Thornbury Voice March 2018

thornburyvoice www.thornburyvoice.co.uk

March, 2018 Issue 12

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Cash boost for school’s sixth form plans A CASH boost of £720,000 could help Thornbury’s Castle School get a new sixth form.

More than £2 million has been allocated in total to South Gloucestershire from the Land Release Fund to go towards unlocking council-owned land for housing.

The money is for nine projects in the district, including the school’s sixth form centre, currently in Gloucester Road.

There are long-held hopes of establishing a new

sixth form on the school’s main site in Park Road and the £720,000 could kick-start that scheme.

The Gloucester Road site could then be sold to developers, with the proceeds helping to fund the rest of the sixth form project.

John Goddard, South Gloucestershire’s Cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “Some of these proposals are at an early stage and all are dependent upon obtaining planning consent.”

Future looking brighter for Alveston school Inspector says Marlwood School is taking effective action PAGE 2

Costing the future for Armstrong Hall Council outlines new options ahead of public meeting PAGE 2

Save our pub!

Alveston villagers campaign to keep the Cross Hands PAGE 3 Blooming marvellous!

Thornbury is to compete in the national Britain in Bloom competition.

Organisers (seen here last year with judges) are now looking for sponsorship and volunteers to help with this year’s planting.

More, page 4.

Celebrating its anniversary with flowers Thornbury Horticultural Society hits 60 PAGE 15

Footballers top the league Thornbury Town win crunch match PAGE 27

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March, 2018

n NEWS

School taking effective action to get out of special measures EFFECTIVE action is being taken at Marlwood School to remove it from special measures, an Ofsted inspector has said.

The Alveston school was placed in special measures after an inspection last May and recently underwent its first monitoring examination after that assessment.

Inspector Andrew Lovett said: “Having considered all the evidence, I am of the opinion that at this time leaders and managers are taking effective action towards the removal of special measures.”

He said improvement plans were “fit for purpose” but he “strongly” recommended that the school did not seek to appoint newly qualified teachers.

Mr Lovett also highlighted continuing poor attendance by some pupils and said it had not

been addressed with “sufficient vigour” by school leaders.

The 2017 Ofsted inspection said Marlwood had to improve leadership and management at all levels, improve teaching and raise pupils’ achievement, and improve the personal development, behaviour and welfare of students.

Mr Lovett said the senior leadership team had changed substantially since then and there had also been a significant turnover of staff, including middle leaders.

He said: “This turbulence has meant that some classes are currently being taught by temporary staff.

“The school has experienced

a significant fall in the number of pupils on roll over the last few years. Consequently, it is revising its staffing structure.”

He said headteacher James Pope recognised the need to address issues of underperformance of staff immediately and he was tackling them “robustly”.

He had balanced increased expectation with appropriate support and as a result, staff were united and motivated in their desire to improve the school’s outcomes for its pupils.

There was also a comprehensive programme of training in place for teachers.

Mr Lovett said at the time

of the inspection, a significant proportion of parents were critical of the school but they were now significantly more positive about all aspects of its work.

He said: “The quality of teaching, learning and assessment is not of a consistently good standard. This prevents pupils from making all the progress they are capable of.

“However, there are signs of improvement. The level of expectation of what pupils can achieve is now higher in a good proportion of classes. Where this is the case, pupils are responding well.”

Regarding GCSE results, he said pupils made less progress than those in other schools in the 2017 exams but students currently at the school were starting to show better progress.

Costs revealed for Armstrong Hall options REBUILDING the Armstrong Hall on its current site will cost £4.9 million compared to an estimated £2.85 million for refurbishment of the premises.

The figures were released by Thornbury Town Council as it launched further consultation on the future of the community facility and ahead of a promised public meeting on March 1.

The hall has been the town’s main performance venue for many years but is in desperate need of an upgrade.

Local people, including the many users of the complex, were angry when only two options were put forward as ways of tackling the problem.

One involved renovating and extending the hall while the second would see a large

hall extension built onto the Turnberries community building in Bath Road to create a performance area with stage, changing rooms and extra community meeting space.

Under the second option, the Armstrong Hall site would be sold for redevelopment, with the proceeds used to part-fund the Turnberries’ extension.

In response to the public outcry, the third proposal of a complete rebuild was added, to include retention of the historic Cossham Hall and accommodating the town museum, while having a bigger and more flexible hall, improved performance space and extra capacity.

All proposals have now gone back out for consultation, with

comments accepted up to March 9.

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

They also asked for a public meeting to debate the options and that is taking place in the Cossham Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 1.

Under the Turnberries option, owner South Gloucestershire Council said it would offer a 50 year lease in return for £4 million of investment into the site, with further negotiations about managing and operating the facility to take place.

Town mayor Helen Harrison,

who is also chairwoman of the Armstrong Hall Trust, said after considering that offer, together with further information about the design and costs of all options: “The trustees and councillors now favour retaining and improving the Armstrong Hall facilities on the current site.”

Information displays can be viewed in the town hall and Armstrong Hall during the consultation and a drop-in session will be held on Saturday, February 24, from 10am-1pm in the St Mary’s Centre.

A decision on which option to progress is anticipated to be taken on March 20.

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March, 2018

3

n NEWS A CAMPAIGN has been launched to save the Cross Hands pub in Alveston from the bulldozers.

As reported in last month’s Thornbury Voice, a plan has been drawn up to demolish the pub and build four detached homes on the site.

The Cross Hands, which has been closed for some time, could now become an asset of community value (ACV) after a formal application to have it registered was submitted.

It was one of the steps taken by local people who are determined to see the premises re-open as a pub. They will also ask local residents what they would like to see in the pub if it is saved.

But the housing proposal

by Hawkfield Homes will still have to be determined by South Gloucestershire Council, along with the ACV application.

If the pub is registered as an ACV, the community will have six months to put a bid together should the landowner ultimately decide to sell.

Already, dozens of objections to the development on the corner

Bid made to save village pub from housing scheme plot of The Down and Strode Common have been lodged.

Dave Osborne, who started the campaign to keep the pub, said: “As an ex-regular user of the Cross Hands, I strongly object to losing forever what has in the past, and could be again, the hub of the local community.

“For many years it was a fantastically supported meeting point for the surrounding community and with a small degree of investment, could be a well supported venue again.”

Other objectors said a village the size of Alveston needed a social gathering place more than it needed further expensive housing and that its loss would leave a gap in many people’s lives.

Residents said they were fond of the building and that it was already missed by the

Police target anti-social behaviour after eggthrowing incidents ANTI-social behaviour hotspots in Thornbury are being patrolled by police after they received reports of eggs and other items being thrown at homes.

Some of the householders affected by the incidents were elderly, who were left upset and scared.

The Streamleaze and Eastland Road areas of the town were among areas targeted by the hooligans, with four incidents reported on one night alone.

Thornbury police are now asking parents and carers to check on their children.

Neighbourhood PCSO Sheryl Drewitt said: “Some of the residents affected by this are elderly and have found it very frightening.

“We’ve already spoken with local shops about being wary of selling eggs to children and we’d ask parents and carers to make sure they’re not taking eggs from home.

“We’re also working with the local schools, housing providers and South Gloucestershire Council’s anti-social behaviour team to address the problem.”

Officers want anyone with information about such behaviour to contact the neighbourhood team online through the Thornbury and Alveston beat page on www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or report it by calling 101.

community, including local cricket and football teams who met there.

The housing application stated there had been a high

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thornburyvoice April deadline

Our April edition will be going to print on March 19. To ensure your news or letter is included, please contact us by March 14. Advertisers are also asked to contact us by the same date.

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Richard Drew

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

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

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

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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

March, 2018

n NEWS

Bloomin’ great result earns Thornbury a place in national final THORNBURY’S award winning success in the South West in Bloom competition has given it an entry into the 2018 nationwide Britain in Bloom challenge.

It will be among 76 places in the country to be judged not only on horticultural displays but also for wildlife friendly features, wide community participation and efforts to help tackle climate change.

All those chosen have excelled in their regional rounds, earning the right to bid for UK-wide honours.

Since the Thornbury in Bloom team was formed in 1991, it has won a string of awards and trophies at regional level, as well as being named best in category in the national contest in 2009.

