The Knowledge - Issue 83 by Knowle West

THE

For the residents of Filwood and parts of

Knowle & Windmill Hill

www.knowlewest.co.uk

KNOWL DGE ISSUE 83 FEBRUARY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MAY 2019

Now

Staff take on fitness challenge p12 Boxing club saved p 3 Broadwalk plans split community p3 Turn your bike electric p11

pages

THANKS TO: the Newsletter Steering Group and Knowle West Media Centre (Sue Mackinnon - Editor and Community Journalism Tutor, Bart Blazejewski - Designer). All articles express the views of individual contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Steering Group or KWMC.

Printed on recycled paper with vegetable inks by Doveton Press

A word from us

ur spring edition is certainly a step out of hibernation – with new groups and activities starting up - and some relaunching after a winter break. These include the return of My Wild Child on the Northern Slopes and Redcatch Community Garden re-opening (p9). There are also new football sessions for young people led by local PCSOs at Oasis Connaught (p6), a healthy lifestyle programme for families in April (p17) and the next How to be a Chef course to help young people to break into the food industry (p8). For more activities check out our Dates for your Diary and our advertorial pages at the back. If you’d like to get more involved in your community, there’s the chance to volunteer at the Knowle West Scout group (p8) or at some spring clean events (p9). You can also have your say on the future of the Northern Slopes nature reserve (p9) and your local libraries (p3). The Knowledge wants to congratulate Skemer Winters on finally getting a new home for his boxing club – launching in March at the Jubilee Hall in Wedmore Vale. After an 18 - month battle he never gave up hope (p3). We would also like to congratulate Knowle West schools for again shining in their year 6 SATs. (p5). And if you want more inspiration on taking up a challenge - our front page picture shows staff at Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery currently training for the Bristol 10k in May. We wish them luck.

Sue Mackinnon Editor Call: 0117 903 0444 Email: theknowledge@kwmc.org.uk Write to us at KWMC, Leinster Avenue, Bristol BS4 1 NL

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Copy deadline: Thursday 25 April Newsletter delivered from: Monday 27 May

Demolition of old sorting office begins It was a historical milestone as the demolition of one of Bristol’s prominent derelict buildings got underway in January – to make way for the University of Bristol’s £300 million campus. The former sorting office, next to Bristol Temple Meads Station, has been empty since the Royal Mail moved its operation to Filton in 1997. Its removal will enable the development of the university’s new Enterprise Campus – as part of the transformation of the Temple Quarter district. Contractors Kier have now begun a staged demolition – expected to be completed within six months. To mark the start of the demolition, the University of Bristol has released a film featuring a poem written by Bristol City poet Vanessa Kisuule – entitled ‘Brick Me’ – capturing the history of the site.

Delay to demolition of old cinema The start of the demolition of the old cinema on Filwood Broadway has been delayed until the summer. Work was originally supposed to begin last summer and take 26 weeks - but was shelved for further tests after more asbestos was found on the site. The building first opened in 1938 and has lain empty since closing its doors in 1994. The council said last year it was “no longer practical to bring it back into use” after the asbestos was discovered inside. A Bristol City Council spokesperson says: “The demolition has been delayed because there has been a need to bring specialists in to initially survey and then to remove asbestos found at the site. "An ecological survey is also required, to be carried out in May, which will check there is no bat or bird activity on the site which could affect works." For more information about the demolition email housing.delivery@bristol.gov.uk

Free vet care Local pet owners will be able to access free or reduced cost veterinary care at The Park Centre in Daventry Road on Thursdays from March. Run by Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol ARC) - the offer will be available to all of BS4 1 postcodes and will also include some from BS4 2 (E, R and S as well as T, U and X). If you live in this area you will be able to benefit from free pet welfare checks and microchipping.

Residents in receipt of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit, Pension Credit and Universal Credit (with housing element), can also take advantage of free flea and worm treatment, non-emergency vet consultations and reduced cost neutering - arranged at a later date at the Bristol ARC clinic in St Philips. Senior Vet Officer at Bristol ARC, Damian Pacini, said: “We really hope that lots of petowning residents of Knowle will make use of our services at The Park… We will be able to offer basic treatments as well as consultations and advice…” To arrange a free appointment call 0117 972 4567.

New PCSO surgeries Residents now have the chance to meet and chat to their local Police Community Support Officers at monthly surgeries which have just started in Filwood Library. The next one takes place in the library on 6 March from 12-2pm – with local people welcome to drop in.

Have your say on transport plan The public are being asked to have their say to help improve how we travel around the region and beyond. The Joint Local Transport Plan 4 (JLTP4) sets out the approach to improve transport between now and 2036 in the West of England. The draft plan is available for people to give their views until 20 March with the final plan to be published later in 2019. Visit https://travelwest.info/projects/jointlocal-transport-plan

@MelissaMean Very proud of my two daughters & their gang of Year 6ers who took part in #SchoolStrike4Climate today in Bristol. This is what hope looks like.

News “Always believe” – Skemer’s Boxing Club saved By Community Reporter Charlie Watts Chris ‘Skemer’ Winters has at last found a new home for his Knowle West boxing club – after more than a year fighting to save it. Jubilee Hall in Wedmore Vale is the club’s new venue and due to open for classes on Monday 4 March.

An open day is planned Saturday 2 March, with several professional boxers expected to be there, including Skemer’s son Duane ‘The Gasman’ Winters, as well as former world champion boxers Glen Catley and Lee Haskins. Skemer – whose motto is “Always believe” – says he is “over the moon” to have been leased the council-owned building for his club which will continue to keep “young people off the streets.” “It’s somewhere for them to go where their parents know they’re safe,” he told The Knowledge. Since 2012, the club has been on land in Tavistock Road owned by The Park Centre. But in 2017, the organisation announced plans to sell the land to ensure its future - putting the boxing club at risk. Skemer tried unsuccessfully to find other buildings in the area – and was given an extension until the end of last year to find a new home for the club. Following a meeting at City Hall in November - he had the good news he could move into the building. He now has big plans for the club - including classes in boxing, judo, Muay Thai and yoga and starting women’s and mixed-gender boxing, He also hopes to open the building during the day, working with people with disabilities and special needs, as well as 16 - 24 year-olds who have been involved in crime. The open day will be held at Jubilee Hall, Wedmore Vale, on Saturday 2 March from 12-2pm. Visit Facebook: Skemer Winters.

Community split over £100m Broadwalk Shopping Centre plans

lans for the £100 million development of Broadwalk Shopping Centre have caused a split among local people. Broadwalk went into administration in 2017 and owners Moorfields are hoping these plans will prevent the ailing centre from having to close. A further blow was struck recently with the announcement Wilko would close its store in September. But many residents are worried about the height of the planned buildings of

It says: “…They will define the South Bristol skyline for decades to come, and could set a precedent for other high rise developments in South Bristol's suburbs. “We want Broadwalk Shopping Centre to be regenerated, but want planners to challenge the developers to create a mid-rise alternative (six storeys)…” A spokesman for Broadwalk Shopping Centre said six storeys would not work financially due to the

up to 12 storeys to house 420 flats and the parking problems they envisage around the area. Local people and traders who support the scheme say it will inject a new lease of life into the centre and create a valuable community asset. Plans include pulling down the multi storey car park which has structural issues and replacing it with enclosed parking. A mixed use scheme will include 40 -50 shops, as well as bars and cafes in a piazza opening into Redcatch Park. A petition has been started by Laura Chapman who lives close to the centre concerned about the height and density of the proposed buildings.

£15 million cost of refurbishing the centre and rebuilding the car park and they had pulled height back from neighbouring properties. He said: “Broadwalk, like many shopping centres and high streets, is in a downward spiral. “These plans are about turning this around, creating an exciting destination that brings people back, safeguards 450 jobs and delivers much needed housing in a great location… “The development will also financially support a new Residents Parking Zone should local residents want one…” The application is likely to go to council planning committee in March or April. Visit www.planningonline. bristol.gov.uk

Events to talk about the future of local libraries

strategy to think up a future for the city’s libraries – which could see them being handed over to the community to run. There will be the chance to discuss Filwood, Knowle, Marksbury Road, Wick and Bedminster Libraries at The Park Centre in Daventry Road on Tuesday 26 February and Saturday 2 March from 10am – 12pm. Anyone who can’t attend can fill in an online form until 30 April 2019 – or a form at their local library. For more information or to book visit: www.bristol.gov.uk/libraryideas

Bristol City Council is holding a series of events across the city to talk to residents and organisations about ways it can use libraries in their area. Last summer Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees announced that cuts which would have seen 17 out of 27 libraries closed had been shelved – following a public outcry. In October 2018 the council announced nearly half a million pounds had been allocated for a

@NeilMaggs2 It's been a long road for @WintersSkemer, but he has finally got a new place for his boxing club. He has thanked #Bristol Mayor @MarvinJRees saying, "He is a boxing man, who has come good for the people of Knowle West."

