Thornbury Voice November 2022

Council faces tough financial choices

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

COUNCIL is working to address a potential budget gap of £29.3 million next year (2023/24) as the serious financial situation affecting all local authorities intensifies. The council published its draft budget last month.

Global events, rising inflation and continuingly increasing de mand for services mean costs are rising at an unprecedented rate.

The council’s financial position has changed in a very short space of time, similar to many other local authorities across the country.

Rising costs

The council has through contract negotiations saved money, such as a fixed price energy contract which will save £2 million, but this is due to end next spring. Increasing costs have put the council under growing financial pressure. Not only will energy prices rise for the council next spring, but the expect ed national pay offer for staff will increase the council’s spend by an extra £6.4 million each year.

Rapidly growing demand on services, including adult social care, means the cost of delivering existing support is likely to rise by £8.5 million every year. Additional ly, capital costs – for building roads, schools, and other one-off projects – have already risen significantly and may continue to grow if the costs of materials, for example, don’t return to more normal prices

Savings

The council is in a relatively good

starting position, with additional savings of £2.9 million identified this year and £23.6 million of savings already in the pipeline, although the unprecedented costs and other pressures means there is still the potential for a £29.3 million gap in the budget.

The council is now having to look for possible changes to the way it delivers some services and even whether or not it can contin ue to provide some services. Some changes may result in redundan cies for its staff. It is also looking at how it can raise income, including by increasing Council Tax. The council is prevented by law from raising Council Tax by more than 1.99 per cent without a local referendum. A one per cent rise in Council Tax would generate £1.6 million. The council is now working to identify new ways to increase income and reduce spending and the impact those steps might have. Proposals will be presented to its Cabinet in December.

Support for those in need

The council will prioritise support for people who need it most. There are two grant funds, Community Resilience Fund and Household Support Fund, available for those struggling financially. The council also continues to press for reform to special educational needs and disability support, and to fully fund the cost of care.

An urgent challenge

Cabinet member for Corporate Resources, Cllr Ben Burton, said: “By

View from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Toby Savage

WELCOME –We’re glad to team up again with The Voice, a wonderful local business, to bring you this special edition. This time we are focusing on the council’s finances. The global economic situation means that your council faces an unprecedented challenge. Along with other local authorities, we are seeing increasing demand for services, rapidly rising prices and reduced income. Our prudent financial management has put us in a position of relative strength. But, despite significant savings, we have an increased gap in our finances for 2023/24. This means we will need to make further savings and that will involve some tough decisions. No one wants to do this and I’m acutely aware this comes when people are finding it hard to manage. It’s very important to us that you have your say. You’ll find out more in this edition and how you can find support if you’re struggling with the cost of living. Read on too to learn about our schools’ fantastic performance, how to nominate a community hero, progress on a new park and many other stories.

the start of the 2023/24 financial year, we will have already delivered £102 million of annual savings by working tirelessly to focus our resources on delivering our council plan priorities.

“However, the current scale of challenge is too large and too urgent for us to be able to rely solely on this approach. We now need to find ways to cut services or change how they are delivered. We will do these in the least disruptive

and detrimental way possible to continue supporting those who need it most.”

The outcome of the Govern ment funding settlement expected later in the year could improve the financial outlook. After the council has received that updated information, it will publish detailed four-year budget proposals for further public comment.

The council will make final budget decisions in February

2023.  However, it first wants to hear from South Gloucestershire residents.

Have your say

We will be running two phases to this year’s consultation. The first phase starts in October and asks for your views on the council’s draft budget proposals.

The second phase will run from Tuesday 6 December and will ask for your views on

updated budget proposals which will consider up to date information on what funding will be available from central government and the options that we have for balancing the council’s budget.

As a local resident, it is important that you have a say in how we shape services in the future and our budget consultation is a key part of this.

View the budget at www.southglos.gov.uk/

budget and then send your comments:

• By email: consultation@southglos.gov.uk

• By completing an online survey or download from the council website: www.southglos.gov. uk/budget

• By writing to: Freepost RTXL-YJXJ-BXEX, South Gloucestershire Council, Corporate Research & Consultation Team, Council Offices, Badminton Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5AF

• By telephoning 01454 868009.

a vaccine if you’re eligible, is now. The UK Health Security Agency is expecting a double threat of low immunity and widely circulating flu and covid-19, creating an unpredictable winter and additional pressure on health services.

Free flu jabs are available to anyone over 50. Over 65s, pregnant wom en, people with certain health conditions or who work in some frontline jobs, can book now. You simply call your GP or book at a pharmacy. For covid jabs, first, second and booster vaccines are available at local clinics. At the time of writing this, autumn boosters are available to over 65s, pregnant women and anyone over 5 with an underlying health condition. Book with your GP or find a local walk-in clinic at bnssghealthiertogether. org.uk/covid

Nominate your community hero!

Struggling with costs?

Help is at hand

The current rising cost of living is impacting on us all. Prices are going up and energy bills are climbing fastest of all. But no one should be embar rassed to ask for help if you don’t have enough to afford essentials and pay your bills. There is extra government support and help available from local services.

Your council offers a wide range of support including emergency and long-term support, help with housing benefit, various financial support grants and council tax reduction schemes. It can also help provide food and activities for children in the school holidays. You can visit one of the council’s three One Stop Shops in person where someone will be on hand to answer questions, resolve problems and offer advice. Or you can find de tails of support along with links to trusted national and partner resources on the council’s website at southglos.gov.uk/costofliving

Keep healthy and happy this winter

Winter, and worries over finances, can take a toll on your personal health. Did you know that the council offers plenty of free health and wellbeing support? Provided by the council’s partner Southern Brooks, activities range from tea and chat to help you reach out and connect, through to workshops on building resilience. Find out more about how you can access these free activities and other health and wellbeing support at oneyou. southglos.gov.uk

To help yourself to have a healthy winter, make sure you and your family’s vaccines are up to date. The time to boost your protection with

Do you have a hero in your community? Know someone special who vol unteers? South Gloucestershire Council wants to hear from you about the volunteers who make a difference in your area, from litter picking groups, to the befriending volunteers who brighten people’s days. The Chair of the council, Cllr Sanjay Shambhu, is calling for nominations of people who have made a difference to be put forward for the Chair’s 2022-23 Commu nity Awards. You can nominate a person or a community group and it’s very easy to do. The deadline is Friday 18 November and all the information on the awards, including how to make a nomination, can be found on the council’s website at southglos.gov.uk/communityawards.

Inquiry wait

DEVELOPERS and opponents of plans for almost 600 new homes on the edge of Thornbury must now wait while an inspector weighs up evidence presented at a planning inquiry.

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Progress at school

A THORNBURY infant school has been given a 'good' rating by inspectors, after “significant turbulence” caused by the pandemic and several changes in its leadership.

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Two men arrested after Thornbury jeweller is robbed

POLICE have arrested two men after a Thornbury jewellery shop was robbed.

Detectives are calling on anyone who was in the High Street between 11am and midday on October 10 and saw anything suspicious to contact them.

The robbery took place at Foxhills Jewellers in the High Street shortly before 11.30am.

A police spokesperson said: "A man claiming to have a weapon threatened a shop worker and made off with jewellery.

"Two men were arrested on suspicion of robbery by Thames Valley Police on Monday afternoon."

The two men were later released on bail. They had not been charged as the Voice went to press.

The spokesperson added: "Investigations into the incident continue.

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"If you were in the High Street between 11am and midday on Monday, witnessed the incident and have not yet spoken with officers, or if you have any other information which could help, please call."

People with information should 101 and give the crime reference number 5222 243 912.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/giveinformation.

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'Other opportunities' as Oldbury loses fusion bid

From page 3

The Western Gateway Partnership - made up of councils, industry and academic institutions - insists the decision is “not the end of the road” for the site, and said the UK Atomic Energy Authority had told them the Severn Edge site would be "utilised for other important projects in the future".

At a cabinet meeting after the decision was announced, South Gloucestershire Council leader Toby Savage said: “It was disappointing that we weren’t successful in that national bidding competition for fusion.

"What we’re optimistic about is that since that competition first started, there are a great many other potential opportunities that have become apparent within that time, as technology and industry have moved on."

Council papers gave further details about how nuclear experts suggested the Severn Edge site could be used for other important projects.

Cllr Savage said: "We have Rolls-Royce as one of our major local employers, who are promoting their SMR (small modular reactor) programme, as well as various other technological innovations from other companies, not just within this country but globally.

“So there are those other opportunities that we need to look very closely at, to make sure that we capture the momentum that has built across the Western Gateway region over the months since its creation and since we’ve been promoting our fusion bid, to ensure that we’re at the forefront of innovation in driving towards net zero.”

The decision that the fusion bid would go to West Burton in Nottinghamshire was announced by Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg at October's Conservative Party conference. It is on land previously used as an ash disposal site for a coal-fired power station, which is due to shut down next year.

The chosen site was not on the original shortlist of five for the UKAEA's experimental plant but was added earlier this year at the expense of another Nottinghamshire power station

at Ratcliffe-on-Soar.

Council officers from South Gloucestershire are expected to receive a “detailed debrief” from the energy authority about the Severn Edge site.

According to council papers, the Atomic Energy Authority said Severn Edge “would likely be an outstanding candidate for a wide range of developments” and were sure that “this will result in the Severn Edge site being utilised for other important projects in the future”.

Small modular reactors, according to Rolls-Royce, are cheaper nuclear fission generators, which are easier to build than traditional nuclear power plants. They also take up one tenth the size of a conventional nuclear plant, and can be built in factories.

Western Gateway Partnership chair Katherine Bennett said she was "reassured that this is not the end of discussions with UKAEA about a role for the Western Gateway and Severn Edge in supporting fusion and related technology".

She said: "I am very proud of the work our partners have done as part of the Severn Edge team. We have enormously raised the profile of the area, the incredible strengths and expertise of our communities and built a compelling case for the need to invest.

"This is by no means the end of the road for this project; I look forward to where Severn Edge goes next.”

The partnership has called for more investment to be made in the region's green energy infrastructure to "decarbonise

current energy supply" in order to reach 'Net Zero' targets.

A study for the partnership, published days after the STEP project decision was made, "lays bare the gap between the current energy system demands and the green energy infrastructure currently under construction,

whilst also suggesting that the area could produce enough green energy in the future to boost supply across the country".

Presenting the report at a Western Gateway fringe event at the Conservative Party conference, Bristol University pro vice-chancellor of research and enterprise, Professor Phil Taylor, said: “The UK has legally binding greenhouse gas reduction targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

"By coming together as a wider partnership, the Western Gateway is well positioned to work strategically with the wide range of energy systems stakeholders necessary to reach these goals. I hope this report will help public authorities, governments, businesses, investors and researchers to plan and develop a greener future."

Meeting report by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Oldbury nuclear power station is being decommissioned but the site could still be used to generate atomic energy in the future.

Calls for change as bus cutbacks bite

CALLS are being made for bus services to be brought under the full control of the region's Metro Mayor and councils after the latest round of cuts.