Many gold awards have been presented to the town and last year it won the Champion of Champions class in the South West in Bloom competition, which allowed it to go into this year’s prestigious national event.

It will be judged in the eight-strong town category, where opposition will come from the likes of Tewkesbury, Amersham, Linlithgow and Morpeth.

As part of the team’s campaign, it needs to raise £20,000 to maintain its standard of planting so will be looking for sponsorship, as well as organising fund raising events.

It also has plans for new projects, from a meadow of remembrance to the planting up of two boats, and has adopted a theme of bugs, bees and butterflies, with a number of blue heart symbols to be used to identify areas aimed at helping wildlife.

Two phases of judging will take place in the town in the summer - the first in mid-July for the South West regional awards and the second in early August for the national contest.

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March, 2018

5

n NEWS A LONG-held ambition to create a new sixth form for Thornbury’s Castle School could be realised after the announcement of help to unlock council-owned land for housing.

Dominic Raab, the housing minister, has announced a £45 million cash injection into key community projects around the UK to help kick-start the building of thousands of new homes.

South Gloucestershire has been allocated £2.1 million from that sum for a total of nine projects around the district, including £720,000 for the sixth form site in Gloucester Road.

The money will come from the Land Release Fund, with a total of 79 projects nationwide receiving funding to support the building of up to 7,280 homes on council-owned sites.

The scheme operates by using the cash to overcome barriers which would otherwise make land unusable for development.

Projects could involve the removal of asbestos, building roads or providing utilities.

The Castle School sixth form - also used by Marlwood

Hopes raised of new sixth form centre School students - is on South Gloucestershire Council land that could be sold and used for homes if a new complex was built on the main school site in Park Road.

Proceeds from the sale would then be added to the Government funding to help pay for the sixth form centre.

But both the school development and any housebuilding would have to get planning permission.

The Land Release Fund was oversubscribed when bids were made. Each was assessed on value for money, innovation and the contribution to wider Government housing objectives.

John Goddard, South Gloucestershire’s Cabinet member for corporate resources, said: “We welcome this announcement, which earmarks significant Government

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

funding that will strengthen projects to build much needed new homes in South Gloucestershire.

“Some of these proposals are at an early stage and all are dependent upon obtaining planning consent.

“The land involved is council-owned and the funding is intended to help release a number of sites to provide a mixture of affordable and open market housing.

“By increasing supply, we aim to reduce the pressure on the local housing market, making it easier for people to afford to rent or buy in South Gloucestershire.”

The successful bids will

release land for homes by March 2020. Elsewhere in Thornbury, £30,000 has been allocated for land in Eastbury Close.

Other allocations include £100,000 for Woodlands in Tytherington and £230,000 for Station Road, Yate.

There are also two sites in Frampton Cotterell - Woodend Road (£175,000) and Lower Stone Close (£20,000).

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

March, 2018

Top award for hospital consultant at head of emergency medicine research SOUTHMEAD Hospital consultant Dr Jason Kendall has received an award in recognition of his contribution to emergency medicine research.

He has been named emergency medicine principal investigator of the year, getting his accolade from the National Institute for Health Research and Royal College of Emergency Medicine.

Dr Kendall, who lives near Thornbury, leads research in the hospital’s emergency department and is in his 20th year as a consultant at North Bristol NHS Trust.

He said his greatest achievement involved the development of a painkiller for children with acute pain, which

provides pain relief through the nose.

It was finally licensed for use in young patients in 2016 and is now used in most emergency departments in the UK. Dr Kendall said seeing the results of research in emergency medicine was particularly satisfying as it often involved patients who were very unwell, such as those who had suffered a heart attack, stroke or trauma.

He said: “Although research in the emergency department can be challenging because patients present in crisis, the outcomes from this type of research are worth the effort because it can make an immediate positive impact on patient care.”

Dr Jason Kendall

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March, 2018

7

n NEWS

Householders to pay 5.99 per cent more on council tax bills COUNCIL tax bills in South Gloucestershire will rise by 5.99 per cent from April.

It means householders in a band D property will be charged £1,441.07 as a contribution to council-provided services - with extra sums to be added on for the police and fire service, as well as parish precepts.

The increase is made up of a 2.99 per cent general rise and a further three per cent as an adult social care levy.

The approximate £9.7 million raised through the levy will be spent on services supporting the most vulnerable adults.

But South Gloucestershire Council said it only partially

covered the extra cost of social care resulting from increased demand and market prices.

During 2018-19, the council will spend nearly £216 million on services, with a further £202 million to be distributed to schools through a dedicated Government grant.

But it warned that while its finances were projected to remain in balance for the coming three years, that was only by using reserves set aside for that purpose and making more savings.

However, a range of extra spending commitments were included in the council’s budget, including about £7.7 million

more for the Children, Adults and Health Department over and above the adult social care levy.

There is also funding for a two per cent pay increase for staff, whose salaries have been frozen or capped at one per cent for the past seven years.

Meanwhile, a 50 per cent council tax discount for homes that have been empty for at least two years will be removed.

Council leader Matthew Riddle said: “I know that some will feel the squeeze of rising council tax but while we continue to look for ways to be as efficient and cost effective as possible, we must find ways to replace the funding which used to come

from Government and to meet rising demand for services.”

Liberal Democrats said the budget indicated there would be more than £36 million in cuts to the budget between 2019 and 2022 but the nature of those cuts were unspecified.

The group’s deputy leader, Councillor Clare Young, said: “South Gloucestershire has already tightened its belt pretty damn hard in recent years.

“There will come a point, not very long from now I fear, when there will be simply nothing left to cut.”

Town council sets latest budget CIVIC leaders in Thornbury have set their budget for the next financial year, pledging to invest in a range of projects, services and facilities to benefit the town.

Expenditure of £818,000 has been agreed, of which £623,000 will be met through the council tax and the rest from income, grants and use of council reserves.

It is a rise of 4.9 per cent when compared to last year’s budget but due to the number of new homes recently completed, the average band D household will pay £128.29 per year to the town council through a parish precept, which is £3.53 less than last year.

The amount will be added onto the main council tax bills to be sent out by South Gloucestershire Council.

Town mayor Helen Harrison said: “Thornbury Town Council is continuing to make significant improvements to local services and is striving to give local people a greater say in the future development of the town.

“We believe this budget strikes the right balance between investing in our future, much needed facilities and providing value for money for local tax payers” Among projects for the coming year is a new play area at the Mundy Playing Fields.

There will also be ongoing support to produce a neighbourhood plan for Thornbury, which will give local people a greater say on how new development takes place.

The council further said it would continue to support a range of other local groups and organisations through grants, including youth services provided by Krunch at Turnberries, the Thornbury in Bloom project, Citizens Advice Bureau, the volunteer centre and local events such as the annual carnival and arts festival.

n LETTER THE Big Spring Clean Thornbury needs a good tidy up – the winter winds have blown rubbish everywhere!

Litterbuster members invite you to join them for a session of litter clearing – they say it is surprisingly therapeutic, and provides some healthy exercise in the fresh air.

They are meeting at the Social Services Car Park, on Gloucester Road next to the Castle School Sixth Form, at 9.30 on Saturday 3 March.

If you can’t make that date, there is another opportunity on Saturday 7 April, again at 9.30, but at Turnberries, near Rock Street Car Park.

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n NEWS

March, 2018

No time to rest for fund raising young actors YOUNG actors danced for two-and-a-half hours to help fund their Easter production of Les Miserables.

The 45 students of the Northavon School of Drama, who perform under the banner of Northavon Youth Theatre Company (NYTC), had already completed a rehearsal of the school edition of the show before launching into the danceathon.

The sponsored event was devised and led by choreographer Danielle Shadbolt, with the help of fellow choreographer Ella Manley, and featured six genres of dance - salsa, rock ’n’ roll, ballet, line, modern and musicals.

It raised £550 through sponsorship and donations, which will go towards the estimated £20,000 cost of the production.

Further donations can be made via the NYTC’s Just Giving page.

Other fund raising by the students, who are aged 11-18, includes bag packing at the Asda store in Cribbs Causeway, selling homemade cupcakes and organising a musical theatre quiz night.

