the US and France, when the Wright brothers proved their critics wrong – several French commentators had claimed the

Bristol’s first flight: French aviator Maurice Tetard flies above the Clifton Suspension Bridge in a Bristol-made Boxkite, watched by a crowd of 10,000 on the Downs PHOTO: © Bristol Archives BRO 43207/9/35/53

Wrights were bluffers and didn’t have a working plane. The first flight in Britain didn’t take place until October 1908, when the American Samuel Cody made a flight of just 400 yards in his government-backed plane, British Army Aeroplane No 1, at Farnborough in Hampshire. Bristol had to wait for a public flight until 1910 – but by then the city already had its own aircraft factory, one of the first in the world. Sir George White, owner of the Bristol Tramways and Carriage Company, had been inspired to invest in aircraft manufacture after meeting

Wilbur Wright in France the Sir George demanded (and got) a previous year. 15,000 franc refund from Zodiac. The new British and Colonial The new company – now Aeroplane Co was unusual in generally referred to as ‘Bristol’ – the new aviation industry in now started work on a muchthat it was properly funded (Sir improved copy of another French George and his family invested design, the Farman, based on £25,000, equal to £25m today). detailed drawings published It could also draw on experience in the press. The first flight of in running hi-tech buses and this new plane, dubbed the trams – then very much in their Bristol Boxkite, was at Larkhill infancy too. on Salisbury Plain on July 20, PROPERTY Working in two former tram 1910.MAINTENANCE (M. Farman complained sheds in Filton, the company that his patent had been broken, INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING started to manufacture copies of but the courts were convinced FENCING • LANDSCAPING the French Zodiac biplane under • PATIOS that Bristol had made significant licence. But the trial plane simply the case was LOG STORESimprovements, • GUTTERINGand • FASCIAS wouldn’t fly, even with a new set • DOORS • PLUMBING Continued overleaf of Bristol-designed wings,ELECTRICS and

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n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 2 Continued from previous page dropped.) It was with huge excitement that the people of Bristol welcomed their aerial adventurers at Durdham Downs on November 11. A canvas hangar had been for the two Boxkites, which were so fragile that they had to be protected from rain. A crowd of 10,000 or more came along each day for six days. But even moderate winds could prevent a flight, and the spectators spent most of their time waiting. Several flights were made, many of them short hops around the Downs at a height of only 100 feet. But the sense of civic pride was huge. As the Bristol Times & Mirror reported: “In the old days the highest compliment the nautical world could bestow upon a vessel was to say she was ‘shipshape and Bristol fashion’. History repeats itself, and the old city is making such a big bid for distinction as a centre where ‘clippers of the clouds’ are built … that the time may come when the expert British flying man, mindful both of the perils of the air and of the fat prizes to be won, will think twice before investing in a machine that is not ‘Bristol fashion’.” On the afternoon of the 11th, as the weather cleared, thousands surrounded the hangar so closely that it seemed there would be no room for a take-off. However, “a strong body of police”, led by Superintendent Hazell, cleared a way, and the French pilot Maurice Tetard made his first flight in a Boxkite. Afterwards he told the reporter “it was

Owned up: the first pilot to go on record admitting he had flown under the bridge was FG Wayman in 1927, in a Bristol Fighter like this one PHOTO: Alan Wilson, Creative Commons certainly the best [plane] he had flown in”, even thought the flight was “exceptionally difficult” because of the “whirlwinds coming from the Gorge”. At some points he had been driven down to “within eight feet of some lofty elms”. The public could see the fragile little plane, which seemed to be made of paper and string, rocking from side to side in the gusts. But they could not appreciate how dangerous these early machines were: “Really, he ought not to have gone up in the conditions prevailing, but he was determined the public should not be disappointed,” another French ace, Henry Jullerot, told the paper. The watchers were, however, suitably impressed when on November 16 Tetard managed to pilot the Boxkite along the course of the Avon Gorge and above the Suspension Bridge. It was the first powered flight over this landmark.

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n 1910 the value of the aeroplane had only been glimpsed by a few. The outbreak of war in 1914 provoked rapid progress – yet in Britain there were only 100 military aircraft. The tiny Royal Flying Corps was only allowed to buy planes designed by the official Royal Aircraft Establishment. But when in 1915 it became clear that the official BE2 plane was no match for German models, British pilots clamoured for the superior Bristol Scout, and the planes were duly ordered from Filton. The Bristol aircraft factory’s biggest contribution to the war was, however, the F.2B, otherwise known as the Brisfit – the Bristol Fighter. This was a rugged twoseat reconnaissance plane that proved almost as manoeuverable as smaller single-seaters. It entered service in April 1917 and was still considered the best plane in its class when the war ended in November 1918. More than 5,000 were produced, both at Filton and a factory in Brislington, and some Brisfits remained in service until the early 1930s.