Marksbury Road Surgery – concern about design

News

Metrobus launch The new m1 metrobus service which runs from Hengrove to UWE and Cribbs Causeway finally launched in January – with free rides for passengers all day. The third and longest metrobus route aims to better connect people from South Bristol with the city centre and the north of the city. It includes stops at the end of Filwood Broadway and at Inns Court – taking over part of the 90 route. It follows the m3, launched in May last year serving Emersons Green to the city centre and the m2 in September – which runs from Long Ashton Park and Ride to the centre.

Metrobus reached its millionth customer at the end of January since the launch of the first route. Bristol Community Transport is operating the m1 service under contract to First West of England – and has invested in a fleet of 21 new buses running on bio gas generated from food and farm waste and sewage. The company has also created up to 60 new driver and support positions at its depot in Parson Street. Special iPoint machines have been placed by stops which are part of the “buy before you board” policy to reduce journey times. The buses also contain artwork featuring groups and organisations based along the route on the inside of the vehicles. For more information visit www.metro busbristol.co.uk

Changes to bus services Bus operator First West of England made sweeping changes to the South Bristol network in January – due to the launch of the m1 metrobus. But in the first week many residents were confused and complained about lack of information. Service 90 no longer serves the route along Creswicke Road, Inns Court

It’s been five months since the £4 million Marksbury Road Surgery opened its doors – and staff report things have settled down well after the first teething issues. Part of the Bridge View Medical Group, the building has been designed across two floors with a pharmacy on site. On the first floor are six treatment rooms for practice nurses, a room for minor operations and 11 GP and nurse practitioner rooms. This has allowed the centre to provide a home for the community midwives and a weekly specialised diabetic clinic run by Bristol Community Health. But some patients are not so happy with the design. Although loving the fact the new building is so “light and airy”, Ted Cockrell, Chair of the Patients Committee at the former Wedmore Practice, said he was concerned about the reception and main services being on the first floor. And he was worried it would not be so easy for people to vacate the building if there was a fire. He said: “…When the plans went on display for patient comments, most were shocked that they found they had to go upstairs. “They made their views known it was a bad idea, most receptions in any building are on the ground floor and Avenue, Novers Lane and Hartcliffe Way. The 91 and 92 have been introduced to replace existing services 2A, 50 and 50A and service 96 has been introduced as part of a major overhaul of the 36. First West of England has said “the overall impact of these changes is a significant increase in buses serving South Bristol.” The company will be looking to see how the m1 performs and this together with customer feedback, will be the basis on which they will “continue to develop” the South Bristol network. Jenny Young (68) from Inns Court said: “We got leaflets about the m1 but there’s been no information about the 90 stopping through here… What used to be the 36 – where is it? We’ve seen the 91 and 92 but it’s just confusing, there’s no information on the normal

buses around the area.” A First spokesperson said: “In terms of notices for the other service changes, as well as website information, buses have all displayed posters showing which services are going to change, and there is also a booklet that details the changes to the routes. "These have been circulated on the buses in the area in their leaflet holders. Some bus stops in the area also carry notices about changes.”

‫@ ‏‬WeCanMake_Our second Audio Cinema screening of our pilot WeCanMake ChatShow featuring #KnowleWesters chatting about how they are sorting out their housing. @NoBindings @knowlewestmediat

News

An e-petition to the council is asking for better opportunities for South Bristol – including jobs and facilities – not just housing. The campaign is being run by members of the South Bristol

Stakeholders group which consists of people who live and work in the area coming together to improve it. They want “more and better employment opportunities, more facilities and greater transport infrastructure.” The e-petition was submitted in January and the deadline for signatures is 31 March 2019. Zoe Probert who started the petition told The Knowledge: “This is not about confrontation. This is about trying to get that South Bristol voice heard. “Major decisions are being made and we as a South Bristol community want

to make sure any strategies and plans drawn up show clear opportunities and hope for our future. Not all of us live in poverty but some do, some of us have jobs but many don’t and our services are stretched. We love our city.” A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “The petition has been submitted to our online portal. The lead petitioner can present the petition at a meeting of the Full Council. If the petition has received a sufficient number of signatures it can be debated by councillors.” The petition can be found at www. democracy.bristol.gov.uk

Knowle West schools shine again

pupils achieving the expected grade. It has made the top ten for the past three years.

At sister school Ilminster Avenue E-Act Academy 67 % of pupils achieved the expected standard – also above the national average. The school has performed consistently well over the past few years and in last year’s results came third in the city. One South Bristol School which has turned it around is Perry Court E-Act Academy in Hengrove which went from 16% up to 69% under new Head Teacher Richard Healey. He said: “…The community - our parents and families - have really been part of this journey. It’s fantastic.” For full list of results visit: gov. uk/government/statistics/primaryschool-performance-tables-2018

apprentices and new staff. The event comes as latest UCAS figures reveal Bristol South sends just 15.9 % of its 18-year-olds to university – compared with 31.4 % nationally. In all other areas of the city the figure is significantly higher. Ms Smyth says: “I’m working with schools and colleges to ensure that more young people in Bristol South have the opportunity to go to university; but I recognise that university isn’t the only route to a decent career which is why I’ll continue to focus on quality apprenticeships… “…Many of the stalls at the fair are run by apprentices themselves, so it’s

a great opportunity to hear what it’s like from the people who know.” The South Bristol Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair will be held on Thursday 28 February from 11am-3pm at the South Bristol Skills Academy at Hengrove Park.

academy in Hengrove and Bristol’s largest school for 1,600 pupils in St Philips. Sam Carrier from The Park told The Knowledge: “Discussions are ongoing but no contract has been signed. Whatever happens in the future, The Park will remain on the Daventry Road site.” A spokesperson from Oasis Community Learning said they were in the early stages of negotiations and “unable to provide any detail at this stage.”

A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “We are currently working to increase school places in Bristol. Plans and negotiations are ongoing with the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) and key stakeholders regarding final locations for schools and school expansions.” A proposal by Bristol Grammar School to build a new school in Knowle was rejected in 2017 by the Department of Education.

Campaign for better opportunities in South Bristol

Primary school league tables for Year 6 SATs results have shown Knowle West’s Greenfield E-Act Academy to be one of the highest attaining schools in Bristol again. Figures released by the Department for Education in December showing pupil performance in last year’s Key Stage 2 exams have revealed an improvement across Bristol primary schools - with 63 % meeting the expected standard. Greenfield was the seventh highest attaining school in the city with 84% of

South Bristol Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair Jobseekers are being invited to come and meet employers at the South Bristol Jobs and Apprenticeship Fair in Hengrove at the end of February. Bristol South MP Karin Smyth has teamed up with City of Bristol College, Bristol City Council and the Department of Work and Pensions to organise the event – which takes place at the South Bristol Skills Academy. The fair will feature some of the city’s biggest employers looking to recruit

New secondary school for Knowle West? There is no further news on the possibility of a new secondary school being built in Knowle West on land at The Park Centre. With many secondary schools across the city oversubscribed – Oasis Community Learning is currently in talks to build a new secondary school which could be in the area. It is already planning to build a 900 place school next to the John Williams

Karin Smyth and Lee Probert with the City of Bristol College team at the 2018 Apprenticeships fair.

For the full stories visit our website

www.knowlewest.co.uk

@Oasisconnaught The count down is on! Exciting news for OAC as We prepare for our Connaught Half Marathon in Knowle west with @johnoasismurphy raising money for our community Hub. Everyone is welcome, get involved! Join Faye for running club Thursdays at 8:30

Your community www.knowlewest.co.uk

police report : Football sessions to connect with local young people By PC Hannah Fletcher

s the community police team for the Filwood and Knowle area we are always looking for new exciting ways to form links within our community. Our PCSOs and PC Kris Withers, our Youth Intervention officer, have teamed up with Bristol City Football Club Academy to offer a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with the young people in our community - as well as an opportunity for these young people to enjoy some constructive fun! Both boys and girls aged 6-16 of all abilities are welcome to come for a kick-about from 4.30-6pm every Thursday evening at Oasis Academy Connaught School. Sessions are indoors - so all that is required is a pair of trainers and a bottle of water. We aim to be able to reward participants who show good commitment and attitude with a free trip to Ashton Gate at the end of our programme to watch a game. We hope these sessions run by our PCSOs and PCs will encourage a positive outlet of energy. Football is a great way to develop social and communication skills - but above all it will be good fun for both us and the children participating. Any further questions about these sessions contact Lee.Gillett@BCFC. co.uk

Knowle West Alliance update By Community Development Worker Emily Smith It’s been a busy couple of months finding out about all the partners involved in the Alliance and meeting many of the groups and organisations in and around Knowle West. There’s such a wealth and variety of activities on offer and every group I have visited welcomes new members and participants. Whether photography, bingo, dance or bread making - there’s an activity out there for you. Library conversations The Alliance has been asked to lead up a local conversation around Filwood Library. There are two formal meetings arranged at The Park Centre in Daventry Road on Tuesday 26 February and Saturday 2 March, 10am-12noon. To get a free ticket go to www.bristol.gov.uk/libraryideas or visit your local library where the staff can help with your booking. Less formal will be conversations you can have with me. Catch me when I am out or send me an email/ Facebook message about how we can help shape a library for our future building on what we have locally for everyone in Knowle West.

Door knocking to build community spirit By Alex North I am a community worker and I have been working in the area for about two and a half years. Some of you may have met me out and about, through groups or on the doorstep. My role is to connect people together in Knowle West to build community spirit and make things better for everyone. I believe that by coming together people can make a difference and I have seen that happen in Knowle West many times since I have been here. I have found that the best way to reach everyone is by knocking on doors. On the doorstep I am interested in finding out the skills that local people have, the things they are interested in and want to learn and the things they would do together with other people in the community if they had the chance.

Sometimes other local people join me to door knock and meet their neighbours. If you would like to come along some time you would be welcome too! If anyone wants to meet up for a coffee and a chat, find out more about me or see what we can do together - get in touch. I work out of Knowle West Children’s Centre on some Wednesdays, otherwise you can contact me by email on alex.north@ bristol.gov.uk or by phone on 0758 530 7354.

@FestivalofIdeas As part of #HomesforHeroes100 @knowlewestmedia is looking for an artist, archivist and arts producer to work with 6 residents on a creative programme to uncover & celebrate Knowle West heritage. More details at https://bit.ly/2SxSfp5 #bristoljobs #artsjobs

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bristol@caremark.co.uk www.caremark.co.uk/bristol For the full stories visit our website

www.knowlewest.co.uk

Advert

Women’s Day Celebration in Filwood

Your community www.knowlewest.co.uk

How to be a Chef course starting April Square Food Foundation’s free course for young people interested in working in the food industry starts again at The Park Centre on 24 April. How To Be A Chef is run by the community cookery school three days a week over three months. Students will spend two of the days at the Square Food Foundation (SFF )teaching kitchen learning a variety of different techniques, skills and recipes. On the third day they will gain experience in different food businesses including restaurants, cafes, bakeries and shops. There will also be field trips, support with writing their CVs and the opportunity to gain their Food and Hygiene Certificate. SFF Founder and Head Teacher, Barny Haughton says: “…There are so many good reasons to do this course - it'll help get your confidence up, give you new skills, offer lots of new and unique opportunities and take you into the workplace. “Whether you've never boiled an egg or you're already a keen cook, if you like food and you want to find out more, we want to hear from you!" Letitia from Knowle West was one of the students who completed the 12-week course in December. She says: “Things have changed a lot since we started. We’ve got certificates, made lots of connections, had better experiences, helped at events…we have lots more knowledge of how things work.” Square Food is running taster days on Tuesday 2 and Wednesday 3 April from 10am - 1pm which are open to all. To find out more about the full course or the taster days, email eloise@square foodfoundation.co.uk or call 0117 903 9780. Letitia and Sam on last year’s course.

nternational Women’s Day will be celebrated once again in Knowle West this March with a free event at Filwood Community Centre. It will be run by Community in Partnership Knowle West (CIPKW) on Wednesday 6 March - with a host of activities ranging from yoga, beauty information and taster massage sessions to information stalls with details about local groups and courses. There will also be the chance to try your hand at dance, speak to health experts and get involved in some creative making activities with KWMC The Factory. The event for women only will run from 10am – 3pm in Filwood Community Centre’s main hall. Anyone wanting a stall can call June McNeill on 0117 914 9216.

Knowle West Scouts looking for leaders Knowle West Scout Group is looking for more leaders – so it can continue to run at Filwood Community Centre. The group is also looking to attract more young people aged ten and a half to 14 to join and take part in a packed programme of activities – which help build confidence, resilience and a sense of adventure. Hannah Cox from the Scouts says: “…To be a leader you don’t need a background in Scouting or experience working with young people, the most important thing is enthusiasm. “We provide a training programme … and complete things like DBS checks with new leaders so they are ready to create a really exciting programme for the Scouts. “In terms of time commitments – this varies from being the Scout

Community funding Bristol City Council is inviting people to come up with projects to improve their local neighbourhoods. Every year money is made available to communities through Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and Section 106 (S106) funding and the council is now looking for suggestions about how this should be spent.

Jess and Fiona on the KWMC The Factory stall at last year’s event

Scout group members at Knowle West Fest. Leader, which would be running the programme every week, to occasional helper which would mean you’d only help out every once in a while, perhaps on a parent rota. So there really is something to suit everyone! “ For more information on leading a Scout Group visit www.members. scouts.org.uk Knowle West Scout Group meets Thursdays 7-8.30pm in the main hall at Filwood Community Centre. If anyone is interested in joining or helping out contact Hannah Cox on 0796 618 6384 or email hannah. cox@scouts.org.uk Once people have come forward with ideas, local communities can work with ward councillors until 23 April to agree the shortlist - which will be developed into full proposals. Further information and a proposal form can be downloaded from www.bristol.gov.uk/peoplecommunities/funding-localprojects which should then be sent directly to local councillors Chris Jackson or Jeff Lovell or email areacomitteesix@bristol. gov.uk

@bpowlesland Sometime good things come to those that wait @UKScouting has worked with Knowle West for 4 yrs thanks to our partnership with @PearsFoundation now we have Beavers and Cubs run by amazing volunteers to serve the community for years to come #skills4life #learning #thankyou

Your community www.knowlewest.co.uk

Imagining the Northern Slopes in 2030

group of volunteers working to improve a local nature reserve is asking for people’s ideas to make the area better. The Northern Slopes Initiative (NSI) has produced a draft plan looking at a vision for the reserve by 2030 – which is open for comments until 31 March 2019. Recent figures from charity Fields in Trust estimate the wellbeing value from frequent use of parks and open spaces at £34.2 billion per year. The NSI hopes by 2030 the Slopes will be “a nature reserve for health and wellbeing, where people can engage in learning, volunteering, exercise, escaping the stresses of modern life and simply have fun.“

Chair of the NSI, Bob Franks, said: “The Slopes are already a great place for people and wildlife, and we would like to make them even better. “But to do that we need people’s views and their own ideas. The plan is just a step on the way to achieving improvements, but even more importantly we need others to work with us.”

Berry Maze litter pick event

All welcome with children’s litter picking kits available, games and free fruit for everyone – and people are advised to bring strong footwear. For information email malagocommunity@gmail.com

Picture Tanya Long

The Berry Maze in Malago Greenway has survived its first year – and now a litter picking event has been organised in March to clean up the park. The project was completed at the end of 2017 – with community group Malago Greenway Project working tirelessly to clear the overgrown piece of land between Marksbury Road and Parson Street, to create a maze with 15 types of berry for local people to forage. With over £4,000 raised through crowdfunding – it has been supported by local businesses, groups and Parson Street Primary School which created the winning design. Raluca Mckett who came up with the idea says: "The building and the supporting of the maze in its first year has been draining all of our resources… so sadly we had to put the litter picking on the back burner. "However, this year we are back in business and we are hoping to get as many of our neighbours on board, so we can all enjoy a clean, beautiful park..." The event is part of the Great Bristol Spring Clean and takes place on 23 March, between 10am and 12.30pm starting at the maze and covering the green space around it, including the River Malago.

The plan can be found on: www. northern-slopes-initiative.co.uk/ plan . For a paper copy, text the word PLAN and your name and address to 0779 608 0625.

Redcatch Community Garden re-opens in March Redcatch Community Garden will re-open in March with a range of activities promised for the community to enjoy. These include growing sessions - using traditional and innovative techniques - Messyplay for toddlers and Forest School as well as a new play area for the children. Roots Café will also be opening again - selling drinks and food made from their own produce. For more details find them on Facebook: Redcatch Community Garden.

Great Bristol Spring Clean The Great Bristol Spring Clean runs from 23 March to 23 April this year and is part of a national event to make a positive impact on our streets, parks and communities. Neighbours, friends and families are being invited to get together to do their own community litter picks – and reserve kits – which include sticks, tabards and bags. Visit bristolwastecompany.co.uk for more information.

There is also a quick online survey for people to fill in on www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/5NFSPN5 Comments can be emailed to enquiries@northern-slopes-initiatives.co.uk

My Wild Child back on The Bommie Avon Wildlife Trust’s free sessions for toddlers to experience the urban wild will be relaunching on The Northern Slopes on Wednesday mornings after February half term. Following a winter break - My Wild Child sessions will be back again on The Bommie with some "exciting new wild play and nature-based learning activities" for under-fives. Avon Wildlife Trust’s new Learning Development Officer Freya Morgan will be running the sessions.

She says: “We will be leading fun activities around what wildlife will be doing during spring and summer…Join us and play in the stream and spend time outside connecting to the natural world.” One parent said: “It’s especially important for little ones, we look at animals and bugs and things like that, but having something else that’s structured, that you can come to and enjoy with other children is really good.” My Wild Child will start on Wednesday 27 February from 10-11.30am. Meet at The Bommie entrance next to 105 Wedmore Vale. For more information visit: www. avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/mywildchild

@MerrywoodGPs There are loads of beautiful walks around Knowle west - this website helps you discover them and some of the history of the area http://bssw.org.uk/

Join a social group for old Merrywood pupils

Local stories

By Jan Packer Alpha Class (1968-75)

www.knowlewest.co.uk

bout this time last year I heard about a Facebook group dedicated to sharing memories about my old school Merrywood. I signed up cautiously – I’d never been a big fan of social media sites mainly through all the attention from the media where tales of all sorts were rife. What I found was a place where so many people - some familiar names – were posting photos and stories which brought back my youth - not so long ago otherwise surely that would never have worked!

In March the “regulars” Richard and Philip, organised the first group social where anyone could drop in for a cuppa and put faces to names and meet old friends. I went along and we had so many laughs we decided to meet up every month and hope others would join in. If you went to Merrywood why not join us on Facebook? If I can do it, anyone can. Or come and meet us at Grounded Cafe in East Street, Bedminster at 3pm on the fourth

Friday of every month. Stay for a cup of tea or stay all afternoon. Regulars are on the brink of retirement age and a good 20 years past. We have some teachers involved on the Facebook page so we are an absolute mine of all things Merrywood - and are always keen to hear more stories. Maybe there’s a book in it? I hope to see some new faces online or in person. Facebook Group: Merrywood Grammar School Bristol

Filwood Broadway cafe to close By Lewis Campbell The family-run Filwood Broadway café has announced it will be closing its doors in March - after only a year of trading in Knowle West. Having opened in March 2018, the Filwood Park Coffee House and Merrywood School in 1969 with Headmistress Miss Gray (centre). Confectionary soon became a local and convenient destination to grab a coffee and bacon sandwich. Their idea to combine a coffee and sandwich shop with traditional sweets and milkshakes was unique and instantly popular with locals and children. Owned by Knowle Wester Robin Cornick, it has been a family enterprise with his wife Debbie and daughters Kerrie and Lisa all working there. But the family have reluctantly had to give notice on the property saying one of the main reasons for the closure is due to the high monthly rental. They say the summer of 2018 saw the café very busy daily – but as the winter months closed in, business became less frequent. Coupled with the high costs of rent and utility bills, this has forced them to cease serving coffee and sandwiches to the community at the end of March. Robin who had a café in Broadwalk 13 years ago came back to the area because he ‘wanted the Broadway to take www.dogstrustdogschool.org.uk off” and he always felt the key to his businesses success bristoldogschool@dogstrust.org.uk was “the regeneration of the area.” This is the second local café that has been forced to stop 07393 141746 trading in the area – with Conoisseur Café closing on Melvin bristol_dogschool fb.com/dogstrustdogschool dogstrustdogschool Square last September because of a rent increase.

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Local stories

New battery kit to turn your bike electric By Lewis Campbell

www.knowlewest.co.uk

nowle West-based cycling engineering company Revolutionworks Ltd has just launched a revolutionary new accessory-to turn a bicycle into an E-bike. The Revos is an innovative E Bike battery kit that can be fitted to virtually any bicycle and provide electric power assistance up to 15.5 miles an hour. The initial concept was the idea of motor engineer and director Hugo Palmer. Back in 2011 he built the first prototype using a 3D printer and a cheap

battery motor and was surprised to find it worked well. Since then, much work has been done to refine the final product. A successful Kickstarter Funding Appeal back in 2018 enabled the Revolution Works team to put The Revos into production - and they are currently in the process of shipping the first batch out to those who pledged to the Kickstarter. Some 90% of the unit is built and assembled in Filwood Green Business Park - with only the main battery component manufactured by a third-party company. Co-director Mark Palmer says they decided to pick the Business Park as the desired location for the company, because “the building is sustainable as is our product and overall, it’s a really nice place to be.” He explains: “Our aim is to become an engineering company and the building will allow us to expand our work here.” The product has been well

Filwood Quietway completed in May

aim of tackling pollution by encouraging more people out of their cars. A Bristol City Council said: “The Northern Slopes cycle improvements are due to be completed and open to the public by end of February, access to the upper portion of the path is already open.

A cycling and walking path through Knowle West is due to be completed by the end of May. The Filwood Quietway stretches from Hengrove to the city centre with the

Hazel is retiring from Filwood Library By Community Reporter Kasia Groves Filwood Library supervisor Hazel Lawrie is retiring in March - having been with the Bristol Library Service for over 14 years. Starting her career with the service in 2004, Hazel was initially the Library Assistant at Marksbury Road - while covering holiday and sickness leaves across other libraries in the south of the city. She then moved onto delivering 'enrichment sessions' to young offenders in the library at HM Prison Ashfield in South Gloucestershire. Speaking of how her role has changed over the years, she says: "At first, my job was divided into four sections; managing staff, library stock, working on the frontline with

the public and running the buildings. “Now it covers so much more there is health and safety to deal with, more financial and electronic banking aspects and administrative duties - even down to ordering washing up liquid!"

As with any job, there have been ups and downs - but Hazel’s fondest memories are of the many events that have taken place in Filwood library.

Family business: Hugo, Mark and Leo Palmer of Revolutionworks. received and is already selling through their website which means the company saves on costs. Mark says: “Eventually we would like to sell through cycle stores as it will be great publicity for us, and people will be able to try out The Revos in other parts of the country.” As well as commuters and cycle couriers, the team believes the power assistance of the E bike battery kit will also be a great product to encourage older people to get out and cycle more. The Revos has also impressed many of the popular cycling websites - garnering highly favourable reviews from the likes of BikeRadar.com and BikeBiz.com Visit: www.revolutionworks.com

“Wedmore Vale is due to be completed by end of May. The council will be promoting the new routes during spring and early summer.” For more information visit: www.travelwest.info These include knitting and shared reading groups and visits from Zoolab and Fizzpop Science - along with the many refurbishments of the staff area and the art space, with wonderful displays from local and not so local artists. The people she has worked with in both the library and the community have also played a big part. She says: "… You've all made me feel so welcome and I shall miss the friendly faces, the banter, the jokes and at times the seriousness." Hazel, who is in her 60s, is planning on moving away from the Bristol area to be closer to her son who recently got married - and looking forward to being a grandmother one day. And of her plans for the future - having more time to indulge her love of reading and going travelling are definitely on the agenda. "I’m not sure where at the moment maybe Japan, India, China, New Zealand, South America... who knows? I'll keep you posted.”

@knowlewestmedia If you've been on Leinster Avenue recently you might've seen these colourful spots - a temporary trail between KWMC & one of the venues we partnered with last year to create a new exhibition, inspired by Knowle West. Follow the dots and see where they lead...

School news

Bridge Learning Campus awarded Duke of Edinburgh funding By Business Manager Ally Bigwood

www.knowlewest.co.uk

Farm experience for Oasis Academy Connaught pupils In January Year 6 children from Oasis Academy Connaught visited a working farm in Wales through charity Farms for City Children. This offers urban children from all over the country a unique opportunity to live and work together for a week at a time on a real farm in the heart of the countryside. Three pupils write about their stay: Farm Camp By Reece, Chloe and Victoria On 11th January 2019 Year 6 from Oasis Academy Connaught went to Lower Treginnis Farm. While we were there we fed loads of farm animals such as: pigs, goats, sheep, piglets, ducks, geese, horses and donkeys. Then we went to the sheep shed and held new born lambs, they felt like soft and silky clouds. What we learnt: a female sheep is called a ewe and a male is called a ram. On Tuesday 15th we went to St David’s Cathedral and got to sit in the Sacred Space where it is normally cut off from the public! It was an epic journey.

Pupils Weronika and Victoria on the farm.

Staff take on fitness challenge

ridge Learning Campus is delighted to have been awarded a grant of over £3,000 to run the Duke of Edinburgh’s Diamond award programme. The Diamond funding money will allow us to buy new equipment to support our Bronze and Silver participants. With the funding, we will be buying some new group kit including tents, portable stoves and first aid kits - as well as personal kit such as waterproof jackets and trousers, sleeping bags and rucksacks. Teacher Hayley Wallace who leads the scheme at the school said: “The Duke of Edinburgh award gives our students an amazing opportunity to develop personally as well as developing key employability skills and having lots of fun. “…We want to continue to encourage as many students as possible to take part in such an amazing opportunity and the funding bid will support us with this.” Students have to complete four sections for the award: volunteering in their communities or at school, learning a new skill and taking part in a physical activity. For the final section they plan and undertake an expedition where they walk for two days and camp overnight. Full story www.knowlewest.co.uk

Bridge Learning Campus pupils on Glastonbury Tor. Training is fitted round teaching 4 May – when they will be raising hours – with staff also going outside funds for the NSPCC. in the school garden to run and Family Link Worker Lucy Hooper using treadmills at home. (42) was the motivator who entered Acting Head Teacher Matt Caldwell the team into the race. said: “We want to encourage as She told The Knowledge: “We many of our families and children started training after Christmas and down to the Bristol 10k as possible. run no less than three times a week. It isn’t just about us being fit – it’s We are doing the Couch to 5k or about lifelong fitness for our Couch to 10k… families…” “It’s about our wellbeing so For more information about families and children can see about the race visit: www.greatrun.org fitness. Before the run we are going to promote health and fitness in the school…” Usain Bolt here we come. Staff from Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery School preparing for the 10k.

Staff at a Knowle West school have donned their sweat bands and running gear and been braving the cold weather to train for the Bristol 10k in May. The intrepid team of ten from Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery School have decided to get fit and take on the challenge – despite some of them never having run before. They feel it they are setting a good example for pupils - and are asking families to come and support them on

@knowle_dge We are DELIGHTED that Year 7 pupil Harley has been voted part of the Youth Council. It's fantastic that there is representation from a SEN school as our young people's voices aren't always included, something Harley us keen to change! @BristolCYC @BristolLive @BristolCouncil

Column

Upcycle your old T-shirt By Sarah-Jayne Turner of Pickles Craft Emporium

www.knowlewest.co.uk

f you're bouncing into spring with a clear out - why not upcycle your T-shirts? Spring is often associated with cleaning and an old T-shirt can make an ideal rag. However, they can be utilised in a number of other ways - bags, rugs and even flowers. The great thing about using T-shirts as material is that they don’t fray when you cut them.

A shopping bag is an ideal upcycle. This make does require some sewing skills and a sharp pair of scissors, but it’s great for those band Tee’s you just don’t want to part with. With the T-shirt inside out, stitch the long length along the bottom. Then cut off the sleeves (they will become your handles) and finally cut off the hemming around the neck. You can also adapt this slightly to make a peg bag, just add a coat hanger. For a no sew version you can just knot the bottom.

Or why not try making your own rug? Cut T-shirts into long strips, tie the strips together and just start knitting. Finally, no knit or sew options are flowers. As in nature, flowers come in all shapes and sizes - so too can T-shirt flowers. From cutting and laying petals for crafting and quilting to knotting and tying. The fabric can also be dyed or if doing this activity with children, coloured in.

For any questions on upcycling you can contact me on mrspicklescraftemporium@ gmail.com, find me on Facebook @Picklescraftemporium or visit www.PicklesCraftEmporium.com

Knowledge Survey – tell us what you think Your views are important to us – so we’re carrying out a survey to help us develop The Knowledge magazine and secure future funding. Your survey will be put in a random prize draw and we’re offering a £50 shopping voucher of your choice for the winner. If you would like to enter please include your name and contact details below so we can let you know if you win. You can enter online at: www.knowlewest.co.uk/knowledge-survey or simply cut out the survey and post it in one of the boxes around the area at: Knowle West Media Centre in Leinster Avenue; Filwood Library; Inn’s Court Family and Community Centre; re:work on Filwood Broadway; Filwood Community Centre; Knowle West Health Park; The Park and Marksbury Road Library. Please complete by Tuesday 23 April. Do you read The Knowledge?

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Please let us know what makes you want to read it.

Does The Knowledge make you feel more part of the community? Yes No Do you feel able to send in or suggest content? Yes No If yes, what makes this possible? / If not, why not and what can we do to help?

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Your information will be stored securely at KWMC until the prize draw has been completed. After this, it will be securely destroyed. We ask your age and gender so we can understand who reads the Knowledge and make sure it’s accessible to a wide range of groups, but you don’t have to provide this information. This information will be stored separately from your name and contact details so you won’t be identifiable.To find out more contact enquiries@kwmc. org.uk or 0117 903 0444. Our Privacy Policy can be found at www.kwmc.org.uk/privacy

Gardening Column

By Allotment Coordinator and Well-being Facilitator Fleur Handley Though March officially marks the beginning of spring, the weather can be unpredictable with longer sunny days accompanied by frosts and high winds - remember last year’s snow days! However, there are things that you can start doing in your garden so that you are ready to go when the weather turns.

MARCH: • Sow your own flower seeds, herbs and early vegetables in seed trays indoors in a warm and bright location. • Gardens could very well need a general tidy up at this time and keep a look out for any weeds that are beginning to appear. • Chit (start shooting roots) your early crop potatoes by placing them in a dry, cool location.

MAY: • May is the month that kicks up a gear, as vegetable and flower plants can be planted outdoors into their final growing position. • Start taking care of lawns to get that appearance we love so much! • Earth up your potatoes. • Sow courgette, pumpkin and sweetcorn seeds in a bright position indoors. • Weed your borders once a week to stop weeds becoming established.

APRIL: • Hanging baskets can be planted up and kept indoors while the plants grow on. • If any rhubarb flowers appear then cut them out near the base as they will steal energy from the plant. • Sow carrots, peas, beetroot, broccoli, salad crops - and much more - directly in their desired final location. Order your tomato plants.

Vegetable and Goat's Cheese Cornish Pasties INGREDIENTS: Pastry: 400g plain flour 200g chilled butter, diced, or half butter and half lard or white vegetable fat pinch of salt 4-6 tbsp chilled water Filling: 1 sweet potato 2 medium sized carrots 1 stick celery, trimmed 150g swede 150g potato 1 leek 1 cob of corn, optional, kernels removed 1 onion A little mixture of chopped fresh thyme, rosemary and sage 50g goat's cheese 50g grated cheddar cheese Salt & pepper 1.Making the pastry: Sift flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut the fat into flour and use your fingertips to rub it in until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

3.Making the filling: First chop the onion, celery and leek quite fine and put them in a pan with a little olive or sunflower oil and sauté until soft. 4. Meanwhile, peel and dice the root vegetable into ½ cm cubes and add to the pan. Toss the vegetables together add corn, season lightly with salt and pepper and allow to simmer until vegetables are soft. Add the herbs, and remove to a bowl to cool. 5. Assembling the pasties: Make six 80g balls out of the pastry and roll them into flat discs, 15cm diameter. Put some vegetable mix in the middle of each disc and then a little crumbled goat's cheese and grated cheddar on top of the vegetables. Moisten the edges around the mixture the fold the disc over and press the edges together. To get that traditional pasty crust, roll the pressed-together edge in towards the middle to form a ridge. 6. Brush with a little milk and egg mixture and bake at 185C for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Recipe from Square Food Foundation Cookery School.

2. Sprinkle water evenly over mixture and mix lightly until dough comes together. Add a little more water if mixture is too dry. Bring mixture together and knead lightly on floured surface. Wrap dough in cling-film and chill for about 30 minutes.

@sandyhruthven Best cake in the west (Knowle west) @LinkAgeNetwork sale @theparkknowle today!

1. The Badminton Group which meets at The Park Centre on Mondays from 3-4pm is looking for new members. (Picture Emily Smith).

2. A ‘Walk and Talk App’ was

launched at Knowle West Health Park in February by the Community Access Support Service (CASS) for Time to Talk Day . It was promoting that it’s good to talk about mental health and wellbeing. (Picture of the Buggy Walk by KWMC).

3. Year 5 pupils from School of Christ the King spent three days in the Forest of Dean with activities such as zip wiring, orienteering and star gazing. (Picture School of Christ the King).

4. Live Jazz and Swing takes place at The Park Centre on the first Tuesday of the month - with Bristol-based five piece Around About Dusk playing popular numbers from the 1920s to 40s. 5. Filwood Broadway was magically transformed by the recent snow in February. (Picture Ian Watt).

6. Youth Moves juniors created a mosaic ribbon as a piece of art work for Cancer Awareness Day at their Thursday youth club night. (Picture Alistair Dale).

7. Square Food Foundation’s over 55s

group meets on Mondays to cook and eat together. They have been working with 91 Ways to bring different cooking cultures to the group. (Picture Square Food Foundation).

8. KWMC held an Audio Cinema event to hear the first episode of We Can Make Chat Show - where Knowle Westers discuss how they are sorting out their housing. Makala Cheung hosting the chat show last year. (Picture Will Taylor). 9. The Shared Reading group, led by

volunteer Veronica, which gets together at Filwood Library on Friday mornings for tea, chat and stories. (Picture KWMC).

Want your picture featured in the Knowledge? Email photos of your event, group or activity based in the Knowle West area to sue@kwmc.org.uk

@callumcollins I found out today that there used to be a community television channel in Knowle West in the 70s. I watched a few clips on display in the @mshedbristol museum, and they’re hilarious. #Bristol

Health Help for smokers to quit Smokers who want to ditch the habit can receive free advice and support on National No Smoking Day on 13 March at Knowle West Health Park. Healthy Lifestyle Co-Ordinator at Knowle West Healthy Living Centre

(KWHLC), Stella Picton, says she can help people get started on their journey to “become smoke-free for life”. She says: “Everything you are and everything you have is because of a decision you once made. Decide to quit smoking, and nothing will stop you.”

Smokers who want help to quit can call Stella on 0773 964 9839.

Could you be an ACE Neighbour?

New junior basketball hub launches in March Bristol Flyers Basketball Club will be launching a new junior community hub in March at The Park Centre in Knowle West. The Flyers’development hubs are for boys and girls aged eight to 16. They are a way to get young people involved in basketball, learning from a team of qualified and experienced coaches. The hub will take place on Mondays from 6-7.30pm, starting on 4 March - with the first session free. For more information and to book visit www.bristolflyers.co.uk or email claire. buckingham@bristol-sport.co.uk

Seeking older people for the ACE Neighbours project in Filwood!

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Health Become a Tai Chi instructor Age UK Bristol is giving over 50s the chance to join a free training course in Tai Chi to become an instructor in their community. The course is being offered through the Friends Ageing Better (FAB) project - which provides older people with opportunities to get out and about and maintain contact with friends and neighbours. Participants will learn the basic sequence of Shibashi Tai Chi to teach to others in their local area particularly older people. This form of exercise is found to improve health and wellbeing and for older people can also reduce the risk of falls. Training involves six weekly sessions, a one-day workshop and written assignment. It starts Tuesday 5 March from 4.30-6.30pm at both a south and a central Bristol venue. For more information contact fab@ageukbristol.org.uk , call 0117 929 75 37 or visit www.ageuk bristol.org.uk

Stepping out for Bristol Walk Fest Residents will be able to put their best foot forward at the annual Bristol Walk Fest taking place throughout the city during May. The month-long festival, now in its seventh year, regularly attracts over 2,000 walkers from across the city and beyond. Events are mostly free and for all ages and fitness levels. They range from historical tours and nature walks to exploring street art and walking sports. This year’s Bristol Walk Fest is coordinated by Active Ageing Bristol, a collaboration between Bristol Sport Foundation, The Anchor

Diabetes support comes to Filwood Community Centre

Chair Mike Deane, his wife Veronica (Secretary) with Groups Treasurer Sandra Tweddell.

local diabetes support group which helped its founder put his condition into remission is branching out to offer help to others in the area and attract new members. The Diabetes UK Bristol South group which meets at Knowle West Healthy Living Centre (KWHLC) has now started quarterly drop-in support sessions at Filwood Community Centre on a trail basis. Mike Dean who is also Chair of the group says: “We are trying to go deeper into the community so people can find out who we are, what we do and what support we offer. We are open to people with diabetes and partners…” cut taken out here Mike (75) has been running the South Bristol group at KWHLC for seven years - and managed to put his Type 2 Diabetes into remission by completely changing his lifestyle.

Alive‘N’ Kicking A free service supporting families and their children to lead a healthier lifestyle will be starting its next 10-week programme in April. Alive ‘N’ Kicking is in its third year in Knowle West and is also holding sessions at Hengrove Leisure Centre. Programme Manager Holly Buckingham says: “Alive ‘N’ Kicking is a free healthy lifestyle programme for children aged between five and 16 and their families, who together want to lose weight, eat healthier and become more active.” Families attend healthy eating and

He started to eat more healthily, took up walking and gave up smoking – and also lost five stone. Now he is eager to highlight the benefits of attending the group and attract new members. He says: “I have gained good insights into how to live with diabetes and also to help other people through sharing stories and education… “There’s nothing like sharing your tips and experiences when you live with a challenging condition...” Diabetes UK Bristol South meets six times a year at at Knowle West Health Park, the next meeting is 25 March from 6-8pm. The next drop-in at Filwood Community Centre is Thursday 7 May, 10am – 2pm. For more information contact Mike on 0749 484 9739 or email md@diabetesbristol.org.uk. nutrition workshops, learn how to read food labels and receive weekly recipes. They also have the chance to make smoothies and fruit kebabs. Programmes start at the end of April at The Park Community Centre in Daventry Road for 11-16s and at Hengrove Leisure Centre for five -11s. To reserve a place call: 0117 942 2602 or email bristol@ank.uk.com

Society and St Monica Trust. They are working in partnership with Age UK Bristol - with funding from Active Ageing Bristol and Travelwest. The festival will run from 1-31 May with the deadline for entering an event 1 March. Email info@bristolwalkfest.co.uk or visit www.bristolwalkfest.com for more information. Members of the Monday walking group at Knowle West Health Park.

@CASSNatalie1 #thepurplebox is in Filwood Library for the next 2 months! Go and have a look to see what fun things are inside! #thepurplebox #bristol #mentalhealth #wellbeing #filwood #knowlewest @BristolLibrary

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Young People's page Local siblings form new musical duo By Charlie Watts From making music in their bedrooms - a new local musical duo who grew up in Knowle West are now performing on stage at Bristol venues and events. Perfect Soul is made up of my sister and brother Chelsea (25) and Sam Watts (22), both of whom are musically gifted: Chelsea sings, while Sam plays the keyboard. The talented two-piece will be playing a gig at Snooker City on Saturday, 30 March – and I spoke to them to find out why people should come along. “From the old classics to the modern hits of today, our lively performances always create a great party atmosphere and are certain to get you up dancing or tapping your feet,” says Sam, a recent music graduate. Chelsea adds: “People should come see us perform because there are not many keyboard and vocal duos on the music scene at the moment -

University life

By Luke Dean (19) I am a secondyear theatre and performance student at the University of Plymouth, but I do not see myself as your stereotypical booze-obsessed,

Complied and edited by Charlie Watts

and I think we have such a fun and funky vibe.” Perfect Soul came about because the pair have created music together for many years - writing their own songs and releasing original material while Sam was on breaks from university. Chelsea explains: “After he graduated, we decided we wanted to progress as musicians and we spoke about advertising ourselves as a pop/soul duo for weddings and events. "Sam came up with the name Perfect Soul, we then chose our set list songs, created a website and purchased our performing equipment…” The pair followed this by many rehearsals in order to perfect their set list before performances. night-club loving student. I don’t drink and I don’t like going to nightclubs. It’s just not for me. But that’s not say I’m against those that do; I very much believe that people should do whatever floats their boat. Admittedly, it can be difficult and lonesome feeling separated and maybe even taunted for preferring Netflix to a night club. But really, there should be nothing wrong with that because there is no one way of going through university.

Sam adds: “We have recorded many songs together in the past and have had support from local radio shows. “Recording songs together and hearing them being played back on the radio is great - but being able to perform live as a band is even more exciting. “So we formed Perfect Soul as an opportunity for us to perform more live shows as a duo, both in Bristol and further afield.” You can find out more about Perfect Soul's gig at Snooker City in Broadwalk Shopping Centre, Knowle on 30 March by visiting the Facebook event: https://bit. ly/2S5okUp. It is from 9-11.30pm and free to attend. You can also book Perfect Soul for weddings and events and see videos of them performing by heading to their website: www.perfectsoul.co.uk

At the end of the day, the whole point of me going to uni is to get a degree, but the ‘uni life’, as it’s called, is also something I put on a high pedestal. My fear of missing out drags me into environments I feel I can’t contribute or relate to. But that said, there have been those rare exceptions where I have gone somewhere out of my comfort zone and ended with something gained such as a new friend. So uni has definitely taught me that branching out and trying new things can be rewarding.

Try something new for 2019 Jump Studios - Creative Hub Knowle West Media Centre

Knowle West Scouts Filwood Community Centre

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Remi and Crystal (10):

Nathan (11):

Scott and Conner (16):

“We have learnt how to use the music studio and record our own songs. We enjoy coming to Creative Hub because it's lots of fun and we get to meet new people.”

“ I like going because you can make friends, try new things, and it's really fun!”

"We come to burn off energy, work with the squad and make friends."

@fth_BRISTOL We very fortunate to have Youth Club from Knowle West to join us as part of your Urban Project and Both Junior and senior team has cooked the meals as well as ready to walk with trolleys for the outreach tonight to feed the cold lonely homeless on the streets of Bristol.