Commercial operator First axed Thornbury's T2 service to Bristol via Cribbs Causeway at the end of April. Further timetable changes in October led to more services in South Gloucestershire being cut back. The route of the T1 was changed so it now terminates at Bristol Bus Station instead of the Centre.

First says it has made changes to improve reliability as it deals with a chronic driver shortage and the impact of the pandemic on passenger numbers.

Campaign group the West of England Shared Transport and Active Travel Network (WESTACT) has written an open letter calling on the West of England Combined Authority Metro Mayor Dan Norris and the leaders of all councils in the area to suspend the deregulated bus market and provide a franchised bus service, under contract through WECA.

Under the present system, WECA has responsibility for transport planning but has no powers to force bus operators to operate a

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given route at a given time.

It is consulted on changes to timetables but the only way of maintaining services First decides are not commercially viable is to subsidise them.

WESTACT is urging as many people as possible to sign its open letter calling for the current system to be replaced with franchising, where WECA would issue contracts for companies to operate services it would specify.

The group said: "The deregulated market is always at odds with the bus services that many in our communities need to get to work, school, shops, and health centres.

"Residents want and demand an overhaul of this broken bus system."

The letter can be found at actionnetwork. org/forms/franchise-weca-bus-services-now.

A political row over the cuts flared at South Gloucestershire Council's meeting on October 12, with the Conservatives claiming an "outrageous" £8 million spent on WECA's new offices could have been used to save bus routes.

Cabinet member for regeneration, environment and strategic infrastructure Steve Reade said the combined authority’s

finances "are not being used effectively for local people".

He said Mr Norris had blamed the bus cuts on a lack of government funding despite the combined authority having “more money than ever” for transport and that £8m was “flying out of the door” on “unnecessary” new offices for Weca.

Labour blamed the Government, privatisation and driver shortages for the cuts, while the Liberal Democrats accused the Tories of "wasting time trying to deflect attention from their own part in the bus cuts debacle".

Lib Dem group leader Claire Young said: "Local people will not be fooled into putting all the blame on one decision about office location.

“They can see the huge issues facing our country, which the Government is doing nothing to tackle."

Mr Norris has been campaigning to recruit more bus drivers, saying: "Sorting the driver shortage is a vital step to fix the bus network."

Letters: Page 29

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Town hall offers warmth in winter

THORNBURY Town Hall will open its doors to offer somewhere warm for people struggling with heating bills this winter.

town council has announced that it will be offering a Warm Space facility at the town hall for people aged over 60 to meet up, socialise, keep warm and find support with the cost-of-living crisis.

Warm Space, equipped with seating, a TV and games, was set to open on October 31.

People who want to use it can access it via the Over 60s Tea Room at the side of the Town Hall building, and the opening hours will be the same as the tea rooms: 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.

A lift is available to take visitors with mobility issues to the first floor, where the Warm Space is located.

Announcing the project, the town council said: "In light of the hugely increased energy costs households are facing, the Warm Space will provide a safe, welcoming and warm space where those over 60 years of age may come to sit during the day.

"The Exhibition Room on the first floor has been repurposed into our Warm Space, complete with comfortable seating.

"There is a television and DVD player, and the council is licensed to enable the playing of films – possibly even some Christmas classics!

"There are board games, playing cards and some books kindly donated by the Thornbury Lions book shop.

"Due to the risk of spillages, anybody wishing to enjoy a cup of tea from the Over 60s Tea Room will need to return to the Tea Room downstairs for this, rather than carrying up to the Warm Space.

"Visitors to the Warm Space, however, will be welcome to bring their own food and drink to enjoy in the room.

"Our thanks go out to the kind people who donated items to equip the Warm Space."

Thornbury Town Council is one of a number across the region to set up places where people facing a choice of whether to heat or eat can spend some time, with a similar project underway in Yate and Bristol City Council organising a programme called Welcoming Spaces.

South Gloucestershire Council is planning a similar scheme.

A spokesperson said: “In recognition of the difficult financial decisions facing some of our residents due to the cost-of-living pressures being felt this winter, we are looking to introduce a scheme where there are places people can come to keep warm if they are struggling with rises in energy prices.

"The details are still being considered and we'll share further information as soon as we can."

Thornbury mayor Chris Davies in the Thornbury Town Council

School is moving forward, says inspector

THORNBURY

school has been given a 'good' rating

after “significant

caused by the

and several changes in its leadership.

Education watchdog Ofsted visited Crossways Infant School, in Knapp Road, in the summer.

The inspector’s report praised acting head Paul Medlicott, saying: “The head teacher and his leadership team have stabilised the school and secured strong staff morale during a particularly rocky time.

“Staff say that their workload is managed well.

"They feel respected and valued. However, leaders recognise that there is still work to do to improve some aspects of the school that have deteriorated since the previous inspection.”

Ofsted Inspector Tonwen Empson said the school’s rating following this year's short inspection had not changed since the previous inspection in 2017, but if a full inspection was

carried out the grade might not be as high.

He concluded that the school, which has 180 pupils aged from five to seven, should have a full inspection in one or two years' time, instead of an initial

inspection in four years.

The inspector said the school has introduced a new curriculum and leaders’ roles have been reorganised.

He said: "Current leaders have ensured that the school continues to move forward, for example by introducing a new curriculum. However, leaders are honest and accurate in their evaluation that there are some weaknesses and inconsistencies in the quality of education

"Leaders and staff set and demonstrate high expectations, and pupils respond well to this. They behave well in lessons and around the school. Staff are a united, close and caring team who enjoy working at the school."

The inspector praised the school's teaching of its youngest pupils, saying: "Children in the Reception classes get off

to a flying start. The emphasis is on stories, and these lead to meaningful learning experiences for children."

He said pupils felt "safe and secure" and knew who to talk to if they had concerns, but said there was "inconsistency" in implementing the curriculum, and support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities varied in quality.

Mr Medlicott took over as acting head after the previous head left last year. He is also acting head at Crossways Junior School. A new federation head teacher, Jo Geoghegan, started in September.

Mr Medlicott said: “As a school we are very pleased with the outcome from our recent Ofsted.

"The report really recognises the fantastic children we have at Crossways Infants, with Ofsted describing them as ‘polite, confident and proud of their school’.

“Ofsted also saw our EYFS children getting off to ‘a flying start’ as they begin their journey at Crossways. This really sums us up as a school and we love to see the children engaged and enjoying their learning!

“The report also highlights where we have recently progressed, noting the strong staff morale as ‘a united, close and caring team who enjoy working at the school’.

"This sets us up in a brilliant position to be able to continue our ongoing development through this year and moving forward under the direction of our new Federation Headteacher, Jo Geoghegan."

Crossways Infant School pupils with new federation head Jo Geoghegan and acting head Paul Medlicott

Low-key launch for Christmas lights

THORNBURY High Street will be lit by festive lights again this Christmas – but organisers say they are “gutted” there won’t be a big switch-on event for the third year running.

Before the pandemic, the switch-on was an evening event with a funfair and stalls, which attracted crowds to the town centre, but a lack of volunteers means a low-key switch-on this year.

Thornbury Christmas Lights Association says plans to make permanent changes to the High Street, including gates and planters, will pose extra practical considerations if a full switch-on event were to be held in future years.

Emma Jane Higgins, from the association, said a future mass event would need careful consideration about where to position attractions, and how to provide emergency access.

She said: "We aren’t specifically concerned about the works as an association but naturally, as members of the community, we want what is best and allows Thornbury to thrive as we all know that it can.

"A full switch-on event will not be happening this year, due to the lack of volunteers, however this has been compounded by a lack of information from the council of their plans for the High Street.

“However, we have faced many adversities over our years, so we will adapt.”

The controversial street works, introduced during lockdown in 2020, have faced opposition from traders and residents.

Thornbury Town and District Residents Association has been campaigning to have the street works removed.

Spokesman John Reynolds said they were concerned the street works would limit any future Christmas Lights switch-on event.

The Voice has asked South Gloucestershire Council to comment on the residents association's concerns.

The authority has previously said the changes to the High Street will boost trade and present a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly shopping area.

It says it is engaging with stakeholders locally. Work to make the changes permanent is due to be completed in 2023.

The volunteers of Thornbury Christmas Lights Association have been running the lighting display since 1991. It is funded by donations and grants.

Emma said : We have huge ambitions to return with a switch-on event in the future.

"It may not be the same event as we have been able to organise in the past - we would be able to still host the event, as mentioned before, it would just require a slightly different approach and perhaps a reduced scale. “

She said anyone who would like to donate their time, now or in the future, should email thornburychristmaslights@gmail.com or contact the group via its Facebook or Instagram pages.

The lights will be turned on at 7pm on Tuesday November 22.

Thornbury Christmas Lights Association volunteers

Inquiry hears pros and cons of 595-home development

A Planning Inspectorate appeal hearing into the scheme, which also includes a primary school, retail and community hub, allotments, parkland, footpaths and new roads with a bus link, started at the end of September at Turnberrie's Community Centre and was due to finish at the end of October.

At the opening day of the inquiry, barrister David Manley KC, for the developer, said: “The proposal is the outcome of extensive engagement with local planning authority officers and was the subject of an initial officer support at the very highest level.

is inevitable and has occurred in recent developments.”

He said the fact that the site was not within the town’s settlement boundary was “not an obstacle to development” partly because the council did not have a five-year housing land supply.

If permission is granted on appeal, the developer would be obliged to make several major contributions, including improvements to the M5 junction 14, £620,000 for a new nursery on the site and £4.2 million to build a primary school, as well as local road upgrades, including a bus link.

Barwood Development

South Gloucestershire Council failed to make a decision on the application within the legal time limit but later said it would have rejected the plans had the power still been in its hands.

Barwood argues consent should be granted by planning inspector Christina Downes.

“It is our case that such harms that do exist are outweighed by public benefits of the scheme.”

He said the harms included “less than substantial” harm to Thornbury Castle and St Mary’s church, both Grade I-listed, and the loss of agricultural land classed as “best and most versatile”.

Mr Manley said: “The simple fact is that if development is to occur around Thornbury which avoids greenbelt and areas subject to flooding constraint then development using some best and most versatile land

The case against

A CHRONIC lack of services and daily traffic jams in Thornbury would make life “completely miserable” for people moving into the proposed new housing estate, the inquiry was told.

The town has grown so fast that existing residents have felt “resentment” about the pressure being piled on GPs, roads and other facilities.

development for Thornbury

said: “From this town’s point of view, we have taken an enormous and quite rapid growth in housing.

“That means it’s really quite difficult to integrate and become a community and to stop that resentment from the old community

the changes that have happened and the pressures on services.

so many more new homes will just exacerbate the situation."

She said the experience for people on the town’s roads was “quite horrific” at peak times, adding: "We don’t have more employment in the town so everyone is trying to commute.”

Richard Taverner, who lives near the site, said: “Surrounding roads to the development are totally unsuitable for the amount of traffic.

“These roads are frankly dangerous – the junction of Butt Lane, Morton Way and Gloucester Road.

“It’s only a matter of time until there is a serious accident or even worse.”

Colin Gardner, of Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development (TRAPP’D), said: “We have counted 1,700

new houses given permission since 2011, which is an increase in the town of nearly one-third, almost entirely unplanned with next to no development in supporting infrastructure.