here are many claims and rumours passed around by pilots about flying under the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Many are probably exaggerations. But the tradition persists that since the early days of the RAF, young pilots have considered it a rite of passage to skim the River Avon and fly under Brunel’s famous landmark. It looks easy – the bridge is 700 feet wide, after all, and there is 300 feet between the road deck and the river. But as we’ve seen, the winds that rush up the Gorge are dangerous and unpredictable and

would have made it impossible for the earliest flying machines to manage the feat. Not for the Bristol Fighter, though. In July, 1927, Pilot Officer FG Wayman was training in the RAF Reserve. He was challenged by his colleagues to fly under the bridge for a bet of just five shillings (25p, or £14.66 today). “I accepted without knowing the hazard,” he wrote in a memoir. “The next day I motored to the bridge and walked upstream along the left bank. Then and only then did I see the twists and turns the river takes as it approaches the bridge – making it impossible for a straight approach.” Wayman realised the feat was not nearly so simple as it appeared. The next day he took off in his Bristol Fighter – it’s not clear at which aerodrome he was based – and flew upstream at a height of 200ft. Two miles in, he made a tight about-turn, dropped to 100ft, then cut his speed until he was almost stalling, dropping his right wing. “I skimmed the precipice into mid-stream, flattened, then levelled off at twenty feet above the river level. The rest was easy! I passed under the bridge then a full throttle upward climb and away back to the aerodrome. “The five shillings, and more, went on beer in the mess. The following day I faced the Commodore, receiving a severe reprimand for ‘a stupid and insanely reckless feat’.”

ow many other RAF pilots have repeated PO Wayman’s feat is not known. But he may not have been the first. Raymond Thomas’s Brisray website contains the following anecdote: “In October 2002, Michael Synge emailed me to say that his family legend has it that his uncle, Copper Openshaw, flew under the bridge in a Sopwith Camel biplane around the time of World War I.” The Synge family believed that it was common for pilots to “do the Bridge” as a rite of passage, and that an instructor in another plane would watch from above. The pilots may have come from the RFC squadrons at Filton, one of which was equipped with the Sopwith Pup, similar to the Camel. It is claimed

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n HISTORY Avon Gorge PART 2 many of the pilots stayed at the Avon Gorge Hotel. Some believe that Spitfires and other planes were flown under the bridge in the 1930s and during the Second World War, but no pictures or other records seem to exist. Pilot forums online would have you believe it was fairly common practice. One pilot claimed in 2011 that a friend, Jack Wakefield, had trained as an air gunner on the Boulton Paul Defiant, a two-seat night fighter flown from Aston Down airfield near Minchinhampton in Gloucestershire. The “thing to do” at the training unit, he told his friend, “was for everyone to have a go at flying under the Clifton bridge”. Other incidents do seem to have occurred, even in the jet age, when planes were four times or more as fast as the 123mph maximum of the Bristol Fighter. There is one piece of evidence – an incident on 5th February,

COOL FACTS Why is the gorge there at all? It’s clear – to geologists at least – that the waters of the Avon cut their path through a huge limestone ridge that runs from Clifton to Clevedon. But why didn’t the water flow the easy way through Ashton Vale? It’s probably because Bristol was at the southern limit of the big freeze during the Ice Age, and Ashton was covered by a glacier. 1954. Several newspapers reported that inquiries were trying to identify “the plane believed to be a twin-engined Gloster Meteor” which flew under the Clifton Suspension Bridge from the city side “and then disappeared towards Avonmouth”. The Air Ministry said it could not confirm that the plane was from the RAF, and no more reports followed. But could it be that the

Balloons over the Suspension Bridge. It’s not known if a balloon has been flown under the bridge, though an unsuccessful attempt was made in 2007 PHOTO: Matt Prosser, Creative Commons investigators didn’t want to find evidence of other flights? Sources Professional Pilots Rumour Network (Prune), pprune.org/ military-aviation/96306-low-flyingunder-bridges-updated.html History The Clifton Suspension Bridge, cliftonbridge.org.uk The Avon Gorge, Bristol’s Great

Glacier? bbc.co.uk/bristol/content/ nature/02.shtml The Flyer They Could Not Stop Daily Mirror, February 27, 1957 brisray.com/bristol/gorge2 The Clifton Bridge, Key Publishing Aviation Forums, forum. keypublishing.com thosemagnificentmen.co.uk/ machines/boxkite02.html

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n THE CITY PAGE

BRISTOL CITY ROUND-UP

Results proof of Lee’s growing stature as boss MARTIN POWELL says the criticism of the manager from some sections of the fanbase do not make sense with the team challenging for honours this season Lee Johnson acknowledges the City fans ... the game against Reading was a hard fought victory

ee Johnson is now the longest serving current manager in the Championship after his Bristol City side clinched a hard-fought win over Reading - prompting that club to end its association with Jose Gomes. It is a tough job being a football manager and Gomes can certainly feel a little hard done by that his side didn’t return from Ashton Gate with something. For Johnson it is also an achievement for someone who has had to overcome some crazy opposition from sections of the Ashton Gate fanbase. When Bristol City appointed him he was just 31 – the youngest manager in the league – and was still fresh in the memory as a player. Now, a lot of excellent work has been done to kick racism out of football but Lee seems to have suffered from something

that often goes unrecognised and which is rife at Ashton Gate – shortism! His lack of height as a midfielder seemed to preoccupy so many people on the terraces (many of them not likely to be able to touch a crossbar themselves). Added to that his father Gary Johnson was manager and it all added up to Lee having his own chorus of boo-boys whenever his form dipped below 100 per cent. So, when the club appointed him as a fresh young manager, that same cabal of fans declared him not old enough, experienced enough or tall enough to do the job. Now, I’m not sure if he stands on a box to do his team talk, but results speak for themselves and with Bristol City now competing at the top end of the Championship it is time for people to forget their old

