Thornbury Voice May 2023

May, 2023 Issue 72

FREE EVERY MONTH IN THORNBURY AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES

Club's surprise Downing Street fixture

Rob's chemo appeal

A THORNBURY man with an incurable form of cancer has started a new treatment, thanks to the 'overwhelming' kindness of well-wishers.

PAGE 5

School ambitions praised in report

THORNBURY Town's chairman and vice-chair, Pete Webber and Graham Smith, met Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at 10 Downing Street after the football club was put forward for an award recognising its community work by MP Luke Hall. Full story: Page 2

Market move will cause 'chaos'

MARKET in Thornbury has been given the goahead to temporarily relocate onto a town centre car park - despite warnings it will cause "chaos".

The monthly Artisan Food, Craft and Gift Market will be held in St Mary Street car park while major roadworks take place in the High Street. South Gloucestershire Council's licensing committee approved the move despite warnings

that it was the main car park for the shopping centre, NHS walk-in centre - and that works on nearby Rock Street car park had yet to be finished. The market's organiser said many small independent businesses relied on the market and it had to find a home while the High Street was unavailable.

Turn to page 3

A THORNBURY junior school's "safe and nurturing environment" and ambitions for pupils have been praised by an inspector.

PAGE 4

Hall future in focus

THE battle over the future of Thornbury’s Armstrong Hall could soon take a new twist.

PAGE 13

Election preview

FIND out who is standing for election in your area, as voters prepare to decide who runs South Gloucestershire Council.

PAGES 6-10

Property experts working in the Thornbury property market since the early 1980’s, coping with fast markets, slow markets, boom or recession but always working our hardest to achieve the absolute best for our clients.

Please contact Rowena Moncrieffe for further details…

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Thornbury Voice contacts

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Ken McCormick, Editor contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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Richard Drew, Publisher 01454 800 120 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Award takes Thorns to No 10

THORNBURY Town's top brass met the Prime Minister as the club received an award for its community work.

The football club was nominated by Thornbury & Yate MP Luke Hall as his Community Champions for its work to promote grassroots football development and expand the women’s and girls' game in South Gloucestershire.

Club chairman Pete Webber and vice-chair Graham Smith were invited to 10 Downing Street in late March as the MP's guests, to meet Rishi Sunak and people from 50 areas around the country who were being recognised for the valuable work they do in their communities.

Pete said: “Being invited to a reception in Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister was a day we will never forget. This nomination was a proud moment for the club and everyone associated with it.”

Describing the experience as "surreal", Pete and Graham stressed that the award was "very much in recognition of the hard work that all the committee, coaches and members have contributed to the club over the years as it has grown from strength to strength".

Local information

South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk

01454 868009

Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk

01454 868009

Anti social behaviour team

asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk

01454 868582

Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk

Environment/trading standards

01454 868001

Police

www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk

general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk

General enquiries: 0117 926 2061

NHS Health

Call 111

Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk

Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

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A member of the

The club has a junior membership of more than 300 and senior membership of over 100, with over 20 teams comprising boys, girls and seniors.

It was the club's concerns over finding more pitches for junior teams to train on that brought them into contact with their MP, as they have been trying, so far without success, to persuade South Gloucestershire Council, Bloor Homes and FirstPort to let youngsters use two full-sized football pitches at Thornbury Fields development, which are currently fenced, locked and unused.

The club needs new space as green space at the back of the Castle School Sixth Form, where training and some junior tournaments are held, is set to be developed.

Luke Hall said: "As a local man I was delighted to be able to recognise the hard work of Thornbury Town as a key local organisation.

"They are an excellent community club and have done so much to develop the game here in South Gloucestershire. I look forward to seeing the club grow and will be working with them to ensure they receive the support they need.”

Thornbury are currently on the lookout for volunteers to help out on home match days.

Sport: Page 30

Elsie & Bea is a beautifully curated lifestyle and gift shop located on Thornbury High Street. A ‘Little Dutch‘ stockist as well as selling plastic free craft kits and children’s accessories.

They also sell wonderful home decor such as dried flowers, framed prints and homeware from ‘Pretty Little Home’.

Sweet treats are also available including Macaron’s,

n Mix plus more.

'Chaos' warning as market moves to car park

From page 1

Four residents lodged objections to the plans to relocate the market, due to concerns about the loss of spaces in the car park.

But the market organisers have promised to leave some spaces free, including for disabled drivers and people going to the NHS walk-in centre.

The market is run by Green Top Events, a Welsh company which has now been granted a

street trading licence from South Gloucestershire Council to use St Mary Street car park.

The council’s licensing subcommittee gave their approval during a hearing on April 21.

Town councillor Fiona Deas told the meeting: “We really like the Green Top event and in the High Street - it’s been extremely successful.

"However, if they take up St Mary Street car park, the electric charging bays will be no longer accessible.

Overnight work underway

THORNBURY'S Rock Street car park is being closed overnight while resurfacing work is completed.

South Gloucestershire Council said the closures, from 8pm-6am, would be finished by the end of the first week in May.

Work started last month on the controversial permanent changes to Thornbury High Street, with 'low level' fencing installed.

In an update on the works, the council said: "Our team working on the High Street are working twilight shifts, 6pm-2am Monday to Friday, to minimise the impact on businesses and residents. "We recognise that there will be some disruption, noise and vibrations and we will minimise this as far as is reasonably practicable and schedule noisier work earlier in the shift.

"We have been in conversation with the local community, businesses and our Equality and Accessibility group to address any concerns when they have been raised with us.

"Following feedback, we have installed additional access points with ramps to allow people to park in Blue Badge bays and access the pavement more easily.

"Work is progressing well in Rock Street car park. Half the car park has been resurfaced and relined, creating larger parking bays.

"We have moved the Blue Badge parking bays closer to the crossing into the St Mary Centre and have installed the power supply for electric vehicle charge points."

The council is inviting people with questions or suggestions on the works to contact the Thornbury Project Team at highstreets@ southglos.gov.uk.

"Also, it’s the main car park for the St Mary Centre, and in there is the NHS walk-in centre.

“The Rock Street car park is down to half [capacity].

"To also not have Rock Street car park, it will cause chaos, I think, in Thornbury.

"It will affect local businesses paying business rates. I don’t think the market will be very successful if nobody can park anywhere.”

The Rock Street car park is being redeveloped by the council alongside the major changes to the High Street. Works are scheduled to be completed there in May, while the works to the High Street are expected to last another 10 months.

Gareth O’Sullivan, managing director of Green Top Events, said: "We’ve got a lot of small businesses who are relying on this market.

"We’ve cut the numbers back so we don’t take up as much parking.

"We tend to get 30 to 40 traders but we’ve cut this down to 22 for the first one.

"The need for the market is there, and residents and customers are constantly messaging us - they want us back twice a month again.

"Hopefully once the High Street is done we can look at that.

"If we stopped the market altogether, it would be so hard to build it back up.

“We need the market to continue. It’s going to be one Saturday a month, between 7am for set up until 4.30pm once we’re gone.

"I can understand that you’re going to lose car parking spots, but at the same time, to lose the market altogether, I think would be a lot worse. A lot of small independent businesses are relying on this market.”

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Rock Street car park. Picture: South Gloucestershire Council

School's values and ambitions praised in report

A THORNBURY junior school's "safe and nurturing environment" and ambitions for all pupils have been praised by an inspector.

Crossways Junior School in Knapp Road has been rated 'good' overall in its first inspection by regulator Ofsted since the start of the pandemic.

The watchdog visited in February this year, and said school leaders ensured that the school values of "contribute, aspire, respect and equality (CARE)" were at the heart of everything they do.

However the inspector said that while the grade had not changed since the previous inspection, there was evidence the school might not get such a high grade in a more detailed inspection, which will be carried out next time round.

Inspector Alan Derry said in his report: "Staff are ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.

"Pupils work hard, enjoy learning and take great pride in their achievements."

The inspector said pupils are friendly and welcoming, and supportive of each other.

He added: "As they grow in this safe and nurturing environment, pupils develop confidence and self-esteem."

The school has 241 pupils aged seven to 11, and is run in a federation with Crossways Infant School at the same site.

The report says pupils behave well, and are polite and courteous. It also says staff are passionate about providing the

best learning opportunities, and reading in particular has a high priority.

Robust leadership of the provision for pupils with special educational needs or disabilities ensures that pupils with the greatest level of need learn well in school, the inspector said.

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, and leaders place a strong emphasis on the well-being of their staff team. Staff feel valued and are proud to work at the school.

However, the report identifies some areas for improvement, and says that in the wider curriculum, teachers do not always focus sharply enough on the important knowledge pupils need to remember.

It says: "Leaders must complete the curriculum work they have already started in

conjunction with the local authority and ensure consistent implementation across all classes.

"Not all pupils who are struggling to learn to read are achieving as well as they could.

"Leaders have correctly

identified the next steps for improvement."

It also says some pupils, currently working below agerelated expectations, are not achieving as well as they could, adding: "They are not always supported sufficiently to catch up in core areas of their learning such as mathematics. Leaders should continue to embed the agreed teaching approach and where necessary support teachers to implement proven interventions to help these pupils catch up quickly.”