Les Miserables will be staged in the Armstrong Hall, Thornbury, from March 27-

31 at 7.30pm nightly.

Tickets can be bought online at www. nytc.org.uk or by phoning 07980 543691.

They will also be on sale in Cadman Wealth Planning on The Plain on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from March 13,

from 10am-1pm.

The latest show comes 13 years after the company won a coveted Rose Bowl for best youth production when it first performed the slightly abridged version of the musical.

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March, 2018

9

n NEWS

Folk concert to help with hall redevelopment

musician Stan Stennett.

He tours with The Schmoozenbergs and also accompanies various singers and instrumentalists.

The concert takes place on Saturday,

March 24, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 £5 for under-18s - and can be bought in Thornbury Town Hall or by calling 01454 412272.

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A TRIO of musicians will bring Irish folk music to Thornbury when they entertain an audience in the Cossham Hall.

Fife and Strum comprises Nicola Woodward, Ron Phelan and Sam Stennett, who have different musical backgrounds and return to the town by popular demand to help raise money for phase one of the Armstrong Hall redevelopment project Nicola studied flute and piano at the Royal College of Music and has performed at venues such as the Wigmore Hall, as well as performing as a freelance orchestral player with major UK orchestras.

She has a keen interest in folk music and is the co-founder of Rockhampton Folk Festival.

Ron Phelan studied jazz in Dublin before branching out into flamenco, West African and Arabic music. He has performed at many leading venues and is also a prolific composer.

Guitarist Sam Stennett has played since a teenager, having been influenced by his grandfather, the late entertainer and jazz

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

n MERLIN ADVERTISING FEATURE

Work begins to refurbish 144 homes

Scaffolding has gone up on the first homes this year to receive external refurbishments as part of Merlin’s ongoing project to improve customers’ homes.

next month and making a real difference to customers’ lives by improving the quality of their homes.”

Among the customers whose homes have been completed in the past year were Sandra and Malcolm Grant.

Having completed the 500th home in its Sandra said: “The finished house looks programme last year, during 2018 the amazing. I pull up in front of the house in my housing association will refurbish 144 homes car every day and I can’t believe how good to improve their energy efficiency and it looks. It looks like a brand new house – it’s make them cheaper to heat. Work began got real kerb appeal. It’s like a thermos flask, last month on the first homes in the phase it keeps the heat in in the winter and keeps in Severn Beach and will later move on to the house cool in the summer. It’s already homes in Thornbury. cooler now but it’ll be in the winter that we really notice it.”

Merlin is fitting new external wall insulation Mark added: “It’s great to hear such positive to the homes as well as carrying out any feedback from customers like Mr and repairs and redecorations to outbuildings Mrs Garland whose homes have been and fences, gates and paths. refurbished and are seeing a real difference to their lives. We’re hearing from other Special Projects Manager Mark Sherwood customers that they’ve spent less on their said: “We’re committed to maintaining our energy bills during the winter because their homes to a high standard. This project is homes are so much warmer now. By giving delivering real improvements to the quality each home a facelift it not only benefits the of the homes and the to the lives of the customers living in them, it benefits the people who live in them, who are seeing whole community, by making the streets a fall in their energy bills as a result of the look more insulation making the homes warmer. attractive.”

We’re looking forward to getting started

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

11

n COMMUNITY NEWS

Thornbury Volunteer Centre latest opportunities THE Prison Advice and Care Trust operating within HMP Leyhill and HMP Eastwood Park are looking for volunteers for a range of roles; • Visitor Centre – meet and greet families, provide emotional support, serve refreshments and basic admin tasks.

• Catering – within the Visits Hall • Play – within the Visits Hall engaging in play activities with children of all ages, allowing families space to talk.

Thornbury Carers Group are seeking volunteers who are able to undertake activities with their group of carers in their monthly meetings. If you have a hobby, skill or interesting talk to share with the group please get in touch.

Dr Jenner’s House, Museum and Garden are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join their Archive & Collections team and Front of House team. Archivists will help with all aspects of collection

Thornbury Brownies

4TH Thornbury Brownies continue to have fun at their weekly meetings. Recent activities include a visit from a circus performer who performed and taught us circus skills including feather balancing, plate spinning, juggling, diablo and the hula hoop. We followed this up with making our own juggling balls and painting ourselves up as clowns.

One of our leaders has also been nominated by other volunteers and a parent to receive a South Gloucestershire Council Chair's Award for the voluntary work she undertakes in Girlguiding. She will be presented with the award on 7th March.

Appeal for charities to accept orchestra’s cash MEMBERS of Thornbury Orchestra want to give some money away when they stage their annual concerts.

The symphony orchestra, which has been established for nearly 15 years, puts on two performances a year, with each one supporting a different local charity.

The majority of ticket sale proceeds go to the charities, which can also promote their work to audiences and collect donations at the concert venues.

In return, the orchestra asks the organisations to help with publicity and ticket sales, to provide and sell interval refreshments and to have between four and six volunteers helping at the events.

Since its formation, the orchestra has given more than £10,000 to a range of charities. Now it wants to hear from others that could be supported.

There are currently more than 40 musicians in the orchestra, which has a repertoire that spans major classical works to light film music and the proms.

It also supports local young musicians by giving them opportunities to play solos with a full orchestra. Each concert also features a piece by a local composer.

Any charity that would like to benefit from the concerts should phone 01454 260376.

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

and archival management such as conservation, processing, preservation and reference. The Front of House volunteers will assist in the day-to-day running of the museum and provide visitors with an excellent visitor experience.

Thornbury in Bloom is seeking volunteers to work as part of a team helping with groundwork: weeding; mowing; keeping beds tidy; bulb planting; pruning. There are weekly working parties starting in

February which increase to 2-3 per week up to July/August.

They are also seeking a Treasurer to be responsible for all financial transactions for the organisation.

There are 11 meetings per year, usually on the first Monday of each month between 7-9pm.

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

Volunteer Centre bags £2000 from supermarket THE work of Thornbury Volunteer Centre has been boosted by a grant from Tesco’s Bags of Help community scheme.

The £2,000 windfall comes as the Volunteer Centre prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary. It’s hosting a series of 4 events aimed at encouraging new people to volunteer and highlighting the contribution made to the local community by existing volunteers.

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

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

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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12

n NEWS

Fly-tipper blames anger and frustration for dumping waste A DELIVERY driver was ordered to pay a total of £500 in fines and costs after admitting fly-tipping in Tortworth, near Thornbury.

Ionut Vulpe, 22, of Kingston Road, Bedminster, Bristol, was prosecuted by South Gloucestershire Council’s environmental protection team.

Bristol Magistrates’ Court was told that on November 23, 2017, a witness saw seven large empty delivery bags and an empty cardboard box dumped on Tortworth Road by the driver of a white delivery van.

Inquiries revealed the van was used by a parcel delivery contractor and Vulpe was the driver.

When interviewed, he said he had left the items out of anger and frustration after they fell out of the vehicle while he was trying to re-organise his deliveries.

In court, Vulpe was fined £120 and ordered to pay costs of £350 and a £30 victim surcharge.

Heather Goddard, the council’s Cabinet member for communities, said: “Fly-tipping is an issue that affects our communities and local environment and this activity will not be tolerated in South Gloucestershire.

“There is no excuse for this type of behaviour. Waste crime puts the environment at risk and anyone found to be fly-tipping will be prosecuted.”

Call us on 01454 262818

to book

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for a Sunday Carvery at Get the family together ry week from 12-2pm eve ved ser Eastwood Park,

as well as , freshly cooked joints, An assortment of starters delicious desserts of ice cho a h wit , cial a vegetarian spe 8DA , Gloucestershire, GL12 Eastwood Park, Falfield 01454 262818 events@eastwoodpark.co.uk www.eastwoodpark.co.uk

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March, 2018

Swinging towards their 60’s: Marlwood pupils plan reunion A GROUP of former Marlwood school pupils are meeting up in a school reunion designed to celebrate their 60th birthdays.

The group started senior school at Thornbury Grammar School in September 1969 and then transferred to the new Marlwood School, leaving in 1974 (5th year) and 1976 (6th

Form).

The reunion is planned for 29 September at the Ship pub.