prejudices about Johnson as a player and recognise that the club has a manager who is slowly but surely making progress. Of course he will make mistakes but to date he has got more right than he has got wrong and the completely spurious criticism of him as a player – nobody ever said Gerry Gow was too short to play in midfield – really should be forgotten. At the moment selecting the team each week is tough. City have a lot of young players who are navigating their way through a tough Championship season for the first time; there have been injuries to key players that have been a blow to plans and it is a league where very quickly the opposition spot your style of play and counteract it. But Johnson has been getting the results and with almost a quarter of the season gone City are up amongst the high flyers

and in with a real chance of honours at the end of the season. One strange thing that has marked Johnson’s managerial career is the fact that he seems to go on long unbeaten runs and then long runs where the team can’t get a win. Trying to avoid the latter is the key to success by bouncing back faster from the inevitable defeat. It’s time that Lee gave his critics short shrift.

Martin’s shorts Bristol City are taking part in the Hedgehog Friendly Football League. I wasn’t sure at first what this might entail, especially as our spiky friends have an unfortunate habit of rolling themselves into a ball. However, it is all part of a link up with the British Hedgehog Preservation Society to halt the decline in hedgehog numbers.

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n PLANNING APPLICATIONS

Funding ‘opens up many doors’ for local organisations

48 Springleaze, BS4 2TT Replace existing porch with larger porch.

Windmill Hill City Farm, Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, Redcatch Community Garden and Community in Partnership Knowle West are celebrating after securing thousands of pounds as part of the M&S Community Business Challenge. They are four out of seven inspirational Bristol-based community organisations to have made it through to the finals of the competition and win funding, as well as business skills support from M&S. The funding, ranging from £6k to £8k is provided by Power to Change and will allow the organisations to further meet the needs of their local communities and expand on the services they already provide to help generate more income. The finalists came together on October 3 at The Station in Silver Street to present their business plans to a panel of judges. After inspiring pitches and a surge of

Knowle ward: Awaiting decision

Knowle ward: Decision 75 Kingshill Road, BS4 2SW Retention of detached single storey builidng in rear garden. Granted subject to condition(s) Ilminster Avenue E-Act Academy, BS4 1BX Replace existing crittall windows and one door with powder coated aluminium on two sides of the building. Granted subject to condition(s) 33 St Martins Road, BS4 2NQ Single storey rear extension. Granted subj to condition(s) Windmill Hill ward: Awaiting decision 4 Ravenhill Avenue, BS3 5DU Proposed 2 storey extension to the rear of the dwelling. Proposed change from hip roof to gable end roof and rear dormer window to facilitate a loft conversion. 26 Knowle Road, BS4 2EE Proposed extension and conversion of existing outbuildings in rear garden, for uses incidental to the enjoyment of the existing dwelling. 56 St Johns Crescent, BS3 5ER Erection of extension to form

two self-contained three-bedroom flats with associated works and landscaping. Plot of land fronting former 164 - 188 Bath Road, BS4 3EF Removal of the three existing hoarding advertisement signs, and installation of two illuminated digital advertisements on support legs. 39 Eldon Terrace, BS3 4PA Addition of second storey to dwelling to provide bedroom, study and shower room. 172 St Johns Lane, BS3 5AR Erection of extensions at first and second floor level and the change of use from retail to five selfcontained flats, including alterations to existing shopfront. Windmill Hill ward: Decision 10 Quantock Road Bristol BS3 4PF Single storey rear extension with raised decking. Granted subj to condition(s) • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

Got news? Email Becky at news@ southbristolvoice.co.uk or call 07912484405

online votes, all seven community businesses were awarded with business skills support and grants. Ellie Collier, CEO of Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, said: “It’s absolutely essential that we maximise all income generation opportunities so that we can continue to offer an open, safe and accessible space to the community. This support will really help us to grow and develop the whole site.” Kate Swain, co-founder of Redcatch Community Garden, said: “We’re delighted to receive this funding and support, which opens up so many doors for us. It’s a foundation to look at how we become a food centre and connect with more people and groups in the community.” Other organisations to win included APE Project CIC, St Werburghs City Farm and the Ardagh Community Trust.

Looking for a solicitor? Keep it local Barcan+Kirby are not just any solicitor. We’re your local solicitor with offices in Bedminster, Horfield, Kingswood, Clifton, Thornbury and central Bristol. So our friendly legal experts are always on hand to provide 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.