Headteacher Jo Geoghegan said: "I am pleased that Ofsted recognised that Crossways is a safe, nurturing environment where pupils develop well.

“I am incredibly proud of our pupils and staff and the work they do every day to make Crossways a great place to learn.

“There are always things schools can do better and with the support of our community I am confident that the school will go from strength to strength.’

Parents join in the fun

PARENTS of children in Reception classes at Crossways Infant School came in to spend a morning learning alongside their children at the end of term.

The parents lent a hand with seed planting and some Easter activities, including making hats, bunnies and playing games.

Headteacher Jo Geoghegan said: "It was fabulous to have so many parents join us for this session and we’re looking forward to opening classrooms up for more events like this."

The Junior Choir from Crossways School won two trophies in the Thornbury Eisteddfod. The choir, made up of children aged from seven to 11, performed a number of songs including the Gary Barlow hit, Sing, before an audience of parents and residents. Crossways pupils also performed in the speech and drama, and musical theatre categories.

A THORNBURY man with an incurable form of cancer has started a new treatment, thanks to the kindness of well-wishers.

In less than a week, hundreds of people donated more than £11,000 to Rob Hale's online appeal – enough for the first round of chemotherapy.

Rob has acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a cancer of the blood and bone marrow.

He was rejected for treatment with a chemotherapy drug called Nelarabine on the NHS as it is palliative, which means it is to ease his symptoms rather than a cure.

But thanks to the fundraiser, he paid for a first course of the treatment privately at the end of April – and hopes it will buy him more time.

Rob said he was overwhelmed when the appeal hit £5,000 in the first day. It had passed £12,000 as the Voice went to press.

He said: “I woke up in the morning, less than 12 hours after creating it, and just burst into tears when I saw the donations that had come in overnight and the kind messages accompanying them.

“I honestly didn't expect such an overwhelmingly positive response.”

Rob was diagnosed in 2021. In December the 33-year-old aerospace engineer was told his cancer was incurable; he hosted a 'living funeral' to say goodbye to friends and family in January.

Now he is hoping the new treatment will keep him well enough to see the birth of his sister Nikki Foss’s baby boy this summer.

Rob said the donations and money from his parents had enabled him to start the first round of private treatment, which takes 21 days, including five in hospital.

He said: "This chemo won't cure me, but they hope it will slow down the leukaemia enough to make another treatment they've applied for viable when it arrives.”

Rob’s doctors have asked an American pharmaceutical company for a free course of

Appeal for treatment buys Rob more time

another chemotherapy drug which, if successful, the NHS might consider buying in the future.

He said: "They have applied for the other option on compassionate grounds, but it can take upwards of four to six weeks to arrive, and the consultant fears that at the rate I am declining, it may arrive too late.

“This won't save me, but they hope it will ease my symptoms or hopefully buy me an extra few months.

"I want to be remembered for never giving up and for taking all the options at my disposal.

“I’m going to die this year regardless, but thanks to these donations I might get to see the birth of my nephew at the end of summer.”

Rob’s fundraising page is at www.gofundme.com/f/Robschemo-fundraiser.

Rob is also urging people to join the Anthony Nolan Trust stem cell register.

Rob Hale undergoing treatment

n LOCAL ELECTIONS

Control of council up for grabs

SOUTH Gloucestershire voters will decide the future political direction of the council when they go to the polls on Thursday, May 4.

The council's ruling Conservatives are defending 33 seats - an overall majority of five - after holding on to power when the party lost control of many nearby councils at the last elections in 2019.

The Liberal Democrats, the biggest opposition group going into the elections with 17 seats, are the only other party contesting all 61 seats up for election on the unitary authority, which has responsibility for public services including waste and recycling, school provision, road maintenance, housing and planning.

The Tories have run the council since 2007 and held an overall majority since 2015, while the Lib Dems last had one in 2003, with other parties holding the balance of power at times when no one party is in overall control.

The third largest party going into the elections is Labour, which is standing 43 candidates and defending 11 seats, while the Greens, who currently have no councillors, are standing 16 candidates.

There are six independent candidates, two from Reform UK, and one from the National Housing Party.

Whoever wins this time there will be a new council leader, after Toby Savage, who has led the ruling Tory cabinet since 2018, announced shortly before nominations closed that he was stepping down as a councillor, having recently become a father for the second time.

Labour leader Pat Rooney is also stepping down, announcing her retirement after 30 years on South Gloucestershire Council and predecessor Kingswood borough.

The Voice asked the four biggest parties in the election to sum up their manifesto pledges for readers.

Their responses are printed in order of their strength in the council chamber going into the election.

Conservative

THE Conservatives have a proven track record of delivering.

From record levels of investment in schools, multi-million pound road surfacing schemes, record breaking recycling rates and ensuring car parking remains free across South Glos, we have a proven record.

If re-elected, we will continue to prioritise the things that matter. We will ensure that new homes are built in the right places and that our precious environment is protected. We will continue to invest in our local road network to keep it in tip top condition and ensure attainment levels in schools remain

Labour

OUR community is brimming with potential, but years of Conservative control on South Gloucestershire Council are holding our people and places back.

Listening to residents, we will build a better South Gloucestershire together:

Housing: Enforcing planning laws so a third of all new housing developments are affordable. Working with landlords to make rental properties warmer and cheaper for tenants.

Transport: Increasing the Council’s financial contribution to bus services. Working with our Labour Metro Mayor to train more bus drivers.

NHS and social care: Campaigning for the promised Minor Injuries Unit at Cossham and community beds at Frenchay. Working with NHS partners on early mental health interventions.

high.

We will continue to support our high streets and businesses by ensuring it remains free to park and will push the West of England Combined Authority for better public transport links.

We will also expand the soft plastic recycling scheme to further improve a recycling rate which is already one of the best in the country.

Liberal Democrats

WE face two huge challenges - the threat from Climate Change and the cost-of-living crisis.

Our priorities are : Tackling the Climate and Ecological emergency. Helping people insulate their homes, Cutting their carbon footprint and bills. Supporting innovation to build a greener economy.

Getting our area moving. We will work with communities and transport operators to deliver a joined-up transport system. Helping residents with the cost-of-living crisis. We will offer support and advice to people and businesses, to help them cut their bills and grow the local economy. Bringing back local decision making. Making sure your voices are heard and the issues that matter to you are tackled.

We will run South Gloucestershire Council in a completely different way - listening to and working with local people, residents, voluntary groups, Town and Parish Councils and other public authorities.

We can create a South Gloucestershire that works with everyone, for everyone.

Environment: Introducing a dedicated lead for Climate Change Action. Setting the highest standards for waste recovery and recycling. Ensuring major green spaces are accessible.

Childcare: Working with a future Labour government to build a modern childcare system that works for families and children.

Green

On 4th May, help South Gloucestershire follow our neighbours in Bristol by electing Green Party Councillors to our Council.

Our key priorities are:

Housing – balancing the needs of all residents in our local communities; supporting fair and affordable housing; and addressing the challenges of houses with multiple occupants.

Transport - reversing cuts to bus services; pushing for a bus franchise model; and continuing to oppose the development of further mega-roundabouts on the ring road. Local services - supporting local healthcare, schools, libraries and social care, and enhancing support to vulnerable communities.

Meaningful climate action - providing additional support for insulation for community buildings; enforcing the South Gloucestershire Council nature plan so that all developments protect biodiversity; and ensuring that the Council’s climate commitments are embedded throughout Council decision making.

Rivers – challenging water companies and Government to stop the dumping of raw sewage in our waterways.

Current Tory council leader Toby Savage is stepping down.

n LOCAL ELECTIONS

Ward profile: Thornbury

THORNBURY ward covers the same area as the town council - the town itself and the immediate area surrounding it.

It includes Lower Morton and Milbury Heath but most nearby villages, including Alveston, are in the neighbouring Severn Vale ward.

In 2019 the election was a twoway contest between the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives.

All three places on the council went to the Lib Dems, whose thirdplaced candidate was 1,554 votes ahead of the leading Tory, having received more than twice as much support.

The turnout was 39%.

This time, the Tories and Lib Dems are joined by two other candidates: one each from Labour and the Green Party.

The Voice invited all of the candidates, via their parties, to submit a short statement and picture, to introduce themselves to voters.

They appear here in the order they will be listed on ballot papers.

Castle Schools, £4.6m being invested into Thornbury High Street, purchasing the former hospital site to facilitate the delivery of our new health centre, and funding for new transport routes. John wants to see Thornbury thrive.

Chris Davies (LD)

A Chartered Insurer who worked in financial services, has lived and raised his family in Thornbury for 45 years. Chris is completing his first term on the Town Council, is currently Mayor of Thornbury and is hoping to join South Gloucestershire Council to continue to promote the town’s interests.

Jen Gash (Grn)

I’m an occupational therapist and artist who lives in Thornbury with my family.

Janet Buxton (Con)

Conservatives have committed unprecedented funding into renewing Thornbury's infrastructure – over £16million into improving Marlwood and Castle Schools, £4.6m being invested into Thornbury High Street, purchasing the former hospital site to facilitate the delivery of our new health centre, and funding for new transport routes. Janet wants to see Thornbury thrive.