If you are interested in attending, contact Judy Dunkley (nee Witchell) by email: doodiedunkley@hotmail.com The group also has a Facebook page called ‘Swinging towards our 60’s’.

Hedge laying training and wildflower meadow planting to help improve Severn Vale MEADOW and hedge creation feature in two events to be run as part of the Forgotten Landscape project.

Volunteers can help make a small wildflower meadow in Olveston on Sunday, March 4, when planting will take place from 10am-11.30am on Aust Road, near the junction with Elberton Road.

All are welcome to take part and can borrow tools if they can’t take their own along.

The event is being run in conjunction with Olveston Parish Council and refreshments will be provided.

The following weekend will see Julian Smith teaching the local Berkeley style of hedge laying during a two-day course on March 10 and 11.

Taking place in Rockhampton, the course is suitable for adults with little or no experience of hedge laying. All tools will be supplied and although free, places must be booked.

The Forgotten Landscape natural and cultural heritage project aims to conserve and improve the lower Severn Vale levels.

Visit www.aforgottenlandscape.org.uk for details of events.

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

March, 2018

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n NEWS

Literary festival venue confirmed for Will Self visit

13

NURSERY OPEN DAY Thursday 8th March 9:30am to 12:00pm

Will Self courtesy of Chris Close THE Bristol and Bath Science Park will host acclaimed author and journalist Will Self as part of the Cotswold Edge Literary Festival this summer.

Organisers have confirmed that the author will appear at the week long festival on Wednesday 20th June at 7pm.

Will Self is the author of 12 novels, including the Booker Prize shortlisted Umbrella. He’s also a prolific columnist, having written for the Guardian, the New York Times and the New Statesman.

No stranger to controversy, Self will give an insight into his career and distinctive writing.

The event is one of several at the festival, which runs from 16 to 24 June. Several venues are being used around South Gloucestershire.

Children’s author AF Harrold will be entertaining primary school children in Winterbourne, as well as performing poetry for adults in the evening. Best selling local author Susan Lewis will be in conversation during an afternoon tea event.

Times journalist and author of the acclaimed memoir Boy With the Top Knot, Sathnam Sanghera is also booked for the festival. Other events are being announced in the next few weeks.

Tickets go on sale at the start of April, and more information can be found on the festival’s website: www.cotswoldedgeevents.co.uk

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An independent nursery for boys and girls aged 2 to 4 years.

With full use of the facilities of Tockington Manor School, including swimming lessons and grounds.

Call 01454 613229 registrar@tockingtonmanorschool.com www.tockingtonmanorschool.com

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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March, 2018

15

n NEWS

Diamond day for 60th running of spring flower show A LANDMARK anniversary will be reached when Thornbury Horticultural Society stages its spring flower show.

The organisation will celebrate its 60th year of putting on the event - the first of two shows it holds each year in the Armstrong Hall.

Society members hope plenty of entries will be received for the show and that it will attract a large number of visitors to see them on Saturday, March 17, when the doors open at 1.30pm and close at 4pm.

There will be classes for a range of spring flowering plants, including daffodils, as well as a class run in conjunction with Thornbury in Bloom.

Children have their own section and there will also be judging of cookery, crafts and photographs.

Refreshments will be

available during the show and a number of plants will be on sale.

Visit http://www. thornburyhorticulturalsociety. org.uk for more details.

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A NEW 70-bed dementia and nursing care centre has opened in Thornbury.

Grace Care Centre on Midland Way is the first in South Gloucestershire to be run by the Orders of St John Care Trust, a not-for-profit charitable trust.

It has been named after the cricketing Grace brothers - EM and WG - due to their links with Thornbury.

The home’s general manager is qualified nurse Pyela Mwale, who has helped commission two previous care homes.

She said. “I like the challenge of setting up a new home as it gives me an opportunity to choose the right team to work with and an even greater opportunity to get it right from the start.”

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Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

16

n NEWS

A NEW mental health website has been launched for children and young people in South Gloucestershire.

The Mind You site was developed with the involvement of youngsters to promote mental health and emotional well-being through information and advice.

It was funded by the South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), developed by Public Health South Gloucestershire and features separate sections for children, young people, parents, carers and professionals.

Dr Kate Mansfield, of the CCG, said: “Children and young people who are struggling to cope or have mental health problems have the best health outcomes when they receive help at the earliest point possible.

“It is vitally important they know what to do when they need support and what steps they can

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

Youngsters involved in creating mental health support website

take in order to get help.

“This new website is a great resource which helps to make

children and young people aware of some important practical steps they can take to help improve

well-being. It also has guidance on where to go if they are struggling to cope or need more support.

“The information for parents, carers and professionals is also really important to help ensure that we know what resources are available when a child or young person is brave enough to ask for our help.”

The Mind You website www.mindyou.org.uk includes contributions from young people across South Gloucestershire, among them a video looking at social media and mental health made by students at Brimsham Green School in Yate.

Comments invited on latest blueprint for development in South Gloucestershire ANOTHER document shaping how and where development can take place in South Gloucestershire has gone out for consultation.

The district’s local plan will provide a guide and framework for both residents and developers, against which the suitability of planning applications are judged.

All local authorities must have an up-to-date local plan in place and South Gloucestershire Council said it was time to update its plan, especially with its increasing need for housing and employment opportunities.

But it said it wanted to protect and improve its environment, meaning it had to balance economic, social and environmental issues to ensure new development was sustainable.

The plan will sit under the West of England Joint Spatial Plan (JSP), which has been developed by the four West of England authorities to guide strategic growth across the wider region.

The council’s own plan will focus on more local projects but will also allow it to determine how proposals identified in the

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

JSP will be achieved.

It said building within the current boundaries of urban areas would not be enough to meet needs and the JSP identified large scale developments in five greenfield locations - including Thornbury and Buckover.

The local plan will also establish where smaller scale development is appropriate in other areas.

Colin Hunt, the council’s Cabinet member for planning, transport and the strategic environment, said: “By having a robust local plan, which residents

understand and have taken part in shaping, will strengthen the council’s hand against unwanted and speculative development bids.”

Consultation runs until April 30 and details of how to take part are available on the council’s website, together with dates and venues for a number of information drop-in sessions.

None have been planned for Thornbury but there are some in Patchway, Stoke Gifford and Yate.

Libraries also have copies of the consultation documents.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

17

n NEWS

Band offers free concerts to help those experiencing loneliness A SOUTH Gloucestershire band is planning to give a series of free concerts to help tackle the problem of loneliness and isolation.

Westerly Showband said music had a beneficial effect on a range of physical, mental and social disorders and, with loneliness also experienced by some people, felt it could do something about it.

Members of the band’s board are now seeking help from local charities and community organisations so the concerts can take place throughout the district.

They need a suitable venue for each performance, such as a hall or church, which could be hired at a low rate or given free.

They also require help with setting up for the concerts, ushering and providing refreshments, as well as getting

those without transport to the event.

Chris Harris, the band’s musical director, said: “The band will provide a programme of much loved musical favourites from days gone by that everyone will know.

“There will even be a few sing-along specials, not to mention a few numbers where audiences can sway, wave their arms, clap their hands and even dance a few steps.”

He said the singing would be led by the band’s resident singer, Alexandra Denman, well known for her

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

contribution to light opera, opera and musical comedy in the Bristol area.

Anyone interested in the

offer should either email cgharris320@btinternet.com or phone 0117 956 1950.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

18

nW HAT’S ON IN OUR AREA March 3 n Big Spring Clean, 9.30 Social Services Car Park, Gloucester Road Saturday 7 April – Big Spring Clean, 9.30 Turnberries, near to Rock Street Car Park March 13 n 'The Great Way Round – Paddington to Penzance via Bristol & Plymouth Millbay’ presented

by Terry Nicholls. BAWA, 589 Southmead Road, BRISTOL, BS34 7RG. Tuesday 13th March 7:30 for 7:45 pm. The meeting is open to all and there is no admission charge, but a suggested donation of £3 to help defray expenses is appreciated. Contact: Dave Winter 01454 324230.

