Thornbury Voice December 2017

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

December, 2017 Issue 9

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Expansion plans developed for Thornbury’s skatepark THORNBURY’S skatepark is set to grow, with plans drawn up to expand the site and introduce a new cafe hub.

The park, behind the leisure centre, is now known as REKRE8 and the work proposed could also see a bike track provided in an adjoining field.

If all goes to plan, the cafe could be up and running next

spring, giving youngsters somewhere to get snacks and drinks, as well as work experience and support.

It will also provide somewhere for parents of younger children to get refreshments while supervising their youngsters.

Thornbury Town Council needs to receive any comments

on the proposal by the end of November in order to make progress with a planning application.

But money has already been raised with the help of several organisations and by the council setting aside funds for the scheme.

More on page 3.

A taste of France in Thornbury

Boules set for Oakleaze Green PAGE 4

Jazzing up Thornbury

New festival scheduled for the Spring PAGE 5

Playing the Royal Albert Hall

Thornbury youngsters show off recorder skills PAGE 11

Last chance to have your say Born to run.

Thornbury’s mayor, Helen Harrison added running shoes to her ceremonial robes and took part in the town’s first parkrun.

More page2

Housing consultation draws to a close PAGE12

Youngsters shine in rugby cup defeat Thornbury give favourites a tough game PAGE 29

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

First parkrun proves popular NEARLY 340 determined runners turned out in the rain for a new event in Thornbury - many more than organisers anticipated.

The inaugural Thornbury parkrun took place on the Mundy playing fields, with town mayor Helen Harrison welcoming the crowd before pulling on her own running shoes and joining in, despite wearing her mayoral robes.

South Gloucestershire Council chairman Ian Blair and Mark Pietroni, the district’s director of public health, were also at the event.

Organisers said there were 50 per cent more runners than expected, with a third of them new to parkruns - free, weekly five-kilometre events.

Thornbury parkrun will now continue every Saturday morning at 9am at the playing fields.

Event director Ian Shepherd said: “It was quite astonishing, we didn’t expect that many. I’m over the moon, it couldn’t have gone any better.”

Photos courtesy of Shelley Honey

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

Morton Way to become safer A SIGNAL controlled pedestrian crossing is planned for Morton Way to make it safer for householders on one of Thornbury’s new developments to cross the road.

The puffin crossing is due to be installed between the junctions with Badger Road and Osprey Park to serve the Bloor Homes estate marketed as Thornbury Fields.

Its installation is the result

of a planning condition linked to the house building scheme, which has resulted in more people crossing Morton Way. South Gloucestershire Council is accepting comments on the proposal until Wednesday, November 29.

It said other safety measures, such as cutting the 40mph speed limit on Morton Way to 30mph, were also being considered.

Ramping up progress on skatepark redevelopment A NEW cafe hub has been included in plans to redevelop Thornbury’s skatepark.

Other proposals include the future expansion of the site behind the town’s leisure centre and the possible provision of a bike track in a neighbouring field.

Young people have already been consulted on the ideas through events at the skatepark itself and at the Castle School.

But there is still a short time for anyone to make comments, which have to be received by the end of November.

Thornbury Town Council said it had been working with Krunch, which provides youth activities and mentoring in the town, as well as the skatepark’s own user group and youth organisation Streetspace for the past two years to improve the facilities at the skatepark, which has been named REKRE8.

Funds for establishing the cafe have already been raised through organisations such as the Round Table, Lions and Seedbed, as well as from the council.

The council is also negotiating with landowner South Gloucestershire Council to take over control of the site to allow the improvements to progress.

It said subject to consultation and planning permission, it was hoped the hub would be in place by the spring of 2018.

Clive Parkinson, chairman of the town council’s playing fields and cemetery committee, said: “Recent improvements to the skatepark funded by the town council, which have included opening up a new entrance to make the facility more visible and new seating and litter bins, have already made a positive impact on usage and behaviour at the site. It is hoped these new plans will provide much better facilities for young people in our town.”

Penny Baker, from Krunch South West, said: “Through the provision of a café hub at the heart of the development, we aim to provide a safe space for young people to get drinks, snacks, support and work experience.”

She said parents of younger children would also be able to supervise their children and get refreshments.

Streetspace youth worker Dan Potter said: "We have been working hard to keep young people at the heart of this project.

“We have been on trips with the user group to other skate parks in the South West and Wales to help us assess what will work in Thornbury."

The plans can be seen at the Town Hall or on the council’s website and anyone wishing to comment can email info@ thornburytowncouncil.gov.uk or write to the council.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

3

Driving roadshow for over-60s DRIVERS in the Thornbury area who have reached 60 can refresh their skills at a roadshow about to take place in Yate.

The event is aimed at older motorists in South Gloucestershire who want to make sure they are still safe behind the wheel and are up to speed with the latest changes to vehicles.

The event will feature a number of information stands, a driving simulator to test reaction times and free eye tests.

There will also be a presentation covering subjects such as driving licences, changes in the Highway Code, safer driving at night and the effects of medication.

Representatives from the police and ambulance services, as well as driving instructors, will attend and everyone who goes along will get a copy of the latest edition of the Highway Code.

Although there is no charge to attend - it is funded by South Gloucestershire Council’s road safety education team - places must be booked in advance online at www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/driverrefresher-event-continueto-drive-with-confidencetickets-39036131119.

The three-hour session starts at 1.30pm on Thursday, November 30 at the Armadillo youth cafe in Station Road, Yate.

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thornburyvoice January deadline

Our January edition will be going to print on December 14. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by December 12. 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

December, 2017

n NEWS

Boules rink on the cards for Oakleaze Green A FLAVOUR of France could come to a public open space in Thornbury if plans for a boules rink go ahead.

The town council wants to know how much support there is for the proposal to establish the facility on Oakleaze Green.

The idea is one option for improving the green, which is owned and maintained by the council.

Other proposed schemes include creating a new path from St David’s Road to Oakleaze Road, which would formalise a current well-used walk-through which often becomes muddy.

A better surface for the path would make it easier for children walking to and from school, as well as other pedestrians.

It is also hoped to plant several small trees near homes in Elmdale Crescent.

If the boules rink - also known as a petanque court - goes ahead, it will be sited next to existing trees close to Elmdale Crescent, with benches also provided.

The council said funding for the project was potentially available from an agreement linked to the development of

homes on the town’s former police station site in Rock Street.

Courts or pitches must be provided to serve the needs of residents living in the new housing and the green is considered close and accessible enough for those householders, as well as the wider community.

Clive Parkinson, chairman of the council’s playing fields and cemetery committee, said: “We are continually striving to improve the facilities we can offer local residents and ensure that money from new developments positively contributes to our community.

“These plans are an example of this. We are keen to gather the views of local people on these proposals before any decisions are made.”

Anyone who wants to comment must do so by the end of November and their views will be taken into account when the council subsequently considers the proposals.

Further information and a plan showing the potential location of the features is available from the town hall or from the council’s website.

Drama group pledges to hook panto fans with production of Peter Pan PANTO time will come to Thornbury when Octopus Drama stages its annual production to entertain local families.

The drama group has chosen to perform the favourite story of Peter Pan from January 10-13.

It will run in Christ the King Church Hall, Castle Street, at 7.30pm on the first three evenings, with the remaining performances at 11am and 2.30pm on the Saturday.

Tickets will be available from Monday, December 11, at Chappell & Matthews in High Street, online from www.octopusthornbury.co.uk or by phoning 01454 413783.

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

5

n NEWS

New music festival set to jazz up Thornbury A NEW jazz festival is being organised for Thornbury, with musicians and singers set to entertain audiences next spring.

Those behind the inaugural event have promised a range of music to appeal to a wide variety of tastes.

It will take place on Saturday, March 10, with the opening early evening concert provided by Thornbury Swing Band.

Its members play instrumental and vocal numbers from the 1930s right up to modern times, with a line-up of saxophones, trombones, trumpets and male and female vocalists, all supported by a rhythm section of bass, guitar, keyboard and drums.

The festival will continue with acts such as the Mark Randall Six, singer Jessica Radcliffe with the Park Row Five and the Class Act Trio, all performing in a jazz café setting in the Armstrong Hall.

Ticket prices will range from

Thornbury Swing Band £6 for the swing band concert to £18 for the whole event.

Further information will be released later but music fans can also phone 01454 412272 for

details.

Thornbury Jazz Festival is part of the phase one fund raising efforts to improve the Armstrong Hall.

Jessica Radcliffe

Thornbury firm wins Choral society in conveyancing award concert at town school THORNBURY firm Clutton Cox has won an award for the best conveyancing award in South Gloucestershire and Bristol. The gold award came at the ESTAS 2017 event held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London with the award announced by TV property

expert Phil Spencer.

Paul Hajek, the Managing Director of Clutton Cox said “We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised at this year’s ESTAS. It means so much to us as we know it’s our clients who have judged our performance.”

THORNBURY Choral Society will stage its next concert in the town’s Castle School on Friday, November 25.

The programme features Haydn’s Nelson Mass and CPE Bach’s Magnificat in D, with the choir joined by soprano Corinne Hart, alto Martha McLorinan, tenor Peter Davoren and bass Dan Robson.

Steven Kings will conduct the performance, which also includes Thornbury Camerata

and starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £12 if booked before the event, or £13 on the door. Those for under-18s are £2 if pre-booked or £3 on the night.