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

n WHAT’S ON Tuesday November 5 n Victoria Park Bonfire Night, bring wood for fire from 3pm. Guy competition, 6pm. Fire lighting at 6.30pm. Sparklers welcome. No fireworks please. Saturday November 9 n Anna Ryder at the Redcatch Club, Redcatch Community Centre. Open mic session starts at 7.45pm and main act, folk singer-songwriter Anna Ryder starts at 9pm. £8 (£3 open mic performers). Friday November 15 n Round Midnight film screening at the Old Picture

YOGA with Jo Hatha Yoga with Jo, Tues, 12-1pm at Amba House, 1 William Street, Totterdown, BS3 4TU Drop in £9 or 6 classes for £42

Suitable for all levels of experience £9 drop in or 6 classes for £42

Book at www.yoga-with-jo.co.uk Tel: 07808215224 Email: hello@yoga-with-jo.co.uk

November 2019

southbristolvoice

GOT A LISTING YOU WANT INCLUDED? Email sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Nightingale Valley Community Choir No experience necessary, no need to read music. We cover a range of lighter repertoire from folk song to gospel, Broadway and even Mozart! St Anne’s Church, Salisbury Road every Monday 7.30-9pm (except 4th Monday of the month) Taster session, free then £5 each week. Contact Anya Szreter szreter.afm@icloud.com

House, 7 Winton Street, Totterdown, 7.30pm. A 1986 American-French musical drama film directed by Bertrand Tavernier and written by Tavernier and David Rayfiel. For tickets, email dmerr9226@aol. com. CHRISTMAS FAYRE Saturday November 30, 10am-2pm at Knowle Methodist Church, Wells Road. Christmas fayre and Christmas Round the World themed children’s activities.

Wednesday November 20 n Knowle Park Residents’ Association meeting, 6pm at Knowle Community Centre, The Square, Crossways Road, Knowle (main hall). Parking, wheelchair access and accessible toilets are available. All Knowle Park residents welcome - if you are interested but can’t attend then you can email knowleparkres@gmail.com or join our facebook group: Knowle Park Residents’ Association Saturday November 23 n Christmas Bazaar, 10am2.30pm at Totterdown Methodist Church. A variety of stalls with plenty of Christmas gifts, cakes, jams and pickles, books, toys and hot and cold food. Competitions and children’s activities. The event will be raising funds for the local air ambulance and church.

Regular events n Women Rising a free talk about the climate crisis, 11am-12pm every Friday at Amba House, Totterdown. n Filwood Chase History

NIA DANCE FITNESS A fun, energising mix of dance, martial arts and yoga, with relaxation to end. Simple steps to follow, all set to brilliant tunes. Everyone welcome, beginners too. Tuesdays, 7.45-8.45pm, Southbank Club, Dean Lane (term time). £7 drop-in/book on MoveGB. T: 07434 964490. Nia with Helen Society held in our Heritage Centre (free entry). View scale models of local buildings and look at our extensive collection of

Arnos Vocale Do you love classical vocal music, great jazz standards and beautiful international folksongs? Join Arnos Vocale! Experience of choral singing & reasonable sight-reading ability preferable but come for a free trial. Sessions are £8 each week. Knowle Methodist Church Hall (entrance in Redcatch Road) every Tuesday 7.30-9pm. Contact Anya Szreter: szreter. afm@icloud.com

MATTHEW KING STONEMASON CALL 07979 895569

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• Part-time, flexible working hours • Experience essential Please send your CV to Becky at news@southbristolvoice.co.uk Closing date: 20th November Successful applicants will be notified of next stage via email

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

November 2019

southbristolvoice

maps, etc. Browse among, pottery/books/photographs/ coins/fossils, then, look up stored local information, on computers. The Park Community Center, Daventry Road. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 1-5pm. For more information, call Ivor Grimsted on 07856769285 or just turn up, and ask questions! n Bollywood Dance Workout a new class for ladies and girls aged 8+ who want to learn empowering and beautiful Bollywood dance. £7. Mondays,

The Rising Sun live listings - November

Windmill Hill, BS3 4LU 2nd: Red Ray & The Reprobates, 9pm • 3rd: Moody Will & The Roll, 4pm • 16th: Trip For Biscuits, 9pm-11pm • 22nd: Bandaoke (karaoke with a live band), 8pm-10pm • 23rd: The Lewis Creaven Band, 9pm-11pm REGULAR EVENTS Tues 5th & 19th Nov: Jive Bristol, 7pm • Tues 26th Nov: Jam on the Hill, 8pm-11pm • Every Weds: Open mic night*, 8.30-11pm *2-4-1 on all beer cans, 7-9pm.

GOT A LISTING YOU WANT INCLUDED? Email sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk

6.30-7.15pm, Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian St. You can drop-in or book any class on Eventbrite or MoveGB. Facebook: Farrah’s Dance Workout. T: 07800 597718 n Feel Good Fitness is a brand new fun-filled exercise and dance class for all. Toddlers and babies welcome. £7. Fridays 9.30-10.30am, Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian St. You can drop-in or book any class on Eventbrite or MoveGB. Facebook: Farrah’s Dance Workout. T: 07800 597718 n House Party Dance Workout is an euphoric hiintensity workout class in the dark. £6. Thursdays, 8-9pm, Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian St. You can drop-in or book any class on Eventbrite or MoveGB. Facebook: Farrah’s Dance Workout. T: 07800 597718 n Little Music Makers musical storytelling adventures, featuring live music and hands on activities each week. Perfect for your 18 month - 4-year-old. (Siblings under 1 can come for free!). Thursday mornings

through to Christmas (closed 31/10/19). Sessions start at 9.45am or 10.50am in St Christopher’s Church Hall, Hampstead Road, BS4 3HN Get in touch to book or find out more: littlemusicmakers.org. n Zumba classes at United Reform Church, Brislington, BS4 3LG, Monday, 10am - Zumba Gold (suitable for 50+ and Zumba beginners) £5. Monday and Thursday, 6.45pm - Zumba Fitness (Everybody welcome) £6