John Buxton (Con)

Conservatives have committed unprecedented funding into renewing Thornbury's infrastructure – over £16million into improving Marlwood and

Westminster politicians and big business do not prioritise the needs or address the impact of environmental issues on the wellbeing and futures of ordinary people in places like Thornbury. Local people need a choice to vote Green.

Olivia Owusu-Antwi (Con)

Conservatives have committed unprecedented funding into renewing Thornbury's infrastructure – over £16million into improving Marlwood and Castle Schools, £4.6m being invested into Thornbury High Street, purchasing the former hospital site to facilitate the delivery of our new health centre, and funding for new transport routes. Olivia wants to see Thornbury thrive.

Jayne Stansfield (LD)

Jayne is an experienced South Glos and Town Councillor. She was a teacher at Castle School and now is a lecturer at Bristol University. Jayne wants to continue as a councillor to achieve more emphasis on building homes to meet local need with open spaces for residents.

Maggie Tyrrell (LD)

Maggie is an experienced Councillor whose latest role on South Glos Scrutiny Commission has confirmed her belief that consultation and collaboration are key to good decision-making. Maggie is also a tennis official,

organising tournaments for young people across the region. She’s a proud grandmother of two girls and two boys.

Alasdair Weeks (Lab)

"I'm a 35-year-old married father-of-two. I moved to Thornbury to raise my family amongst a brilliant community. If elected I will fight to: Restore vital local public transport connections. Use SGC's healthy reserves to help with the cost of living crisis. Improve the poorly-planned High Street redevelopment. Reopen Armstrong Hall."

Key to parties, as described on nomination statements:

Con: Conservative Party Candidate

Grn: Green

Lab: Labour Party

LD: Liberal Democrats

Ward profile: Severn Vale

THE Severn Vale ward is one of the biggest by area in South Gloucestershire.

Stretching from Upper Hill and Shepperdine in the north to Almondsbury in the south, it wraps around the Thornbury ward on three sides.

Villages in the ward, which elects two councillors, include Alveston, Olveston, Tockington, Oldbury-on-Severn, Aust and Rockhampton.

In 2019 two Conservative candidates were elected, with the leading Liberal Democrat candidate 502 votes behind in third.

UKIP were in fifth place, 130 votes ahead of Labour, but are not fielding a candidate this time.

The turnout was 42%.

The Voice invited all of the candidates, via their parties, to submit a short statement and picture, to introduce themselves to voters.

Keith Burchell (Con)

Keith Burchell was born and grew up in South Gloucestershire. He is married, has two sons and four grandchildren. Served as a Police Officer and later as a Child Protection Officer with the Gloucestershire Football Association. Enjoys gardening, watching rugby and taking his grandchildren swimming.

Naomi Carroll (Lab)

The Labour Party has not submitted a statement or picture for this candidate.

Abigail Curtis (Lab)

Mark Oaten (LD)

Mark lives in the village of Buckover on a small holding just outside of Thornbury. If elected he wants to fight for local buses, stop over-development and restore life back into Thornbury town centre. He has over 20 years’ experience in both national and local government.

Matthew Riddle (Con)

Matthew is a member of his local church, plays whist and cribbage, and enjoys cider-making.

Tony Williams (LD)

Tony has been an Olveston Parish Councillor for many years. He is Treasurer of the local football club that he has been a committee member of for over 30 years. He is a long term resident of Olveston and has served as a South Glos councillor in the past.

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They appear here in the order they will be listed on ballot papers.

The Labour Party has not submitted a statement or picture for this candidate.

Matthew Riddle, born in Oldbury, has lived in the Severn Vale all his life, is married and has two sons. He attended The Castle School and lectures to degree level in agriculture and the environment.

Key to parties, as described on nomination statements:

Con: Conservative Party Candidate

Lab: Labour Party

LD: Liberal Democrats

n LOCAL ELECTIONS

Ward profile: Charfield

CHARFIELD is one of South Gloucestershire's smallest wards by population, with fewer than 3,300 voters on the register at the last election.

Geographically it covers a large area, from Charfield itself in the east to Falfield and Eastwood Park in the west and Heath End in the south: both Bradley Stoke wards, along with Patchway, Filton and Stoke Gifford combined, would fit comfortably inside its boundaries, although the ward is only about a quarter of the size of Severn Vale.

The ward elects a single councillor.

In 2019, the Liberal Democrats won comfortably, gaining more than three times as many votes as the Conservatives in second, with a majority of 619. Labour was a distant third.

The turnout in 2019 was 37%.

This time the Green Party has a candidate standing in the ward, but there is no Labour candidate.

The Voice invited all of the candidates, via their parties, to

submit a short statement and picture, to introduce themselves to voters.

They appear here in the order they will be listed on ballot papers.

Michaela has lived in South Glos for 24 years and in Charfield 5 years with her Husband and 17-year-old Daughter. She runs 2 Children's Theatre Schools. Previously a parish councillor and narrowly missed joining South Glos Council in 2015. She is passionate about the area and the people in it.

John lives in Charfield and is a local councillor, campaigning to improve the lives of residents in the Charfield Ward. At South Glos he is the Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Health Scrutiny and Audit and Accounts, he is also a member of the West of England Combined Authority Audit Committee.

People everywhere are fed up with just the usual options at the polling booths. Standing for the Green Party in Charfield is an opportunity to provide residents with a different direction. I run a successful dental laboratory. My family moved to Charfield in 2019 to enjoy a more rural lifestyle.

Key to parties, as described on nomination statements:

Con: The Conservative Party Candidate

Grn: Green

LD: Liberal Democrat Focus Team

Michaela Crumpton (Con)

John O`Neill (LD)

Pete Watts (Grn)

n LOCAL ELECTIONS

Election's over in uncontested parishes

WHILE candidates in South Gloucestershire Council's elections prepare for polling day, some of the area's town and parish councillors have been elected already.

No elections will take place in 69 wards across the district - in some cases covering entire parishes - because not enough candidates came forward to make a vote necessary.

In the Thornbury area they include Alveston and Olveston parish councils, Charfield Parish Council and the South East ward of Thornbury Town Council.

And two parish councils in the area - Rockhampton and Tytherington & Itchington - have had no candidates at all nominated for their five and seven seats respectively.

Nominations will be reopened for these councils within 35 days of polling day on May 4, as well as in Almondsbury Parish Council's Compton ward, where there were also no candidates.

Elections will only take place in 22 parish or town council wards - about one in four of the total across the district.

But those elections include three in Thornbury Town Council's North East, North West and South wards.

In the North East ward, seven candidates are standing for the four available places.

They are independents Helen Ball, Geoffrey Kitchen and Helen Moszoro, Green Party candidate Danny Bonnett, Conservative Franklin Owusu-Antwi - a South Gloucestershire Council cabinet member - and Liberal

Democrats Jayne Stansfield, who is also running to retain her South Gloucestershire Council seat, and Mark Oaten, a former MP.

In Thornbury's North West ward, independents Gil Gilroy, James Murray and John Reynolds, who is a committee member for the Thornbury Town and District Residents Association, and Liberal Democrats Phil O'Rourke and Chris Woodhouse, are standing for the four seats, with one candidate set to miss out.

Thornbury's South ward has six candidates contesting its four seats: Liberal Democrats Chris Bloor, Helen Harrison, Cheryl Jenkinson and Simon Johnson, Rosemary Millar, who is not running with a label, and Conservative Olivia Owusu-Antwi.

Almondsbury Parish Council will have an election in its Almondsbury ward: the five candidates are Liberal Democrat Drew Clayton, independents Antonio Piccioni and Tony Randall, and Marion Stooke and Diane Wilson, who are both running without party labels.

All the other parish and town council wards in Thornbury and surrounding villages will not have contested elections.

In Thornbury's South East ward, Liberal Democrats Chris Davies, Kath Greenman and Maggie Tyrrell have been elected unopposed, along with "Local Independent" Fiona Deas.

The other parish councillors in the Thornbury area who have been elected unopposed, with party labels, where declared, are:

Alveston - Paul Caddick, Anne Curtis, John Graham, Marion

Reeve, Carmen Vazquez and Valerie Williams.

Aust - Ian Jenkins, Stephen Meredith, David Spratt and Jeremy Warren (Independent).

Charfield - Stuart Ashe, Judith Law, Naomi Newns, Tony Parker, Peter Peaster, Mark Rosher, Alexis Threlfall (Independent) and Pete Watts (Green).

Cromhall - Mark Daniel, Daren Jeffery, Michael Line, Lorraine

McMullen and Andrew New. Falfield - Kenneth Fryer, Andrew Gregory, Jane Hathway, Emma Jarvis and Ian Salt.

Oldbury-on-Severn - Sheila Bedford, Laura Day, Chris Jennings and Matthew Riddle.

Olveston - Di Buckley, Martin Gibson, Miles Grocott, John Hughes, Pat Savage, Tony Turnbull and Tony Williams.

Remember: you need photo ID to vote

POLLING takes place from 7am to 10pm on Thursday, May 4, with counting getting underway immediately afterwards.

