Thornbury Voice July 2017

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

July, 2017 Issue 4

Thornbury Self Storage

Storage Solutions

01454 413343 www.thornburyselfstorage.co.uk

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

thornburyvoice

2

n NEWS

July, 2017

Homes for over-60s given go-ahead on former council office site THE former council offices in Castle Street, Thornbury, can be knocked down and the site redeveloped for a retirement complex, a planning inspector has ruled.

James Bridgwater held a three-day inquiry into the proposal by Churchill Retirement Living, as well as visiting the town to see the premises, before making his decision.

Churchill can now go ahead and demolish the building, which used to be the headquarters of South Gloucestershire Council, and put 57 sheltered flats and five cottages for the over-60s in its place.

The site on which the offices stand is within the town’s conservation area and close to a number of listed buildings, making it a prominent and sensitive location.

Churchill’s scheme drew complaints that the design of the complex was not suitable for such a setting but Mr Bridgwater decided it would not result in harm to the character and appearance of the area.

The developers said a date for the start of the construction work would be available shortly.

A partial award of costs was also allowed by Mr Bridgwater against the council in relation to one aspect of the case.

The inquiry took place after Churchill lodged an appeal against the non-determination of its application by the council’s planners.

At a subsequent meeting, planning committee members decided they would have refused the scheme had they been in a position to determine it.

They claimed the proposal

failed to reach the highest possible standards of site planning and design and would result in “significant and demonstrable” harm that outweighed the benefits of the proposal.

The offices were originally used by the former Northavon

District Council, then the South Gloucestershire authority until it decided to cut the number of offices it occupied.

There was a lack of interest for an alternative office use for the building and the sale to Churchill went ahead in 2015.

£1

ADVERTISEMENT

49

Are you considering making a Lasting Power of Attorney?

Only £149 during July & August WRITING a will is preparation for the inevitable but Lasting Power of Attorney is more of a safety net.

If you begin to lose your mental or physical capacity and you’re no longer capable of making your own decisions, the Lasting Power of Attorney ensures that your affairs are looked after by someone you trust.

Many people are put off making these important documents, by the cost involved in having them prepared. This is why I would like to offer this discounted price during the months of July and August.

The price includes all advise needed to ensure a thorough understanding of the health & welfare Lasting Power of Attorney along with the property and finance paper. All documents will be prepared including those needed to register and if you are eligible for a reduction of the fee, we will also prepare the paperwork needed to ensure

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Nicola Richardson you pay the correct fee to the Office of the Public Guardian.

The registration fee payable to The Office of The Public Guardian is £82.00 however, if you income is above £12,000 p.a. then a reduction or in some circumstances a full remission of the fee can be applied for.

If you would like to discuss this further please do not hesitate to contact me on 01934 886766 or email nicola@ richardsonswills.co.uk

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

3

n NEWS

Opposition builds to latest house building plan

sw ay s

La ne

B4061 Gloucester Road

new housing to have a working figure of 4.64 years when related to our five year land supply target, which we believe can be fulfilled easily by 2036 without subjecting our pleasant working town to unnecessary badly planned housing developments situated in unsuitable locations.”

Mr Hall said TRAPP'D had concerns about extra traffic that would be generated by the development, the inability of roads to cope with such an increase, flood risks and the pressure so many new homes were putting on the town’s GP surgeries, schools and sewerage systems.

He said residents of Upper Morton had not been formally told about the application, even though it would directly affect them, and claimed the development would cause “substantial harm” and destroy the setting of Upper Morton.

Leslie Forrest, of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, said the organisation objected to the plan because the site was not identified in South Gloucestershire's local

WE’RE ONLINE TOO!

www.thornburyvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Cr os

Morton Way

A CAMPAIGN group opposing large scale house building in Thornbury has urged people to speak out over the latest plan for a new housing estate.

As reported in Thornbury Voice last month, Bovis Homes is seeking permission to build up to 370 houses off Gloucester Road on the north side of the town - the latest in a series of controversial developments.

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

Thornbury Residents Against Poorly Planned Development TRAPP’D - said it needed help from as many people as possible to make comments on the scheme.

The group said although the final date for standard consultation comments had already passed, it understood that people’s submissions should still be accepted by South Gloucestershire Council.

As well as the housing, the scheme also includes a community building, allotments, play areas and a country park Agricultural buildings would be knocked down and two primary access roads created off Gloucester Road.

But Roger Hall, of TRAPP’D, said another 370 homes would “stretch the local amenities beyond breaking point”.

In a comment to the council from the group, he said: “The building presently taking place in the area is unsustainable and if this application is approved it would saturate this beautiful rural area and also have a significant negative impact on the wildlife.

“We have already allowed sufficient numbers of existing

plan core strategy which, having undergone due process, was adopted as recently as December 2013.

Joining the dots between your money and your aspirations

He said granting approval would be contrary to that document’s vision for Thornbury.

SERVING THE THORNBURY COMMUNITY FOR 26 YEARS

Unit 4, Thornbury Office Park, Midland Way, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 2BS Telephone: 01454 416653 hello@sovereign-ifa.co.uk sovereign-ifa.co.uk

YOUR AWARD WINNING LOCAL IFA Sovereign Independent Financial Advisers Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number 585249.

Please note that Tax Planning, Commercial Mortgages and Buy-to-Let Mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

4

thornburyvoice August deadline

Our August edition will be going to print on July 24. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by July 19. 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.

Follow us on Twitter @thornburyvoice

July, 2017

n NEWS

Pupils honour servicemen and women A GROUP of children from Tockington Manor School attended a service of remembrance at the South West Woodland War Memorial.

The year six pupils were invited to be involved in the annual event at the Memorial Woodlands in Alveston to remember and honour the servicemen and women who gave their lives while serving their country.

Pupil Archie Symonds also

laid a wreath to the sound of a lone bugler playing the Last Post.

During the event, the children met Bristol’s Lord Lieutenant, Peaches Golding, who commended them on the example they had set for the school.

Tockington Manor was founded in 1947 as a boarding school to serve military families and celebrates its 70th birthday this year.

Find us on Facebook Thornbury Voice

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

www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Have your say on subsidised bus services at Thornbury roadshow A ROADSHOW will be held in Thornbury as part of a consultation on subsidised bus services.

South Gloucestershire Council supports a number of bus services in the district and is seeking views from the public until September 3.

The roadshow will be in the St Mary Centre on Thursday, July 6, from 11am-2pm.

Comments can be made via the council’s consultation section of its website but printed copies of a form are also available in South Gloucestershire’s libraries and one stop shops.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

28 thornburyvoice

July, 2017

thornburyvo 5 ■

n NEWS

Fo m op

Big dig gets underway at Oldbury hill fort

AN archaeological dig has just started to investigate an Iron Age camp in Oldbury-on-Severn.

The dig will run until early July and is part of a project called A Forgotten Landscape, which aims to conserve and enhance the Lower Severn Vale Levels, improve community access and get more people involved with the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

During the past 18 months, volunteer archaeologists have used a range of techniques to survey the camp, which is called the Toot, in preparation for the “big dig”.

In addition to two main trenches on the Toot itself, the team also hope to dig a series of test pits around the village if Oldbury householders volunteer the use of their gardens.

The pits will help the archaeologists understand the

setting of the fort and how it has influenced the settlement that developed around it.

Linked to the dig are a number of events, from tours to talks and a finds roadshow.

Organisers said the programme of events would give people the chance to learn more about the project and what has already been found.

Four of the guided tours of the dig site take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 24 and 25, at 2.30pm and 3.30pm on both days. Those interested should meet at the village’s Memorial Hall. Two others will be held at the same times on Saturday, July 1.

Details of all the events can be found on the project website www.aforgottenlandscape.org.uk where more information is also available on the project.

Town mayor to open Thornbury’s second memory cafe to help meet demand THORNBURY’s second memory cafe is about to be officially opened by the town mayor after welcoming its first users.

The facility is needed to help meet a demand from people with dementia and their carers who live in and around the town.

An original cafe run in the Methodist church hall in Castle Court twice a month has been well used for more than five years and continues to offer its service.

Now the new Haven Memory Cafe will provide a similar facility in the United Reformed Church, Chapel Street.

It will be launched on Friday, June 23, from 10.15am-11.45am, with mayor Helen Harrison performing the official opening on the morning of Friday, July 7.

The cafe, to be run by local volunteers, will then be open on the first and third Friday of each month.

Spokesman Robin Pencavel said it would provide a comfortable, relaxing and supportive venue with refreshments and either entertainment or another activity.

Visitors will also be able to get practical information, ask questions and share experiences, as well as meet friends over tea or coffee.

Leaflets giving more information are available in places such as local churches, GP surgeries and the town hall.

Meanwhile, the original memory cafe is open at the same time on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, except in August, with volunteers welcoming users.

For further information, contact Sue Rowley on 01454 412941 or Louise Wright on 01454 260371. People can also just turn up when the cafe is open.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

ANYO is inv Thorn Th last ye memb W repea Thurs

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

H fu b q

AC pro Arm

the Ma

wit

(Ba con

pho

Ad

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

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

Ti

thornburyvoice

6

n NEWS

July, 2017

Thornbury community radio consortium looks to form support group of friends

A NUMBER of homes in Thornbury will be involved in the next phase of a £20 million refurbishment project.

Merlin Housing Society’s scheme involves improving 1,500 of its homes throughout South Gloucestershire.

It is a third of the way through the work, having

Roylance said a Friends of Thornbury Radio scheme would give individuals and businesses the chance to show their support for the plan.

He said membership fees would be low in order for the Friends to be as inclusive as possible and those joining would be kept up to date on developments, as well as being asked for their opinions on aspects of the project.

The funds raised would go

towards the operating costs of the station, such as music royalties, broadband and electricity.

Mr Roylance said a large membership base would also show “evidence of demand” when applying to the communications regulator Ofcom for a licence.

Visit tmcic.org/support for more information.

The original Thornbury FM broadcast to the town from

November 2005 to April 2010 before becoming GLOSS FM to reflect its greater coverage area.

An application was made in 2011 to Ofcom for a permanent FM licence but there were no clear frequencies available in the area and lack of funding eventually forced the station to close in June 2012.

Talks with Ofcom on securing an FM frequency for the area have now re-started.