“What is needed is a call to halt this mad scramble to cash in land values, and to preserve what is left of our green spaces.”

The council says there is "no basis" for granting consent for the development, and a planning committee decision in January that the authority would have rejected the proposals was in line with officers' final recommendation.

Barrister Andrew Fraser-Urquhart KC, representing the local authority, told the hearing: “This development is sought within the area of an authority that has a good record of housing delivery.

“As against a three-year requirement of 3,578 units, the council has seen delivery of 4,755, and in those circumstances a very clear justification therefore needs to be advanced to allow development of an unallocated greenfield site in the open countryside."

Mr Fraser-Urquhart said the development’s benefits of housing, including 35 per cent affordable homes, ecological

improvements, new public space and boost to the local economy must be weighed against “very considerable disbenefits” of the scheme.

He said 800 homes were earmarked to be built north of Thornbury but Barwood’s application was not in this location and was in addition to it.

Government-appointed planning inspector Christina Downes will make the final decision following the inquiry, which was due to hear its final representations on October 28.

By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporting Service

Thornbury Orchard is the place to bee

VOLUNTEERS who manage Thornbury Orchard have won an award for their work encouraging bees and other pollinators at the site.

Work to create a 'bee bank' where ground-dwelling species can live, a wildflower meadow and nurture a thriving apple orchard has won the community project an inaugural Bee Bold Award from the West of England Combined Authority.

About 30 to 40 volunteers help out at the orchard throughout the year.

They took over management from South Gloucestershire Council, which owns the land off Gloucester Road, opposite the Anchor Inn, under a volunteer agreement in 2014.

Two years later the agreement was extended to include a grass area that the group planted as wildflower meadow, in partnership with charity Buglife and the council.

The Streamside community orchard includes old Gloucestershire apple varieties, including the Berkeley pippin, the Gloucester Royal and Arlingham Schoolboys.

The Morton Bridge meadow, which was seeded with wildflower varieties including cuckoo flowers, kidney vetch and alder buckthorn, has attracted pollinators including the orange tip butterfly and ivy bee.

John Mills, who leads the Thornbury Orchard group, said: "The bee bank is where they live, the meadow is like a restaurant where they get their food and they work for us in the orchard, pollinating trees.

"If you've got the pollinators,

the rest of the diversity tends to follow.

"The meadow plants draw in several insects which in turn draw in mice, cats and bats - if you've got bats, you know you're doing something right."

John has even found a leucospid wasp, which is not native to the UK - its journey to the orchard is a mystery but it is believed it may have arrived inside a container alongside an import.

The group has planted 70 trees as part of the Queen's Jubilee Canopy programme, and has been working to encourage more people to set up their own groups in other places.

Its work has also benefited the volunteers themselves.

John said: "During covid we found if anything the group was stronger because we were working outdoors, separate from each other, which was the recommended way of socialising at the time!"

Thornbury Orchard won the People for Nature Community

Organisation award, recognising its work to engage the community to create spaces for nature.

The award was presented by Metro Mayor Dan Norris at a mass planting event in October at Siston Common, near Kingswood.

The awards scheme is part of a wider package of measures Mr Norris has introduced to make

the West of England the "bee and pollinator capital of the UK".

He said: “Bees and pollinators are not just nice to have - they are absolutely essential to ensuring we can have the fresh fruit and veg we eat year-round and keeping our precious countryside and forests maintained and cared for.

"I hope these award winners inspire others to take action too, whether that be letting their gardens grow wild for longer periods in the year or throwing away those bee-harming pesticides."

The group's citation on WECA's website said: "The Bee Bold expert selection panel commended the approach as a great example of community members coming together and supporting pollinators, using wildflowers in conjunction with orchards, and considering both food and habitats throughout the year."

Eileen Mills and John Mills of Thornbury Orchard with South Gloucestershire Council biodiversity officer Sally Pattison, receiving their award from Metro Mayor Dan Norris

thornbury voice

Naomi's voice wows millions on TV

A BUSKER and singer songwriter from South Gloucestershire is aiming for the big time after making the final of ITV talent show The Voice UK.

Naomi Johnson made it through to the final of the Saturday night show, watched by more than six million viewers.

The 28-year-old professional singer and her family have been sworn to secrecy since the show was recorded in front of a live audience almost a year ago.

Proud dad Paul said family members took it in turn to go and support Naomi in the studio – including mum Michelle, sister Maria, brother Ollie and Naomi’s boyfriend Luke.

He said: "We are amazingly proud of how well Naomi has done. It is so hard for a singer to get noticed, so she has done so well to make the finals, out of 20,000 entrants.

"We were jumping for joy watching it on the TV; it’s seeing her reaction that really gets to us, as we know music is her life."

Naomi grew up in Yate and

went to Chipping Sodbury School, then studied music at Bath College before doing a degree in vocals and musicianship at the British Institute for Modern Music in Bristol.

She already makes a living as a professional singer, fronting her own band called Switch at weddings and corporate events.

Naomi said: "The Voice has been very exciting and a bit surreal. I thought I would have a go on the show, and then blinked and I was in the semi-finals. It makes my years of hard work worthwhile.”

Naomi did TV blind auditions – where the stars have to listen with their chairs facing away from the stage - in front of

celebrity judges Will.I.Am, Anne-Marie, Tom Jones and Olly Murs.

She said: "To say I was shocked is an understatement. If you watch it back I'm screaming and jumping for joy.

"At the start I was intimidated, until they turned around and once that was done, they were nice people with a lot of experience to support me.”

Naomi was on Will’s team, which meant coaching from the multi award-winning founder of Black Eyed Peas.

Naomi says she hopes appearing on the show will help boost her solo career – she writes and performs her own songs, and can regularly be seen busking on Bristol's Harbourside.

She said: "Busking is a good way to get practice. It toughens you up and gives you a chance to play our own songs. The dream would be to get a record label deal and record my music."

The final was due to be shown on ITV1 on October 29 at 8pm.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS

Singer Naomi Johnson with mum Michelle, brother Ollie, dad Paul and sister Maria

Firework displays help town's good causes

GOOD causes in Thornbury will benefit from two big firework displays taking place in the town on consecutive days.

The first to take place, on Friday November 4, is the Chantry annual fireworks party.

Held in its walled grounds, the "family focused event" will raise money towards renovation projects at the community and arts centre's historic home.

A new innovation for this year will see a selection of light up toys available for visitors to buy, with proceeds being split between the renovation fund and Crossways Schools Parent Teacher Association.

The event, which starts at 5.30pm ahead of the main display at 7pm, will also have home-cooked food for sale and a licensed bar.

Tickets for the event are only available in advance online, with no entry on the door.

They are available from www.thechantry. org.uk, priced at £4 for children, £6 for adults and £17 for a family of two adults and three children.

Only limited disabled parking will be available at the Chantry, and must be prebooked, with other visitors advised to park at the Castle Court or Rock Street car parks.

The following day is Bonfire Night itself,

when the Mundy Playing Fields will host the Thornbury Round Table display from 5.308.30pm.

Organisers have revealed more details about the good causes which benefit from the money raised at the display.

People's entry fees have helped to buy defibrillators mounted at the side of the Anchor Inn in Gloucester Road and Thornbury Co-Op.

Donations have also been made to Thornbury Orchard Group, to help fund its work (see page 13), to buy new litter picking

equipment for Litterbusters and to help fund the refurbishment of JIGSAW Thornbury's base.

Further awards have paid for a new tutor for Thornbury Swimming Club, developing a men's support group for charity PHASE Thornbury, new equipment for Panache Steel Band, support for Thornbury Carnival and funding for young kick-boxer Harvey Pollard to compete in a world championship competition.

The proceeds also fund the Round Table bouncy castle and popcorn machine used at local school fundraising events.

Local causes who would like to apply for help can contact the Round Table at thornbury@roundtable.org.uk.

Spokesperson Chris Bass said: "With the support of everyone that attends, we are confident that we can raise more for our local community than ever before."

Last year's event sold out and tickets are once again being sold in advance, online and at local shops Horders and News 4 U.

Tickets are available online via the Thornbury Round Table Fireworks Facebook page or by searching for Eventbrite Thornbury Fireworks.

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Men's Shed helps Ukraine refugees

THORNBURY Men's Shed has now provided its 40th renovated bike to Ukrainian refugees in the area.

The group based at Eastland Road has provided the bikes in return for just a donation to cover their costs, helping the town's Ukrainian guest families and their hosts.

Thornbury resident Lynn Shelley said: "The volunteers working in The Men's Shed deserve a huge pat on the back for their valuable contribution to the lives of our Ukrainian guests.

"With bus services being few and far between and no access to a car, these bikes are a lifeline to a group of people who can only get a job if they have a means of transport. Their bikes are an absolute necessity.

"The volunteers at The Men's Shed do something else, too. If you have garden tools with broken handles, a lamp that doesn't work or a sad looking clock with a tick but no tock, don't throw it away to be dumped in landfill - take it to the Men's Shed.

"They will mend it for you - again, for a small donation to cover any costs.

"This morning, I took a much loved piano lamp to them and within a few hours had a telephone call from them saying that they had fixed it. Try getting that level of service anywhere else!"

Anyone who would like to find out more about the Men's Shed or would like to join the team can call Bob Collins on 01454 414834 or email thornburymensshed@gmail.com.

Thornbury Round Table members with the defibrillator at the Anchor Inn

Thornbury's day of fun celebrates community

THORNBURY people, groups and businesses shared their skills and passions with each other in a community celebration.

Thousands of people attended multiple venues throughout the day of the Fun Palaces event in October.

Organised by charity JIGSAW Thornbury and South Gloucestershire Council's High Street team with support from the St Mary Centre, My Thornbury, the Swan pub, Thornbury Rotary and the Inner Wheel, there were a total of 25 fun, free activities happening across 10 locations around the High Street.

There were over 1,000 visitors to Thornbury Library, which hosted five different activities including Braille name badge making, rhyme time and read to therapy dog sessions, U3A family history research advice and meeting a Roman soldier from Thornbury and District Heritage Trust.

The St Mary Centre hosted a sparkle photo booth from Brain Tumour Support, glitter tattoos and stone painting from Krunch South West youth team and Thornbury

Participants in JIGSAW Thornbury's Fun Palaces event. Picture: Rich McD

Community Composting led a recycling challenge, while JIGSAW Thornbury’s young volunteers ran a community cafe and other activities.

People could try street dance, Halloween crafts and sporting activities including table cricket, table tennis, triathlon and running at pubs, church halls and Mundy Playing fields, where Thornbury Rotary had their Walkathon stand.

Thornbury mayor Chris Davies said: "It's great to see the community of Thornbury

coming together for the Thornbury Fun Palace event.

"A big thank you to JIGSAW Thornbury and South Gloucestershire Council Regeneration Team for organising such a fabulous fun, free event.”

JIGSAW Thornbury interim chief executive Hattie Clayton, who was part of the organising committee, said: "We are so proud of the part we played in bringing the community together.