For the first time, all voters will need to bring formal photo identification, such as a driving licence or passport with them to the polling station or face being turned away, under a law which has just come into force.

Free Voter Authority Certificates, which allow people without other accepted forms of photo ID to vote, have been made available, but the deadline to apply for one has already passed.

Other acceptable forms of photo ID include: a biometric immigration document, Proof of Age Standards Scheme ID card, Ministry of Defence ID card, blue badge, national identity card issued by an EEA state, older person’s or disabled person’s bus pass, Oyster 60+ Card or Freedom Pass.

The photo ID law has been controversial, with opposition councillors warning earlier this year that more than 8,000 people in South Gloucestershire do not have the required identification and could be "disenfranchised" as a result.

The law has been brought in to prevent electoral fraud, but opponents say there have only been two convictions for the crime in the past five years, while hundreds were turned away from polling stations in trial areas in 2019.

Research by the Electoral Commission shows voters less likely to have an accepted form of ID are over-85s, people with disabilities, homeless and transgender people.

Kids take aim at holiday boredom

THORNBURY youth work charity Krunch South West went to great lengths to keep the town's young people entertained over the school holidays.

A four-day holiday activities and food programme, funded by South Gloucestershire Council, saw children offered a wide variety of things to do, from pizza making to hair braiding, bushcraft and graffiti art.

Two days out were included in the programme, with Four Towns transport taking them to try their skills at a Ninja Warriors adventure, as well as tackling the assault course and archery tag at Mojo Active.

Krunch Manager Penny Baker said: "It's fantastic that our school holiday activities proved so popular with the young people in South Gloucestershire.

"We were pleased to see some new faces come along and join us for the first time.

"Every session involved a healthy meal, which the young people were able to get involved

in cooking.

"Providing a healthy lunch and encouraging young people to stay active is an important part of the programme, and we are grateful to receive the funding from South Gloucestershire

Council.

"We are already looking forward to our summer programme!”

All young people are welcome at Krunch’s weekly youth clubs, on Wednesdays for school years 6 to 9 and Thursdays for school

years 9 to 12.

Both take place from 6:308pm at Turnberrie's Community Centre and admission is £1.

For more details see Krunch South West’s Facebook page or website.

Children at the archery tag event organised by Krunch

OurAquaparkisnowopen-bookaspotnow andjoinusforsomeinflatablefun!

Coronation celebrations

THORNBURY is joining the Coronation party spirit, with people in the town invited to several events.

The biggest two are a community picnic on Coronation day, with live big screen coverage of the event, and a Big Lunch event in Castle Street the following day.

Thornbury Town Council is hosting the Community Coronation Picnic at the Mundy Playing Fields on Saturday May 6.

The Coronation ceremony will be shown on a giant screen, and members of the public are encouraged to bring along a picnic.

There will be activities for children, who are also encouraged to take part in the royal-themed dressing up competition.

Marquees will be provided to guard against the weather and the play area's splash pad will be open in time for the event.

Attendees are encouraged to walk or cycle where possible, and a ‘ride and stride’ facility is available from Thornbury Leisure Centre.

Parking at the Mundy Playing Fields will be restricted to prebooked disabled parking only.

More information, including booking details for disabled parking, is available on the the town council's website, thornburytowncouncil. gov.uk.

A spokesperson for the Big Lunch organisers Love Thornbury said they hope for a mix of stall holders selling food and drink, and entertainments for the event on Sunday May 7.

They said: “We're excited to be putting together our first event for the King's Coronation.

"The road will be closed 9am-6pm and all vehicles must be moved by 10am.

“We're still looking for stall holders - food, crafts, activities for kids, as well as volunteers to help out before and on the day.”

Anyone who wants to get involved can email hello@ lovethornburybristol.co.uk or contact Sandra Davies at The Swan on Thornbury High Street, on 01454 413062.

All

Enjoy

More information on the event can be found at www. lovethornburybristol.co.uk.

As part of Thornbury’s celebrations the Town Council has also encouraged people to make bunting for the event, which will be hung in the streets, and saved to use for future celebrations.

While South Gloucestershire Council has reported no other official street closures for parties, there are other smaller-scale events planned in the area.

Thornbury Choral Society and Thornbury Camerata are giving a concert of music which has been used for previous coronations on May 13 at 7.30pm at St. Mary’s Church, Thornbury.

The programme will include Handel’s Coronation Anthems, composed for George II in 1727, including the popular Zadok the Priest, which will be performed at Charles III's coronation and was also sung at Elizabeth II's.

Tickets are available from tickets@thornburychoralsociety.org.uk, by calling 01454-417865, from Horders Stationers and on the door.

St Peter’s Hospice Severnside Support Group is holding a Coronation Afternoon High Tea on May 11 at the Methodist Church Hall in Thornbury at 2.30pm, with musical entertainment.

Tickets are available at the town's hospice shop.

Thornbury Library is holding a Coronation coffee morning and quiz on May 3 from 11am-noon and a children's crown-making event on May 6 from 10.30-11.30am, in time for the picnic.

To mark the Coronation, Buckingham Palace is launching The Big Help Out on Monday 8th May, to encourage people to take part in volunteering activities in their community.

For more details on events, visit coronation.gov.uk/events.

Future of Armstrong Hall faces new twists

A ROW over the future of Thornbury’s Armstrong Hall could soon take a new twist.

Campaigners who want the complex renovated and re-opened are hoping the next intake of councillors elected to the town council will further their cause, as the council is the only member of the Armstrong Hall Trust, the hall's owner.

But that could change, as the trust has decided to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, which it says “will make it easier for a wider range of people to be involved in running the charity”.

The complex, which includes the Armstrong and Cossham halls, was shut at the start of the pandemic three years ago, and never re-opened.

The trust says the scale of the building work needed to make it safe to re-open left it no longer financially viable.

It hopes to sell the site for housing and use the money to build a new facility beside Turnberrie's Community Centre, in Bath Road.

But the Armstrong Hall Action Alliance (AHAA), founded two years ago, claims it can raise the £200,000 its members believe is needed for repairsplus £150,000 to get it off the ground as a viable non-profit business.

AHAA Spokesperson Jill Dimond said they have “friends in the professional performance area and other very wealthy people we can appeal to, who have already indicated interest”.

Jill said: “AHAA produced a viability study about 18 months

ago, showing that the complex could be reopened and run with enough support.

"Since then, AHAA has been unable to develop a fully costed business plan, since the trustee has refused to discuss the matter any further.”

The AHAA has urged voters to elect candidates in May who want the hall complex reopened, and has listed supportive councillors on its Facebook page.

Town councillors automatically become “representatives” of the trust, so the AHAA hopes if sympathetic candidates are elected, it could result in changes to the current plans.

The group's Facebook post accuses the town council of putting in place "unnecessary and unfounded blockers to prevent the reopening".

Jill said AHAA members believe the complex could and should be run as a community business, using volunteers to help offset staffing costs.

In response to the Facebook campaign, the town council issued a statement responding to what it called “inaccurate communications”.

It said: “The Town Council is the Trustee of the Armstrong Hall Trust, but this is entirely separate to the role and responsibilities of the Town Council as a local authority.

“Armstrong Hall Trust finances must be entirely separate from those of the Town Council and the business of the Armstrong Hall Trust must be conducted entirely separately to the Town Council.

“Councillors are not Trustees. They are automatically representatives of the Trust, but this is a completely separate duty and role to that of local councillor.”

There have been two years of argument over the hall's future, including a parish poll last year in which residents voted by a large margin to call on the town council to carry out a new consultation, which has yet to take place. The council says it does not have a remit to carry one out.

However the hall's ownership arrangements could soon change.

A trust spokesperson said: “At the last meeting of the Trust it was agreed that the

Trust should look to moving its' governance towards a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (a not-for-profit charity).

"The new CIO will make it easier for a wider range of people to be involved in running the charity."

Housing targets in election focus

A GROUP campaigning on development is also urging supporters to check whether politicians standing for election share its aims.

Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development (TRAPP'D) has asked the main four parties standing candidates for election to South Gloucestershire Council for their stance on two issues: how much of the 'overspill' of unmet demand for housing in Bristol will be allowed in the district, and whether controversial proposals for a new housing estate at Buckover will form part of the plan.

It is publishing the answers on its website trappdgroup.weebly. com.

TRAPP'D spokesperson Roger Hall said: "With so much at stake in this election our view is that it is important for every resident to be informed about the promises made by each party, to vote accordingly, and then to hold those leaders to account for their promises."

Armstrong Hall has been closed since the lockdown

Thornbury Carnival line-up unveiled

ORGANISERS of the Thornbury Carnival have announced this year's entertainment line-up.

The music of Kylie Minogue, Britpop favourites and 80s 'hair metal' are among the highlights of a programme of tribute acts and local talent.

There will be two nights of music on the Mundy Playing Fields, on June 30 and July 1.

The first night is a return of last year's ‘Swing in the Park’ event, with Thornbury Swing Band promising to fill the summer evening with the sounds of swing, jive and jazz.

Thornbury Carnival Committee chair Liam Williams said he was “absolutely delighted” that the band had had agreed to take part for a second time after last year's successful first show.