They can be bought in Thornbury Town Hall or by phoning 01454 417865.

Meanwhile, the longestablished society is looking to recruit new members, especially sopranos and tenors. Full details on its website.

New fund raising fair to help pay for Chantry repairs OBJECTS found lurking in lofts will be sold at a new event in The Chantry community centre in Castle Street.

The inaugural antiques, collectors and craft fair on Saturday, December 9, has been organised to raise money for essential repairs to the Thornbury and District Community Association building. It runs from 10am-2pm.

Anyone who wants to run a stall or donate items to be sold should contact the centre by emailing office@thechantry.org.uk or phoning 01454 414268.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

6

n NEWS

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

Radio team makes Take-off for scheme to give air ambulance progress in campaign to get permanent FM licence a new home

THE team behind Thornbury’s community radio has been invited to submit information to regulator Ofcom in its bid to get a permanent FM broadcast licence.

GLOSS FM can currently be heard online but its management wants more listeners to be able to hear programmes through their radios.

It will now put in an “expression of interest” for a local service, which it said would open the door to the station being able to permanently transmit an FM signal to the area.

GLOSS FM said Ofcom had until now refused to grant the licence so it complained to the regulator’s chief executive, Sharon White, and received support from Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall.

Station director Glyn Roylance said: “There is still a long way to go before the next stage when OFCOM invites applications.”

Festive food fair set to bring in crowds of Christmas shoppers THE popular Christmas food and gift fair in Castle Street will be returning on Saturday, December 9.

Organised by Thornbury Chamber of Commerce, up to 80 stalls will be set up for the event, which runs from 10am-2pm.

Stallholders will be selling a range of items, from locally produced food to a range of festive gifts.

Previous fairs have attracted large numbers of visitors, some travelling long distances to be able to browse and buy.

CONSTRUCTION work has started on a new operations base in Almondsbury for the air ambulance.

The Great Western Air Ambulance Charity (GWAAC) was given planning permission by South Gloucestershire Council for the development, which will be shared with the National Police Air Service (NPAS).

GWAAC had been based on Filton airfield since its first flight in 2008 but closure of the site in 2012 for redevelopment meant the charity had to move.

BAE Systems bought the land in Almondsbury for use by GWAAC and NPAS as part of the agreement to sell the airfield.

The site will have a purpose-built hangar, grassed final approach and take-off area, car park and access road.

A new entrance will also be built to give access onto the A38, ensuring that when the helicopter cannot fly, doctors and paramedics can get to patients quickly in a critical care car.

Anna Perry, GWAAC’s chief executive, said: “Everyone at GWAAC is pleased that work is beginning. The charity is desperately in need of a modern air base.”

It is planned to relocate operations to Almondsbury in the autumn of 2018.

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July, 2017 Issue 4

Thornbury Self Storage

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FREE EVERY MONTH IN THORNBURY AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES

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.

Tennis club enjoys a good start to the season PAGE 30

www.thornburyvoice.co.uk Oldbury on Severn Church of England VC

Primary School

Every moment is an opportunity to LEARN

At Oldbury School, we understand that happy, engaged children learn better. For us, inspiring a love of learning, isn’t just a strapline, it is the foundation of our approach to education.

The unique attributes that come from being a small rural school, from the extensive grounds to the caring environment, underpin a creative approach to education that release the potential of our children.

Inspiring a love of learning

Find out more at www.oldburyschool.org.uk or call us on 01454 414297 to arrange a visit.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

7

n LOCAL MP

Reflecting on the progress made Luke Hall MP writes for Thornbury Voice

With Christmas almost upon us, we have an opportunity to reflect on some of the progress we have made this year as a community.

We are seeing some momentum on the redevelopment of Thornbury Health Centre and Hospital; £100,000 of funding was awarded to move the project forward, and a visit from the Secretary of State for Health last month, we are starting to make real headway. As a community, we will need to keep up the pressure and support to deliver an ambitious model of healthcare that will support our town in the years ahead.

After raising the issue since first being elected, I am delighted the Severn Bridge Tolls will finally be abolished at the end of next year, with an initial reduction of the tolls starting from early in 2018. This will mean an average saving of £1,400 per year – a great victory for

Christmas card deliveries in town to raise money for scouts and Methodist Church SCOUTS in Thornbury are getting prepared to deliver Christmas cards this year to raise money for the organisation and the town’s Methodist Church in High Street.

The Third Thornbury Scout Group will accept cards in the church vestibule between 10am and 2pm from Monday, December 4, to Friday, December 8, and from Monday, December 11, to Wednesday, December 13, as well as between 10am and noon on Saturday, December 9.

The cost of sending each card is 35p but they can only go to addresses in the town.

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence Weldmac Construction of Rockhampton Business Units, Newton, Thornbury, Bristol is applying for a licence to use Rockhampton Business Units, Newton, Thornbury, Bristol as an operating centre for 1 goods vehicle and 1 trailer Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

local commuters, which will bring great benefits to local families and holidaymakers across South Gloucestershire.

With my own family expanding, I am pleased we have made great strides in securing fairer funding for our local schools, with every school in Thornbury and Alveston set to see an increase in their budgets. Local parents now have access to the doubled entitlement of free childcare, now 30 hours a week for thousands of local working families. We have secured funding for the completion of First Step Pre-School’s new building on the Crossways primary school site, and it was fantastic to see the community coming together to support better childcare provision in Thornbury. There is still more to be done, and I will be pursuing every avenue to ensure the best deal for our children and families.

On Thornbury’s future, I am

hugely grateful for all the support I have received in the campaign to oppose Buckover and the dramatic expansion of Thornbury.

Together as a community, we have fought against the Council’s unsustainable proposals. Like many local residents, I was extremely disappointed with the Council’s recent decision to press on with the plans, I am continuing to use every tool at my disposal to protect our local area.

I am extremely grateful for all the support I have received this year, and it was an honour to have been re-elected and to be given the chance to continue serving the area I grew up in and started my family. I am as optimistic as ever for 2018, and remain completely in awe of the community spirit which has delivered so much promise for our area. I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a wonderful new year.

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8

n NEWS

December, 2017

Post-stroke rehab aids recovery for Margaret GREAT grandmother Margaret Paxford has returned to living independently at her Thornbury home after intensive rehabilitation from Sirona therapists and nurses at the town’s hospital.

Mrs Paxford, who suffered a stroke, has benefited from a service known as Discharge to Assess, where people who are medically well no longer have to wait in hospital for an assessment of their ongoing needs.

Instead, that happens in their own home or somewhere such as a care home or community hospital.

Sirona, the not-forprofit social enterprise that provides community health and care services in South Gloucestershire, has operated the system in conjunction with North Bristol NHS Trust and South Gloucestershire Council for the past three years.

As a result, around 150 people every month are supported via the home-based route, with COMMUNITY groups in Thornbury can apply for cash help to support their work in the town.

In the latest round of applications, organisations can put in a bid to the town council for small grants, which are usually for sums up to £1,000.

They are normally offered on a one-off basis to support a particular project, event, activity or purchase of equipment.

a further 80 going to local rehabilitation units such as Henderson Ward at Thornbury Hospital.

Cathy Daffada, Sirona’s lead for inpatient rehabilitation, said: “We have a number of initiatives to ensure people who are medically stable are able to leave hospital quickly and safely to continue their rehabilitation in their own homes or in an alternative community setting.

“We know that people recover better in familiar surroundings following a stay in hospital.”

Sirona is now expanding the scheme to include people who have had a stroke or a broken hip and Mrs Paxford, 83, was the first person to experience speedier discharge from Southmead Hospital after a stroke, continuing her recovery at her local hospital.

She said: “It made such a difference to me being local to where I live. I was on home territory and it was also easier for the family to visit. In Thornbury they had me walking

with the Zimmer frame and they used to tell me to slow down.

“It meant when it came to coming home, I knew I would be able to live independently - the only visit I need is linked to my medication.”

Mrs Paxford and her late husband, David, who was in charge of the retained fire crew at Thornbury Fire Station and also worked at Berkeley Power Station, have three children, six grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.

Mrs Daffada said: “Home really is best for people to continue their recovery and we were delighted with Mrs Paxford’s progress on the ward that meant she could return home and be safe.

“As well as bringing her closer to home, the move to Thornbury Hospital also meant that a bed was released earlier at Southmead for someone needing more specialist care in the first few days after a stroke.

“Mrs Paxford had been in Southmead for around three

Margaret Paxford back home in Thornbury after recovering from a stroke weeks and previously would have needed to stay there for another four weeks for assessment and specialist rehabilitation. Having an alternative to a long hospital stay is better for everyone concerned.”

Latest grant bid process open to help town community groups They are also open to new groups wishing to start up and are looking for a small contribution towards their running costs.

Grants can only be given to groups located and working in

Thornbury for the direct benefit of the community.

To apply for a small grant, requests have to be made to the council by December 1.

The same closing date has been set for applications for

revenue grants, which are given to organisations which provide a significant service to the community.

They go towards running costs and in principle can be awarded for up to three years.

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

Oldbury on Severn Church of England VC

Primary School

Every moment is an opportunity to LEARN

At Oldbury School, we understand that happy, engaged children learn better. For us, inspiring a love of learning, isn’t just a strapline, it is the foundation of our approach to education.

The unique attributes that come from being a small rural school, from the extensive grounds to the caring environment, underpin a creative approach to education that release the potential of our children.

