Long Ashton and Failand Voice September 2023

New phase of King Charles III England Coast Path

The latest stretch of the King Charles III England Coast Path, extending from Aust to Clevedon, opened earlier this summer.

THE new path stretches from Old Passage near Aust, just

south of the Old Severn Bridge in South Gloucestershire, through to Wain’s Hill, Clevedon, in North Somerset. It is the second phase of the path between Aust and Brean Down. The first stage between Sand Bay near Weston-super-

Mare and Brean Down Fort in Somerset opened in June 2022. The remaining phases aim to be completed by the end of 2024, enabling a continuous walking route to the Somerset coastline and beyond.

Cont on page 3 >

Path between Portishead & Clevedon

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Dr Liam Fox

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ...

Email: liam.fox.mp@parliament.uk

Twitter: @LiamFox

My MP? Karin Smyth MP

Facebook: Dr Liam Fox MP

May 2022

Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk

Hi there all,

Autumn will soon be upon us but looking back over summer, I think we have had a jam-packed couple of months: balloons, fairs, festivals, markets, open days and much more – with some sunshine thrown in, too!

This month we have got lots of information about local schools for you all to browse, helping make those choices for the younger members of the family, lots more local news, plus events happening soon.

So have a good read and get in touch if you have something you would like to share with us!

Enjoy the last days of summer!

By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk

By post:

By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

The Rt Hon Dr Liam Fox MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA

Constituency office: 71 High Street, Nailsea, BS48 1AW

By phone: 0117 953 3575

Christine Townsend Green, Southville By phone: 07584183843 By email: Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. gov.uk

Ruth

My Councillor

In person: Call the above number for an appointment

Post: (all councillors)

My councillor?

Christopher Davies Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr. Christopher.Davies@bristol.gov.uk

c/o Town Hall, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1UJ

Phone: 07826917714

Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR.

Tessa Fitzjohn Green, Bedminster

Cllr Stuart McQuillan – Long Ashton

T: 07866 512 391

Gary Hopkins Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk

E: stuart.mcquillan@n-somerset.gov.uk

By phone: 07584182801 By email: Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk

Phone: 07977 512159

Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill

Cllr Ashley Cartman – Long Ashton

T: 07904 188 187

Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk

Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk

Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill

E: ashley.cartman@n-somerset.gov.uk

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Cllr Bridget Petty – Backwell

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E: bridget.petty@n-somerset.gov.uk

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SALES & LETTINGS

All stories and pictures are ©Long Ashton & Failand Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission. South Bristol Media

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longashton&failandvoice We Sell and Let Property Like Yours Tel:01179634373 Email:Southville@cjhole.co.uk Web:cjhole.co.uk www.longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk September 2023 Issue 6 FREE EVERY MONTH IN LONG ASHTON & FAILAND AREA Extra police patrols following incident Page 13 Footy boots for all Page 4 Local history Page Connected for Warmth launchesfund Page Pharmacist awarded honorary degree Page 12 Bowls team wins the‘Shield’ Page 17 The latest stretch the KingCharlesIIIEngland CoastPath,extendingfrom AusttoClevedon,opened earlier this summer. THEnewpathstretchesfrom OldPassagenearAust,just southoftheOldSevernBridge inSouthGloucestershire, throughtoWain’sHill, Clevedon,inNorthSomerset. Itisthesecondphaseofthe pathbetweenAustandBrean Down.Thefirststagebetween SandBaynearWeston-superMare and Brean Down Fort SomersetopenedinJune2022. Theremainingphasesaimtobe completedbytheendof2024 enabling continuouswalking route to the Somerset coastline andbeyond. New phase of King Charles III England Coast Path is open Contonpage Path between Portishead Clevedon The publisher welcomes contributions from readers. Such submissions are subject to being edited, distributed and displayed in any media or medium, or any form, format or forum now known or hereafter developed, for any purpose, in perpetuity. Hello & welcome... Ian THE BRISTOL SOUTH SPACE PROGRAM

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New phase of King Charles III England Coast Path is open

From page 1 >

This is the first section of path to open in South Gloucestershire and Bristol and the second section in North Somerset. Of note:

• 23 miles of these lengths of King Charles III England Coast Path add to the 12 miles already open in this stretch

• Route highlights include excellent views of the Severn Estuary and the crossings to Wales contrasting with the industrial landscape near the Port of Bristol and the tranquil and rocky coastline between Portishead and Clevedon

The path also forms part of the next section of the North Somerset Tidal Trail which will

eventually follow the length of North Somerset’s coastline.

This is the latest section of the 2,700-mile King Charles III England Coast Path to be opened by Natural England. The new 23-mile-long path stretches from just north of Severn Beach through to Clevedon, one of the original British seaside resorts with its famous Victorian Pier. The trail is mostly along existing rights of way with new additional access rights along the seawall at Portbury in North Somerset.

Natural England has worked in collaboration with South Gloucestershire Council, Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, the Environment Agency, local landowners and many other local partners to make the route available and accessible to the public.

Local and visitor highlights of the stretch include:

• Portbury Wharf Nature Reserve on the edge of the Severn Estuary between Portishead and Royal Portbury Dock, which consists of wetlands and saltmarsh. Skylarks and waders are often visible from the bird hides, while otters can be seen in the rhynes.

• Clevedon Pier, one of the earliest surviving examples of a Victorian pier.

• The Prince of Wales Bridge.

• The Old Aust Ferry Slipway.

• Wildfowl and waders on the estuary during the autumn and winter, including redshank, dunlin and black-tailed godwit.

• Wheelchair accessible paths at Severn Beach, Portishead and Clevedon promenades.

Rachel Williams, area manager for Wessex at Natural England, said: “We know that just two hours of contact with nature a week can significantly boost our health and wellbeing. This path is a welcome addition for South Gloucestershire, the Avonmouth area of Bristol [and] North Somerset and will provide both the local community and visitors and tourists from further afield more opportunities to access the coast and connect with nature.”

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, said: “[This is] an important step forward in the opening up of our beautiful coastline for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

“I’m delighted to see the official opening of this section from Aust to Wain’s Hill in Clevedon, an Iron Age hill fort dating back to the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age.

“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank council officers, local authority partners and Natural England for continuing to work together to create the King Charles III England Coast Path, such an important project which continues to create exciting opportunities for tourism and our economy.”

When complete, the King Charles III England Coast Path will be the longest continuous coastal path in the world. This National Trail will encompass the entire English coast, passing through some of the most stunning, dynamic and internationally recognised scenery.

The King Charles III England Coast Path will provide more people with the opportunity to experience the natural environment – which is part of the government’s ambition to connect people with nature outlined in the 25-year Environment Plan.

ECP Old Passage, Aust to Wain’s Hill in Clevedon overview

Coastal margin looking north towards the Prince of Wales bridge

Footy boots for disadvantaged children

BOOTS for Youth 2.0 is well underway and has been running throughout the summer holidays. First launched in 2021 by Neighbourhood Constable Ryan Day, the scheme aims to provide football boots for disadvantaged children in Bristol who might otherwise miss out due to their prohibitive cost.