The following day's 'Main Event' will run for 12 hours, from 11am until 11pm.

First up will be a variety show with a range of amateur performers from Thornbury and the surrounding area.

The tribute acts start at 2pm with Absolutely Elton, performing many wellknown hits of Elton John.

Next follows a more contemporary tribute, Do it Like Dua, a tribute to Dua Lipa.

Britpop United will take things back to

the 90s, from ‘Madchester’ to Suede and the Stereophonics.

Funk Odyssey will take to the stage early in the evening, performing a range of 70s and 80s dance and soul favourites.

Kylie tribute On a Night Like This will be performing the Aussie star’s greatest hits from 7.45pm.

Organisers are then calling on revellers to pull out their air guitars for headline act Hairforce 5, who promise a "high energy tribute to rock bands from the 80s", from

Van Halen and AC/DC to Motley Crue and Def Leppard.

Liam said: "We really do feel like we’ve managed to put together a programme which has something for everybody.

"As well as the main stage entertainment, there will also be a Show‘n’Shine with a range of vehicles including classic, American, and modern sports.

"We’ve also refreshed the Kids Zone, while retaining favourites like face painting and balloon modelling, and we’re working with Krunch to build on last year’s activities for young people.

"We are trying to maximise everything we can offer within the ticket price."

Liam said the event costs around £50,000 to put on each year, a figure which excludes any staffing costs because all of the organisers donates their time free, both over the weekend and throughout the year.

He added: "Although the committee receives some small grants and attracts limited sponsorship, it’s nowhere near enough to cover the entire cost of delivering the event."

Ticket prices had not been confirmed as the Voice went to press.

For more information visit www. thornburycarnival.co.uk.

Last year's Queen tribute act was a big hit. Picture: Nigel Newman

Praise for 'energetic' Thornbury holiday club

AN “energetic” holiday club for children in Thornbury has been given a glowing Ofsted report.

Future Stars Coaching sessions at Manorbrook Primary School, in Park Road, were judged to have met the regulator's Early Years provision standards.

Up to 50 children, aged five to 11, attend the sessions, which run from 8am to 5pm during school holidays.

Inspector Louise Phillips said staff support children's physical health well, and encourage them to participate in a wide range of activities that support their physical and social development.

She said the friendly, welcoming staff build good connections with them.

The report said: “Younger children seek out key persons to help them resolve conflicts and to invite them into their play. Staff offer the children lots of praise and encouragement, which helps build their confidence and self-esteem.”

During the inspection last December, activities at the club included playing a range of board games, which the report said “engages the children socially and encourages critical-thinking skills”.

Physical activities, including a chasing game called 'crazy tag', are held indoors and out.

The inspector said: "This allows children to get out of breath, which supports their overall health and well-being."

The inspector said children told her they enjoyed coming to the holiday club.

Manorbrook Primary pupils with coach Harley Foley and lead coach Felix

Staff meet the needs of all children effectively, including those with special educational needs or disabilities.

The report said: "Staff follow individual plans and work closely with the parents to ensure that the children feel safe and secure at the club.

"They ensure that all children feel included in the activities and their interests are incorporated into the environment."

Regular discussions with parents help plan a range of activities, and parents receive daily feedback on what their

children have been doing.

Staff told the inspector they enjoy working at the holiday club and feel valued by the management team. Staff complete regular training online.

Lead coach Felix Britain said: "I’m over the moon with the report.

"Being a resident of Thornbury myself, it’s been great to provide such an inclusive, welcoming and fun club for the children."

Holiday club manager Mollie Payne said: "It shows the team’s hard work is being noticed not only by the children and families, but by Ofsted too. The club has gone from strength to strength over the last several years, with most days selling out.

“The children of Thornbury are so amazing to work with. We’re particularly grateful of the relationship we’ve built with the school, as they’ve allowed us to try new projects and ideas, meaning that the children get the best days with us.”

Britain.

THORNBURY Library is hosting three Coronation events in May.

A celebration cuppa and quiz takes place on May 3 from 11am-noon.

Two children's events, a Lego 'Palaces and Carriages' session and a 'Crowns for a Coronation' craft session, take place on Coronation day itself, May 6, from 9.30-10.30am and 10.30-11.30am respectively.

A drop-in half-term craft activity, the Royal Farmyard, takes place on May 31 from 10.30am-noon.

Local poet Roger Stennett will host a discussion of his life and work as a playwright, dramatist and poet and his new collection, Forty Poems for Dylan Thomas, on May 20. Tickets cost £3.20 and are available from Thornbury Library and sglibraries.eventbrite.com.

Refreshments will be available (donations to NSPCC).

Keeping warm and well sessions are being held throughout the day on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9.30am-4pm.

The Have You Read book club meets on May 5 from 2-3pm - no set novel, just drop in for refreshments and a chat about books.

Lego club meets every Saturday from 9.30-10.30am - no booking required.

Rhymetime takes place every Monday and Friday, from 9.30-10am.

A Sight Support West of England drop-in support and advice session for people with visual impairments will be held on May 15 from 10am1pm.

A computer volunteer is ready to help with your IT and online questions on Thursday mornings, with one-to-one sessions available from 9.30am.

The library is open 9.30am-5.30pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and 9.30am-12.30pm on Saturday.

Open access is from 8am-7.30pm every day.

A Home Library Service is available for anyone who finds it difficult to get to the library for books.

For bookings and home library service call 01454 868006, email thornbury.library@southglos.gov.uk or visit the website www.southglos. gov.uk/libraries.

Thornbury Rotary urgently needs tools

FOR many years, the Rotary Club of Thornbury has been involved in the shipment of tools to areas of the world that desperately need them to be self-sufficient.

The Christian charity organisation ‘Tools With A Mission’ (TWAM) continues to work tirelessly, gathering donated tools, refurbishing and sorting them, then packing them into trade tool kits that can be used by workers in poorer countries.

They work in many countries, but by far the greatest number of tools goes to Africa, principally Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Thornbury Rotary acts as a hub for the collection of tools from around the community, and is currently working with TWAM to direct some of the tools to Butterfly Space in Malawi.

The trade kits are targeted at agricultural workers, builders, carpenters, electricians, motor mechanics, plumbers, and garage workshops.

At the present time, TWAM has a particular need for sewing machines, knitting machines and fully working computers and IT equipment.

PC’s and laptops need to be running on a minimum of Microsoft Windows 7.

If anyone would like to help Rotary support TWAM, by donating tools that they no longer require, they can contact Rotarian Robin Cole-Morgan on 01454 414281.

He will arrange to pick up the tools and take them away at a time that suits everyone.

President Stuart Hill has again expressed his sincere thanks for the support of this valuable project and for all the tools donated to date.

For more information about Thornbury Rotary, please visit www. ThornburyRotary.org and about TWAM, please visit www.twam.uk.

Adrian Dennis

Octopus nomination

THORNBURY'S Octopus Drama Group has been nominated for a national award.

The group's play, Give Us A Sign, has been nominated for the Best Comedy Production gong at the annual National Operatic and Dramatic Association awards.

The play was originally due to have been staged in June 2021 but a series of covid-related cancellations, including five members of the cast and crew going down with the disease on the twice-rearranged opening night last September, meant it finally hit the stage at Christ the King Church Hall in November.

Director Jenny Dennis said: “We would like to say a big thank you to all the people who helped to make it happen.

"Give Us a Sign was written by local playwright Tony Domaille and was well received by all who came to see it - including, it seems, our local NODA rep.”

The next Octopus production is another comedy, A Bunch of Amateurs, written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman.

It is set to be performed at Christ the King Church Hall in Castle St, from June 14-17, at 7.30 pm. The cast is busy rehearsing with new director Abi McManus.

Tickets for the show are due to go on sale at Rosie and Rex Gift Shop on the High Street from May 9.

Open-air opera

MOZART'S spectacular opera Don Giovanni will be performed in a field near Thornbury this summer.

In what is being billed as the town's first open air opera, Rockhampton Village Hall Field will be the venue for the production by touring company Opera in a Box on June 18 at 2.30pm.

It will happen the day after the Rockhampton Festival, with its facilities of marquee, bar and refreshments.

The event is being organised by Armstrong Arts Group, who said: "Take all of your preconceptions about opera and throw them out of the window, as opera is taken in fresh and exciting directions. "The performance brings together a hugely talented ensemble of musicians, artists and a first rate production team."

Tickets are available from AAGThornbury@gmail.com.

AAG is looking for first aiders to attend events. Contact janeparfittrail@ gmail.com for more details.

Accordion festival

THORNBURY will host the South/South West area festival of the National Accordion Organisation on June 11.

The event will take place at Europa House in Midland Way and players and spectators are being invited to come along.

For more information, contact Andy Coles at AccordionSW@gmail.com.

Advertising feature

New exhibition at Aerospace Bristol is out of this world!

Aerospace Bristol, on the site of the former Filton Airfield, will host Luke Jerram’s Mars as part of a new Journey to Mars exhibition. The artwork will be stunningly displayed from 4th May to 5th June alongside the last Concorde ever to fly.

