South Bristol Voice June 2022 by South Bristol Voice

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www.southbristolvoice.co.uk WIDEST CIRCULATION IN SOUTH BRISTOL - 12,000 COPIES OF THIS EDITION June, 2022 — Issue 78 FREE EVERY MONTH IN BEDMINSTER, SOUTHVILLE, KNOWLE, TOTTERDOWN, ASHTON, ASHTON VALE & WINDMILL HILL

Bristolians vote to axe the mayoral role Bristol mayor Marvin Rees at the Bristol mayoral referendum count at Oasis Academy, BrislingtonImage: Bristol Live)

New secondary school granted approval PAGE 5

Southville homes called ‘a slap in the face’ PAGE 7

Britain’s best burger has been found PAGE 8

How to improve your gut health PAGE 14

Memories of a Bristol boyhood PAGE 24

What’s on in our area this month PAGE 29

TWO years’ work is about to get underway to ensure Bristol City Council is ready to replace an elected mayor and cabinet with a committee system. The new way the local

authority will be run – voted for in a legally binding referendum on May 5 by an overwhelming majority of 59% to 41% – comes into force in 2024 after current mayor Marvin Rees finishes his

second term in office. It will see groups of councillors make decisions, with full council of all 70 elected members required to set the Turn to page 3

A new skatepark for Victoria Park PAGE 30

Letters PAGE 34

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours Tel: 01179634373

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Contacts

Ruth Drury Sales Director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Jane Williams Editor news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising June 11, 15 2022 is May

COMPLAINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the South Bristol Voice, contact the Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code. Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 07590527664.

May 2022 2022 June,

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH ... My MP? Karin Smyth MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA By phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Call the above number for an appointment My councillor? Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. Tessa Fitzjohn Green, Bedminster By phone: 07584182801 By email: Cllr.Tessa.Fitzjohn@bristol.gov.uk Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster. By email: Cllr.mark. bradshaw@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 0117 353 3160 Tony Dyer Green, Southville By phone: 07584182862 By email:

Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk Christine Townsend Green, Southville By phone: 07584183843 By email: Cllr.Christine.Townsend@bristol. gov.uk Christopher Davies Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr. Christopher.Davies@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07826917714 Gary Hopkins Knowle Community Party. Email: Cllr.Gary.Hopkins@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07977 512159 Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584184577 By email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584186535 By email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk

USEFUL NUMBERS Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Waste, roads 0117 922 2100 Pests, dog wardens 0117 922 2500 Council tax 0117 922 2900

Housing benefit 0117 922 2300 Social services 0117 922 2900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999

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June, 2022

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Campaigners celebrate at the Bristol Mayoral Referendum count From page 1 budget, council tax and key governance policies. Other powers will be delegated to committees, such as housing, finance and performance, as well as education, transport, environment, adult social care and children’s services. Bristol City Council will need to develop a process to design the committee system and set out the specifics of how it will work, which will involve discussions between cross-party members and officers as well as input from

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In a press release, the city council said: “Bristol will adopt a committee system of governance in May 2024 following the declaration of results in the referendum on how the city is run. “Work will be carried out over the next two years to develop plans for the new arrangements, and the new system of governance will be implemented in May 2024. Further detail regarding this process and the emerging model will be made available in due course.” A document on the authority’s website, outlining what would

happen if the vote favoured moving to a committee system, said: “The detailed structure of policy/service committees will be agreed as part of the transitional arrangements. “The authority would also establish a number of regulatory committees, with responsibility for matters such as planning, licensing, audit and human resources. The detailed structure of regulatory committees will be agreed as part of the transitional arrangements.” By Adam Postans, Local Democracy reporter

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June, 2022

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Planning approval given for brand new South Bristol secondary school MARKING a key milestone in the project to deliver a new secondary in Knowle, Bristol City Council has approved plans for a much-needed 900-place school which will be called Oasis Academy Daventry Road. The former Merrywood School located on Daventry Road will be demolished to make way for a new building with state-of-the-art facilities, including an activity studio, sports hall, sports pitches, and multi-use games area. John Murphy, CEO of Oasis Community Learning, said: “We are delighted to share with the local community the name of the new academy and thrilled that plans have been approved by Bristol City Council. “It marks an important step forward in the project to deliver Oasis Academy Daventry Road; a secondary school that will be passionate about the progress of every student and deliver an exceptional education for local young people across South Bristol.” Until recently, the former Merrywood School was home to The Park Centre and used to run

An artists’ impression of how the school will look once completed community services. The charity has now moved into its purposebuilt premises on the same Daventry Road site. Oasis Academy Daventry Road is forecasted to open in its permanent building in September 2024. The next phase of the project

is underway to start preparing the site for demolition works. To meet the need for school places from September 2023, the Department for Education and Bristol City Council is working towards opening the school in temporary accommodation on the site of

an existing school in Hengrove, Oasis Academy John Williams. The proposed site for temporary accommodation is currently being assessed for its suitability to ensure it would meet the needs of all of the school’s students and staff. We will update you as needed.

Local charity launches appeal to support Ukrainian refugees AS the bombardment of Ukraine continues to exacerbate the refugee crisis across Europe, Bristol-based Aid Box charity is announcing a Crowdfunder campaign to raise money to expand its services. A local grassroots charity dedicated to providing practical aid and wellbeing support to refugees and asylum seekers in the Bristol area, Aid Box is seeing unprecedented demand for its services with a new influx of often traumatised Ukrainian families. Some 300 Ukrainian refugees are arriving through the Homes for Ukrainians scheme, and many more are expected to arrive in the coming weeks to join family

members in the UK. “Our small charity has had to quickly expand once again to a big crisis,” says Imogen McIntosh, Aid Box’s founder and director. “We will need to support both the people who have been displaced and the families taking people in. We need local support now more than ever before.” Aid Box’s Crowdfunder campaign aims to allow the charity to adapt and expand its services to meet the new demands of the Ukrainian crisis as well to assist all the refugee communities across Bristol in these difficult times. The charity is increasing the opening hours of its Free Shop and advice centre

from three days to five, is recruiting new volunteers and staff, is running more of its Connections Programmes, and is increasing its wellness activities such yoga, football, sewing, swimming, cycling as well as women’s groups and cooking classes. Without any support from government, most of the Ukrainian refugees will rely on charities for guidance, advice, sanctuary, and practical support. “We need your help,” McIntosh says. “Please dig deep and support these refugee families arriving in Bristol. You can make a difference to the lives of these displaced people.”

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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June, 2022

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June, 2022

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Southville new homes called a ‘slap in the face’ By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter PLANS for 46 homes in Southville that have been slammed as “a slap in the face” and “disappointing on so many fronts” have been narrowly approved by councillors. Bristol City Council development control committee voted 5-4 to grant permission to demolish Castlemead House offices near Asda and instead build two houses and a fivestorey block of 44 flats. Officers recommended giving the go-ahead despite the proposals having zero affordable homes, but the developers changed their minds and included three of these just days before the meeting after being criticised on social media by the authority’s cabinet member for housing. Seven objections were received, including from BS3 Planning Group and both Green ward councillors, who said applicants Land and Buildings Ltd and consultants Pegasus Group had failed to engage with them. Bristol Tree Forum disputed the agents’ claim that the scheme would result in a biodiversity net gain and said its own calculations showed there would be a net loss, so it should be refused. The meeting was told the current occupiers, Castlemead

How the block of 44 flats would look in Coronation Road, Southville (Image: Land and Buildings Ltd/Pegasus Group)

Castlemead House offices in Coronation Road, Southville (Image: Google Maps)

Insurance Brokers, needed to move into new premises because the old building was no longer suitable for a modern business wanting to become carbon neutral. But no study had been carried out to show the site, on the corner of Coronation Road and St Johns Road, had no future for employment use, councillors heard. A planning officer said the proposed design could be an “attractive addition to that corner and remove what is a negative building”. She said the applicant’s ecologist and the tree forum disagreed but that the scheme would “comply with the Bristol tree replacement standard” and there would be a lot of new planting. When the plans were originally submitted they included 20 per cent affordable homes, but figures supplied by the developers and independently verified by officers showed it was not financially viable to have any below market

price. A late amendment to the plans changed this from zero to three flats to be sold at a discount. Katy Mourant, of Pegasus, told the meeting: “The applicant accepts affordable housing is an emotive issue and is therefore willing to offer three units as affordable.” Members granted consent “with a heavy heart” after roundly criticising the development. Green Cllr Tom Hathway said: “This application feels like a slap in the face, not only because of the really poor affordable housing commitment but there has been no engagement with the ward councillors, poor engagement with the community, it’s really poor ambition on our climate commitments and ecology for the site, and the mix of units doesn’t contribute to a balanced community, as well as the crucial loss of employment space in a sustainable location, so I can’t vote for this.”

Green Cllr Ed Plowden said: “The word of the evening is disappointing. This is disappointing on so many fronts. Sustainability – bare minimum. Design – not doing damage but hardly enhancing a conservation area. Very disappointing engagement, and most of all, very disappointing on affordable housing. “However, I’m mindful that construction inflation is high and I’m very nervous that if we turn this down then we would find that any affordable housing would become even less viable, so with a very heavy heart I will be supporting this.” Committee chairman Tory Cllr Richard Eddy said he was normally loath to see employment space lost but the building was not environmentally fit for purpose. He said the three affordable homes represented “considerable progress” but regretted there weren’t more and that a planning inspector was likely to overturn a refusal on appeal and award costs against the council. Other members were divided between voting against because they could not accept so few affordable homes and voting in favour despite being “quite uneasy” and “very frustrated” because the law and planning policies meant there was not enough justification to throw it out.

Six bridges along the New Cut to undergo repairs A MULTI-million-pound investment in some of Bristol’s most iconic and much used bridges has been proposed to deliver necessary repairs and maintenance over a lengthy five-year period. The works required to six bridges along the New Cut include joint repairs, resurfacing and masonry strengthening to ensure each remains open and safe for many years to come. The six bridges that make up this proposal are Bath Bridge, Bedminster New Bridge, Bedminster Old Bridge, Gaol Ferry Bridge, Langton Street Footbridge and Vauxhall Footbridge. It’s proposed that the investment begins with works to

Gaol Ferry Bridge to replace the structural steel beams, replace the bridge decking, repair some stonework, and repaint the bridge. Should the £1 million funding for the repair and refurbishment works receive Cabinet approval, Gaol Ferry Bridge will completely close in June this year and remain shut for the duration of the works which are expected to last six months. Councillor Don Alexander, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “I am pleased we are in a position to give a concrete approach to how we’ll tackle this challenge and put Gaol Ferry Bridge forward to be the first for refurbishment. Our highways and structures

teams have been working on developing the proposed plan for this bridge with a focus on trying to minimise the impact on people who use the bridge and local businesses. This work has ensured that a range of options have been considered and the best possible solution available is being put forward. Although I recognise this will result in some disruption for people we will stay in touch with local businesses and the community to keep everyone updated on the work. The diversions being put in place will be clearly signposted and communicated across all media.” The diversions planned for the closure will signpost people along routes via Bedminster Bridges and Bathurst Bridge or

Gaol Ferry Bridge has been in need of repair for some time across Vauxhall Bridge. These routes have been informed by work carried out earlier this year when officers surveyed people who cross and use the footbridge to find out where they were travelling from and heading to, and the reasons and timings of their journeys. The results are being used to map out the various diversionary routes to minimise disruption while the footbridge is closed.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n NEWS A BRISLINGTON-based burger business has stormed the National Burger Awards 2022 with its winning signature creation. Danny’s Burgers won over an esteemed panel of industry judges at the UK-wide event with The Beef Chucky 2.0. The burger features a 50-day dry aged beef blend, dry aged ex-dairy chuck roll, Kerrymaid American cheese, a beer cheese sauce, Kühne sliced dill pickles, mustard, candied jalapeños and fresh white onions, encased in a seeded brioche bun. The burger, cooked by Danny Hawke, saw off stiff competition from 15 of the UK’s most elite signature burgers. “I didn’t see it coming at all,” said Hawke. “It’s unbelievable. I’m a little bit scared about how busy this is going to make us now. After coming second last year, I wasn’t aware of how much of an impact the National Burger Awards could have, but off the back of that it was crazy, so no doubt this will be the same. I think this will even give me a push to open a restaurant.”