Forums in South Bristol

For more details contact Kate: zumbawithkate.bristol@gmail. com; 07988787710.

ousing lH

Invoet l Nov & ved

rums Fo

Local Housing Forums for Bristol council tenants

The George

November live listings 288 Wells Road, Knowle SAT 2ND – PAUL FOSTER SAT 9TH – LAST RESORT SAT 16TH – YOUR CHOICE OF MUSIC WITH OUR DJ SAT 23RD – STIFF UPPER LIPS SAT 30TH – TAYLORMADE

Loc a

n WHAT’S ON

D 2019 ec

Area 5: Wednesday 4th December 2019,

Area 6: Monday 16th December 2019,

Bedminster, Brislington East, Brislington West, Knowle, Southville, Windmill Hill

Bishopsworth, Filwood, Hartcliffe & Withywood, Hengrove & Whitchurch, Stockwood

At: Little Cross House - Community Room, Phipps Street, Bristol, BS3 1SL

At: Filwood Community Centre, Barnstaple Road, Bristol, BS4 1JP

1.30-4.00pm

6.15-8.30pm

Your opinions help us make decisions! Come along and discuss your local housing services with the council. If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and can make suggestions about improvements to shared council areas. Housing Officers will also be there to help you with your individual enquiries. FREE tea, coffee and biscuits provided. For information contact: Tenant Participation (0117) 3521444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk. All details at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums. Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2019

southbristolvoice

n ADVERTISING ADVERTISING FEATURE FEATURE n

How new locks can unlock a new you A HAIR salon in Kingswood is leading the fight against female hair loss, transforming the lives of clients. Charisma, on the Kingsway, set up a hair loss clinic 12 months ago. Following the fitting of their integrated hair mesh systems, clients are leaving with a newfound confidence, delighted with their dramatic make-over. The hair loss clinic is based on the first floor of the salon allowing customers who may feel embarrassed or upset by their hair loss complete privacy. The intricate work is carried out by Emily Gil, who originally honed her skills at Charisma as a Saturday girl under the leadership of salon owner Becky Rendell. After qualifying as a stylist, Emily wanted to explore aspects of the business so went to work for a national hair loss clinic. She missed the staff and after several years decided she wanted to return to Charisma. Emily said: “I just wanted to come back as I loved the salon and loved working with Becky but I wanted to continue to work with clients with hair loss. I just wanted to make it more affordable for people. “Becky and I met up a few times and we started planning the clinic. It took about a year and a half to plan but now we’re up and running and it’s going really well.” Emily, 27, has seen clients of all ages with very different conditions causing hair loss or thinning. Her eldest client was in her late eighties but her youngest client was just nine years old. She had hair loss due to treatment for leukaemia. “It was very emotional,” says Emily, who lives in St George. “I had a lady who came in before having chemotherapy and I was with her through her whole treatment journey. I’ve seen alopecia, female pattern baldness and trichotillomania, which is where someone pulls their own hair out. “There are a lot of women suffering and I can understand they might feel embarrassed but we are

Emily Gil here to offer support. People are putting their trust in me so I make sure I listen to what they want and take care of them. I want to help every client who walks through my door.” Potential clients are given a one-to-one consultation where Emily talks them through her integrated mesh system which is attached to your scalp, with bonds made with your own hair in order to individually attach 100 per cent human hair extensions. “We have a chat and find out about their condition which is causing the hair loss and how long they’ve had it for. I do tests on the hair and see if it’s growing back. We also discuss what they would like to achieve in terms of thickness and length. I encourage clients to bring in photos of the sort of hair and style they would like to achieve. “If they are happy to proceed we match up hair colours and make a first appointment.” The system means clients can have their hair any thickness, length or colour they desire, with the added bonus that their scalp can breathe under the mesh, enabling their own hair to grow back, should their condition allow it to. Clients can treat the hair as their own and can wash, blow-dry,

straighten and curl it. Emily said: “It’s life-changing. You can tell that because you see how much confidence a person gains after having the system. They can be very timid and worried when they first come in but by the end of it you can see them glowing with confidence. We recently had a lady who came in with general thinning. She was very shy and apprehensive about what was going to happen but by the end, she was crying with joy - she just loved how she looked. She called me that evening and told me I had literally changed her life.” One of her clients is Kingswood resident, 55-year-old Debbie Bush. She had been going to Charisma for years for cuts but, with ever thinning locks, was intrigued by the salon’s integrated mesh system. “I have really thin hair which runs in my family. I’ve done loads of things to it - I’ve dyed it, bleached it and have gone through stress and the menopause so it all took its toll on my hair. I’ve always wanted long, thick hair but have never been able to grow it past a certain length. “I was nervous but excited and I couldn’t believe the result - it looked so natural! It’s given me a lot more confidence. I now bother with myself more and wear make up because I’ve got nice hair to

show off. “I wasn’t embarrassed by my thin hair but it was hard work. I had to wash and blow-dry it every morning just for it to look ok, but now it’s just once a week. “It was a considered purchase but I would say it’s well worth it as it makes me feel so good.” Clients need to return every six to eight weeks to have the system tightened as it becomes slightly looser once their own hair starts growing underneath. Once every six months the system is completely taken off, their hair and scalp washed and any repairs are carried out before the hair is connected back to the mesh. The system should last between two and two and a half years, depending on how it is looked after. Emily said she loves her work and is delighted to be back. “I always wanted to end up back at Charisma but I didn’t know what I wanted to specialise in. It was only when I got into hair loss solutions that I knew what I wanted to do. “You build friendships and personal relationships with clients as you go on a journey with them. “The best feeling in the world is watching their emotion at the end. It’s priceless and it’s what makes my job worthwhile.”