"It was really exciting to see the event grow from last year with so many local people, groups, and businesses taking part in the event by sharing skills and hosting activities. A great opportunity too for us to raise awareness of the work we do with children and young people with additional needs and their families”

Council cabinet member for communities Rachael Hunt said: “There was a fantastic buzz in Thornbury on Saturday and a real sense of community spirit as people chatted and spent time together taking part in the huge range of activities on offer."

£10,000 boost will set up volunteer service

JIGSAW Thornbury has received £10,000 to set up a volunteer scheme and support a youth club it runs in partnership with Krunch South West.

The funding has come from the Sovereign #iwill Fund, which supports youth-focused organisations working in areas served by Sovereign Housing Association.

The funding will support two groups run by JIGSAW Thornbury, the Young Volunteers Service for children and young people with

additional needs, and their siblings, and the youth club run in partnership with Krunch South West.

The charity said the new volunteers service "empowers children and young people to build skills and confidence and give something back to JIGSAW Thornbury and their community".

The youth club is a more informal alternative to the young volunteer sessions.

JIGSAW Thornbury interim chief executive Hattie Clayton said: "We are very excited to

get started on our project, which will empower young people with additional needs or disabilities and their families to join in with social action through community events and fundraising.

"Young people have been the inspiration for the project, and it is packed with opportunities to develop skills and confidence, become leaders within their group, and make a difference for their community.

"We have recently launched our #JIGSAW10For10 community fundraising

challenge to celebrate our upcoming 10th birthday, so this fund has come at the perfect time to ensure young people play a lead role in the campaign."

The #iwill Fund is supported nationally by a £66 million joint investment from the National Lottery Community Fund and the government to support young people to access high quality social action opportunities, with Sovereign Housing Association providing match funding and awarding grants.

School praised for sustainable travel plan

THORNBURY'S Castle School has won a second award for its plans to encourage families to ditch the car for the school run.

The school in Park Road is the first secondary in South Gloucestershire to win silver Modeshift STARS (Sustainable Travel Accreditation and Recognition for Schools) accreditation, for promoting walking, scooting and cycling to school.

Each of the 13 schools involved in the scheme in the district develop a 'travel plan' using an online portal and find ways to encourage more pupils and staff to use sustainable methods of transport.

The silver award brings the school £3,000 of extra funding from the council to pay for facilities including cycle and scooter storage, lockers, seating, or parent waiting shelters.

The Castle School won a bronze award last year and to gain silver, also known as the 'Very Good Travel Plan' award, it has implemented a range of initiatives that have brought about a 9% drop in car usage and a 28% increase in numbers of

students using public transport.

Deputy head teacher Katherine Wilson said: "The Castle School is delighted and proud to receive the Modeshift STARS silver award in recognition of its excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable and active travel.

"The school has developed its travel plan since achieving the bronze award in 2021 with a dedicated team leading the school community, in conjunction with South Gloucestershire Council, encouraging healthy lifestyles and improving road safety and air quality in the local area, by

the promotion of active travel.

"We are passionate about sustainable travel which is becoming a real part of the culture at Castle School.

"This academic year we have a group of students who will be Active Travel Ambassadors creating their own campaign advocating for active travel to school."

This year's round of awards saw Natural Choice Nursery in Alveston become the first nursery to receive silver in the area.

The Ridge Junior School in Yate became one of just 66 schools across England to achieve a gold award, while Barley Close Community Primary School in Mangotsfield became the first in South Gloucestershire to reach the highest platinum level - one of just 51 schools across England to make it.

Council cabinet member for schools Erica Williams said: "I want to congratulate all schools across the area that have signed up for this initiative. There has been a fantastic effort by all involved to encourage safe and sustainable travel options to families."

School friends help lessons on radioactivity

CASTLE School Friends have helped the secondary school to inspire a new generation of nuclear scientists.

The parents and supporters' group received a £1,000 grant from Magnox, which is working on decommissioning nuclear sites including Berkeley and Oldbury, to fund the purchase of three new radioactive sources for the school science department.

They will be used to teach students about alpha, beta and gamma radiation, how it passes through different materials and how it is affected by magnetic fields.

Thornbury Rotary Club has donated £260, to buy a number of trophies for the school, which will be used to help reward student ‘houses’ who earn the most house points by exemplifying good values and community spirit during the school year.

Friends' chair Justin Warr said: “We are always so grateful to all our contributors and especially to Magnox and Thornbury Rotary Club for making a real difference to the staff and students.

"These kind gifts will make an immediate difference in the classroom and help contribute to education as well

as recognising those students displaying the right attitudes to learning and treating other people well."

The friends group is also donating funds for a second defibrillator for the school.

The new £660 defibrillator - which delivers a shock to restart the heart in people who have suffered a cardiac arrestwill be placed in the sports hall where it will be accessible to sports teams, supporters

and other members of the community attending sporting activities outside school hours.

It is being funded by money raised during the year from events including car boot sales and quiz evenings.

The friends group's next event is a family quiz evening, which will take place at the school on November 11 at 7.30pm.

Justin said: “Our quiz evenings have developed a bit of a reputation as a great night out.

"They’re very entertaining, whether you’re a quiz aficionado or just joining us for a bit of fun.

"It’s a brilliant way to make money for the school and we look forward to seeing lots of you there!"

People can enter teams of up to six people for eight rounds of questions, including a picture round. Tickets cost £5 per head and people do not need to have children at the school to come along. They are available from the main school reception or by sending a message to Castle School Friends by email at enquiries@ castleschoolfriends.org.

Castle School pupils and teachers celebrate their award with council cabinet member Erica Williams.

Science teacher Paul Turner conducts an experiment with the new radioactive sources

Tour de Bristol returns

Health strikes on the way

THE boss of Bristol's specialist hospitals says NHS trusts are preparing for a “wave of strikes” this winter.

Eugene Yafele, the chief executive of University Hospitals Bristol and Weston says there is a “growing appetite for industrial action” among staff.

Trade unions representing staff in the organisation, will be balloting their members for industrial action.

Hundreds of cyclists are expected to take to the

for Bristol's biggest bike ride, the Tour de Bristol.

This event challenges

difficult of times.

St

Cyclists of all abilities are catered for with routes covering distances of 40km, 65km and 100km. Participants set off from the Centre for Sport at UWE and head into the South Gloucestershire countryside, travelling through villages including Olveston and Littleton-upon-Severn as well as Thornbury itself.

The 65km route stretches further into Gloucestershire towards Berkeley and, for racers who like an endurance challenge, the 100km route passes through Wotton-under-Edge, touching the outskirts of the Cotswolds.

The entry fee helps to cover the cost of putting on the event, so the sponsorship you raise, and donations made will go towards supporting Hospice patients and families across Bristol.

Registration for the event, which will take place on April 15 next year, opens on November 1.

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

Mr Yafele told the trust's October board meeting: "This is something that our colleagues are going to be doing reluctantly, should they sign up for it, but still gives us cause for concern because of the difficult nature of the strike action and the fact that you can’t plan for one isolated incident. It might be a wave of strikes, which makes it even more challenging.”

The trust's 'director of people', Emma Wood, said managers were looking how they could support staff with financial problems but added: "We are limited in terms of national terms and conditions around pay. But there are some other things we can do."

Ideas currently being looked at include locating food banks inside NHS libraries and providing discounted meals or free soup and rolls for staff at workplaces.

More than 15,000 ambulance workers across 11 trusts in England and Wales, including South West Ambulance Service, started voting on strike action on October 24.

The ballot, which closes on November 29, is in response to an imposed 4% pay award and "unsafe staffing levels" across the service.

GMB Acting National Secretary Rachel Harrison said: "Ambulance workers don’t do this lightly - and this would be the biggest ambulance strike for 30 years.

"But more than ten years of pay cuts, plus the cost-of-living crisis, means workers can’t make ends meet. They are desperate."

John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporting Service

A fundraising cycle team at the Tour De Bristol finish

BANG! Pop! Screeeeech, Pant!

Hello, I’m Angel, First Dog of the West of England, and I write today to formally protest about your human Bonfire Night celebrations with those loud boom-boom things that terrify me and my fellow canine pals. Bad humans! Bad!

I’m sorry. I don’t actually think you’re bad. I think you’re the best, promise. Let’s go for a walk. Please can we go for a walk. Anyway, let’s cut to the chase. What, did someone say chase?!

Sorry, back again. The point is that for you hoo-mans, Bonfire Night may well be a time to ‘ooh’ and ‘aww’ over impressive displays and pretty colours exploding in the night sky. But un expected loud noises tend to have the opposite effect on us pets, and can leave owners pretty frazzled too - sorry, Dan!

The RSPCA say an estimated 62% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear on Bonfire Night. It’s easy for you all to say “Calm it, it’s just fireworks,” but that’s like you watching the UK’s current eco nomic trials and tribulations and us dogs telling you: “Calm it - mortgage rates, interest rates, fuel costs and inflation are no big deal – they are just money things.”

So what can you do to help man’s best friend? Here are a few pointers for the big night.

The best thing you can do for your scaredy cat (or dog) is to make the day as un-Bonfire Night-like as possible. Why not create a ‘doggy haven’ with all our fave toys and blankets, like Dan has in the spare room - which, if you don’t mind me saying, is a bit dusty - or put on calm music to muffle the boom-y noises? I’m a big fan of Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No 9 in E major –yes, I’m a cultured pooch!

And if you’re going to buy them, then please consider getting those ‘silent’ fireworks, or qui eter ones at least. The good thing about that is loads of supermarkets are stocking their shelves with these now - and some, like Sainsbury’s, have even stopped selling fireworks altogether (woooo!).

Dan’s a big fan of these quieter fireworks. He doesn’t want to be complete killjoy, because he, like many people, really enjoys the displays, but he thinks it’s bonkers the noise levels in those big scary light things used at public events are around 120 dB - equivalent to a rock concert or a jet engine.

He thinks there are sensible ways to reduce the impact fireworks have on animals – includ ing farm animals and horses. That’s why he’s written to all supermarkets to clarify whether or not they’ll be stocking quiet ones in the run-up to celebrating the Gunpowder Plot near-miss of 1605 in 2022, and is encouraging you all to buy them. Way to go, Dan!

Happy Bonfire Night! Keep yourself and your furry family members safe and healthy!

Sincerely, Angel, very good girl to Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

Charfield station plans are unveiled

NEW station in Charfield has moved another step closer

a planning application as submitted.

South Gloucestershire Council and Network Rail have jointly submitted the application for the station, on land off Station Road in the centre of the village.

If the scheme goes ahead it will include two platforms, for northbound and southbound trains, linked by a pedestrian footbridge, with a bus stop, covered cycle parking and car parking.

The planning application also includes proposals changes to local roads to allow access to and from the station and car park.

The council will also decide on the application as the local planning authority, and has launched a public consultation, which can be found by visiting www.southglos.gov.uk/ planning-applications and searching for application P22/05778/R3F.

As the Voice went to press a total of 41 comments had been received on the plans, including 14 objections.

One resident said: "This proposal is totally unsuitable for a small village like Charfield which has already been impacted by uncontrollable development."

Another said: "I moved into the property two years ago based on the quiet village life I was after. At no point did any searches bring up that there was to be a railway station or more importantly a car park at the

bottom of my garden."