March 13 n 7.30pm - Chipping Sodbury Town Hall – The Marylebone Woodwind Trio Tickets available from: https:// www.ticketsource.co.uk/ csmusicsociety March 22 n Avon Organic Group The local group for everyone interested in organic growing and organic foods. This month local expert Tim Foster joins us to talk about growing under glass and in polytunnels. Thursday, 22nd March 2018, 7pm – 9pm at The Station (in the Dance Studio), Silver Street, Bristol. BS1 2AG. All welcome.

Visitors £5 / AOG Members £2. www.groworganicbristol.org / secretaryaog@gmail.com March 23 n South Glos Libdems host a

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Comedy Night with "Up the Antics" An evening of stand-up and improv with one of Bristol's best comedy teams. 7:30 Saturday 3rd March at Christ the King, Castle St, Thornbury. Tickets: £7.50 email: jaynestansfield98@gmail.com March 28 n 7-30pm Alveston Methodist Church, Greenhill. The 18th century Naval Cook with Ed Boreham.

Visitors welcome £2-50 at the door.

April 10 n 7.30pm - Chipping Sodbury Town Hall - Dominic Alldis Jazz Trio Tickets available from:https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/csmusicsociety June 3 n Laser Run Championships being put on by PentathlonGB South West at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex BS37 7LB on Sunday 3 June. Including all age groups from 8 to 60+ Contact Philip Hobbs prhcoaching@outlook.com if Laser Pistol training is required. Entry details can be found at https:// www.pentathlongb.org/events/ list/competition/laser_run

Haven Memory Cafe

Thornbury United Reformed Church n 10.15 - 11.45am Friday 2nd March: Flowers for Spring, Sue Aitken, Thornbury Garden Shop n 10.15 - 11.45am Friday 16th March: Popular songs of their day and well-known poems, Christine Robertson & Gilda Ludwell

March, 2018

Regular events

Monday n 7.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall World Dance 7-10pm Tuesday n 11.00 am - 1.30 pm Armstrong Hall - Excell Room Recycled Teenagers Lunch Club n 6pm Zumba at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com n 7pm Zumba Toning at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com n 8pm Yoga-Lattes at Castle School www.zumbathornbury.com Wednesday n 2.00 pm Armstrong Hall Cossham Hall Tea Dance 01454 412060 n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall, Committee Room Lip Reading Classes n Wednesdays Bellydance Classes with SachaFrom 7.30pm . Contact Sacha on 07971 578151 or email sachabellydance@yahoo.co.uk for full details. Ridgewood Community Association, Yate BS37 4AF Thursday n 8.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Ceroc Dance Friday n 2.00 pm. Armstrong Hall Committee Room Canasta Club n Alveston: Marlwood School Marlwood Folk Companions 7:45 – 9:15pm (term time only).

01454 414365 Peter.sumner@ btopenworld.com n1.30pm Zumba Gold at Thornbury Leisure Centre

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

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

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

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

Like Us On Facebook www.facebook.com/ sgloslibraries Follow Us On Twitter @SouthGlosLibs Looking for service information or contact details?

See our website www.southglos. gov.uk/libraries Have you lost an item of Jewellery?

An item of jewellery has been found in the library – we would love to reunite it with its owner so please get in touch if you think it may belong to you.

StoryTime and RhymeTime for babies and pre-schoolers (Term Time Only) Storytime Mondays 2.15pm – 2.45pm.

Rhymetime Fridays 10.30am -11.00am.

Most suitable for ages 0-4 years, all activities free of charge, no booking required.

FREE Holiday Craft Session for Children Drop in anytime between 11-12 noon on Monday 26th March for free family fun, aimed at primary school aged children.

Adult supervision required, no child under 8 years to be left unattended.

Craft & Chat First Thursday of the month 2pm - 4pm. A chance for people who love crafting to get together and

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

share inspiration. No charge and no booking required. Just turn up and bring your craft project with you. New faces welcome!

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

If you need more intensive support, book in to see our computer volunteer Chris on Thursday mornings at 9.30, 10.30 or 11.30. Sessions with Chris must be booked in advance – enquire in person at Thornbury Library or email thornbury.library@ southglos.gov.uk Free e magazines with your library card!

Over 100 different titles to choose from including BBC Good Food,

Amateur Photographer, National Geographic, Marie Claire, Homes & Gardens, Hello!, Vogue & Total Film.

Checkout as many editions as you like and download or stream them to your tablet, smartphone, PC or laptop.

To find out more information visit: www.southglos.gov.uk/ libraries and select “Library e-resources” or ask at the library.

Can you help?

We are looking for people who love books and have their own transport who could spare a few hours each month to deliver books to people who can’t get to the library.

Ask at the library for more details or email thornbury. library@southglos.gov.uk.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

19

n POLICE BLOG

Take care when you are out

PC Natalie Jones

SINCE my last column there’s been jewellery stolen in a burglary in Thornbury while the family were out for the evening.

We can all help to deter criminals by making sure we: • always lock up and set the alarm at night as well as when going out • never leave keys in the back of the door • keep high-value jewellery with a specialist storage company, not at home • keep photographs and a description of items with sentimental value • use a traceable asset marking liquid on jewellery or antiques • join Neighbourhood Watch And – most importantly – if you see something suspicious, call us

straight away. It’s 999 if someone’s obviously breaking in, otherwise ring 101.

At this time of year we can get reports of ‘rogue traders’ offering to do household maintenance or gardening work – before carrying it out unnecessarily, to a poor standard, or overcharging.

While thankfully it doesn’t happen often, it does disproportionately affect older people – who are more likely to be at home during the day – and can have a significant impact on their wellbeing as well as their finances.

Please help to protect any vulnerable relatives or friends by helping to find a reputable tradesperson and sharing our advice:

• it’s your doorstep, your decision.

Deal with any unknown and unexpected visitor through a window or use a door chain • check identification – genuine callers expect this and will wait • if you’re not sure, don’t open the door and report it by calling 101 • if you feel threatened or intimidated call 999 straight away • set up a 'No Cold Calling Zone' through South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) • sign up to utility companies’ password schemes • keep cash in the bank, not at home From PC Natalie Jones

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

Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

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20

n MOTORING

March, 2018

A guide to pre-owned cars with Richard Cooke

Second hand Style A look at everyday cars on the cusp of becoming modern classics Mercedes CL500, 1996 - 1999: Disarmingly charming dinosaur I SUSPECT we’re about to miss the boat on this one: The first generation Mercedes CL, at 20 years young, is just about starting to feel (and cost) like a classic.

Rarity, coupled with a desirable badge, will do that for most cars but the original CL always struggled on the used market due to those Marmite looks. Even after two decades of, ahem, ‘maturing’, put it next to its beautiful but irksome replacement and it slips quietly into the shadows. But behind the wheel this whopper of

a Merc charmed me straight away.

Believe it or not, it also represents the best ownership prospect of all CLs. Costing £80k new in 1997, my ‘R’ plate test model came with the optional suspension and 19 inch alloy wheels from the Mercedes performance division AMG. The 320bhp 5.0 V8 gets to 60 in 6.5 seconds, and with only 105k miles on the clock the engine feels lively, responsive and smooth. As does the 5 speed automatic gearbox and, well, every other mechanical item as it happens. Brakes? Not bad at all. Suspension? Excellent – AMG have managed to almost eliminate pitch, roll and dive from this 2 ton luxury cruiser. Underneath this is an S Class, with the attendant huge boot and reasonable room in the

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back. It feels much smaller when you’re behind the wheel, and what a huge wheel it is – one of two signs you’re driving a Merc from a previous era. The other is the nature of the dashboard controls (they all still work), which can be operated with a ski glove on such is their size and robustness. Quite a contrast to today’s touchscreens and sometimes fiddly buttons.

Indeed it is the sheer level of standard equipment on a car this old that makes it feel almost modern – parking sensors front and rear, double glazed windows, pneumatic door and boot closing mechanisms, a Bose stereo, heated powered seats – the list goes on and I’ll say it again: everything still works! Of course, they could go wrong at any time and if they do

it’ll cost you a packet to put right just because you can pick up a CL for less than £4k today the repair costs are still those of a car that cost twenty times that new.

What to look for on the used market? Well shamefully all Mercs up until model year 2004 rust, regardless of how expensive they were new. The CL is no different – check front wings (£300 each), bonnet (£1,500) and rear wheel arches and sills (the latter are prohibitively expensive to rectify).

Tyres are £200 each. If the aircon goes, the dash has to come out to fix it – ouch. But compared to the very poorly built successor CL, which ran from 2000 – 2006,

this version is a paragon of oldfashioned Mercedes reliability and trusted mechanicals. I advise you to look away from the undoubted beauty of later CLs and focus instead on the tear-stained tales of woe you see online from previous owners. It’s a well-worn cliché, but Mercedes really don’t make cars like this old CL any more, and (rust aside) a well looked-after example should look after you.

I need to mention fuel – the CL500 manages 20mpg and the usefully large tank will cost you £125 to fill. The CL420 offers 40bhp less and no improvement in fuel consumption, so avoid it and the larger CL600 V12, which struggles to return 15mpg.

In terms of image, the first generation CL avoids the whiff of wannabe football manager pub landlords that hangs over the later models. Instead think dowager duchess down on her luck, too broke or frugal to replace a car bought new in 1998. And I’ll admit it – I’ve always liked the way this car looks. There is a certain beauty in something slightly flawed, but in the right colour and in person the CL is deeply impressive. Revel in rather than ignore the sheer size of the beast; this car has echoes of those vain-glorious 1970s US land yachts, with the added advantage of build quality and performance.

Sink into the leather armchairs and soak up the old school Germanic quality. Grip the vast wheel, slot it into ‘Drive’ and feel the V8 effortlessly carry you along. And then remind yourself that you’ve paid just £4k for an indulgence that very few others are brave or informed enough to follow. A future classic? Probably. A total hoot whilst you wait to find out?

Definitely.

Mercedes CL, what to pay: V8s start at £4k, V12s more like £8k+.

Avoid silly prices Next month: 10 cylinders

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

N 8 I NG 201 I EN MN P O TU AU

STOKE GIFFORD RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Living life to the full.

Come along and join us for a FREE coffee morning, every Wednesday, 10am-12pm.

SHOW HOMES NOW OPEN

Learn about all the opportunities to stay active and independent in a vibrant community of friends and neighbours, enjoying a host of social and leisure facilities and activities designed to help you maintain your independence for longer.

Opening later this year, our exciting new retirement village just 6 miles from the heart of Bristol city centre in Stoke Gifford will have 261 affordable new homes built around a superb range of social, leisure and wellbeing facilities. Life here will be all about staying active and enjoying your independence amongst friends and neighbours, safe in the knowledge that if you need care, now or in the future, it can be provided by a dedicated on-site team in the comfort of your own home.

Join us for a relaxed coffee, and take a relaxed look around the superb show apartments at this new state-of-the-art retirement village.

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village, Off Coldharbour Lane, Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS16 1EJ

Contact us today for an informal chat 0117 321 5138 or www.stokegifford@extracare.org.uk

Stoke Gifford Retirement Village An ExtraCare Charitable Trust Village

StokeGiffordVillage

*Subject to availability. Charges will apply. Details of any costs associated with your home, care and village services will be provided as part of your application. The ExtraCare Charitable Trust, registered charity number 327816, is a company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales as company number 2205136.

Its registered office is at 7 Harry Weston Road, Binley Business Park, Binley, Coventry, CV3 2SN. Copyright Š 2018 - The ExtraCare Charitable Trust.

thornburyvoice

22

March, 2018

n THORNBURY DISTRICT MUSEUM

View From Thornbury And District Museum Stokefield House REDEVELOPMENT of the former council offices in Castle Street involves the latest transformation of the site where Stokefield House was built in the 19th century.

The original house was built for Adrian Stokes on a paddock bought from Joseph Parslow in 1821 and included property acquired from Benjamin and James Smith in the same year.

It then continued as a private residence for a succession of influential families until it was taken over by the former Thornbury Rural District Council (RDC) in 1958, after which it was extended for office use.

The old Northavon District Council, created in 1974, later built new civic offices on the site after demolishing Stokefield House, with the premises going on to become the headquarters of South Gloucestershire Council when it came into existence in 1996.

With South Gloucestershire

vacating the offices more recently, a retirement village of 59 flats and five cottages is now being built on the land.

Although the first owner of

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Stokefield House, it is thought Mr Stokes did not use it as a main property as he had homes at Stanshawes Court in Yate and in Nailsworth.

His heirs sold the house to Sir John Key in 1853 in what appears to have been a short term investment as it was put up for sale the following year.

Subsequent occupiers included Major John Gwennap Hume and his sister, Eleanor Rodney.

Mrs Rodney lived at Stokefield for 18 years until her death in 1873, when the property passed to Henry Craven St John, the husband of her daughter Catherine.

Henry had a distinguished career in the Royal Navy and he and Catherine lived at Stokefield until their deaths in 1909 and 1914 respectively.

It was then that the house acquired a temporary new name when it was bought by the widowed Madeline, Lady Jenkinson, who called it Clouds.

On her death in 1927, it was sold to William Hammond and Anita Walker but just a few years later was bought by Captain William Dutson, of Stoke Bishop, Bristol, the son of Bishopston tea traveller William Dutson and his wife Edith.

Captain Dutson had married Dorothy Huddleston in 1921 and during his time at Stokefied House was understood to be a farmer.

Thornbury RDC bought the property and some land from Captain Dutson but sold off 2.15 acres in 1959 to structural engineers Robert Watson and Co for £2,400 for the building of Stokefield Close.

Pictures: Stokefield House when used by the former Thornbury Rural District Council.

The civic offices built by the former Northavon District Council.

Information and pictures supplied by Thornbury and District Museum.

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

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

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

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

Locations and dates available: • Cardiff Castle, Cardiff - 24th/25th February • Longleat, Wiltshire - 24th/25th March • Ashmolean Museum, Oxford - 14th/15th April • Exeter Food and Drink Festival, Exeter - 5th/6th May • Malvern Spring Festival, Worcestershire - 12th/13th May

FREE COURSE AND DAY TRIP

• Stratford-upon-Avon/Warwick Castle - 16th/17th June • All Aboard! Watersports Centre, Bristol - 7th/8th July For further information please visit www.sgscol.ac.uk or contact Sarah Kopera on 0117 909 2327

50+ WEE KE OF L EARN ND ING, DISC O AND VERY TRAV EL

thornburyvoice

24

n RECIPE

March, 2018

The in-between month They will keep in an airtight container stored at the top of the fridge for 2-3 days. They can also be frozen in a plastic box for up to a month.

Do make sure though that you defrost them and then warm them in the oven 180 C, gas mark 4 for 5 mins. They taste so much better warm.

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

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

MARCH always feels like it’s stuck between winter and spring and can’t quite make up its mind. So this month’s recipe is a precursor to spring, but warm and filling for the cooler days March throws at us.

These attractive savoury muffins count as part of your 5 a day. They can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or as part of a picnic or school lunch box. If you have a mini muffin tin you can make tiny ones as appetisers. They are filling and not too fattening. They tick all my boxes.

Makes 12 muffins Ingredients: • Sweetcorn - 250g (8oz) if using frozen sweetcorn take out of the freezer ½ hour before making the muffins.

• Plain flour - 250g (8oz).

• Semolina - 50g (2oz) you can use plain flour instead if you don’t have semolina, but the semolina gives the muffins a nutty texture.

• Baking powder - 2 teaspoons.

• Fresh flat-leaf parsley - a small handful, finely chopped including the stems.

• Dried oregano and marjoram – ¼ teaspoon each.

• Cayenne pepper - a shake.

• Salt and black pepper – ¼ teaspoon each.

• Edam cheese or Cheddar if you prefer a stronger flavour - 50g (2oz).

• Eggs - 3, free range preferably.

• Milk - 250ml (8 fl oz).

• Vegetable oil - 100 ml (3 ½ fl oz).

• Red pepper - ½ finely chopped.

• Spring onions - 2, finely chopped, both white and green parts.

PREHEAT THE OVEN 180C, fan 160C, GAS MARK 4 Here’s what you do: 1. I n a large bowl mix the flour, semolina, baking powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, all the herbs (parsley, oregano, marjoram) and the cheese. Leave to one side.