Hundreds of pairs were donated during the successful launch campaign two years ago called Caring for the Community: Football Boots Initiative.

PC Day said: “Football boots can often run to around £100 a pair which is simply unaffordable for many families amid the current cost-of-living crisis. Kids’ feet grow so quickly that a pair of boots are often outgrown before they’ve reached the end of their useful life.

“This scheme is about giving another young person the opportunity to make use of them.

“I hope that the relaunch of the Boots for Youth Scheme will mean fewer boots thrown out and more young people able to take part in sports where they otherwise might have had to sit out. I

think it’s a really simple way for families with unwanted boots to give back to the community and improve the lives of others.”

The scheme was initially launched following the COVID-19 pandemic, after many children outgrew boots which had barely been used during the lockdown. It was a huge success, with more than 400 pairs donated to families in need. This time around, to maximise the life of the boots, the donations will be provided to a selection of local schools so that each has a pool of boots available to borrow for the new school year. Any donated boots need to be weatherproof, in good condition and in sizes 4–11.

If you have any old or unused football boots, you can drop them at Nailsea Police Station, Pound Lane, BS48 2NN. If clubs or individuals have a large number of boots to donate, please contact Neighbourhood Constable Ryan Day at:

Ryan.Day@avonandsomerset. police.uk

n LOCAL HISTORY

Memorial benches – an appreciation

Words by David Milne

THIS week marked the completion of my exhaustive 23-year study of memorial benches of Long Ashton and the surrounding area. Rather than a rousing hurrah, the news that the research had finally been completed was met with a nod and a quiet reflective moment of contemplation. It was way back in the year 2000 when I set out into the field to complete the first study of its kind, a thorough and complete examination of the muchloved memorial benches which adorn our surroundings.

You may well enquire, dear reader, just what is the draw of these little shrines? Well, firstly, design: be it ornate or simple, they are by and large unique. They offer a place of rest, a chance to sit and watch the world go by, to ruminate or contemplate. Often an inscription on a plaque will reveal tantalising little titbits of a life now ceased. Some just with dates, sometimes tragic in their brevity; others celebrating a life long-lived; and some inscribed with “….who loved this place” or a few words reflecting the love those left behind felt for the now departed.

Now should you ever decide to visit the popular Cornish town of Padstow, you will be met with a vast swathe of seats stretching from one end of the open space to the other which leads to the coastal path. Any true lover of a good tribute seat will obviously know that less is very much more. One might imagine a true bench buff might just stand aghast at this sight and with a “tut-tut” muttered in the whispering and unsettling way that Richard Attenborough did in the film 10 Rillington Place as Reg Christie and say, “No, no, this just won’t do.” Thankfully, the verdant countryside surrounding Long Ashton has near perfect distribution of bench-to-area ratio – not too many and not too few. Roughly one bench per square mile is believed to be the optimum – the largest concentration being in Ashton Court with a few notable examples dotted around the village and its surrounds. The results of this study have singled out three of the finest examples of tribute pews for your appreciation and pleasure.

The first is to be found in the south-eastern corner of the village. Take a stroll down Glebe Road to Yanley Lane where you will find one of the loveliest cricket grounds in the area. In front of the scorebox you will see the solidly constructed three-seater bench. It can be said that this seat of rest has almost mystical properties. It has been known on occasions when a cricket match is taking place (and perhaps drink has been taken) that those perched there are blessed with cricketing superpowers, imparting their expert knowledge of the game to anyone who will care to listen. No match has ever been lost when seated on this bench. Should you then decide to up from your seat, cross the boundary rope, you

immediately realise these other worldly powers have deserted you and you are a cricketing mortal once more.

If walking is your thing, then you can continue on from the cricket ground via the cycle path to Ashton Court. You’ll need to hike up the hill to the plateau and the far northwest corner of the estate. Secluded and ringed with hedgerow you will discover the idyll that is Justin’s Meadow.

On a sunny summer’s day you are almost transported back to the front cover of Judy Collins’ 1967 folk masterpiece Wildflowers. The meadow is home to an array of fauna, insects and fungi. The bench is nestled slightly off-centre from either entrance to the meadow. There it sits ready to welcome its next guest. It is ornately crafted from a tree trunk by wild wood carving expert Andy O’Neill.

Sitting there amidst the vibrant array of plants, trees, flowers and insects it is a moment to treasure and reflect. The bench sits neatly next to its companion, a large Scots Pine, and blends perfectly into its surroundings and

is a glorious tribute to the man who gave his name to the meadow. You can just about hear the traffic murmuring away in the distance but otherwise you can sit looking out on the landscape in quiet contemplation.

To make the visit to our last memorial, we’ll need to make tracks back towards the village before it gets dark and hopefully in time for the sunset. Make your way to Longwood Lane, down Providence Lane all the way to the centre of the village, past the shops. Make a left into Lampton Road, then first right into Paulman Gardens. As you exit, take a left across the railway bridge and then straight ahead along the Village Circular Walk and along the narrow track that takes you to Toboggan Hill. It’s another steep hill but it is the last one, I promise, and it is well worth all the huffing and puffing.

The path will take you diagonally across and up the field but before you exit through the gate at the top, you will need to look to your right. Hidden away to all but those who know is a little treasure. The grass is long but there is enough who know about the bench to have worn a path. There you will see understated and most definitely a modest example nuzzled up next to the hedge. Two vertical wooden legs and a functional horizontal beam. Just two initials and a set of dates are the only inscription.

Once you have nestled down here you are greeted with a glorious panoramic view of the village. Time it just right and you’ll be able to see the sun sinking its way behind the woods at the top of Belmont Hill away in the distance. You might occasionally meet another walker and their dog but otherwise this little place of wonder is all yours for free.

David Milne 07732 488816 milnedavidmurray@gmail.com

Justin’s Bench in Ashton Court – beautifully carved by Andy O’Neill

In search of benches...

Thank you for making me a proud ‘Bemmy’ pharmacist ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams

TEN years ago this month I took over as the lead pharmacist at Bedminster Pharmacy. Firstly, I must apologise – in all this time, we have failed to match the generosity, friendship and trust invested in me and our small team by our community. We have tried, but every day, we are floored by the ways this wonderful community surprises us. Thank you, everyone; you have made each day fulfilling and rewarding with your kindness and, of course, constant digs at me. Your humour is priceless.

Back in 2013, I was sporting my afro, ok maybe not even that, but I really thought I knew how to serve the mission of the NHS in our BS3 community. I have since been educated and continue to learn – the NHS is the community it cares for, a partnership, never a dependency.

Our now over 30 national awards

on the unprecedented journey of becoming the UK’s most decorated pharmacy team, the stories of our community, those partnerships and social action, trying to create a healthier community get told over and over. Thank you for making room for us in your hearts and life.