Some residents opposed the "unsightly and intrusive footbridge" while others questioned the need for bus stops when there was currently no service to use them.

One commuter who wrote in support said: "As someone who commutes from Bristol to Charfield, my only option is to drive.

"I would use the train to commute every day. This would alleviate traffic through Charfield, rush hour traffic around Bristol and I might save on fuel costs."

Another supporter said: "As a resident of Charfield I am in full support of this station. I think that the designs look great, and there has clearly been lots of work dedicated to considering the archaeology and local environment.

"This would allow people like myself to commute and travel for pleasure to both Gloucester and Bristol. Currently the bus connections are appalling, and you're even lucky if you can find a taxi, which makes cars an unfortunate necessity."

South Gloucestershire Council says a public consultation held earlier in the year showed that 78% of people who took part supported reopening a station, although the independent consultant found support was less strong among residents of the village itself, 55% of whom backed the idea.

Council cabinet member for transport Steve Reade said

Wills help charity

A THORNBURY solicitors firm has raised more than £1,500 for a charity based in the town.

Wards Solicitors launched their Free Will scheme, where people were able to write or update their wills in return for suggested charity donations to Brain Tumour Support, earlier this year.

Wills and probate partner Rachael Thomas coordinated the campaign and donated her time free to people taking part.

It is the second time Wards has taken part in the scheme for the charity, which supports people diagnosed with a brain tumour, helping them deal with the day to day impact of diagnosis and treatment.

Rachael said: “We were very happy to be involved in raising money for this worthwhile charity. At the same time, we are pleased to help people make or update their Will, which is an important document that everyone should have, no matter what age or physical ability."

For more information contact Rachael at the Wards’ Thornbury office on 01454 204899 or visit the branch at 41 High Street, Thornbury.

the station would help lower carbon emissions to help meet the council's Climate Emergency goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2030.

He said: "We want public transport to be a credible option for all of our residents, helping to boost connectivity to those those living in our rural communities.

"A station in Charfield will also improve access to jobs and education, opening up opportunities for local residents."

Network Rail regional industry programme director Malcolm Parsons said: "This planning application is an important step in bringing rail travel closer to more communities."

Great Western Railway head of regional and Welsh development Dan Okey said the operator would "work in collaboration with the council and Network Rail to bring forward a scheme that can be delivered".

A computer generated image of what the station is expected to look like

More of us have a job than ever before

THE latest employment figures published by the Office for National Statistics have shown that the number of people out of work in the UK has dropped to 3.4 per cent. This is the lowest it has been since 1974.

There is good news locally too, as South Gloucestershire continues to outperform much of the country.

In our area, just 1.6% of working age people are receiving out-of-work financial support, compared to the UK average of 3.7%.

In my role as the local MP, supporting jobs and the local economy is a vital part of our positive plan for South Gloucestershire, so it is particularly pleasing that the

number of people out of work in our area is now down by 365 compared with this time last year.

There are now more people with the security of a job in South Gloucestershire than ever before, and the district has bounced back since the pandemic to regain our status as one of the lowest areas for unemployment anywhere in the UK.

This follows a strong record of action from businesses, the local authority, and the community, to grow the local economy and increase jobs in South Gloucestershire.

I have been holding regular jobs fairs since being elected, including a disability jobs fair,

helping residents throughout Thornbury and Yate find the right job for them.

In September I hosted my ninth jobs fair in Chipping Sodbury, which was our most successful yet. More than 35 local and regional businesses were in attendance, including Stagecoach, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bromford and local businesses and organisations such as Hobbs House Bakery, Bluebird Care, Charles Saunders Ltd and many more.

Many local residents stopped by the event, to speak directly to employers about vacancies in our community.

There are now more people with the security of a job in South Gloucestershire

than ever before, helping to bring economic security to our community, more trade for businesses, and greater prosperity throughout the South West.

We are pushing forward with our positive plan for jobs and the economy for South Gloucestershire.

We cannot stop now, if we are to achieve our ambition of remaining the best place in the country to live, work and start a business.

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

Rockhampton Folk Festival

MAKING a difference to our community is at the heart of Rockhampton Folk Festival.

When we set up the festival one of our dreams was that it could promote and support local musicmaking.

We started this with our programme of outreach to schools and care homes which is growing every year.

We’re now taking the next step and offering our first Rockhampton Folk Festival Grants.

We will consider applications from individuals who want to develop their own music-making or from organisations, educational institutions, charities and groups who share our aim of supporting and developing music-making in our community.

Grants could support specific projects, be for music tuition or education, the purchase of equipment, enhancing venues etc.

We don't have any preconceived ideas. so be imaginative!

We will prioritise funding for

projects, people and organisations that deliver in the areas surrounding Rockhampton.

Grants of up to £500 are available and the closing date for the first round of grants is December 18. Find out all about it at rockhamptonfolkfest.org.uk.

Chris White-Horne

Thornbury Rotary Network

Thornbury Rotary Network (TRN) is hosting a fundraising Christmas Market at Thornbury Castle Hotel on Saturday November26, from 10am to 2pm.

Lots of fabulous things on sale, including home-made Christmas cards and decorations, jewellery, books and prints, beauty/health and well-being products, homemade clothing and accessories, cushion and pillow covers.

‘Goodies’ include home-made fudge, brownies, cakes and festive mulled wine. Refreshments will be available and there will also be a raffle.

The event has been organised to support local sellers and small businesses. Being a fundraiser,

the aim is to raise money for local Children’s Charities.

Adrian Dennis

Thornbury and District Cancer Research Committee

THE Cancer Research Fun Wine Challenge is returning in November.

This is a fun evening when you have tastings of eight different wines to enjoy!

If you know your Shiraz from your Cabernet Sauvignon, then your knowledge can be tested with this fun quiz.

Come along with your friends for a convivial evening when you can sample wines, enjoy cheeses and pate, and help raise money for Cancer Research UK.

This event will take place at St Mary’s Church Hall in Thornbury on Saturday

November 12 for a 7.30pm start.

Tickets are £18 per person to include wines, food and entrance,

FROM SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL

Celebrating recycling success in South Gloucestershire

WE’RE extremely proud of how good we are at recycling in South Gloucestershire.

The latest figures (2020/21) show that 60% of household waste is put out for recycling by residents, placing us well ahead of the national average.

We now have the fifth-high est recycling rate of all unitary authorities in the country and are recycling ten times more waste than we were in the year 2000.

These record-breaking figures are testament to the commit ment and effort that you, our residents, put into recycling your waste.

The council has also made ambitious changes to our waste and recycling collections, which means we are well on our way to hit our 70% recycling target, with nothing going to landfill, by 2030.

We are beginning to explore options for when our current waste contract ends in 2025, however officers and cabinet

members have stressed that the intention is to stay with the current method and timescale of weekly recycling and food waste collections and fortnightly black bin collections.

Recycle Week took place recently, from October 17-23, and this year the focus was to help people recycle even more by improving knowledge about how recycling makes a difference.

Recycling keeps metals, plastics, glass, paper, card and even clothing in use for longer, reducing the need for raw mate rials and in turn saving energy, water, fuel and the materials themselves. Recycling is one of the easiest ways we can help reduce our impact on nature and the environment.

Most of South Gloucester shire’s recycling is processed in the UK to make new products and packaging. Our food waste is recycled in Bristol, where it gener ates electricity and fertiliser.

Sorting and separating items in your recycling containers helps our crews put them into the right part of the truck and send them to the correct destination for processing, maximising recycling and keeping the cost of waste lower.

Our efforts are being further boosted by our involvement in a national trial to collect plastic bags and wrapping from households, as part of normal weekly recycling collections. The trial will help inform government and industry how plastic bags and wrapping can be added to existing household recycling collections to protect our envi ronment.

These collections began from October 17, with selected house holds from parts of Bradley Stoke, Chipping Sodbury and Olveston taking part.

If successful, the number of homes included will be expanded in 2023, with an aim of rolling

and can be obtained from Jennie on 01454.415856 or Gill on 07866 580608 or from any committee member.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Lynfa Fisher

Armstrong Arts Group

Michael Lunts, from the Armstrong Arts Group team, is to present a concert featuring a number of highly talented young musicians.

The event commemorates Remembrance Sunday, and marks the sacrifice of those who served in the first and second world wars.

The concert will take place at the United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, Thornbury BS35 2BA on Sunday November 13 at 3pm.

Tickets cost £7.50 or £5 for under 16 years.

Tea and cakes will be served in the interval.

Contact AAGThornbury@gmail. com or phone 01454 850933 for more information.

Jane Parfitt

it out to all households in the district by 2025.

Further information on waste and recycling collections and ad vice on how you can re-use and recycle more of your waste can be found online at beta.southglos. gov.uk/environment-and-waste/ waste-and-recycling.

With Rachael Hunt, cabinet member for communities

WORKING FOR SUEZ

Help needed

THORNBURY Volunteer

Centre is appealing on behalf of organisations who need help to find people with a few hours to spare to fill a variety of roles.

Among the latest requests for help is a plea for minibus drivers, needed by a group providing accessible and affordable transport for mainly older people who are unable to use conventional public transport.

Drivers are needed to take people shopping, to appointments and social events.

A walking group also needs volunteers to attend a weekly walk in the community and give support by providing encouragement and companionship to older people participating.

Walks are around one hour long, with the majority taking place during weekdays.

Full training is given to volunteers.

Volunteers are also needed to be digital champions, helping less confident older people to embrace digital technology. anyone who takes up the role will be trained and supported but must already be confident using basic technology, such as tablets and smartphones.

Full training will be given.

Several local charities are in need of additional volunteers to join their management boards as trustees, to help shape their futures.

People with experience from areas including human resources, finance and strategic planning are particularly welcomed to serve with charities helping older people, families and those in financial need.

For further information on opportunities and details on how to apply email Thornbury Volunteer Centre at mail@ volunteer-thornbury.co.uk.

Thornbury Library news

THORNBURY Library is hosting a keeping warm and well course on November 8, 15, 22 and 29: Explore

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 November 21 from 10am-1pm.

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.

solutions to reduce

bills and ways to stay warm and well in winter.

Suitable for all - to book a space email Aimee. Hilbourne@southglos.gov.uk.

Have You Read book club meets on November 4 from 2-3pm - no set novel, just drop in for refreshments and a chat about books.

Lego club meets every Saturday from 9.3010.30am - no booking required.

Book Focus Group (BFG), for children in Year 7 and up, takes place from 4-5pm on November 10.

Thornbury Library news

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

THORNBURY Library is hosting a keeping warm and well course on November 8, 15, 22 and 29: Explore

The library is open 9.30am-5.30pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and 9.30am12.30pm on Saturday.

solutions to reduce fuel bills and ways to stay warm and well in winter.

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

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

Suitable for all - to book a space email Aimee.Hilbourne@southglos.

WECA must take control of buses

AS residents and organisations in the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) and North Somerset, we are deeply concerned by the present cuts to essential bus services. The impact of these lost services will mean many, including the most vulnerable, will be unable to make essential journeys including to shops, schools, and doctors and hospitals.

The private bus companies are entirely profit-driven, so they’re justifying the bus cuts with the falling passenger numbers, rising fuel and wage costs, and driver shortages that make the services unprofitable with no regard for the public need.

This deregulated market is always at odds with the bus services that many in our communities need to get to work, school, shops, and health centres.

These changes to local bus services are making many residents genuinely fearful that people of all ages and abilities will be cut off from vital facilities they need to live well. Further, the loss of public transport will worsen congestion on the roads, increase air pollution, and undermine commitments WECA has made to reduce its carbon emissions and its climate emergency pledge.

The current constitution of WECA requires that the Metro Mayor Dan Norris and the three group leaders of Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire to all agree to make changes to bus services.

This open letter is calling

for them to put in place bus franchising, to suspend the deregulated bus market and provide a bus service under contract from WECA.

Residents want and deserve a bus service that delivers for all, and the only way for this to take place is for WECA to use its powers under the WECA constitution to deliver bus franchising.

We encourage readers to sign this open letter now at actionnetwork.org/forms/franchiseweca-bus-services-now.

West of England Shared Transport and Active Travel Network

Why were petitions not fully discussed?

IT is time that the residents of Thornbury should know the truth. South Gloucestershire Council have, since implementing the High Street closure, been working to their own rules and not those laid down in legislation.

The public will be aware of my petition against the closure, which raised just under 2,000 signatures. Unfortunately this was not sufficient, according to SGC rules requiring 2,500 signatures before it can be discussed in detail by the executive, and it was therefore only 'noted'.

A second petition was submitted on the same subject, which reached about 1,000 signatures. According to council rules, petitions on the same or similar topics should be considered together. This would have meant signatures in excess of 3,000, and the subject should have been fully discussed, but this did not happen. It appears SGC only listen to what they want.

The council have also published

that all business owners in the High Street had been consulted on the closure. I have made it my job that all business owners I have meet have been asked if they were consulted in person. All of all those I have asked have said no, so where does SGC get their facts from?

I have found that any questions asked of the council have been referred to their legal department, and then the replies you get are not fully answered.

Clive Washbourne Thornbury

The volume and direction of sounds are changed over time, but so slowly that your dog shows no signs of any fear. The sounds should also be associated with something that they enjoy, such as their favourite treats or a game.

Dogs who are very frightened already may require support from a qualified, experienced behaviourist.

We are a charity that offers more tips and advice at Dog School: fun, educational courses for dog owners based on up-to-date scientific research.

The nearest sessions are in Pucklechurch and St George.

Using reward-based training, we teach the key skills your dog needs to thrive in everyday situations, including focusing on helping dogs to cope with unusual sounds, so they remain relaxed and happy. For more information visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/dogschool.

Bec Konteh Coach, Bristol Dog School

The Dogs Trust

Help your dog cope with fireworks

BONFIRE night can be terrifying for many dogs, but did you know that teaching dogs to cope with noise fears in advance can help lessen the stress they experience when they hear the unexpected whizz, pop, and bang of fireworks?

Gradually teaching your dog that noises are not scary will help them cope with unexpected noises over time. This usually involves playing recorded versions of the scary noises, but starting at such a low volume that your dog is not worried by them.

Can you help give advice?

DO you have a few hours a week to spare and want to make a real difference? Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire is looking for volunteers to help in our friendly office in Yate.

You don’t need specific qualifications or experience: advisers receive full training.

You’ll gain new skills, meet new people, and you’ll be helping our clients overcome the problems they face and making a real difference to their lives.

We’re a registered charity providing people with free information and advice to help them solve their benefits, debt, employment, and other problems. Our service is free, independent, confidential and impartial. We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination.

We are currently recruiting for a variety of roles, whether you have 3 hours to offer or 2 half days.

If you are interested or would like more information, visit our website www.southgloscab.org.uk/ get-involved/ or email Emmanuelle. claverie@southglos.org.uk for more details or an informal chat.

Emmanuelle Claverie Lead Supervisor Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire

Metro Mayor Dan Norris and First Bus managing director Doug Claringbold.

Thornbury High Street

n

November 4

n CHANTRY ANNUAL FIRE WORKS PARTY, Castle Street, Thornbury. Family-focused event, doors 5.30pm, display starts 7pm. Tickets are only available on-line with numbers strictly limited - child £4, adult £6, family (2 + 3) £17.50. Visit www.thechantry.org.uk for more information.

November 5

n THORNBURY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Christmas table top sale with tea and cake, 10am-2pm, Alveston Methodist Church Hall. Tea, coffee, home-made cakes, cards, crafts, vintage items. Giant Christmas raffle. Sellers' tables can be booked for £10 each, at mail@ volunteer-thornbury.co.uk or by calling 01454 413392 and leaving a message.

November 5

n THORNBURY ROUND TABLE community fireworks display, Mundy Playing Fields, 5.30-8.30pm. Tickets onlinesearch for Eventbrite Thornbury Fireworks or visit facebook.com/ thornburyrtfireworks. On sale at Horders and News 4 U.

November 6

n FRIENDS OF MARLWOOD SCHOOl fish and chip quiz, 6pm start. For tickets please contact marlwoodfriends@gmail.com.

November 7

n ALVESTON GARDENS ASSO CIATION, Annual General Meeting and presentation by chairman Dr George Hargreaves, AGA in Corn wall 2022. Alveston Jubilee Hall, 7.30pm. Visitors welcome - £3.

November 11

n THORNBURY PICTURE HOUSE presents The Rescue, story of rescue of 12 boys and their football coach from deep inside a flooded cave in Thailand. Thornbury Meth odist Church Upper Hall, doors 7pm. Members free, guests £5. For more information visit www. thornburypicturehouse.org.

November 11

n CASTLE SCHOOL FRIENDS FAMILY QUIZ EVENING, 7.30pm, Castle School, Thornbury. Tickets £5 per head, from school reception or by emailing enquiries@castle schoolfriends.org. Raffle, drinks and nibbles from pop-up bar (cash and card accepted).

November 12

n THORNBURY AND DISTRICT CANCER RESEARCH COMMITTEE Fun Wine Challenge, with eight different wines to taste. St Mary’s Church Hall, 7.30pm start. Tickets are £18 per person to include

wines, food and entrance, from Jennie on 01454.415856, Gill on 07866 580608 or from any commit tee member.

November 13

n MICHAEL LUNTS AND ARMSTRONG ARTS GROUP team present remembrance concert with talented young musicians at the United Reformed Church, Chapel Street, Thornbury, at 3pm. Tickets £7.50, or £5 for under-16s. Tea and cakes served in the interval. Contact AAGThornbury@gmail. com or phone 01454 850933 for tickets.

November 17-19

n ALVESTON FRINGE GROUP OF ARTISTS AND CRAFTERS, autumn exhibition, St Helens Church, Greenhill Road, Alveston, 10am-4.30pm daily. Variety of crafts, ceramics and paintings, some of which will be for sale. Free entry, refreshments available, good disability access.

November 19

n CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR, Thornbury Baptist Church, 11am-3pm. Variety of craft and other stalls - browse for Christmas presents and decorations. Church café will serve hot drinks, cakes, light lunches and cream teas. All proceeds to Project Possible. Entry free: enquiries and stall bookings to Sue Dunn on 10454 416503 or suemdunn@virginmedia.com.

November 19-20

n THORNBURY & SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE MODEL RAILWAY CLUB 54th annual exhibition, Turnberrie's, Bath Road, Thornbury. Open 10am-5pm Sat urday, 10am-4pm Sunday, with 18 layouts of various scales, gauges, companies and locations, traders and preservation societies. Refresh ments available. Adult £7, child (5-16) £3, family (2+2) £15. More information at www.tsgmrc.co.uk/ exhibition-information.

November 23

n ALVESTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY MEETING, Methodist Church Greenhill Alveston, 7.30pm. Clive Burlton presents a collection of old films with a seasonal flavour. Visitors welcome: £5, including refreshments. More details from Margaret Cadwallader on 01454 417578.

November 26

n FUNDRAISING CHRISTMAS MARKET, Thornbury Castle Hotel, 10am-2pm, organised by Thorn bury Rotary Network. Homemade Christmas cards and decorations, jewellery, books, beauty/health products, homemade clothing and

accessories, fudge, brownies, cakes and festive mulled wine. Refresh ments and raffle. Supporting local sellers and small businesses, and raising money for charities Chil dren’s Hospice South West and Off The Record.

November 26

n THORNBURY CHORAL SO CIETY CONCERT, Castle school, 7.30pm. Programme includes Karl Jenkins' The Armed Man and Misa Criolla by Ariel Ramirez. Tickets £14 adults, £5 under-18, available from society members, Horders Stationers (after November 14) or at thornburychorale@gmail.com.

November 30-December 3

n THE VILLAGE PLAYERS present Robinson Crusoe & The Pirates, by Alan P Frayn, Pilning Village Hall. Weekdays 7.30pm, Saturday 1.30pm & 6pm. Tickets £7 & £5, under 3s free on the knee at the matinee. 1 seat in 10 free. To book call 01454 633786 or 632813, or email villageplayerspilning@gmail. com.

December 2

n ARMSTRONG ARTS GROUP presents Jim Causley celebrating the Christmas season with lesserknown West Country carols, medi eval and secular carols from around the British Isles, poems and a "gurt dollop of festive fun". The Ship Inn, Bristol Road, Alveston, 7.30pm. Tickets £12 with buffet option. More details from AAGThornbury@ gmail.com or 01454 850933.

December 3

n FILTONES CHOIR 40TH ANNIVERSARY CHRISTMAS CRACKERS CONCERT, 7.30pm, Filton Community Centre, Elm Park. Tickets £8 including refreshments, accompanied children free. Tickets from Dot Bryant on 07870 984760 or on the door. Raffle and retiring collection in aid of charity Sense.

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 com petitions. For more information contact Sally on ssjjtaylor@hotmail. co.uk or Hazel on 01454 885213.

Tuesday

n THORNBURY ART CLUB hosts live talks and demonstra tions by established artists on the fourth Tuesday of the month at St Mary's Church Hall, 7.30pm. Nonmembers 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 Turn berries Community Centre, Bath Road, Thornbury, every Tuesday from 10am-noon. No appointment needed.

n JUST SEW IT SEWING CLUB, every Tuesday 6.30-9.30pm at the Chantry Community and Arts Cen tre Castle Street, Thornbury. Come along and sew with others bring your sewing machine and materi als/pattern. To attend, call Carrie in advance on 07753 236095.

n THORNBURY MEMORY CAFE is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month (except Au gust) from 10.15am until 11.45am. Methodist Church Hall, High Street, Thornbury. For more 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 Com munity Centre, Elm Park, Filton BS34 7PS. New members welcomefirst 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 more information visit www. goodafternoonchoir.org, email gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk or call 01761 472468

We must stand together against hate crime

MY team and I recently recognised National Hate Crime Awareness

Hate crime is an offence that is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person’s gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability and gender

of something they have done, the result of a disagreement or being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Being targeted because of your age, race, sexual orientation, religion or any other reason is unacceptable and, as communities, if we see this behaviour we must challenge it and report it.

We must help give victims of hate crime the confidence to speak to the police or partner agencies about their experience.

If, as a victim, you do not feel like you can talk to the police for whatever reason, there are still many options available for support, such as Victim Support, SARI

or VOCAS, the Victims of Crime Advocacy Service.

VOCAS provides an enhanced advocacy service to those victims of crime who feel they need it and an opportunity to talk in confidence to someone who understands how race, sexuality, disability, mental health, age and/ or exclusion can contribute to you struggling to have your voice heard or understanding your rights and options.

To tackle hate crime, we must stand together and fight for a stronger and fairer society.

I also want to let you know about courier fraud scams, which appear to be increasing.

Unsuspecting victims receive calls from criminals asking them to withdraw cash and leave it for a courier to collect.

In one scam, the criminal pretends to work for the victim’s bank and says they are investigating counterfeit notes at their local branch.

They tell the victim to withdraw

money, and not to tell the bank what they have been asked to do.

The criminals then send someone to the victim’s house to collect the notes, claiming they will be checked to see if they are counterfeit – in reality, they just drive off with the victim’s money.

Another scam is when the fraudster claims to work for the police and says they have arrested someone using a cloned card belonging to the victim.

The victim is urged to withdraw money as part of the investigation - but is simply giving it to the fraudster.

These scammers pose as trusted officials and apply pressure in the hope people will let their guard down.

I want us to be one step ahead of them.

So, what should you do if you are targeted?

Take your time and consider if the police or your bank would really ask you to do this. If the answer is no, hang up - as long as

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford

you have not provided your bank details, your money is safe.

If you want to call the police or your bank, using an advertised number, leave it at least 10 minutes or preferably use a different phone - fraudsters often stay on the other end of the line, keeping the connection open and pretending to be whoever you have dialled.

Finally, report it to Action Fraud, online or on 0300 123 2040.

Kassia Portas is a sports injury specialist at The Thornbury Clinic and has a special interest in working with dancers, acrobats and pole dancers.

BECOMING strong and flexible is a hugely important part of reducing your risk of injury, in sport and dayto-day life.

It means building muscular strength alongside flexibility.

What is flexibility? It is a component of fitness that

Exercising for flexibility

describes the movement at one or more joints. The easiest and most popular method to measure flexibility is the measurement of someone’s range of motion – how far you can stretch.

Flexibility is just one of the components of fitness that can be performed by the human body. The other components are strength, endurance, speed, coordination, and agility. These all contribute to the overall movement of the human body.

There are 4 types of flexibility:

Dynamic active - moving through your available range by your own voluntary effort. This is the one we will focus on in this article.

Dynamic passive -being moved through range by someone else, whilst you are relaxed, for example by a therapist or stretch partner.

Static active - engaging a muscle in your end range of movement, without movement occurring.

Static passive - being held in your end range of movement by yourself or someone else, whilst you are relaxed.

During injury therapy, practitioners are often looking for areas that contribute to injuries.

A high percentage of that involves finding weak and/or short (inflexible) muscles.

A great way to improve both these areas in an efficient way is to work on ‘dynamic active’ flexibility, top of the list above.

This type of flexibility is something that can be completed by any person and can be amended to benefit any fitness or flexibility level.

Strength exercises can become flexibility exercises by moving in to your 'end range': this means that you go into the farthest point of a movement, making sure to do this in a safe and controlled manner.

Examples of exercises that can be amended to work on dynamic active flexibility are squats and lunges, oblique crunches, and overhead press. These are all movements that you can amend to increase your individual flexibility level.

Performing the movement into your end range might be making a movement deeper, and you'll improve your flexibility.

This type of training not only helps improve your flexibility but will also help increase strength into those end range positions.

This is massively important for sports that require any level

of flexibility. For example, a footballer will swing their leg into hip extension before kicking a ball. If that person’s hip flexibility is restricted, then they're more likely to pull the stretched muscle. If the muscles around the area aren't strong enough to control that large range of movement, again that person is more at risk of injury.

Additionally, tightness can occur in muscles due to weakness.

I know this sounds counterintuitive, but hear me out.

If you imagine a weak muscle working as hard as it can to perform movements, even though it's not as strong as it could be, that muscle will eventually become shorter to try and stay in an engaged state, to make the action easier.

Passive stretching alone will not help this issue, as it's desperately trying to do its job.

Increasing the strength will allow the muscle to be able to lengthen again and therefore be more susceptible to increasing flexibility.

The most common reasons I hear from people for not working on their flexibility are lack of enjoyment and/or lack of time.

This version of flexibility training combines both strength and flexibility which, for some, is a more interesting way of increasing flexibility.

By amending exercises to focus on both strength and flexibility, you can save time - and we could all do with more of that!

Day for carers

A CHARITY supporting carers in South Gloucestershire is inviting people to an event to help them find out more about dealing with the cost-of-living crisis.

Carers Support Centre is hosting the Carers Rights Day event at the Vassall Centre in Gill Avenue, Fishponds, Bristol, on November 24.

It is inviting unpaid carers who are providing vital support to family or friends, from across the Bristol and South Gloucestershire area, to join the event in person or online.

The charity is offering help and advice to carers, who it says are among the "hardest hit" by rising inflation.

People can find out about how the cost-of-living crisis is affecting carers, ask questions of council representatives and find out about where and how to ask for support to deal with financial difficulties.

Carers Support Centre spokesperson Adrian Robson said: "The event will also give people the chance to meet other carers, mingle, share food, browse stalls, enjoy free pampering, and join other carers for a Walk and Talk in nearby Vassalls Park.

"Or, if you prefer, the event can be joined from home via Zoom."

The event runs from 10.30am to 3pm.

To book a place visit www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk/events, email Comms@carerssupportcentre.org.uk or call 0117 958 9902.

Medals for Thornbury Taekwon-Do club students

STUDENTS from Thornbury Taekwon-Do club have won several medals at the World Championships held in the Netherlands.

Students aged 15 to 56 represented Team UK in the International Taekwon-Do Federation competition in Amsterdam.

They returned with silver and bronze medals for patterns and sparring in junior and adult categories.

Stuart Leppard, Kieran McDermott, Joel Cassar, Ellianne Reader, Millie and Cameron Bates competed in the championships.

Gavin Reader, who is a 2nd degree black belt and has been a sports coach for two decades, said: “It’s been incredible to see their development, not just in the martial art, but as inspirational people.”

Classes are held at Thornbury Leisure Centre on Monday and Thursday evenings, along with squad training at Turnberrie's

Community Centre every other weekend.

The club was set up in 2001 by Vaughan Buxton, a 7th degree black belt and a British, European and world title holder, who has been training in the art for over 30 years.

The martial art emphasises fast kicking techniques and is said to promote physical and mental strength.

Health benefits of taekwondo include improved balance, flexibility, stamina, strength and posture. Psychologically,

it is reported to help develop confidence, self-esteem and resilience.

Gavin, who is a project manager for the NHS, said: "I’ve seen children come along to train and in a relatively short space of time, become much more confident in themselves.

“As a parent, I think it’s a great way to help your child build resilience and self-esteem, while improving their health and well-being.”

Thornbury TKD trains at Thornbury Leisure Centre every Monday and Thursday, along with squad sessions every other weekend at Turnberrie's Community Centre.

For more information, contact Vaughan on 07866 685099 or email info@ thornburytkd.com. Alternatively visit the website thorburytkd. com or the Thornbury TKD Facebook page.

Angela Belassie

James leads Thornbury charge

THORNBURY Running Club members enjoyed considerable success at the Great Bristol Run Half Marathon.

The outstanding performance of the day came from 19-year-old James Harrod, who was making his debut at the 13.1 mile distance.

James came fifth overall, in a time of 73 minutes, and was the runaway winner of the U23 competition at the event, which took place on closed roads in the city at the end of September.

Kington resident George Evans was the winner of the men's over50s race, in an excellent time of 1 hour 25 minutes.

Thornbury's club captain Kevin Wood, racing just a fortnight after competing in the Great North Run in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, secured a hard-fought third place in the men's over-65 competition.

Other Thornbury runners to compete were Phil Blackburn, 1h 22m; Paul Harrod 1h 24m; Connor Vidal-Cocker and Garry Slater, both in 1h 28m; Peter Cable in 1h 32m; Dylan Roberts, 1h 33m; Dan Nott, 1h 45m; plus Stuart Barnes and Roger Glew, both in 1h 53m.

The Thornbury Taekwon-Do team at the world championships

James Harrod (in the red vest) on his way to a 5th-placed finish in the Bristol Half Marathon

n SPORT

WHILST they are still firmly anchored at the bottom of the Hellenic Premier Division, Thornbury Town’s recent performances have brought some optimism at the Mundys that the club can steer clear of relegation.

The return of Harry Brock and Brandon Benjamin, together with a couple of other new signings has boosted confidence at the club.

A home defeat by the odd goal against Royal Wootton Bassett was followed by a convincing 3-0 win at mid-table Shrivenham, with goals from Harry Brock, Harvey Pritchard and an own goal. Thorns then made the trip to Hereford Lads Club and looked to be on the way to securing a point following goals from Pritchard and Jim Brock, but a late goal for the hosts saw them return home empty handed.

Manager Rich Joyce shuffled his squad for the cup game at Shortwood United, but another good performance went unrewarded, as Town lost 2-1.

However with confidence growing within the team, a visit from third placed Westfields saw Town come close to securing their first home win of the season, only to be denied by some excellent saves from the Westfields keeper. Nevertheless they were pleased to pick up their first home point of the season in the 1-1 draw, courtesy of another goal from Harvey Pritchard.

Despite the hard start to their League season, Town continue to make progress in the FA Vase. Following their win in Surrey in the last round, Thorns made a 320-mile round trip to Cornwall to face South West Peninsular side St Blazey.

The hosts were top of the table and, in front of a large partisan crowd, created some early chances - but a combination some good defending and smart saves from keeper Mackenzie Welsh kept the score level.

Town grew into the game and created the better chances, with Harry Brock and Harvey Pritchard causing all sorts of problems for the home defence.

Thornbury took a deserved lead on the hour mark, when Jim Brock’s penalty gave the home keeper no chance and five minutes later doubled their lead, when Pritchard capitalised on an under-hit back pass and fired past the keeper.

St Blazey scored from the

FA Vase win adds to optimism at Thornbury Town

penalty spot themselves in the last minute, but Town saw out stoppage time to reach the 2nd Round of the FA Vase for only the second time in their history.

The draw for the next round had not been made as the Voice went to press, but the tie will be played on November 12.

Meanwhile the Reserves have made an excellent start to their first season in the Senior Division of the Bristol & District League, and currently sit top of the table with a 100% record after 5 games, having only conceded 3 goals, whilst netting 25 themselves.

6-0 victories against Iron Acton Reserves and Bristol Barcelona were followed up with a 5-0 away thrashing of secondplaced Bedminster Down.

The team have also made progress in the County Cup, securing a 1-0 win away at Old Sodbury. Goals are being spread around the side but Cameron Drew leads the scoring charts, with 7 goals, followed by Harrison Young with 5 and Matt Constable with 3.

The A team have made a solid start to their new season following their promotion to Division 2, and currently sit in 4th place in the table.

Following defeat at current

leaders Bradley Stoke in the first game of the season, the A’s secured their first win with a 3-1 win at Nicholas Wanderers.

This was followed by a 6-0 thrashing of Highridge United Reserves and then a 3-3 draw at

second placed MPK Lofts.

Confidence is high that the squad will again be challenging for promotion, whilst at the same time looking for a good run in the County Cup.

Malcolm Carr

Strong start for Thornbury Ladies

THORNBURY Ladies have made a pleasing start to the hockey league season, winning two and drawing one of their first three games.

Last season’s other promoted side, UWE, provided the opposition in the first game, with Jo Deas' side gaining a point in a 1/1 draw.

Alice Atkinson scored the goal and Vicky Ball unluckily had one disallowed.

Old adversaries Hanham were next up, and were beaten 6-1, with the Thornbury goals coming from Cos Deas (3), Vicky Ball, Esther Jenkinson and Mandy McGarry.

In their latest game the team travelled to face Lydney 3rds without captain Jo Deas or the prolific scorer Cos Deas.

Mandy McGarry's side came away with a 10-0 win, with goals from Vicky Ball (4), Sophie Vizard, Alice Atkinson, Rose Alexander, Connie Talbot and Molly Smith, and an own goal completing the scoring.

Thornbury 2nds have gained one victory, against Keynsham 3rds, but lost their other game against Wick 2nds.

The newly formed Thornbury Men achieved their first league victory in their most recent match. Goals from Tim Moss and Connor Matthews set up a 2-1 victory against South Gloucestershire 2nds.

Training continues on Monday evenings at Castle School, with the juniors meeting from 6.30-7.30pm, followed by the seniors from 7.30-8.30pm.

David Parry-Jones

Thornbury Town Under 12’s have a new kit this season thanks to a two-year sponsorship deal. Alan McFerran, owner of McFerran Physio based at Clifton Rugby Club, near Cribbs Causeway, is funding the kit until the end of the 2023-24 season.

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT

MBST : Treatment for spinal arthritis

MBST Cell regeneration: What is MBST?

death and cell reproduction.

- Optimising cell oxygen levels

- Improving Cell energy production

Ann came to my clinic in May having suffered back pain for 30 years, getting worse in the last 10 years with arthritis to the facet joints and disc degener ation. Osteopathy and massage were no longer effective and it was really impacting here mobility, sewing and life in general. We decided to go with a course of MBST to target healing of her joint cartilage and we’re glad we did. At her follow up in early October she’s 85% better. Standing, walking, mornings and most importantly seeing are all now possible without giving it much thought which is exactly what we wanted. Her back pain is very much now at the back of her mind and as you can see she’s pretty delighted by the result.

The results we’re seeing now in patients with varying injuries and conditions is really remarkable.

MBST is remarkable in that it reliably stimulates a natural healing process in a specific tissues that over time creates huge quality of life changes to patients for whom there are few other options. It’s completely safe and a lovely process to go through.

I’ve also just discharged Kate (left), 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.

Lynne is a dear patient that I’ve been manag ing for Low back pain over many years with hands on care. In the last 2 years however her condition became much more painful and less responsive and after some scans we found significant multi-level disc and joint degenerative change with associated forward slippage of her vertebrae causing severe sciatica. Walking was extremely difficult and day to day pain was very high. The options were either surgical fusion or try disc AND joint MBST to attempt to naturally heal and stabilise her condition.

I’ve also just discharged Kate (left), 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.

- Optimising intercellular signalling pathways

- Reducing inflammatory mediators

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

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

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.

The results we’re seeing now in patients with varying injuries and conditions is really remarkable.

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 therapy.

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

- Optimising cell oxygen levels

- Improving Cell energy production

- Optimising intercellular signalling pathways

- Reducing inflammatory mediators

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.

We chose the latter/least invasive option to begin with and the results after 3 months have been life changing. Still early days so things should really stabilise over the next 9 months but her pain both in the back and leg is now but a minor issue. We couldn’t be more pleased at this stage and her prognosis is looking really good based on previous similar cases I’ve man aged in this way.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

Good start all round for Thornbury

opened their league campaign with an impressive 40-10 win over Ashley Down.

Matson, who had not lost a game

months.

very nearly ended when Thornbury led into injury time, only for Matson to score a try in the last move of the game, and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Thorns followed that with a second tough game at Newent, but came away with a hugely satisfying 28-7 win. Alfie Richardson scored his seventh try of the season late in the game

secure maximum points for Thorns.

Mike Priday then scored three of Thornbury’s eight tries in a 46-22 home win over Frome that was marred by a serious injury to the visitors' player-coach.

Thornbury are now third in the table.

The Second XV have had a

fine season, and although they lost to BAC First XV in early October they have averaged over 40 points a game.

Their team is an exciting mix of youth and experience, and

through training with the other senior players, under the creative eyes of the coaching team, they are developing into a fine side.

After a couple of useful preleague friendlies, the Ladies XV

Well led by Laura Panting, the skills of Polly Pearce, Sadie Giles and Gemma Tyrrell in particular have come to the fore, and the Ladies have run in some outstanding scores.

The Colts team, also training with the senior men, have also had a fine season.

They lost narrowly to Dings Crusaders in the National Colts Cup but have won all the rest of their games, including a win over Bath.

The First XV are home to Winscombe at the end of October before a trip to Trowbridge in early November concludes a run of games in which Thornbury will look to consolidate their position in the top three and put pressure on top two Matson and Chippenham.

The end of November sees Chippenham come to Thornbury for a huge match.

Dave Fox

Thornbury Ladies full-back Polly Pearce breaks through the Ashley Down defence. Picture: Dave Fox

Tackling the climate emergency

South Gloucestershire is taking action to respond to the climate emergency with many initiatives to help residents and organisations play their part in helping the planet.

Recycling success

More than 2,000 South Gloucestershire homes are taking part in an exciting trial of a new flexible plastic recycling scheme as part of their normal weekly recycling collections. Selected households in Bradley Stoke, Chipping Sodbury and Olveston are participating in the first year of the potential three-year trial which is part of the drive to increase the amount of packaging that we can recycle to protect our environment, including plastic bags, confectionary wrappers, foil lined packaging and plastic film. Government figures on national recycling rates show South Gloucestershire is now recycling 60 per cent of all its waste. The council had the fifth highest recycling rate of all councils of its kind in the country in 2020/21, an amazing success by everyone involved.

Green light for nature projects

The council is looking at ways to protect and conserve wildlife and nature across the area. It is a key part of the council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, for which it was scored in the top-10 of councils in the UK, recognising the commitment to deliver real change.

Several nature projects have been given the go ahead, including as part of the new local plan. One such project is Frampton End Farm nature reserve, near Frampton Cotterell where planting new trees and wetlands will help act as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide emis sions and tackling climate change.

At Siston Common in Kingswood, hundreds of local volunteers recently came together to plant over 7,000 wildflower plants in the new meadow created by the council. The mass planting marked the start of the Commons Con nections, the Wild Belt project, a £1.26 million project to increase, improve and better connect important habitats across South Gloucestershire for nature that will also include the planting over 6,000 new trees to help address biodiversity decline.

Improvements will be made to links between registered common land, unimproved grasslands, woodlands and associated habitats along the South Gloucestershire and Bristol border. Tree and wildflowers will be planted, alongside the conservation of grassland habitats and pond creation and restoration.

The council will create a brand-new biodiversity-focused park at the former Warmley Pitch and Putt golf course to support nature

recovery in the community. The council asked residents to choose where the park should be and received nearly 200 responses with the most popular choice being the former golf course. The park will also aim to include space that is accessible for everyone, providing a

Following its success last year, the council’s tree voucher scheme is back. To mark National Tree Week (Saturday 26 November –Sunday 4 December), the council will be offering vouchers that can be exchanged for trees once again to residents to improve the tree coverage in South Gloucestershire. The council is aiming to plant enough trees by 2030 to double its tree canopy to improve biodiversity and keep its local environment healthy as part of its response to the climate and nature emergency.

stimulating and relaxing environment for the whole community. Consultation on what might be included as part of the new park will start in November and on the council’s consultation website at southglos.gov.uk/consultations

Tree Week coming up

Cllr Steve Reade planting wildflowers with Max and Kady Stuart

Community planting in Page Park, Staple Hill

Spotlight on learning Schools success

South Gloucestershire is making great strides with education, as demonstrated by its recent Ofsted reports. Over the last five years, its schools have moved from 35 per cent Good or Outstanding at Secondary and Post 16 to 71 per cent. And, as of 31 May this year, 83 per cent of all its schools (including Primary) are rated as Good or Outstanding. This means 32,432 of the area’s young people attend a Good or Outstanding South Gloucestershire School, compared with 6,036 pupils in 2017.

Building blocks of learning in Winterbourne and Frenchay

The new Frenchay Church of England Primary School opened its doors to pupils last month. The £11 million building on the former Frenchay Hospital site will accommodate 420 pupils – up from 140 at its former Victorian home on Frenchay Common, where it had been since 1842.

The building is designed to the standards of environmental organisation Passivhaus, meaning it will have a very low carbon impact on the environment. Benefiting from an £800,000 investment from the council’s Climate Emergency Fund, the design includes high levels of insulation, triple glazing, low energy LED lighting, heating provided by air-source heat pumps and recycling of heat through a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system, which also ensures good air quality throughout the school.

The school will use electricity only, requir ing no fossil fuel consumption on site, and generate its own zero carbon energy through photovoltaic solar panels on the roof, with any surplus energy feeding into the national grid.

Meanwhile, work is underway building Elm Park Primary School’s new facilities. Two build ings will replace the Winterbourne school’s existing premises over two phases, ultimately providing places for 210 local children to learn in high quality classrooms.

The first phase is expected to cost around £11 million, provided by the council, and will open for pupils at the start of term in September 2023. Also designed to Passivhaus standards to minimise environmental impact, the new buildings will transform the existing site with eight classrooms and state-of-the-art facilities providing community-use spaces in cluding a hall, multi-use outdoor sports pitch and playing field.

This is all part of the council’s continued investment in schools with £82m capital investment since 2019 and last summer more than £2.2m was spent on improvements and maintenance.

Summer Reading Challenge

Six thousand children took part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge at South Glouces tershire libraries, with primary school children reading nearly 100,000 books

over the school holidays. Libraries and The Reading Agency partnered with the Science Museum Group for this year’s challenge, which helps to build children’s reading skills and confidence.

The science and innovation theme, named ‘Gadgeteers’, was designed to spark children’s curiosity about the world around them and celebrate the role of the imagination in both reading and the sciences. Parents and carers said the challenge had been great to keep children reading over the summer holidays and the free events really helped to involve and encourage children to be part of the challenge.

Well done to all those who took on the challenge.

Cllr Ben Burton and Cllr Erica Williams with Headteacher, Carol-Marie Bond, plus local councillors and representatives from BAM Construct UK.

Cllr Rachael Hunt with children receiving their Summer Reading Challenge certificates and medals