Debbie has always wanted long, thick hair

3 Kingsway, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 8BF Tel: 0117 967 4040 Email: charismahairlosslinic@gmail.com To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2019

southbristolvoice

n THE MAYOR

Investing in our transport systems

MARVIN REES Mayor of Bristol

obody likes to waste time in traffic. Being stuck in a queue, or waiting for a bus that keeps getting delayed is frustrating, and it damages our city. We must rise to the challenge and improve how we travel around Bristol. Not only does congestion damage our economy, 25% of Bristol’s carbon emissions are transport related. Vehicles held up in traffic are a major contributor to poor air quality in the city. We are also a growing city. Bristol’s population is set to grow to over half a million people in the next ten years. Our aim is to connect people with people, people with jobs, and people with opportunity. To protect our environment and connect citizens to an inclusive economy, we need to keep Bristol moving. Our growing city needs an efficient, integrated transport network we can all rely on. This means improving our existing public transport options, promoting walking and cycling, and delivering new and sustainable ways for people to get across our city. To do that, we need to do what no one in

Bristol has done for decades – to work together and properly invest in our public transport system. Tinkering around the edges with a traffic light here and a junction there is not good enough. The status quo of delays and traffic congestion is not an option. Our new Bus Deal is the start of the transformation of Bristol’s public transport that will deliver improvements across our bus

network, and help you have confidence in public transport in Bristol. The Bristol Bus Deal will see the council and our bus operators working together to make sure buses in the city are more frequent and more reliable. We will do our part by investing in our transport system. We will use technology and infrastructure changes to give buses priority on vital routes. In return, bus operators will increase the frequency of buses on our key routes at peak commuter times. I want people in Bristol to see immediate improvements. We’ll start by working with First Bus to deliver upgrades and extra services on the number 2 bus route. This deal is part of plans to transform transport in Bristol. It will also help us build our case to government for an underground system that will take millions of car journeys off our roads and make it easier for all of us to get around our city. We remain the only Core City without a mass transit system, and that must change. Bristol cannot wait for the transport network it deserves.

“ Our growing city needs an efficient, integrated transport network we can all rely on.”

To find out more, call 01179 717 880 or visit crystalclearbristol.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2019

southbristolvoice

n CREATIVE COLUMN with Sophie Davies, Paper Heart Productions

n NEWS

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde comes to local cemetery

Gifts that show you really care

aper Heart puts love on paper so you can show those who you care about that you really, really do. Original pen and ink artwork provides an original, unique and thoughtful gift. This is what led artist Sophie Davies to create Paper Heart Productions. Having worked for 18 years as a commercial insurance broker (not as much fun to talk about at dinner parties) Sophie redesigned her work life balance around her newly born daughter Cerys with her skill and passion for the positive influence of art. All hand drawn, and very intricate, no two works can ever be exactly the same thus providing a unique piece of art but without the gallery prices. From commissions of personal phrases to positive matchboxes (seeing is believing) to house and dog portraits (both past and present) each gift is a special hug from sender to receiver. Sophie said: “I love that people have a special piece of my original art in their homes. “The thought of the recipients receiving these gifts brings a smile to my face and I hope to theirs. The support and feedback I have had from my amazing customers make all the paper cuts worthwhile!” Sophie Davies, 07799662520 E: sophiepaperheart@gmail.com Insta: @paperheartproductions Facebook: paperheartproductions4

Returning for a fourth year following three sell-out Gothic horrors, Red Rope theatre company will be at Arnos Vale Cemetery with psychological thriller, Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Adapted by award winning writer Matt Grinter, Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is about repression, liberation, addiction and malice. It is a story of the human condition, identity and friendship. Tickets for the show, which runs from November 6-16, start from £11.50 and can be purchased online at redropetheatre.co.uk/ Productions. The show, which has strong themes of violence and horror, is recommended for 14 years and above. Disabled access and parking is available on request.

