South Bristol Voice Monthly News Magazine for November 2021 by South Bristol Voice

southbristolvoice

November 2021 No. 71

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

WIDEST CIRCULATION IN SOUTH BRISTOL – 15,000 copies of this edition

FREE MONTHLY IN Bedminster, Southville, Knowle, Totterdown, Ashton, Ashton Vale and Windmill Hill

INSIDE

Ashton Gate plans will make parking even worse say residents

Bedminster Green Plot 5 update Page 5 Back in the day in Bristol in the 1950s Page 28-29

By Harry Mottram. The residents of the area around Ashton Gate football ground fear a parking nightmare if the plans to develop land currently occupied by a car park and a retail site are realised. The Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees has ruled out for now more resident parking zones as the received wisdom suggests they tend to push problem parking into the neighbouring streets. On match days the situation has been bad for many years with fans parking their vehicles as close as they can to the Continued on page 3

Sports News Page 31

Western Harbour development could wipe away garden centre The Wicked Witch of Knowle Page 34 What's On Page 40-41

By Harry Mottram. The Riverside Garden Centre remains under threat from one of the options outlined in the Western Harbour development plans. Better known as Cumberland Basin, after consultations including a public meeting chaired by the Mayor Marvin

Rees in which the residents expressed their frustrations and objections to the plans Bristol City Council 'went back to the drawing board.' After that there was a further public consultation in September called Harbour Hopes in which residents were encouraged to

engage positively with the various versions of the redevelopment plans. The options would include the dismantling and replacing of the Plimsoll Swing Bridge built in the 1960s over the River Avon New Cut and the locks. Continued on page 3

Getting ready to buy or sell? See our property feature, pages 16-18

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours Tel: 01179634373

Email: Southville@cjhole.co.uk

Web: cjhole.co.uk

southbristolvoice

Contacts

Ruth Drury Sales director 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Harry Mottramr News Editor 07789 864769 news@southbristolvoice.co.uk Reporter: Lindsey Cole lindsey@southbristolvoice.co.uk Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is November 10

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.

November 2021

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 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

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 Lib Dem, Knowle Email: Cllr.Christopher. Davies@bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07826917714 Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem deputy leader) 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

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

southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure

All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission. South Bristol Media Ltd | Co. no. 11948223 | VAT no. 322 3640 38

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS

Garden centre's appeal as Western Harbour plans revealed Continued from page 1 Plans for a tunnel under the Avon or a bridge further down stream across the Avon have been ditched but one of the options is to build a new bridge to the east of the swing bridge. This would entail a road going through the Riverside Garden Centre along with the potential demolition of some properties on Cumberland Basin This has prompted the garden centre to launch a campaign to save the business. In a statement the garden centre said: " In the previous plans for the area a road was proposed to run right through the garden centre, effectively closing

A view of the current swing bridge which is set to be replaced by a new crossing Riverside down forever. Bristol City Council has now announced that they are ‘going back to the drawing board’, but Riverside

still remains under threat by this development. "The council has commissioned a creative

programme called ‘Harbour Hopes’ to develop a vision for the future of the Western Harbour area. Please help us to remain part of that future." Bristol City Council said: "Western Harbour is a key area in the continuing regeneration of Bristol’s city centre and the floating harbour. It’s a significant gateway to the city, in a historic and landscape setting, and has the potential to grow and thrive." The plans said the Council will create new affordable homes, jobs, better access to the water and new public spaces. For details of the plans visit https://harbourhopes.co.uk/ index.php?contentid=51

Continued from page 1: Ashton Gate development could make the parking situation even worse ground. "It's something of a free for all with cars parked in every available space," said Southville Cllr Christine Townsend, "but

from last month double yellow lines were to be painted on the junctions of some of the worst hit roads which will prevent irresponsible parking."