Inspiring a love of learning

Find out more at www.oldburyschool.org.uk or call us on 01454 414297 to arrange a visit.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

9

n NEWS

Can you help stop school vandalism?

PC Natalie Jones

I’D like to update you on our investigation into a series of assaults which understandably shocked everyone in Thornbury.

A man has been convicted of assaulting a 26-year-old man at Thornbury Leisure Centre and a 75-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman in the High Street on the afternoon of Friday 22 September.

Both men suffered cuts and bruising with the older man also having a nose bleed after being knocked to the floor. The woman was uninjured but shocked and distressed after being spat at.

We expect the 35-year-old culprit, who lives in Thornbury, to be sentenced in court at the end of November.

In the past couple of months we’ve had reports of damage at schools in Park Road and Knapp

Road, including a fire which destroyed a shelter in the Sheiling School at about 5.40pm on Thursday 26 October.

It’s the second time this happened. I’d ask anyone with information about who is responsible to contact us, quoting reference 5217244816.

Other schools have had sheds damaged and windows broken.

We’re grateful to local people for keeping an eye on school premises and reporting suspicious incidents as they happen.

We've also had at least four reports of vans broken into recently. This sort of crime has a huge impact on tradespeople.

We know it’s not always possible to empty a work van overnight, but we’d recommend it if you can. Otherwise:

• Permanently mark tools with your business name or postcode to make them identifiable • Keep them inside a secure storage cage or box anchored within the vehicle • Set the alarm as well as locking the van • Park in a secure garage or with the doors against a wall / another vehicle to make access more difficult Remember, if you see someone acting suspiciously, call us straight away. If they’re obviously committing a crime, ring 999.

Otherwise, call the non-emergency number 101: our operators are on hand 24/7.

Finally, we’d like to wish you all a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.

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

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk 9/2/16 18:37:46

n MERLIN ADVERTISING FEATURE

Customer satisfaction continues to rise at Merlin Customer satisfaction with overall services provided by local housing association Merlin has increased to an 18-month high, as customers say they are increasingly happy with the service they receive when they call in.

Merlin’s rolling average of customer satisfaction has increased to 85.9%.

It means the housing association is close to hitting its target of 86% customer satisfaction for the year. The improvement in overall satisfaction has been supported by an increase in satisfaction with Merlin’s customer services team who respond to all calls made by customers. Satisfaction with this service has now increased to an all-time high.

As well as answering questions, customers are also given the chance to leave comments about the service they’ve received. Among the positive comments made during the last three months were:

“Our goal is to increase satisfaction to 90%

by March 2019”

“Fortunately we don’t have to call you very often. When we do, you are always prompt to put things right.”

And: “Thank you for an absolutely wonderful service. I am very happy with the rest and Merlin have been a pleasure to talk to.”

And:

“We would like to praise the support worker, she has changed our lives and is very supportive.”

The improvement in overall satisfaction has also been helped by an increase in customer satisfaction with the quality of their home which increased to 86.9% over the past three months, and increased satisfaction with Merlin’s communal cleaning and grounds maintenance services.

Research and Development Manager Jo Ellis said: “It’s great to see that customers are getting happier with our services and the quality of their home. Staff from across the business have been making a concerted effort to improve customer satisfaction by listening to customers and responding promptly to any queries.

“But while we’re close to meeting our target of 86% satisfaction for the year, we know we can do even better. Our goal is to increase satisfaction to 90% by March 2019.

It’s a challenging target but we’re working hard to achieve this. And the feedback we receive from customers through our survey helps us to identify areas where we need to improve. Achieving that 90% target will help us in our goal of becoming a world class service and is a key priority for the business.”

At the same time as seeing overall satisfaction scores increase, Merlin has also seen high levels of satisfaction with its lettings service.

For the third consecutive month, customers who have moved into new homes have scored the service at 100%.

We send out the Star satisfaction survey to a random selection of customers every three months.

Over the past year more than 800 people have responded to the survey.

£1,000 funding for local Thornbury community centre

A Thornbury Community Centre is among the latest recipients of funding from Merlin’s Dragons Den panel of customers.

Turnberries Community Centre has received a promise of £1,000 towards a planned new cinema room at the centre. The money will help pay for a large screen and projector, but was awarded on the provision the centre secures funding for the rest of the project.

The funding was granted by a panel of local housing association Merlin’s customers.

Every three months the Dragons Den panel invites community groups to pitch their applications for funding.

Among the other successful applicants last month was Kingswood Community Transport which received £3,000 to help fund a new accessible vehicle which will be used to help its members to access local services.

Any community groups interested in bidding for funding from Merlin’s dragons den of involved customers can find out more and apply online at www.merlinhs.co.uk/ community-grants

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS A THORNBURY church has taken a break from getting out and muddy to get ready for Advent.

St Mary’s normally runs a ‘Muddy Church’ but recently swapped that for a‘Muddy Nativity’, although for once those involved stayed inside as they prepared for Advent. Organisers stepped away from the usual format of a Sunday afternoon

11

St. Mary’s gets muddy for nativity walk and instead got busy with Christmas crafts.

Members of the congregation making advent candles with a natural wreath at the base ready for lighting on the 1st December.

They also made a natural nativity scene using sticks and clay which can be viewed at the back of St. Mary’s Church.

Muddy Church returns on Sunday 21 January 2:45pm at St.

Mary’s. They will be putting their own take on the ‘Bristol Rocks’ project with our theme ‘Peter Rocks’; painting pebbles and placing them around Thornbury to be found by the community.

Fancy a jiggle?

Thornbury Youngsters plan folk youngsters concert in Rockhampton perform at the A YOUNG folk group from Thornbury and Rockhampton are looking to raise more money for charity at a concert in the new year.

Wriggle Jigglers have already raised more than £2,000 for the Warchild charity and hope to raise some more at the Young Folk Concert on Sunday 7 January in Rockhampton Village Hall The group have been making a name for themselves at

Sidmouth and South Downs Folk Festivals and as finalists in the National Festival of Music for Youth.

The Wriggle Jigglers will be playing a mixture of traditional Irish folk and some of their own compositions for the hour-long performance that starts at 2.30 and will be followed by cream tea.

Tickets are £6 on the door, call 07973 796508 for more information.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Royal Albert Hall THREE young musicians from Castle School in Thornbury have performed in the National Festival of Music for Youth finals concert at the Royal Albert Hall..

Abby Phipps, Mia Hewitt and Rachel Hannyngton, who are aged 12 and 13 years, play the recorder. They’re no strangers to performing, having played at Symphony Hall, Birmingham whilst still at primary school.

They study recorder with Jane Mitchell, having started learning with her when she was the visiting peripatetic music teacher at St Mary’s school in Thornbury.

The girls all now attend Castle School Thornbury and have continued to play the recorder.

Their teacher, Jane Mitchell says; “The recorder has a reputation as a beginners' instrument, whereas in

reality, it is extremely hard to make a recorder sound good when played. These youngsters have a dynamic sound together, and have reached extraordinary heights at a young age against fierce competition”.

The girls performed ‘Entomology’ a quirky modern suite for three recorders written in 2000 by Alan Davis for pupils of Mrs Mitchell.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

12

n NEWS

December, 2017

Campaigners urge residents to comment on house building blueprint before time runs out A LAST chance to try and influence controversial proposals for thousands of new homes in South Gloucestershire - many in the Thornbury area - is being offered through a consultation exercise.

Those fighting the Joint Spatial Plan (JSP) have urged people to have their say about the blueprint rather than leave it to others. They said it was vital to comment before it was too late as once the plan was adopted, no changes to where development went could then be made.

South Gloucestershire Council and the authorities in Bristol, Bath and North Somerset have each debated the plan, which sets out the overall amount of residential and employment development and where it should be located in the West of England, as well as the

infrastructure to support it.

They agreed that consultation should go ahead and the process was due to start as Thornbury Voice went to press. It will run until January 10.

Thornbury, which has already seen large scale house building, is earmarked for a further 500 homes in the blueprint while the Buckover “garden village” scheme for land nearby could see 3,000 homes built. Some 1,500 of them have been included for the 20 years that the JSP covers.

In total, South Gloucestershire is set to expand by 32,500 homes up to 2036, with other allocations including 1,200 in Charfield, 1,800 in Coalpit Heath and 1,000 along with employment land on the edge of Yate, at Engine Common, Nibley and on to Westerleigh.

Liberal Democrats

voted against the JSP when it was debated by South Gloucestershire Council.

Pat Hockey (Lib Dem, Frampton Cotterell) said: “This JSP could have been a great opportunity to plan for the future of our area and combat the national housing crisis.

“Instead it has sold South Gloucestershire down the river with an over-concentration of new houses, few of which will be affordable for local people.

“It would take decades to build the infrastructure needed to meet this plan, even if we get the money for it, which is by no means certain.

“On top of that, the plan will see the narrowest part of the local green belt built upon and see South Gloucestershire lumbered with the greatest loss of green belt in the West of

England.”

A planning inspector will hold a public inquiry next year to decide if the plan is sound or whether any changes are needed to make it so.

Only when the four councils have each adopted the JSP will it then have statutory authority.

Meanwhile, the West of England authorities are continuing to develop a joint transport study to help the region meet the growing infrastructure demands that new growth will bring. * Action group TRAPP'D Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development - has urged people to attend its public meeting at 7.15pm on Friday, November 24, in the town’s Armstrong Hall, to get an update on its campaigning and the JSP.