2. I n a separate medium bowl beat the eggs, add the milk and the oil.

3. A dd the chopped red pepper and the spring onions.

4. A dd the sweetcorn.

5. Add the egg mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients and stir in a figure of eight until just combined. Do not over-stir or your muffins won’t be light and fluffy.

6. Divide the mixture between the 12 muffin-tin holes.

7. Bake for 10-15 mins until risen and golden (a wooden toothpick or skewer should come out clean and not sticky).

8. Leave to cool for 4 or 5 mins before removing from the tin using a palate knife.

9. If not serving immediately, cool on a wire baking rack.

10. Serve warm with a homemade coleslaw made with finely sliced white cabbage, grated carrot, finely chopped spring onion or red onion and fresh chopped parsley.

Couple win pub award after just 15 months in business OWNERS of a pub in Hillesley are celebrating after winning an award from pub champions CAMRA. Karen McGeoch and Rod Undy, who run The Fleece Inn at Hillesley have become the Dursley and District CAMRA pub of the year.

Rod said: “We achieved the same accolade in Mumbles, with the first Micro Pub in Wales, so it was almost an unwritten goal to repeat history, although we never thought that we would win”.

The local villagers bought the building in 2012 and ran it as a Community Pub and although the concept worked initially, the pub soon started to falter.

Karen said: “We were actually about to sign a lease for a new business venture in Swansea when one of the shareholders who just happens to have a holiday property in Mumbles told us about The Fleece. As we were in the area the following week we decided to take a look – and here we are today!”.

The real selling point for the couple was the sense of community in Hillesley.

The official presentation took place at The Fleece on Saturday 10th February with music from the Roselly’s afterwards.

To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

Karen McGeoch and Rod Undy with Peter Corfield (centre)

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

March, 2018

thornburyvoice

25

n NEWS

Appeal for bell ringers to help mark the end of the Great War CHURCH bell ringers in South Gloucestershire can take part in a major event later this year to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War. The organisers of Battle’s Over, a national and international event marking the armistice, want to see more than 1,000 churches and cathedrals participating by ringing their bells simultaneously at 7.05pm on the night of November 11,

Helping with isolation ANYONE in South Gloucestershire who has contact with isolated people and wants to know how they can help them is invited to an event in the district.

The South Gloucestershire Disability Equality Network, in conjunction with other voluntary organisations, is hosting the event in Chipping Sodbury Town Hall.

Workers such as delivery drivers, shop staff and hairdressers are among those who meet lonely elderly people in particular and want to be confident in trying to help them.

Organisers also hope local businesses will want to get involved by sending members of staff who could be trained to help their customers.

The event takes place on Tuesday, March 20, with registration from 6pm head of a 6.30pm start.

Booking is essential and can be done by visiting bit.ly/ lonelySG or searching SGDEN on Eventbrite.

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

2018.

Pageantmaster Bruno Peek said it would be a fitting tribute to the 1,400 or so bell ringers who are understood to have lost their lives during the war.

Ringing Out for Peace is

part of Battle’s Over, a day-long commemoration of the end of the war. It will start at 6am, with the ringing of the bells bringing the event to a close.

Mr Peek said the “stirring sound of church and cathedral

bells” would provide a fitting conclusion.

Churches can register their involvement by visiting www. brunopeek.co.uk and completing an entry form

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10/07/2017 11:50:04 Choose either a can, water or a fruit drink. Offer may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. We reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

Fish is a natural product and whilst the greatest care is taken in preparation, bones may still be present.

26

n SPORT

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

Tennis Club keeps busy through winter months Weather hampers Winter League tennis After a strong start for Thornbury’s teams, the winter weather has led to a backlog of fixtures and the prospect of a busy run in to the end of the Winter League season.

Thornbury firsts, led by Sarah Hurley, Jo Hargreaves and Felix Boyes, sit two points off of top spot with a game in hand. With just eight points separating first and last place in the division it’s likely to be a very close run contest for top spot.

The second team including Brendan Wilde, Susie Newman, Nick Mason, Rae Bezuidenhaut and Megan O’Connor, are in second place but 10 points behind the leaders – Bristol Central. With three matches to play, including a match against Bristol Central, the title could still go to the wire.

The third team continue to fight for every point. The team continues to provide valuable

league experience for new and developing players. So far, they have been represented by a total of fourteen different players. The teams play ladies’ doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles rubbers within a match. Each match is worth up to ten points.

Tennis Easter Camps The club’s camps are back this Easter. The coaching team, provided by Taylor Tennis, is welcoming children on the courts for the Easter holiday break.

Brian Jordan from the club told the Voice: “Each day will be lively, full of fun, games and prizes providing the opportunity to play the wonderful sport of tennis. The camps are a great introduction to tennis and a fantastic way to make new friends.”

The camps are for children of all ages, with a breakfast option from 8am for parents needing an earlier drop off.

More information can be found

Linda Mantle (left) and Gill Harrison, organisers of the Burns’ Night Supper, with their partners.

Megan O’Connor and Brendan Wilde competing in a recent Winter League match. on the club’s website www. thornburytennisclub.co.uk by phone on 07590024186 or email ctaylor_tennis@yahoo.co.uk Club debuts Burns’ Night Supper

The club holds regular social functions, but their Burn’s night was a first.

The evening included a traditional Burns Night supper and also a Scottish themed quiz.

Juniors warming up ahead of an energetic coaching session.

www.filton-central-garage.co.uk To advertise, contact Richard on 01454 800 120

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thornburyvoice

March, 2018

27

n SPORT THORNBURY Town Football Club have gone seven points clear at the top of the Marcliff Gloucestershire County League after victory at second placed Lebeq United.

After finishing fourth in the League for the last four seasons, Thorns manager Andy Davies added new players to his squad at the start of the season to increase competition for places, including midfielders Brandon Benjamin and Dave Jones and defender Aaron Clark.

Recent recruits Matt Davis from Patchway Town and the returning Luke Franklin from Cribbs FC have bolstered the team further. The rest of the squad have been together for the last two or three seasons, with many of the players having played together through the club’s junior teams.

After an early season defeat away at Hardwicke the team went on a 9 game unbeaten run, which took them to the top of the table. They are currently the League’s top scorers with some big wins under their belts including an 8-0 defeat of Little Stoke and a 6-1 victory against Patchway Town, and a run of five successive games when they scored 4 times. In the meantime they have also reached the semifinals of the County League Cup after victories against Henbury and Wick, and face Gala Wilton at the Mundy Fields on March 10 for a place in the final.

The team remain unbeaten at home and playing an open attacking style of football has seen crowds increase gradually.

Three of the players, skipper Pete Fowler, wing-back Tom Webb and striker Craig Lancastle were all recently selected for the League representative side.

Lancastle is the League’s leading scorer and already has 27 goals to his name this season.

He has been well supported by Toby Bennett, who’s scored 11, including some stunning free kicks and Brandon Benjamin

Thornbury clear after top of the table clash

Thornbury in their top of the table game against Lebeq. Photo courtesy of Peter Langley, GCL with 8.

Meanwhile the Reserve side, after a shaky start to the season, have moved up to third place in their league following two recent wins against Chalford (3-0) and Cotswold Rangers (6-1). They had become the draw specialists of their division but have only lost 2 games so far this season.

The early fixtures saw a number of their U18 squad players getting an introduction to Stroud League football.

The two U18 sides also maintain top three positions in their respective divisions of the Bristol U18 Combination and with games in hand could well be challenging for the title come the end of the season.

Meanwhile the Club have submitted planning applications for the necessary ground improvements that are needed at their Mundy Fields home to enable Thorns to gain promotion to the Toolstation

Let us know how your team are getting on email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk Got News? Call Richard 0n 01454 800 120

Western League in the event of their finishing in a promotion

position. The Council decision on those plans is expected shortly.

Bible Prophecy and The Gospel Message Are you aware that: JESUS CHRIST has PROMISED to RETURN to the EARTH International events fulfilling Bible Prophecy proclaim his coming is near

What are you doing to prepare for that day?

Send for further information to: The Secretary, Apostolic Fellowship of Christ Bethgur, 52a Dartford Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 3ER Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

28

n RUGBY

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

Forgettable afternoon for Thorns

By Dave Fox North Petherton 41 - 10 Thornbury THORNBURY were well beaten by a North Petherton side desperate for a win to ease themselves away from the relegation zone.