Thornbury homes set for improvement in next stage of housing society upgrade recently completed its 500th property.

The Chipping Sodbury-based housing association said it had installed new external wall insulation to properties across

the area since 2012, resulting in lower energy bills in the winter for householders.

Special projects manager Mark Sherwood said: “Now we’re looking ahead to start work on

CAR & VAN HIRE

KEEPING BRISTOL MOVING SINCE 1979

✁

1O%

ALS LTD AUTORENT

Cut out and present this coupon to claim your discount

the next homes to benefit from this work.”

Merlin said that would involve refurbishments to 144 homes, mostly in the Thornbury and Filton areas.

www.pearcebros.com

✁

THE consortium working to bring community radio back to Thornbury has launched a membership scheme to increase audience involvement and raise operating funds.

A not-for-profit venture Thornbury Media Community Interest Company - is behind efforts to get a radio station onto the airwaves in the town, five years since the last local broadcasting project.

Station founder Glyn

TE DEPOTS AT YA AND AVONMOUTH

Interested in contract hire, purchasing or long-term rental? Please contact Dave on: 07990 002247 or Email: david.blamire@pearcebros.co.uk

AUTORENTALS LTD

Choose a vehicle from our extensive range of self-drive cars, people carriers, refrigerated and regular vans, lutons and minibuses…

C AR & VAN HIRE • CONTR AC T HIRE • SALES • FLEET

Call LISA or LORRAINE on: 01454 333751/333753 Email: yate.hire@pearcebros.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120 Car & Van Hire A5 flyer Yate.ind1 1

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

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

7

n COMMUNITY NEWS

4th Thornbury Brownies THIS month 4th Thornbury Brownies visited Thornbury Fire Station as part of their Fire Safety badge.

They had a tour of the station and appliances, they found out how the fire service works and what happens when it receives an emergency call and had a go at using the appliance hose.

They also found out practical fire safety information including the best places to put smoke alarms and how to check them, how to prevent smoke entering a room, how to check for fire behind a door and what to do if someone's clothes caught fire.

We followed this up back at the unit by role playing calling 999 and making escape plans in case there were ever a fire at home.

The brownies had a fantastic time but also came away with lots of useful information that enabled them to achieve their fire safety badge. We are very grateful to the retained fire fighters at Thornbury Fire Station for giving their time to us.

Thornbury Volunteer Centre FROM Monday 24 July until Monday 28 August Thornbury Volunteer Centre will only be open on Monday and Wednesday mornings between 10.30am-12 noon. If you wish to contact the office outside these hours please leave a message on the answerphone

on 01454 413392 or email mail@volunteer-thornbury. co.uk or visit our website at www.volunteer-thornbury. co.uk Normal opening hours will resume on Tuesday 29 August.

The Vale of Berkeley Railway urgently needs

volunteers to convert a handwritten museum catalogue into digital form.

Volunteers will be provided with paper copies of pages and will transcribe entries on to a simple computer form. Volunteers will do the transcription from home at

their own pace; the number of catalogue pages transcribed is up to the volunteer.

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

The Thornbury memory cafe The Cafe has now been successfully running for over 5 years, and continues to be “open” on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, except in August.

The venue is the Methodist Church Hall, just behind the Church on the High Street, Thornbury. from 10.15 am until 11.45 am. We have many regular visitors who come every fortnight, but we also have many newcomers who rapidly become “regulars”.

The setting is a normal “cafe” style, with our volunteers serving coffee, tea, soft drinks, snacks and cakes. There is a lot of chatter and gossip and constant exchange of thoughts and ideas.

There is either entertainment or a visit from a speaker on a topical matter of interest.

We recently had our 5th anniversary party with extra fun things going on, and we have had a birthday party, when one

our visitors had a 100th birthday!

New visitors will be made very welcome. Parking is very easy just outside for “Blue Badge” holders or in the nearby car park.

Contact Sue Rowley on 01454 412941, or Louise Wright on 01454 260371 for further information, or just turn up, and we are sure you will enjoy the experience.

Let us know your community news email us at contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Thornbury Lions Club president John Poole presents a table football game for Thornbury Baptist Youth Club to youth pastor Mike Levy.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

8

n NEWS

July, 2017

All the pieces come together for Jigsaw charity MORE than 100 families will benefit from a new home for the Thornbury charity Jigsaw.

The organisation was set up four years ago by paediatric nurse Tor Goodman to offer support and advice for parents with children needing additional care.

The youngsters may have complex disabilities, health

problems or learning difficulties such as dyslexia.

As demand grew for its services, the charity was pleased to be given permission by Thornbury Town Council to use the Old Bakery Annexe - part of the Armstrong Hall complex - as its family base on a temporary basis.

But it needed to be

refurbished, a project which came to fruition thanks to months of hard work by volunteers, tradespeople giving their time and skills to the project and developer Bloor Homes.

Local businesses gave equipment and furniture, while individuals also made donations.

The base was formally opened in June, with Thornbury mayor Helen Harrison joining families, volunteers and supporters at the premises, which boasts an office, play area and relaxation spaces.

Bloor Homes also presented Jigsaw with a further donation of £1,415 from its regional office

staff. The money will be used for specialist equipment.

Tor said: “It is fantastic to see this project come together. We are thrilled with the end result.

“It feels like it has been a real community project, from the town council granting us the use of the space, Bloor Homes co-ordinating and working so hard on the project and the donation of time and resources from other organisations, volunteers and families. It has been magnificent.”

Meanwhile, a summer ball is about to be run by Jigsaw at Thornbury Golf Centre on June 30 to raise funds for its work.

Generous audiences donate cash for charities at popular concerts

oncert c in o ri T & l a e T Clare Town Hall Chipping Sodbury ber 2017 Friday 17 Novem

TICKETS NOW ON SALE Contact: marklloyd56@virginmedia.com Tel: 07733 898762

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

AUDIENCES at two concerts given by the Alveston Singers donated more than £1,244 through collections made at the recent events.

The money was accepted for two charities - the Julian Trust for the homeless and Off the Record, a mental health charity for young people.

It will be shared equally between them, with nothing taken out for choir funds.

The singers perform two spring concerts each year in Alveston and Thornbury,

with others held during the run-up to Christmas.

They do not sell tickets for the performances but organise retiring collections for their chosen charities.

A spokeswoman for the group thanked supporters for the donations and said details of the next concerts would be announced nearer the time.

The choir was established 40 years ago and is led by recently appointed conductor, James Davies.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

g door Slidin

Lift & Rise Chairs from £889

s!

eds able b t s u j d A 549 from £

Semi-Fitted Bedroom Furniture Adjustable Beds and Lift & Rise Chairs Choice of colours and finishes including High Gloss. *48 Hour delivery on selected models * Matching chests also available.

Varying sizes along with made to FREE No obligation room measure and measure options * Choice of fabrics* consultation Also high back chair specialists!!

FREE Delivery and installation NO VAT to be paid on all adjustable beds and Call us today to book your appointment! lift and rise chairs for Blue Badge holders!

for s f ec t Per l space l a sm

Living & Dining Collections Suites and chairs available in leather or fabric Mattresses from £79 along with reclining or fixed options. Dining Beds and Mattresses sets of all sizes from cutely compact to sets to We have a comprehensive range of mattresses seat the whole family. With matching available including Memory foam, pocket sprung, occasional furniture in Oak, Acacia, latex and natural fillings. Along with a selection handmade pine and many more. of divan, ottoman wood or metal framed beds.

* *NEW IN Following our recent show room expansion we are now the areas largest furniture store with more than ever to offer, whilst still maintaining the friendly and professional service you would expect from a family run business.

51 - 53 Waverley Road, Beeches Industrial Estate, Yate, BS37 5QR

* 01454 325111 * info@ajfurniturebeds.co.uk *

Open 7 Days : Mon - Sat 9.30 - 4.30 - Sundays and Bank Holidays 10 - 4

L L A F F RS*ion O E conjunct % D be used in y other 0 1 OR *Not to with anoffers.

FREE Delivery, Setup & removal of your old furniture or bed if required ng cturi

AJ

Furniture & Beds Ltd www.ajfurniturebeds.co.uk

ritish ort B supp o t d Prou

fa manu

n MERLIN ADVERTISING FEATURE

Two community groups have received £5,000 towards their projects from Merlin’s Dragons Den of involved customers. out thousands of pounds to local good causes to fund EVERY THREE MONTHS the panel of four projects that are making a real difference to people’s Merlin customers come together to hear lives. But being invited to come along and meet representatives from local community groups them doesn’t mean that the funding is a foregone ask for funding for their projects. The latest conclusion. They ask lots of probing questions, so recipients to receive funding after pitching their people need to come prepared. projects to the dragons were Winterbourne & “As well as these two latest recipients over District Community Association and the past year they’ve funded youth projects, “Every year our the Precious Time Consortium who Citizens Advice Bureau schemes and entered the den last month.

Merlin Dragons give Thornbury-based Recycled Teenagers and Krunch South West. If you’re a member of Speaking after getting a yes from the out thousands of a community group and you’re looking for panel, Sue Stengel, Chair of the Precious I’d encourage you to get in touch Time Consortium, said: “I would like to pounds to local funding, with us.” extend our deepest gratitude to Merlin for good causes...” Any community groups interested in the grant made to the Silver Surfers a key member of the Patchway Precious Time bidding for funding from Merlin’s Dragons Consortium. The grant will ensure there is adequate Den of involved customers can find out more and equipment for every Silver Surfer session whilst apply online at www.merlinhs.co.uk/ enabling the group to expand and create opportunity community-grants for more people. The group were overcome when we gave them the news of your very generous grant.”

Closing date looms for apprenticeship programme There’s only a few days left to get your applications in to join Merlin’s 2017 apprenticeship programme.

The housing association has six one-year apprenticeships on offer in business administration, customer services and painting and decorating.

If you’re interested, visit www.merlinhs.co.uk/ apprenticeships

Claire Willis, Community Insight & Investment Officer, said: “Every year our Merlin Dragons give

Merlin Dragons

Work is due to start later this year to make Merlin’s homes in Thornbury warmer and cheaper to heat.

Sandra said: “The finished house SIXTY-FIVE HOMES in the town “In total Merlin looks amazing. I pull up in front of are included in the next phase of is investing more the house in my car every day and the housing association’s nonI can’t believe how good it looks. It traditional housing refurbishment than £20m...” looks like a brand new house – it’s project. Merlin is currently carrying got real kerb appeal. out surveys of the properties with the aim of “It’s like a thermos flask, it keeps the heat in starting work within a few months.

In total Merlin is investing more than £20m to fit new external wall insulation to around 1,500 non-traditional properties across South Gloucestershire. The project recently celebrated completing work to its 500th home and the occupants, Sandra and Malcolm Garland, recently welcomed the project team to have a look around their finished home.

in the winter and keeps the house cool in the summer. It’s already cooler now but it’ll be in the winter that we really notice it.”

Special Projects Manager Mark Sherwood said: “It’s great to hear such positive feedback from customers like Mr and Mrs Garland whose homes have been refurbished and are seeing a real difference to their lives. We’re hearing

from other customers that they’ve spent less on their energy bills during the winter because their homes are so much warmer now.

“We’ve already completed work to 52 homes in Thornbury, now we’re looking forward to getting started on the 65 homes in the next phase.”

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

n NEWS

Carnival time approaches as Thornbury gets ready to welcome the crowds

FINAL preparations are being made for Thornbury’s annual carnival, as the town gets ready to entertain thousands of visitors at the event.

The carnival takes place on Saturday, July 1, with a parade launching a full day of activities.

The procession of classic cars, marching bands, military vehicles and an open-top bus with a jazz band on board will leave the Castle School in Park Street at 10.30am.

It will wind its way along Castle Street and High Street to the Mundy Playing Fields show site, with local groups encouraged to join the

procession on foot or floats.

A programme for the rest of the day will run from noon to 7.30pm, with a funfair, electric karts, live music and birds of prey among the attractions.

The music is set to appeal to all tastes - from gipsy violin duo Peroucki and rock fusion band Rock Pipes to the Gugge 200 Band from Bournemouth and The Femmes from London.

Thornbury Town Band, Irish dancers and Thornbury Musical Theatre Group will also be involved, with the event’s finale provided by Queen tribute band The Bohemians.

11

Pop up shop works wonders for charity THORNBURY Volunteer Centre says it’s delighted with the response to its first pop up shop.

People were queuing for the shop to open on its first day. Staff were busy all day, with most popular items being bric a brac but the shop also sold an antique wooden writing slope and Chinese chess set.

The 1940's cafe was also proved popular and the charity had several new volunteers register after seeing publicity on the day and talking to representatives from different local community organisations who were at the shop throughout the week.

A spokesperson for theB4061 centre said: “It has been a fantastic Gloucester Road experience and we have fulfilled our aim of raising the profile of volunteering within Thornbury and district as well as raising much needed funds. We are very grateful to everyone who has donated items for sale in the shop and for the help of the St Mary Centre Management team.”

Sirona Awards for Excellence

Do you know someone who works for Sirona?

The Sirona Awards for Excellence 2017 are now open for nominations.

We want you to tell us who you think deserves an award.

We have hundreds of staff working across South Gloucestershire, parts of Bristol and Bath and North East Somerset; they are based in a range of places from GP surgeries to hospitals or from clinics to extra care facilities or residential homes.

Quite often they will visit you in your own home.

To nominate, go online at: www.sirona-cic.org.uk or email details to: communications@sirona-cic.org.uk or write to: Sirona Awards for Excellence 2017, Corum 1, Corum Office Park, Crown Way, Warmley, Bristol, BS30 8FJ • Closing date for nominations: 31st July 2017 •

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Sat 5th & Sun 6th August 2017 - Gates open at 10:30am The South Glos Showground, Westerleigh, BS37 8QZ

2 Full Days of Fantastic Family Fun!

Book Tickets Now and Save ££££££££££’s!

Attractions include: shooting, archery, beer festival, music festival, cycling show, fishing competition with cash prize, main arena activities, farmers market, classic car show, craft market, local sports and activities, health and wellbeing stalls, a fairground and plenty of retail therapy!

For ticket prices and information visit www.southglosshow.co.uk or call 01454 222959

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

n NEWS WE all put on a bit of a show when visitors come to our homes, trying to show off our best sides.

But no-one is going to build an extension for someone staying for a few days. Back in the sixteenth century though, you did if that visitor was King Henry VIII. It’s left one of the most important Tudor buildings one our doorstep, as Lisa Kopper explains Right on your doorstep in Iron Acton is one of the most important Tudor buildings in the UK yet it is still something of a secret. ACTON COURT is said to be the the most original Tudor building in England.

In 1535 the owner, Nicholas Poyntz built a magnificent new East Wing on to the existing moated manor house in honour of HenryVIII and Anne Boleyn’s summer progress around the West Country.

The new wing was a splendid testament to Nicholas Poyntz’s loyalty to his King. He went to immense trouble and expense, decorating the state apartments lavishly and fashionably. He was well rewarded as it is thought he was knighted during the royal visit.

Today, the East Wing which was built in just nine months comprises most of what remains at Acton Court. It offers a rare example of 16th century royal state apartments and some decorations which are the finest of their kind in England. Also surviving, hidden in the masonry until it was discovered during conservation work, is the King’s ‘en suite’ garderobe.

Sir Nicholas went on building at Acton Court until his death in 1556.

13

Be transported back almost 500 years at Acton Court

The surviving Eastern half of his long gallery can still be admired.

It was a daring construction with large windows and a painted frieze of biblical text and moralising verses in Latin.

During archaeological excavations at Acton Court, there were many exciting finds, thought to be associated with King Henry’s visit. These included examples of the finest Venetian glass of its time, Spanish ceramics, and some of the earliest clay tobacco pipes yet discovered. Dating from the 16th century, these support the view that Sir Walter Raleigh gave one of the first demonstrations in England of the technique of smoking during a visit to Acton Court.

One item of particular importance was found by chance in a nettle patch next to the

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

building. It is a Cotswold limestone sundial designed by the royal horologist Nicholas Kratzer, dated 1520.

All artefacts are currently held at Bristol city Museum.

The Poyntz family owned Acton Court from 1364 until 1680 when the direct line of succession ended and the house was sold.

It was subsequently reduced in size and converted for use as a tenant farm house. The building’s fortunes declined to the point of dilapidation in the 20th century.

It is due to this neglect that Acton Court was left largely untouched and as a result a unique Tudor building has been preserved virtually intact.

Restoration work was largely funded by ‘English Heritage’. It is Grade 1 listed and the house

and grounds are also Scheduled Monuments.

Today Acton Court is preserved as far as possible in its original state.

It is a Soil Association Certified organic site and the grounds are managed to try and support native wildlife species. There is a walled wildflower meadow and orchard and a kitchen garden. We cultivate Old English and wild roses.

The house is open to the public for a limited period in the summer.

Due to the fragile nature of the construction, only small, escorted groups can view the rooms at any one time.

Full access to the house and grounds is with a professional guide only.

We also host a number of special events. Our renaissance concerts are always very special. To view our events please visit www. actoncourt.com Acton Court is open to the public 5 July to 13 August 2017, closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Groups must book in advance.

Tour times: 2pm and 3:30pm Wednesday to Sunday inclusive.

No tours Sunday 13 August, closing event only.

Admission prices: £8 | £6 concessions Teas and home made cakes are available. There is partial access for disabled visitors. Parking and loos on site.

Email booking: info@ actoncourt.com| Information line 01454 228 224 www.actoncourt.com

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

14

n ON THE BEAT

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

Crime & consequences talks; summer ASB

PC Natalie Jones

THIS month we’re visiting local primary schools to talk to year six pupils before they break up for the summer holidays and move up to secondary school.

The sessions aim to give children information to help them to stay safe as they start to become more independent. We talk to them about road, personal and online safety and what to do if they’re frightened or worried.

We know most children in our community are well on the way to becoming good citizens, but we also give tips on avoiding peer pressure as well as explaining the consequences to themselves and others of getting involved in antisocial behaviour.

The neighbourhood team supports work being done by

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Thornbury Town Council to help ensure the skate park is a safe place for young people. The council has taken on the maintenance of the area and is installing lighting, CCTV and bins.

We often have more calls about ASB over the summer, as we all spend more time outdoors or with our windows open over the summer.

Inconsiderate use of vehicles, damage to property, rowdy and drunken behaviour and raves are some of the issues that understandably upset people the most.

Please make sure your fun doesn’t ruin other people’s summer: • if you are outside think about how your noise might affect others, especially late in the evening

• be aware that big noisy groups of people can be intimidating to others Of course, if you see someone committing crime or anti-social behaviour, we’d want to hear from you straight away. Your information helps us target our patrols effectively and can be the evidence we need to take action against those responsible.

Call 999 if a crime is underway, an offender is on the scene or someone could get hurt. Otherwise ring our non-emergency number 101 at any time. You can also report incidents online at www. avonandsomerset.police.uk.

If you’re affected by ASB, you can also report it to South Gloucestershire Council or your housing provider.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

15

n NEWS

Castle School to welcome new interim headteacher for next academic year A NEW interim headteacher will join the Castle School in September after it was announced that Peter Smart will continue on secondment at Winterbourne International Academy.

Mr Smart switched from leading the Thornbury school to become interim principal at the troubled academy at the start of this year.

As a result of a request from Winterbourne, that arrangement has now been extended to cover the next academic year.

William Roberts, chief executive of the Castle School

Education Trust (CSET), stepped in to cover for Mr Smart during his absence.

But it has now been announced that Angie Browne will become interim head for the 2017-18 school year.

Mr Roberts said: “Ms Browne will work with our school leadership team over the coming weeks to plan for the new academic year and will attend events in order to meet parents both before and after the summer holiday.”

In a message to pupils, staff and parents, Ms Browne said: “Having worked as an

English teacher and then head of English in a central Bristol school and rural Wiltshire school respectively, I returned to Bristol where I worked as a senior leader for five years.

“I moved on to take up the post of executive deputy headteacher of a special school federation in South Gloucestershire, where I was then promoted to headteacher of the ‘education other than at school service’.

“In 2013 I was appointed as founding principal of Steiner Academy Bristol and established the fourth 4th Steiner free school

in the UK. “Having led the school through its formative stages, I am now delighted to be returning to South Gloucestershire and thrilled to be joining the staff and school community at the Castle School.”

CSET and the Olympus Academy Trust are jointly providing interim leadership at Winterbourne to help get the academy out of special measures.

They had already proposed taking over sponsorship of the school and hope that will eventually happen.

thornburyvoice www.th

ornbur

FREE EVER

yvoice.c o.uk

Thornb

Self Stor ury age

Storage Soluti

Campaig Y MONTH IN THORNBURY July, 2017 Issue 01454 4133 ons 43 4 to propo n group joins AND SURROUNDING VILL oppo AGES sed housi ng estate sition Green light for home on counc s

WE’RE ONLINE TOO! www.thornburyvoice.co.uk LOOKING FOR LEGAL ADVICE?

� Solicitors Your LOCAL offer you friendly professional expert advice Divorce & Separation Family Law Employment Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution

FREE 30 MINUTE INITIAL MEETING CONTACT US TODAY

0333 320 8600 www.bevanevemy.co.uk standard rate call charges

Bevan & Evemy Solicitors is authorised and Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under ID Number 607770.

COUNT RYSIDE have added campaig ners their opposit ion againstvoice to large-sc ale housing the latest Thornb plan for ury.

The Campai Rural England gn to Protect submitt (CPRE) ed an objectio has plan by Bovis Homes n to the to 370 homes to build of the town on the north up off Glouces side If the approve outline schemeter Road. out of thed, it will extend is A38 acrosstown towards housing the nearly agricult ural land 60 acres of Morton from Upper to Crosswa The Knapp. ys Lane at It will homes also add even to more already the many hundred built recently s have been or which permiss granted plannin ion. g A large to the plan number of objectio with South have been ns Glouces posted Council tershire , residen including from ts and the action group the individu CPRE, as well TRAPP’D as al residen The CPRE ts of said the the town. alongsid Bovis site, e the B4061, been identifi ed in the had not strategy local core . Full story Having page 3. a Find out blast: Firefighters more in our commuin Thornbu nity news, ry sign up some Page 7. young

www.thor nburyselfs torage.co.u k

il office site

Go ahead complex given for retireme on Castle Street nt PAGE 2

Big dig gets underway in Oldbu

ry

Work starts at Iron Age camp PAGE 5

Pieces fall for Jigsaw into place

Charity moves into new Thornbu ry HQ PAGE 8

In the swing

recruits .

Tennis club to the seasonenjoys a good start PAGE 30

What’s on at The Swan Every week at The Swan Great Food everyday all day Tuesday 8pm Bingo Wednesday 8.30pm The Swan Quiz Thursday 2.30pm Bingo Friday 9am to 12pm Coffee Morning with all proceeds to the Charity of the Month Sunday from 4pm Free Jukebox with free pints up for grabs Sunday from 7.30pm Poker night PLUS Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.15pm Swan Charity of the month - The League Of Friends Of Thornbury Hospital Continuing to support Ezzy’s Wish to Walk with over £9500 raised so far 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

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

16

July, 2017

n NEWS

£10 eye test voucher Book online at specsavers.co.uk Valid for one test on or before 30 September 2017 at discounted price of only £10. Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, used with other vouchers or eye-health clinic appointments, or redeemed by customers already entitled to a free NHS-funded eye test. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only.

Thornbury onestop-shop closure to go ahead despite opposition THE controversial move to close Thornbury’s one-stop-shop will go ahead from the end of June.

A decision was taken last autumn to shut down the facility, which is based in the town’s library and provides a point of contact for local people who need help and advice with council services.

But South Gloucestershire Council said Thornbury had been the least busy of its one-stopshops for a number of years and closing it would help save £60,000 annually.

Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors had spoken out against the closure but it was confirmed for mid-2017.

However, the council said new arrangements had been made at the library to help residents needing to access its services.

That included installing more computers and having a dedicated member of staff available for the next six months to help people get used to what might be a new way of dealing with the council.

South Gloucestershire said a significant number of users of the Thornbury facility lived closer to alternative services, especially the Patchway one-

stop-shop.

But those who make use of the Thornbury service will still be able to visit the library - and get help there if necessary to collect application forms for benefits, bus passes and blue badges for the disabled, report potholes, renew garden waste subscriptions and use a freephone to speak to advisers.

More complicated matters might involve visiting other onestop-shops in Yate, Patchway or Kingswood.

John Goddard, the council’s Cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “This decision is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to spending our money where it can make the most difference.

“Closing the Thornbury onestop-shop, which is the quietest of these services, will help us save £60,000, which in turn means that we can protect other services that people rely on.

“Although this decision was taken last year, we have spent time since then making arrangements that will support residents who may need a little help, such as accessing services online, if they don’t have the equipment or the confidence.”

Thornbury 12 St Mary’s Way Tel 01454 414 341

Deliverers needed for Thornbury Voice

# To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Would you like to help deliver Thornbury Voice to our readers? We are looking for people to help us with this important role. It’s a once a month commitment, so whether you are looking for some paid exercise or extra pocket money, we’d like to hear from you. You need to be reliable, as it’s important the paper goes to homes in the area every month. The minimum age for a round is 13 (with parental permission) - there is no upper limit!

Email contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

Email: needed contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk Distributer We need someone to make sure Thornbury Voice gets out every month. You would be responsible for receiving the papers and

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

17

n NEWS

Pupils’ mini-beast artwork brightens up building site hoarding ARTWORK created by children at Manorbrook Primary School, Thornbury, has been used to decorate a building site’s hoarding in the town.

The mini-beasts which inspired the youngsters have been recreated at the location for a new care home in Midland Way. Castleoak is building the Grace Care Centre for the Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) and the company asked the school to enter its Ivor Goodsite hoarding design competition.

Children in years one and two were challenged to come up with curriculum-inspired artwork that could be used on the boundary hoarding.

The pupils were then invited to see the end result at the site, where they were shown around and told about the importance of site safety.

Jane Lunn, of OSJCT, also explained about the care home and who will live there when it opens at the end of this year.

The 70-bed centre will provide

Site manager Paul Evans (in hi-visibility vest) and Robert Strzelczyk, area operations manager for the Orders of St John Care Trust, with pupils from Manorbrook School in front of their artwork.

Open garden Sunday to raise money for cancer research A NUMBER of gardens will be open to visitors to raise money for the Thornbury and district fundraising committee of Cancer Research UK. The gardens in Alveston, Tytherington, Milbury Heath, Cromhall and Heathend can be visited from 2pm-6pm on Sunday, July 16. The allotments in Alveston will also be open on the day.

An entrance fee of £6 covers all the gardens involved in the event.

Teas and plants will also be on sale at the garden in Alveston that will be open for the occasion.

24-hour specialist dementia care and will also feature a cafe, craft room, cinema and a hair and beauty salon.

Clare Teal announces Chipping Sodbury date POPULAR jazz singer Claire Teal is to play a concert in Chipping sodbury.

The award winning singer and her trio are performing at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on Friday 17 November. The Radio 2 presenter is also known for her work with her big band and Hollywood Orchestra, but says she revels in performing in more intimate venues accompanied by piano, bass and drums.

Organisers of the concert say the rich, jazz infused repertoire explores timeless classics penned by the legendary musical storytellers of the last 100 years, and celebrates giants of the great American and British songbooks through to the work of more contemporary writers and Clare’s own original compositions.

Contact 07733 898762

AFFORDABLE LOANS …at your fingertips Fixed manageable weekly payments, quick and easy to arrange with no set up fee and no hidden costs.

Representative 399.66% APR

LIKE & SHARE US ON FACEBOOK

and you could win vouchers* for ‘LOVE2SHOP’ Online application form www.castleloans.co.uk Call us today on 01454 800 211

Email: info@castleloans.co.uk

or email marklloyd56@ virginmedia.com for ticket availability.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Compare the price of home collected and other cash loans available in your area at www.lenderscompared.org.uk *Terms and Conditions apply. Details on our Facebook Page.

AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

18

thornburyvoice

n WHAT’S ON IN OUR AREA 30 June n Bite Size Theatre. Journeyman Theatre Productions are performing four ten minute comedy plays between the courses of a fine four course meal. The Park Hotel, Falfield. Tel 01454 260550 for tickets (£35) Friday 30th June 2017, 7pm.

July1st n Bristol Chamber Orchestra invite you to a Summer Serenade at Frenchay Parish Church BS16 1LJ Saturday July 1st at 7.30 pm. Music

by Handel, Bach, Arensky, Sibelius, Borodin, Grieg, Dag Wiren and ending with the Radetzky March by Strauss. Tickets £9 in advance, £11 on the door (Students £5, Children free) Includes refreshments Contact number 0117 9562106. july 9 n The New Siblands School Summer Fayre will be held on Sunday 9 July, 2pm-4.30pm, at the Gillingstool (primary school) site.

July 16 n Cancer Research UK Thornbury and District Cancer Research UK Committee “Open Gardens” Sunday 16th July 2pm/ 6pm. Gardens open at Heathend, Cromhall, Milbury Heath, Tytherington and Alveston. Alveston Allotments also.

Entrance £6 per person. Tea`s/plant sales at Alveston garden. Call Pam 01454 416941 July 26 n 132nd Hawkesbury Horticultural Show. at the Village Hall and Rec, High Street, Hawkesbury Upton

GL9 1AU. Horticultural Produce and Crafts Show, Showground gates open at 12.30pm. Pay on the gate or buy advance tickets at Hawkesbury Stores or Hawkesbury Upton Post Office. Adults £5, Senior Citizens £3, Children £2, Family ticket £12 (2 adults + up to 4 children). For further information or to book a stall phone 01454 232910 or email: vicky@ coombeview.com. Website: www. hawkesburyshow.org

Severn Vale Flower Club

Armstrong Complex, Thornbury BS35 2BJ . Annual subscription £42, visitors £5. Demonstrations 3rd Wednesday in the month at 2.00 PM. Practice classes at 1.30 PM members £3 visitors £5 n June 21st 60 glorious years (Mini demonstration) followed by celebration tea at eastwood park 1.30 Pm for 2.00 Pm start n June 26th practice the joy of the garden – basket arrangement n July 19th members day lunch, entertainment & kay evans competitions. Doors open 12 noon for 12.30 Pm n July 31st practice in the green – foliage arrangement Secretary jill morgan 01454 228408 jillmorgan36@btinternet.Com

'Ezzy's Wish To Walk' at The Swan n Friday 7 July 7pm Trades People Auction.

n Saturday 15 July 4pm Ezzy's Bushtucker Swan Trial (entry fee applies) n Sunday 27 August 2-6pm Ezzy's 'Fanks' Fun Day - Live Music - BBQ. 7pm Ezzy's Got Talent and Karaoke n Saturday 2 September Ezzy's Farewell Thank You Ball - Marriott Bristol

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 Every Friday 9am to 12pm Coffee Morning with all proceeds to the Charity of the Month n Every Sunday Free Jukebox.

Plus Live Music every Friday and Saturday evening from 9.15pm Swan Charity of the Month Thornbury Lights Association 'That's all folks'

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 Wednesday

July, 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

n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes Thursday n 8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only).

01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com

What’s on at Thornbury Library *Connect *Keep Learning *Be Active *Notice *Give #Fivewaystowellbeing Free Event Wednesday 5 July 3.30-5.30 Drop in to discover easy tips for improving your wellbeing and lifting your mood, with Curo Community Connectors. Try a free 20min Mindfulness taster session in a small group – book your free place in advance online at: bit.ly/ mflTh or in person at Thornbury Library.

Watch the #FiveWaysToWellbeing slideshow on the library screen – showing throughout the summer during library opening hours.

South Gloucestershire Council One Stop Shop Office Has Left Thornbury Library The council’s One Stop Shop service, which operated inside

Thornbury Library for the past three years, closed permanently on Friday 30 June. Alternative One Stop Shop offices are situated in Patchway, Yate and Kingswood, full address details at www. southglos.gov.uk/contactus. You can also report a range of issues from missed bin collections to pot holes online at www.southglos. gov.uk/reportit Storytime & Rhymetime For Babies Pre-SchoolerS Join us in June & July for Storytime until Monday 17 July 2.15pm-2.45pm & Rhymetime until Friday 21 July 11.15am11.45am before we take a break over the summer. Toilets & nappy changing facility available – ask a member of staff. Breast-feeding welcome. It’s a great way to meet other local parents and new faces are always welcome – and

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

it’s FREE! No booking required, just turn up! We look forward to welcoming everyone back after the summer from Monday 4 September.

Animal Agents, Summer Reading Challenge 2017 Starts Saturday 15 July and runs until 16 September.

It’s FREE to join! Best suited to 4-11 year olds. Read six library books to get your medal and certificate, picking up goodies including stinky stickers, bookmark and wristband along the way. Libraries are also holding free activities throughout the summer to help children complete the challenge including: Bristol Zoo workshops, ‘Meet a guide dog’ visits and craft sessions. Go to www.southglos. gov.uk/childrenslibrary or drop in to your local library to find out

more. See Facebook for latest updates.

Macmillan Cancer Support And Information Service Friday 21 JULY 1.30pm-3.30pm Do you have questions about cancer, for you or someone you care for?

Drop-in to Thornbury Library to see the Macmillan Cancer Information Specialist. This is a free service, no booking is required.

Like us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/sgloslibraries Follow us on Twitter: @SouthGlosLibs Looking for opening times, service information or contact details?

See our website www. southglos.gov.uk/libraries

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

n REVIEWS

19

n NEWS

Outline plans for new homes on Tytherington fields met with objections

The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The NightTime: Bristol Hippodrome ADAPTED from the awardwinning novel, Curious… the stage version (also awardwining) premiered in 2012. It’s fundamentally the story of a family breakdown, as witnessed by its young protagonist, 15-year-old Christopher Boon.

Christopher has autism, perhaps, though his difference is never named, and it’s through the staging and production of this incredible, absorbing play that we come to inhabit his world.

Bristol Hippodrome is transformed into a giant cube, grid patterns, like squaredpaper, over all of its sides, with bright white edges, depicting the world as the boy sees it. He draws chalk faces and circles on the floor – they appear on the walls, rain is bright streaks of light, a slap is a flash of lightning, numbers and letters fall like snow in a whirlwind – it’s all black and white, and Christopher always tells the truth.

Wellington, a neighbour’s dog, is found dead, killed with a garden fork. The boy uses his detective skills to investigate.

The plot evolves through

conversations with the boy’s special school teacher, who is reading the book Christopher has written, which becomes a play, which we are watching. As they talk, Christopher builds a trainset, slowly, scene by scene.

The first half ends with a magical moment where the toy train starts moving of its own accord, and the windows of the buildings he’s placed along the track suddenly light up.

The curtains never come down - through the interval we watch stage hands clearing the space, placing the white blocks that are used as scenery, chatting across clipboards.

The second half features a journey, from Swindon, via unknown streets, train and underground, into London. Jostling commuters, cacophonous roaring of crowds - cast members move slickly in perfect synchronisation – it’s all a gorgeous piece of choreography. A highlight is in the light and dark and red lights and noise of a tube journey, where Christopher is lifted high by 2 commuters, and runs around the walls.

The boy’s logic and intonations of speech feel authentic, and we come to inhabit his world, so his challenges become ours. It’s an intense, chaotic, overwhelming world, which logic and numbers can sooth. And a cameo by the most adorable puppy, near the end of the show, proves love and connection is possible.

Outstanding.

Beccy Golding

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

OBJECTIONS are already being lodged against outline plans to build about 29 homes on a site in Tytherington.

An application submitted on behalf of Resolved Developments proposes building detached, semidetached and terraced houses on land that currently consists of two arable fields west of Stowell Hill, alongside an area of hardstanding occupied by metal sheds or containers and a small stone building.

The document said the proposal was for a “sustainable location appropriate for residential development” and would help meet a need for new homes in South Gloucestershire.

It claimed the development would “enhance the vitality of the village and

maintain its appeal for both existing and new residents”, said it had been designed to minimise the effect on the conservation area and be a natural extension of the village.

But objections raised include concern about increased traffic on unsuitable rural roads if the development goes ahead.

There has also been criticism that the developers pointed to nearby Thornbury to provide services for the new residents, claiming that made the scheme unsustainable.

Objectors said with so much house building in Thornbury itself, the town was struggling to cope with a rise in its own population when it came to GP services and schools.

• Eye Examinations • Screening for Diabetes, Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration • Retinal Photography • Designer Frames

• • • • •

3D RETINAL SCAN

Rimless Designs Kids Frames Prescription Sunwear Contact Lenses Sports Eyewear and much more...

1/ Price 2

OCT Scan Mention this advert to claim a Half Price OCT Scan with your sight test

NORVILLE OPTICIANS THORNBURY 6 Horseshoe Lane, Thornbury, South Gloucestershire BS35 2AZ TEL: EMAIL:

01454 418366

thornbury@norville-opticians.co.uk

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

NO Thornbury ad.indd 1

16/05/2017 13:14

thornburyvoice

20

n NEWS

July, 2017

Fourth year for Frampton Festival ORGANISERS of Frampton Cotterell’s annual festival are promising another entertaining family day out. Preparations are almost complete for the local event which offers a host of attractions and live music in Centenary Field.

The free festival takes place on Saturday 15 July in Centenary Field, Mill Lane, starting at 2.00pm and finishing at 10.00 with the lighting of the parish beacon followed by a fire work display.

The festival committee have been organising the event since January. Professor Panic’s Circus returns, along with a variety of fairground rides, engine rides, and a flight

simulator.

The festival opens with the Thornbury Brass Band, and events include a fun dog show.

Musical entertainment will be provided by Kirris Riverse,

Hicktown Breakout, Ashton, with local band Elevation rounding off the festival.

The committee would welcome a few additional helpers on the day to ensure that the

festival runs smoothly and safely and any volunteers should contact info@framptonfestival. co.uk Well behaved dogs are welcome at the festival.

Hare over to special trails this summer THERE have been gorillas, Gromits and now this summer hares. Families have the chance to hunt down over 80 giant hares that have been placed around the Cotswolds from Morton in the Marsh down to Bristol.

Four of the individually painted hares are in Chipping Sodbury, with others in Berkely, Rangeworthy and Hawkesbury Upton.

In Chipping Sodbury, locals

are celebrating with a mini Hare trail of their own. Both of the free family activities run until Sunday 10th September.

Sodbury Chamber of Commerce are behind the town’s own trail, with hares placed mostly along the High Street.

The animals have been decorated by artists and schoolchildren amongst others.

Of the four large hares, The Tiger That Came to Town will

be also be visiting the South Gloucestershire Show over the first weekend of August.

More details of the Cotswold Hare Tail can be found on their website; http://www. cirencestermarchharefestival. org.uk Follow the Chipping Sodbury Hare Trail on Facebook at ‘Sodbury Summer Search’

SALES & RENTALS VENTER TRAILERS UK LTD UNIT 3 ORCHARD COURT ARMSTRONG WAY YATE BS37 5GW

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

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

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

21

n NEWS

Event to help rural businesses and groups seek out funding and support BUSINESSES and community organisations in rural parts of South Gloucestershire can learn about available funding and support at an event in the district.

The West of England Rural Development Network will hold a funding surgery for farmers, local groups, existing and start-up businesses, on Thursday, June 29.

Those attending will be able to find out about the current funding and support available, including European funding, to help

develop businesses and community services.

Representatives of organisations such as the Rural Payments Agency, Business West, the West of England Rural Network, South Gloucestershire Council, the Forestry Commission and Natural England will be at the event in the Memorial Hall, Rangeworthy, from 4pm6pm.

The surgery is free to attend but visit https:// www.facebook.com/ westofenglandrdp for more information.

Own a local business?

Please get in touch …

www.Trusted-Traders.co.uk

Comments invited on plans to improve health and well-being EFFORTS are being made to improve the health of everyone living and working in South Gloucestershire.

A draft plan has been drawn up, setting out four key areas considered to make the greatest difference to the health and wellbeing of residents and workers.

They cover education, mental health, nutrition and people’s environment.

Matthew Riddle, chairman of South Gloucestershire Council, heads up a health and well-being board that brings together local organisations with an interest in health matters.

He has urged people to get involved in a consultation exercise that will run until August 21, through which the public can make comments on each of the subjects prioritised for action.

He said: “It is important that we focus on areas which can make a real difference to

everyone’s health and wellbeing.”

One of the aims of the blueprint is to improve educational attainment and raise aspirations through the promotion of health and wellbeing in schools and colleges.

The board also wants to see good nutrition, physical activity and healthy weight at all ages, as well as measures leading to positive mental health and wellbeing throughout life.

A fourth aim is to “maximise the potential of our built and natural environment to enable healthy lifestyles and prevent disease”.

Details of how to comment are available online at www. southglos.gov.uk/hws and copies of consultation material are also available in libraries and onestop shops.

Feedback from the consultation will be used by the board to shape the final plan.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Can you help please? We may pay you!

Trusted Traders is new to this area, and needs your help.

We are looking for your local business recommendations.

They will be invited to join Trusted Traders, and when they do, we send you £20 as a “Thank you” for helping.

Visit our website, and use the ‘Contact us’ form to get in touch.

www.Trusted-Traders.co.uk Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

THE SEASON WHERE WE CAN MAKE YOUR PROPERTY WISHES COME TRUE

Call us today for a FREE market appraisal

01454 279734

Market your property with us and we’ll spring into action by giving you the right tools to help maximise your property exposure, including a free property website.

Share in our success of selling homes

www.lisacosta.co.uk Lisa Costa March Newsletter.indd 10

28/02/2017 14:21

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

23

n NEWS

Pigs bring home the bacon at the ‘Ham National’ ORGANISERS at the South Gloucestershire Show are putting on a race with a difference.

Pigs might not fly, but they will certainly be going at a fair lick as they trot through the main arena at the show.

The pig race is raising money for the show’s nominated charity, Meningitis Now. The pigs are the family pets of Joseph Fossett, who also owns camels, and have been trained to race.

The commentary will be supplied by Joel Dommett, the comedian who appeared on ITV’s I’m A Celebrity over the winter.

Darren Hawkins, the organiser of the show that runs over the 5 and 6 August, said: ”Animals are always a core part of the Show so this year it is exciting to announce the Ham National.”

Driving the length of Britain is just in a days work for stroke survivor A MAJOR stroke in 2014 was never going to put the brakes on Eddie Ruskin’s passion for cars and driving. The Yate man is now embarking on a challenge that will raise funds for the charity which helped in his recovery after his stroke at the age of 45.

Eddie plans to drive the 874 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats in just one day to raise money for Bristol Area Stroke Foundation.

The stroke left him with paralysis on his left side and, whilst he can now walk with the aid of a leg brace and walking stick, his left arm still has very little movement.

Eddie’s determination to be able to drive again led him to complete the training and reassessment needed to regain his licence, and he has also qualified as an advanced driver with the Institute of Advanced Motoring.

He still feels that he doesn’t have his previous energy levels, and this fundraising challenge

is as much about proving his stamina as it is about indulging

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

his passion.

On the journey in a specially

Mitsubishi Mirage, he will have Andrew Heaton alongside him, who is another advanced driver, acting as navigator and keeping him alert.

Eddie said; “I was successful in being able to return to driving, which has given me my life back.

I am now back at work and enjoying my independence once again. My story is one of success, but for many other stroke survivors, theirs is one of life changing results that leave them partially or totally dependant on others.”

The Bristol Area Stroke Foundation charity supports over 700 people every year to recover from a stroke, but was recently advised that a large part of their financial support is now under threat due to local authority and NHS cut backs.

You can support Eddie’s fundraising challenge by searching for his justgiving page online.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

24

n NEWS

Men due in court on burglary and theft charges A MAN from Thornbury was one of two people to be charged after a series of shed break-ins around the Berkeley area.

Gloucestershire police said Kirk Jarvis, 36, of Badger Road, had been charged with four counts of burglary from a dwelling and theft.

Damian Galliford, 22, of no fixed address, had also been charged with four counts of burglary from a dwelling and theft.

Both men were bailed and are due to appear in court on July 6.

July, 2017

Police appeal made after Thornbury woman foils phone scam PEOPLE with vulnerable elderly relatives, friends or neighbours have been asked to help prevent them falling victim to telephone scams after a Thornbury woman nearly lost £7,000.

The appeal comes after police worked with South Gloucestershire trading standards officers and local bank staff to stop the 88-year-old woman having the cash removed from her account.

The woman contacted the police to report being bombarded with telephone calls at her home near the town.

She said the callers initially claimed to need her bank details in order to process a repayment.

Although she became suspicious and cancelled her bank cards, she then started getting calls claiming to be from

bank security staff investigating the earlier incident and seeking personal details.

The woman became frightened of answering the phone due to the volume of calls and the pressure she was being put under but when confiding in a neighbour, was urged to call the police.

Two officers and trading standards officer Neil Derrick took her to her bank, where they discovered internet banking had been set up on her account without her knowledge - she also did not have any internet access.

As a result, bank staff immediately prevented a transfer of £7,000 from her account.

PC Lee Bainbridge said: “These telephone scammers can be very convincing and very persistent. We’re glad that this

lady felt able to speak to her neighbour about these calls.

“We know that people who don’t have someone looking out for them can be more likely to fall victim to these scammers, some of whom callously persuade them that they are friends.

“It’s really important to remember that your bank will never ask for your PIN, or ask you to transfer cash ‘as part of an investigation’.

“If you’re concerned about a caller who is asking for personal or bank details, hang up and call your branch from the number in the phone book or on your bank statement.”

Suspected fraud can be reported online at www. actionfraud.police.uk

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

Afternoon tea

Will Writing & Estate Planning

Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at Eastwood Park this summer, or for something a bit special, why not have it with Pimm’s or Prosecco?

Served

Mon-Thurs Starting at just

£9.95pp

A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out –

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.

with a view

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

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

Eastwood Park, Falfield, Gloucestershire, GL12 8DA 01454 262818 events@eastwoodpark.co.uk www.eastwoodpark.co.uk

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

25

n NEWS

Hedgehog charity in focus at fundraiser

PEOPLE are to get the chance to photograph a hedgehog and an owl in a fundraising event for Hedgehog Rescue in Yate.

Local photographer Richard McDonough is joining forces with L.Energy Assessor to raise money for equipment for the charity as he celebrates ten years in business.

Chipping Sodbury Baptist

Church will play host to a free family event on 2 August between 2pm and 4pm. People will get the opportunity to meet those behind Wild Owl TV and Hedgehog Rescue and to take photos of an owl and a hedgehog.

Photo credit to RichMcD Photography

Do you love reading?

DO you love reading? Would you like to connect with others in your community and share your love of reading with them?

South Gloucestershire Library Service is taking part in an innovative community project - called South West: Region of Readers - with six South West library services.

With support from Arts Council England, the project is being developed with The Reader, an award-winning charitable social enterprise working to connect people with great literature through shared reading.

As part of the project the library service is looking for Reader Leaders for Staple Hill Library. Reader Leaders would facilitate a weekly shared reading group at the library. They would receive full training from the Reader and on-going support from the Reader and the library.

A meeting will take place at Staple Hill Library on Tuesday June 27 from 2pm to 3.30pm to introduce the project and explain more about the volunteering opportunities available.

The meeting will give an introduction to The Reader and Shared Reading with a special shared reading taster session to see what it’s all about.

If you are interested in attending, please email the library at staplehill.library@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 868006.

If you are interested in volunteering but are unable to make the meetings, please call Samantha Weaver from the Reader on 07812 238 532 for an informal conversation about becoming a Reader Leader.

at our lovely house in Easter Compton

21435 ABF Ad Half Page 180x120 AW.indd 1 Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

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

thornburyvoice

26

July, 2017

n VIEW FROM THORNBURY AND DISTRICT MUSEUM GLOUCESTERSHIRE Constabulary was only the second county police force to be established, dating from December 1839 when Anthony Lefroy was appointed chief constable.

It resulted in Thornbury becoming one of 30 towns and villages to have locally-posted

Thornbury’s police service police officers, to be followed by the arrival of a superintendent for the Sodbury, Thornbury and Marshfield district.

According to the 1841 census, Thornbury’s police station was in

The police station in High Street, Thornbury, which opened in 1860.

FREE WILL REVIEW MEETING @

Everyone should have the protection of a properly drafted Will:

Everyone should have the protecDon of a properly draFed Will: • • Appointing AppoinDng guardians for children guardians for children • Keeping up with changes to your family and friends • Keeping up with changes to your family and friends • ProtecDon against care home fees against care home fees • • Protection Avoiding unnecessary taxes and family disputes

the area near the junction of St John Street and St Mary Street, near where the Mumtaz restaurant (the former Plough pub) now stands, although the exact location is not known.

However, the census shows that Daniel Harrison was the police sergeant and he lived at the station with his wife, Charlotte, and their son, Eli. There were also three police constables - Edwin Riddiford, John Harrison and John Osman - at the premises on census night, as well as three boys and two men presumed to be held there for some wrongdoing.

Constable Riddiford subsequently rose through the ranks to become a sergeant in 1842 and a superintendent in Gloucester in 1850.

The police station appeared to have moved by 1851 to Pullins Green, to premises now housing a take-away.

But in 1859, after the police station and petty session court was described as being in a “miserable state” for magistrates, a private house for the Rolph family in High Street was bought for £750 to become the new court and police station.

The court opened in March 1860, when a report said: “The bench is so situated as to enable the magistrates to command the entire area without being

themselves subject to inconvenient collision.

“The space for the gentlemen of the law and the public is ample

- the press has been provided for in a comfortable corner, from which all that passes may be well seen and heard, and a desk which makes the record of the same an easy task.”

Most crimes dealt with in those days, apart from the occasional murder, were associated with drunkenness, petty thieving and domestic violence.

In 1881, 12-year-old Thomas Pearce was fined a shilling for knocking the heads off growing wheat belonging to James Ford and Luke Dixon, of Crossways, was fined £2 in 1892 for stealing hay from Thomas Anstey.

Charles Fenton was fined a shilling and ordered to pay costs in 1894 for driving a wheelbarrow on the footpath in Castle Street, while two boys, Frederick Rugman and Alfred Jefferies, were birched for stealing apples and walnuts.

A new police station was built in Rock Street in 1973 but the High Street premises remained as a court house until the mid-1980s, when cases were transferred to North Avon Magistrates Court in Yate, itself now closed.

Meanwhile, the old High Street police station has been the town hall for more than 20 years and in 2016, councillors welcomed police officers back to use an office in the building after the Rock Street station closed and was redeveloped for a complex of apartments.

Information and photographs courtesy of Thornbury and District Museum.

• Avoiding unnecessary taxes and family disputes

John and Michelle opened a year ago in Chipping Sodbury. Our aim is to make it easy and affordable. With us, we do the work for you. So there are no long forms to fill in. Instead our friendly service gives you all the help and guidance you John and Michelle opened a year ago in Chipping Sodbury. Our aim is need.

to make it easy and affordable. With us, we do the work for you. So

We specialise only Wills, Powers of AUorney and Probate – so you know you will get expert advice. So, please pop in or there are no long forms to fill in. Instead our friendly service gives you call to arrange your free ‘no obligaDon’ review meeDng.

all the help and guidance you need.

Office: We’re next to We specialise only Wills, Powers of Attorney and Probate – so you Nat West in Chipping know you will get expert advice. So, please pop in or Sodbury. call to arrange your free ‘no obligation’ review meeting.

Telephone: Call us on 01454 509 722

@

12 The Plain | Thornbury | South Gloucestershire | BS35 2BE | Telephone: 01454 412 278

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

A side view of the steps leading to the court room, from which important announcements were made.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

3 (8)

)

WORDSEARCH

SUDOKU

EASY for children

Can you find 57 battlefields vertically, horizontally or diagonally?

R R U L B R A N D Y W I N E N G O Q V

U B U L L R U N G P B C O M S O M M E

H R I A U P C G O R U R S A O A A Y R

R T B S P N L I O E R E A H L H H M D

Z G E C A C D O S S M C R T I A A H U

S U R A T M K I E A A Y A X X N M C N

J P L L A L P T G T B E T W A Z D O S

K E I O Y W R O R T S W O R D I U R I

L A N N Q U E B E C V I G T E O N U S

A R M A D A S R E S M O A N O E K N O

S L C T U J T U N L H K B R D U I H Z

C H U G S M O K K J O I N A N U R A B

R A L E P A N T O U E N L A S H K S U

A R L K R R B O Y N E A D O S T E Z L

V B O V N E F G P O E W M O H E I M G

E O D S I N Y H M A T A P A N I B A E

N R E L L G U G U E R N I C A Z Z Y Y

N L N G E O A K H N F A L K L A N D S

A E U N A L A M E I N A Y A C T I U M

4 1

1 4 2

Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.

SOLUTIONS

6) 4n (8)

n TAKE A BREAK

PUZZLES FOR EVERYONE Adult puzzles Children’s puzzles

TXT PERT

(7)

27

Across 1 Raleigh, 4 Alaska, 5 Missouri, 7 Iowa.

Down 1 Richmond, 2 Idaho, 3 Madison, 4 Austin, 6 Utah

Phu

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

A-MAZEING It’s not easy for the lone ant to join the other other ants by passing through the anthill.

But there is a passage.

Can you find it?

TXT PERT Okinawa

This month: US State capitals Ypres The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad Omaha

Clues Patay Across Harbor 1Pearl 7253444 (7) Ploetsi 4 252752 (6) 5Preston 64776874 (8) 7Quebec 4692 (4) Ravenna

2Ruhr is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F Saratoga 4 is G, H or I 5Shiloh is J, K, or L

(7)

Somme

6)

Surat

Down 1 74246663 (8) 2 43246 (5) 3 6234766 (7) 4 287846 (6) 6 8824 (4) 6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z

1

2 3 4

5

6

7

Sword Tobruk

S I M P L E cost effective ADVERTISING

From just

Tours

Ulundi

Verdun

WITH A LOCAL

services advert Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

This space could help promote your business to our readers

From only £15.75

.75 5 £1per month

PER MONTH

Give Richard a call on

01454 800 120 to book your space

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

28

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

SPORTS STARTS HERE

Thornbury back to winning ways Thornbury’s first XI traveled to Wiltshire to face a Biddestone side just one place below the visitors in the table, so a win was important to improve on the indifferent start to Thornbury’s season which had yielded just two wins out of six, Harry Watts reports.

The visitors were welcomed by glorious conditions and after winning the toss, captain Luke Davis happily chose to bat first.

The innings got off to a perfect start, with Dan Davis hitting 18 off the first over, which looked to have set the tone for the innings. Opening partner Tom Bradley, who is starting to get more familiar with his new role, adopted a more careful approach, allowing Davis to express himself. Their partnership was broken with the score on 41 though, with Davis departing LBW for 28.

All the batsman made starts, but none were able to convert into a substantial score. Tom Bradley made 13, Josh Slade managed 14, Danny Slade departed for 13 and captain Luke Davis was dismissed for 20, leaving Thornbury on 109-5 and

WET weather provided a dramatic day of racing at Castle Combe as competitors struggled to master the changing conditions.

Local racing driver Chris Hignell had an eventful day when he competed in the saloon car championship as well as the circuit’s new Hot Hatch challenge.

In largely dry conditions Hignell qualified for the saloon race in 31st overall and ahead of some of his class rivals. The Hot Hatch qualifying race was also completed in the dry, and a best ever time of 1m23.9 saw him start from 27th on the grid overall.

The race was very much a family affair with Hignell’s son-in-law Dan Burt competing in Chris’s old Fiat Punto and nephew Josh Hignell debuting in his fathers Citroen Saxo.

An Electrical issue with Hignell’s Peugeot as he was waiting to go out in the saloon race proved too difficult to repair in time to make the start. Despite the pouring rain the car was ready for its second outing.

The weather continued to pose problems for Hignell when his car overheated in the

in danger of not capitalising on the conditions.

Vishal Mamgai and James Tunnicliffe put on a handy 33-run partnership, with Vishal the enforcer and Tunnicliffe the aggressor. Tunnicliffe eventually departed for 28, caught after slicing a wide delivery.

This brought Marcus Wormwell to the crease, who along with Vishal, ran very hard and manipulated the field well.

It was easily Wormwell’s finest innings of the season, but he

eventually departed for a runa-ball 30. Thornbury finished on a competitive total of 214 all-out, with Vishal ending on an unbeaten 42.

Biddestone’s innings saw both Tom Bradley nor Luke Franklin struggling for rhythm, prompting a change to bring Tunnicliffe and Luke Davis into the attack. Luke Davis continued his fine form as of late to bowl Baker for 11, which put Biddestone on 38-1.

At the other end Tunnicliffe was struggling to get his line and

length right, and saw his opening over going for 17. However, he bounced back and trapped the dangerous looking Perry LBW for 46.

By this point, Biddestone had made 63 runs after just 11 overs, so Thornbury. Biddestone made it to 90, before Luke Davis had his second wicket, with Flynn departing caught and bowled.

For the rest of the innings, the fielding from Thornbury was outstanding in the heat.

Wickets fell at regular intervals, with Luke Davis picking up a third and Jack Gillett managing to claim three victims, which left Biddestone on 122-7.

The eighth wicket partnership was worth 33, before Knight (29) picked out Tom Bradley at long on from Danny Slade’s bowling.

Dan Davis bowled Khan for 2, but Biddestone managed to take it to the final over, needing 20 runs for an unlikely win.

There wasn’t to be final wicket drama, with Josh Morris bowling Boulton from the first ball, ending Biddestone’s innings for 194, sealing a 20-run victory.

Rain brings drama at Castle Coombe

assembly area prior to the Hot Hatch race. The delays worked in his favour however giving his team and friends time to put radiator weld fluid and water back into the system. In the nick of time he started the race from the pit lane.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

The conditions had an effect on most of the competitors and many suffered from fogged up windscreens but despite this Hignell brought the car home in 25th place (of 31 starters) and 3rd in class.

Chris Hignell said; ‘It was

a testing day but one that proved the value of teamwork and perseverance in these very competitive race series.’

The next round is on July 15th.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Gendall Photography

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

29

n SPORTS

Badminton Horse Trials rider thanks medics and rehab team

RIDER Emily Gilruth, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a cross-country fall at the recent Badminton Horse Trials is now recovering at home.

Emily had been airlifted to Southmead Hospital after the fall early on the cross-country track with Topwood Beau. The horse was not injured.

She was initially put into intensive care before being moved onto a neurological ward. She was later transferred to a hospital closer to her Cheshire home and then underwent an intensive programme at the Injured Jockeys Fund rehabilitation centre at Oakesy House in Lambourn.

Emily said: “Thank you so much to everyone for their kind thoughts, messages and support since my fall at Badminton Horse Trials.

“I owe a huge debt of thanks to everyone involved in the medical support at Badminton, the intensive care unit at Bristol’s Southmead Hospital, the Royal Stoke University Hospital and the team at Oaksey House, without whom I would not be so well on the road to recovery. Thank you all.”

thornburyvoice

SUMMERTIME

SPECIAL

SSmall m a l l Cod Co d &&CChips hips

££4.50 4 .5 0 ORDER ONLINE for COLLECTION or DELIVERY www.deepbluerestaurants.com Subject to availability. We reserve the right to withdraw this offer at anytime. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Self Storag

s Storage Solution

12/06/2017 13:12:23

3 01454 41334o.uk www.thornburyselfstorage.c

Issue 3 June, 2017 GES k yvoice.co.u UNDING VILLA Y AND SURRO www.thornbur THORNBUR agents MONTH IN Not so secret FREE EVERY

as nst developers proposed are New battle agai e new houses hundreds mor could be UP to 370 houseseld site on the as built on a greenfi of Thornbury the northern edge target continue to developers homes town.

1,000 new With nearly in or approved already built with others in the recent years - opponents fight planning pipeline for another are preparing scheme for latest the to stop of Gloucester farmland south from the town way Road on the and the A38. to Whitfield

at Thornbury Farm Three sites has Farm and Post more application Fields, Park The outline accounted for

by Bovis Homes have already with a decision been submittedof the Fear family, than 900 homes, on land west and members access roads off housing be for further Road yet to with two main proposed to of Gloucester Road Gloucester up decided. proposal for serve the site. plan, there will However, a Cleve Park, Under the at building, to 350 houses end of Morton a also be a community at the southern by South play areas and allotments, provided.