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

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

13

n NEWS

Council tax bills likely to rise by 4.99 per cent

HOUSEHOLDERS in South Gloucestershire look set to pay at least 4.99 per cent more in council tax in the next financial year.

The amount includes 1.99 per cent to help cover increased costs in providing council services, with a further three per cent levied specifically for adult social care.

South Gloucestershire Council said the proposed increase would mean an annual rise of about £67.84 for a band D household or £5.65 a month - for its portion of the council tax.

Other sums will be added on for the police and fire services, as well as town and parish council precepts.

The district’s budget and council tax will be considered by the council in February but residents and business rate payers can have their say on the

proposals up to January 12.

South Gloucestershire said it expected to spend in the region of £571 million in the next financial year on areas that include refuse collection, street cleaning, planning, social care and road maintenance.

Its budget was based on an assumed central government contribution of £91.5 million towards general services and £195.6 million specifically for schools.

But it still anticipated that current annual spending would be more than its income through to 2021-22, with a predicted budget gap of £15.7 million by then.

The council said from 20112017 it had made cumulative savings of £63.6 million in annual spending through a range of efficiency measures, while maintaining its priority to

protect frontline services from spending reductions.

It had also identified future annual savings of a further £10.5 million for the following two years, meaning work was ongoing to identify further potential savings in order to balance the books.

John Goddard, South Gloucestershire’s Cabinet member for resources, said: “We have a strong record of delivering efficient services to our community and to achieving good value for council taxpayers’ money.

“We are committed to continuing to protect the key services which residents and businesses rely upon as best we can, even as we continue to make the savings we have to in order to balance the books.

Ringing the changes for village’s phone box VILLAGERS in Tytherington have saved their familiar red phone box after BT no longer wanted to support it.

The kiosk is being restored but will no longer have a phone inside.

Suggestions on alternative uses for the box have been invited, with ideas submitted so far ranging from a mini art gallery or exhibition area to a collection point for a food bank.

A number of kiosks are being decommissioned by BT due to falling demand and increased use of mobile phones but towns and villages can make a bid to keep them once the phones have been removed.

Meals include festive novelties and crackers.

Festive Lunch & Dinner at Thornbury Castle

Lunch

£50 per person

Carrot and Cumin Soup

Roasted Jerusalem Artichoke Soup

Grilled Cornish Mackerel Pate, cucumber, brick pastry

The magic and warmth of our extraordinary 16th century castle adorns every aspect of the spectacular festive celebrations on offer at Thornbury Castle.

Goats Cheese Mousse

Make treasured memories with friends, family or colleagues amongst our inspirational British dining and grandeur of Thornbury Castle that once housed Henry VIII and his new bride, Anne Boleyn.

Wild mushrooms, spinach, horseradish mash

Red onion, pickled beetroot, walnut and herb crumb

Sirloin of Beef

See overleaf for festive lunch and dinner menus.

Dinner

£29.50 per person

Truffle oil

Grilled Cornish Mackerel Paté, cucumber, brick pastry

Goats Cheese Mousse

Red onion, pickled beetroot, walnut & herb crumb

Fillet of Gloucestershire Beef

Traditional Roast Turkey

Glazed carrots, wild mushrooms, spinach, horseradish mash

Pan-fried Cornish Hake

“Classic garnish”, cooking juices

“Classic garnish”, cooking juices Shellfish, samphire chowder

Roasted Butternut & Sage Gnocchi Kale, sauce vierge

Traditional Roast Turkey

Pan Fried Cornish Brill Fillet Shellfish, samphire chowder

Roasted Butternut & Sage Gnocchi Kale, sauce vierge

Blood Orange

To join us for the festivities this year visit www.thornburycastle.co.uk or call 01454 281182

Crème, pastry, fennel, bergamot

Blood Orange

Chocolate Torte

Crème, pastry, fennel, bergamot

Warm Christmas Pudding

Coconut, coffee and cardamom, cranberry

Coconut, coffee and cardamom, cranberry Panna cotta, brandy, redcurrant

Chocolate Torte

Warm Christmas Pudding Panna cotta, brandy, redcurrant

For parties of up to and including 9 guests can choose on the day.

For parties of 10+ we will require pre-orders via the Events Department.

We have endeavoured to ensure that all allergens contained in our food have been documented.

For dietary requirements or further allergen information please speak to a member of the Restaurant Team.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

15

n YOGA BLOG

Downward facing Drew Unable to touch his toes, more than a little stiff and with a back that’s given him trouble for years, Voice writer Richard Drew decided to put his cynicism to one side and try yoga.

BREATHING. It’s something that we don’t often think about. It might be a matter of life and death, but it’s not something we often consciously worry about.

Nowadays technology reminds you of breathing even when at rest.

My watch tells me to breath several times a day. It’s not that it’s worried I’m going to forget; it wants me to breath deeply. Of course deep breathing being something that’s good for you is not a modern notion. The famous England footballer, Sir Stanley Matthews, used to pause to take deep breath breaths of Lancashire air whilst running on Blackpool beach.

Practitioners of yoga have understood the importance of

breathing for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Breathing in yoga is something Nazama is starting to teach me in our sessions.

From lying on the floor and feeling your breath fill your stomach, chest and then throat (strictly in that order), to breathing in and out at the right times during the different exercises. Like normal breathing, the more you do it, the less you have to think about it.

Nazama assures me that breathing can help your back too: “When we think about our core muscles, we often think it's our abdominal tummy muscles or pelvis floor, but our diaphragm is classed as our core muscles too.

This means how we breath and use our diaphragm has a role in supporting our lower back.”

She says that in yogic philosophy, the breath is the bridge between the body and mind: “We know that stress, depression and back pain are best friends. During stressful times, we are more likely to breath more shallow, if this

become a habit, then it is not helpful for our stress levels or our back.”

Put simply, a deep breath is your friend, for many reasons.

Nazama herself told me she finds it very useful for overcoming her asthma: “I can become ill very quickly, in fact I struggle to talk.

Over the years yogic breathing techniques have played a huge role in keeping my asthma under control and preventing chronic episodes.”

The good news is that I’ve moved onto level two of my yoga back care class so I must be doing Nazama has the tough task of something right, deep breaths or teaching Richard yoga not. I’ve been introduced to new positions to try. I quite like the Tree - it’s one of the few yoga positions I hectic life. Nazama would be recognised; hands above head, one disappointed if she found out how foot on your knee. Nazama stands little homework I’ve been doing. there like an oak, not moving. I She’ll be happier to hear I’m rather wobble around like a willow in a enjoying my yoga. gale.

You can also find more More practice would help, but information on Nazama’s course on it can be difficult finding time in a hectic life to practice a discipline her website (www.yoga-in.co.uk/ that helps you deal with your healthybacks)

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thornburyvoice

December, 2017

17

n NEWS

Health care groups to merge in 2018 to aid efficiency NHS leaders have approved the merger of the organisations responsible for planning and buying the majority of health care services in South Gloucestershire, Bristol and North Somerset.

Each area’s clinical commissioning group (CCG) will be involved in the amalgamation, becoming a single organisation from April 2018.

Primary care will continue to be at the centre of the new CCG, with decisions continuing to be guided by local GPs, acting as advocates for and representatives of their patients.

Dr Jonathan Hayes, the clinical chairman for South Gloucestershire CCG, said: “Although we already work very closely together, with a single

chief executive and executive team, merger will give new impetus to our work to transform and improve services on behalf of local patients.”

The move is expected to lead to the provision of more consistent services for patients across a wider geographical area, as well as more efficient use of resources.

Together, the groups are responsible for planning and purchasing health care services for 968,000 residents.

They include urgent and emergency care, planned hospital care, community health services, rehabilitation services, maternity and new-born services, infertility services, mental health services and continuing healthcare for people with ongoing needs.

Unsung heroes in line for awards NOMINATIONS have opened in an award scheme that recognises the contributions made by volunteers in South Gloucestershire.

Individuals and community groups are eligible for the awards, which are presented each year by the chairman or woman of South Gloucestershire Council.

The current chairman, Ian Blair, said: “Our community awards have been running since 2003 to celebrate the contribution local people make to life in South Gloucestershire and since then more than 400 people have received an award.

“It is really important to recognise the dedication of the people who give up their own time to bring our communities together and improve the lives of local people. These awards offer a great way to celebrate their hard work and commitment.”

Nominees could have contributed to community development, promoted equality, the arts, sport or the environment, worked with older people or youngsters or just been a good neighbour.

In previous years the winners have included local football club managers, sports coaches and arts festival organisers.

Nominations can be accepted up until Friday, January 5, and all those selected as winners will be invited to a presentation ceremony next March.

The Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Dame Janet Trotter, also attends the event and selects one of the winners to receive a special Lord Lieutenant’s Award.

Nominations can be made online at www.southglos.gov.uk/ communityawards but anyone without internet access can phone 01454 863019.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Death announced of castle owner John Berkeley JOHN Berkeley, the owner of Berkeley Castle and a former high sheriff of Gloucestershire, has died.

Mr Berkeley, who had also been a keen gardener and strong supporter of cricket, died after a short illness at home in early November, surrounded by his family.

A requiem is expected to be held in the New Year.

Mr Berkeley was born in 1931 at the family home, Spetchley Park in Worcestershire, where his love of gardening developed, even being mistaken for one of the gardeners by visitors as he worked in the

herbaceous borders.