It was a case of déjà vu for Thornbury who once again returned from Beggars Brook having been out-muscled up front and denied the possession needed to play to their strengths in the backs. It was an entirely forgettable afternoon.

North Petherton, always difficult to beat at their ground, were languishing in tenth place just a few points above the third relegation place. A win was desperately important to them and they to fielded their strongest side of the season for the match.

Thornbury kicked off towards the town and scored early.

North Petherton’s clearing kick was charged down and Thornbury regathered the ball and quickly moved it wide where Sam Poustie crashed through a covering tackle to score by the corner flag.

North Petherton gradually got back into the match and their big forwards began to take control.

Jak Evans was yellow-carded for slapping the ball out of the home scrum half’s hands and although Thornbury were able to deal with a scrum on their own line and secure a turnover, the clearing kick missed touch and North Petherton ran it back with purpose, Arron Gibbs being put

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clear following good passing and he scored out wide.

Thornbury created a good chance to score as forwards and backs took play to the North Petherton ten-metre line.

Instead it was North Petherton who scored when wing Mike Stevens supported a forward

drive that tied up Thornbury’s defence to score in the corner two minutes later. Sam Williams converted to make it 14-5 and the writing was on the wall for Thornbury.

Jak Evans returned to the fray in time for the restart.

Fourteen points had been

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

n RUGBY conceded when he was off, but within seconds he was off again, this time for treatment to a gash on his eye lid. Louis Ogilvie hobbled off as well with Jake Goodridge and Louis Osborne coming on. Another reshuffle of the Thornbury line-up ensued with Tom Williams now finding himself at inside centre.

North Petherton were in full control. The Somerset side weren’t to be denied and took a scrum against the head in the Thornbury 22 and after several drives on the Thornbury line flanker Mac Taylor was driven over. The conversion missed but North Petherton led 19-5 at half time.

North Petherton started the second half as they had ended the first. Thornbury’s tackling was woeful and after three minutes wing Henry Gliddon was allowed to score the bonus point try.

After an altercation between the players, Johnny Heaven was yellow-carded for retaliation and a North Petherton prop was also given ten minutes to cool his heels.

Thornbury then delivered arguably the worst quarter of rugby this season. Tackling continued to be optional. Taylor scored a second try and home skipper Dominik Griffin touched down in quick succession and with Williams converting one the lead was extended to 36-5 with over twenty minutes to go.

From the restart Harry Tarling was hit high and late by Jack Coles and North Petherton lock was sent to the bin shortly before the previous yellow card holders returned to the pitch.

With ten minutes remaining Thornbury were awarded a penalty and went for territory.

From the lineout Thornbury drove George Sheldon over for a try. The conversion was missed.

Thornbury remained on top and looked to finish with another consolation score. However, Jack Hussey became the third Thornbury player to receive a yellow-card and North Petherton put the ball in the corner from which they drove Aiden Cotton over for the final try and a 41-10 win.

Scorers: Thornbury: tries – Sam Poustie and George Sheldon North Petherton: tries – Arron Gibbs, Mike Stevens, Mac Taylor (2), Henry Gliddon, Dominik Griffin, Aiden Cotton; conversions – Sam Williams (3)

29

Old-fashioned win for Thorns

By Dave Fox Thornbury 15 - 10 Bridgewater & Albion THORNBURY consolidated their fifth place position in the table through a hard-fought victory over Bridgwater in a game played in a mud bath.

In what was an old-fashioned forward-orientated slog, both sides contributed to a hugely entertaining match.

Injury problems late in the week denied Thornbury the presence of Jake Wood and Josh Whitlock from a side that already showed a few changes from the win against Cullompton. Alfie Richardson moved to fullback with Louis Ogilvie starting on the wing.

Bridgwater had shown good form since the turn of the year and had given the leading two clubs bloody noses before losing by a point or two. Their substantial pack looked to be the key feature of the game, particularly with Thornbury selecting a small but mobile unit and the state of the pitch.

Thornbury kicked off downhill into light drizzle and were soon in the lead after Tom

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Williams converted a penalty.

Bridgwater gained and retained possession but were in their own ‘22’ and as the players slopped and slithered from ruck to maul the Thornbury defence kept Bridgwater where they sank.

Thornbury refused to ease off the pressure on Bridgwater and with the scrum becoming stronger with every set piece it was fitting that after one scrum pushed Bridgwater back ten metres the second should shove the visitors over their line for Jack Hussey to grab the try. Tom Williams converted for a 10-0 lead as the first quarter came to an end.

Bridgwater showed they are a quality side with some clever handling from the restart and put constant pressure on Thornbury.

Johnny Heaven was yellowcarded for preventing a quick penalty being taken and Kyran Devitt opened Bridgwater’s account with a penalty. Three minutes later the halftime whistle blew with Thornbury 10-3 ahead.

From the restart Bridgwater’s ball-retention was excellent and after another powerful assault on

the Thornbury line, Brad Talbot, a No.8 playing in the centre, crashed over. Devitt converted to tie the scores. Johnny Heaven came back on with all ten Bridgwater points being scored whilst he was in the bin.

As the half progressed, Thornbury were awarded a penalty close to the Bridgwater line. It was taken quickly and although Bridgwater infringed again the ball was moved wide to Tom Williams who scored close to the corner flag. He couldn’t convert his try but Thornbury had regained the lead at 15-10.

There was little to choose between the sides in the second half, with Bridgwater shading the territory.

The ball was slippery, the pitch surface increasingly unstable, and energy levels were decreasing. Bridgwater missed a difficult penalty which was the nearest either side came to scoring in the last quarter.

A good win in a tight match for Thornbury. It wasn’t such a good day for groundsman John Arrowsmith who could see a busy time ahead salvaging the pitch for the rest of the season.

Email: contact@thornburyvoice.co.uk

30

n RUGBY

thornburyvoice

March, 2018

Four for Bobbie as Thornbees romp home

By Dave Fox Hardwicke & Quedgeley Ladies 5 - 30 Thornbees BOBBIE Jackson scores four tries as the Thornbees overcame the stern challenge of H&Q Ladies in a hard-fought game.

After a disappointing performance in defeat at North Bristol last month the Thornbees began far better with the early stages played in the home half.

The Thornbees kept up the pressure and Bobbie Jackson broke from halfway and outpaced the home defence to score the opening try.

Harlequins ladies applied pressure and monopolised possession. The Thornbees

tackling was too high and the bulky home forwards rumbled upfield and eventually a prop dashed over for the equalising score.

From a quick penalty Emma Nicholson powered over to put the Thornbees back ahead soon after.

The Harlequins Ladies threatened but when the ball went loose and Bobbie Jackson was given an inch of space out wide she showed the home defence a clean pair of heels and scored the Thornbees’ third try.

Thornbees led 15-5 at the break.

The second half saw the Thornbees control the game.

Although there were handling errors they managed the loose

play well, with Sadie Giles outstanding and becoming increasingly influential as the half progressed.

Another try for the Bees was crucial to give them a clear margin and it was Giles who finished off a move with great determination for the fourth try.

The Bees were playing at a different tempo with Bobbie Jackson and Sadie Giles dominating play. Midway through the half Giles took a quick penalty close to the Harlequins line and Bobbie went over for her hat-trick try, celebrating with a back-flip.

With time running out the game was put beyond doubt when Ellis Whitelaw and Gemma Tyrrell created space which

Jackson exploited for the final try.

Trailing 30-5 the Harlequins mounted a grandstand finish but the Bees defence tackled hard to keep their line intact.

Scorers: tries – Bobbie Jackson (4), Emma Nicholson and Sadie Giles Team: Claire Brealey; Sharon Kingsland-Wain, Claire Kingston, Rachael Underwood, Gail Daniel; Gemma Tyrrell (c), Bobbie Jackson; Cath Preston, Elaine Romaeo, Lindsay Broughton, Dani Telka, Jo Johnson, Emma Nicholson, Sadie Giles, Laura Panting.

Replacements: Kyleigh Knott, Cath Fishlock, Jo Dack, Steph Bennett, Ellis Whitelaw

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

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March, 2018

31

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