The temporary exhibition marks the 20th anniversary of the launch of the Beagle 2 lander on Mars Express, Europe’s first mission to Mars. It will include models of Beagle 2 and the Mars Express Orbiter on display alongside Luke Jerram’s Mars sculpture.

Measuring seven metres in diameter, Mars features

detailed NASA imagery of the Martian surface. At an approximate scale of 1:1 million, each centimetre of the internally lit spherical sculpture represents 10 kilometres of the surface of Mars.

Visitors will have the chance to view Mars from the air, as though they are a satellite, mapping and studying the surface in perfect detail, with every valley, crater, volcano and mountain laid bare to inspect. The Journey to Mars exhibition is included with museum entry.

Visit https://aerospacebristol.org/ for more information and for tickets.

n STROUD AUCTIONS

Batmobile brings in the bids

TOYS and games are a serious business for collectors.

Bidders at Stroud Auctions' April sale paid excellent prices for toys of different types and ages, from die-cast Corgi models of Eddie Stobart vehicles, sold for just under £1,000, to a 1980s Nintendo NES console and games, which made £350.

The auctioneer’s favourite lot was a vintage diesel enginepowered model pylon racing car, in the style of a 1930 single-seat racing car, which sold for £2,797 to a buyer in Australia.

A Hornby train set made a pleasing £380, while a batteryoperated vintage tinplate Batmobile sold for £300.

The highest price achieved among the 1,017 lots in the two-day sale - which featured specialist sections of toys, vinyl records, musical instruments and equipment, stamps, books, ephemera, paintings and pictures and furniture - was a mint and used world stamp collection that sold

for £4,985.

The surprise result of the sale was the £3,890 paid for a 1930’s Clifford Essex ‘Paragon’ four string tenor banjo.

When the buyer was offered £2,000 for the instrument it seemed like a significant sum, but fierce bidding on the telephones

and online proved that auction is still the best possible way of achieving the best price for your item.

In total, 1,291 bidders from 33 countries took part in the sale.

The next auction will be on June 14 and 15 at our brandnew saleroom, and will feature

jewellery, silver, watches, coins, bijouterie and designer goods and textiles.

If you’ve never thought of buying at auction, why not come along to our public viewing day on June 13, from 10am to 6pm, and see us in our new surroundings.

We are still accepting items for our July auction, which will once again include vinyl records, toys, stamps, books, ephemera, paintings and pictures and musical instruments and equipment, along with twice-yearly cameras and scientific instruments section.

If you are thinking of selling, please give us a call on 01453 873800 to book a valuation or just email and ask for advice from one of our specialists.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS

This Batmobile toy sold for £300

An Australian buyer paid almost £2,800 for this model car

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Reasons to celebrate this May

IF you’re reading this, you are likely at home, rather than work, as this May has extra bank holidays. Hurray! And if someone is nagging you to mow the lawn on your day off, tell them the Metro Mayor says you don’t have to. More on that later!

The West of England has a long heritage of May Day celebrations, dating back to pagan times.

Many have echoes in customs such as dancing round the maypole. However, this bank holiday was first brought in as a way of marking International Workers Day in 1978.

The Spring bank holiday is back to its usual slot on the last Monday of May and this year, there’s that extra day off to celebrate King Charles’s Coronation too.

Whether you’re a republican or royalist, this is certainly a moment in history.

I’ve been finding out about our region’s association with coronations. Did you know that on May 11, 973 AD, Bath Abbey was the site of the coronation of Edgar, the ‘First King of All England’?

The service used for Edgar’s coronation

was compiled by Dunstan, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the same service is being used by King Charles III.

Bath Abbey is well worth a visit, as are so many attractions across our amazing region.

I run an Explore Local campaign, and as part of this, I get to visit many fantastic museums, green spaces and other attractions. As the Spring weather improves and everyone looks to the great outdoors, I’d urge you to explore our brilliant region.

I promised to get back to mowing (well, not mowing, to be precise). Because the other thing I’m marking this month is No Mow May. A month off from cutting the lawn for the very best of causes - our bees!

Our bees need our help because they are fighting some big enemies: pesticides, habitat destruction and climate change. But they are so vital. Bees pollinate flowers and crops. In fact, one in three mouthfuls we eat depends on our pollinator pals.

One way to give bees a break is to liberate your lawn and free the wildflowers in your grassy areas so they can grow wild

and provide a feast for pollinators.

Many people are doing that, as are organisations who I’ve been encouraging to enter my annual Bee Bold Awards to showcase the region’s very best “bee buddies”. I love to see the entries - it really gets me buzzing!

Finally, I’m well aware bank holidays don’t mean a break for all, especially people in emergency service roles like nurses, police or firefighters, so a special shout out to them, and particularly to bus drivers as I work hard to recruit more.

Keep safe - and I hope you have a great May.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris writes for the

May 3-24

n SOUTH GLOS COMMUNITY

LEARNING COURSE, The Chantry, 9.30-11.30am. Confidence Building for Work, four-week course on Wednesdays. To sign up call 07548 103398 or email aimee.hilbourne@ southglos.gov.uk.

May 6

n CORONATION COMMUNITY

PICNIC, Mundy Playing Fields, from 11am. Coronation ceremony on giant screen. Bring along a picnic. Activities for children: royal-themed dressing up competition.

May 7

n LOVE THORNBURY

CORONATION BIG LUNCH, 11am4pm, Castle Street, Thornbury. Stalls, food, crafts. Bring your own chair and picnic. Have your picture taken with the life-sized cut-outs of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

May 11

n ST PETER’S HOSPICE

SEVERNSIDE SUPPORT GROUP

Coronation celebration tea party, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall, 2.30pm. Musical entertainment from Lizzie Adkins. Tickets £10, including full home-made high tea, available from hospice shop in Thornbury, or pay on the door.

May 12

n THORNBURY PICTURE

HOUSE Presents Oscar-winning film Nomadland, Thornbury Methodist Church Upper Hall. Doors open 7p.m. Members free, Guests £5. For more information about membership visit www. thornburypicturehouse.org.

May 13

n ARMSTRONG ARTS GROUP presents The Buffalo Gals, old-time country music, 7.30pm at the Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Thornbury. Tea/coffee served during the interval. Tickets £15 from AAGThornbury@gmail.com.

May 13

n THORNBURY CHORAL

SOCIETY celebrates the Coronation. St. Mary’s Church, Thornbury, 7.30pm. Tickets are £15 pre-booked or £17 on the door, £5 under 18s. Email tickets@ thornburychoralsociety.org.uk, call 01454 417865 or visit Horders Stationers after April 26.

May 18

n ALVESTON LOCAL HISTORY

SOCIETY day trip to Westbury Court Garden and Dean Heritage Centre. Coach from Alveston Shops at 9.30.am, returning about 5pm. Expected cost £30 plus lunch. To sign up call Frances Houghton on

01454 417048.

May 20

n THORNBURY FESTIVAL OF SUSTAINABILITY, St Mary Centre, Thornbury, 10am-2pm. Find out more about everything from electric cars and reducing bills to growing your own fruit and veg. Organised by Sustainable Thornbury and South Gloucestershire Council.

May 24

n ALVESTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY TALK, Alveston Methodist Church, 7.30pm. 'Boil a Mouse in Urine' - talk on child care in earlier times with Malcolm Watkins.

May 31

n SOUTH GLOS COMMUNITY LEARNING COURSE, The Chantry, 9.30-11.30am. Crafty Shapes workshop. To sign up call 07548 103398 or email aimee.hilbourne@ southglos.gov.uk.

1st June - 3rd June

n BRISTOL QUILTERS EXHIBITION……QUILTFEST!

Thursday 1st June , Friday 2nd June 10am to 5pm

Saturday 3rd June 10am to 4pm.

Admission £3 Children free. At Redland Hall, Redmaids’ High School, Westbury Rd, BS93AW

June 14-17

n OCTOPUS DRAMA GROUP presents A Bunch of Amateurs, Christ the King Church Hall, Castle Street, 7.30pm. tickets available from May 9 at Rosie and Rex Gift Shop on the High Street.

June 18

n THORNBURY’S FIRST OPENAIR OPERA: Opera in a Box perform Don Giovanni at Rockhampton Village Hall Field, 2.30pm. Tickets £20 from AAGThornbury@gmail.com.

REGULAR EVENTS

Monday

n SEVERN VALE FLOWER CLUB meets on the second Monday in the month at 2pm in St Mary's Hall in Eastbury Close, Thornbury, for classes, demonstrations and competitions. For more information contact Sally on ssjjtaylor@hotmail. co.uk or Hazel on 01454 885213.

Tuesday

n THORNBURY ART CLUB hosts live talks and demonstrations by established artists on the fourth Tuesday of the month at St Mary's Church Hall, 7.30pm. Non-members welcome: £5 entry. For more information call Mary Drown on 01454 414433 or email mary.drown@ blueyonder.co.uk.

n CITIZENS ADVICE South Gloucestershire sessions at Thorn-

bury Town Hall Tuesday 10amnoon. No appointment needed. n JUST SEW IT SEWING CLUB, every Tuesday 6.30-9.30pm at the Chantry Community and Arts Centre Castle Street, Thornbury. Come along and sew with others bring your sewing machine & materials/ pattern. Call Carrie 07753 236095.

n THORNBURY MEMORY CAFE is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month (except August) from 10.15am until 11.45am. Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Thornbury. For information contact Sue Rowley on 01454 412941 or Louise Wright on 01454 260371.

n SUNBEAMS TODDLER GROUP, 1.30-3pm every Tuesday in term time, Thornbury Methodist Church Hall (off Castle Court). All families welcome, no need to book, £2 per family includes snack and drink.

Wednesday

n BRISTOL SCRABBLE CLUB meets every Wednesday evening at 7pm until 10pm at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcome- first visit free so come along and give us a try. Contact Sheila on 01179570792 or 07435316458 or email shinett@ blueyonder.co.uk

Thursday

n THORNBURY GOOD AFTERNOON CHOIR, Thornbury URC, Chapel Street, 1-3pm. For info visit www.goodafternoonchoir.org, email gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk or call 01761 472468.

n BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR are recruiting new members. 7pm - 9.15pm, St Andrew's Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton, BS34 7PS. A varied repertoire, no audition. No need to read music - our regular practices will get you in shape to sing at our regular concerts and enjoy the social vibe. www.bristolmvc.org.uk email secretary@bristolmvc.org. uk Telephone 07764447699.

Friday

n HAVEN MEMORY CAFE, Thornbury United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, first and third Fridays of the month from 10.1511.45am. More details from Stuart Hill on 07913 241437 or Sue Walton 07794 370903.

Saturday

n THORNBURY PARKRUN, 9am, Mundy Playing Fields. Free.

Sunday

n THORNBURY ROYAL BRITISH LEGION branch meeting, last Sunday of the month at the Black Horse, Gillingstool, Thornbury, noon.

Historic England ignored High Street

AS the person who started the public awareness of work on Thornbury High Street, I should be permitted to respond to the latest article (Voice, April).

At the start of the covid pandemic South Gloucestershire Council hurriedly brought in restrictions without giving the correct notice and imposing restrictions that were, in many residents' opinion, not necessary.

When pointed out by myself and members of the town council, the replies received were, and I quote: "We will do as we please."

Following three public meetings I called using the town council’s constitution, held for all to discuss the closure and what could be done, a residents' association was formed.

Because of my own age and physical condition I had to step back from active participation.

This did not mean that I had given up. I continued my communication with SGC.

As a retired police officer I queried many aspects of the proposal, including the ‘flower planters’, which I was convinced were illegal.

Another matter I challenged was that SGC had “consulted “on the changes but they said, on being asked, that they did not keep records of whom they had consulted.

One thing that hurts is that Historic England seems not to be interested in the damage being done to the conservation of Thornbury High Street.

I could go on about why my opinion and that of others should be considered, but I can’t see any positive results.

Clive Washbourne

Scouts need you

IS your son or daughter a member or potential member of 1st Thornbury Scout Group? Maybe you were involved as a Beaver, Cub or Scout when you were younger?

The group has been delivering adventure, challenges and fun to Thornbury youngsters for over a hundred years, and to make sure we can carry on doing this, we need a regular flow of adult volunteers.

We are currently looking for a few more people to volunteer as uniformed or nonuniformed leaders to ensure that all our six sections - two Beaver colonies, two Cub packs and two Scout troops - can continue to flourish.

All sections are open to both boys and girls, and the children of leaders can bypass the waiting list.

As a uniformed Leader or non-uniformed Section Assistant, you will be making a positive difference to the lives of young people and

supporting them in their personal development. You will learn new skills, try different activities, make new friends and most of all have lots of fun.

If you feel you would like to get involved, please contact me on 01454 412440 or email gsl1tsg@gmail.com.

Rob Mills Group Scout Leader

Calling old Ridings pupils

CALLING former Ridings High School pupils who are about to turn 60!

If you started at the school in Winterbourne in September 1975 and are reaching the big 60 in the coming school year, we'd like to hear from you, along with teachers who taught there during the same years.

We are holding a reunion in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on September 2, and we currently have 140 people registered. It would be great to fill it!

If you would like to attend or are still in contact with anyone else from school who would, get in touch with us at ridingsreunion@ gmail.com.

Jane Cooke (née Wise)

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

James Scrimshaw of CUR A CLINIC AL explains how new technologies are providing ef fec tive answers to people’s pain and suf fering

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

MBST : Arthritic Low Back Pain

MBST Cell regeneration: What is MBST?

James Scrimshaw of CUR A CLINIC AL explains how new technologies are providing ef fec tive answers to people’s pain and suf fering

Construction of MRI and MBST devices

MBST Cell regeneration: What is MBST?

magnets

MBST uses exactly the same technology as MRI scanning, just without the detector coils and imaging software. MBST stands for Molecular Biophysical Stimulation. It was discovered by a German doctor who noticed that some of his MRI patients had reduced symptoms following their MRI scans. He then assembled a team of biologists and physicists to research these positive effects at a cellular level. Cells that had not functioned properly due to damage , were stimulated in such a way by the energy transfer that they could again fulfil their original tasks.

It does this at cell level in a number of ways:

- Optimising cell oxygen levels

MBST uses exactly the same technology as MRI scanning, just without the detector coils and imaging software. MBST stands for Molecular Biophysical Stimulation. It was discovered by a German doctor who noticed that some of his MRI patients had reduced symptoms following their MRI scans. He then assembled a team of biologists and physicists to research these positive effects at a cellular level. Cells that had not functioned properly due to damage , were stimulated in such a way by the energy transfer that they could again fulfil their original tasks.

- Improving Cell energy production

- Optimising intercellular signalling pathways

- Reducing inflammatory mediators

It does this at cell level in a number of ways:

- Readjusting cell circadian clock-leading to less cell death and cell reproduction.

- Optimising cell oxygen levels

Detector coils

- Improving Cell energy production

- Optimising intercellular signalling pathways

I’ve also just discharged Kate 5 months following treatment for her arthritic knees (she’d already had a half knee replaced). She’s now pain free… I anticipate these results will last a number of years.

I’ve also just discharged Kate 5 months following treatment for her arthritic knees (she’d already had a half knee replaced). She’s now pain free… I anticipate these results will last a number of years.

- Reducing inflammatory mediators

- Readjusting cell circadian clock-leading to less cell death and cell reproduction.

therapy.

This translates to you and I as a healing process in the tissue the energy is applied to which leads to a reduction in pain and an increase in the natural mobility and lifestyle of the patient without any need of invasive

Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results.

Obviously there are limitations of the effects relating to a number of factors such as severity and complexity of a patient’s case, however the technology is constantly being improved and we’re getting better at selecting the right patients and conditions in order to get higher success rates and better overall results.

now in patients with varying really remarkable.

he now runs, plays racket ball and golf without any pain and that’s without his braces. He’s recently done a course on his severe arthritic neck and after 3-4 months has significantly less neck pain and improved mobility. Over the next 6 months I expect his condition to reach over 90% improvement.

Rob (above) is a great example of how MBST heals cartilage in a moderate to severe arthritic knee. 15 months after his MBST therapy he now runs, plays racket ball and golf without any pain and that’s without his braces. He’s recently done a course on his severe arthritic neck and after 3-4 months has significantly less neck pain and improved mobility. Over the next 6 months I expect his condition to reach over 90% improvement.

As you can tell from the picture, I enjoy looking after Shaamil. He’s a lovely guy who was suffering with severe back pain for 5 years. Physio, chiro and osteopathy only gave short term relief because he had disc damage with vertebral end plate irregularity. (bone damage) He’d heard some good stories about MBST so we treated his spinal discs and bone using magnetic resonance therapy (MRT). Almost immediately, his pain calmed to a very low level and daily activities that used to cause him flare ups became pain free. To date, he is in a much better place because MBST stimulates healing of the damaged tissues at the cellular level. Thanks for the testimony Shaamil!!

n LOCAL MP

Pub landlords' Westminster visit to boost jobs

THE latest employment figures published by the Office for National Statistics have shown that, in Thornbury and Yate, we are outperforming most areas across the country.

In our area, just 1.7% of people aged 16-64 are currently receiving out-of-work financial support, and youth unemployment is over 60% lower than the national average.

We are benefiting from growing business confidence and investment, whilst the Government have made it a priority to help get people back into work, and to help businesses thrive.

We are working hard to deliver on the Government’s priorities to halve inflation, grow the economy and reduce debt,

so we can create better-paid jobs and opportunities across the United Kingdom, guaranteeing a better future for the next generation.

As the local MP, supporting jobs and the local economy is a vital part of my positive plan for the community, and so it is particularly pleasing that these new figures show that we are performing so much better than most areas across the South West. This follows a strong record of action to grow the local economy and increase jobs.

I have been holding regular jobs fairs, including a disability jobs fair, helping residents to find the right job for them.

Since first being elected as our local MP, I have held these jobs fairs in Thornbury and Yate,

helping local people get back into work or pursue a new career. Recently pub landlords from across Thornbury, Yate, Chipping Sodbury, Frampton Cotterell and Westerleigh came to Parliament so we could make the case to the Business Minister about the next set of steps the Government should take to support businesses in our community.

I also hosted my ninth jobs fair in Chipping Sodbury last year, which was our most successful yet.