He married his wife Georgina in 1967 and their two sons, Charles and Henry, are heavily involved in the running of the Berkeley and Spetchley Park estates.

As well as holding a number of roles with various organisations and clubs, Mr Berkeley had a long association with the Berkeley Hunt, the oldest pack of hounds in the country and still owned by the Berkeley family.

He had also been a big supporter of the annual Berkeley Show held in the meadow below the castle.

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Student are kept low to encourse numbers exhibition! sure that everyone Student numbers are kept gets low maximum to ensure

Art can help reduce stress, acreate a our benefit so to reserve place on that everyone gets maximum benefit so to feeling provide recourse orand for more information Starts January 2018 reserveofnext awell-being place on our next course or for laxation but most of all — it’s fun! call today on 01454 more information call today on 227116 Student numbers are kept low to en227116 sure that01454 everyone gets maximum benefit so to reserve a place on our next course or for more information Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk call today on 01454

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thornburyvoice

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA November 23 n Avon Organic Group. The local group for everyone interested in organic growing and organic foods.

Our talk this month is “Making Room for Wildlife” with Rupert Higgins, past vice-Chair of Avon Wildlife Trust and freelance ecologist, who has been studying the wildlife of Bristol for more than 30 years. Many of his observations come from his own garden, but he also explores the woods, heaths, rubbish tips and pavements of Bristol. Much wildlife thrives in our city, and much more just manages to cling on, with startling changes over the years and more expected.

There is much that we can do to encourage urban wildlife and we will be able to discuss the best ways in which we can help.

Thursday, 23rd November 2017, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. All welcome.

Visitors £5 / Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com December 2 n Craft and Vintage Fair on Saturday 2 December. 2017.

9.30 - 13.30. Free entry. Thornbury Methodist Hall.

December 7 n We are South Glos. Decorative and Fine Art Society.

We meet at The Community School, Fiddlers Lane, Bradley Stoke, BS32 7 BS. Our December Meeting is on Thursday 7th 7.00pm refreshment and Lecture at 7.30pm.

The subject this month is “ Have you seen my Hobby Horse.”

A magical mystery tour of some of Britain’s Ancient Customs December 9 & 12 n Alveston Singers warmly invite everyone to our Christmas concerts. Our main work will be the Magnificat by John Rutter with soloist Lowri Bufton This will be followed by carols for the choir and audience including the first performance of a new carol specially written for the choir.

Conductor: James Davies Accompanist: Sue PhillipsonMasters. Saturday December 9th at the United Reformed Church, Thornbury, 7.30pm. Tuesday December 12th at St. Helen’s Church, Alveston . 7.30pm Admission free with retiring collections for The Julian Trust, a charity for the homeless and Off the Record, a mental health charity for young people. We look forward to welcoming you in December.

December 12 n'Transport Video Highlights of 2016’ presented by David Brabner.

Tuesday 12th December 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 appreciated. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RG. Contact Dave Winter 01454 324230.

December 15 nThe Filtones: Christmas Crackers Concert. Friday 15 December at 7.30 p.m. at Eden Grove Methodist Church, Eden Grove, Bristol BS7 0PQ. Tickets are £7.50 available in advance from Dot Bryant 0117

9690654, from Members of the Choir, or at the Door on the day.

We are having a retiring collection for our charity of the year, which is "Freewheelers" (Blood Bikes).

January 8 n Resolve is a four-week course exploring the resolutions we might make, and what they mean for who we want to be. It is being run 8-9pm in Hawkes House from Monday 8th January.

For more information see www. thornburycofe.org.uk. All are welcome!

January 15 n Prospect is a support group for Bristol and district prostate cancer patients, partners and carers. The next meeting will be at BAWA, Filton BS34 7RF, on January 15, with a speaker (7pm). Coffee mornings are held at the Macmillan Centre, Southmead Hospital, on the first Thursday of each month (10am-noon), to help new patients.

Website: http://www. prostatecancerbristol.org.uk and the Tackle helpline, 0800 035 5302, will put callers in touch with Prospect January 24 n Alveston Local History Group John Stennard will speak about 'The Cold War - was Thornbury a target?' He will examine preparations made for defence and survival made in this locality.

Weds Jan 24th 2018 Alveston Methodist Church BS35 3RA 7-30 Everybody welcome. Visitors £2-50 at the door Contact Margaret 01454 417578

What’s on at Thornbury Library Like us on Facebook www.Facebook.Com/ sgloslibraries Follow us on Twitter @ southgloslibs

fun, making christmas crafts most suitable for primary-aged children. Adult supervision required, no child under 8 years to be left unattended.

Looking for opening times, service information or contact details? See our website www. southglos.gov.uk/libraries We will be closed to customers ( including Open Access users) on December 25th, 26th 27th and January 1st. Our digital services are available 24/7/365 at www.librarieswest. org.uk

Storytime and Rhymetime for babies and pre-schoolers Storytime mondays 2.15pm – 2.45pm. Rhymetime fridays 10.30Am-11.00am (term-time only). Most suitable for ages 0-4 years, all activities free of charge, no booking required.

Children’s Holiday Activity Wednesday 20 December 11ammidday. Drop-in for free family

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.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

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 Craft & chat drop-in for adults The first thursday every month 2pm -4pm. Calling all knitters, crocheters, and all people who love to make things…

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!

December, 2017

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

Wicked Aromaz and Friends Proudly Presents Craft and Gift Fayres n Chipping Sodbury Town Hall Saturday 4 November 10am to 2pm. Free Admission

Muddy Church November & December Events n November 5th Family Service at St. Mary’s – 10.30am n November 12th Kids Praise at St. Mary’s Church Hall – 4.00pm n November 19th Muddy Church at St. Mary’s Church – 2.45pm (theme – Muddy Nativity) n December 3rd Family Service at St. Mary’s Church – 10.30am n December 10th Christingle Service at St. Mary’s Church – 4.00pm n December 17th 9 Lessons & Carols Service at St. Mary’s Church – 6.00pm n December 24th Crib Service (including carols) at St. Mary’s Church – 4.00pm n December 24th Carol Service at St. Paul’s Church – 6.00pm n 24th Midnight Mass at St. Mary’s Church – 11.30pm n 25th December – All age Eucharist at St. Paul’s Church – 9.15am n 25th December – All age Eucharist at St. Mary’s Church – 10.30am n 31st December – Benefice Eucharist at St. Paul’s Church – 10.00am

What’s on in The Swan Thornbury

Great Food everyday all day.

New this month – New loyalty card scheme n Monday to Saturday 3 till 7pm

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

December, 2017 and Sunday 4pm till closed. Buy 10 of your favourite drinks and get the 11th free Ask at the bar for yours!!! n Open Mic night 8.30pm every Thursday with Martin come and show your talents! n Monday to Saturday off selected menu - Two meals for £11.Taking bookings now for Christmas.

Don’t forget the Swan Halloween party some great things are in the planning, don’t forget our weekly events n Wednesday 8.30 Charity of the month quiz – Thornbury Fireworks n Thursday 2pm Bingo PLUS Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.30pm (Visit www. facebook.com/TheSwanThornbury for full details).. Also available Function Room – Garden – Bed and Breakfast . www.swanthornbury. co.uk Contact us on 01454 413062 enquiries@swanthornbury.co.uk The Swan, High St, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 2AE

Regular favourite events at The Swan n Every Tuesday 8pm Bingo n Every Wednesday 8.30pm The Swan Quiz n Every Thursday 2pm Bingo n Wednesday 8.30pm Quiz for

Charity of the month Thornbury Fireworks n Every Sunday Free Jukebox.

Plus Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening

Regular events Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7pm - 10 pm 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 starting 6 September Bellydance Classes with SachaFrom 7.30pm . Contact Sacha on 07971 578151 or email

19

sachabellydance@yahoo.co.uk for full details. Ridgewood Community Association, Yate BS37 4AF Thursday n8.00 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

Wonderful entertainment promised as Wizard of Oz heads for Tockington MUSICAL favourite The Wizard of Oz will be staged in Tockington when the Parish Players raise the curtain on their 2018 production.

Tickets for the show, to run over four days in the February school holidays, go on sale in Olveston Stores on Saturday, January 6. They can be bought from 9.30am-11.30am.

Families can then follow Dorothy’s adventures with her friends the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion between Wednesday, February 14, and Saturday, February 17.

The show takes place in Tockington Parish Hall, with the creative team led by experienced director Linda Evans.

Celebrate with us Dance Through the Decades Party Night Friday & Saturday nights throughout December

Festive Afternoon Teas

Served Mon-Thurs throughout December

Festive Lunches

2 or 3 course, available throughout December

Christmas Gift Fair Thurs 7th Dec | 6-8pm Free entry!

01454 260207 events@eastwoodpark.co.uk Eastwood Park, Falfield, GL12 8DA

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

20

December, 2017

n LETTERS

Own a business? Advertise for £5 per month (+vat)

www.Trusted-Traders.co.uk

please go to ...

For a great selection of local trades people,

For full details simply get in touch via the ‘Contact Us’ on our website

Win £200 in our free to enter competition!

1625 Independant People I am writing as the new Supported Lodgings Coordinator for the charity 1625 Independent People. I work for a local charity and we are about to set up a new project in South Gloucestershire which will give the local community a chance to help homeless young people.

We are looking for people with a spare room who would like to support young people aged 16+ leaving care or home who aren’t quite ready to live on their own.