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June, 2022

n NEWS

Double the trouble at Bristol Zoo

Bristol is investing in the arts sector. Photo credit: Bristol City Centre BID

Investment in Bristol’s culture and events sector AS part of the Bristol City Council’s ongoing commitment and investment to culture, the city’s Cultural Investment Programme 2023-27 has relaunched for a second round of funding. The programme will provide project grants, as well as unrestricted funding to support Bristol’s cultural organisations, festivals, events, artists and the citizens they work with. The vision for the programme is to make arts and culture accessible to all. From 2023, the Cultural Investment Programme will distribute £2,442,240 over four years in Bristol’s arts and culture sector through three types of grant: Openness (four year), Imagination (two year) and Originators (one year). The new programme has been reviewed and improved following feedback from people working in the sector. Councillor Craig Cheney, Deputy Mayor and Cabinet member for Finance, Governance and Performance, said: “Following an uncertain couple of years for the creative industries, it’s more important than ever that we continue to support arts and cultural activity in the city. Our grant programmes will support the recovery of the arts and culture sector and also businesses across the city centre and Bristol’s high streets. At the same time, we will nurture Bristol’s national and international reputation as a creative cultural city, to actively advance equality and diversity, and to respond creatively to need and support social change.”

Zookeepers at Bristol Zoo Gardens were overjoyed to welcome two new arrivals recently - twin golden lion tamarins. The tiny new arrivals are part of a global breeding programme and international effort to safeguard the future of these charismatic monkeys. The infants, which weigh about 60 grams each, live in the heart of the zoo with their mum Missy, dad Dourado as well as older siblings Manchego, Rae and Leicester. Both new additions are thriving and have been spotted being carried around by their dad between feedings. Lynsey Bugg, Curator of Mammals, said: “Golden lion tamarins form tight social family groups, which help them with the amount of energy it takes to raise their infants. This has allowed the species to make having multiple births the norm, Two tiny golden lion tamarins with over three-quarters of have been born at Bristol Zoo wildborn golden tamarins being twins. Also, by getting the older siblings involved, they have a chance to learn all the skills they will need once it is their turn to find a partner and start their own family group.” The twins’ birth is important news because they are part of a vital European breeding programme to help protect golden lion tamarins.

Local charities benefit from cash grants to tackle loneliness and isolation CHARITIES and organisations working to tackle loneliness and isolation in the South West have been awarded vital grants by electricity distributor Western Power Distribution (WPD), based off the Feeder Road, from its Community Matters Fund. Among the beneficiaries is Flamingo Chicks (pictured), a charity from Bristol giving disabled and ill children the opportunity to explore movement. WPD’s £9,080 grant will allow the organisation to launch a volunteering dance project allowing people with disabilities to take up a range of roles to reduce their loneliness and isolation. Katherine Sparkes, founder of Flamingo Chicks, said: “We’re thrilled with this incredible funding which will enable us to tackle loneliness and social isolation through accessible volunteering – while enabling disabled children to dance.” Another beneficiary is Let’s Talk About Loss, which has been awarded £5,000.

WPD’s grant will allow the organisation to support their community with an event for young people who are grieving and feeling isolated. This project will help them to feel connected, make new friends and take part in activities to understand their grief. Beth French, founder at Let’s Talk about Loss, said: “We are absolutely delighted that WPD will support Let’s Talk About Loss through their Community Matters Fund.

After the pandemic left so many people grieving and isolated, we’re passionate about bringing people together to share their experiences and talk through the taboos of grief. We can’t wait for our Big South West Grief Meet Up later this year.” WPD’s Resources & External Affairs Director, Alison Sleightholm, said: “The pandemic, with its lockdowns and social distancing measures, has inevitably led to feelings of loneliness and isolation for some groups and people in the South West. “We’re pleased to be able to help tackle this growing issue by supporting charities who provide crucial interventions and help build better mental health – coinciding with Mental Health Awareness week, which this year is all about combatting loneliness. It’s great to see the first charities and organisations receive their grants. They are providing crucial care and that will make a real impact on local lives.”

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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June, 2022

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Meeting the team tackling Making Change violence against women and Standing Strong By Gill Hague

AS part of the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s (OPCC) continuing work concerning violence against women and girls, PCC Mark Shelford recently met with the team behind the Respite Rooms Trial in Bristol. The PCC met with NextLink, St Mungo’s and Deputy Mayor Asher Craig to discuss keeping women safe in the city and to find out more about the short-term accommodation. Opened in October 2021, the 10-bed facility offers immediate safe spaces to women who have experienced domestic abuse, violence, rape or sexual assault, sex work or exploitation and who are sleeping rough or at risk of doing so. The rooms are staffed 24/7 by women who are able to offer trauma-informed intensive support around intersecting needs such as substance misuse, mental health and issues relating to migration and trafficking. PCC Mark Shelford said: “It was a privilege to meet with the hardworking team who support some of the most vulnerable women in the city. This accommodation has and will continue to be a lifeline for many women and will provide the vital support that they deserve. “Tackling male violence against women and girls forms part of first priority in my recently published Police and Crime Plan. Not only do we need to continue to secure funding for sexual and domestic violence services in Avon and Somerset, we must challenge the attitudes and behaviour that underpin misogynistic behaviour. There needs to be sufficient support to change the behaviours of offenders through effective management and perpetrator support programmes.” St Mungo’s Regional Head, David Ingerslev added: “The services we run here provide a vital service for women in the city. It was brilliant to have an opportunity to share the voices of women who have used the Respite Rooms service and their own experiences of what has worked well for them during the pilot stage of the project, as well as what we can focus on to ensure that we can continue to deliver an excellent service that works for clients in the future.”

LAST month, a multimedia evening of international film, poetry and music was held at the Old Picture House in Totterdown. Called ‘Making Change and Standing Strong for Women, Social Justice and the Environment’, the sold out event featured film on the cinema screen, poetry about different countries and music. The event was a benefit for TreeSisters and Mifumi. It was coordinated by Gill Hague, Professor Emerita of Violence Against Women Studies, poet and long-term activist on gender violence, alongside author and poet Rachel Bentham. The event was anchored by videos and film clips about the late great author Maya Angelou, together with film of her reading her famous poems. She was a lover of women’s blues and her words were paired with Classic Women’s Blues numbers from local jazz and blues duo Small Days, which is Natalie Davis and Dave Merrick. One audience member said: “What an intensely moving evening of passion and activism from around the world. The words and poetry of Maya Angelou reminded us of how wonderful she was.” Another added: “It was a fabulous event. A great combination of music, words and film, packed with feelings, ideas and solidarity.”

New E-Cargo Bike Scheme Launched BRISTOL is pedaling its way to a greener future with a new e-cargo bike trial scheme. The West of England Combined Authority’s £920,000 investment will encourage pedal power with more goods and services delivered by e-cargo bikes rather than diesel vans. A trial will take place between June 2022 and June 2023. Using GPS trackers, the trial will monitor the carbon savings of the fast, reliable and clean bikes. With recent estimates suggesting e-cargo bikes deliver about 60% faster than diesel vans and cut carbon emissions by 90%, the Mayor says the bikes will mean less pollution and congestion across the West of England, good for the environment and good for the region. Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “If we are going to reach our ambitious net-zero targets, we urgently need to put on the brakes and re-evaluate how goods move across our region. “I’ve spoken to many smaller businesses who sing the praises of electric bikes, but getting these larger organisations to sign up is a significant step. I’m proud that the West of England Combined Authority under my leadership is helping ensure polluting diesel vans are a thing of the past. From groceries to medical supplies, e-cargo bikes can help cut congestion and clean up our toxic air. That’s a win-win for our region.”

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

June, 2022

The FixX bike workshop has been saved THE future of a pioneering South Bristol youth project has been secured after it transformed an old security building into a bike workshop. After six months of hard work on the FixX building at The Grove by staff and volunteers, the shop, which sells secondhand bikes and offers bike servicing, is now open to the general public. FixX faced uncertainty after its previous landlord, Hartcliffe Community Farm, was served an eviction notice by Bristol

City Council and it was forced to vacate its premises. FixX runs courses for young people, training them to repair bikes while supported by a professional bike mechanic and a youth worker. They can then keep one of the bikes, while the other is sold by FixX. Dave Cousins, who founded FixX, said: “It’s not just about young people becoming bike mechanics, it’s about providing a stepping stone to other things, building

confidence and a sense of purpose. It’s learning skills to be able deal with the inevitable knockbacks that happen in life.” There are so few business sites in the area and we want to be visible and challenge the narrative that ‘there’s nothing in Hartcliffe,” said Dave. “I’m delighted that it seems as though a period of uncertainty for us finally seems to be over and we can concentrate on supporting young people and serving the local community.”

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The Poppy Appeal needs more volunteers

Can you help the Poppy Appeal?

FROM flower-filled cottage gardens and Mediterranean style courtyards, and from productive plots to wildlife friendly spaces, Bedminster’s gardens are full of surprises. On Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 June (between 12 noon and 5pm), more than 30 gardens across BS3 will be opening for you to explore. This year’s Bedminster’s Secret Gardens open weekend is the tenth event and will be bigger and better than ever. A free guide with a map and all the garden details can be picked up from Riverside Garden Centre, the Southville Centre, Windmill Hill City Farm and venues across BS3 or downloaded from bloomingbedminster.org.uk. Just donate £3 at the first garden you visit and then visit as many gardens as you like over the weekend. All money raised will be support local community and environment projects.

THE Poppy Appeal in Bristol and South Gloucestershire normally raises more than half a million pounds a year, but they need more people to volunteer to help organise collections at venues, such as local supermarkets. The money raised in the Poppy Appeal is used to provide help, support and guidance to past and current members of the armed services and their dependents. The Poppy Appeal has a vacancy for a Poppy Appeal Organiser at Asda Bedminster, spot that normally raises £19,000, so they would love your help to ensure that they can continue to raise the money. Poppy Appeal Organisers receive full support and training from the Royal British Legion, and an opportunity to work beside other passionate and committed volunteers. Organisers do not need to be a member of the Royal British Legion or a member of the military. If you are interested or want to know more, please contact Jackie on 07527151360.

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southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n NEWS South Bristol Co-operative Learning Trust:

Important community information By Ingrid Skeels Dear parents, grandparents, carers and community members Do you want all south Bristol children to thrive in education and go on to fulfil their potential in life? Do you think children and schools benefit from being part of the local community, and the local community benefits too? As we all know, there are big inequalities in children’s achievements and life chances in south Bristol. As well as focusing on formal education and core subjects to address this, we believe children need a broad, rich, cultural and community education that celebrates achievement in all its forms. And that all children in south Bristol should have access to these opportunities. Please find below an update on the Co-operative Trust’s new mission to support all south Bristol schools, where there is interest. But first, a repeat of some important community information relating to the Trust’s previous role with four local schools: Ashton Park, Luckwell, Compass Point and Ashton Vale. BS3 schools - Important community reminder Between 2010 - 2018, these four BS3 schools joined forces as a Cooperative Learning Trust, alongside local partner organisations covering the arts, culture, sports and higher education. As a co-operative organisation and registered charity, the schools’ assets (land and buildings) remained in public ownership, held ‘in trust’ by the community: pupils, parents, staff and BS3 citizens. With the government’s push towards academisation, it was agreed that it was in the schools’ best interests to choose their own academy partner, and in 2018 the schools became part of Gatehouse Green Learning Trust (GGLT) along with Redland Green school. With academy status, school assets move out of public ownership. So as part of the transition, the South Bristol Cooperative Learning Trust created an important legal agreement to keep them safe into the future. Should any academy trust running these

Handfuls of Harmony local schools plan to sell off or let go of any of the schools’ assets, plans must first be put to a BS3 community consultation. However unlikely it is to be needed, it is important to have the agreement in place. How the Trust can support south Bristol children and schools now Following this transition, we chose to maintain the Co-operative Learning Trust and its charitable status so we can continue to support activities that promote the co-operative values and a broader education for children. However this can now be wherever there is interest from any south Bristol school or community member One of the many cultural activities that the South Bristol Cooperative Learning Trust initiated was setting up and growing the Handfuls of Harmony community choir from 2013 onwards. The choir is still going strong, with a core of 50 adults and many schools in south Bristol involved. It is selfsupporting financially, which was always an aim. After a more dormant time over the past few years and Covid, we are now keen to support other project ideas in south Bristol schools around music, art, drama, sport, outdoor education, technology and community involvement, as well as projects that help to develop skills such

as leadership, problem solving, teamwork, and communication, alongside qualities such as a sense of respect and caring. Individuals involved in the Trust have experience in education, community, arts, sports and the cooperative movement. We also have connections with higher education, arts, culture, sports and community institutions in south Bristol; some connections with international projects and institutions; and strong connections with the co-operative movement. Most

importantly, we are keen to make things happen and to support people with ideas. If you are a parent, teacher or Head with a project idea or want to get involved in the Trust, or if you want more information on the assets agreement or anything else here, please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you. South Bristol Co-operative Learning Trust You can contact the Vice Chair Steve Moseley via email on moseley072@gmail.com

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southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n HEALTH

Long Covid numbers are ‘frightening’ By Adam Postans, Local Democracy Reporter

Helpful ways to improve your gut health IN the UK, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects one in five people. That means 20% of us are living with debilitating symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. What’s more, is that poor gut health affects not just digestion, but also our immune health, skin health and even our mental health. With a rise in chronic diseases such as IBS, anxiety and psoriasis, it’s never been more important to take care of our gut! Luckily there are several strategies that we can implement to keep our gut (and our overall health) in Bethany Horne good nick… A simple place to start is by eating a variety of whole-foods like vegetables, whole-grains and legumes. This encourages gut bacterial diversity, which is considered to be the center of human health! Set yourself a challenge to “eat the rainbow” this week by adding one or two new vegetables to your food shop, or pick one or two new recipes to try. If you want to give your gut some extra TLC, then load up on polyphenols (beneficial plant compounds). Polyphenol rich foods like citrus, tea, berries, herbs and spices help lower inflammation and reduce levels of harmful gut bacteria. Get more bang for your buck by choosing organic crops where possible as organic varieties have a wider range of polyphenols compared to conventional crops. Prebiotic foods like green bananas, onions, and artichokes “feed” beneficial bacteria in the gut and in doing so, help to support overall digestion and immune function. Caution: If you suffer from IBS, then start with small amounts before gradually increasing to avoid aggravating digestive symptoms. Finally (and most importantly) de-stress! Stress impairs the release of digestive juices, alters movement of food through (and out!) of the body and can even upset the delicate balance of gut microbes - resulting in all sorts of digestive symptoms. Before your next meal, try this breathing exercise; breathe in for four counts, hold for seven counts, and exhale for eight counts - repeat three to five times. Other stress management techniques might include meditation (try the Headspace or Calm apps), nature walks, yoga, a warm bath, journaling anything that makes you feel good! Try these suggestions to start improving your (gut) health today and remember, small changes go a long way. If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms/conditions mentioned in this article and would like further support, then consider booking in with a nutritional therapist to help you identify and address the root cause. By Bethany Horne, Nutritional Therapist and IBS Specialist at www.bethanyhorne.com

THE number of Bristolians thought to have Long Covid is “frightening”, say health bosses. An estimated 12,580 residents have the condition, described by a support group as the “biggest mass disabling event in history”. It has about 200 symptoms and affects a disproportionately high number of people who are white, female or of working age, a meeting of Bristol health and wellbeing board was told. Members heard a wide range of services had been developed for sufferers in the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire area and hundreds were on the waiting list, while vaccinated residents were “far less likely” to develop symptoms. Bristol City Council consultant in public health Sally Hogg said: “Vaccination is, without doubt, the key. If we can get those vaccination rates up, we will be in a better place to deal with long covid.” She said the Office for National Statistics estimated that 1.7million people in the UK had the condition – about 2.7 per cent of the population – which would equate to 12,580 people in Bristol. Jen Tomkinson, head of specialist services at healthcare provider Sirona, which is running the area’s long covid services in partnership with a wide range of NHS partners, told the meeting: “There is a large proportion of people who report with this. “In fact the numbers are frightening – 12,000 people in our area certainly gives me palpitations. There is a whole proportion of people who get better and don’t need treatment, and we are focused on those who have reported with it for 12 weeks. “We know there are certain groups of people who are more at risk. It seems to be working-age women aged 30-69, people who have another long-term condition such as respiratory or heart disease, people who live in more deprived areas and those who are working in education and health and social care, which is probably more about exposure than anything.” The board was told two-thirds of people referred were women She said it was a new disease so they had not known what the symptoms would be, and that it turned out there were about 200 of them. Half of sufferers experienced fatigue, one-third had either shortness of breath or loss of smell, while one in four described a loss in concentration or their sense of taste. “There are a myriad of symptoms – muscle pain, difficulty with word-finding – but it also has a really large impact on people’s lives, such as finding it hard to exercise, lacking confidence to drive, lacking energy to parent or be a carer if they have children,” she said. Ms Tomkinson said that when the services were being developed last spring, people with long covid felt like many employers did not believe them. “So some of the work we’ve done is to make sure it can be recognised,” she told the City Hall meeting. “We have evolved our service as it has gone on and conditions emerged. Sirona runs a single point of access for people. We have received 1,400 referrals so far, mostly from primary care. We have a significant waiting list with 400 people.” She said Sirona operated a “front door” service that directed patients to appropriate providers, such as the specialist ME fatigue unit at North Bristol NHS Trust which runs Southmead Hospital. “We have developed some peer support groups, mental health and wellbeing therapies, and we are just developing an agreement for a psychologist to come in. We are working with occupational health providers to look at how we might support people back to work.” She said the reason long covid affected more working-age people those who had retired could be because older residents were vaccinated first. Ms Tomkinson said the NHS was funding the service on a yearby-year basis which made it “really challenging” to attract senior clinicians with the required breadth of skills because they could only be offered one-year contracts.

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southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n HEALTH

Teaching our youngsters how to cook

Students at Merchant’s Academy have really got behind the programme led by Kate Percy (pictured in the centre) KATE Percy aims to revolutionise the health of the next generation with her new campaign to enable and inspire young people to cook five simple, nourishing recipes before they leave home as well as deliver a basic understanding of how to eat for better physical and mental wellbeing. The aim is to provide a foundation for young people to make healthier food and lifestyle choices and gain the skills and the confidence to enjoy cooking for the rest of their lives. Kate Percy, who is an award-winning food writer, is running three pilot schemes of #Cook5withKatePercy before a roll-out to schools nationally in September, one of which is in Bristol with 11-12 year olds at The Merchant’s Academy in Withywood.

Diet-related disease is putting an intolerable strain on our nation’s health and finances, especially since the pandemic. 40% of 10 year olds are either overweight or obese. According to a recent study, one in four Brits can only cook three recipes from scratch. #Cook5withKatePercy addresses this problem by making cooking bite-size and accessible with the Power of 5 concept: five recipes, five key nutrition basics and five cooking hacks over the course of five sessions to provide a range of achievable skills, tips and tricks to start young people on a healthy cooking journey for life. Students can then invite someone they would like to share their meal with to join them for the final session. “Please don’t write these children off,”

says Kate Percy. “Children pick up cooking skills and understand nutrition basics superquickly. They just need the opportunity. Many of the amazing year 7’s at Merchant’s Academy had never cooked before. “After five sessions they are chopping veggies like a pro! And they’ve got their heads around the washing up too. It’s amazing to see them readily trying new foods and flavours when involved in the preparation and cooking of them. “We’re also not talking about cupcakes and cookies, #Cook5WithKatePercy is about enabling and inspiring young people to cook proper food; everyday meals to support a healthy lifestyle. It’s something we’ve refined over many years working in many different types of schools.”

The Midnight Walk will light up the night NIGHT-TIME charity stroll The Midnight Walk returns to Bristol on Saturday 18 June with a tropical beach theme, perfectly designed for a midsummer’s evening of celebration. The event, which has either a five or 10-mile option, promises to be a great night out with friends so don your brightest colours, Hawaiian print shirts and straw hats, or go all out with a grass skirt and coconut top! The sponsored walk is an opportunity to help raise funds for people who have a lifelimiting illness and who are cared for by St Peter’s Hospice, based in Brentry. The Midnight Walk starts at Millennium Square where walkers gather from 8.30pm for an energetic warm up. Setting off at dusk, the party trail takes each group of walkers past some of Bristol’s most iconic sights, including the SS Great Britain and the Clifton Suspension

Walkers limbering up ahead of the Midnight Walk in Bristol last summer Bridge. Once the finish line is crossed, there’s a silent disco to make the fun last even longer. Sarah Allen-Gunn, Director of Fundraising and Marketing for St Peter’s Hospice, says: “Come and join us for what promises to be a fantastic night out! Whether you bring friends, family or both,

Gather your friends for a fun night out while raising money for charity

there’s always an incredible atmosphere when hundreds of Hospice supporters gather together to take on a challenge for a cause close to their hearts. “Last year’s walk raised £44,000 and with more people taking part this year, we’re hoping to beat that incredible

amount,” she added. Registration costs £20, which helps to cover the cost of putting on the event, so the sponsorship you raise, and donations made will go directly towards supporting Hospice patients and families across Bristol.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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southbristolvoice

June, 2022

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams Do you need advice from our Bristol Travel Clinic? We are here to help you! Well, things are starting to get back to some normality. We are seeing more people enquiring about our Bristol Travel Clinic service – our lowest cost guarantee with a price-match promise – remains very popular across Bristol. More people are also choosing to save time and embrace our prescription ordering app’s convenience and control. With the warmer, sunnier weather, it is essential to remember that the pandemic is still not over; it requires us to stay vigilant and follow sensible precautions. There are also more queries about sneezing, runny noses, itchy eyes - hayfever. One in four people in Bristol are hayfever sufferers. Some people develop hayfever for the first time as adults; most are lifelong sufferers. It usually begins in childhood or during the teenage years, more common in boys than girls. You are more likely to develop hayfever

It is possible to manage hayfever by taking some basic precautions: • Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors • Staying indoors, avoid grassy areas when the pollen count is high (shut windows & doors) • Keep pets out of the house during the hay fever season if possible. • Avoid smoking indoors as this can worsen symptoms. • Vacuum regularly and use an air purifier to extract pollen particles. • wearing wraparound sunglasses to stop pollen from getting in your eyes when you are outdoors if you have a family history of allergies, particularly asthma or eczema. Hayfever is caused by an allergy to the pollen found in plants. Grass pollen is the most common cause, but pollen from trees and weeds can also bring on symptoms. Days off school and work are not uncommon. And perish the thought of mowing a lawn! The good news is that your community pharmacy can help you identify hayfever and recommend the best treatment option, compatible with any other medical conditions or prescribed regular medications.

Quick & Easy Prescription Ordering

At Bedminster Pharmacy, we offer proven advice, information, and products to help control hayfever symptoms. Many people still visit A&E for hayfever symptoms every year. GP surgeries will also now offer a formal referral as part of the NHS Community Pharmacy Consultation Service. Please don’t hesitate to speak with us if your summer plans involve international travel, and do also book and come in for your Covid jabs when they are due. That passport is needed not just to cross borders but to keep everyone safe, at home and abroad.

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southbristolvoice

n NEWS

June, 2022

Injured rescue pup hops into beer campaign FLORA, a one-year old Boston Terrier, arrived at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre in early 2021 after being found as a stray, with a complicated fracture to her right front leg. Her injury meant she was unable to use the leg at all and faced a risk of long-term mobility issues. Bristol ARC launched an appeal to fund surgery on her leg, as it was quite an unusual injury and required a specialist orthopaedic surgeon. Following a successful surgery, Flora underwent a course of physiotherapy so she could learn how to use her leg at last. It was also discovered that Flora had a breed defect meaning that her eyelids didn’t cover her eyes properly. This left her with very prominent eyes that were prone to exposure and damage. Once again a fundraising appeal was launched and she received treatment before she was put up for rehoming. She was eventually adopted by Vikki Carter and her family in Brislington. Vikki said: “Flora has settled in really well, she is enjoying finally being a puppy and has been on lots of adventures. She has made lots of dog friends at the local park and is a very happy social puppy. She makes us laugh every day with her funny personality and quirks. “Her favourite place is on the sofa for cuddles when she is not trying to steal our shoes! After having been through such a lot, I love seeing her thrive and learn new things every day. She is very much loved and we are so glad she is part of our family”. Vikki was so proud of Flora that she entered her into the Dog Day Afternoon competition, launched by local brewery Lost & Grounded. The company was looking for dogs to feature on its new beer can and Flora was one of six dogs chosen. “It’s not often that one of our dogs becomes famous, but if anyone deserves to be recognised for everything they’ve been through, it’s Flora. She’s a very special pup and one that we’ll all remember here at the Rescue Centre for a long time,” said Jodie Hayward, Animal Home Manager at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. Annie Clements, Co-Founder of Lost and Grounded Brewery, said: “We are thrilled that Flora was able to enter our dog beer label competition and after we heard her story we were really touched. She’s certainly a trooper! “The main reason for making this beer was to raise awareness of the welfare and care of our pets and the importance of their company. Thank you, beautiful Flora, you are an absolute superstar!”

Sponsoring Dotty the dog at Bristol ARC

Going potty for Dotty! MATTHEWS estate agents has kindly sponsored Dotty the dog from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, while Dotty continues to look for her forever home. Can you help? Dotty is a really sweet, mature dog who loves the company of her human friends. She is great around people and sociable with other dogs. However, as friendly as she is, Dotty can become a bit stressed and anxious at times. This little lady absolutely loves her walks, but her stamina doesn’t always support this enthusiasm. Therefore, she may need to build up to longer walks gradually over time. Dotty is such a wonderful girl, and will be an excellent companion for anyone who has lots of time to spend with her. Contact Bristol ARC if you’d like to know more.

ELM Legal comes to the rescue FOLLOWING our article in the last issue of South Bristol Voice about the campaign to fund a dog sensory garden at Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, the charity received a very generous donation from ELM Legal Services. Jim Emsley, managing director at the firm, tells us: “Here at ELM we are very dog friendly and have been actively supporting the Bristol Animal Rescue Centre for over a decade. What they do

for the local community is outstanding, and giving animals a second chance is commendable. We are very happy to donate to the dog sensory garden. “I personally have a dog who is losing his sight, which has highlighted to me the importance of sensory experiences for dogs, as he regularly uses his nose to find me and the rest of the pack when out walking. “Dogs in a rescue centre environment

have far fewer opportunities to enjoy sensory experiences like these, so we’re delighted to play a part in giving them the space to do this while they wait for their forever homes”. ELM Legal Services are Bristol-based Will Writing, Lasting Power of Attorney, Probate and Estate Planning specialists. They have been helping clients achieve peace of mind for more than 20 years.

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southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n MAYOR'S VIEW OUR city is bursting with life as we head towards summer. It’s a time of getting together, picnics in parks and walks in our city’s vibrant green spaces. So let’s hope we get the weather to enjoy it! In addition to being places for us to enjoy, our hundreds of green spaces – no matter how big or small – provide vital habitats for nature. We know how important this is. Since 1970, around the world we’ve lost 60% of wild invertebrates and up to 76% of insects. In Bristol, songbird populations, like swifts and starlings, have dropped by more than 96%. That’s why, back in February 2020, we became the first local authority in the country to declare an Ecological Emergency, and we’ve been working with city partners to take action. Our One City Ecological Emergency Strategy includes commitments to manage 30% of Bristol’s land for the benefit of nature, reduce pesticide use by 50% and plant thousands of trees, with more than 9,000 planted last year alone

Park life and some 70,000 planted since 2016. To enhance our habitats, we are cutting grasses less frequently where appropriate, which will support our invertebrates, some of which require long grass over winter in order to complete their life cycle. Similarly, we are looking to reduce the frequency of cutting native hedgerows where this won’t impact on footpaths. This will increase the availability of berries for birds and other wildlife. We are also exploring where we may be able to introduce long grass margins alongside hedges and woodland edges to provide a valuable transition between habitats that supports a diversity of wildlife. Our Meadow Bristol project has been increasing the number of urban meadows in Bristol in recent years, which provide an important food source and a habitat for pollinators. You may have seen the section of College

Green where wildflowers have been added, green roofs in the Bearpit or pockets of longer grass and wildflowers in your local park. We’ve launched a new £200,000 fund to support community action that reduces greenhouse gas emissions or makes changes that benefit wildlife in Bristol. The grants are for community groups or small not-for-profit organisations based and working in Bristol. You can apply from 9 May until 23 June 2022 for grants of up to £5,000 on the Quartet Community Foundation website: www. quartetcf.org.uk. There are lots of competing pressures on our city’s space and we must balance the needs of our communities with those of our nature. Our hundreds of green spaces are the lungs of our city, a space to exercise, socialise and seek sanctuary when the stresses of life get the better of us. It’s important we preserve this while finding ways to better live

The Mayor’s View Each month Bristol mayor Marvin Rees shares his views with South Bristol Voice

alongside nature. We can all play our part. If you have a window box, garden, balcony or verge, consider letting it grow wild or allowing a variety of plants to grow that support pollinators. Avon Wildlife Trust have a great guide to get you started: www.avonwildlifetrust. org.uk/actions/best-plants-beesand-pollinators.

Housing Forums

for Bristol council tenants – get involved!

Evening:

Afternoon:

Monday 20 June 2022, 6–8pm

Wednesday 22 June 2022, 1–3pm

Your opinions help us make decisions! If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and make suggestions about improvements. For Summer 2022, we are hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants.

● Come along and hear some top tips from the Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) on how to reduce your energy bills and save money. You can also find out more about the types of support available to you if you are worried about the effect of the national price hike.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums

● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial-in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

May 2022

southbristolvoice

Get ready for Bristol’s Clean Air Zone

Summer 2022

Bristol is introducing a Clean Air Zone to reduce harmful pollution. Older and more polluting vehicles will be charged to enter the zone. Check your vehicle online and find out how we can help you prepare for the zone.

bristol.gov.uk/cleanairzone

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Buy your copy today at

The Keep Us Moving appeal organisation’s projects running. Motivation is an international will secure vital short-term funding that would preserve development charity and social Motivation and its unique role. enterprise that has provided Over its 30-year history, 21 wheelchairs, training and Motivation has supported resources to disabled children hundreds of thousands of disabled and adults all around the world es children and adults to prictransform for more than thirty years. g from startin more than their lives, and supplied The prolonged effects of the EW the N 120,000 wheelchairs. And Covid-19 pandemic and the loss NB AIRhBVoIuCr!Efor of a significant grant from the UK need for these projects R pSeErand Government due to international appropriate wheelchairs continues to rise. aidWe cutspride haveourselves devastated the professional, on being fully insured, well mannered, Motivation and its organisation’s efficient andincome. competitively priced. groundbreaking design and Meanwhile disabled people Regular Domestic & Commercial Cleaning (weeklyclinical & fortnightly, end of tenancy cleaning, one off teams also develop were left behind and forgotten cleaning, carpet cleaning, communal area cleaning or by request) All cleaning products supplied innovative, high-quality sports during the pandemic, as efforts and included in price. wheelchairs, supplying more than to support wider communities NO50 FEES CONTRACTS! clubsOR around the world, plus during the often t pandemicAll unur you have to pay is the agreed rate when you use our services. 1s Distcoho lar needs. several major international sports u ignored their g re *Subject to availability and terms and conditions ing r fo an ers! cle m* oEE ustKeep federations. cFR The Us Moving appeal www.fullservicecleaning.co.uk The organisation also provides will help Motivation recover and 40 jobs in Bristol and around the continue its vital work with Office: 01173 07572 412 600 globe, as well as creating countless disabled people, who 215 have 815 a right Mobile: employment opportunities and to access the wheelchairs and livelihood sources related to services it provides. projects and programmes. “One in seven of the world’s If you are able, please help population lives with a Motivation ensure their work not disability,” says Motivation Chief only survives but thrives to deliver Executive Amanda Wilkinson. change well beyond these difficult “In the countries where we work, times. Visit motivation.org.uk/ it is estimated to be one in five. keep-us-moving for more details. Yet just 0.5% of all international aid goes to projects focused on disability. This simply isn't enough to fulfil the UN global commitments and realise the rights of disabled to live in a world that fully includes them. “That is why we advocate for change in the sector alongside delivering programmes that focus on sustainable progress that will deliver lasting benefits

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£12*

LESS QUEUING, MORE RECYCLING. From 6 June 22 you’ll need to book to visit Bristol’s Recycling Centres. Booking opens 23 May. You can book as far ahead as two weeks, or up to one hour before your visit.

k, c i u Q le simp eue qu and ee! fr Scan to book bristol.gov.uk/bookrecycling 0117 922 2100

Recycling Centre

Book

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n LOCAL HISTORY

“I found myself picked to play rugby for the first time in my life” We continue our serialisation of Memories of a Bristol Boyhood by Knowle resident John Fletcher as he talks us through some of his sporting achievements during his time with the RAF. It was only playing sport that made service life bearable and even at times enjoyable. As Innsworth camp and its satellites were the ‘home’ of many thousands of young men, the camp sides were almost professional in their playing standards for the major sports of football, rugby and cricket. In these sports I only played at unit level, but even this was of a good standard.

of our rugby match. Of course our opposition were not to know that he was not an England rugby player so they focused all their efforts at stopping him, usually three or four at a time, leaving the rest of our team with plenty of room to play. This enabled our quite poor rugby team to win the match and qualify for the second round of the cup, which proved to be the second and last game of rugby that I ever played in. Needless to say Mike did not repeat his previous mistake and we were

“

Most of our sporty types were selected to play

“

I WAS lucky enough to play most sports to a reasonable standard and I spent many hours in these various pursuits, meeting some very interesting and talented sportsmen. One of the most notable of these sportsmen I met very early on in my posting. He was one of the ‘rebels’ who was due to be demobbed when the increase of six months additional service was announced. His name was Michael Thornhill and besides being a Middlesex County hockey player was a Middlesex 2nd XI cricketer playing many games at Lords. His main sport however was table tennis, in which he represented England, and when I arrived at Innsworth he was involved in the World Championships in Prague and was so successful that he reached the last 16 players in that championship. I only played table tennis against him once and that was in a very restricted NAAFI room with a sub-standard table and with our hut-mates barracking him to put him off his game. The most amusing event which took place was a knock-out intersection rugby competition. As our unit was so small, most of our sporty types were selected to play whatever the sport and I found myself picked to play rugby for the first time in my life. Rather unwisely, Mike turned up in his international royal blue tracksuit with a large gold ‘England’ on the back. In those days track suits were a rarity; even professional footballers did not turn out in them. The only ones I had ever seen were those worn by the services PT instructors, and those were usually drab grey illfitting garments, unlike the tailored one worn by Mike on the occasion

well and truly beaten. Mike was demobbed shortly after that and I did not hear anything further of him until the following winter when he sent me complimentary tickets to the table tennis match between Gloucestershire and Middlesex, played in Cheltenham which was in

easy reach of Innsworth. I enjoyed the match and afterwards he took me ‘back-stage’ to meet the teams which included the Middlesex Rowe twins who were quite celebrity girls at that time. Keeping up the celebrity name dropping, the other international sportsman I met and became friendly with after our RAF life was Bob Challis. Bob was the current Bristol, Gloucestershire and England rugby full back and our paths crossed not on the rugby field, but on the table tennis table when he represented his Record Office section in the camp intersection league. Our paths crossed again very much later in life when we were both members of the Woodspring Golf Club Seniors Section and played many rounds of golf together. Sadly Bob died quite early, in his late sixties. He is however remembered in the golf club as he endowed the ‘Bob Challis Putter’ which the senior members play for annually. I was lucky enough to win the competition in 2002 with a round containing 24 puts and proudly own the engraved tankard in commemoration.

John Fletcher in the 1950s John’s wonderful recollections are sure to jog the memories of some of our readers. We would love to hear similar tales and see photos from the period. Please email these to news@southbristolvoice.co.uk or post them to us South Bristol Voice, 111 Broadfield Road, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX. All items will be safely returned to the sender. We would really love to hear from you!

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n ADVERTISING FEATURE A NEW deli from the team behind The Park Bakery opened at the end of March on the corner of St John’s Lane and Park Avenue in Victoria Park. The Park Deli is a specialised grocery store selling high quality food products including fresh fruit and veg, preserves and store cupboard items, a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and a cured meat and cheese counter. There is also a grab-andgo fridge stocked with dairy, desserts and vegan options, and a semi-skimmed milk refill station. When choosing the product ranges, the team aims for as many of the following criteria as possible: supplied from the South West or Wales; comes in sustainable packaging; and/or comes from innovative or special producers. “We wanted to expand on the offer that we have in the bakery,” said Matt Lean, owner of the two shops. “The bakery provides food for now with takeaway coffees, sandwiches, hot pasties etc, so we have designed the deli to give the people of Victoria Park a quick and easy place to get really great produce for later, such as for

Independent deli opens its doors in Victoria Park

dinners, weekend meals, outside entertaining etc.” He added: “We are just getting going but we have some exciting plans for down the road, including a fresh ready meal offer where customers can pick up a recipe card and then can get all of the veg

and protein for that recipe ready prepped and portioned up so they get the benefit of fresh home cooked food but with most of the hassle taken out.” The response so far from the local community has been fantastic, with Matt saying: “We

feel so lucky to be a part of this community. We have always felt so supported by our lovely bakery customers and everyone who has tried the deli so far has been so enthusiastic and excited.”

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n NEWS FROM BRISTOL SOUTH MP KARIN SMYTH

Working hard to support women IN 2015 I was elected as the Member of Parliament for Bristol South. I am one of 225 female MPs in the UK, who make up 35% of MPs in the House of Commons. I feel privileged to be the MP for Bristol South and to be surrounded by so many fantastic women in Parliament. There are many issues that affect women disproportionately. It’s vital that we have women in politics who can voice these issues and enact change in areas such as health and social care, employment and maternity rights to make their lives better, be this in Parliament or in local councils. As a mother of three boys, it has become clear to me how important it is that we have women role models for everyone, not just other women. We need to ensure that our conversations and education focus on not just the achievements of women, but

also on the importance of male allies. Tackling many of the issues facing women requires men and women to work together to create a society that is fair for all, so we must seek a change in the dominant culture surrounding male behaviour. We have much to learn about the future from women who have led during the pandemic. Studies have shown that companies with women at the top perform better and womenled businesses contribute billions to the economy, but we often see men dominate the public face of debates. Over 90% of Brexit debates were dominated by men, for example. We cannot let this continue to happen. When something will have an equal impact on both men and women it’s imperative that both men and women’s voices are heard. The Labour Party has consistently taken action to

ensure we get the structural change women need. It was a Labour Government that introduced legislation on equal pay, sex discrimination, equalities, the minimum wage and maternity rights. The current Tory Government likes to talk about Levelling Up, but there is no levelling up unless women’s work is at the heart of these plans. So far we have not seen the progress needed from this Tory Government, on issues such as fair pay and good terms and conditions. In 2018 changes made to the Independent Complaints and Grievances Scheme agreed to a new Parliament-wide behaviour code. Improvements have been made, but changes are still needed to root out sexism in the workplace. It’s really important going forward that all parties tackle and discourage any form of sexism,

and encourage more women to make the change and enter politics at both a national level and in local councils. With the next local elections in Bristol coming up in 2024, I’d urge any women in the constituency who are interested in standing to go for it. There may be challenges along the way but being a woman in politics is also hugely rewarding. As a councillor for Bristol City Council you could be a driving force in making our city an even better, fairer and more equal place to live.

n HEALTH NEWS

Looking after your mental health By Skye Taunton, Suicide Prevention UK LOCKDOWN 2020, what’s the first feeling you associate with this? Negative, right? Being a mental health advocate, a mental health first aider (adults and youth), and the recruitment and training lead, for Bristol born charity, Suicide Prevention UK, I wanted to introduce a positive spin, on the impact of lockdown 2020. Many people ask me, “has the demand on your service increased since lockdown?”, to which the answer is yes; but I want to focus on how this is a positive, rather than a negative. The impact lockdown 2020 had on our mental health and wellbeing, is undeniable. People who had not previously suffered with mental health illness, found themselves anxious to leave the house, afraid to close the 2m distance between loved ones,

and a dark cloud of depression looming over, after all our basic human needs and routines were restricted or forbidden. But what this did do, is normalise these feelings. People started openly talking about their mental health, realising others felt the same. We said words like anxiety, diagnosis, depression, suicide; we started to break the stigma. In turn, we validated people’s feelings, because we empathised with them. We started up groups on social media, such as Covid-19 Local Community Support, offering new mums: our unneeded necessities, those who fled domestic abuse: furniture or white goods, those who needed basic food and supplies: shopping delivered to their door, and took our shielding neighbours’ dogs out for walks. These groups still exist, we still use them. That sense of community, of helping others, became and is still higher than

ever before. We had everything we took for granted, stripped away, Sunday lunches with the grandchildren, snotty noses and sticky fingers. As a result, we now appreciate the little things, we long to be outdoors, we take our time in supermarkets and its never felt so good to hug your parents, or playfully push your sibling. We longed to cook dinner for a party of 10, because for so long, it had been just you and yours, within 4 walls. Now when your family and friends leave and say goodbye, we hold them that little bit tighter, for a little bit longer, inhaling their scent, and feeling grateful for the physical contact. We ask our children, “how was school” and we stop to LISTEN, instead of hastily bundling them into the backseat, focussed on the fact we have ‘so much to do’. We made babies! A lot of them! In years to come, I expect our lockdown

2020 babies will be a recorded statistic, 2021’s baby boom! We went to maternity appointments alone, we were told “I’m sorry, something isn’t right”, alone, birthed alone, we broke our hearts over facetime, sat in our cars, alone. We realised how resilient we are, how strong we can be as individuals, and ‘immediate’ family units were reborn. We bought inflatable pools, and had BBQs in the garden, we splashed, and screeched, and we later played board games or had film night, together. Let’s not forget lockdown 2020, let’s remember the positive changes it helped us implement. Did Lockdown rob us, of many things, yes it did, but did it also teach us many things, yes it did. If you are struggling with your mental health, and you need to talk, please call our free national suicide prevention helpline on 0800 689 5652.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS

BRISTOL, we need to change the way we generate power and deliver renewable electricity and you are more likely to make these changes and consent to them if they are informed and involved. So, let’s talk about the city leap project. This is Bristol’s journey towards becoming a zero-carbon, smart energy city. It is based on a partnership between the council and the private sector. This project was set up in 2016 and it has committed Bristol to carbon zero by 2050, It is important we continue this and speed up the process, to see a carbon zero city by 2030 and under the new committee model of governance, we can make this happen. The City Leap Programme provides the financial and strategic planning capacity required to deliver clean energy programmes

at scale. Through partnerships with businesses, community groups, and co- operatives like the Bristol Energy Cooperative we can do this. We can put solar panels on all council homes, build run of river generators in our weirs and rivers. Remove diesel generation and replace them with this battery storage. With Western Power Distribution on our side, we can manage supply to the national grid. Get involved, we want the people of Bristol on board supporting a carbon free future for the city. Go to www. bristolenergy.coop to invest in clean energy for Bristol. They are also looking for community groups or clubs with buildings to install free solar panels to be part of their community benefit scheme.

THE first item is announcing a public meeting at Redcatch Community Centre to hear information and opinion on the new Broadwalk/Redcatch Quarter development. It will be at 7pm on Friday 24 June. Chris will chair the meeting and there will be short presentations from the developers, the group objecting to the scheme and from Gary. Chris will then be inviting questions and the event will wind up with a short statement from all three presenters. Plans have evolved but we are now getting close to when the planning application will be submitted. A big thanks to all who turned out to vote to remove the mayor system. We are trying to persuade parties to work together to try to limit some of the excesses while we see out the remaining two

years before the mayor’s office is abolished. We have concerns that the mayor might try to impose further unfair conditions on the new Jubilee Pool team. He has already demanded a share of profits and has overruled our budget amendment to loan money for energy efficiency, which was supported by a majority of all councillors. The group have applied for local planning levy funds for vital repairs and councillors are likely to approve this. Thanks to those signing the petition to stop the mayor hijacking locally raised funds for Parks improvements. The link to the online petition is here: https://tinyurl.com/bdzzep7k

Gathorne Road buildout Approved and funded long before we were elected, officers have now told us that the requested changes at the junction of Gathorne Road and North Street are now timetabled for delivery in September this year. The purpose of the change is to improve safety by preventing illegal turns into Gathorne Road. Clean Air Zone As we move closer to the implementation of the Clean Air Zone, there will be a series of “roadshows” with the first being held in Aldi Car Park on 6th June from 11am to 3pm. The aim is to allow local residents and businesses to get information about how it will affect them, whether their motor vehicle is compliant, and what grants or loans will be available. Coronation Road development We were disappointed that a residential development with zero

affordable housing to rent was recently given planning approval on Coronation Road. It further emphasises the need for robust planning controls to enable planning committee members to insist that developers contribute to tackling our affordable housing crisis. We currently have more than 16,000 families on the housing waiting list. Gaol Ferry Bridge closure The bridge will close on 6 June for an estimated period of six months. The bridge is in desperate need of a complete repair and maintenance overhaul. We are working with council officers to ensure that signage indicating alternative routes are put in place well in advance of the closure. This is part of a five year plan that will see all the bridges across the New Cut overhauled.

The amount of casework I’m handling has increased in recent months, mostly due to an influx of development proposals in Bedminster, but also issues concerning crime, housing and streetscene. People living in Swiss Drive, Ashton Vale, are annoyed at the start of development work on a highly contentious site. The site is on a narrow strip of land adjacent to a railway embankment and disused railway bridge. It had previously been refused but recently transport objections from the council have been removed, so the development has been able to go ahead. A public planning inquiry was cancelled at very short notice due to this procedural change. The original proposals were submitted in 2015 and were opposed by nearby residents, myself and my then Labour cocouncillor. Our concerns were suitability of the site, likely traffic

impact on South Liberty Lane and scale of development. Since then, the proposals have been refused, appealed against and now granted in this latest twist. Working with residents and liaising with officers, we have hopefully restored access to garages along a private lane and a meeting is due to be held to understand why the development has been consented. There is also a need for the developer, agent and contractors to communicate with local people about the works and the timetable for these. I flag this up as, in my experience, most developers do put more effort into information and awareness before works commence. In my view, the long delay since initial consultation and the sudden start to works (even if exploratory in nature) without any advance communications has been damaging and people are rightly annoyed at finding their concerns have been given little weight.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n NEWS

The Spinal Column

Who’s the secret knitter? OUT and about in Sandy Park the other day, we spotted this cute hand knitted post box topper on a letter box on Kensington Road. But who is the secret knitter in BS4? These adorable knitted teapots, cups and cakes are having a fine old time, but will any more spring up in our area? If you spot some, please take a photo and send it to us at news@southbristolvoice.co.uk, along with where you saw it. We would love to see your photos. And if you know who the knitter is, do tell us!

I HAD a patient come in last week who had to take their car to the garage as the engine warning light was on. Thankfully it was a simple loss connection and the issue was resolved quickly and fairly cheaply. There was the very real possibility that it could have been something more serious. If a warning light starts flashing we all take action quickly, right?! Who wants the issue to get worse risking more costly failure, being without a car for a few weeks and big bills, or worse having to get a new car? The warning light on your car is a bit like pain in your body. Pain is your body’s way of communicating to you that something is not right. Sometimes the pain is very obvious, we cut our finger or go to the gym for the first time in months. We are familiar with it and know that our body will heal quickly and the pain will go in a short period of time. But sometimes the pain keeps coming back or doesn’t go in the first place. There is a quick fix most people try painkillers. Like putting a sticker of the warning light, you can’t see the issue or

June, 2022 flashing light and you can get on with life/driving. The problem is it comes back, and so you try the same approach again. The bizarre thing about a lot of people is, when the light starts flashing on their car they take action - they pay the bills to keep their car running. However, when it comes to pain in their body they just switch off the alarm and ignore it. There is, of course, a big difference between us and a car. Cars don’t have the ability to self heal. Our bodies are incredibly good at self-healing and self-regulating. But, sometimes there is something stopping your body from healing. And it’s for that reason you should get it checked by a professional. The other big difference between us and a car is, although cars are expensive, they are completely replaceable worst comes to worst you can just get another. Unfortunately the same isn’t true of the human body. So, don’t ignore those flashing lights of pain, especially if they keep coming back. Speak to a professional. In my opinion a Chiropractor is a great place to start. Charles Herbert The Chiropractic Centre in Bristol Telephone: 0117 9741 501 www.thechirocentre.co.uk

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

June, 2022

n WHAT’S ON

Theatre, comedy and more for all the family Tues 7 to Weds 8 June. Bristol Old Vic. Little Wimmin. Figs in Wigs are back (again) and this time they’ve got their period (dresses). A live art, feminist ‘adaptation’ of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel Little Women. Wild, irreverent and cosmically comical, this production dismantles the traditional canon to make way for the doomed future of humankind. Weds 8 to Sat 11 June. Bristol Hippodrome. Billionaire Boy. Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country! He has his own sports car, two crocodiles as pets and £100,000 a week pocket money! But what Joe doesn’t have is a friend. So he decides to leave his posh school and start at the local comp. But things don’t go as planned for Joe and life becomes a rollercoaster as he tries to find what money can’t buy! Weds 8 June. Redgrave Theatre. Patrick Kielty: Borderline - A Postcard from the Edge of the Union. Bittersweet, poignant and laugh out loud funny, Borderline is a comedic love letter to the future of our islands from this awardwinning comedian’s personal past.

South Bristol Yoga The Elephant House, 1 Dean Street, BS3 1BG. Tue 6-6.50pm Beginners yoga. 7-8pm Hatha flow. Wed 6.30-7.45pm Pregnancy. Friday 9.30-10.30am Hatha flow. My website is www.southbristolyoga.co.uk The price for all but pregnancy is £10 drop in, £50 for six consecutive classes, and you can book with MoveGB. Pregnancy is £13 drop in and £60 for six consecutive classes. I’m an advanced yoga teacher and I’ve been teaching since 2005 and have over 400hrs of teacher training. Instagram: yogawithraggs Phone: 07977134607 My teaching style is flowing, warming up gently and keeping the balance between effort and rest, and always with a ten minute nourishing deep relaxation to end the class. I’m all about inclusion and adapting poses to suite all. Everyone is welcome!

southbristolvoice Borderline sees Patrick Kielty return to his satirical roots with a personal take on borders, national identity and the future of the Union in a post Brexit landscape. As a Northern Ireland native, who grew up close to the Irish border, this new one man stand up show delves into his homeland’s recent history to try to make sense of what Brexit’s new borders and political upheaval means for our shared identities. Thurs 9 June. Redgrave Theatre. Joanna McNally: The Prosecco Express. Described as “a truly gifted stand up” by The Sunday Times, join Joanne McNally as she revisits her irreverent and critically acclaimed show The Prosecco Express. Due to a relentless ageing process, Joanne is suddenly in her late 30s with no husband, no kids, no pension and no plan. She is full of questions: if she doesn’t birth anything, who will be obligated to watch her die so she doesn’t have to do it alone? Can she start a GoFundMe page to get a golden tomb built for single people to get buried in together, or do we all just get thrown into a mass grave and covered in cat hair? When a man on a dating app identifies as ‘spiritual’, is it safe to assume he has the personality of a spoon? If you do all your drinking in the bath, can you write it off as self-care? “Dark, hilarious, strangely reassuring” [The Independent], Joanne is on

Cleve House School and Preschool are celebrating 85 years of being part of the community. The school would like to invite you to come and join them for a funfilled family morning on Saturday 11 June from 10am. The school will be filled with artisan and craft stalls. There will be refreshments and a bouncy castle. Pupils will be on hand to run tours of the school. Come and leave your mark on our collage and meet the new headteacher. T here will be an auction being held for a signed Bristol City shirt, too. All proceeds will go to the Ukraine Appeal. If you would like to hold a stall to promote your business. telephone the Office Manager on 0117 977218. Cleve House School would love to hear from you.

a mission to solve absolutely nothing. Fri 10 to Sat 11 June. Bristol Old Vic. Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey. Get ready to dance! Rush: A Joyous Jamaican Journey tells the story of Reggae music from the arrival of the Windrush Generation, and how these stories, history and music have evolved through the decades to take the world by storm. Tues 14 to Weds 15 June. Tobacco Factory. Offside. Four women from across the centuries live, breathe, and play football. While each of them face very different obstacles, the possibility that the beautiful game will change their lives – and the world – is tantalisingly close. With punchy storytelling, lyrical poetry and dynamic physicality, Offside places the audiences right on the touchline of the game of a lifetime. Tues 14 to Sat 12 June. Bristol Hippodrome. Mamma Mia! Join us at Mamma Mia! and enjoy the ultimate feel-good factor at the world’s sunniest and most exhilarating smash-hit musical! Sophie’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings her mother face to face with three men from her distant romantic past on the eve of a wedding they’ll never forget. Sat 18 June to Sat 2 July. Bristol Old Vic. Catastrophe Bay. Deep

in the wilds of Cornwall lies the tiny fishing village of Newfrock. The inhabitants are a curious and mischievous gaggle of misfits - a smuggling schoolmistress, the sinful priest, reprobate orphans and singing fishermen - who, despite their differences, abide by a strange patchwork of rituals and beliefs in order to protect the village’s secrets. Thurs 23 to Sat 25 June. Bristol Old Vic. Vanity Fair. Often cited as one of English Literature’s greatest treasures, Vanity Fair is packed full of intrigue, survival and sexual politics which sees the conniving Becky Sharp and sweet-natured Emmy Sedley tumbling their way through the exploitative and hazardous playground of the early nineteenth century upper class. Fri 1 to Thurs 7 July. Acta Theatre. Fixing Things. Join Pick n Mix Theatre for a moving and hilarious collection of stories told through an assortment of broken items. Inspired by the British comic tradition, Fixing Things will leave you in stitches. Set in a repair shop run by three friends, we are introduced to a cast of characters via their various broken belongings and the memories they hold. A tongue-in-cheek and at times poignant production, Fixing Things is a comic caper born right here in Bedminster. Do show your local theatre some love!

Bristol South Taekwando Tuesday and Thursday 18:00 to 19:00hrs St. Paul’s Church Coronation Road Bedminster BS3 1AS Tel: 07951 456407 Email: bristolsouthtkd@hotmail.com

Curvy Girl Yoga Classes

Folks & Bairns Parent and Baby Choir: Mondays 11.30am12.30pm St Michael and All Angel’s Church, Windmill Hill, BS3 4 LW. Bookings: folksandbairns@gmail. com Email: folksandbairns.com

Mondays 6.30-7.30pm The Elephant House BS3 1BG. CGY is designed exclusively for women who are size 16 or more www.curvygirlyoga.co.uk

Feelgood Fitness is a local, friendly, small pilates and wellness studio in Knowle. We offer all ranges of pilates from beginners to intermediate, postnatal, pregnancy, barre fusion, low impact, reformer and large equipment, private sessions and massage. To book go to www.feelgoodfitness.org/ book now 07804 239070

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

n NEWS

Let’s give Bristol the skatepark it deserves AFTER 11 years of neglect, Victoria Park has one shot at revamping its forgotten skatepark. The original park was stage one of a two-stage project, the second of which never happened. Now the park sits virtually unused due to poor design and decaying surface. The cost of an upgraded facility starts at £150,000, for which the group has already raised £130,000 and now has eight weeks to raise the additional £20,000 via the Crowdfunder website: https://www. crowdfunder.co.uk/p/victoria-park-skatepark The first £7,000 raised will be fund matched by Sport England and there are loads of rewards on the fundraiser page as a thank you for donations. Wheeled sports have boomed since the pandemic but sadly Bristol is falling behind other local towns and cities in terms of facilities. This is a great opportunity to breathe new life into a sadly neglected space and provide a much-needed facility for thousands of young people in Bristol. This project is being led by Daniel Higginson: local dad, business owner and skateboarder. Since 2016, he has been campaigning for better skatepark facilities in Bristol. In 2019, he set up the Bristol Skatepark Collective while campaigning to improve Dean Lane skatepark, and last year they successfully installed a new section of Dean Lane. They have also been involved in improvements at Campus Pool, the Bear Pit, and St Georges’s skatepark. Daniel believes that skateparks provide a safe, inclusive space for young people to develop creativity and confidence.

Providing a step up through baking By Sue King, Step and Stone STEP and Stone is a not for profit social enterprise, set up by two Janes, parents of young people with Down’s syndrome. This Community Interest Company delivers employability skills training to young adults with learning disabilities, through the baking of award-winning savoury ‘lavosh’ flatbreads, sold locally at fine food shops and markets. We seek to challenge the public’s perceptions of learning disability by producing a premium, beautifully packaged product. Only 6% of people with a learning disability have a paid job. Step and Stone are striving to buck that trend by supporting our trainees into paid employment when they are ready. We want to show the world just how capable people with a learning disability are! We are currently looking for volunteers to support our trainees at the bakery, based at The Park in Knowle. We offer Level 1 Food Safety and Safeguarding Training, flexible working hours (minimum two hours) and traveling expenses. Experience of working with people with additional needs is useful but overall a belief in inclusion and a positive attitude is all you need (plus a DBS check). To find out more or arrange a visit, please email Sue on sue@stepandstone.co or visit the website www.stepandstone.co

southbristolvoice

May 2022 No. 77

IN SOUTH BRISTOL

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

– 15,000 copies of

this edition

e.co.uk WIDEST CIRCULATION and Windmill Hill Ashton, Ashton Vale www.southbristolvoic Knowle, Totterdown, FREE MONTHLY

IN Bedminster, Southville,

INSIDE Mayoral Referendum: Use your Vote Page 5 The 'Poor Door' Development is Granted Approval Page 9

Creating a safe space for dogs

Centre Bristol Animal Rescue appeal to has launched a new garden to create a dog sensory dogs in for improve conditions its care. all it While the team does feel can to help the animals while comfortable and happy are a they’re there, kennels for them. stressful environment and walks Beyond their daily they need a enrichment activity, space to relax. page 18. Find out more on

Mass Transit Timeline for Bristol is Announced Page 15 Hot cross bun leftover recipe Page 19 Letters Page 23 What's On in Our Area This Month Page 33 Wicked Witch of Knowle Page 37 Puzzles Page 43

INVITATION

Bristol's Use your voice indum on 5 May mayoral referen the polls on Bristol is going to to vote in a Thursday 5 May will determine referendum that Council is to be how Bristol City run in the future. is an The Mayoral Referendum to have a Bristolians opportunity for all would like Bristol say on whether they an elected mayor. to continue to have in 2012, This is a post created George Ferguson previously held by by Marvin Rees. and currently held

mayoral Those opposed to the much power has system say that too of just one been put into the handsin favour of person. However, those say that the the current system system was too previous committee coming into play slow to see changes moving. and keeping our city we hear On the following page, one who is in from two Bristolians, is against, the who favour of, and one mayoral system.

to register to While the deadline you can still apply vote has now passed, 5pm on 26 until for a proxy vote up website for April. Visit the council’s

further information. be open from Polling stations will 5 May and 7am to 10pm on Thursdaypolling station your full details of where voting card, is will be given on your to your house. which will be delivered Continued on page

Yours Let Property Like cjhole.co.uk We Sell and jhole.co.uk Web: Email: Southville@c Tel: 01179634373

We’re online too! Visit us at

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southbristolvoice May 2022 No. 77

www.southbristolvoic e.co.uk FREE MONTHLY IN

Bedminster, Southville,

INSIDE Mayoral Referendum: Use your Vote Page 5

WIDEST CIRCULATION

Knowle, Totterdown,

IN SOUTH BRISTOL

Bristol Animal Rescue has launched a new Centre appeal to create a dog sensory garden to improve conditions for dogs in its care. While the team does can to help the animals all it comfortable and happy feel they’re there, kennels while stressful environment are a for them. Beyond their daily walks and enrichment activity, they need a space to relax. Find out more on page 18.

Page 15

Hot cross bun leftover recipe Page 19 Letters Page 23 What's On in Our Area This Month Page 33

Puzzles Page 43

Use your voice in Bristol's mayoral referendum on 5 May

Bristol is going to the polls on Thursday 5 May to vote in a referendum that will determine how Bristol City Council is to be run in the future. The Mayoral Referendum is an opportunity for all Bristolians to have a say on whether they would like Bristol to continue to have an elected mayor. This is a post created in 2012, previously held by George Ferguson and currently held by Marvin Rees.

Those opposed to the mayoral system say that too much been put into the hands power has person. However, those of just one in favour of the current system say that the previous committee system was too slow to see changes coming into play and keeping our city moving. On the following page, we hear from two Bristolians, one who is in favour of, and one who is against, the mayoral system.

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To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

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While the deadline to register to vote has now passed, you can still apply for a proxy vote up until April. Visit the council’s 5pm on 26 further information. website for Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 5 May and full details of where your is will be given on your polling station which will be delivered voting card, to your house.

Continued on page

ty Like Yours

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INVITATION

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Creating a safe space for dogs

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The 'Poor Door' Development is Granted Approval Page 9

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May 32 2022

n WHAT’S ON Meet HOLLY! The Theatre and She has an angermometer that reacts to everyday events. Entertainment Luvver

June, 2022 11

n NEWS

Find out what happens when it just cant take any more in this great new children's book.

Top picks for June from Jacqui Ham of Acting Holly’sOut theatre group at the mmy, Southville Centre

re was THE sun is shining, nights are later, drinks are colder, it’s Suuummeeer!

So in the words of the very great, sadly late, George Michael: let’s go outside. Outside theatre is one of my absolute favourite things. It is a truly unique and special experience with no two performances ever being the same. It is the most social and relaxed way to see a show. There is nothing I like more than grabbing a blanket, wine (obviously insert your own favourite tipple here), picnic and sitting/lying/standing ready to enjoy the show. My top tip is to take a blanket, rather than a chair, then you will be always seated near the front and if it Drury gets a little cold, later in the Written by Ruth Illustrated by Elizabeth Lewis evening, you can wrap it Written around by you.Ruth Drury Illustrated by Elizabeth Lewis Outdoor shows are great for kids, too, none of the restrictions of a seat or having to sit still, you can always take a wander around if you want to, and the shows tend to be more interactive too with the cast Buy your copy today at often coming amongst the audience. Here are my outdoor picks for June: Excitingly, David Walliam’s Awful Auntie is coming to South Street Playing Fields in Bedminster on 15 June. Adapted for the outdoor stage by Heartbreak Productions, is a truly thrilling tale. Owls, ghosts, chases, escapes, motorcycle rides, and tiddlywinks. Suitable for all the family - bring your chairs, blankets, picnics and settle down for a fun night with this captivating, hilarious and thrilling show. Or if you fancy some Shakespeare, ahead of the Bristol Shakespeare Festival next month, Insane Root are taking over Eastville Swimming Pool and will transport you to a forest in Athens with A Midsummer Night’s Dream from 24 June to 20 August. On Sunday 5 June, Bristol Cathedral will be partnering with charities, communities and organisations to host a free event celebrating the Queen’s jubilee. There will be food, performances and activities on college green. No need to book. So grab your sun cream, make or bring some friends, and enjoy the theatre this month!

NGERMOMETER! www.writtenbyruth.com

The South Bristol Keep Moving!is Charity launches ArtsUsTrail back The Keep Us Moving appeal will secure vital funding for the charity

an urgent fundraising appeal By Fiona Clabon

to the people and communities we Bristol-based charity Motivation empower, long after donor funding has just launched an urgent Saturday 10 and Sunday and project work stops. We need appeal to bridge temporary 11 September willasee the your help to continue this work.” funding the streets ofgap BS3and oncekeep again The Keep Us Moving appeal organisation’s projects running. filled to the brim with will secure vital short-term Motivation is an international creativity and, Bristol artists, funding that would preserve development we need you! charity and social Motivation and its unique role. enterprise that has provided The South Bristol Arts Over its 30-year history, wheelchairs, training and Trail gives the public a Motivation has supported resources disabled children wonderful to opportunity hundreds of thousands of disabled and adults all around the world to meet artists, purchase children and adults to transform for more than artwork thirty years. locally created and their lives, and supplied more than The prolonged effects of the admire the talent within 120,000 wheelchairs. And the Covid-19 pandemic and the loss our local community. From forthe these projects and for of a significant grant theor UK churches to cafés, yourfrom kitchen backneed garden, homes and community appropriate Government due to international venues of Bedminster, Ashton and Southville will bewheelchairs open for onecontinues weekend to rise. aid only.cuts have devastated the Motivation organisation’s income. Whether you’re a painter, performer, printmaker or and poet,its we’d love you groundbreaking design and open Meanwhile disabled peopleArts Trail to be a part of the South Bristol 2022. Applications are now clinical teams also develop were left behind and forgotten to trade, perform or exhibit for the weekend. Find the full details online innovative, high-quality sports during the pandemic, as efforts www.southbristolarts.co.uk wheelchairs, supplying more than to support widerare communities Applications open to all Bristol artists; whether you’re a prolific clubs around the world, during the pandemic often potter or new to Bristol’s creative scene,50we’d love to welcome you toplus join several major international sports ignored needs.19 June. us. Applytheir by Sunday federations. The Keep Us Moving appealwith Fiona Any questions? Get in touch - contactus@southbristolarts. The organisation also provides will co.ukhelp Motivation recover and 40 jobs in Bristol and around the continue its vital work with disabled people, who have a right globe, as well as creating countless employment opportunities and to access the wheelchairs and livelihood sources related to services it provides. projects and programmes. “One in seven of the world’s If you are able, please help population lives with a Motivation their work not disability,” says Motivation Chief Regulatedensure By The SRA (No: 658037) only survives but thrives to deliver Executive Amanda Wilkinson. change well beyond these difficult “In the countries where we work, times. Visit motivation.org.uk/ it is estimated to be one in five. keep-us-moving for more details. Yet just 0.5% of all international aid goes to projects focused on disability. This simply isn't enough to fulfil the UN global commitments and realise the We can help with: rights of disabled to live in a licence issues • Business Licence Issues world that Driving fully includes them. •“That Legalisletter writing • Transport Licence • Money owing letters why we advocate for change in the sector alongside delivering programmes that focus on sustainable progress that will deliver lasting benefits

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June, 2022

n WICKED WITCH

In witch I don’t hug Jesus MANY years ago, I took the Evil Teen to see Katy Perry’s film Part of Me. I was prepared for a few hours of eye rolling but, surprisingly, I loved it and loved her. During the making of this film Katy’s heart was broken by Russell Brand who’d texted wanting a divorce. One scene saw her weeping, before being shot up through a tiny hole onto the stage with a smile fixed in place. How brave she was, I sighed. Eldest boychild had tickets for the Russell Brand gig at Ashton

Gate. This now clashed with a trip to Portugal. He was due to land in Bristol that day but it’s taking about two months to retrieve your luggage, so he gave the tickets to me. I quite like Russell Brand but I’m also on Katy Perry’s team. It was confusing Me and Himself got there early. The last time I went to Ashton Gate, it was raining and rammed for the Spice Girls. This was very different. Just the Lansdown Stand was

occupied with a stage perched on the edge of the precious Robin’s pitch. Brand rocked up early with his kids and a dog. They proceeded to run across the precious pitch in the evening sun – “ahhh, sweet” everyone cried, apart from the groundsmen. It was a solid start, he thanked all the Katy Perry fans who were there under duress and marvelled at the strangeness of performing in a football stadium with crows flying past (his logo is a crow). The gig was OK, the script was a tad weak, the jokes were old and why is swearing so normalised now? The guy sitting next to me laughed constantly, finishing each laugh with an irritating little snort. Brand battled against being filmed on phones throughout his set and to keep us all on side he came into the adoring crowd for hugs and selfies which killed half an hour. I do not do hugs but felt compelled to jump up, push rudely past people to try and get one. Alas, I was too far away.

“It’s like meeting Jesus,” I sighed. A nearby couple agreed and the man stepped forward, opened his arms wide and gave me a huge hug which was awkward as he was definitely not Jesus. Brand came back on stage and announced that he was in fact the second coming and hadn’t the scriptures stated he would arrive wanting selfies and crack cocaine? At the break, I queued up for a beer. My line was fast and I made eye contact with a girl next to me, she had not moved. We tutted about it, then I made the fatal error of letting her jump in front of me. Seriously. She had the biggest most complicated list of drink requests ever invented. I watched as the lines to my sides disappeared. I’d only wanted a simple pint. As the gig finished, Brand incited the roaring crowd for an uprising against our corrupt establishment but not with him as the leader because, of course, he is properly insane. The perfect candidate I think.

n NEWS

The South Bristol Voice is read far and wide WE recently had a message from a reader called Sally who told us just how far her copy of the South Bristol Voice travels. And it turns out our magazine is proving very popular with people who used to live in this area… and just because they’ve since moved away, it doesn’t mean they want to lose touch with what’s going on in their former home. “The Voice is read by all ex-Bristolians,” Sally told us, before explaining that five people

in CHepstow read her copy, before it went to someone in Sedbury, then on to two different addresses in St Albans, before a presumably rather dog-eared copy found its way to a reader in Ealing, London. Sally laughed: “It has quite a journey!” And this got us wondering where is the furthest your copy of the Voice has traveled? Do you have friends or relatives in Australia who like to know what’s going on in Knowle via our pages? Has a former

neighbour since moved to Dubai but demanded being kept abreast of the best news from Brislington? Do let us know! Even better - can you send us a photo of the South Bristol Voice in a far-flung location? Being read beneath the Eiffel Tower, perhaps, or propping up the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Let’s find out just how far our Voice carries! Please email your updates to Jane at news@ southbristolvoice.org.uk. We’d love to hear from you!

southbristolvoice May 2022 No. 77

www.southbristolvoice .co.uk

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FREE MONTHLY IN Bedminster , Southville, Knowle, Totterdown

Bristol Animal Rescue Centre has launched a new appeal to create a dog sensory garden to improve conditions for dogs in its care. While the team does all it can to help the animals feel comfortable and happy while they’re there, kennels are a stressful environment for them. Beyond their daily walks and enrichment activity, they need a space to relax. Find out more on page 18.

Mass Transit Timeline for Bristol is Announced Page 15

Letters Page 23

Wicked Witch of Knowle Page 37 Puzzles Page 43

INVITATI

copies of this edition

and Windmill Hill

Creating a safe space for dogs

Hot cross bun leftover recipe Page 19

What's On in Our Area This Month Page 33

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

SOUTH BRISTOL – 15,000

, Ashton, Ashton Vale

INSIDE Mayoral Referendum: Use your Vote Page 5 The 'Poor Door' Development is Granted Approval Page 9

Use your voice in Bristol's mayoral referendum on 5 May

Bristol is going to the polls on Thursday 5 May to vote in a referendum that will determine how Bristol City Council is to be run in the future. The Mayoral Referendum is opportunity for all Bristolians an to have a say on whether they would like to continue to have an elected Bristol This is a post created in 2012, mayor. previously held by George Ferguson and currently held by Marvin Rees.

Those opposed to the mayoral system say that too much power has been put into the hands of just one person. However, those in favour of the current system say that the previous committee system was too slow to see changes coming into play and keeping our city moving. On the following page, we hear from two Bristolians, one who is in favour of, and one who is against, the mayoral system.

We Sell and Let Property

Tel: 01179634373

Email: Southville@cjhole.c o.uk

While the deadline to register to vote has now passed, you can still apply for a proxy vote up until 5pm on April. Visit the council’s website 26 for further information. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 5 May and full details of where your polling is will be given on your voting station card, which will be delivered to your house.

Continued on page 5

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n LETTERS Residents speak up about Broadwalk concerns - are becoming increasingly irritated at Councillor Hopkins’ continued assertion that the local Labour group opposes the Broadwalk development. There are questions around the number of flats, height of the blocks and the effect on local infrastructure. The party has, however, never opposed the development of the retail sector, which is definitely required. We do wish Councillor Hopkins would get his facts correct. Phil and Carol Gingell OUR Knowle councillors, in their current Knowle Community Party leaflet, seek to suggest that they are alone in taking a pragmatic and positive approach to the latest proposals for developing

From

the Broadwalk Shopping Centre. In truth, by downplaying the very real problems arising from the plans and by misrepresenting those who are raising legitimate concerns (notably members of Knowle Labour Party), these councillors are promoting division and discord. THIS article, overall, is grossly misleading and does nothing to forward a constructive consultation process on these plans. To hamper that process is to do a great disservice to the people of Knowle. Polly Waddilove I AM disappointed about the lack of clear information available regarding the proposed Broadwalk redevelopment. Local groups have found it very difficult to obtain details on what exactly is being proposed. Residents have a right to know exactly what is going on. What is intended? What will change? Concise and clear answers have been singularly lacking so far.

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Our councillors have chosen to interpret this as opposition to any development. This is neither fair nor true. The majority of my friends and acquaintances welcome a new sustainable development but not a development at any price. Local councillors have a duty to represent us fairly. After all, it is why they were elected. We have a right to ask questions and to be fully informed. I don’t like being ‘chivvied’ into consensus. People in Bristol South are fed up to the back teeth with being treated like second class citizens, like the proverbial ‘mushroom’ to be kept in the dark and fed. Diane Jenkins

Response to mayoral referendum At last Bristol has dumped the position of Bristol Mayor with Marvin Rees being kicked into the long grass. Will the prestigious title of Bristol Mayor be missed? Before Bristol voted for the first time to have a Bristol Mayor, which George Ferguson won, we had tribal warfare breaking out on regular occasions at the Council House, with local councillors jockeying for position. So it seemed it might be a good idea to have a Bristol Mayor. In my opinion, what a disaster this has turned out to be. Look at the pantomime of a Bristol Arena on land that was occupied by Bath Road Diesel Depot. A new road bridge leading from the Feeder Road to land with nothing built on it. Graffiti is out of control everywhere in this area. When all the road improvements in front of Temple Meads were carried out, why wasn’t there any consideration given to putting in tram lines for a light railway? It has come across loud and clear that vast amounts of money was going to be pumped into the bus network. I consider now is the time for the West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris to put his head above the parapet, make a good case and push hard to get the Great Western Railway electrified. We should be electrifying the Severn Beach Line from Narroways Junction on the Filton

June, 2022

Bank towards Avonmouth, and onwards towards the Henbury Loop, along with putting back all the taken out track in economical cuts in the 1960s and 1970s. Consideration needs to be given to rebuild all the demolished platforms and station buildings on the Severn Beach Line. Is Dan Norris going to step up to the footplate, and push for much needed rail investment for Bristol and surrounding areas? David Wood

Foodbanks need your support The cost of living is skyrocketing, and more people than ever now seek emergency food parcels. Pressure is mounting on the 2,000 UK foodbanks with unprecedented demand. But imagine a foodbank with 1,000 tins of baked beans but no toilet rolls! Often food banks are inundated with one item but have very little of another and asking donors for specific items is challenging.The situation has usually changed by the time the message has spread. To help change this, BanktheFood is a new charity set up to help foodbanks get what they need, exactly when they need it. Readers can help make a difference by downloading the BanktheFood charity app and following their nearest food bank. The app will then ping their phone a real-time list of urgently needed items when they are at the supermarket, making it easy to add an item or two to their shopping and leave it at the dropoff point when they have finished. The app is free to download and use, and all foodbanks can register. It’s a simple way to make a huge difference. Emma Spring, cofounder and volunteer at BanktheFood

Let us know your views EMAIL US AT:

news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

southbristolvoice

June, 2022

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June, 2022

n NEWS

COMPETITION WINNER

Last month we ran a competition to win a copy of ‘15-Minute STEM: Book 2’ by Emily Hunt. The lucky winner of that book is Graham Steer, pictured with his granddaughter Maddie, aged 6, who won the book for her.

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May 2022

South Bristol Voice June 2022

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