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

November 2019

southbristolvoice

Write to news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or to LETTERS 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX

Local failure on Green issues We are writing in response to the letter last month from Mr Gingell. Yes - it is absolutely true that we greeted the Mayor’s environmental responses with less than enthusiasm. This is because they are weak and woolly and were not helped by the tedious excuses about it all being central government’s fault that he did not have proper answers. Yes - it is true that a wide range of environmental groups stated, a year after Liberal Democrats left government in 2015, that we had moved from the greenest government ever to the grayist. But that is not an excuse for local failure. As well as a lack of a coherent plan on tackling climate change on the overlapping issue of air quality the mayor’s failures have become a sick joke as Bristolians continue to die from pollution at a rate of 300 per year. Cllr Gary Hopkins and Cllr Chris Davies

No rubbish here! I have been involved in Victoria Park Action Group for the last 16 years so I’m well aware of the problems of rubbish being left scattered in the park after hot summer weekends. This has often been caused by well-meaning park users leaving rubbish at the foot of bins when full, only for wind or wildlife to disperse this around the park over night. Thankfully the last few summers, this problem has largely been eliminated by the council

having an efficient schedule for clearing the rubbish as well as park users changing their behaviour and taking rubbish home if bins are full. I’d like to take the opportunity to thank thoughtful park users and the parks department for making this happen, particularly during extreme pressure on park budgets. Well done all! Shaun Hennessy, chair of Victoria Park Action Group

We need tolerance I am glad to read a Humanist viewpoint in October’s Thought of the Month, but regard the comment as highly controversial and inconclusive. A decision about leaving Europe yes, but brough about by orderly negotiation knowing it will influence our every day lives for years head. Surely not just any decision? The difference between politics and religion I see in reverse to Don Cameron’s view. In politics, decisions can be changes and not stuck with, as witnessed by struglles for civil rights. In religion, decisions are passed down as authority from the Almighty with fear of final retribution or reward, once and for all. The issue of tolerance is avoided, to say as Humanists, everyone can choose their own beliefs where they do no harm and what we need is tolerance. Tolerance of diversity in people rests on adequate support for a caring society, through knowledge and resources. Collectively, we can make life better on our old home, planet Earth. Hopefully with time and chance on our side! April Foy, Knowle

n NEWS

Local film producers thank community for BAIT success Two Totterdown filmmakers say they have been “blown away” by the success of a film they produced about a Cornish fishing village, and have thanked the local community for its support. Residents Linn Waite and Kate Byers, of Early Day Films, produced BAIT, a low budget black and white film, and it has been regarded as “one of the most successful UK independent releases of the year”. It has been so successful that it has been nominated for ‘Best British Film’ at the Screen Awards. Following its release, BAIT, shot by Cornish director Mark Jenkin and distributed by the British Film Institute (BFI), sustained its place in the UK cinema box office top 30 by taking more than £300k in ticket sales in its first month of

release. The film went on general release on August 30 and tells the story of conflicts between locals and incomers in a Cornish fishing village. Linn said: “We’re been blown away by the success BAIT, our first feature film, is enjoying all over the UK and beyond, but one of the greatest thrills has been the response from local people. “The support from our fantastic local community is one of the reasons BAIT achieved such a long run at Watershed (six weeks!) – outselling every other film there this year apart from the Oscar-winning The Favourite. We can’t thank south Bristol enough - you made that happen.” with To vote for BAIT as ‘Best British Film’ visit: bit.ly/baitscreen-awards. Voting closes with October 31.

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2019

southbristolvoice

n THOUGHT OF THE MONTH

with Minister Jason Snethen Bedminster Church of Christ

hank you, thank you, thank you. So much in our lives could inspire gratitude. We say thanks for the birthday present - whether we like it or not. We sing out ‘cheers, drive’ as we hop off the bus. Thank you is part of our courtesy, but real gratitude is part of our attitude. There’s no limit on gratitude. I can be thankful for GENERAL things: l That three buses showed up at

once... instead of none! l Living in a country where you can protest peacefully without wearing a mask Thankful for INTIMATE things that matter just to me: l My frayed old shoelace didn’t break when I was running late for work l That someone answered when I dialled 999 after my neighbour poked himself in the eye with a bamboo cane

Thankful for FAMILIAR things that make life comfortable: l Clean water from the tap l Wasting time with my phone l And Facebook to waste it on. Even thankful for TEMPORARY things like: l The amazing colours as the leaves change and fall l The first coffee of the day General, Intimate, Familiar, Temporary. Viewed this way, everything is a G.I.F.T.

Regular Services

bristolnazarene.com Sunday 10.30am Sunday Service; Wednesday 6pm Kids Klub; Thursday 7pm Youth club.

stgerardmajella@cliftondiocese.com gerardmajellaknowle.co.uk Sunday Mass 9am & 5pm Tues, Weds, Fri Mass 10am Sat Exposition 9.30am Benediction 10.15am Mass 10.30am Confession 11am

n Bedminster Church of Christ

298 St John’s Lane BS3 5AY Minister: Jason Snethen 07795 560990 churchofchristbristol.org Sunday 10am Bible Hour for all ages; 11am Worship; 5pm Worship; Tuesday 7.30pm Bible study; Thursday 10am Coffee morning; Friday 3.45-5pm After-school; 7-9.30pm Youth group.

n Bedminster Quaker Meeting House Wedmore Vale BS3 5HX Clerk:

n Holy Nativity Church Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2AG Fr Steve Hawkins 07834 462054 Facebook: Holy Nativity Knowle Sunday 10am Parish Mass; Friday 10.30am Weekday Mass.

n Knowle Methodist Church

Chrissie Williams 0117 923 0020 bristolquakers.org.uk Sunday Worship 10.45am; 2nd & 4th Sunday Children’s meeting; 2nd Sunday Shared lunch.