They may need help with cooking, budgeting or may need help getting to grips their new community.

We believe that people deserve to be safe and have affordable accommodation to ensure their wellbeing. Following a successful assessment and application process we pay hosts up £175 per week to cover rent and costs and offer comprehensive training and support throughout a person’s stay.

We welcome people from all walks of life, single people, families,

working or unemployed.

1625 Independent People Helping 16 - 25 year olds to reboot their lives since 1983.

Housing, life skills, confidencebuilding, education, training, jobs and fun Our website is www.1625ip. co.uk

Best wishes, Christina Nicholls Supported Lodgings Coordinator 0117 969 5763 sglos@1625ip.co.uk

Good Report The November edition of Thornbury Voice has just come through my door. Once again it is a very good report on Thornbury concerns and activities. I think your paper does a better job than it’s weekly rival. Full marks to you all, and may Thornbury Voice continue for time to come.

Regards Alan Jones

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if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

We have a Bristol-based team of trained will writing consultants who provide a home visiting service and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.

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

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

ES M HO PEN OWW O H S NO

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village

An inspiring new

Retirement lifestyle

An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

for Stoke Gifford

Opening in late 2018, Stoke Gifford Retirement Village will give people over 55 an opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle, in a home of their own, as part of a vibrant, supportive neighbourhood community.

Located to the east of Coldharbour Lane in Stoke Gifford, near to the University of the West of England campus, the village will have 261 comfortable new homes all boasting the latest safety and security features.

Here the focus will be on staying as active and independent as possible in the company of like-minded friends and neighbours thanks to a host of outstanding social and leisure facilities and activities.

The ExtraCare Charitable Trust aims to ensure that opportunities to live at the village are affordable to all, and are offering these superb, state-of-theart retirement apartments for purchase, shared ownership or rent.

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

Apartments available to purchase from

ÂŁ139,975

*

*Subject to availability.

In addition, should you need care, now or in the future, it can be provided in the comfort of your own village home.

Come along and have a look around to discover everything this exciting new village has to offer.

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Off Coldharbour Lane, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS16 1EJ For more information please call

0117 440 3570

or email stokegifford@extracare.org.uk

or online at www.stokegiffordvillage.co.uk

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 Š 2017 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust

thornburyvoice

22

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

December, 2017

Early birds flock to Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm FOR a couple of months now, hundreds of Christmas Trees have been awaiting harvest at Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm. Peter and Simon Maughan, the proprietors of the farm, are encouraging eager customers to reserve their trees instead of cutting too soon. Early birds are visiting in increasing numbers to “Choose and Cut” their own Christmas Tree before the big rush in December.

“The benefit of reserving a tree in November means that you don’t have to cut it too early, which results in an inferior tree on the big day,” say Simon. “You can come back a bit closer to Christmas and cut it then. We only cut when the customer is ready, and this is what makes our trees special. It’s how we can guarantee that our trees stay fresh and beautiful until January.”

Here are Simon’s top tips for reserving a Christmas Tree: H Bring lots of things to tie to the tree to make it uniquely yours. Ribbons and cable ties are ideal.

H Make a name sign to fix securely to the tree so you can find it again when you come back.

H Check that the tree has a straight trunk, so it is easy to stand upright when you get it home.

H Measure the space at home before you visit, so you can be sure the tree will fit.

Trees always seem a lot bigger when you get them indoors.

Already this year our trees have been hand-picked for McDonald’s Christmas TV campaign (filmed in various locations in Bristol) and for the concourse at Temple Meads Station. One Norwegian Spruce will appear on BBC’s Victorian Christmas, and two Serbian Spruces on Philip Schofield’s How to Spend It Well At Christmas. Frenchay trees also made a recent appearance at the Winterbourne Musical Theatre’s production of The Christmas Schooner.

“I always get asked which are the best trees, which are the longest lasting. It’s really hard to answer, because so much depends on personal taste, and so much on how well it will be looked after in the home. I always send early customers in the direction of the ‘non-drop’ firs, such as the Nordmann and

the Fraser. Later customers will be safe with any tree, but I always recommend the traditional spruces, because these are the trees I really love.”

Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm is open until Christmas Eve, 9am-5pm every day.

“Choose and Cut” runs just as long as stocks last. Prices start from £20. www.frenchaychristmastreefarm.co.uk

For your tree this year - visit the only place in Bristol that growS its own

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OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL CHRISTMAS EVE FROM 9.00AM TILL 5pm To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

23

n RECIPE

The gift that keeps on giving WITH Christmas around the corner I wanted to share a really thoughtful gift if you’re struggling with what to buy someone who has everything. And a fabulous veggi Christmas meal either to ring the changes or something a bit more adventurous than a nut roast for any veggi friends coming.

First the gift. Check out deki. org.uk. For as little as £10 given to your chosen entrepreneur you can help women in the developing world set up a business and climb out of poverty. 100% of the money goes straight to the person and is repaid within 12 months. Then you can choose to re-lend it or take it back.

What a great idea and certainly a very meaningful gift.

If you want to bring joy over the Festive Season to a veggi friend try out my roulade below. It may look complicated, but really it’s all about different parts being brought together to make a stunning dish.

Even my youngest son (a huge lover of meat) says this is very tasty, a huge accolade from him. The great thing is you can prep it the day before, leaving you stress-free on the day.

All that remains for me is to wish you a very Happy Christmas.

I’m certainly looking forward to my very first Christmas with my new granddaughter, Abigail.

Sweet Potato, Parsnip and Leek Roulade - Serves 6 Ingredients: Roulade: • 20ml (1 tbsp) olive oil • 1 leek, finely chopped • 60g butter • 55g (2oz)1/3 cup plain flour • 300ml cold milk, preferably straight from the fridge • 4 eggs, separated • 40g (1 ½ oz)1/2 cup grated mature cheddar cheese e.g. Old Shires Special Reserve (green wax wrapper) available from Tesco.

• 40g (1 ½ oz)1/4 cup chopped hazel nuts Filling: • 300g (11oz) sweet potato, peeled, chopped

• 225g (8 oz) parsnips, peeled, chopped – woody cores removed • 25g(1 oz) unsalted butter • 100ml thin cream or 3 tbsps of crème fraiche • 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg Stuffing: • 2-3 tbsps of olive or rape seed oil • 1 brown onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 100g (4oz)1 1/2 cups fresh white breadcrumbs • 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage • 1 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley Here’s What You Do: Preheat oven to 180°C. You will need a 33.5x 24.5cm Swiss roll pan, lined with non-stick baking paper.

To make the roulade: 1. H eat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the leeks and cook gently for five minutes until soft. Remove leeks from pan. Wipe pan, then add the cold milk and whisk the flour into this with a balloon whisk.

2. Add the butter and whisk together over a medium heat until the butter has melted and the sauce is beginning to thicken.

3. T urn down the heat to the lowest possible and leave to cook for 3 mins, stirring occasionally. Season to taste.

4. R emove from the heat, allow to cool slightly.

5. M eanwhile with a hand-held electric whisk, beat the egg whites in a grease free bowl until they become stiff. Leave to one side.

6. B eat egg yolks into the white sauce until well combined.

Season.

7. A dd a quarter of the egg whites to the mixture using a metal spoon and using a figure of 8 movement.(This helps to keep the roulade light and airy). Then gently fold in the remaining egg whites. Fold in leeks and cheddar until just combined, then pour into the prepared pan (see above) and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden and puffed and not wobbly in

the centre.

Meanwhile, make the filling: 8. Steam or microwave (HIGH for about 9-10 mins) the sweet potato and parsnip until tender.

Drain and mash with the butter, cream and nutmeg. Season well and set aside.

To make the stuffing: 9. Melt butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for five minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and breadcrumbs and cook for a further 3-4 minutes. Stir in herbs and season with salt and pepper.

Set aside.

10 . When the roulade is cooked, leave it to cool for a couple of mins Sprinkle with the hazel nuts evenly and all over.

11. Place a sheet of non-stick baking parchment onto your work surface. Confidently flip the roulade onto it and leave for a couple of mins.

12. Carefully (starting at one short end) peel off the lining paper and discard.

13. Starting with long edge, roll the roulade up with the baking paper from your worksurface still inside and leave to cool completely (about 20 mins) 14. Pre-heat the oven to 190C/ gas 5 15. Carefully unroll the roulade, remove the paper and spread first the sweet potato, then the parsnips over the surface.

16. Sprinkle the breadcrumb stuffing over the parsnips. Carefully roll up the roulade from the longest side finishing with the seam-side down.

17. Place on an attractive ovenproof plate.

18. Scatter over the top any hazelnuts which may have fallen off when

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. rolling up.

19. Bake for 15 mins or until risen and golden brown.

20. Slice and serve warm with all the Christmas accompaniments.

Cook’s Tips: You can make the roulade the day before. Simply stop at point 17, wrap the roulade loosely in foil and refrigerate before doing the second baking. When required go to point 18 and carry on.

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Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

t 01454 325109 m 07894 529452 e info@ventertrailersuk.com

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

24

n COMMUNITY NEWS

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

n NEWS

Concert raises money Latest volunteering for Thornbury charities opportunities from Thornbury Volunteer Centre CAN you assist a team to deliver an integrated resettlement service within HMP Eastwood Park?

Working in partnership with local Community Rehabilitation Companies (CRCs) to support the coordination of gender-informed resettlement services to women based within the prison. Duties will vary and range from ensuring all custodial offenders have a resettlement plan both on arrival and at least 12 weeks prior to their release.

Beech House is looking for volunteers to come and chat with the residents and join in activities. They have fun, go out on trips and have lots of different entertainment.

No experience necessary just

a willingness to chat and take part.

Do you spend a lot of time looking at social media on your phone or tablet? If so you may be just the person that GlossFM are looking for.

They are seeking a volunteer Digital Media Executive to take over their social media presence to help them maintain and build their reach across Thornbury and District.

Must have the maturity and common sense to post material that is interesting and not offensive.

THE first concert of the Thornbury Good Afternoon Choir raised £1030.00 for Thornbury Memory Cafe and Haven Memory Café. The choir started in September and is led by Ben England.

The concert at Thornbury Baptist Church also featured the Bristol Good Afternoon Choir

Contact Thornbury Volunteer Centre on 01454 413392 or mail@ volunteer-thornbury. co.uk for more information.

Don’t be remembered for leaving behind an expensive mess for your family to sort out.

With Simpson Solicitors, it costs nothing to sit down with us to find out more about Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney. These are the only way you decide what happens.

Proper advice from us will mean you can keep them up to date with changes in the law as well as any changes to your family.

We can help you can make sure the inheritance you leave goes to those you want and is not used up in unnecessary tax or paying care home fees.

£120 off powers of attorney

With children you can ensure they are provided for and you can appoint their guardian.

Book your free, no obligation, meeting at 12 The Plain, Thornbury (free parking) or as a free home visit. Call us on 01454 412 278.

Mention this advert for £120 off already competitively priced powers of attorney.

● No long forms to fill in ● We do the work for you ● Just friendly, expert advice ● Clear fixed prices if you …decide to go ahead with us

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

25

n MOTORING

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second hand Style Our last look at the used Alternatively Fuelled Vehicle (AFV) market Lexus RX400h, 2005 – 2009: Knowing me, knowing you MASONIC lodges, country clubs, Alan Partridge: Some images conjured up at the mention of the word “Lexus” are very far from the summit of used car cool. I should know, I own one, although not an RX and I’m not a member of the funny handshake gang either before you ask. However if my wife didn’t point blank refuse to become a two Lexus (Lexi?) family, I’d have a 400h like a shot – this is a truly excellent car and a sublime second hand choice.

They all laughed when Lexus released the RX in 2005. How could such a behemoth be exempt from the congestion charge? Why bother making an eco-friendly SUV? Then they stopped laughing and bought them by the ship load, because this two ton car has all the economy of a 4 cylinder saloon (30mpg is easily achievable), the performance of a V8 (courtesy of the boost from a brace of Prius batteries) and all from a surging, creamy 3.3V6. Road tax is £270 a year, 60 comes up in 7.6 seconds and Lexus build quality means it might outlive a lot of owners. So what’s not to love?

Well the driving experience for one. It can’t compete with last month’s Cayenne - the steering is as vague as a Brexit briefing document - and the interior is starting to show its age, although

my 2006 test model looked like new inside even 130,000 miles after it left the factory. What goes wrong after 10 years? Not much.

The surface of Lexus alloy wheels corrode, but spend £75 a wheel and they’ll be back to new. Lexus replaced the 400h with the 450h in 2010, and the interior design of the later car is a big step forward.

I can’t recommend it though – not only have used prices stayed stubbornly and inexplicably high, but Lexus messed up the lines of the newer car. The wheelbase is too short for the body, resulting in an unfortunate front overhang – much better to stick to the 400h, which is chunky and yet properly proportioned. It has aged well from nearly all angles.

The boot is huge, the rear seats move back and forwards depending on your need for passenger or luggage space and there’s enough room up front for a couple of Americans, for whom the car was primarily designed.

Advert for Thornbury Voice Interested in Rugby?

Join Thornbury Rugby Club Everyone is is welcome welcome Everyone Players from aged 5 Players from aged 5 to to adult Adult We now have a ladies team Now a Ladies team Come along as a player or supporter and enjoy a great social life at a truly amateur rugby club England stars Billy and Mako Vunipola joined Thornbury RFC, so why don’t you?

For more information go to www.thornburyrfc.co.uk or call Chairman Michael Tinney on 07986 668068

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

You won’t want for cat-swinging room in this car. You will however want to avoid Lexus dealers.

They are regularly voted the best for customer service, and my personal experience testifies to that. Charming, efficient and helpful, they will dive deep into the recesses of your wallet while you sip their excellent coffee. So buy an RX400h with a full Lexus service history and get it looked after by your local independent garage. But do buy one, really, because Lexus were way ahead of the rest of the industry when they launched this car and it now represents proper used car value.

This five part series, covering only a small corner of the market, was never going to be comprehensive. Every month manufacturers launch new AFV models, but my overriding impression of the nascent used market is that, surprise surprise, hybrid models currently offer used buyers the most flexibility.

Pure electric cars are still too limited in range, too restricted by slow charge points and really not practical if you live in town.

That said, they are the future – at a party last month Ford’s head of European product development told me that Uncle Henry has now stopped developing diesel engines altogether. Even Transits will be petrol hybrids in a few years; white van man is going green.

The elephant in the AFV room is Tesla. I’ve not tested one for this series of articles as used models are still rare. Instead I’ll have a Tesla Model X (the big gullwing door SUV) on long term test and will report back to you next year. My impressions so far are that their customer service needs to step up, interior trim isn’t what it should be and that this thing goes like a space-age rocket ship.

Starting next month: We look at cars you can buy, run and hopefully sell without losing any money. You might even make a few quid. Why? Because these still-modern cars are on the edge of becoming that most hallowed of motoring confections – a classic. Until then I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and healthy New Year.

Lexus RX400h, what to pay: £7,000 for a 2006 example with 70,000 miles, to £12,000 for a 2009 60,000 miler Next month: Cusp Classics

L & J Gulwell

Family Funeral Directors 1 Quaker Lane, Thornbury Bristol BS35 2AD Tel: 01454 418779 Fax: 01454 419764 Email: info@funerals.uk.net Web: www.funerals.uk.net

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

26

December, 2017

n VIEW FROM THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM

War memorials AT times of remembrance, the focus in Thornbury is mainly on the war memorial in St Mary’s churchyard.

But the town actually has quite a few memorials to remember those who lost their lives through conflict.

They include the Maclaine fountain at the top of Castle Street, which is in memory of Lieutenant Hector Maclaine, Royal Horse Artillery, who was the son of a former mayor of Thornbury.

He was taken prisoner while trying to get water for

the wounded after the battle of Maiwand during the Second Afghan War, a military conflict fought between the British Raj and the Emirate of Afghanistan from 1878 to 1880.

Lieutenant Maclaine was subsequently murdered in the camp of Ayoub Khan, near Kandahar, on September 1, 1880.

The other memorials remember the dead of the two world wars.

The former Thornbury Grammar School - now the Castle School’s sixth form centre - has two in the shape of a tablet and a clock, one naming old boys who died in the Great War and

Thornbury Grammar School’s clock 1067 WWM AS Larger Poster:Strawbs

20/5/09

1067 WWM AS Larger Poster:Strawbs

11:55

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20/5/09

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sDavid t Cousins i Cousins c • David • DavidLambert Lambert •• Chas Chas Cronk David Cronk

Day ceremony, and two others in the entrance porch and inside the church, which between them record those from the area who died in both world wars.

The cross, paid for through contributions amounting to nearly £580, was erected a year after the end of the Great War but could have been placed elsewhere in the town.

A committee considered a number of sites, including on The Plain, in High Street, Pullins Green and on the green by St Mary’s but was ultimately built in the churchyard, where it was dedicated by the then diocesan bishop in November 1919.

Relatives of the 71 men who fell during the war attended the service, which included many servicemen and ex-servicemen marching from The Plain to the church for the ceremony and the sounding of the Last Post.

Information and pictures supplied by Thornbury and District Museum.

Photo: Joelle

Photo: Joelle

David Cousins • David Lambert • Chas Cronk

Baptist Church memorial the other in memory of those who perished in the Second World War. At the United Reformed Church in Chapel Street there is a plaque erected “in loving and grateful memory of those connected with the church and Sunday schools here and at Crossways who gave their lives for their country in the Great War 1914-1918.

The town’s Baptist church in Gillingstool also remembers three men who died or were reported missing in the First World War. Meanwhile, there is a brass memorial on a wall inside the NatWest Bank on The Plain, which is dedicated to the memory of the 2,681 members of staff of the bank around the country who served in the Great War and the 415 who lost their lives.

The better known memorials are the stone cross outside the main entrance to St Mary’s Church, where wreaths are laid during the annual Remembrance

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United Reformed Church memorial plaque

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

December, 2017

thornburyvoice

27

n SPORT

Tennis club makes strong start to winter season THORNBURY Tennis Club are celebrating a fine start to the Avon Winter Tennis League, with the first team currently unbeaten.

The second team has won all but one of their matches and are currently sitting top of division four. With a busy match schedule over the next month, the teams are hoping to continue their good form leading into the Christmas break.

The winter league begins in October, with hardy players braving the elements to play doubles matches in a league format through to March. Teams comprise of two women and two men playing a men’s doubles match, a ladies’ doubles match and two mixed doubles matches.

Thornbury has entered three teams this season and is aiming for two promotions.

The teams compete in three separate divisions of the Avon league. This allows players of all ages and abilities to take part in competitive tennis. Last year the club fielded 40 players ranging in age from 11 through to 70.

The club also had three teams playing in the Avon Mixed Summer League which finished in October. The second team, led by Susan Newman, Megan O’Connor, Brendan Wilde and Felix Boyes, were promotion contenders.

They needed to win their final three matches of the season and managed to secure maximum points in two of the fixtures. But they suffered a narrow defeat by Henleaze, another promotion contender, and finished in third place just outside the promotion places.

Brendan Wilde playing for the first team

The third team comprising Keith & Heather Spalding, Dawn Parker and Martin Scudamore.

every evening in

December

Felix Boyes gets airborne for the first team.

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Thornbury Voice Deep Blue DECEMBER FREE DELIVERY.indd 1 10/11/2017 16:17:13 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120 Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

28

n SPORT

By Dave Fox Thornbury returned to winning ways in the league with a hard-fought win over Okehampton played in rain on the gloomiest of afternoons.

The win saw Thornbury leapfrog their opponents from Devon in the table.

THORNS had delivered forgettable performances in the two matches with Okehampton the previous season and were looking to address that and build on a solid performance at Drybrook the previous weekend.

Okehampton had a similar season to Thornbury to date, but had scored freely when given the opportunity. The match ball was sponsored by Alan Pearn, the former Bristol scrum half and record points scorer who had played for both clubs.

Heavy overnight rain had made the pitch slippery and further rain threatened as the match started under low, heavy clouds that meant the game started in a kind of twilight.

After twenty three minutes good passing created space for Jak Evans to thunder through.

Quick accurate passing along the three-quarters put Jake Wood in at the corner for a well-worked try. He converted with a fine kick

thornburyvoice

December, 2017

Thorns grind out win

to open up a 7-0 lead.

Okehampton started the second half far better as Thornbury struggled to get going. After three minutes a kick was run back and a poor tackle allowed No.8 Tom McGrattan to charge through on a fine forty metre run. Although tackled the ball was recycled and eventually returned to McGrattan for the try. The conversion was a poor attempt and Thorns retained their lead.

McGrattan scored a second

a few minutes later with a spectacular run helped by three woeful tackles. This time Luke Simmons was able to convert and Okehampton went 12-7 ahead.

Thornbury awoke and knuckled down. Jak Evans dived over from a driving lineout but the referee disallowed the try. He did award Thornbury a penalty for an illegally sacked lineout drive and sent the replacement No.8 to the sin bin.

Thorns were not to be denied and shortly afterwards shunted

the Okehampton pack over their line with the ubiquitous Evans touching down for the try. Jake Wood converted and Thorns returned to the lead at 14-12.

With six minutes of extra time elapsed Okehampton attempted a cross kick from a scrum on their own line. The ball fell short of its target, was taken

by Sam Poustie who stepped two defenders and scored by the posts.

Jake Wood converted to give Thornbury the win 21-12.

Depleted Thornbees go down fighting

By Dave Fox The Thornbees suffered a heavy defeat at Newbury but came out of the game with many positives.

WITH a number of women unavailable the team selection included several forwards selected in the backs as the Thornbees took on tough opposition in the Newbury Ladies Development XV and delivered a gutsy performance.

Early pressure from Newbury yielded a second minute try but the Thornbees looked to run whenever they had the ball.

Bobbie Jackson made two early breaks, the second from a scrum took the girls from defence to attack on a fine run. However it was Newbury

who scored again when their talented scrum half slipped through a tackle and scampered in from distance.

The Thornbees were then rocked when Bobbie Jackson suffered a worrying ankle injury and was carried off. Newbury ran in two late tries to make it 22-0 at half time.

In the second half the Thornbees were considerably more competitive and caused problems for the Newbury forwards. Emma Nicholson and Laura Panting were outstanding with several powerful drives and the defensive play of Lindsay Broughton was excellent.

But Newbury had a couple of players from the first team squad, and it showed. They ran in three further tries to run out 39-0 winners.

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n SPORT

By Dave Fox Thornbury lost their Combination Cup quarter final but gave cup holders Clifton a fright. With over half the starting side still in their teens Thornbury paid no respect to the reputation of their opponents from two leagues above and hassled and harried Clifton throughout.

THORNBURY’S coaches took the opportunity to rest players carrying injuries and blood those who had shown potential in Development and Second XV games.

Eighteen-year olds Josh Panting and Jake Wood were at fullback and outside half respectively, with twenty-two year old Harry Glew at scrum half and twenty-three year old James Donohue on the wing.

Josh Panting made his first start for the first team while Will Cullimore made his first team debut at centre as did Kieran Wilson, who turned eighteen just a couple of weeks before, at loosehead prop. The two flankers were seventeen, with Harry Eatock making his first start alongside Jake Goodridge. Jak Evans was chosen at No.8.

The Clifton side included five regular first team players plus a further five who had played for the Firsts in league matches this season. Their back row included former Thornbury player Chris

29

Outstanding performance from youngsters in cup defeat

Rovery.

Heavy overnight rain had made the pitch particularly wet and further rain threatened as heavy, low clouds restricted the amount of light available.

Thornbury drew first blood, Louis Ogilvie taking the ball on the touchline, cutting infield and then deftly chipping the ball behind the defence. He got to the ball first and put Jake Wood in to score close to the posts.

Jake converted the try for a perfect start for Thornbury.

Clifton pulled themselves

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back onto level terms after skipper Sam Harrison broke through a tackle in midfield and had the pace to run in and score out wide.

The heavens opened and it began to pour early in the second quarter. Clifton took the lead when lock Francesco Albasini ran in for the try. Harrison converted then five minutes later added the extras to a try from wing Alex Hall as the defence had become too narrow.

Thornbury started the second half well, attacking from the

kick off. Louis Ogilvie charged down the right then the ball was taken on by Jak Evans, who tied in several defenders with a powerful run. The ball went right where Josh Panting stepped inside and got over the gain line before Sam Evans charged for the line. The ball was quickly recycled and good crisp passing from Jake Wood to Harry Tarling and then Jake Goodridge put Jak Evans clear to score in the corner to leave Thornbury trailing 21-14.

The next twenty minutes was all Thornbury as they launched attack after attack but Clifton’s defence remained intact. On the hour mark Thorns were awarded a penalty which Jake Wood slotted over for 21-17.

However a kick behind the Thornbury defence bounced into the arms of wing Edgar Odum and he ran in for a simple try.

Harrison converted to extend Clifton’s lead to 28-17.

With time running out the contest was put beyond doubt when fullback Bentley Halpin joined the line at a fine angle and raced in for an unconverted try.

But Thornbury had the last word when Sam Poustie intercepted on halfway and won the race to the line for the final score.

Jake Wood converted to make it 33-24.

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n SPORT

December, 2017

Gongs handed out at end of season cricket bash THORNBURY Cricket club has held its awards ceremony at a special dinner at Thornbury Golf club.

The Grace Cup for the outstanding player was awarded to Luke Davis who scored 526 runs at an average of 35. His top score was 132 against Hatherley & Reddings. His bowling was also impressive with 25 wickets at an average of 3.

The Walters cup for the most improved cricketer was awarded to Andy Weeks, whilst the Pearce Cup for the outstanding young

cricketer went to Josh Riggs The most improved youth player was Praneel Choughie and Derek Davis was named the outstanding member.

Dan Davis had earlier picked up recognition at the league dinner for the outstanding player in WEPL division 2. He scored 759 runs at an average of 44, top soring with 176 against Biddestone. He also picked up 21 wickets at an average 33.

Thornbury youngster emerges as top athlete A 12 year old boy from Thornbury is emerging as a top young athlete.

Luke Ball, who is a member of Yate & District Athletic Club, is ranked in the country’s top ten athletes at his age in three different events.

In high jump he is currently ranked number one in Britain.

Luke has won every high jump competition that he entered and his personal best jump of 1.65m was a club record and an Avon Schools record. He also broke the Youth Development League record, the Castle School record, the Avon Track and Field League record and the South West Championship record. He is ranked thirteenth in the British all-time list.

In long jump, his performances have been almost as good. Club and school records have fallen to him as well as the league and south-west records.

His personal best jump of 5.21m

Luke Ball in action

makes him the third best athlete in the country. There is also a jump of 5.29m to take the Castle School record, which is unofficial. In fact he now holds Castle School records in 75m hurdles, 100m, 200m, high jump, long jump and triple jump.

He also hurdles well enough to rank ninth in the country and he is Avon and South West

champion and has broken league and county records.

With performances in such diverse events it is hardly a surprise to find that he is the second best pentathlete in the country. The pentathlon involves competing over 75m hurdles, 800m, high jump, long jump and shot.

The list of his championship

wins is outstanding; Luke is Avon Champion; Avon Schools Champion; South West Champion; and Midlands Indoor Champion.

Luke is now an under-15 athlete and will have to compete against boys nearly two years older than him. A few of them have jumped a good deal higher than Luke’s 1.65m but his coach, Jeremy Dale, has high hopes for him.

Luke himself is aware that there are six athletes currently better than him in the under-15 age group but he has his sights firmly set on overhauling them.

Another target is the English Schools qualifying height of 1.72m.

Luke palns to compete at multi-events through the indoor season. The SouthWest championships are held in Cardiff. A win there would set him up for the national championships in Sheffield.

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