As I reflect, from wearing my purple female wig (Pancreatic Cancer campaign) to putting a toilet bowl in Wilko (Bowel Cancer Campaign) and doing blood pressure case finding checks in the pub, I have lived the ‘Bemmy Pharmacy Life’ to the envy of my colleagues and peers. Three lessons that have profoundly impacted all of us in Bedminster Pharmacy are:

1. Embracing shared humanity instils a sense of vulnerability and empathy. We cry and laugh and get really frustrated for – but also fight hard

for – our patients and community. We always bring our hearts to work at a risk, but thanks to your continual generous friendships, we never fall.

2. To stop people ‘falling’, at some point, you either fix the broken bridge, build a new bridge or find a safer route. Everyone wants to live life in the fullness of health and wellness. Going out from our pharmacy and partnering with our community in various social action projects has helped us understand why people fall and how to help stop this.

3. Be a relentless force for good. Community pharmacy is the most accessible part of the NHS. My pain at losing local pharmacies is the loss of colleagues to share the responsibility of picking up symptoms for earlier cancer diagnosis, undetected high blood pressure, supporting isolation and loneliness, campaigning for

the abolition of NHS prescription charges and enshrining dignity in all healthcare interactions.

We have not succeeded in changing things yet. Still, the NHS is using our work to inform evidence for direct referrals for cancer investigations from community pharmacies, and Lancet, the International Health Journal in its 200-year celebratory programme, showcased our ‘Pulse in the Pub’ as its only UK example of innovation that delivers Universal Health Coverage gives hope.

Sadly, our journey over the last 10 years also finds the NHS struggling, but please be assured we will never fail you. Thank you for all the ways you support us as we care for you. I will forever be proud to be a Bemmy pharmacist and grateful you accepted our team as part of this community. No ifs, no buts.

CHSW Moonlight Memory Walk

CHILDREN’S Hospice South West (CHSW)’s Moonlight Memory Walk will take place at Salthouse Fields, Clevedon, on Saturday 7 October.

The Moonlight Memory Walk, a brand-new event, will give people the opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones while walking a beautiful scenic route in Clevedon. You will be encouraged to walk together with friends and family to remember those who are no longer with us. Lights will guide the way and there will be live music along the trail with spaces to pause and remember.

Hollie Thorogood, events fundraiser for CHSW, said: “We are delighted to work with Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust on our first Moonlight Memory Walk and incorporate the beautiful Pier into the route. Opened in 1869, the Pier is an iconic landmark in Clevedon and the only Grade 1 Listed pier in England. Decorated with dedication plaques all along the pier, and with the sea being a calming place full of reflection, we know that this will be a meaningful enhancement to the event for everyone taking part.

“Walkers are encouraged to raise sponsorship for CHSW in memory of their loved ones, helping to raise funds to ensure children and young people from across Bristol and the South West can access the care and support offered by Charlton Farm’s

n COUNCILLOR NEWS

ALTHOUGH summer can seem a quiet time for many, the work of North Somerset Council continues. Many of you will have noticed that there are a lot of road works near us now. These include work in Leigh Woods, the temporary night closure of the road through Wraxall, and work on the Barrow Gurney A38 junction. I am also hearing that there may be a temporary closure of Beggar Bush Lane.

Fortunately, most of these will be coming to an end soon and things can get back to normal. As ever, I am liaising with the council to ensure that these works are done as efficiently as possible with as little disruption to residents.

Police seek witnesses to M5 collision

DID you witness a collision involving a BMW on the M5? One person was taken to hospital after the singlevehicle collision on Tuesday 15 August.

The police were called at around 11.15am after reports of a white BMW saloon colliding with the central reservation on the northbound carriageway between junctions 18A (Avonmouth/M49) and 17 (Cribbs Causeway).

children’s hospice, located in Wraxall near Bristol. It is a very poignant event and this incredible location is going to make the evening all the more special, so please take advantage of the early-bird tickets.”

To get your ticket and for event timings, simply visit www.chsw.org.uk/moonlight or call 01275 866600.

The driver, a man in his 50s, was taken to hospital by paramedics and his family was informed. If you witnessed this or have dashcam footage, please call 101 and quote reference number 5223196913, or contact the police via its website.

On a more positive note, it’s good to see the introduction of a scheme where you can get travel for free on local buses for the month of your birthday. I have lobbied hard over the past 12-18 months to get our bus restated and more reliable; it would be great to see more people using them. To apply for your free month pass, please visit www.birthdaybus. co.uk (and see the news story on p10).

Finally, I am undertaking a project for North Somerset Council to review how we devolve more power to local parish councils and community groups. I passionately believe that local decisions should be made by local people.

Please get in touch if you have any ideas or views to share.

T: 07904 188 187

E: ashley.cartman@n-somerset.gov.uk

The CHSW Moonlight Memory Walk will take place at Salthouse Fields, Clevedon, on Saturday 7 Oct

Councillor Ashley Cartman Liberal Democrats

£50 million Connected for Warmth programme fund launches

Free loft and cavity wall insulation is now available to North Somerset homes.

NORTH Somerset households can take advantage of a range of low carbon energy-saving measures through the Connected for Warmth programme to support the cost-of-living crisis. Working with the National Grid, North Somerset Council is supporting this initiative to fund free loft and cavity wall insulation for all homes in council tax bands A-D, as well as other energy-saving measures including smart heating controls and low energy light bulbs. Together, these improvements could save households hundreds of pounds a year on their energy bills, as well as reduce carbon emissions.

The funding for the programme comes from National Grid, the

utility company which manages the distribution of energy across the country. It has made £50 million available to initiatives which support households through the cost-of-living crisis.

Councillor Jenna Ho Marris, executive member for homes and health, said: “Whether you’re a homeowner or a private tenant, if you’re worried about your energy bills, please get in touch. The Connected for Warmth programme will deliver a range of measures which will help your

A buzzing & fun affair

By Liz Garfitt, Failand Hall committee member

energy bills stay low all year round.”

Councillor Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council’s executive member for climate, waste and sustainability, said: “We’re committed to tackling the climate emergency and creating a thriving and sustainable North Somerset. Connected for Warmth is an excellent opportunity for local residents to access fully-funded home insulation as well as other free energy saving measures to improve energy efficiency, which is a vital step in our journey to becoming net zero by 2030.”

To apply, please visit www. evolvehes.co.uk/connectedfor-warmth or call freephone 0800 107 8576. The funding is limited, so apply as soon as possible. Landlords can also apply to the programme on behalf of their private tenants.

Physiotherapy is often seen as something that can only be accessed if people can make it to the clinic. However, most physiotherapy services can easily carried out in a person’s home and can be of great help to those with mobility problems or long-term conditions. Studies have shown time again the importance of active ageing and the positive role that home visits can have on quality of life.