Way, was refusedCouncil recently. country park in house Gloucestershire The large rise causing a the town is page 10. building in of concern among story Full large amount council leaders. residents and

www.thornbur yvoice.co.u k FREE EVERY

needed

is recruiting Thornbury Library reading for the summer challenge PAGE 3

sees Ann Widdecombe double sees Strictly star Former MP and Olveston portrait PAGE 6

General election special candidates your Hear from all 13 PAGES 12 &

Thornbury Radio s? on the airwave

nd Ton up Hammo ry inspires Thornbu great start canoeing as

part of an activity

Cricket club to season PAGE 30

enjoy

WE'RE ONLINE TOO!

back

to get station Plans emerge g again broadcastin PAGE 23

Brownies enjoy Thornbury Girls from 4th section, Page 7. on the river.

Messing about details in our community weekend. More

26A High Street Thornbury BS35 2AH

thornburyvoice

Thornbury Voice lunch Ad 12x18cms.indd 1

Thornbury e

EVERY DAY IN JULY

www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

MONTH IN

June, 2017

THOR

Issue 3

Thornbury Self Storag

e

Storage Solution s

01454 413343

www.thornburyselfstorage.c o.uk

NBURY AND SURROUNDIN New battle agai G VILLAGES hundreds mor nst developers as e new houses Not so secret agents are proposed needed

UP to 370 houses built on a greenfi could be The outline northern edge eld site on the been submittedapplication has of Thornbury developers as continue to and members by Bovis Homes target the town. with two main of the Fear family, With nearly access roads Gloucester Road proposed off already built 1,000 new homes serve the site. or approved to recent years in - with others Under the plan, planning pipeline in the there will also be a community - opponents are preparing building, allotments, for another to stop the play areas and fight latest country park a farmland south scheme for provided. of Gloucester The large rise Road on the in house way from the building in to Whitfield the town and the A38. large amount town is causing a residents and of concern among council leaders.

Three sites Fields, Park at Thornbury Farm and Post have already accounted for Farm than 900 homes, more with a decision for further housing on land of Gloucester Road yet to west decided. be

However, a to 350 houses proposal for up at the southernat Cleve Park, end of Morton Way, was refused Gloucestershire by South Council recently.

Full story page 10.

Thornbury Library for the summer is recruiting reading challenge PAGE 3

Ann Widdecombe sees double Former MP and Olveston portraitStrictly star sees PAGE 6

General election special

Hear from all your candidates PAGES 12 & 13

Thornbury Radio on the airwave back s?

Plans emerge to get station broadcastin g again PAGE 23

Messing about weekend. Moreon the river. Girls from 4th Thornbury details in our Brownies enjoy community section, Page canoeing as 7. part of an

Ton up Hammo nd inspires Thornbu ry

activity

Cricket club enjoy great start to season PAGE 30

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

30

n SPORT WITH the summer season halfway through, Thornbury’s third and fourth teams are close to the top of their divisions. The second team has a real prospect of promotion, sitting currently top of their division, having picked up 44 out of a possible 50 points.

The experienced pair of Malcolm Worster and Mike Peatheyjohns, along with the Junior/Senior combination of Luke Johnson and Wayne Russell, have dominated their division. With support from other juniors, Leo Lazarides, Charlie Cook and Kyle Broadley, and the power hitting of Dan Spalding and Brendan Wilde, the second team plan to maintain their lead position through to the end of the season.

Of the four ladies’ teams, the first and fourth teams

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

Thornbury Tennis Club enjoys encouraging start to the season are currently mid-table. The second team comprising Rae Bezuidenhout, Carole Boulton, Linda Mantle and Claire Hawkins are in second place and are aiming to top their divisions by the end of the season. The third team is making progress after a slow start and is also in second place. They secured maximum points in their recent match against Rodway Hill II, despite Gill Harrison playing with a dislocated finger.

The junior pairing of Brooke Daunton and Susanna Ogden are making a serious contribution to these results.

Thornbury Lawn Tennis Club has 10 teams of 4 players in the LTA Avon Summer Leagues: six men’s and four ladies. The club has been represented by a total of 57 players so far.

You win some – You lose some!

Thornbury Men’s IV’s recently played Portishead Men’s III’s. Mark Wilkinson and Oscar Harrison, who have little experience playing league tennis, took the first set 6-3 but lost the second set 2-6 in a finely balanced contest. As it was drizzling, they agreed to play a championship tie break to decide the rubber, which Portishead won 7-5. On returning to the clubhouse, they were advised

they hadn’t completed the rubber as a championship tie break is the first to reach 10 points with a margin of 2. They were sent back on court in the drizzle and Mark & Oscar eventually won the championship tie break 12-10 turning the ‘loss’ into a win. As a result, Portishead IIIs and Thornbury IVs are second and third in their division.

Whilst this was underway, the second pair Hugh Boyes and Brian Jordan were leading 6-4 and 4-2 when Brian broke a string. His spare racquet didn’t feel the same and Hugh and Brian only managed to win

two further games in the rubber finishing 6-4, 4-6, 2-6. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the same backup as the pros!

Captions: Photo 1. Brooke Daunton & Suzanna Ogden have won 5 of their 6 matches playing for Thornbury Ladies II’s & III’s.

Photo 2. Mark Wilkinson & Oscar Harrison of Thornbury Mens IV’s dominating the net against Portishead IIIs. Photo 3. Luke Johnson playing in Thornbury Mens IIs recent victory against Henleaze IIs.

Strength in depth for Rockhampton as season gets into full swing ROCKHAMPTON Cricket Club is reaping the benefits of adding a fourth team to play Saturday cricket.

The newly formed fourth XI, led by Derek Newcombe, are fifth after 7 league games in Martin Berrill Divsion 2. The team is made up of a real mixture of both ages and abilities with a number of the U13 side playing alongside some of the clubs’ elder statesmen. In a recent match Derek Newcome and Ed Twemlow put on over 200 for the first wicket with Derek scoring 102 and Twemlow ending up unbeaten on 170.

The third XI, now led by captain Neil Bainbridge, currently sit in fourth place in the Martin Berrill Premier League having played six and won four with some impressive displays from youngsters Rob Gill and Davis Newcombe.

The second XI are fourth, having also played six and won four in the Gloucestershire County League Division 3. There have been notable performances from Simon Hore and Jeremy White with the bat and Chris Pearce with the ball.

The first team, captained

by Jack Spence are fourth in

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

the Glos/Wilts Prem2 division, having played six and won four including a victory over local rivals Thornbury. They are also through to the last 32 in the country in The National Village Knockout and travel to

the winners of the Hampshire Group, Liphook & Ripsley. In a team full of excellent cricketers, it's been the two Tyler brothers who have performed above and beyond expectations with over 1,000 runs in all competitions.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

July, 2017

n SPORT THORNBURY’S Development Squad won the club’s annual award of team of the year following a remarkable season that saw them win the GRFU U18 League and Cup double.

The team were presented with the club shield during the awards presentations at the annual dinner. Third Team captain Richard Daniell was a highly popular and thoroughlydeserved winner of Clubman of the Year. Finn Hitchcock, one of the unsung heroes of the Development Squad, was winner of the Junior Clubman of the Year. The young back rower finished the season on the flank for the Second XV. The Players’ Player of the Season was won by Jack Hussey with Harry Glew winning the John Broad Memorial Cup for Most Improved Player. Top try scorer was Connor Thurgood with 21 tries, the young threequarter also winning the Second Team Player of the Year award. Dan Green was Third Team Player of the Year and Ben Liddington, another of the Development Squad, winner of Third Team Young Player of

31

Youth takes the honours in Rugby Club’s awards night

The clubs junior section is thriving the Year. Jack Summerfield was Trainer of the Year.

Club colours were awarded to Rich Bennett, Rob Higgitt, James Murray and George Sheldon.

International Referee Wayne Barnes was speaker at the dinner with BBC Radio Bristol broadcaster Geoff Twentyman one of the guests.

At the club’s Annual General

Advert Thornbury Voice Thornbury’s for First XV 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

Meeting most of the previous committee were re-elected with former captain Jon Day becoming the club’s Rugby Manager. Liam Pemberton, Steve Allington and Richard Daniell continue as captains of the First, Second and Third XV’s respectively. Tom Luke takes over from Rob Higgitt as Head Coach with Higgitt continuing as one of the club coaches.

Jane Sprackman takes over from Janet Arrowsmith as Chair of the Ladies Committee, a role she will combine with her existing role of Treasurer.

Pre-season games have been agreed which will see Thornbury start with a home fixture against Reading Abbey on August 12th and will be followed by a trip to Chichester the following weekend in which the First and Second XV’s will take on their Sussex opponents in two games. The final preseason game is against Old Patesians in Cheltenham on Thursday 24th August.

Thornbury’s first league game is at Bideford on September 2nd with Launceston the first visitors to Rockhampton Road the following Saturday.

The fledgling Thornbury Rugby Ladies team will continue to train during the close season.

Any ladies interested in joining “The Thornbirds” should come along to The Chantry Fields at 7:00 on Wednesday evening

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

Specialist legal advice, right on your doorstep.

Choosing a solicitor doesn’t mean making a choice between convenience and expertise.

At Barcan+Kirby we’re perfectly placed to offer you both – all from our branch on your local High Street.

We’ve been advising businesses and individuals in Thornbury for over 20 years. Whether you’re buying a home, writing a Will or dealing with the affairs of a loved one, you can find specialist and experienced solicitors nearby.

If you have a family matter, we provide much more than just divorce advice - from prenups and cohabitation agreements, through to

financial disputes and child arrangement issues.

We can also advise grandparents and other family members.

Or if you need help with an employment or commercial matter, talk to us. A member of our team will see you in your local office – at a time that suits you.

Convenience is important. But with six offices across Bristol and South Gloucestershire, you can rest assured that you won’t have to travel far for expert legal advice.

Professional advice, simply stated.

Barcan+Kirby CLIFTON 199a Whiteladies Rd, Bristol BS8 2SB BEDMINSTER 31 North St, Bristol BS3 1EN KINGSWOOD 111/117 Regent St, Bristol BS15 8LJ HORFIELD 374 Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8TP QUEEN SQUARE 49/50 Queen Sq, Bristol BS1 4LW THORNBURY 36 High St, Thornbury BS35 2AJ

0117 325 2929

info@barcankirby.co.uk

This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. No: 568743.

www.barcankirby.co.uk

@barcankirby