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Celebrating 100 years of council housing 2019 marks 100 years since the beginning of the first major period of council house building in the UK. In recognition of this anniversary we’ll be exploring the history of council housing in Knowle West and how the landscape, architecture and culture of the area have changed with the decades. Having been based here for over twenty years, we know that Knowle West is full of stories and characters that can sometimes be overlooked by the wider city. We also know there’s plenty more to be uncovered… So, over the next year we’ll be bringing local people and artists together to explore this local heritage and share it as widely as possible - through performances, making activities and events. These activities are part of a programme of Bristol projects that was recently awarded funding from the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). The Homes For Heroes 100 programme includes this project in Knowle West and will also work with communities including Sea Mills and Hillfields. Homes For Heroes 100 is coordinated by the Bristol Cultural Development Partnership. If you’re interested in making, history, housing, getting creative or sharing what's special about Knowle West with the world we’d love to hear from you! For more details contact Melissa or Martha on 0117 903 0444.

Regular activities We’re always keen to hear from people who are interested in making, technology, music, film and the arts. Our programme is updated regularly and includes a range of activities, from sessions for young people to projects about specific issues like housing and health. The majority of our activities are free and we also offer opportunities for volunteering and work experience. Check out the latest projects at kwmc.org.uk/projects or drop in and see us! Events take place at our Leinster Avenue site unless otherwise stated. For details about any of these activities call 0117 903 0444 or visit tinyurl.com/knowledge-spring19

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Join the dots across Knowle West!

f you've been around Leinster Avenue recently you might have spotted these colourful spots. They're part of a temporary trail between KWMC and one of the venues we partnered with last year to create a new exhibition of artworks, inspired by Knowle West. Why not follow the dots and see where they lead...then share your photos with @knowlewestmedia on social media! The artworks will be exhibited at KWMC until June 2019, so you haven’t missed the chance to see them. They include a music box where you can record your own lyrics for a song about Knowle West, a seed potting station, an interactive video installation, and fabrics decorated with drawings of local characters. Over the next few months we’ll be hosting drop-in workshops inspired by the exhibition: try your hand at planting (27 February), using green-screen www.kwmc.org.uk

technology (27 March) and singing (24 April). The workshops are free and will take place from 12 – 1pm. Find out more via tinyurl.com/knowledge-spring19

Leinster Avenue, Bristol BS4 1NL

Community Journalism Tuesdays, 1 – 2.30pm (term time only, free) Learn how to research and write your own articles and see your work published in the Knowledge. No journalism experience necessary. Silver Screen Film Club Tuesdays, 1.30pm: 19 March, 16 April, 14 May, 11 June (ages 50+) *Novers Park Community Centre, Novers Park Road (behind KWMC). Enjoy a movie and meet new people. Membership just £5 per year. Do you need help to sort your CV, use your tablet or access online services, such as shopping online? Our friendly team offer free one-to-one sessions to help you get to grips with technology. Call 0117 903 0444 and ask for Lewis or Emm.

0117 903 0444

Forthcoming events Introduction to Digital Photography Saturday 9 March, 10am – 4pm (ages 16+, £65) Leave the 'auto' setting behind with this beginners' course. Topics covered include understanding shutter speed, focusing, and capturing fast moving objects. Advanced Photography Skills Saturday 23 March, 10am – 4pm (ages 16+, £65) Step up your skills or refresh your current knowledge. Learn how to photograph a model, make the most of light, and re-touch images. Introduction to Studio Photography Saturday 6 April, 10am – 4pm (ages 16+, £65) Learn more about working in a studio environment, including setting up a studio, working with a model, editing and lighting.

Making at The Factory Make you own… Laser-cut Easter Decorations Thursday 11 April, 10am – 12.30pm (ages 16+, £38) KWMC: The Factory, Units 24 & 25 Filwood Green Business Park, 1 Filwood Park Lane Create colourful Easter-themed delights to decorate your home: learn how to design and make a laser-cut Easter card and decoration.

Knowle West Healthy Living Centre

www.knowlewesthealthpark.co.uk For more information call: 0117 377 2255 email: info@knowlewesthealthpark.co.uk Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road, Bristol, BS4 1WH

Keeping Active (for adults) Mental Health & Wellbeing Gentle Exercise Class For people with reduced mobility who want to stay fit. Monday 10 – 11 am | £3.50

Hips, Bums and Tums Two friendly groups to help you tone up. All sizes, all abilities, no experience needed. Tuesday 6—7 pm & 7 - 8pm | £3.50 Tai Chi Movement for Wellbeing Give yourself the gift of relaxation and let your mind and body release tension and stress Wednesday 10.30 -11.45am | £4

Art Ease Group (Tue and Wed morning). Are you feeling stressed, experiencing low mood or depression, coping with change, feeling lonely or caring for someone else. Improve your self confidence, learn new skills and make new friends. No experience needed. £1 a session (call for referral).

Step Aerobics Meet new friends and burn those calories Thursday 6 - 7pm | £3.50

Ear Acupuncture (11 - 12 pm Friday) Gentle and relaxing therapy which can relieve a range of health issues, from general aches and pains to stress and anxiety. £5

Stretch & Roll Workout Womens exercise class with an introduction to Jiu Jitsu & Ginastica Yoga. Call: Adrienne 07962 914002 Thursday 7.30 - 8.30pm | £3

Man Alive Breakfast (first Friday of the month) A welcoming group for men where you can meet and make new friends.

Boot Camp—Military Style Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday (mornings and evening) Call: Jason 07855 465872.

Lip Reading Class (10 - 12pm Friday) Supportive, friendly weekly class £4.00 a session.

Walking Groups Friendly, regular walking groups to suit your level of walking. From short, very gentle walks through to whole morning walks and monthly social walks. Supported by our welcoming, trained volunteer Walk Leaders.

Fit & Fab (10 - 12pm Thursday). A women's only support group: Encouragement from others to help you build self-esteem, confidence and improve your health. Call Sally 0117 903 0024 to find out more.

Bike Rides Starting at the Health Park from April 2018. See website for ride dates and times bikeminded@lifecycleuk.org.uk

Healthy Eating Waist Watchers Mon 9.30 - 10.30am & 4 - 5pm FREE Drop In: Weekly weigh-in, plus advice and support on how to lose weight and keep it up.

Smoking Cessation Get help to stop smoking. One to one sessions offering support to stop smoking or switch to vaping. Call: Stella 07739 649839

Children’s Activities Drop in and Play with Stretch ‘n’ Grow Lots of fun and games for pre-schoolers Age 2-5 years (term time only) Tuesday 9.30 - 11.30am. £1 FREE Play Session - open access A wide range of activities games, arts and crafts, camp fire cooking (with Learning Partnership West). Age 8 -12 years. Wednesday 3 - 5pm Outside at the Play Pod Inferno Beatz Dance Class Regardless of age or ability, come and try street dancing. Age 4-11 years (term time only) Wednesday 5.30 - 6.30pm | £4

Women of Worth (6.30 - 8.30pm Wednesday) Friendly support group for local women with a range of activities Community Access Support Service CASS works with community, equalities and faith groups (big & small) in Bristol. If you’d like information about how to support the emotional wellbeing of your group members and local communities email Natalie.campbell@cassbristol.org

One to One Advice Social Prescribing (SPEAR) Social Prescribing is an approach that seeks to improve your health by looking at social, physical and emotional wellbeing. We offer a free, confidential 1 to 1 service. The support will enable you to access social or community activities and resources in your local area. Self referrals welcome.

Free NHS Health Checks If you are aged 40 - 74 years old book yourself a free ‘Health MOT’. To be eligible you must be: aged 40-74 years registered with a Bristol GP not receiving treatment for a cardiovascular condition (diabetes, heart or kidney disease, high blood pressure or high cholesterol)

Other services The Green House Rape and sexual abuse counselling for men & children (under 18 yrs). 0117 935 1707 Diabetes UK Support Group for anyone affected by diabetes. 07494 849739 Thyroid Support Group Last Friday of each month. 0117 377 2255 Bristol Tranquilliser Project 0117 950 0058

Advertorial

theparkcentre.org.uk

Daventry Road, Knowle, Bristol BS4 1DQ

The Park’s community cafe is open every week day from 8am - 4pm. n

It’s a light, comfortable, social place to work or meet friends.

WiFi is available free of charge.

Our food is freshly prepared including snacks, breakfasts, main meals, home made cakes, sandwiches and daily specials.

Or just pop in and choose from a wide range of coffees, hot and cold drinks. Takeaways are also available.

Starting journeys, inspiring lives

During March and April we are offering The Knowledge readers

50% off our Afternoon Tea

A delicious cream tea treat with a cup of tea, two scones, jam and cream for £2.75. Please bring a copy of this advert when you visit to redeem this offer.

FREE activities for young people in South Bristol Youth Clubs

Youth Clubs

Music Studio

Urban Escape

The Park, Knowle West

Bridge Learning Campus Mondays during term time after school Years 6-9

The Park, Knowle West Tuesdays & Wednesdays 2-8pm

Roundhouse, Springfield Allotments Mondays 5-7pm Ages 8-12 Tuesdays 5.30-7.30pm Ages 13-19 Wednesdays 11am-3pm Ages 18+

(at The Park)

Juniors Thursdays 3.45-5.15pm 8-11 years old (Years 4-6) Inters Fridays 6-8pm 11-14 years old (Years 7-9) Seniors Wednesdays 6-8pm 13-19 years old (Years 9-13)

(at local schools)

Bedminster Down School Wednesdays after school Years 7-9

Youth Opinions

Youth Voice

The Park, Knowle West Tuesdays, 5.30-7.30pm, Sports Hall

For more information visit

FREE activities for young people in South Bristol Youth Clubs

Youth Clubs

Music Studio

Urban Escape

The Park, Knowle West

Bridge Learning Campus Mondays during term time after school Years 6-9

The Park, Knowle West Tuesdays & Wednesdays 2-8pm

Roundhouse, Springfield Allotments Mondays 5-7pm Ages 8-12 Tuesdays 5.30-7.30pm Ages 13-19 Wednesdays 11am-3pm Ages 18+

(at The Park)

(at local schools)

Juniors Thursdays 3.45-5.15pm 8-11 years old (Years 4-6) Inters Fridays 6-8pm 11-14 years old (Years 7-9) Seniors Wednesdays 6-8pm 13-19 years old (Years 9-13)

Bedminster Down School Wednesdays after school Years 7-9

For more information visit

Youth Opinions

Youth Voice

The Park, Knowle West Tuesdays, 5.30-7.30pm, Sports Hall

youthmoves.org.uk Advertorial

youthmoves.org.uk

Starting journeys, inspiring lives Contact us % 0117 903 9796 info@youthmoves.org.uk youthmoves123 Youth Moves @infoyouthmoves Urban Escape Bristol For more information visit

youthmoves.org.uk

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY EVENTS

Mede Sprint Trips

Visit www.theinnscourtcommunity andfamilycentre.com or call Lisa on 0117 904 8218.

South Bristol Jobs and Apprenticeships Fair

Thurs 28 Feb, 11am-3pm, South Bristol Skills Academy, Hengrove.

International Women’s Day Wed 6 March, 10-3pm at Filwood Community Centre.

Inns Court Residents Association (ICRA)

Second Mondays, 12 noon, Inns Court Community and Family Centre.

Melvin Square Neighbourhood Group

Third Mondays 12 noon - 1pm at Filwood Community Centre.

Living, Working, Making Together – Making Special

Thurs 4 April, 6.30-9.30pm Start at Knowle West Media Centre and end at Filwood Community Centre. Free to local residents / 18+

Small Animal Handling Workshop

Wed 10 April, 10am – midday, The Park Centre, Daventry Road. Ages 10-16. Booking essential.

Easter Event

Tues 16 April at Springfield Community Allotment. Includes treasure hunt, freshly made pizza and children’s activities. For more info www.kwha1.wordpress.com

Bristol Walk Fest

Events throughout May. Visit www.bristolwalkfest.com

Bristol Noise

Sat 4 - Mon 6 May, Knowle West. Volunteering projects followed by Fun Day. www.thenoise.org.uk

ParkFest

Sat 27 April, 2-5pm at The Park Centre, Daventry Road. Free family festival with food, music, performance, stalls, kids’ fun and a bar. All welcome.

Food and Fitness Event Tues 7 May, 10am to 2pm at Filwood Community Centre.

ADULTS

Learn Something New Free local courses for ages 19 plus. Visit www.communi tylearningwest.net or call Lucy Fieldhouse, 0117 903 9763/0778 835 3446. Facebook - The Learning Community Team.

Dementia Gardening Group

Bristol Community Links. Every other Friday. Next dates 8 and 22 March, 11am-midday. For more info, call Abi on 0741 0379 704. Email abi@aliveactivities.org

ISSUE 84 (May to August). Copy deadline Thur 25 Apr. Delivered to your door from Mon 27 May.

Wellbeing Sessions

Wed 1-3pm at Filwood Community Centre with ACE service. No need to book. For info and support call the ACE helpline on 0117 239 8969.

Our Time

Tues 9.30-11.30am, Filwood Community Centre (Kinvara Room.) Positive support for women, with crèche. Call first: 0742 372 7887.

Free Counselling

All dates are subject to change – keep an eye on the Knowledge website for definite dates.

Centre Facebook for full list of groups.

Breathing Space

Mon 1-2.30pm at Inns Court Community and Family Centre. Time out for parents. Crèche available. Term-time only. Call Jen from ACE on 0783 417 7485.

Toy Library Sessions

Fri 2-4pm at Oasis Academy, Marksbury Road. Visit www.south bristoltoylibrary.co.uk

Filwood Library

Term time only. Baby Bounce and Rhyme Wed 11.30am. Pre-school Story Times and Craft Fri 11.45-12.15pm.

Visit www.lifecycleuk.org.uk/ wellbeing.

Mon - Thurs, one-hour sessions by appointment at Knowle West Health Association, 49b Filwood Broadway. Contact Tricia Horne, 07340 079316 or email counsel lingcoordinator@knowlewes thealthassoc.org.uk

Bristol Credit Union

Coffee Mornings

Free Debt Advice

Wed 10am–midday, Inns Court Community and Family Centre. Run by Rising High. Call Craig on 0798 533 1110. Email infinity1200@hotmail. com.

Art Group

Thurs at St Barnabas Church, 10am-11.30.

Inclusive Youth Group

Free Wellbeing Cycle Rides

Fri 10-11am at re:work,16 Filwood Broadway.

Mon 11am-12pm. Drop-in at The Park, Daventry Road. Or call 0800 138 3422, email debtadvice@bristolcab.org. uk

Volunteer Group

Tues 11am-3pm for over 18s at the Roundhouse, Springfield Allotments. Learn about gardening, cooking and bush craft. Call 0117 903 9796 or email ben.carpen ter@youthmoves.org.uk

Open Allotment Sessions

Tues 11am-1.30pm, Springfield Allotments. Buy produce, garden or relax. Drop in, or out of these hours call Knowle West Health Association on 07940 954 568.

Tea, Chat and Stories Fri, 11.30am-1pm at Filwood Library. Free drop-in. Contact samanthaweaver@ thereader.org.uk or call 07812 238 532.

Filwood Chase History Society

Tues and Wed 1-4.30 pm at The Park, Daventry Road. Contact Ivor Grimsted on 0785 676 9285 or email filwoodchase@gmail.com

Last Sat of the month at Filwood Library,10am.

My Wild Child

Wed10-11.30am. Starts 27 Feb (term time only), Northern Slopes (meet Bommie entrance,105 Wedmore Vale). Outdoor activities for under 5s. Visit avonwildlifetrust. org.uk/mywildchild Thurs 10.30am-12.30pm, Filwood Community Centre (in the Gallery). Parents with toddlers aged 3-5yrs. CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

Tues 1-3pm and Fri 10ammidday at 4 Filwood Broadway.

Every other Thurs, 7-9.30pm, Filwood Community Centre. For 13-18s. Next date 7 March. Call Matt on 07795 446317, matt.peall@wecil.co.uk

Green Gym

Free Cricket Sessions

Sewing Groups

Thurs 10.15am on the Northern Slopes - meet next to 105 Wedmore Vale. Just turn up.

Knit and Natter

Wed 1-3pm, Filwood Library. Just turn up.

Filwood Community Centre

has regular groups running. www.filwoodcentre.org.uk FAMILIES

Parenting Groups

Ilminster Avenue Specialist Nursery School and Children’s Centre has lots of groups running. “Like” them on Facebook to see timetables. Visit Knowle West Children’s

Tues 4.30–6.pm at The Park, Daventry Road. For girls and boys aged 8-11. Call Crispin Shingler on 07398 211 596, email crispin. shingler@glosccc.co.uk

Filwood Community Centre

has regular groups including martial arts, boxing, dance and drama. Visit www.filwoodcentre.org.uk

Girlguiding Groups

Tues 5.45pm at Connaught Oasis Community Hub. For Rainbows contact connaught.rain bows@ outlook.com or for Brownies, 1stconnaughtbrownies@gmail.com

Scouting Groups

Wed 5.15 - 6.15pm – Beavers, Cubs – 6.30 - 8pm. Thurs 7-8.45pm – Scouts All at Filwood Community Centre. Call: 0737 825 7936.