Home visits allow the physiotherapist to evaluate possible problems in the living environment of older adults, assess their physical and mental health status, provide professional support, and refer them to specialist care if needed. This can reduce the risk of functional deterioration and associated problems. We offer a home visit physiotherapy service which can be especially helpful if people are having difficulty with their day-to-day activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of bed. Whether you are suffering from balance problems, have had falls or a recent operation we can help improve strength, balance, mobility and confidence around the home and outdoors.

Go ahead and book your appointment at Bristol Physio today

Contact info@bristolphysio.com for more details.

Quote Failand10 for your 10% discount today.

FAILAND residents

gathered together in July for the inaugural monthly get-together at the Failand Village Hall. The bar was buzzing and the evening was a fun affair, well attended by friends, families and neighbours from the village. The bar will be open again at the Failand Village Hall on Friday 25th August, 17.30-19.30pm.

If you can’t make it in August, the bar will be open the last Friday of each month for the remainder of the year. Plenty of dates for your diary.

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Post natal checks

Return to exercise

Joint muscle and nerve pain

Sports injuries

Chronic pain

Paediatric problems

Vestibular rehab

Got a niggle?

Get it checked out before it gets worse.

Had pain for a long time?

We can help with that too.

Stress/Urge incontinence – don’t suffer in silence

Worried about your little one – get help fast

Can’t get out? We do home visits

We have a great team of experienced specialists to help with all your pain and injury needs

Quote Failand10 for your 10% discount today

Police degree apprenticeship ranked in Top 100

THE Department for Education has ranked Avon and Somerset Police’s Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) 75th in the Department of Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Providers list, in recognition of the outstanding commitment provided to students who sign up to a challenging new career. The force was one of only five other police services to be recognised in the list.

The PCDA programme was introduced as a new route in to policing in 2019, with Avon and Somerset Police one of the first police services to roll out the new apprenticeship, partnered with the University of the West of England (UWE).

Those enrolled onto the course are employed by the police force from day one, spending 80% of their time receiving practical on-the-job training from experienced officers alongside academic support and

classroom-based learning from UWE.

The new route into policing was funded by the government’s Police Uplift Programme which

committed police forces to recruit a further 20,000 officers into policing by March 2023.

So far, Avon and Somerset Police has welcomed over 820

new students onto the threeyear apprenticeship journey since 2019, with 211 already celebrating their graduation and beginning their new career.

Louise Hutchison, chief officer people and organisational development at Avon and Somerset Police, said: “We’re proud to have been recognised for our achievements with our PCDA programme, working in partnership with UWE. This listing is also recognition of the hard work our apprentices put in throughout their apprenticeship, to be the difference and serve their communities with pride.” Avon and Somerset Police is currently recruiting and accepting applications for the PCDA Programme. To find out more, go to:

www.avonandsomerset. police.uk/apply/jobs-andvolunteering/police-officer/ police-constable-degreeapprenticeship/

Chief constable Sarah Crew and Police and crime commissioner Mark Shelford congratulate new officers at their PCDA graduation ceremony

Birthday Buses scheme launches

Launched this August, residents in the West of England can now enjoy a month of free bus travel.

PART of a scheme designed to grow passenger numbers, you can now travel on buses across the West’s 350-plus square mile network in the month of your birthday for free and make as many journeys as you like at any time of the day.

To enjoy free travel for your birthday month, apply as soon as possible and at least 7 days before the first day of your birthday month. You can still apply in your birthday month, right up to the 15th, and get a pass for the rest of that month.

To create your birthday bus pass, you will need the following to hand before starting your application:

• Passport-style photo

• Proof of age, if you are under 18, or applying for your child

• A clear picture of your passport or birth certificate or, if you’re over 16, a picture of your driving licence (full or provisional). A letter from an authorised professional who has known you more than two years will also be

accepted. This will need to confirm your name, address and age.

For further information about the offer and application process, go to: www.birthdaybus.co.uk/faqs

North Somerset Council is hoping residents will feel inspired to travel across the West of England and share pictures of where free bus

travel can take you using #BirthdayBus.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris says Birthday Buses will help locals in the cost-of-living crisis and get more people using buses to help take polluting diesel and petrol cars off our streets.

All the main bus companies, including First and Stagecoach, have signed up to this initiative, as well as the region’s WESTlink bookable minibuses.

It is hoped new passengers will take advantage of the month’s free travel and that, over the course of the month, build new routines. Data collected during the year will help build a better understanding of how the scheme affected passenger growth and the wider demand for public transport.

Cllr Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, said: “The Birthday Buses offer represents an opportunity for our residents to choose a free alternative to the car and make the most of our transport system… Investment in public transport to make it accessible for all is a key part of our commitment to building a greener future. Thanks to funding from the Department for Transport, we will ensure bus services become faster, greener and more coordinated than ever before.”

n ADVERTORIAL

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The traditional autumnal colour palette brings to mind warm yellows and golds, rich oranges, deep berry reds, purples and pinks, and dark earthy hues of the natural world. These rich colours, when used in combination with greenery, wood, and other natural materials, such as cotton and jute, provide us with a connection to nature and remind us of the positivity and joy that connection can bring.

Are you drawn to the autumnal colour palette?

Colour psychology shows us that colour has mood transformative properties and different colours affect human behaviour and our emotional responses. The undertone of any given colour will influence our response to it, with cooler tones providing a calm and tranquil feel and warmer tones a cosy, enveloping atmosphere.

The autumnal personality is often described as strong, fiery and vibrant, but the colour palette can be interpreted in a number of ways to suit each individual taste. Pastel autumn tones will produce a softer, lighter feel, dark rich tones provide a deeper, almost cocoon-like autumnal environment, and jewel tones will bring vibrancy and opulence.

**September hot tip:**

The new Harlequin wallpaper and fabric collection by Sophie Robinson has just landed. It is full of Autumnal colours, patterns and texture.

Travel for free during your birthday month

K Interiors is an experienced interior design studio offering bespoke interior design, furniture and soft furnishings service across Bristol and the south-west.

Whether you are looking to update one room or are embarking on a full house renovation or re-design, we are able to offer our colour-focused expertise

700 allotments rejected

By: John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build allotments on the edge of Abbots Leigh have been voted down. Roots Allotments co-founder Christian Samuel said he was “very disappointed” in the decision by North Somerset Council to reject their application for a certificate of lawful development. He argued they should be able to get the certificate — which avoids the need to seek full planning permission — because the land was simply changing from one type of agriculture to another.

The council sent the plans back to Roots when they came before the planning committee in July to ask for more information about other activities on the site. When the plans came back before the planning committee on 16 August, they were rejected over a technicality about the matting used for the planned 80-space car park at the allotment site.

Planning committee member and Long Ashton councillor Stuart McQuillan said: “I have consistently said there is some merit in this application but full planning application

is required to assess and address issues such as highways safety and ecology. I therefore welcome the unanimous decision by the planning committee to refuse the request for a certificate of lawful development.”

Local councillor Jenna Ho Marris said: “I’m relieved this application was refused unanimously by the planning committee. They’ve set an example for other councils to look to. Of course, we support more people growing their own fruit and veg, but like any change of land use, it needs to go through proper planning permission.”