The plans at Ashton Gate include a new basket ball stadium which would increase demand for parking by visitors to the area

Full Service

CLEANING

prices om g fr startin

£12* NEWNB AIR B IuCr!E pSeEr RhVo

We pride ourselves on being professional, fully insured, well mannered, efficient and competitively priced. Regular Domestic & Commercial Cleaning (weekly & fortnightly, end of tenancy cleaning, one off cleaning, carpet cleaning, communal area cleaning or by request) All cleaning products supplied and included in price. t unur 1s Distcoho lar angmuing for re cle ers! o st u EE* cFR

NO FEES OR CONTRACTS!

All you have to pay is the agreed rate when you use our services. *Subject to availability and terms and conditions

www.fullservicecleaning.co.uk

Office: 01173 215 815

Mobile: 07572 412 600

South Bristol Voice understands that this action was prompted by the emergency services who found they could not always access some roads due to the excessive parking blocking the streets. In June Ashton Gate submitted plans to the authorities for a 4,000-seater sports and convention centre known as the Sporting Quarter. They hope to start work on the project next year with the funds coming from the Longmoor housing development nearby. In previous surveys the majority of residents have said the parking situation in the area of the football ground and in general across the Southville and Bedminster areas needed to be resolved. Bristol City Council has sent a postcard out last month to locals

in the area around the ground to get feedback on the issue of parking. The plans for the developing the area at Ashton Gate would include a multi storey car park although it is believed this would not solve the parking crisis on match days. Ashton Gate’s chairman Martin Griffiths said they had consulted with residents and had scaled back much of the plans such as lowering the height of the blocks of flats and dropping plans for a second hotel. On social media some residents were particularly against the Longmoor estate as it will be built on a green field site and is linked to the development at Ashton Gate. The plans were first submitted in 2018. Email your views to South Bristol Voice.

- MOT Testing - Servicing - Fully up-to-date diagnostic equipment - Air Con servicing MOT & SERVICE CENTRE LTD - Clutch & Gearbox repairs 0117 972 1711 | southwestautos_7@live.co.uk - MOT testing - Servicing - Fully| up-to-date Tyres and wheel alignment diagnostic equipment - Aircon servicing - Clutch - Engine rebuilds & Replacements and gearbox repairs - Tyres and wheel alignment - Welding Engine rebuilds and replacements - Welding - Van Van security systems security systems - And much more & much more

FIND US: The Old Firestation, 14 Bonville Road, BS4 5QF

0117 972 1711 | southwestautos_7@live.co.uk |

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS

Homes planned for 'plot 5' of Bedminster Green By Harry Mottram. Developer company Dandara has submitted a planning application for its ‘plot 5’ Bedminster Green proposal, that forms the centrepiece of the development in Bristol. The scheme proposes 339 new homes - of which 30% would be affordable. The site - owned by Bristol City Council - sits between Malago Road, Whitehouse Lane and Hereford Street, and includes Hereford Street Car Park. Dandara says, 'the plans would see the green reinvigorated as a lively, safe and attractive space at the heart of this community.' The firm also says it has consulted the community earlier in the year and has taken into account their findings along with those of the council. The revisions to the three new buildings and their surrounds include changes to the landscaping, with more green spaces, more existing trees retained, more new trees planted, and an increase in the amount of

'natural meadow.' The Bedminster Green development project involves five sites all close together and will also feature the restoration the River Malago and creating new green spaces - hence the name. However there are still reservations and objections from locals over the height and size of the new builds. On social media several people have aired concerns about the height of the buildings. Anecdotally some on Windmill Hill are not keen on the height as they may block their views of the city. Others have concerns over the Bedminster Green development in general that includes student accommodation - as they feel there are too many students already resulting in noise and litter. Previously the development has had objections from Windmill Hill and Malago Community Planning Group (Wham), BS3 Group, Bristol Civic Society and the Conservation Advisory Panel.