There are now more people with the security of a job in South Gloucestershire, and we continue to rank as one of the lowest areas for unemployment anywhere in the country.

These latest statistics confirm that the plan for jobs is

bringing economic security to millions of workers, more trade for businesses, and greater prosperity throughout the country.

We cannot stop now, if we are to achieve our ambition of recovering from the pandemic and dealing with the effects of Putin’s war in Ukraine in the strongest way possible.

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

Maria,

The only funeral director in the UK creating a 100 acre nature reserve complete with its own chapel and reception rooms. Just

Cribbs Causeway.

as a brief service at a crematorium. Burial or ashes internment. Complete burial service from £1,495.

A TENDON is a fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. Its main role is to transmit forces from the muscle to the bone and absorb external forces to prevent injury to the muscle. Achilles tendinopathy is an injury to the band of tissue (tendon) that connects the muscles in your lower leg to your heel bone.

Despite being the largest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon is one of the most commonly injured tendons,

Achilles tendon injuries

especially in athletes who are involved in running and jumping sports.

Achilles tendinopathy is a painful overuse injury that affects an athlete’s ability to be physically active, causing a combination of pain, swelling and impaired performance.

During the early stages of the injury, you might be able to continue with regular activities and sports, but as it progresses your ability to be physically active is progressively impaired.

Repetitive overloading of the Achilles tendon and training errors, such as rapidly increasing training intensity or duration, are reported to be contributing factors in up to 80% of those who develop Achilles tendinopathy.

The pain associated with Achilles tendinopathy typically begins as a mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel after running or other sporting activity. Episodes of more severe pain may occur after prolonged running, stair

climbing, jumping or sprinting. Some other common symptoms include:

• Pain in your heel, which feels worse when you put pressure on it or have been active.

• Tendon stiffness, often worse first thing in the morning or if you’ve been resting for a while

• Swelling at the back of your ankle

*Tenderness when you touch your tendon

• A grating noise or creaking feeling when you move your ankle

A number of factors may increase your risk of the injury, including:

*Gender - Achilles tendinopathy occurs most commonly in men

• Age - the structure of the Achilles tendon weakens with age

• Physical factors, including a naturally flat arch in your foot, increased BMI and tight calf muscles

• Training choices - running in worn out trainers or incorrect footwear, on hilly or uneven terrain, or in cold weather

Control of inflammation is

recommended in the early phase of Achilles tendon injury, first by using ice packs and decreasing the intensity, frequency, and duration of the activity that caused the injury.

During an initial consultation at the clinic you would be asked to perform a combination of exercises to provoke tendon pain during tendon loading activity, such hopping.

Your practitioner will also look at any training errors, decreases in flexibility, and any muscle weakness in order to formulate a treatment plan for you.

Eccentric loading and stretching exercises will normally be given to you in order to increase the tensile strength of the tendon, reduce pain and regain function.

If you are suffering with Achilles pain and would like any help or advice from our physiotherapists or sports injury therapists, please contact our reception team on 01454 838366 or book online at www.thethornburyclinic.co.uk.

Erica Bonnici Mallia is a senior physiotherapist at the Thornbury Clinic.

Perfection for Ladies

THE senior teams at Thornbury rugby club had varying levels of success in the closing weeks of the season.

The First XV suffered a bizarre series of injuries, which decimated the squad for the last few league matches of the season.

As a consequence, Thorns lost three of their last four games but finished third in the Regional 2 Tribute Severn League table at the end.

There was disappointment in the final position, and sadness that the great Jak Evans hung up his boots after being a magnificent player for over a decade.

The Second XV had a fine season and only lost once.

However it is the Ladies team that take the plaudits, for winning their league with a 100% record, having won every game.

The Colts were runner-up in their GRFU league. A young side, they did very well and played some outstanding rugby.

The club also suffered from a chaotic end-of-season cup competition, which could have been run better by the authorities and saw Thornbury, and others, ending up with two games on the same day.

The club can now look forward to a couple of months off before pre-season training starts in July.

Dave Fox

Hockey 1sts win 2nd promotion

THORNBURY Hockey Club's ladies 1st team have ended their league season unbeaten, and promoted for the second year running.

Their final game against Hanham on April 1 resulted in a 6-0 win, to take the seasons goals-for total to 140.

Coz Deas and Connie Talbot each scored twice, with Esther Jenkinson and captain Jo Deas scoring the other goals.

The team will now be promoted for the second successive season, the only difference being that they are promoted as division champions.

The newly-formed men’s side ended their season on the same day with a 3-3 draw at North Somerset 3rds, with Tiger SherredIsles, David Anderson and Paul Hibberd the scorers.

Thornbury Ladies will celebrate 60 years in two years' time, so the development of the club's under-14 side will be paramount to its continued success.

The young team, referred to as the Harriers, includes a number of girls who were new to hockey.

The season ended with a convincing 13-3 victory against Cirencester.

The team have been supported throughout the season by Alice Atkinson, Esther Jenkinson and Lottie Webster, who have helped with both coaching and umpiring.

Goals in the final match were scored by Beth Eddis, Emily Board and Rhada Godpole, with both Alice and Esther also getting on the scoresheet.

The team had a strong back three in Rowan Bennett, Zoe Ashfield and Beth Hunt, while Matty Evans contributed to the build-up in a number of the goals and Evie Blackham, Amelia Fitzgerald and Izzi Ormond made numerous tackles to deny the opposition.

There were also useful contributions to the team’s performance from Amalie Hopkins, Daisy Lambert-Mardon, Indigo NutbrownHughes, Jenny and Erin Richards and Niamh Robinson.

The future looks bright, should the players continue to develop at the club.

Thornbury will take part in the summer league organised by South Gloucestershire Hockey Club at Bradley Stoke School, while the men’s team will play in a Bristol league.

Their home games will be at Castle School.

Thornbury's mixed league will commence later in the summer.

The club's presentation evening will be at Thornbury Rugby Club on May 20.

David Parry-Jones

Thornbury RFC's Ladies team captain Laura Panting is chaired off the field following the win over Hardwicke & Quedgeley that saw them crowned champions. Picture: Dave Fox.

Thorns secure survival in final match

A COMFORTABLE final-game victory at Bradford Town ensured Thornbury Town’s safety in the Hellenic Premier division.

After a run of just one point from six games had left Thorns looking over their shoulders, they knew that a win at Bradford, who have since been relegated themselves, would ensure another season at Step 5 of the National League System.

An early goal from Joe Guest settled any nerves in the Thornbury side and then Harvey Pritchard doubled the lead on the stroke of half-time. The home side created some chances, especially from set pieces, but Town’s defence held firm. A Harry Brock header from Luke Franklin’s free-kick wrapped up the scoring and a comfortable 3-0 win for Thorns.

Thornbury started the season with just one point from their opening 10 games, but great team spirit and progress since saw them rally to stay in the

league in what was just their second full season at this level of football.

Meanwhile the Reserves have maintained their push for promotion and, hopefully, the League title.

After only one fixture in March due to postponements,

games are coming thick and fast. A 4-4 draw with promotion rivals Patchway Town Reserves was followed by a 4-1 win away at Bristol Barcelona.

The goals kept coming in the next away game at Totterdown United, where a Harrison Young hat-trick and goals from Stan

Wyatt, James Cooke and Ollie Wilson gave them a comfortable 6-1 win.

The next home game saw the Reserves ease to another three points when they enjoyed a comfortable 8-1 victory over a game Chipping Sodbury A team.

That win keeps Thorns Reserves in fourth position but with games in hand on the teams above them, promotion and the league title are very much in their own hands.

The A team have completed their season with a couple of defeats that will see them finish mid-table.

Theirs has been a stop-start season, where injuries and unavailability have played their part.

However, having been promoted the previous season, the club is pleased with the progress that has been made, as the team looks to build for next season.

Malcolm Carr

Luke Franklin on the ball for Thornbury, with Zac Meadows to his left and Rhys Hodgson in the background, in the club's final game of the season at Bradford Town. Picture: Mike Evans.

Advice service on the move

THORNBURY'S Citizens Advice sessions are being moved, after the service won new financial backing from the town council. Sessions have previously been held at Turnberrie's Community Centre but have now moved to Thornbury Town Hall, where they are

being held on Tuesdays from 10am to noon.

The town council funding has safeguarded the town's Citizens Advice sessions for the next three years, the charity said.

It comes as Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire has seen a 14% increase in people coming for help with cost-of-livingrelated problems, as more people are facing hardship.

The charity helped 4,778 people last year with 22,493 issues, saving them a combined total of £4.4 million through its financial advicethe equivalent of £920 for each person helped. People who cannot make it to the drop-in

sessions can find free, independent, impartial and confidential advice from Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire by calling 0808 278 7947 or visiting the website at www.southgloscab. org.uk, where there are more details about times and locations of other sessions.

The charity is looking for donations to support its work - they can be made online at bit.ly/3kG7HyB.

Last year a 35% cut in funding for advice services in South Gloucestershire led to some Citizens Advice offices closing. But town councils have helped plug the gap, and a new service is also opening in Emersons Green.

RUBBISH CLEARANCE