Mr Samuel said that Roots would apply again, this time without the planned car parking. (68% of the people who had signed up for plots were not planning to drive to the site.)

Free spam call blockers available

FED UP with scam callers or worried about a relative being conned?

A new initiative to help protect people falling prey to phone scammers is being rolled out by the National Trading Standards (NTS) Scams Team in partnership with trueCall Secure+. Its aim is to prevent the public, especially vulnerable individuals, from receiving phone calls from fraudsters who are looking to obtain personal or financial information.

A limited supply of free call blockers is available and you can apply on behalf of someone else with their consent or for yourself. The unit filters out unwanted scams and nuisance phone calls from a landline phone (it does not work with mobiles). The unit plugs into

an existing landline phone and phone line, and can work alongside broadband and lifeline pendant devices that are already installed. In previous call block projects run by the NTS Scams Team, the units have blocked 91% of scam and nuisance calls. You can find out more and check your eligibility for a free call blocker via the questionnaire at www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/cbvideo

PCC Mark Shelford said: “Heartless fraudsters have no qualms targeting those most vulnerable in our communities, so it is more important than ever that we take steps to help protect people. If you or a loved one is interested in a free call blocker, please do visit the Friends Against Scams website to find out more.”

Local pharmacist awarded honorary degree

UWE Bristol awards local Bristol pharmacist Ade Williams with honorary degree.

ADE Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy was among the recipients of honorary degrees presented during UWE Bristol’s summer graduation ceremonies at Bristol Cathedral. The Honorary Graduate was conferred on 28 July.

Ade Williams MBE – Doctor of Science

Ade is the Superintendent Pharmacist of the multi-award-winning Bedminster Pharmacy in South Bristol. He also leads the Bristol Travel Clinic. Awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to the NHS and previously the 2019 NHS Parliamentary Award for Excellence in Primary Care, he is a Fellow of both the Royal Society of Arts and the Royal Society for Public Health. Alongside being a Royal Pharmaceutical Society Fellow, he is the profession’s Patient Champion. His enthusiastic input to finding pragmatic, scalable solutions for complex health and policy matters, alongside a passion for engaging and empowering patients, makes him part of many national and crossprofessional working groups and campaigns. He is a trustee and board member of the Self

Volunteers provide vital maths and English support

Care Forum Charity and an NHS Vaccine Hero – promoting broader access and increased vaccination uptake, especially in South Bristol. He is a regular voice and face on BBC Radio Bristol and across our TV channels. He is involved in supporting a wide range of local organisations and initiatives, including as chair of both the Bedminster Lantern Parade and the Bedminster Business Improvement District (BID).

Can you help for one hour a week?

He was also helpful in setting up the Irish Domestic Violence Community Pharmacy Initiative – Safe Pharmacy.

Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, Mrs Peaches Golding OBE CStJ commenting on the award, said: ‘‘A tremendous recognition for the excellent work and contributions to humanity done by Ade. We thank him for years of dedication, service, inspiration, kindness and more.’’

ADVERTISING FEATURE

education charity Action Tutoring works to level the playing field by offering free maths and English tutoring to disadvantaged pupils in Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Are you interested in volunteering, getting more involved in your local community, or doing something a little different with your time?

By volunteering as a tutor for just one hour a week at a local school, or online, you can give vital academic support to pupils whose families couldn’t otherwise afford it.

It’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your time and no previous teaching or tutoring experience is required.

Children from lower-income families are less likely to achieve academically than their better-off peers

Congratulations to local pharmacist Ade Williams on receiving an honorary degree at UWE

Extra patrols following indecent exposure incidents

The police are carrying out extra patrols in Backwell following indecent exposure incidents.

FOLLOWING two reports of indecent exposure in Backwell, the police are carrying out additional patrols.

A woman has told police she was walking around Backwell Lake on Thursday 27 July at about 8.30pm when she encountered a man exposing himself. She called police once she returned home later that night.

She described the man as white, about 5ft 10ins, with brown hair and facial hair, and approximately aged between 25 and 30. He was wearing shorts at the time of the incident and had a black pushbike.

At about 3.20pm on Tuesday 1 August a second similar incident at the lake was reported to the police. Officers attended but the man had left the scene.

Sergeant Lee Kerslake of the Nailsea Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We are carrying out regular high-visibility patrols to try to identify the man responsible and provide reassurance. If anyone has concerns, then please stop those

officers on patrol and they will be happy to help.

“While the woman was not physically harmed by [the] incident, understandably it left her upset and we will make sure she has access to support services.”

A similar incident was reported at lakes in Chelvey, near the River Kenn, on Monday 22 May, where the informant said a man had indecently exposed himself.

Sgt Kerslake continued: “At the moment, it is unclear if this incident is connected to the two in recent days, but we are keeping an open mind given the two sites are not too far apart.

“For that reason we’d urge anyone who has experienced any similar incidents in the past to please make sure they report it to police, so we have a comprehensive understanding as it could significantly help us identify the offender.

“You can report information to the neighbourhood team online or on 101, quoting reference number 5223180704. Alternatively, Crimestoppers will take reports anonymously via https://crimestoppers-uk. org or on 0800 555111.

“If you witness a crime in progress, please call 999.”

Backwell Lake patrols PCSO Harry Mohide and PCSO Kate Turner

n PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Picture This with Nick Church

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHY

AI is a VERY hot topic in photography at the moment. Technology has advanced to a point that you can very quickly and easily create anything you like.

This AI technology comes in two general flavours: enhancing existing images or generating new creations from scratch.

The former is less contentious – here is a shot of a wedding couple I worked with. I can easily replace the sky or background to something that might be more dramatic. This form of AI is simply automating the stuff that has always been possible in Photoshop (image manipulation software). But with AI, it’s a single-click operation.

Late summer garden tips

Local gardener Ben Collison on the joys of September gardening

SEPTEMBER is such a joyful time in the garden. Fingers crossed we have some late September sun – what a delight to sit in your garden as the days start to get shorter and the evenings cooler. There is plenty to be getting on with, too.

I’ve been pickling kilos of cucumbers and making endless tomato sauces and salsas, as well as a variety of different relishes with courgettes and beans. Due to the fluctuating weather this year – I have found fruit crops slightly out of sync – I took an early crop of plums in July, and Bramleys for me are already starting to crop, which has worked well for apple and blackberry crumbles. We had a harsh winter this year and a lot of plants suffered. Taking semi-ripe cuttings of plants which may struggle in the colder months is a great way to ensure you see them next year. Plants which I usually have a good success rate with are salvias, rosemary, thyme, sage, penstemons and pelargoniums, to name a few.

If you haven’t already, now is the time to order your winter and spring bulbs ready to plant. I don’t think you can ever have enough bulbs – seeing the yellows of winter aconites or elegance of snowdrops in deep winter is a wonderful thing.