Redcatch Road, Knowle BS4 2EP Rev Sally Spencer southbristolmc.org. uk Sunday 10.30am Worship and Junior Church (Minnows for pre-school children).

n Church of the Nazarene

Talbot Road, Knowle BS4 2NP Parish Priest Fr George Henwood 0117 983 3924 • bristol.

Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RD Pastor: Matthew Norris 07967 199995

n St Gerard Majella

Stacking up gratitude for little things will give you a shot at contentment in spite of lacking some big things. The Bible says: In every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Gratitude doesn’t change whether or not we still have needs, but it can change the lens we use to view those needs. Oh, and thank you - for reading! Wednesday 10am Family Communion

n Totterdown Baptist Church

n St Martin’s Wells Road, Knowle S4

2NG Rev Becky Waring 0117 977 6275 Facebook: stmartinschurchknowle Sunday 8.30am Holy Communion; 1st, 3rd and 5th Sundays 10.30am Holy Communion; 2nd Sunday 9.30am Rise and Shine: informal service, breakfast; 6pm Holy Communion; 4th Sunday 10.30am Family Communion.

n St Michael & All Angels Vivian

Wells Road BS4 2AD tbc.org.uk Sunday 10.30am Morning Service; 2nd Sunday All-age Service; 6.30pm Evening Service (entrance Sydenham Road).

n Totterdown Methodist Church

Bushy Park, Totterdown BS4 2AD Rev Sally Spencer southbristolmc.org. uk Sunday Family Worship 10.30am; 1st Sunday Sunday School.

n Victoria Park Baptist Church Sylvia Avenue BS3 5DA 0117 977 2484

victoriapark.org.uk

Sunday 10.30am Service with groups for all ages; coffee 11.30am. 2nd Sunday Parade Service; 3rd Sunday Communion.

Street, Windmill Hill BS3 4LW Rev Andrew Doarks 0117 977 6132 stmikechurch.co.uk Sunday 10am Family Service;

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November 2019

southbristolvoice

BRISTOL A.R.C. UPDATE

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre

We’re on the hunt for volunteer animal care assistants

e have exciting new Volunteer Animal Care Assistant (VACAs) roles available at Bristol A.R.C. Our VACAs support and work alongside our Animal Care and Behaviour Teams, helping us to provide a high standard of care for all the animals

resident at The Rehoming Centre. The tasks are varied, from cleaning, feeding, grooming and bathing, to exercising and assisting members of the public and other volunteers with queries. Due to the level of training we will need to provide, we are looking

for volunteers who are able to provide a weekly commitment of at least 4 hours, and all volunteers for this role must be aged 18+. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact us on volunteering@bristolarc.org.uk or call 01179 803 903 to request a

full volunteer role description and application form. All successful applicants will be invited for an interview with our animal care team, followed by a general induction to the charity and health and safety training. We look forward to hearing from you!

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merchantsacademy.org @MA16_SixthForm 0117 301 5000

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2019

southbristolvoice

n YOUR MP

KARIN SMYTH

Opportunities at Post-16 vital

very year, I work closely with City of Bristol College to put on a Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair in Bristol South. And every year, I chat to young people keen to pursue a career in construction. When there is significant house-building in Bristol South, it makes sense to link these two elements. We need skilled construction workers to build these houses. We need decent job and training opportunities for local people. Now, the two have come together with plans for a new Advanced Construction Skills Centre at the South Bristol Skills Academy in Hengrove. Following the Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair in February, I spent time looking at the artist’s impressions on display at the City of

Bristol College. It’s something I’ve long supported. Seeing a similar centre at Weston College earlier this year brought home to me just how valuable the Construction Skills Centre will be to people in Bristol South. After meeting with the minister and regional authority in support of the college’s bid for an Advanced Construction Skills Centre, I was delighted to learn that the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership is investing £6 million to help make this happen. Planning permission has now been granted and work is due to start in the New Year. The centre itself will be in the heart of some of the city’s house building programme in Hengrove. An impressive 3,500m2 building, it will house state-of-the-art training facilities. Due to open in September 2021, the centre will offer training during the first three years to 850 students enrolled on a range of courses, from apprenticeships (including Higher Apprenticeships) to university courses and vocational training for employees. Closer links between City of Bristol College and the University of the West of England

opens up opportunities for students to gain degree-level qualifications in Bristol South. This is particularly important as Bristol South remains at the bottom of the table when it comes to percentage of 18-year-olds going on to university – with just 16% of school leavers making that move into higher education. The centre will provide a range of vocational courses for young people as well as career development for people already in the construction sector who might be looking for more senior roles. It is this breadth of provision which allows each person to find the pathway which best suits them. If you’d like to find out more about apprenticeships in the construction industry, there’s an On Site Open Evening at the Create Centre (BS1 6XN) from 5.00 – 7.30pm on Wednesday, 27 November. No need to book, just turn up. And I’m working on my next Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair in February 2020. Twitter: @karinsmyth Facebook: KarinSmythMP Website: www.karinsmyth.com

Share your news and views with us ... email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or call 07912484405

n LOCAL SERVICES

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November 2019

southbristolvoice

n LOCAL SERVICES CYCLE SHOP

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Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Becky on 07912 484405 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk