Thornbury Voice April 2018

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2018 Issue 13

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Flooding fears to be raised at housing public inquiry MEASURES will have to be taken to ensure no increased risk of sewer flooding to downstream properties if a plan for up to 370 homes on the outskirts of Thornbury is approved.

Bovis Homes wants to develop land off Gloucester Road from Upper Morton to Crossways Lane at The Knapp.

A planning inquiry will be held in the autumn into the scheme after South Gloucestershire Council failed to determine the application within a specified time.

The council’s planners were being recommended to oppose the development as Thornbury Voice went to press. Neighbouring parishes have already said they have worries about flooding downstream of Thornbury which could affect them if the houses are built and Wessex Water said existing foul systems were remote from the site, requiring a new and long off-site connecting sewer.

It also said there were no local public surface water systems with capacity to accept surface water connection from the site.

Full story page 4

Stars of the community Thornbury stalwarts honoured PAGE 2

Pounds for play

Snow stops play

Mundy Playing Fields get cash boost PAGE 3

Closed country Countrywide store rescue fails PAGE 5

IT was a little hard to see the white lines as snow interrupted the winter season at Thornbury Tennis Club. Members hope spring will have sprung by the time the summer season gets under way. Tennis news, page 38

En garde for England Thornbury fencer gets call up PAGE 36

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thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n NEWS

Thornbury volunteers thanked for their work THREE people from Thornbury were among nearly 30 unsung heroes recognised for their contribution as volunteers to South Gloucestershire’s communities.

The community awards are presented each year

by South Gloucestershire Council’s chairman or woman at a ceremony attended by the winners and their families.

Thornbury’s VIPs included Kim Walsh-Young, who was honoured for her work with young people.

Kim is a leader of the 4th Thornbury Brownies group, a role she has filled for many years as well as more recently taking on the role of division commissioner.

She was nominated for her enthusiasm and support in encouraging girls to have a good time and to grow as young women.

Martin Summers, who has volunteered as a Duke of Edinburgh leader for the Thornbury Open Award Centre for 21 years, was also recognised.

He gives his time to train young people for the expedition section of their Duke of Edinburgh's Award, as well as running training, practice and assessed expeditions.

Martin’s long association with the centre has helped many young people achieve their awards.

Also thanked for her work was Tor Goodman, who founded JIGSAW Thornbury in 2013 to help parents of children with additional needs get support.

Tor trained as a paediatric nurse and is the mother of two young children, both born prematurely and both with complex additional needs of no specific diagnosis.

One parent of a child who uses the service said JIGSAW had been invaluable in pointing her family to appropriate services and getting social support.

The awards were presented

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to recipients at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College’s WISE Campus by the council’s current chairman, Ian Blair.

Also present were the lord L] lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Dame Janet Trotter, and vicelord lieutenant, Robert Bernays.

Councillor Blair said: “These awards are a great way to say thank you to some of the many volunteers who make South

Gloucestershire such a great place to live and work.

“While reading through and shortlisting the nominations, it was obvious that those put forward for an award are held in high esteem in their local communities.

“The positive impact which their commitment and hard work has on others is extremely uplifting and encouraging.”

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2018

3

n NEWS

Major investment for popular Thornbury play area CIVIC leaders are planning to spend £85,000 on a new play area at Thornbury’s popular Mundy Playing Fields.

The town council said it was continuing its programme of investment into new play facilities through the scheme to completely refurbish those at the site.

Contractor Proludic has been appointed to design and install the new play area before the summer holidays.

It will involve replacing the majority of the old equipment and safety surfacing, while retaining and incorporating the splash pad, zip wire, embankment slides, roundabout, climbing frame and balance bars.

Adult exercise equipment will also be relocated away from the children's play area.

The council said: “We aim to provide an inclusive play space that can be used for all children aged up to 16, split between a dedicated toddler area based around the splash pad and linked by the slides to the main children’s play area.

“Working with Proludic and based on consultation undertaken last year, we have drawn up designs that we want the community’s views on before we place the final order for the equipment.

“We are particularly keen to hear from people as to which pieces of play equipment can be added to the core design,

whether we are providing the right range of play activities and any suggestions that could improve the play area.”

Anyone who wants to comment on the proposals can do so until April 3.

The second of two drop-in consultation events will also take place on Saturday, March 24, from 10am-1pm in the St Mary Centre.

The plans can also be seen online at www. thornburytowncouncil.gov. uk or at the Town Hall in High Street during normal opening hours.

News? contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Orchids on display LOVERS of exotic plants will get a treat this month as the Bristol & West of England Orchid Society holds its annual show in Chipping Sodbury on Saturday 14 April.

The Society, formed in 1949, displays its Orchids throughout the year from Cheltenham to Devon.

The show includes five orchid societies displaying their plants, from Devon, Taunton, Cheltenham, Somerset & Wiltshire and Cardiff, the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Show at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall is open to the public from 11.00 am until 4 pm.

Further details are available from the organiser on 01454 883415

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2018

n NEWS

Planners urged to oppose 370-homes plan before scheme determined by inspector COUNCILLORS were being asked to oppose controversial plans to build up to 370 homes in open countryside in Thornbury ahead of a public inquiry into the scheme.

As previously reported in Thornbury Voice, house builders Bovis and members of the Fear family lodged an appeal to get a decision taken on the proposal for fields off Gloucester Road on the north side of the town.

The outline scheme involves building across nearly 60 acres (24 hectares) of agricultural land stretching from Upper Morton to Crossways Lane at The Knapp, taking development further out of the town into the countryside towards Whitfield alongside the B4061.

The appeal was submitted against South Gloucestershire Council’s non-determination of the application within an agreed

period and a planning inspector will now hold an inquiry, expected to last for ten days, in September.

Thornbury Town Council, which is opposing the plan, had already warned about the length of time being taken to consider the application, saying an appeal through non-determination would be the worst possible outcome.

As Thornbury Voice went to press, members of South Gloucestershire Council’s development control committee were meeting to decide how they would have determined the application had they been able.

In a report by officers to the committee, the recommendation was to oppose the scheme on a number of grounds, including development in open countryside, the unsustainable nature of the scheme and the

harm it could cause to the hamlet of Upper Morton.

The report said: “By reason of its scale and siting, the proposed development would subsume the hamlet of Upper Morton, which is a non-designated heritage asset.”

Officers were also concerned about the nearness of the site to that of the proposed Buckover garden village.

The report said: “The location of the site within close proximity to Buckover garden village, and its size, will have an effect that is so substantial that to grant permission for a housing scheme at this stage will undermine the plan making process and will predetermine decisions about the scale and location of development in Thornbury and at Buckover, which are central to the draft Joint Spatial Plan.”

As well as objections from

individuals, the town council, local pressure group TRAPP’D - Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development - and the Campaign to Protect Rural England, parish councillors in neighbouring Hill and Oldbury-on-Severn have raised fears about the risk of flooding downstream of Thornbury which could affect them.

Opposition from a number of sources has centred on increased traffic and road safety, as well as the pressure so many new homes already being built were putting on the town’s GP surgeries, schools and sewerage systems.

But the appellants are expected to claim there would be no adverse effects arising from the development that would significantly or demonstrably outweigh the benefits of the scheme.

Marlwood School reunion to mark former pupils’ 50th birthdays

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SCHOOL days will be remembered at a reunion of former Marlwood pupils who have reached their 50th birthday or are about to mark the event.

A group of ex-students of the Alveston secondary school hit on the idea while having a drink together.

Tytherington dairy farmer Richard Cornock, Elspeth Taylor (formerly Edwards) and Jane Williams (previously Garratt) are now trying to trace as many of their old classmates as possible to invite them to the reunion.

The trio said: “A few of us got together over a drink one evening and thought it would be a good idea, now we are all

hitting 50, to turn the clock back and remember our school days.

“We’ve booked the drama hall at Marlwood School and there will be 80s music, a bar and food. We want as many people to come along as possible and have a good time.”

The event will be held during the evening of June 9 in the school’s drama hall and is open to those who started at the school in September 1979.

Email Marlwoodreunion@ outlook.com for more information and to buy tickets or visit the Facebook page, Marlwood school reunion class of 84-86.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

5

n NEWS

D-day on Armstrong Hall future A DECISION on the future of the Armstrong Hall complex was set to be decided as Thornbury Voice went to press.

A public meeting held to allow people to speak out on three options for the hall heard calls for that decision to be delayed.

The meeting was held as part of a three-week public consultation exercise, which also involved information displays and a consultation drop-in event.

People were asked their views on three options - a rebuild costing £4.9 million, a refurbishment estimated to cost £2.85 million or relocating the facilities to the Turnberries community

building in Bath Road.

The Armstrong Hall is in desperate need of an upgrade if it is to remain the town’s main performance venue.

When local people were originally asked for their opinions, hundreds responded and 75 per cent of them said they preferred facilities to remain in the current location in Chapel Street.

Trustees and town councillors also favour retaining and improving the Armstrong Hall facilities on its present site.

Members of the town council and the Armstrong Hall Charitable Trust were due to make a decision on the building on March 20.

OPEN DAY Thurs 26th April 2.30pm to 5:00pm

Country store closes after acquisition fails THE long established Countrywide store on the edge of Thornbury is closing down after the retailer went into administration.

The store was one of 48 in the Countrywide chain that had been expected to be acquired

by Mole Valley Farmers in a deal originally expected to be completed by the end of January.

But the sale was subject to review by the Competition and Markets Authority, which announced it would carry out an investigation that could take up to six months to complete.

Countrywide said it would be unable to meet its financial obligations for that length of time and called in administrators from KPMG. David Pike, Mark Orton and Will Wright were appointed joint administrators and at the time they said it was their intention to seek a buyer for the business in whole or part.

They said: “We have appointed Hilco Capital to assist in running the stores whilst we explore and develop available options.”

However, signs then went up at the Thornbury branch - and at others - announcing a closing down sale.

Countrywide employed a total of about 750 people, who had been expected to transfer to Mole Valley if that deal had gone ahead.

A statement from the Countrywide directors said: “Following their appointment, the administrators will determine the appropriate course of action and future for the business.

“It is with significant regret that the Countrywide retail business, which trades from 48 stores and employs more than 700 staff, will now face a very uncertain future.”

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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thornburyvoice May deadline

Our May edition will be going to print on April 23. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by April 18. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

Thornbury Voice contacts Lynne Hutchinson

Richard Drew

07739 924421 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

01454 800 120 contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Editorial

Publisher

Your views Letters for publication can be sent to us via email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk We reserve the right to edit your letter.

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Local information South Gloucestershire Council www.southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Safer Stronger team sscg@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868009 Anti social behaviour team asbreporting@southglos.gov.uk 01454 868582 Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc streetcare@southglos.gov.uk

Environment/trading standards 01454 868001 Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.uk general enquiries: 101 Fire www.avonfire.gov.uk General enquiries: 0117 926 2061 NHS Health Call 111 Well Aware health & social care information www.wellaware.org.uk Tel: (freephone) 0808 808 5252

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Thornbury Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered.

Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Thornbury Voice is distributed each month to local residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from local pick-up points. Feedback is welcomed, call Richard On 01454 800 120 or contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

April, 2018

n NEWS

Community to be celebrated through flower arrangements A FLOWER festival in Thornbury’s parish church will be held as part of a diocesan-wide event to celebrate community.

Nature’s elements of fire, water, air and earth form the theme of the festival, which will run in St Mary’s Church from June 8-11.

Organisers plan to feature 32 exhibits and any profits will be shared between the church and the Thornbury in

Bloom campaign.

As preparations continue, it is hoped to receive donations to help stage the event.

Anyone who wants to create an arrangement or would like an exhibit to be dedicated to a loved one should contact Jean Boake on 01454 416220.

The event will be part of the Diocese of Gloucester’s Festival for All celebration.

Drop-in session to recruit more foster carers THORNBURY will host the first of a series of information sessions aimed at finding more people interested in fostering children and teenagers in South Gloucestershire.

Foster carers will be at the five events to explain their role and how they make a difference to youngsters.

Anyone over the age of 21 can be considered as a foster carer, provided they have a spare bedroom, can provide a safe and

stable home, have the time to care for a child or young person and can work as part of a team.

There are also different types of fostering, from shortterm placements to long-term fostering and emergency care.

The Thornbury event takes place in the Turnberries community centre, Bath Road, on Tuesday, April 3. Visitors can call in any time between 4pm and 8pm.

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April, 2018

7

n NEWS

Get on your bike for brain tumour charity A THORNBURY woman is looking to raise money for a charity that has helped her deal with a brain tumour.

Julie Harvey has grade 4 brain tumour for which there is no cure. Over the last year she has undergone an operation, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Despite that she’s been busy raising money for the Brain Tumour Support charity. She told Thornbury Voice: “During the year I have remained very active, doing a 2 mile open water swim and walking 26 miles around Edinburgh on a charity walk.

I have been having counselling from them which I find invaluable and would be lost without them.”

She’s now organising a charity bike ride on Saturday 26 May from Thornbury Sailing Club. Riders can choose between 33k, 64k and 54k distances. Prices are £20, £25, £30 and includes a finishers medal and tea and cake. Entries must be in by 12th May. If you are interested, please contact Julie by email: julie_harvey@btinternet.com

Fancy a brew? Come and help in the tea room

THORNBURY’S Over 60s Tea Room needs volunteers to make teas and coffees.

The organisers are looking for people who can offer 3 hours a month.

The tea room runs in the Town Hall, and is open weekdays from 10am – 4pm. Two volunteers are needed per day, in the morning from 10am – 1pm, and in the afternoon from 1pm – 4pm.

Contact Ann Keates on 01454 885058 if you feel able to help.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Call to golfers to swing into action to help prostate cancer charity and appeal GOLFERS in Thornbury have the chance to raise funds to help in the fight against prostate cancer.

A charity golf day has been organised by Yate and District Rotary Club, which has invited players from neighbouring areas to join its members on the tees at Chipping Sodbury's golf course.

The event takes place on Thursday, May 24, with money raised going to the charity Prostate Cancer UK and the Prostate Cancer Care Appeal at Southmead Hospital, which was set up to buy a second surgery robot.

Players interested in being involved should email rogerhooker@yaterotaryclub. co.uk for information on taking part.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Spring Sale At the Old Mill Interiors we’re holding a very special Spring Sale event, bringing you great savings on a range of furniture, mattresses, lighting, homewares, gifts and rugs. With everything reduced and up to 50% off selected items, this is a great opportunity to pick up a bargain this Spring, bringing your home a fabulous new look.

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thornburyvoice

April, 2018

9

n NEWS

Cleaner buses to run in Thornbury A BUS service that runs between Thornbury and Bristol will benefit from a £2.2 million funding boost aimed at improving air quality.

The 78/79 service, which stops at Filton and Cribbs Causeway, is among 12 routes across South Gloucestershire, Bristol and the Bath area that will be operated with less polluting buses.

The money comes from the Government’s Clean Bus Technology Fund and will lead to the upgrading of the bus fleet using emissions reduction technology on a total of 81 buses.

They run on routes that are the most polluted, with levels of harmful air pollutants that are too high.

By upgrading to the best

environmental standard available, the release of nitrous oxides from the vehicles will be cut by up to 94 per cent.

Colin Hunt, South Gloucestershire’s Cabinet member for planning, transportation and the environment, said: “We know that getting travellers out of their cars and onto buses helps to reduce congestion and makes journeys easier and faster.

“It also helps us achieve our pollution reduction goals.”

Another route to benefit will be the X46 Yate-Bristol service, which operates via Winterbourne and Iron Acton, and the 47 Chipping Sodbury-Bristol bus, which stops in Coalpit Heath.

Landmark anniversary to be celebrated in song HALF a century of performing will be marked by Thornbury Musical Theatre Group in a 50th anniversary celebration.

A concert called Fabulous at 50 will be held in the Armstrong Hall, with three performances of a medley of musical favourites.

They include many that have featured in musicals, pantomimes and concerts staged by the group over the years, re-mastered and orchestrated for the anniversary year.

The opening show takes place on Friday, May 18, at 7.30pm, with another evening performance the following night, as well as a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

All tickets cost £10 and group discounts are also available. They can be bought online via www.tmtg.org.uk or by phoning 07516 270140.

Tickets will also be available at Lisa Costa Residential Sales and Lettings at 53 High Street, Thornbury, from Saturday, April 14.

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n NEWS

April, 2018

Flowers and blossom Bringing people together to bloom for visitors for new social group to meadow judges.

The land is owned by South Gloucestershire Council but managed by a team of volunteers, who will be able to tell visitors how they manage the site for fruit production, beneficial bees, pollinators and other wildlife and for the enjoyment of the local community.

They will also be able to have a go at an Eye Spy-type hunt throughout the site.

The meadow and orchard are just off Gloucester Road, opposite the Anchor pub.

Visitors are welcome to take their own soft drinks and snacks along.

News! - Email us at contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

A NEW social group is about to start in Thornbury for people with learning disabilities.

Inspiration for the group has come from a young woman called Danielle, who lives in the town and wants to meet up with other people with learning difficulties for events and activities.

Through the South Gloucestershire project Curo Community Connectors, which helps to bring people together in order to meet local needs, the first meeting of the group has been planned.

It will start at 2pm on Friday, May 4, in the Hawkes House, St Mary Street.

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barbecues, creative writing sessions and craftwork.

Anyone interested in joining is welcome to go along to the first meeting.

Volunteers are also needed to help with the organising and running of the group and they should contact co-ordinator Sandy Corke on 07422 078549 for more details.

In the past 18 months more than 40 new groups have been started by Curo Community Connectors before becoming self-managing.

Anyone considering launching one should phone Hilary Jay on 07792 495367.

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SPRING blossom and flowers can be enjoyed during an open day at Thornbury’s community orchard.

The new event, organised by the Sustainable Thornbury Orchard Group, will also give visitors the chance to see the award winning Morton Bridge wildflower meadow.

The event takes place on Saturday, April 28, when families can go along any time between 10.30am and 3.30pm.

It is hoped they will see a display of apple and plum blossom, as well as spring flowers, in the orchard and see why the wildflower meadow so impressed South West in Bloom

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April, 2018

11

n NEWS

The Blues Band - 39 Years on the road and heading for Thornbury THE Blues Band is to appear at the Armstrong Hall in Thornbury on June 1 as they celebrate their 39th year together in 2018.

Band members Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend and Gary Fletcher are still pulling in audiences with their showmanship and virtuosity.

Many of the Blues Band’s younger fans weren’t born when these five musicians, already music industry veterans, decided to fly in the face of musical fashion in 1979 and form a band ‘just to play the blues’.

About 20 albums and thousands of gigs later, they’ve earned a reputation as one of the finest exponents of the blues tradition in all its forms.

To book tickets to their June concert, call Mark Lloyd on 07733 898762 or email marklloyd56@ virginmedia.com

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n MERLIN ADVERTISING FEATURE

Merlin customers scrutinise repairs Customers of a local housing association have begun investigating to see how it deals with their repairs calls.

calls, the scrutiny group will next be reviewing some recorded calls to see how staff responded to incoming repair queries.

Customer Roger Chillcott listening to incoming calls with Customer Service Advisor Leah Harvey

Seven Merlin customers are spending the next couple of months analysing how the association’s repairs service deals with all aspects of repairs; from the moment a customer makes a request, right up to the completion of the job. The project began last month with four customers spending the morning shadowing Merlin’s customer service team at its offices in Chipping Sodbury, listening to calls as they came in from customers and hearing how staff dealt with them.

One of the customers listening in was Roger Chillcot who said he was impressed with what he heard.

“The customer service advisors have got to handle so many different types of calls,” he said.

“I was very impressed by what I heard and came away feeling like I’d learned a lot.”

Having listened to live customer

Delphine Guilletmoeau, Customer Involvement Officer, said: “The second stage of the project will be looking at how we are carrying out the repairs. The scrutiny group will be going out with repairs staff to see them in action. This will give them the chance to get a real feel for their working environment and the pressures they are under.

“The customers will then follow up on the repairs they visited by contacting those customers later to ask them how they think we dealt with the repair.

Ultimately it’s about making sure that we’re delivering a right first time repairs service to customers and identifying any areas for improvement.”

Once the group has completed its report it will present it to Merlin’s Board later in the year.

New Wellbeing College courses will put a spring in your step From yoga to job clubs, dancing to computer skills the Wellbeing College offers free activities for everyone in South Gloucestershire.

The College offers free courses, drop-in sessions and activities throughout the year to improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing. Over the past year more than 1,000 people have taken part in activities, with 80% saying that they feel happier as a result and 70% have reduced anxiety.

The College is run by housing association Merlin as the lead, along with Southern Brooks and Kingsmeadow Flat.

Community Insight and Investment Officer Claire Willis said: “These activities are making a real difference in helping people to build and rebuild their lives.

Now, we’ve got lots of activities and events for people to get involved in over the next few months including some brand new sessions. If you’re looking for help to get a new job, we’ve got sessions to help you polish your CV and shine in interviews. There’s also yoga, tai chi and climbing activities for those looking to improve their physical health, while the knitting, cooking and gardening sessions will help bring out your creative side.”

For a full round-up of all the courses taking place over the coming weeks and months, check out the Wellbeing College website at www.sgwellbeingcollege.org

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n NEWS

Opera students enthrall in Cossham Hall concert

FOUR post graduate students from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama entertained an audience in Thornbury with their classically trained voices.

The opera students were led

by Thornbury educated singer Aaron Holmes and accompanied by pianist Emma Cayeux, who is also a graduate of the college.

Their performance in the Cossham Hall included pieces by composers ranging from Mozart to Cole Porter, Gounod, Puccini, Bizet and Offenbach.

Highlights included the mezzo soprano and soprano duet of Cristina Negoescu and

Margaret Daly with the Flower Duet from Delibes' Lakmé, as well as Huw Evans' version of the traditional Welsh song Calon Iân to the tune of Down by the Sally Garden.

Aaron Holmes also played Figaro in a version of Largo al factorum from Rossini's Barber of Seville.

They ended the concert with We open in Venice from Cole Porter's Kiss me Kate.

Proceeds from the concert went to phase one of the Armstrong Hall redevelopment project.

13

Banding together to fight cancer

Manorbrook School in Thornbury has raised £115 by selling wrist bands in the run up to World Cancer Day. Overall, the Thornbury and District Cancer Research UK Committee Members raised £1550 raised for Cancer Research UK.

Cancer charity lines up fundraising events TWO events are being planned to raise money for cancer research.

The Thornbury and District Cancer Research UK Committee are holding a concert in the Thornbury United Reform Church on Saturday 14 April.

“The Poets Quartet” will play various works by Dvorak, Bach, Elgar, and Massenet and also The Beatles.

Doors Open at 7pm, and drinks will be served during the

Interval.

They are also holding a coffee morning at the Alveston Methodist Church Hall on Wednesday 2nd May between 10am and 12midday.

There will be homemade cakes, jams, chutneys, used books, jewellery and crafts for sale.

Admission is £1.50 which also includes tea,coffee and biscuits.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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14

n NEWS

April, 2018

Appeal for witnesses New interpretation posts placed in the after stolen safe is dumped in Thornbury Forgotten Landscape POLICE are asking for information after a safe stolen in a shop burglary was found dumped behind Thornbury Leisure Centre.

The burglary happened between 5pm on Saturday 24 February and 8am Monday 26 February at the property in the High Street, Thornbury.

The safe was found near the clothes banks and the composting area at the leisure centre on Monday 12 March.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed any suspicious behaviour in that area in the past few days.

Anyone with any information which could help is asked to get in touch with police through their website, www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ contact, or by calling 101, quoting reference 5218043182.

A SERIES of interpretation posts have started to appear at locations along the lower Severn Vale levels.

Places such as Littleton-onSevern and Whale Wharf have so far had posts erected by the team involved in the Forgotten Landscape heritage project.

The project was established to conserve and improve the area that takes in the foreshore and coastal floodplain of the River Severn and includes villages such as Oldbury-on-Severn, Shepperdine and Hill.

Work on the posts continued during the winter, which not only included the text and design of them but also consulting on

locations with local communities and seeking the necessary permission needed before anything could go into the ground.

Installers then had to battle with sleet, hail and rain when the day arrived for the first posts to be installed.

A wide range of stories are told through the interpretation posts, ranging from the tragic tale of St Arilda to the history of the Windbound pub at Shepperdine.

Some of the locations for the posts will also feature toposcopes to give commanding views of the levels.

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thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n NEWS THE work of more than 60 artists will go on view at a series of studio and exhibition venues for the 2018 Severn Vale Art Trail.

Well supported by visitors, the trail will this year include two new locations on top of many established venues in Thornbury and a number of other towns and villages.

Those running the Jenner Museum in Berkeley were keen to be involved, while the Oldwood Pits site in Rangeworthy is also included for the first time.

By Gill Meadows.

15

On the trail of artists as popular event gets ready to open Painters Judith Pemberton-Bennetts and Angela Scriven, along with textile artist Pauline Chidlaw, will have their work featured at the museum, with the pits hosting a group of basket makers, a painter and a woodcarver.

The trail is part of Thornbury Arts Festival and will run from May 4-13 once the main festival has ended.

There will be ten group exhibition venues open to visitors while the trail is running, together with many individual artists’ studios.

Trail followers will see a wide variety of artistic skills, from jewellery making and pottery to pen and ink geometric drawings, painting and photography.

Members of Krunch youth club will also show artwork at Thornbury’s skatepark.

To get a glimpse of the work to be seen, a showcase exhibition will run in Thornbury Town Hall from April 20-28.

Art trail brochures are available from the town hall and numerous outlets in Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire.

People can also visit www. thornburyartsfestival.com/arttrail to see a virtual gallery.

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16

April, 2018

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Tree planted in memory of Lions Club founder member A FORMER president of Thornbury Lions Club has been remembered through the planting of a tree in the town.

Bob Chaskin, who died recently, was a founder member of the club and he held the post of president on three occasions in 1993, 2007 and 2008.

He also played a major role in establishing what is now the club’s second hand book shop.

In the project’s early days, Mr Chaskin arranged for a trailer to be positioned in the St Mary Centre for the club to use on Saturday mornings.

He went on to negotiate with the centre management the use of an empty shop, leading to the development of the bookshop which has now become the club’s main fund raising activity.

Through its sales, the club has been able to make donations to a large number of charities and organisations.

The club said Mr Chaskin was a “very popular and prominent member” of the organisation.

It said: “We miss Bob’s presence but his legacy constantly reminds us of him and Bob’s wife, June, still helps with various activities within the club.

“The Lions would like to thank Judith Hurford, the Thornbury tree warden, for her help in organising the planting.

Picture: June Chaskin and members of Thornbury Lions at the ceremony to plant a tree in memory of Bob Chaskin.

Thornbury Lions young ambassador finalist Call us on 01454 262818

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CASTLE School sixth former Laura Woodman was runnerup in the national final of a prestigious award scheme run

by Lions clubs.

Laura reached the final after winning a district stage of the Lions Young Ambassador of the 21st Century Award, which recognises voluntary work in candidates’ local community organisations.

The teenager was nominated by Thornbury Lions and she had to give a presentation about her volunteering work to judges at both the district award stage and the final phase of the competition, which was held in Dudley, West Midlands.

She received her award from the mayor of Dudley, Dave Tyler, and Lion Balvinder Singh Sokhi, chairman of the Council of Governors for Lions Multiple District 105.

By reaching the final, Laura also received a bursary of £500 to help her chosen organisations - Incredible Kids and Little Acorns Nursery.

Laura volunteers at both,

Laura Woodman with Dudley mayor Dave Tyler and Lion Balvinder Singh Sokhi helping children develop social skills at Incredible Kids, which is a day care centre for children with a wide range of disabilities, and at the nursery, where she helps with child development.

She is also a member of Thornbury Sea Cadets and is currently working towards her gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, having already achieved her bronze award.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

17

n NEWS

Comedian’s opening arts festival show a sell-out THE opening night of this year’s Thornbury Arts Festival is already a sell-out, with all tickets for comedian Jeremy Hardy snapped up and a waiting list launched.

Events featuring Baroness Shirley Williams, who has just retired from the House of Lords after 50 years in politics, and TV wildlife presenter Simon King are also proving popular.

Despite box office venues at the town hall and library yet to open from early April, festival-goers have been able to go online, as well as apply by post, for tickets since the start of February.

It has allowed organisers to meet the expected early high demand for a number of events in the festival, which starts on Friday, April 20, and continues for nine days.

It features a range of entertainment from music and drama to cinema and lunchtime talks, with a show by The Swinging Rascals - described as a 21st century Rat Pack act with an 11-piece live band - set to bring the event to a foot-tapping close.

Two of Thornbury’s own stars will be made especially welcome when TV food show producer Andy Clarke and Paralympian Kate Grey return to the town.

Andy has worked on high profile programmes such as Blue Peter and Saturday Kitchen for BBC1, James Martin’s French Adventure and James Martin’s American Adventure for ITV, as well as Richard and Judy on Channel 4.

Kate became a Paralympic swimmer who represeted GB for ten years and took part in the 2008 Beijing Paralympics. She went on to become a broadcaster and was part

of the broadcasting team covering the recent Winter Olympics.

On the drama front, the critically acclaimed Jane Eyre: an Autobiography will be performed

by Rebecca Vaughan, while a wide range of music on offer comes courtesy of the Remi Harris Trio - gypsy swing, jazz and blues - the baroque ensemble Passacaglia and prize-winning flute and guitar duo Icaris.

Passacaglia has appeared at top venues such as London’s Wigmore Hall and Southbank, has toured internationally and featured on many BBC and worldwide radio broadcasts.

Icaris comprises Vicky Guise and Will Browne, who completed their masters degrees at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and were artists in residence at the 2017 Cardiff Guitar Festival.

Visit www.thornburyartsfestival. com for details of the performances and how to buy tickets. Brochures have also been distributed in Thornbury and surrounding areas.

Food Festival promises dishes from around the world THE first South Glos Food & Drink Festival is promising an array of cuisines when it debuts at the Bristol and Bath Science Park in May. The free event on May 19 and 20 says dishes from Indian to Italian and Jamaican to British will be available along with pop up bars serving everything from artisan gin to locally produced cider.

The event also has of Webber barbecue demonstrations, a craft area and live acoustic music.

The organisers have also promised a big screen to watch the royal wedding on 19 May.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

18

n LITERARY FESTIVAL

thornburyvoice

Thornbury Voice is pleased to be the media partner of the Cotswold Edge Literary festival. We will be bringing you the latest news ahead of the week long event from June 16 - 24.

This month we highlight some of the big, and not so big, names that will be in South Gloucestershire for the event

Susan Lewis Best selling author SUSAN Lewis lives in South Gloucestershire and is a prolific - and best selling - author. She might have been born in Bristol and is enjoying life back in the area now, but in-between life was a roller coaster ride played out in the south of France and California. She’s the author of almost 50 books, including two memoirs.

Saturday June 16 High tea and chat with Susan Lewis. Hampton’s Deli, High Street, Chipping Sodbury at 3.30 and 5.30pm. Tickets £8.50 (includes tea and cake) Susan Lewis was born in 1956, in Bristol.

My father was a Welsh miner, a poet, an engineer and a thinker. My mother was one of

13 children who, at 20, persuaded my father to spend his bonus on an engagement ring instead of a motorbike. We were a normal, happy, nuclear family, living in a spanking new council house on the outskirts of town – my mother’s pride and joy.

I was 9 and my brother 5 when my mother died of cancer.

She was 33, my father was 37, and he never married again.

I went to the boarding school,

Sathnam Sanghera Author of ‘The Boy With The Top Knot’ and Times journalist SATHNAM Sanghera is perhaps best known for his best selling novel, The Boy With The Top Knot, an account of growing up as the son of Punjabi parents in Wolverhampton. It was recently made into a BBC film. Sathnam has also written the critically acclaimed Marriage Material, and you can find his writing more regularly in The Times newspaper.

Saturday 23 June Chipping Sodbury Baptist Church, High Street Chipping Sodbury. 7.30 pm (Doors open at 7pm) Tickets: £10.50.

Sathnam Sanghera was born

to Punjabi parents in the West Midlands in 1976, attended Wolverhampton Grammar School and graduated from Christ's College, Cambridge with a first class degree in English Language and Literature in 1998.

His first book, The Boy With The Topknot: A Memoir of Love, Secrets and Lies in Wolverhampton, published by Penguin, was shortlisted for the

The Cotswold Edge Literary Festival is supported by our partners:

The Olympus Academy Trust, Thornbury Voice, Willow Brook Centre

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April, 2018

Cotswold Edge L I T E R A R Y F E S T I VA L

a rogue little pupil in amongst all the posh girls, with their plummy voices, rich parents and exotic tales of faraway places. I yearned for my mother and father, but it was for the best, I was told. I took it upon myself to get expelled. It took a while, and I had rather a fabulous time achieving it When I was 18 I got a job at HTV in Bristol, and at 22 I moved to London to work for Thames.

I began as a secretary in news and current affairs, then trained as a production assistant and moved on to light entertainment and drama. It was a love of drama, combined with a fierce ambition, that got me knocking on the Controller’s door to ask what steps to take to become a producer. “Oh, go away and write something,” came the reply. So I did.

2008 Costa Biography Award, the 2009 PEN/Ackerley Prize and named 2009 Mind Book of the Year. Sathnam’s first novel, Marriage Material was been picked by Waterstones as one of the fiction debuts of 2013.

Before becoming a writer Sathnam (among other things) worked at a burger chain, a hospital laundry, a market research firm, a sewing factory and a literacy project in New York.

Between 1998 and 2006 he was at The Financial Times, where he worked (variously) as a news reporter in the UK and the US, specialised in writing about the media industries, worked across the paper as Chief Feature Writer, and wrote a weekly column.

Sathnam joined The Times as a columnist and feature writer in 2007 and also reviews cars for Management Today magazine.

Will Self Author, journalist, Broadcaster

WILL Self has had a long, distinguished and sometimes controversial career. His output is prolific, not only in novels and short stories, but also in magazine and newspaper writing. He’s also a regular broadcaster on radio and television. We are delighted to welcome him to our first literary festival.

Wednesday 20 June Bristol and Bath Science Park, Dirac Crescent, Emersons Green, Bristol BS16 7FR. 7pm to 9pm (doors open 6pm), Tickets £10.50.

Will Self is the author of many novels and books of non-fiction, including Great Apes, The Book of Dave, How the Dead Live, which was shortlisted for the Whitbread Novel of the Year 2002, The Butt, winner of the Bollinger Everyman Wodehouse Prize for Comic Fiction 2008, Umbrella, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2012, and Shark.

His fiction has been translated into more than 22 languages. He is a regular broadcaster and is Professor of Contemporary Thought at Brunel University. He lives in South London.

thornburyvoice Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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April, 2018

19

n LITERARY FESTIVAL Want to be a writer?

Local writer workshop with Ali Bacon

Tristan Darby Drinking in a good book

An evening of books and beverages with Tristan Darby.

Thursday 21 June Venue TBC FROM sherry in Shakespeare to fine wines in modern classics, drinks have always had a place in literature. Our evening is hosted by a man who knows both subjects inside out. Tristan Darby is the owner of the Bristol Wine School, but he’s also an actor who also the drinks columnists for local magazines. Enjoy an evening of readings from famous texts, paired with tasting the drinks described in the book.

Tristan Darby has experience spanning over 20 years in the catering, hospitality and wine trade - interspersed with time touring as a professional actor and singer.

Tristan is drinks columnist for The Bath Magazine and The Bristol Magazine, and is a judge for both the Bristol and Bath Good Food Awards.

He no longer acts but promises to incorporate as much theatre as he can into the evening of tasting. However, he still sings, and can occasionally be found gigging with his jazz and blues quartet.

Tristan has earned a great reputation for educational but unstuffy wine courses and wine tastings he delivers, so expect to feel welcome, have fun, meet new people and learn something new in relaxed and friendly surroundings.

AF Harrold Children’s author and poet.

We are delighted that AF Harrold is coming to our literary festival.

AF will be holding an event for primary schools children in the afternoon, but adults can enjoy his poetry, and his humour, at Winterbourne Academy in the evening.

Wednesday 20 June Winterbourne Academy 7.00 (Doors open at 6.30pm) Tickets £5 A.F. Harrold writes and performs for adults and children.

He is the owner of many books, a handful of hats, a few good

ideas and one beard. He spends his time showing off on stage, writing poems and books, and stroking his beard (it helps churn

If you’ve always wanted to be a writer, and feel you have stories to tell, come and find out how a panel of local writers realised their dream. Ali Bacon has been writing full time for a decade and knows what it takes to get published. She will head a group of local writers who will tell their story and answer your questions.

Yate Library, Yate Shopping Centre Friday 22 June 6.30pm to 8.30pm (Doors open 6pm) Ticket Price: £4.50 Ali Bacon was born in Fife and graduated from St Andrews University. She worked briefly in Oxford before qualifying as an academic librarian before moving to the Bristol area where she has lived ever since with her husband and (now grown-up) family.

Ali has been writing fulltime for more than ten years and her very first novel won a prize in the A&C Black novel competition. Since then she has been exploring her Scottish roots, first of all with A Kettle

the ideas). He lives in Reading with a stand-up comedian and two cats.

The basic biography goes like this: (1) Born in Sussex in 1975, did childhood things.

Started writing poetry. (2) Went to university in Reading in the early 1990s, did student things.

Continued writing poetry.

(3) Got a job in a Blackwell's bookshop in the late 1990s, did work things. Started taking part in poetry slams. (4) Became a full-time poet when the bookshop was shut down in the early 2000s, did jobbing-poet things. Started winning (some) poetry slams. (5) Ran some poetry workshops in schools in the late 2000s, did more jobbing-poet things. Started

of Fish, published in 2012, a contemporary novel set in her home town of Dunfermline, and now with In the Blink of an Eye, which takes place in Victorian Fife and Edinburgh.

(Due to be published in April 2018) Ali also writes short fiction in a variety of genres and she enjoys performing her work at local live events. She is a member of Writers Unchained of Bristol and has helped judge the highly regarded Stroud Short Stories event.

Her short fiction has been listed in competitions and published in several anthologies.

In 2017 she won the Evesham Festival of Words Adult Short Story Competition with The Bird of Wax which forms part of In the Blink of an Eye.

writing poems and stories for kids. (6) First children's novel published by Bloomsbury in the early 2010s, did more of that stuff. Pottered and loafed. (7) Repeat stage (6).

Although AFH doesn't do so many events for grown ups these days, he still tends to go where he's invited (if the money is right), faces the direction he's asked to face and reads poems for the correct length of time. Sometimes he talks more than he poems.

Sometimes he sings a song(ish) instead of talking. Sometimes he is funny. Sometimes he is serious. Sometimes he dances.

Sometimes he shows pictures of his cats.

For more information and to reserve tickets: contact@cotswoldedgeevents.co.uk or call Mark Lloyd on 07733 898762 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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thornburyvoice

n NEWS

Easter fun at bank holiday event YATE’S Kingsgate Park is to host its annual Easter Egg Extravaganza on Easter Monday, 2 April.

The event, which starts at 10am, is organised by the Friends of Kingsgate Park and Yate Town Council. It’s open to all children under 12 years and entrance is free. A separate hunt area within the park caters for children aged 5 and under.

Each child completing the treasure hunt will receive a chocolate Easter egg.

The event also includes an Easter bonnet parade that takes place at 11.00 am (registration deadline is 10.55)

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

21

Youth leadership course open to Thornbury teenagers YOUNG people who want to challenge themselves and boost their personal and leadership skills have the chance to join a course being offered by Thornbury Rotary Club.

The all-expenses Rotary Youth Leadership Awards course is open to those aged 16-18 and takes place in the Forest of Dean in the summer.

It will involve some 40 students from across greater Bristol and Gloucestershire, with the Thornbury club able to offer places to two people from its area.

Those taking part will tackle a series of challenging, practical and theoretical tasks through teamwork.

Although it is not an outdoor adventure programme, activities do include a ropes course, canoeing, climbing and orienteering.

The challenges, backed up by theory, are used to give participants opportunities to put their learning into practice in a safe and supportive environment.

The course is open to those with a reasonable level of physical fitness and will be run by professional tutors.

Anyone interested should email guy.rawlinson@ blueyonder.co.uk for more information.

The deadline for expressions of interest is April 30.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

22

nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA March 28 n 7-30pm Alveston Methodist Church, Greenhill. The 18th century Naval Cook with Ed Boreham.

Visitors welcome £2-50 at the door.

April 9 n Bristol Budgerigar Society.

Monday April 9 commencing 7.30pm. Experienced champion breeder and exhibitor Bob Allen will describe how he treats occasional sick budgerigars in his stud and some basic routine preventative medication that he employs. Temporary venue while local council are carrying out extensive alterations to our usual venue: The Methodist Hall, Down Road, Winterbourne Down, Bristol BS36 1BN. Visitors welcome to join us without commitment to join. Further details from the Secretary Colin Parsons. Tel 01454 775878. colinpauline@hotmail. com or Chairman Alan Fretten.

Mobile 07922538894 E-mail alan_ fretten13@hotmail.com April 10 n 'Bulgarian Steam Extravaganza’ presented by Dave Winter. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RG. Tuesday 10th April 7:30 for 7:45 pm. The meeting is open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is

thornburyvoice

appreciated. Contact: Dave Winter 01454 324230.

April 10 n Sunbeams: a new kind of interactive hands on toddler parent/carer group Starting 10th April 2018 Tuesday afternoons (in term time) 1.15pm to 2.45pm Thornbury Methodist church hall. > Cost £2 per family including drink and snacks Fun sensory activities, exploring and learning together. To learn more please ring 07742455505 or email janet_ mann@hotmail.com; 07761976596 or email margaretcrocombe60@ gmail.com.

April 10 n 7.30pm - Chipping Sodbury Town Hall - Dominic Alldis Jazz Trio Tickets available from:https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/csmusicsociety April 19 n South Glos Design and Fine Art Society. We meet at Bradley Stoke Community School, Fiddlers Wood Lane. BS32 7BS. Thursday April 19th 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Dr Steve Kershaw Lecture will be about “The New Ashmolean. Collection.”

Newcomers will be our guests at this Lecture.

April 15 n Raise money for your chosen charity with Zumbathon. This year’s

April, 2018

event takes place between 10am and 1pm on Sunday 15 April at Castle School. If you would like to take part, please go to www. zumbathornbury.com to register.

April 25 n Steve Poole talking about the Somerset and Bristol Food Riots 7-30pm, Alveston Methodist Church. Visitors welcome. £2-50 at the door.

April 26 n Avon Organic Group. The local group for everyone interested in organic growing and organic foods. Talk (re-arranged). “Feed Bristol: Conservation and ecology in a food growing setting”. Matt Cracknell, Feed Bristol manager, will show us how food growers can create places where people and wildlife thrive. Thursday, 26th April 2018, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. All welcome.

Visitors £5 / AOG Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com June 3 n Laser Run Championships being put on by PentathlonGB South West at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex BS37 7LB on Sunday 3 June. Including all age groups from 8 to 60+ Contact Philip Hobbs

We would love to publicise your event Send details of your events and activities in the following format:

WHAT IT IS WHERE IT IS WHEN IT IS in no more than 40 words: email us at: contact@thornburyvoice. co.uk prhcoaching@outlook.com if Laser Pistol training is required. Entry details can be found at https:// www.pentathlongb.org/events/ list/competition/laser_run June 30 n Armed Forces Day in Thornbury The 2018 Armed Forces Day will be held in Thornbury on Saturday 30th June 2018. This year the country will commemorate the Centenary of the ending of the First World War. As well as the parade through the town there will

What's on at Thornbury Library Opening Times Monday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

9.30 - 17.30 9.30 - 17.30 9.30 - 17.30 9.30 - 17.30 9:30 – 12:30

Like Us On Facebook www.facebook.com/ sgloslibraries Follow Us On Twitter @SouthGlosLibs StoryTime and RhymeTime for babies and pre-schoolers (Term Time Only).

Storytime Mondays 2.15pm – 2.45pm.

Rhymetime Fridays 10.30am -11.00am. Most suitable for ages 0-4 years, all activities free of charge, no booking required.

Craft & Chat First Thursday of the month 2pm - 4pm. A chance for people who love crafting to get together and share inspiration. No charge and no booking required. Just turn up and bring your craft project with you. New faces welcome!

Computer Support Volunteers Drop-in without an appointment on Monday mornings 10-12 to see Mike, our computer volunteer who can help with quick enquiries.

If you need more intensive support, book in to see our computer volunteer Chris on Thursday mornings at 9.30, 10.30 or 11.30. Sessions with Chris must be booked in advance – enquire

in person at Thornbury Library or email thornbury.library@ southglos.gov.uk.

Wi-fi and Studying Did you know we have free wi-fi and study spaces and we also have the resource Access to Research - academic articles online.

New resources available for creative sessions with groups South Gloucestershire Libraries is delighted to announce a new resource, An Adventurer’s Companion, is now available through its library network and online at www.creativelibraries. org.uk. An Adventurer’s Companion is designed to inspire anyone working with a group to help them explore their creativity

in new and surprising ways and is particularly aimed at those supporting participants with low mood, depression or dementia.

The Adventurer's Companion is presented as a travelling companion - a bespoke suitcase of exercises, resources, ideas and inspiration drawn from the project developed by artist, Liz Clarke. It is accompanied by a website www.creativelibraries. org.uk where you can recreate the activities yourself and embark on your own journeys and adventures. The Adventurer’s Companion is available for loan from all South Gloucestershire libraries and the website is accessible to anyone.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

28 thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA be a wide variety of stalls, stands and activities for all ages on the Chantry field. The event is free . http://www.mythornbury.co.uk/ thornbury/armed-forces-day

Haven Memory Cafe

Thornbury United Reformed Church n 10.15 - 11.45am Friday 6th April: Beetle Game, Barbara Goom n 10.15 - 11.45am Friday 20th April: Just Lizzie- Singing with Lizzie Lindsey

Regular events

Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7-10pm n Bristol Budgerigar Society.

Temporary venue while local council are carrying out extensive alterations to our usual venue: The Methodist Hall, Down Road, Winterbourne Down, Bristol BS36 1BN. Meetings commence at 7.30pm on the second Monday of each month. Chairman Alan Fretten. Mobile 07922538894 E-mail alan_fretten13@hotmail. com Details from the Secretary Colin Parsons Tel 01454 775878.

E-mail colinpauline@hotmail. com Membership; Adult £7.00, senior £5.00, same address partners £10.00, different address partners appropriate single rate each. Juniors free. Visitors always welcome without commitment or charge to see the wonderful budgerigar breeding, exhibition and social experience that Bristol Budgerigar Society can offer.

The Arts Society Severn Valley

We meet in the Town Hall in Chipping Sodbury on the third Monday of each month. n 16 April 2018, Dandy and Artist: The Life and Works of James MacNeill Whistler n 21 May 2018, The Horse and Modern Art from George Stubbs to Mark Wallinger n 18 June 2018, The Cult of Glorianna: Art, Music and

Personality at the Court of the Virgin Queen. Visitors are £6 www.svdfas.co.uk.

Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club n 6pm Zumba at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com n 7pm Zumba Toning at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com n 8pm Yoga-Lattes at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes n Wednesdays Bellydance Classes with SachaFrom 7.30pm . Contact Sacha on 07971 578151 or email sachabellydance@yahoo.co.uk for full details. Ridgewood Community Association, Yate BS37 4AF Thursday n 8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only).

01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com n1.30pm Zumba Gold at Thornbury Leisure Centre Saturday n 10am STRONG by Zumba at the New Sports Complex, Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com n Thornbury parkrun is a free, weekly, 5km run or walk, organised entirely by volunteers and taking place every Saturday at 9am on the Mundy Playing Fields. Register once, print your barcode and just turn up. See www.parkrun.org.uk/ thornbury” Sunday n Thornbury Ramblers walk. See www.thornburyramblers.org.uk for details, or ring 01454 413924 n 10.30am Zumba at the New Sports Complex, Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com

Read Thornbury Voice online

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2017 Issue 4

Thornbury Self Storage

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Campaign group joins opposition to proposed housing estate COUNTRYSIDE campaigners have added their voice to opposition against the latest large-scale housing plan for Thornbury.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has submitted an objection to the plan by Bovis Homes to build up to 370 homes on the north side of the town off Gloucester Road.

If the outline scheme is approved, it will extend housing out of the town towards the A38 across nearly 60 acres of agricultural land from Upper Morton to Crossways Lane at The Knapp.

It will also add even more homes to the many hundreds already built recently or which have been granted planning permission.

A large number of objections to the plan have been posted with South Gloucestershire Council, including from the residents action group TRAPP’D and the CPRE, as well as individual residents of the town.

The CPRE said the Bovis site, alongside the B4061, had not been identified in the local core strategy. Full story page 3.

Green light for homes on council office site Go ahead given for retirement complex on Castle Street PAGE 2

Big dig gets underway in Oldbury Work starts at Iron Age camp PAGE 5

Pieces fall into place for Jigsaw Charity moves into new Thornbury HQ PAGE 8

In the swing Having a blast: Firefighters in Thornbury sign up some young recruits.

Find out more in our community news, Page 7.

www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

Tennis club enjoys a good start to the season PAGE 30

23 thornburyvo

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LUKE HALL MP MP for Thornbury, Yate and the surrounding villages

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Write to Luke at: Luke Hall MP, 26 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH e: luke.hall.mp@parliament.uk w: lukehall.org.uk Promoted by Luke Hall MP, House of Commons, SW1A 0AA.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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Email:contact contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk To advertise, Richard on 01454 800 120

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thornburyvoice

24

n RECIPE

April, 2018

At Easter time - try a biscuit THIS month’s recipe is one that traditionally were sold at fairs for a treat, particularly for sweethearts.

There are many recipes for these Cornish ginger and spice biscuits. My ones are thin and crisp.

Perfect for having with a cup of tea or even for dunking. So, if you are visiting friends or family over the

Easter break, why not make a batch of these. Your homemade biscuits prettily wrapped with an Easter bow will go down a treat.

Cornish Fairings Makes about 20 medium sized

biscuits depending on how big you make the balls of dough Ingredients • Plain flour – 250g (8 oz) • Caster sugar- 125g (4oz) • 2tsps bicarbonate of soda • 2 tsps baking powder • 3 tsps ground ginger- heaped if like me you like spice, level if you like it milder • 2tsps mixed spice- as above • 1tsp ground cinnamon -as above • Good pinch of salt • Unsalted butter- 125g (4oz) • Golden syrup- 4 level tablespoons PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 180 C, Fan 170C , GAS MARK 4

The Blues Band H IN CONCERT H Armstrong Hall , Thornbury Friday 1st June 2018 - 7.30pm

Here’s what you do: 1. First prepare your baking trays.

Line 2 very large trays, or 4 small ones with non-stick baking parchment. I use 18”(46 cm) x16”(41cm)trays which will take 6 biscuits.

2. Place all the dry ingredients in a food mixer or processor and give them a pulse. If you don’t have a processor, don’t worry, just sift all the ingredients together into a large bowl.

3. Rub in the butter until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs.

4. Using a metal tablespoon, dip it in boiling water before measuring. (This makes it easier to work with.) Measure the syrup into the dry ingredients and work it in thoroughly. You will have a fairly soft dough.

5. Put a little flour on your hands.

Take teaspoons of the dough and lightly roll into balls.

6. Place on your lined baking trays.

Make sure you have left a lot of space around each biscuit,

Ann Murray is from the Cooking4 Cookery School based in Chipping Sodbury.

She’s teamed up with Thornbury Voice to pass on her wealth of experience in the kitchen.

otherwise the mixture will fuse together into a single sheet. As they cook the balls will flatten themselves.

7. Bake in the pre-heated oven on the middle shelf for 5mins or until they begin to go brown.

Then transfer them to the bottom shelf bottom of the oven for a further 5-10 mins or until they are a golden brown all over.

8. At this point they may feel a little soft to the touch. Remove the tray from the oven and leave for 5 mins to firm up. Test one biscuit- they should be crisp and have a good “snap” when broken in half.

9. Transfer to a cooling tray. Store in an airtight tin.

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Mel Wilkinson 0755 397 6342 email: melwil08@gmail.com www.counsellingmelwilks.co.uk

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

AUOPE TU NIN MN G 20 IN 18

STOKE GIFFORD RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Later life.

Why wait – enjoy it now!

A remarkable new village is opening in Stoke Gifford.

If you’re 55 or over, you’ll find so much here to help you get the most out of later life, with 261 affordable new one and two bedroom apartments available for purchase, rental and shared ownership. Homes are light, comfortable and spacious, equipped with the latest safety and security features. Built around a host of high quality social and leisure facilities, they include a gym, bar, bistro, shop, hair and beauty salon, village hall, hobby room, IT suite and library, and a greenhouse. Imagine what a wonderful opportunity this is to remain active and independent for longer, discovering hidden talents and learning new skill amongst friends and neighbours.

Village Show Homes Open for viewing - Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm.

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Off Coldharbour Lane, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS16 1EJ For more information please call 0117 321 6632 or email stokegifford@extracare.org.uk or online at www.stokegiffordvillage.co.uk

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

StokeGiffordVillage

Charges will apply. Details of any costs associated with your home, care and village services will be provided as part of your application. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, registered charity number 327816, is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales as company number 2205136. Its registered office is at 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN. Copyright © 2018 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust.

thornburyvoice

26

April, 2018

n THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM The Grace cricketing brothers WHEN the Orders of St John Care Trust looked for a name for its recently opened dementia and nursing care complex in Thornbury, it chose to honour the local Grace cricketing family.

Of five brothers born to Dr HM and Mrs Martha Grace in the 19th century, William Gilbert - better known as WG Grace - is the most famous.

But all of his brothers were talented players, with the family’s close association with Thornbury Cricket Club starting in 1871 when it was founded by Dr Edward Mills Grace, brother number three and known as EM. In fact, over a period of 100 years, a total of 24 family members played for the club - 11 of them doctors.

In its early days, the club played in a field next to EM’s Thornbury home, Park House, and after it moved to the Ship ground in Alveston in 1872, the

field continued to be used for practice sessions.

Meanwhile, the Ship ground remains the club’s base and it has seen cricket played every season since, except for a short time during the First World War. EM Grace, dubbed the Little Doctor to distinguish him from the younger and taller WG, was the driving force behind the club and records show that he was occasionally joined in the Thornbury team not only by WG but also their youngest brother, Fred. The trio also had the distinction of playing in the first Test Match in this country at the Oval against Australia in 1880.

According to WG, Fred would have been the best of the cricketing siblings if his life hadn’t been cut short.

Like his brothers, he studied medicine and helped in his father’s practice at Downend.

Considered an excellent allrounder, a catch he made in that 1880 Test Match is still regarded as the best ever.

But within a fortnight, he died from pneumonia after sleeping,

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Please feel free to call us during office hours on 0800 019 4557 or email us at info@elm-online. co.uk

Standard single or pair of mirrored Wills £99 To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

it is claimed, in a damp bed in a Gloucester hotel after a game in Stroud.

The eldest of the brothers was Henry, who played for Thornbury on several occasions and made his name at Lord’s in a match between the MCC and South Wales.

A popular doctor in Kingswood, his best cricket was played before Gloucestershire County Cricket Club was established.

Second brother Alfred was said to be a better cricketer than records show. He captained Chipping Sodbury for several years and played frequently for Thornbury, scoring several centuries.

Middle son EM first played in first-class cricket in 1854 when, at just 13, he was summoned from school at Long Ashton to play against the All England XI in Bristol.

Between 1860 and 1866, he was acknowledged to be the best all-round cricketer in the world and even in his 40th year was

selected for the 1880 Oval Test Match.

He was also a conscientious churchgoer and Sunday observer, didn’t smoke and was highly regarded by his patients and friends.

WG was born in 1848 and it is claimed he grew to 6ft 2ins due to being confined to bed with pneumonia and rheumatic fever when 16.

He made his first appearance at Lord’s at 17 and two years later surpassed EM to become the world’s most famous cricketer.

In 1901 he took up bowls and instituted international matches, captaining the English team for six years. He also took up golf and soon played with a handicap of 18.

He is commemorated at Lord’s by a pair of gates, known as the Grace Gates.

Information and picture of EM Grace supplied by members of the research group at Thornbury and District Museum.

Let us know your community news

email us at contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

FREE day trips for the over fifties If you are over fifty and want to discover exciting new attractions as well as meet new friends, then SGS College has the course for you.

Locations and dates available:

Held over a weekend, the Discover course will allow you to explore different locations and gain a qualification in English at the same time. The real fun begins on a Sunday, when you and your peers will be driven by coach to one of the exciting venues around the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur or a green-fingered gardener, you will find an experience that is right for you.

• Ashmolean Museum, Oxford - 14th/15th April

Booking is essential, as there are a limited number of places.

FREE COURSE AND DAY TRIP

• Longleat, Wiltshire - 24th/25th March

• Exeter Food and Drink Festival, Exeter - 5th/6th May • Malvern Spring Festival, Worcestershire - 12th/13th May • Stratford-upon-Avon/Warwick Castle - 16th/17th June • All Aboard! Watersports Centre, Bristol - 7th/8th July For further information please visit www.sgscol.ac.uk/discover or contact Sarah Kopera on 0117 909 2327

50+ W OF L EEKEN D EAR DISC NING, O AND VERY TRA VEL

28

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n POLICE BLOG

PC Natalie Jones CALLS about anti-social behaviour (ASB) on the beat have reduced from last summer’s peak, but we know that this issue tends to increase in warmer weather and during school holidays.

We’re still getting calls about problems including teenagers kicking bins over, being noisy and abusive, climbing onto the roofs of buildings, underage drinking and throwing things at houses.

We’re working with other agencies and

n NEWS have offered advice and support in making some of the locations which have been affected less open to misuse.

As we’ve explained before ASB covers a wide range of issues including noisy neighbours, inconsiderate vehicle use, littering, damage and rowdy or drunken behaviour.

Because of this we, South Gloucestershire Council and housing providers all have powers to deal with different aspects of it, and we work closely together in order to make sure we can all enjoy our community spaces and feel safe in our homes.

We always need evidence to take action, so please report issues as they happen, with as much information about the person responsible as you can give. Although we might not always be able to attend immediately, we can build a picture of what’s happening, where and when, enabling us to target our response and bid for resources.

You can download an incident diary and find more information on reporting ASB from www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or www. southglos.gov.uk Young people often get blamed for ASB. We’re continuing to tackle those who cause issues, but remember most just want to meet their friends. Parents and carers can help to keep their children safe and out of trouble by making sure they know where they are and who they’re with.

Thornbury Volunteer Centre A NEW Learning Disabilities Social Group is being set-up in Thornbury from May 4th. Its aim is to provide a social network for people with learning disabilities between the ages of 20-40 years. The group hopes to include activities such as walking, barbecues, trips, craft, creative writing or similar. A volunteer Facilitator is needed to help run the weekly sessions, organise the activities, listen to the ideas of the group, make suggestions and ideas for future meetings and be responsible for the smooth running of the group.

This role can be shared with another person or group of people.

Alexandra Way Care Home is seeking activity helpers who are able to give their time to residents’ activities. This may be one to one (jigsaws, crosswords, trips out), in a group running or assisting an activity or even preparing objects and materials for games and events. Whatever you enjoy, there will be something for you to enjoy helping with or a person to enjoy spending time with.

For further information please contact Thornbury Volunteer Centre on 01454 413392 or mail@volunteer-thornbury. co.uk

First partners unveiled for Literary Festival THE first sponsorship deals have been announced for the Cotswold Edge Literary Festival.

The Olympus Academy Trust and the Willow Brook Shopping Centre are both backing the week long event in June.

The Olympus Academy Trust, which has just taken over the running of Winterbourne International Academy, also runs several other schools in South Gloucestershire, including Bradley Stoke Community School.

As part of the link up. WIA will be hosting

Cotswold Edge L I T E R A R Y F E S T I VA L

an event for primary schools in the area with children’s writer AF Harold.

The Willow Brook Centre has also become a partner to the literary festival, and will be supporting events during the week. The

centre manager, Andy Wynn said; “this is an exciting new venture and we are more than happy to add our support to the literary festival”.

Karen McGeochwww.filton-central-garage.co.uk and Rod Undy with Peter Corfield (centre)

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

29

n NEWS

Zumba fans get ready for charity challenge ORGANISERS of an annual Zumbathon that has raised over £10000 since it started in 2014 are hoping for a record turnout.

The event, at Castle School in Thornbury, has become a popular event and raised £2280 in 2017. £900 of that was donated to Ezzy’s Wish to Walk campaign, with other charities to benefit including GAIN, The Teenage Cancer Trust, Crohns & Colitis,

Zumba Fitness particpants

See rever the se for

FREE c VOUc LASS HER ExciTiNG NEWS!!! Now it’s even easier and affordable to get fit, meet new friends and have fun!!!

We have teamed up with MoveGB so now you can pay as little as £10.49 per week and can attend up to 7 sessions with us a week, or any other provider.

To attend a class with us you must book up with www.moveGb.com and also on www.zumbathornbury.com as usual.

Check out all the classes you can do at www.movegb.com Sun 10.30am Zumba® at New Sports Complex

money for. We find people make a bigger effort when they can choose their own charity.”

This year’s event takes place between 10am and 1pm on Sunday 15 April at Castle School. If you would like to take part, please go to www.zumbathornbury.com to register.

From high energy work outs to gentle core exercises, we’ve got something for everyone at Zumba Thornbury!

Zumba® Fitness: a contagious, calorie burning and super fun dance class featuring movements originally inspired by various styles of Latin American dances using Latin American and World dance music.

Strong by ZumbaTM: a High Intensity Interval Training class using traditional fitness moves for an athletic, conditioning-style workout. Use your body weight as resistance to achieve muscle definition.

Yoga-Lattes: the best stretches from Yoga mixed with the best core exercises from Pilates.

Zumba® Toning: dancing but holding lightweight maracas to increase the heart rate and tone the arms

Zumba® Gold: the same high fun as Zumba but we take out the impact and turns.

✃

Sam Croft, Louise Williams and Natasha Johnson who are the teachers at the Zumbathon.

Wallace & Gromit appeal, British Heart Foundation and Ups & Downs The money was raised by sponsorship, a raffle and teas and coffees on the day.

Event organiser Natasha Johnson said: “We do a Zumbathon once a year and have adopted the system whereby people can choose whatever charity they wish to raise

Mon 7pm Zumba® at Severn Beach Village Hall Tues 10am Zumba® Gold at Severn Beach Village Hall Tues 6pm Zumba® at Castle School Tues 7pm Zumba® Toning at Castle School Tues 8pm Yoga-Lattes at Castle School Weds 6pm STRONG by Zumba® at Severn Beach Village Hall Weds 7pm Zumba® at Severn Beach Village Hall Weds 8pm Yoga-Lattes at Severn Beach Village Hall

For a FREE cLASS fill in this slip and hand it in at a class Name Date of birth

Sat 9.30am Zumba® at Severn Beach Village Hall Sat 10am STRONG by Zumba® at New Sports Complex

Booking and details at www.zumbathornbury.com

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Heart?

YES*

NO

Lungs?

YES*

NO

Joints?

YES*

NO

Dizziness?

YES*

NO

*Please give details

Address

Thur 12.30pm Zumba® Gold at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre* Fri 1.30pm Zumba® Gold at Thornbury Leisure Centre*

Have you got any problems with any of the following:

Please read and sign before your workout: I understand that participating in exercise involves a certain amount of risk. I undertake to do what the instructor asks me to do and listen to my body at all times. I will not continue if I feel high levels of pain or discomfort. I will exercise at my own risk

Postcode Email Contact number Feeling well today?

YES

NO

Signed

Date

Booking and details at www.zumbathornbury.com

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

30

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

n LOCAL MP Junction 18A onto the M4: Another step forward JUNCTION 18A, the proposed new link between vital and A4174 ring road, with the M4, has taken another step forward this month, as South Gloucestershire Council took the formal decision to recommend that the new junction should be placed at Emersons Green, not at Pucklechurch, moving the project onto the next stage.

Junction 18A onto the M4 would provide relief to existing and future congestion on the ring road, and discourage heavy goods traffic from using routes through the small, eastern villages in South Gloucestershire, as they make their way from the A46 to access eastern Bristol. A report by the University of Bath has also highlighted the key economic benefits of a new M4 link which will provide easier access residents onto the M4 and accommodate the growth that is planned for South Gloucestershire. It will also address the increasing commercial demands being placed on Yate, Emersons Green Westerleigh, Pucklechurch and the rest of South Gloucestershire.

I am so grateful to the thousands of local residents who signed the petition calling for the new junction 18A, which helped us as the three South Gloucestershire MPs secure ÂŁ500,000 from the Chancellor to get junction 18A moving again. This level of local support has helped me raise junction 18A in the House of Commons, bring Cabinet Ministers down to the site and to show them how important it will be for the area.

I was also delighted to hand a letter, signed by over 100 local businesses, calling for the junction to the Transport Minister. All of this local support has helped get us to this stage, where we can look at reliving the long term congestion we experience in South Gloucestershire.

As we move forward, we now have to get Highways England to look over the proposed location and sign it off too, but I have already met with them to explain that as the local MP, I would only be able to support the Emersons Green option, and completely oppose any suggestion of it being built at Pucklechurch.

As both a local man who was born here and has lived here all of my life, I will do all I can to help deliver the best for our community, and this includes pushing for bigger improvements to our roads as well as smaller local schemes. If you have any thoughts on junction 18A, or any other matter, I would be delighted to hear from you; luke.hall.mp@parliament. uk

Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

31

n NEWS

Centres in sporting challenge PEOPLE in South Gloucestershire are taking part in an international competition that aims to promote healthy lifestyles and benefit the wider community.

The Active Lifestyle Centres are among nearly 800 facilities participating in the ‘Let’s Move for a Better World’ campaign.

Last year, over 141,000 people across 26 countries collected 482 million MOVEs – or physical movements – that are converted into points for gym equipment prizes.

The campaign is promoted annually by Technogym, the company behind the MyWellness equipment at each of the five South Gloucestershire leisure centres.

The centres record the physical actions of gym users, staff members and the local community. These actions are

Boost for care leavers 1625 Independent People (1625ip) and South Gloucestershire Council have announced a partnership aimed at kick-starting the journeys into learning and employment of 200 young people leaving care.

The initiative, Reboot West, will support young people to access work experience, jobs, apprenticeships and mentoring, and is calling on businesses across the South West to get involved.

Reboot West is a partnership between 1625ip, four local authorities - South Gloucestershire Council, Bristol City Council, Bath & North East Somerset Council, North Somerset Council - and social investor Bridges Fund Management (Bridges).

If you are interested in Reboot West, and how your business can get involved, email tim.wye@1625ip.co.uk

measured as MOVEs and are pledged towards a social cause of the facility’s choice.

If any of the centres have recorded the most MOVEs in their region by March 31 when the competition ends, they’ll

be on track to win a range of equipment for their cause.

This year, each centre will be competing for separate causes, with staff and customers set to support Bradley Stoke Community School at Bradley

Stoke, Kings Oak Academy at Kingswood, Sir Bernard Lovell Academy in Oldland Common at Longwell Green, Castle School and Marlwood School at Thornbury and Choices for You at Yate.

Join in the celebrations!

It’s our birthday FISH on Saturday & CHIPS 14th April & we’ll be giving away Free Cupcakes in-store ... while stocks last!

DEEP BLUE IS TWO With every purchase on 14th April, enjoy a sweet treat on us!

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Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 120 2nd800 Birthday ad.indd

1

26A High Street

Thornbury BS35 2AH

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk 14/03/2018 12:23:14

32

n NEWS A student from the University of the West of England has won a local art prize.

Post-graduate student Emily Ketteringham won ÂŁ1,000 from The Arts Society Severn Valley.

Emily is currently studying for an MA in Design. As part of this she wanted to develop her concept of concrete pebbles with the aim of adding fibre optics so they light up when they are handled. The prize was to be used to pay for her materials.

Pucklechurch Young Offenders

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

UWE Student wins art prize Institution, where the grant was used to provide art classes and the Barbara Russell Ward at Frenchay Hospital where the grant was used to decorate one of the walls, were some of the previous recipients of the prize.

The Arts Society Severn Valley is one of the member societies of The Arts Society and meets in Chipping Sodbury.

at our lovely house in Easter Compton

ABF Ad Half Page 180x120 AW.indd 1 To21435 advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

22/02/2017 11:09 Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

33

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second hand Style A look at everyday cars on the cusp of becoming modern classics Audi S6 Avant, 2006 - 2011: The school-run Lambo THE red-hot SUV sector has a lot going for it: Practicality, flexibility, space and arguably safety from four wheel drive systems. These cars have been selling like crazy for years, but I do take pause to wonder why. Because all of these attributes can be found in a traditional estate car, but last time I checked there aren’t any SUVs that also come with a V10 Lamborghini engine. The 2006 Audi S6 Avant did though – a 5.2 litre 430bhp beast of a motor in an otherwise sensible 4x4 estate from equally sensible Audi. And all this for £13k on the used market? What’s stopping you?

Firstly hats off to Audi for letting their engineers run amok with the S6, raiding sister company Lamborghini’s garage

and shoe-horning that V10 under the bonnet. No one expects the Spanish Inquisition, and no one expects such a conventionallooking estate to have this much explosive power. And what power – always there when you need it at any point, no matter how low the revs. I am told by the owner that it pulls harder well above the legal limit (on a German Autobahn, of course) than it does from a standstill. And I can believe him – this is a heavy car at nearly 2 tons, and it takes some shove to get it moving, but move it does – 0-60mph takes about 5 seconds and 0-100mph no more than 13. That is staggeringly fast for something that can easily swallow a grandfather clock, and the fact that it likes to cruise in triple figures comes as no surprise.

My test model has 88k miles on the clock, and comes in rather lovely limited edition S6 blue. It returns 22mpg in mixed driving and will rock on its suspension if you blip the throttle at traffic lights,

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

just like a muscle car. The rather lazy 5 speed autobox reminds me of a yank tank as well, but you learn to use it gently given the huge reserves of torque. I get the feeling that this is the last of a breed – Audi now fit a V6 in the current S6. Heck, even the RS6 has to make do with a V8 these days – downsizing is here to stay, be in no doubt. And that makes the S6 an odd but brilliantly eccentric car, a rare example of a modern manufacturer going out on a limb and doing something really unusual.

Do note that Audi’s reliability record isn’t as good as they might lead you to believe. Boot seals can leak, and the struts themselves are weak. The S6 also needs to be driven hard; leave it for a week and any number of the multiple ECUs may rebel and throw up error warning lights. The engine has a habit of clogging itself up with carbon deposits if you don’t thrash it every now and then.

Which, let’s face it, you will. In fact

it’s a rather lumpy engine from cold, grumbling like a recalcitrant waiter until warm. If you have to ask about servicing – the cost of tyres or ten spark plugs – this isn’t the car for you. What it is though is a fabulous concoction of German precision and Italian passion. For my money it is also a dead cert guaranteed future classic.

Audi S6 Avant 5.2 V10, what to pay: £13k for a 2006 model with 50k miles. Be quick.

Next month: Zero cylinders

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

34

April, 2018

n NEWS FROM STROUD AUCTION ROOMS TIME was of the essence at Stroud Auction Rooms' March sale when Stuart Maule's specialist watch section swept the board.

Fifteen of the 25 highest selling lots were in this category, with top place scooped by a Rolex OysterPerpetual GMT-Master gentleman's wristwatch, which sold for £16,000.

There was a lot of competition for the best timepieces with an Omega Speedmaster Professional chronograph wristwatch making £7,000; a Lemania British Royal Navy nuclear submarine chronograph wristwatch (£6,300) and a Blancpain Villeret 18ct gold triple calendar automatic with

Rolex Oyster

moonphase (£4,000).

Jewellery held its own with a platinum art deco ring set with a round brilliant diamond and two baguette cut diamonds going under the hammer for £4,400. Other exceptional pieces included a Belle Epoque diamond set necklace/brooch in foliate and floral design (£3,350) and a pair of Victorian earrings set with natural, untreated cut rubies surrounded by old cut diamonds (£1,800).

An early 19thC gold snuff box with blue enamel decoration attracted great attention, eventually selling for £2,750, while an Oliver Cromwell 1658

19th early 20th C necklace Commonwealth shilling in near very fine condition, sold for £1,400.

But the success was not all about the high fliers. Auctioneer Nick Bowkett was particularly pleased with a Bergman horse, sold on behalf of EmmausCharity, that made a respectable £850. Items sold on behalf of the charity totalled £1,900 this month.

With Stroud Auctions selling commission-free for organisations with charitable status, an

Blancpain Gold Watch sold for £4000

increasing number of churches and high street charity shops are bringing items into the sale room in the bid for better profits.

The next sale at Stroud Auctions is on April 11 and 12 (10am) when specialist sections will include books, ephemera, stamps, pictures, motoring and transport and Asian Art. Viewing is on Tuesday, April 10 (10am-7pm) and from 9am on sale days.

STROUD AUCTION ROOMS Entries now invited for our upcoming auction on

May 9th & 10th Including specialist sections of guns, weapons, medals, militaria, taxidermy, toys, ceramics & glass

Toys

Ceramics

Guns & Weapons

Contact Stuart Maule

Samuel Staudenmayer of London double barrelled over and under flintlock hammer action pistol.

Sold for £3700

Nineteen 1970s Sindy doll Contact Nick Bowkett A high fired Ruskin paperweight. outfits all in original boxes.

Sold for £1,900 Sold for £1200 FREE valuations every Friday & Saturday at our saleroom, at your home by appointment or why not email us a photograph for an instant valuation to info@stroudauctions.com We are regularly ranked no 1 in the country for the number of online bidders

Unit J, Bath Road Trading Estate, Stroud, GL5 3QF

01453 873800 www.stroudauctions.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

35

n LETTERS Flower festival THE planning for St Mary’s Church Flower Festival 8th -11th June 2018, with the theme of Nature’ Elements is coming along nicely.

We are planning to have 32 flower exhibits with the themes of Fire, Water, Air and Earth. However, putting on such an event needs support and any donations would be very welcome.

Please contact Jean Boake on 416220 if you feel you would like to do an exhibit, could make a donation to support the event, or would like an exhibit dedicated to a loved one. Any profit made from the flower festival will be shared between Thornbury in Bloom and St Mary’s Church.

We are also looking for volunteer facilitators for the LD Social Group who would like to help with the organising and running of this new group in Thornbury. If this is something you would enjoy doing, have experience working with adults who have a learning disability, and ideas to contribute to the new club, please contact Sandy Corke, Curo Volunteer Coordinator, on 07422

078549 for further details.

If you would like help to start a new group in your community where there is a gap and a need, please contact Hilary Jay, Curo Community Connector on 07792 495 367. You may be entitled to claim the start-up grant of £200 for your new group!

Hilary Jay Wellbeing Worker

Have your say on our Facebook page

Kind regards Pat Duru

T YT HE R INGT ON

Community Connections CURO Community Connectors is a project in South Gloucestershire which helps people get involved in their community and improve their wellbeing. As part of this project, which is funded by South Glos Council, Community Connectors help to start groups where there are gaps and need in the community.

One of these groups, The Learning Disability (LD) Social is having its first meeting at Hawkes Café, St Mary Street, Thornbury on 4th May 2018, 2 pm.

This new Group has been inspired by a young woman called Danielle with a learning disability who lives in Thornbury. She would like to start this group so that others with learning disabilities can have the opportunity to do fun things together including crafts, creative writing, walks, barbeques and much more.

If you would like to find out more about this new group in Thornbury, do come along to the first meeting where you will have the opportunity to talk about what you would like to do in this new group.

Letters: email

contact@ thornburyvoice.co.uk

We would like to welcome you to the newly-refurbished Swan at Tytherington, where you will receive a warm and friendly welcome.

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36

n SPORT

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

England call-up to fencing squad for Thornbury student

TEENAGER Tabitha De N’Yeurt received her second call-up to the England fencing squad before heading to Poland for an international tournament.

Tabitha, 14, was selected for the second year running to represent England and is now looking for success at the Challenge Wratislavia fixture, which is taking place in the city of Wroclaw from March 23-26.

The Thornbury GCSE student is part of the under-15 girls’ foil squad and her selection completes a remarkable season which has involved her competing across five age ranges, from under-14 to senior level.

At her age, Tabitha has had to adjust her fencing technique to suit opponents who are older, stronger and more agile.

However, she has done so with success, recently becoming the South West’s under-16 girls’ foil champion.

The Castle School pupil

keeps up with her studies while training five times a week at Thornbury’s leisure centre, using the gym and swimming pool for endurance training.

Centre manager, Andy Robinson, said: “It has been a privilege to support Tabitha as an athlete and watch her succeed through all her hard work and determination. She is a great inspiration to all of us here at the centre.

“I’d encourage anyone interested in any level of sport to come along and give it a go.”

Tabitha said: “Competing across different age ranges has been a real challenge this season but consistent training and setting realistic goals have helped me to secure another position on the England squad.”

She said she would be playing against the best fencers in Europe at the tournament and although it was a big step, she was determined to take it.

Tabitha De N’Yeurt secures her place on the England Fencing Squad to compete at an international tournament in Poland in March.

We want your sports news & stories Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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thornburyvoice

April, 2018

37

n SPORT Oakehampton 45-21Thornbury

By Dave Fox THORNBURY failed to convert a half time lead into victory and were thrashed in a forgettable last quarter in which they conceded 26 unanswered points.

After three weekends of inactivity Thornbury travelled to Devon for a tough game. The match was played on an adjacent pitch as the main ground was being replaced. Thornbury played downhill and began well. A driving lineout was held up over the Okehampton line, but Thornbury were not to be denied and on ten minutes a well-executed lineout drive saw Jak Evans score out wide. Jake Wood converted for a deserved 7-0 lead.

Okehampton attacked from the restart and took play to the Thornbury line. It was now Thornbury’s turn to defend and after repelling many phases of powerful drives they conceded a scrum five metres out. From a quick heel skipper Tom McGrattan scored for Tom Powell to convert and tie the score.

Thornbury restarted well and looked to build in midfield but an intercepted pass saw Okehampton charge to the Thornbury ‘22’. Then with elbows and fists flying a substantial scrap ended with Jak Evans taken to hospital after a punch to the eye.

Okehampton looked the better side at the time and on the half hour mark went ahead.

The left wing took a box kick unopposed and stepped inside the cover before feeding outside half Dan Fogerty who raced away and scored. The conversion hit

Thorns crushed in last quarter the post but Okehampton were well worth their 12-7 lead.

But this seemed to inspire Thornbury as the match entered first half injury time Harry Glew took a quick penalty after constant infringement in the Okehampton ‘22’ and fed Williams who showed great determination to shrug off several tackles and score.

Jake Wood’s conversion put Thornbury back ahead at 14-12.

From the restart, Jack Hussey took play on and linked with Mike Beswick and Williams for Sam Poustie to slide in for a try.

Wood’s conversion brought the half time whistle and an interval lead of 21-12 to Thornbury.

Okehampton started the second half by far the better side and a try from flanker Dean Abrams after two minutes, converted by Powell, reduced the deficit to two points.

As the match entered its final quarter Thornbury’s Sam Poustie was yellow carded for a deliberate knock-on in front of his posts which the visitors thought was an attempt to knock the ball upwards to be intercepted rather than slapped down to stop the move.

Although the Okehampton penalty kick went wide the momentum was now with the Devonians. Scrum half Richie Friend capitalised on a powerful Okes scrum then Kieran Lee finished off a fine run from the restart to put the match out of Thornbury’s reach at 31-21.

Okehampton centres again ripped holes in the midfield to allow winger Brandon Horn to score. Friend converted.

Sam Poustie came back on

with 19 points scored in his absence. Thornbury had been ahead when he went off; they were now dispirited and broken as he came back on.

With the match in stoppage time weak defence in midfield

again let in the Okehampton centres and they created space for Fogerty to score.

Friend converted and the final whistle saw Okehampton win convincingly 45-21.

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thornburyvoice

April, 2018

Winter tennis league reaching its conclusion

THORNBURY Tennis Club is targeting top three finishes as the Avon Winter Tennis League draws to a close.

The first team is currently third in the league. They have three remaining matches and a real prospect of overtaking Bath, who are currently second in the league.

The second team is currently second in their league with one match to play. They are likely to stay in second place and just miss out on promotion.

The Club uses the third team matches for players to gain experience of league tennis.

They currently lie in sixth place with two matches to play. Their target is to climb to fifth place.

Club ready for summer league The Avon Summer Tennis Leagues are the highlight of the Club’s year. This year the Club has entered 5 mens teams and four ladies teams.

Each of the Club’s teams will be placed in a league of 6 teams. They will play a total of 10 matches (5 at home and 5 away).

Each team comprises two pairs who play singles matches on a Friday evening. All matches are best of 3 sets, with tie breaks – so

Last year’s President’s Plate final between Megan O’Connor & Brendan Wilde and Carole Boulton & Malcolm Worster. pairs may have to play 6 sets of tennis during the evening.

The league season starts Friday 11 May and runs through to 20 July.

Summer League practice sessions will start on Monday 9 April, with the club holding a pre-season social to celebrate the season’s arrival.

Meeting saw members briefed on ambitious plans to improve facilities and secure the long term future of the club. The club’s current President, John Harbottle, was re-elected and three new committee members including a new Membership Secretary, Fiona Wilkinson, were elected.

Annual General Meeting The Club’s Annual General

Forthcoming Tournaments The first two competitions of

the new tennis season will be American Tournaments where players change partners for each round of the mixed doubles competition.

The President’s Plate Mixed Doubles Tournament is also held in April. For the last three years this has been won by Megan O’Connor and Brendan Wilde. A different result is guaranteed as Megan will be on holiday during this year’s tournament.

Boys shine at cross country meet TWO boys from Tockington Manor School have represented Gloucestershire at the national Inter Counties Cross Country Championships . Freddie Cooper and Jake Wakeling came 3rd and 4th respectively.

Their success comes after the school’s impressive showing at the Gloucester County League, where the under 13 boys team took silver and Freddie Cooper took individual silver, with the U11 boys team taking bronze.

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

April, 2018

39

n SPORT

Rockhampton to host county matches ROCKHAMPTON’S recent investment in facilities has been rewarded

by Gloucestershire County Cricket Club who are to hold 6 matches at the ground.

Gloucesterhire’s second team will play Ireland on 17th April and Scotland A on 6th-8th August. They will also host sides from Surrey, Glamorgan, Lancashire and Warwickshire during the season.

Over the winter the club invested in a number of coaching academy programmes. The U17 performance squad included all young cricketers who showed a special talent and could go on to play 1st XI cricket. These players ranged from 11 to 17 years old.

The programme was designed and delivered by former Gloucestershire coach Andy Stovold and supported by RCC’s ECB qualified coaches.

The club also has a development squad, based on the U11s. This programme focused on individual players developing their core skills.

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THORNBURY Town are looking for more people to join its girls coaching sessions.

The girls currently train on a Saturday morning between 9.00am and 10.00am at Castle School on the all weather pitch.

They have an enthusiastic coach, Jack, who looks after a group of 10-12 year olds.

The club is looking for new members to allow participation in tournaments in the summer.

If you are interested then contact Jack at jack.harrisonbond@gmail.com.

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