Take time to plan the garden for next year as well. Note where the gaps in borders are and which plants you can divide or move in the autumn. Share plants and ideas with neighbours and friends. Happy gardening!

Ben Collison, garden designer,

www.collisongardening.co.uk

Want a more exotic location? No problem, replace it.

As a professional photographer, I want to be authentic, and use my skills, the lighting, and composition to create the scene I want. The important thing for the wedding couple above is that they have a picture that they remember from their gorgeous wedding day at Clevedon Hall – they want THAT memory captured. They were never on a beach, so that photo –however clever it might be – has zero value to them.

The second category is a bit cleverer. Recently, Photoshop has released an AI feature where you tell it what you want to see in the photo. For this image, I typed ‘Dog running through a lake in mountains’.

Here’s the interesting thing: this image is not based on any ‘real’ image. It’s simply what the AI technology ‘imagines’ this scene to look like and it generates it from scratch.

Does this mean photographers or cameras will at some point no longer be needed? That’s the concern.

If you have an interest in learning Photoshop, with all the AI tools, then get in touch as I have a course for beginners and another version for professionals.

Contact me at nick@nickchurchphotography.co.uk

phone: 07767 444 878 email: collisongardening@gmail.com or www.collisongardening.co.uk

The original, edited image (spoiler alert, this is my favourite and the only one I would deliver)

Not happy with the sky? No problem, replace it.

• A vibrant, top quality setting - fun for children and adults alike!

• Competitive rates of pay and benefits

• Lots of opportunities for training and career progression!

• Amazing location with great access from Long Ashton, Nailsea, Backwell, the M5 and beyond!

THE Parish Council has been working hard to review and improve our Public Right of Ways (PROWs). It discovered some issues that need to be addressed, and we have developed a plan to do so. Phase 1 is to make sure that everyone knows where the paths are and how to enjoy them safely and responsibly.

This involves updating the waymarking of paths with new discs, with the help of some generous (and hardworking) volunteers, replacing missing or damaged wooden posts/ signs at the junctions of paths and highways with new, more visible signs on metal poles and promoting our paths more widely through local media and events.

Most of the waymarking work is now complete and next we are planning the installation of new signposts. We will work with North Somerset Council to improve access and maintenance. We will continue to monitor and resolve any anomalies or changes that may affect our paths, such as planning applications. This work is being funded from Parish Council reserves.

Public rights of way are marked with signs or coloured arrows. For

example, yellow for footpaths; blue for bridleways. You can find the route of PROWs on Ordnance Survey maps. The Long Ashton village circular walk is 5½ miles (8.8km) which takes you around Long Ashton with extensive views to the west. You can join the round at any point. The walk takes over three hours to complete and is a mix of woods, colourful flora and open fields.

We hope you find this information useful and we welcome your feedback and suggestions –please email: community@ longashtonparishcouncil.gov.uk

We are grateful for your support and cooperation in making our PROWs a valuable asset for our community.

n SPORT

Over-55s bowls team wins the Shield

Words by Chris Holloway

CONGRATULATIONS to the Long Ashton over-55 bowls team who have just won the much-coveted Challenge Shield.

The Shield is a much fought over competition between Yatton and Long Ashton. There is always great rivalry between the two clubs, but for this competition it is even more intense.

The Shield has a somewhat distant history. It was donated by Ted Lang to Long Ashton Bowling Club, but Ted left the club without ever playing for it! He is now a member once again.

It seems that it is called the ‘Challenge’ Shield because Yatton left the Bristol League and were then short of players. So, it was decided that it would be a good idea to call it the Challenge Shield, to be played annually between the two clubs. So far, both Yatton and Long Ashton have won it seven times each!

The competition is scored over two matches – one in the spring and one late summer – and the scores are added together and the winner is the one with the most points. This year, Long Ashton had a great start

by winning the first game by 26 points, a big difference for Yatton to make up. They didn’t! Long Ashton won again on all four rinks by around 10 points

Although it is a serious game, it is always very friendly and this one was no exception. After the game, it is always into the bar for a drink, a presentation and a lot of friendly banter.

(Above) Captains Malcolm Pemble (Long Ashton) & Eric Butt (Yatton) with the shield

n LOCAL SCHOOLS

A musical extravaganza

Northleaze Primary School’s summer concert

ALL Saint’s Church in Long Ashton was filled with the sound of guitars, drums, piano, violins, saxophone and voices back in July as the school held its summer concert to celebrate the wealth of musical talent among its pupils.

Featuring over 40 musicians, including its KS2 choir, the church was packed with parents, grandparents, friends and the local community, all of whom were moved by the children’s solo and group performances.

One parent kindly emailed to say: “The summer concert tonight was jaw-droppingly amazing. It was such a privilege to witness the extraordinary talent within our school. Thank you to everyone who helped put this together; we thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Said the school, “Music holds a special place here at Northleaze School and we are very proud of the confident, polished performances our young people gave. Our large KS2 choir goes from strength to strength and really did bring a tear to the eyes of our audience with their beautiful rendition of the Matilda song, When I Grow Up.”

Do you have any news? Contact us at: editor@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk

And the winner is...

CONGRATULATIONS to Matt Roberts, the lucky winner of The Maid of the Haystack competition we ran in issue 5.

The book tells the story of Louisa who spent four years living in a haystack after walking through Long Ashton. Her behaviour prompted one of the first viral stories ever.

Maid of the Haystack, by Martin J Powell, is published by Bristol Books £14 and is available in book stores, online or signed copies from the publisher’s website: www.bristolbooks.org

Matt – please contact us at editor@longashtonand failandvoice.co.uk to claim your prize as we have been unable to contact you.

Before and Afterschool Wraparound Childcare Playworkers

Northleaze Afterschool Play Club is an independent before and after school club that services Northleaze Primary School, Long Ashton.

We are looking for a suitably qualified, committed and enthusiastic individual to join our amazing team. Hours are negotiable but could be a maximum of 18 hours per week and may include both before and after school sessions and some INSET Days.

We could offer funding and support towards a Playworker/Child Care Qualification. Reduced rates can be negotiated for your child/ren’s places at NAP Club while you support us.

Hourly rates of pay start at £10.42 (unqualified) and £11.52 (qualified)

You would be joining a happy, supportive and welcoming team and an awesome group of children!

As an employer we are committed to safer recruitment and all positions will be subject to a satisfactory enhanced disclosure and barring service check and two appropriate written references.

Please enquire to Kathleen Williams (Play Leader)

t. 07853 088919 e. hellosls74@gmail.com

w. www.northleaze.n-somerset.sch.uk/nap-northleaze-afterschool-play-club-wrap-around-c

Northleaze pupils enjoyed a summer musical extravaganza

Local peace of mind service WILL & PROBATE ADVICE

Time to plan ahead to protect your family

John Baden-Daintree

Death and dementia are upsetting issues to think about, yet you know you need to see a law firm to make sure your legal affairs are properly sorted to protect those you care about.

MANY people are surprised that the law doesn’t always work in the way you would expect, should you become seriously ill or when you die.

● An understanding service, whether your concerns are guardians for young children or protecting against care home fees.

• Depending on your finances and whether you are married, your partner could receive nothing when you die and/or nothing for your children.

● Help you make changes – so everything works in the way that is right for you.

Our local legal experts in this area of law are Simpson Solicitors and they offer our readers:

● A friendly service when you phone to find out about booking a FREE meeting on 01275 857 122

John Baden-Daintree, solicitor, says: “Almost every adult needs an up-to-date Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney, otherwise they may not realise it. Therefore, they will often be leaving a legal mess for their family to sort out.”

EXAMPLES INCLUDE:

● Feel welcome and wanted when you come to see us in our Nailsea office (opposite The Post Office in the Crown Glass Shopping Centre) or in Westbury on Trym High Street.

• Spouse or partner not having the right to insist on you having the treatment or care you would want if you are too ill to speak for yourself.

● Put you at ease as they guide you through your various options for making a Will to provide for those you most care about.

• Your savings being frozen with no easy access even to pay for your care – as Kate Garraway MBE discovered.

● Use of plain English (not legal jargon).

• The inheritance you wanted to leave behind being used up in paying your care home fees, as a couple needs to put protection in both their Wills whilst both still have capacity.

● Help deciding the best options for you in the event you lose the ability to manage without support by setting up our Lasting Powers of Attorney.

● Take as long as you need when having your FREE review meeting.

● Home or Hospital Visit service if getting to the office is difficult - at no extra charge

• The Court (OPG) has issued guidance that everyone over 18 should have powers of attorney in place so someone they trust can make decisions for them. This prevents others taking advantage.

● Clear fixed prices with no hidden costs if you decide to instruct them.

Michelle Baden-Daintree adds, “It is sad when we meet clients who have left it too late to put in place

the protection they really needed in Wills and Powers of Attorney”. Call Simpson Solicitors – our local experts are fully regulated and insured for your peace of mind. They offer our readers a FREE genuine review meeting and 20% off the full price of Powers of Attorney.

● See you to sign your Will and LPAs – to make sure everything is legally valid.

● Provide a complementary aftercare service that leaves you feeling cared for.

To book your free review, pop into our Nailsea office (opposite The Post Office in the Crown Glass Shopping Centre) or in Westbury on Trym High Street, or call 01275 857 122.

It all adds up to a service that leaves clients with peace of mind. They currently have a special offer of 20% off the price of LPAs for our readers.

Michelle Baden-Daintree

Nailsea School celebrates Level 3 results day n

STUDENTS were celebrating at Nailsea School after receiving confirmation of some excellent Level 3 & A Level results this August with many of the key measures outperforming those achieved in 2019, the baseline that exam boards were returning to following the pandemic.

Dee Elliott, headteacher, said: “I am immensely proud of the remarkable success. Students’ hard work, dedication and the exceptional support from teachers and families have truly paid off. The accomplishments of our students today are just the beginning of some very bright futures and I wish all of our alumni well in the next stage of their education, training or employment.”

● Mikey A achieved A*, A*, A*, A and is due to start a Mechanical and Electrical Engineering degree.

● Rebecca Bidwell secured A*, A*, A and will begin a Fine Art degree in Bristol

● Rosie H opened her envelope to see she had received A*, A*, A and will be going to Manchester to study Geography

● Thomas H having gained A*, A, B will also start a Geography degree in Bristol

● Keara H completed her Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care and gained D*, D*, D*

before starting her midwifery course at UWE.

● Caitlyn K will take her A*, A, A as she starts her Law Degree at Bristol

● Eddie R could not have done any better with his three A*s and will start his Aerospace Engineering degree in Bath

David Truan, assistant head/head of sixth form said: “Although, inevitably, today is about academic outcomes, it is important to acknowledge the remarkable progress and

growth of our year 13 students throughout their time at Nailsea – not just in academic but also in vocational, sporting and creative pursuits.

“It has been inspiring to witness their commitment to their chosen fields and the sixth form team is confident that today’s achievements will serve as a strong foundation for their future endeavours. Today has only added to the belief that our sixth form provides an excellent platform for students to develop their skills and prepare for higher education or future careers.”

Zac and Sophie receiving their results

Caitlyn K

n FACEBOOK POST OF THE MONTH

This Facebook post caught our eye…

n PLANNING APPLICATIONS

27 Clevedon Road, Failand, North Somerset BS8 3UG STATUS: registered Demolition of existing bungalow and erection of a two-storey dwelling with balcony to rear of house and solar panels on roof. Carport and attached garage. New boundary fences and wall with double gates to entrance.

11 Folleigh Drive Long Ashton BS41 9JD STATUS: registered Proposed change of use of the area above existing detached garage from incidental residential accommodation to ancillary accommodation/Airbnb.

63 Kings Croft Long Ashton BS41 9ED STATUS: registered Proposed garage conversion and erection of new detached garage.

4 Parsonage Road, Long Ashton, North Somerset BS41 9LL STATUS: registered Non material amendment to application 22/P/2516/FUH

Proposed erection of a single storey rear extension, front porch extension and loft conversion with front and rear dormers to allow for the raising the roof ridge height by a maximum of 540mm, increase the size of the front gable over the front bay window

and raise the height of the rear dormer by 400mm.

16 Belmont Drive, Failand, North Somerset BS8 3UU STATUS: registered Determination deadline: Fri 25 August 2023. Prior approval request for the erection of a single storey rear extension with a pitched roof that would 1) extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.10 metres; 2) have a maximum height of 3.70 metres; and 3) have eaves that are 3.00 metres high

5 Kempes Close, Long Ashton, BS41 9ER STATUS: registered Determination deadline: Thursday 14 September 2023.

Proposed demolition of existing side garage and erection of a part singlepart two-storey side extension, rear raised decking with external stairs and raised off-road parking area. Proposed replacement of all existing windows and doors, removal of 1 no. window and installation of 2 no. new windows at the north elevation. Replacement of existing canopy with glass replacement and render and cladding alterations alongside placement of solar panels to the south elevation.

Find out what’s happening this September in and around your neighbourhood

1 September FORWARDS

1&2 Sep; Bristol Downs. Tickets from £68.14 for adults & £18.08 for 5-15s www.forwardsbristol.co.uk/tickets

The new inner-city music festival aims to present high-quality, diverse and heritage music acts alongside emerging artists from Bristol and beyond. With three stages, the festival aims to present a contemporary curation of music while paying homage to Bristol’s long-standing history of being a music city.

2 September

Long Ashton Horticultural Society 97th Long Ashton Flower Show

2.30-5.00pm at the Village Hall. Admission £1. Members and children free. We have something to interest everyone. There are classes for all ages to enter – fruit, flowers, vegetables, baking, preserves, arts, crafts and photography. Bring your entries along between 8.30 and 10.00am.

Look out for the green show schedules at various venues in the village. We have a wonderful raffle with lots of prizes kindly donated by local businesses. While you wait for the raffle and prize-giving, why not sit and have a cuppa and a delicious cake or two? If you would like to become a member, contact Mary on longashtonhortsoc@gmail.com

DogFest, 2&3 September

Ashton Court Estate Tickets: £20; Under-5s and dogs free at: https://bit.ly/44Vha7h

Concession tickets are available 15% off tickets with code DFLOCAL when you book. Dog lovers and anyone who just loves a fantastic day out, DogFest is back. There will be activities for the whole family, including your four-legged friends. Enjoy displays from top canine athletes; free expert advice and workshops; breed meet-ups; big dog walks; fun dog show and fastest dog competitions; and have-a-go activities!

3 September

Bristol Vintage Kilo Sale. Paintworks, Bath Rd Bristol BS4 3EH Early bird tickets:10am or 11am, £3. General admission:12pm, £2. Under 12s free. Grab a bag on your way in and pick & mix your vintage clothing – cost £20 a kilo.

7 September

Lived and Loved Repair Workshop. Finisterre 70 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JY 18:00–20:30; £7 from https://bit. ly/3s2lkf5 Learn how to repair your

longashton&failandvoice

well-loved garments with the Lived and Loved repair team. No previous sewing experience needed. Learn the techniques used in the in-house workshop of darning a knitwear, patching a jacket or a sashiko denim repair.

11 September

Greatest Days Tickets from £18 plus a transaction fee. From 11-18 September. www.atgtickets.com/ shows/greatest-days/bristolhippodrome/

Enjoy more than 15 record-breaking

Take That songs, alongside a heartwarming and hilarious story of love and laughter from Tim Firth, the award-winning writer of Calendar Girls, that will make your heart Shine.

20 September

Quiz Night – The Angel Inn

7.45pm start. Teams of up to 6. £2 per player – cash prize for winning team and charity donation for losing team.

30 September

Live music from Canham and Pugh

The Angel Inn. From 8pm

Beer and Cider Festival

4pm onwards, Long Ashton Community Centre. Tickets available from September at the Post Office. This year heralds the 10th Long Ashton Beer & Cider Festival. Come along and sample the very best in beers and ciders that are made nearby and enjoy local bands and fabulous food. All profits goes to help Long Ashton Community Centre.

Long Ashton Memory Café

This free to attend event runs every 4th Thursday monthly at the Jubilee Pavilion. Refreshments are provided. Email: lamemorycafe@gmail. com or tel: Liz Anderson 07967587411

The Georgian House Museum

7 Great George St, Bristol

Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays & Sundays 11-4. Take a trip back to the 18th century to see what life was like then.

Blaise Museum

Thursdays-Sundays 11-4. Free entry but check parking charges. Visit the costume collection dating from the 1730s to the present day and find out about fashions through time and learn about the social changes which shaped them.

REGULAR EVENTS

Failand Village Hall

The Failand Village Hall is a local community hub set in the North Somerset countryside. We are a large

Long Ashton Health walks

From 10.30am on 4, 11 & 18 September. Meeting at Long Ashton Community Centre at 10.25am for a sociable walk along village footpaths. Different distances offered. No need to book; just come along – it’s FREE! Longer ‘Away Walks’ also take place –the next one is 25 September. Aimed at individuals who want to start and stay active. Assistance dogs only. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Contact Ruth Chapman: 07814 671 369 or Karen Barratt: 07855 402 768

hall with licensed bar, commercial standard kitchen, stage and ample parking. A perfect venue for everything from wedding receptions to yoga classes, pop-up markets and children’s parties. For more information, go to www.failandvillagehall.org.uk

Failand Tots

Failand Tots meets monthly at the Failand Village Hall and is for parents and grandparents with babies, toddlers and preschool children. £2.50 per adult (cash). Tea, coffee & biscuits provided. Please bring a mug with a lid and fruit or a snack for your little ones. Contact: https://m.facebook.com/gro ups/1320318405445072/?ref=share

The Golden Retriever Experience thegoldenretrieverexperience. com Minehead. Pricing for two-hour sessions: Adults, £70; student/youth £60; seniors, £60 (age 66+); child, £35 (ages 2-12); military personnel & partners £60; under-2s, Free. NB 6% booking fee applies. Enjoy dog cuddles and fetch with these gentle and intelligent dogs. Sessions are aimed at those considering dog ownership or who are unable to have a dog; helping people overcome a fear of dogs; PTSD sufferers; anyone suffering a bereavement; and more.

Bristol Inclusive Thrill Seekers https://www.club-bits.com

Contact: James Rudge 0758 061 9119 hello@club-bits.com

This volunteer-led charity provides people of all abilities and backgrounds with the opportunity to take part in adventure sports. It runs weekly sessions that give people the platform to take part in activities such as climbing, with its range of volunteers helping to make the activities accessible for people of all abilities.

Mondays Youth Club 18.00-20.30 kathy@epicyour@gmail.com

Wednesdays

Failand Arts & Crafts Group 2.00–4.30pm. Bring your art, craft or hobby along and join the group at Failand Village Hall, Oxhouse Lane. £2.50 per visit; first one FREE plus £12 per year (pro rata) from Jan to Dec. Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits included. Occasional demos, members’ skills sharing and chat always welcome. Please contact Fi Harris at feltbyfi@gmail.com

Walking Football at Portishead

Town FC is expanding to a Wednesday evening session. If you are an over 50 male or over 40 female and want a bit of exercise, fresh air and make new friends in a fun environment, please contact Martyn on 07305824527 or email dennis19622@hotmail.com

Long Ashton Westleaze WI

First WEDNESDAY in the month, JUBILEE PAVILION, LONG ASHTON. We welcome visitors and are looking for new members to join this friendly group. For details of our next meeting, contact Sally 01275 393591 Sallyjmsterland@gmail.com

Cafe@Keedwell 10-12:00

Pop in to Keedwell Church, Long Ashton, for a coffee and a chat, meet new people or just enjoy a change of scene. Run by volunteers from the community and church. Open every Wednesday morning. Contact office@ allsaintsla.org.uk or tel 01275 393109 for more info. We look forward to seeing you.

Youth Club 16.00-18.30. kathy@epicyour@gmail.com

LAMBS

11.00-13.00. A group for mums with babies to meet and chat. henna.crabb@n-somerset.gov.uk

Thursdays Youth Club 18.00-20.30

kathy@epicyour@gmail.com

Failand Whist Club

We are a small club that is looking for new players to join us each week. We meet at Failand Village Hall on Thursday evenings at 7pm. For information, please contact Val on 01275 463263 OR Helen on 01275 392676 or 07837 379076.

Fridays

Warm Lounge 10:00-13:00

Long Ashton Community Centre. Pop in for a cuppa and a chat. info@la-together.org

Toddler Group 10.00-12.00. info@la-together.org

To advertise, contact Ruth on 07590 527 664 or email ruth@longashtonandfailandvoice.co.uk