An artist's impression of how the new development might look

One of the outcomes of the development would be the need to move the charity Social Farms & Gardens next to Hereford Street Car Park. Dandara said they are working with the council and charity to relocate the charity nearby and they will pay for the move. They also said they will be contributing cash to the council’s parks team in Victoria Park to improve the skate park. And will chip in around £400k

towards local transport improvements and more than £2M Community Infrastructure Levy. The benefits of the overall development said the Council is a mix of new homes, the restoration of the River Malago, new public spaces along with safer cycling and pedestrian routes. For more details visit https:// www.bristol.gov.uk/planningand-building-regulations/ bedminster-green

Trustpilot

YOUR FIRST CHOICE Emma Vincent and Lisa Pearson

FOR SALES & LETTINGS

3D VIRTUAL TOURS

LANDLORDS WANTED!

MORE SELL YOUR HOME NEW EASILY WITH OUR 3D TECHNOLOGY

Special offer: THREE MONTHS FREE MANAGEMENT*

* Conditions apply

OUR HEAD OFFICE IS ON YOUR Temple Meads DOORSTEP at 148 Wells Road, Totterdown BS4 2AG

Three Lamps junction

Bath Road

GREENWOODS Wells Road

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

Business News In East Street: East St Emporium is a new retail space in Bristol, housing eight independent shops within the emporium building. With over 30 creative makers selling an eclectic mix of products there is something for everyone say the owners. In a statement they said there was: "Jewellery, vintage clothing, handmade children's clothes, plants and terrariums, candles, cards, ceramics, crystals, artwork, wall hangings, ethical clothing, bespoke wooden furniture and accessories, batik, upholstery, vegan beauty, makeup and hair makeovers, handmade dog accessories, bespoke lighting, crotchet and more." They said that sustainability and ethical trading is at the heart of what the makers do and all of them are advocates for ‘Re-imagine - Reuse - Zero Waste’. East St Emporium is in East Street in Bedminster. Bedminster farming: Bristol’s last working farm which is under threat from housing development has won a potential reprieve from the city’s mayor. The unexpected announcement about Yew Tree Farm by Marvin Rees

Chelsea show

Inside the East St Emporium today (September 6) left farmer Catherine Withers “speechless” with joy. The council’s emerging local plan, which allocates land for development, is set to strip Green Belt status from 15 acres of the farm in Bedminster Down, and developers Redrow already have plans for 200 new homes to be built there.

Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family ﬁrm with 25 years experience

25% OF

WITH T F H ADVERTIS

Ms Withers, whose family have worked the farm since the 1960s, has said the development would force them to quit and would destroy a traditional hay meadow, which is home to rare adders and Bristol’s only nesting skylarks. But Mr Rees said he would recommend the 15 acres of farm, which Ms Withers rents, be protected from development in the new local plan. Gin: The Southville Deli have been working with Katie from Bristol based Shipshape Gin and local artist Sophie Long, whose art is often seen around Bristol, to create a 20th anniversary gin for the Southville business. Shipshape and Bristol Fashion was created in Long Ashton in 2018. The ingredients include honey from Flax Bourton while other herbs such as fennel are are grown in Somerset. TV series: Bristol independent production company Wildseed Studios has agreed a deal that will see its hit comedy animation about

The Somerset dairy company Yeo Valley exhibited an organic show garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in September. The Yeo Valley Organic Garden was designed by Tom Massey, and supported by the dairy's Sarah Mead. It was inspired by the firm's organic garden at Blagdon in North Somerset. The Chelsea show garden featured an open perennial meadow brimming with flowering plants and a glade of silver birch. Tom Mead said: “The soil plays a pivotal role in our fight to reverse climate change but the world of microscopic activity under our feet is often overlooked. Carbon is the building block of all life and as gardeners we need to be reminded of the role we play in locking carbon into the soil, where it can help sustain life for generations to come."

secondary school life air on two of the USA's biggest networks. Narrated by Ricky Wilson and starring Dylan Llewellyn, Dodo will be available to view on HBO Max and Cartoon Network in 2022. The 20-episode series, originally commissioned by Sky Kids and produced by Bristol-based Wildseed Studios, is a portrayal the everyday school life of 11 year-old Joe Connolly, voiced by Dylan Llewellyn. The series is based on the film Not The End of the World, by Jack Bennett, which he made while in his final year at the University of the West of England.

★ Senior Citizens Special ★ Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off ★ Patios ★ Fencing ★ Tree Work ★ Turﬁng ★ Hedgecutting ★ Planting (Shrubs etc) ★ Organic manure delivered — Also applied ★ Professional and guarnteed work ★ Brick & Blocklaying

CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122

www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2021

southbristolvoice

News

Bedminster BID has plans for Christmas

Pool update

Bedminster BID have outlined activities for Christmas They released a statement: "Christmas Lights - the BID will as usual pay for lights on North, East and West Street. Our income was significantly reduced however we hope to make a bit of an impact as always. "Gift Guide - we do a regular Christmas gift guide. Would you like to be in it? If so please send a short description of your gift, price and a high res image of 1MB minimum to sophie@weareplaster by Monday 18th October. "Community Choirs - the third element of our Christmas proposals will aim to go large with local community choirs as we think this is in keeping with one of the few positives to emerge from Covid. That of people feeling a stronger part of their local community. "Thursday Nights - we do not have a specific set of activities supporting late opening this year however would encourage traders considering this to aim for the late-night opening on Thursdays in

The campaign to save the Jubilee Pool from closure has moved on with plans to allow the community to take on its running as a Community Asset. This would mean seeing the pool transferred from Bristol City Council to a community group who would take charge of its operation. It would be a voluntary run pool with residents taking on the role of administrators, accountants, supervisors and fund raisers as well as maintaining the pool. Under current plans Bristol City Council is set to cease funding the pool in preference to investing in Bristol South Pool which would see a 'basic refurbishment which would provide some upgrades to machinery and general cosmetic and condition improvements to customer facing areas.' The consultation ends on November 7. If you would like this consultation as a paper copy or in another language, braille, audio, large print, easy English, BSL video or CD rom or plain text, please contact us by emailing sport@bristol.gov.uk or calling 0117 92 23320.

Christmas lights in Park Street. Pic: Visit Bristol December. We can support this in the Gift Guide. "Lantern Parade - as ever the BID is a lead sponsor with the Lantern Parade. More details of how businesses can actively interact with the parade will follow soon. "Briefly, we are delighted to have secured significant additional funding from West of England

Combined Authority of nearly £400K. "Most of this will be committed to test the East Street Vision. However, approximately £135K is reserved for culture and events. "We will be circulating more information soon and seeking ideas and feedback around how to best use this over the next 18 months."

Advertising Feature

Shop local at Tobacco Factory this Christmas

Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 9am-4pm

10am-2.30pm every Sunday

Five Acre Farm Shop Tobacco Factory North Street BS3 1TF

Tobacco Factory Raleigh Road BS3 1TF

fiveacre.farm @fiveacrefarmer

tobaccofactory.com @tobaccofactorymarket

With our much loved Sunday Market and ever growing gift range in Five Acre Farm Shop, Tobacco Factory is the perfect destination to shop for local, sustainable gifts this Christmas. In Five Acre Farm Shop you’ll find everything you’ll need for the festivities, with fresh seasonal produce from our own farm in Backwell, foodie gifts, books, puzzles, homewares, toiletries, chocolate, craft beer, wine and gin, as well as cards from Bristol artists. Make Sunday your shopping day and you’ll also be able to browse our Sunday Market stalls, with local makers and producers selling lots of lovely gifts. We also have Ali and Joe’s Christmas Tree Sale back with us this year om Saturday 4th, Sunday 5th, Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th December. Five Acre Farm Shop is open Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 9am-4pm Tobacco Factory Sunday Market is open 10am-2.30pm every week

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

Media news in brief Influencer: A Knowle resident has become a DIY social media sensation during the pandemic writes Lindsey Cole. Since acquiring 111,000 TikTok followers, Emma Downer has been able to quit her job and is now a full time DIY educator. “There was a huge uptake in DIY in the last year. Five years ago when I was renovating my house, there was no one like me doing DIY online. I think it’s important to see yourself,” she said. The Wells Road resident said DIY is a source of empowerment. “If you can do it yourself it makes you realise that you’re capable of doing anything.” Emma wants DIY to be accessible and affordable to everyone and provides hacks like using an old sock to paint hard to reach areas. “I want people from every income to be able to do things for themselves. That’s why I provide my content for free.” She said. The DIY educator makes her income through influencer marketing where she talks about products. She is now looking for

Ruth Drury

Bristol based businesses to partner with her outreach programmes. “I want to make longer form, more detailed content for Youtube in the local community.” Emma’s videos have been well received. “Someone messaged and said ‘I just picked up a drill for the first time this morning because of you.’ I want people to feel inspired.” She said. If you’d like to learn DIY or partner with Emma’s outreach programmes you can find her at: DIYwithEmma on all social media platforms. Book launch: A children’s author from Knowle is launching her new book on Halloween. Ruth Drury’s latest book, The

Rattos of Cheesington Village, is inspired by her pet rats. “We got our rats during lockdown and I noticed just how loving and individual each one is. Rats have a negative reputation so I hope to show people how fantastic rats can be.You see them working together as a team. They’re great.” The author said. The Rattos of Cheeseington Village is the first book of a series about a village of rats living in Yorkshire. ‘The series will focus on various characters from the village covering issues and events which occur in a child’s life. I don’t shy away from tricky topics including learning disabilities and even bereavement and hope that each story is loved as much as the first one.”

This will be the author’s fourth book that she’s written since lockdown. She said: “I began writing as a way to help my daughter manage the rollercoaster of emotions she felt when away from friends, hearing people are dying and missing school. She simply had ‘Too Many Pants’ hence the title of the first book.” Ruth has also written a special short Ratto Halloween story for the book launch. “Everyone’s welcome to come. I’ll be dressed up. There will be stories, Halloween treats and I timed it so you can pop in before you go trick or treatin’.” The book launch is free and will be held at Amba House in Totterdown on 31st October from 4-6pm. To see more of Ruth’s work please visit: www.writtenbyruth. com.

Until 3 rd January BOOK NOW longleat.co.uk To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2021

southbristolvoice

News

Peace comes with Turkish music, inspiring talks and food By Lindsey Cole. Bridges for Communities were finally able to launch their first Peace Feast event in partnership with Knowle’s Redcatch Community Garden, after a challenging eighteen months. Peace Feast has been running for seven years all over Bristol. It’s an event that brings people together from different cultures and faiths for food and friendship. Sixty people attended the event and enjoyed a meal combining British and Indian cuisines, which was organically and locally sourced, as they listened to Turkish live music and inspiring talks. “One of our goals is to help refugees in the area to feel at home and to integrate. We invited Afghans and Syrians who have settled in Knowle. "It was a lovely relaxed evening.” Dan Green, Peace Feast UK Coordinator said. Mike Cardwell, who runs Redcatch Community Garden,

Street, 62 North

260-2

The Peace Feast was held in The Redcatch Community Garden shared his story of how his mother was a political refugee from Italy and how his family settled in Bristol. “I want this garden to be a space where everyone feels welcome,” he said. Imam Qazi, from the Bristol Jamia Mosque, Totterdown told

BS3 1JA

Zero Waste

everyone who was new to the area that they are all welcome at the mosque. “This was much more than an amazing meal. It was a fantastic collaboration between Bridges for Communities and Redcatch Community Garden, bringing people together and welcoming

Store

253 North Street, BS

3 1JN

newcomers. I was delighted to be a part of it.” Peace Feast plans to run regular monthly events across Bristol. If you’re interested in attending have a look at their website: www. bridgesforcommunities.com

S5 9HT

h Road, B

Churc 259-261

2001–2021 - Celebrating 20 years of good food! A delicious feast of organic, locally sourced, artisan, and ethically responsible products. Including a whole range of plastic-free choices. Click and collect from www.southvilledeli.com

OPEN 7 days a week

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

INVITATION

CJ Hole Southville invite you to accept our offer of a free sales or lettings valuation. To arrange an appointment, please telephone the office or call in personally. If you have instructed another agent on a sole agency and/or sole selling rights basis, the terms of those instructions must be considered to avoid a possible liability to pay two commissions.

MEDIUM SOUTH WEST

268 North Street, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JA

t: 0117 963 4373 southville@cjhole.co.uk

OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am - 5pm

SOUTH WEST

MEDIUM AGENCY ESTATE AGENCY YEAR 2011

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

With 17 offices covering Bristol, Gloucester and Somerset

The Multi Award Winning Agent

November 2021

southbristolvoice

News

Young man from Bedminster died after assault Police have reported that a young man from Bedminster has died following an incident in Hayes Close, Lawrence Hill, in the Old Market area of Bristol. The force said in a statement: "We’re at the scene of an assault in Bristol in which a young man has tragically lost his life. "Officers had a number of calls to the Hayes Close area of Lawrence Hill at about 6.20pm on Thursday 14 October. "A young man believed to be in his late teens was found with significant injuries. Sadly he couldn’t be saved and died at the scene. A male has now been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. "While his identity is not yet formally confirmed, his immediate family are aware and our hearts go out to them in their loss. They will now be supported by speciallytrained officers. "A cordon is in place and roads in the area are closed to enable officers to carry out investigations at the scene."

If you can help in any way please call 101 and give the reference 5221241131

The Bristol Post reported that a 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and required hospital treatment. They also said that two more teenagers were arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Police reported the victim to be 18 years of age. South Bristol Voice understand that he was from Bedminster. Bristol 24/7 reported that police carried out door-to-door enquiries amid a meticulous search of the area. Bristol Commander, Superintendent Mark Runacres said: "This is a tragedy and we feel deeply for the family in their loss. I ask anyone who was in the area

of Hayes Close and Hassell Drive between 6pm and 7pm Thursday 14 October to get in touch if they saw anything which could help. "We also want to hear from you if you have any dashcam, CCTV or phone footage of the area between those times. "If you can help in any way please call 101 and give the reference 5221241131. "We understand that some people may not want to speak directly to us, but the independent charity Crimestoppers will take information 100 per cent anonymously. They never tell us who you are, just what you know, so please call them on 0800 555 111."

Police: scam alert Anyone selling items online is being warned of a scam which sees buyers pretending to have transferred money but making off without paying for the goods. Police are aware of several incidents in recent months where a seller has advertised something for sale and the buyer has agreed to pay for it when picking it up. When the suspect(s) attend the address to collect the item, victims are then asked to put their details into a fake banking app on the buyer’s phone. It will show the transfer is complete, as per the picture above, but when the victim checks their bank account, the money hasn’t gone in. When the seller has queried it, the buyer has told them it may take a couple of hours for the money to go through, however no transfer ever happens. The seller has then unsuccessfully tried to chase the buyer for payment via phone and online. Incidents have recently reported to police in Bristol.

Scholarships and Bursaries available

Life changing

We can help with up to 100% of the fees and other costs.

Apply now for a place in our Sixth Form from September 2022 Call Luisa Bueno on 0117 933 9630 The only co-educational school in Bristol to offer A levels and the IB Diploma in the Sixth Form

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Afrika Eye 2021 in November

FESTIVAL CURTAIN RAISER Saturday 6th November at 11.15am and 2.45pm. POP UP TEEPEE SCREENING & STORYTELLING For families and children, a chance to watch KIRIKOU AND THE SORCERESS, a much-loved screen retelling of a favourite West African fairy tale plus a storytelling workshop. Venue: Specially erected teepee, Felix Road Adventure Playground, BS5 0JW. Monday 8th November at 7.30pm (Dir: Sarah Gavron, UK, 2019, 1hr 33mins, 12A). BAFTA winning film stars Bukky Bakroy as the teenager trying to hold onto her dreams. With a Q&A to follow, led by Rising Arts. Venue:

Easton Community Centre, Kilburn Street, BS5 6AW. 7pm. THE LAST SHELTER Wednesday 10th November at 7pm and THE MOVEMENT. A double bill of documentaries dealing with migration. With a Q&A. Venue: Cube Microplex, Dove Street South, Bristol, BS2 8NQ. Thursday 11th November at 7.30pm DIFFICULT LOVE and BEYOND: THERE’S ALWAYS A BLACK ISSUE, DEAR Kiki and Queer Vision curate a double bill of documentaries dealing with black and queer experience. Venue: Cube Microplex, Dove Street South, Bristol, BS2 8NQ Tickets: double bill, £14 (student, £7)

St Philip’s St Philip’s Marsh Nursery School Marsh Nursery School

s’pilihP tS

niinkat are onment

woN

Monday 15th November at 7.30pm. MANE Krampelhuber’s follow-up to her acclaimed 100% DAKAR tracks the battles of two young Senegalese women. The Old Picture House, Winton Street, Totterdown, BS4 2BT WATERSHED WEEKEND Friday 12th November ELDER’S CORNER Inspired by his extensive record collection, Siji Awoyinka travels back to Nigeria. GUITAR AND GIMBRI - LIFTING SPIRITS Legendary guitarist Justin Adams teams up with gimbri player Mohammed Errebbaa, a master of Morocco’s gnawa music. Saturday 13th November

every day. Find out what Afrika Eye has been doing during lockdown, with the very first screening of our home-grown documentary ‘Rooted in Bristol’ with stories from people of African heritage, working their plots on the allotments of Bristol. As well as our annual outing at Watershed, we’ll be screening at Easton Community Centre, The Curzon, Clevedon, The Cube and The Old Picture House, Totterdown, plus a pop-up event for families at Felix Road Adventure Playground with a movie and storytelling. Please come and be part of our first live festival since 2019. We can’t wait to meet up with old friends and welcome new faces. Annie Menter, Festival Director

THIS IS NOT A BURIAL, IT’S A RESURRECTION A village is threatened with flooding and relocation. IT MUST MAKE PEACE The rich and vibrant culture of Mali. Sunday 14th November THE BRONZE MEN OF CAMEROON Bronze casting in western Cameroon. ROOTED IN BRISTOL Celebrating the contribution people of African heritage. LINGUI – THE SACRED BONDS A riveting and meditative drama. Events in the Watershed programme, can also be booked by phoning 0117 927 5100, or visiting www.watershed.co.uk or visiting The Watershed.

Now taking children from 2 years old

• 15 hours free early education for all http://stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk 3-4 year-olds

Now taking children from 2 years old

0117 families) 9776171 (30 hours free for eligible

(30 hours free for eligible families)

a E eerf sruoh 51 •

• 15 hours free Early Education for eligible 2 year-olds

• 15 hours free early education for eligible 15 hours free Early Education for all 3-4 year 2 year-olds

Paying places available

(30 hours free for eligible families) Paying places available 15 hours free Early Education for eligible 2 yea Breakfast and After School Club Paying places available

0117 977 6171 Albert Crescent, Bristol BS2 0SU www.stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk

Albert Crescent, Bristol BS2 0SU www.stphilipsmarshnursery.co.uk 0117 977 6171

All families are welcome to attend our Stay & Play sessions, held twice a week

CHRISTMAS SHOP

100’S OF ITEMS 49p OR LESS COME AND HAVE A BROWSE WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

MATCHRITE BARGAINS

POH

MAKE THIS CHRISTMAS THE MOST AFFORDABLE EVER PRESENTS 49P TO £20, DECORATIONS FROM 49P

HOP

C treblA pts.www

We are so excited. After nearly two years of waiting and hoping, Afrika Eye is back screening to live audiences once again from 8th – 16th November, with a programme of films, telling stories of lives lived, lives imagined and all the bits in between. This year we’re delighted to announce new partnerships with Sheba Soul, Rising Arts, Kiki, Queer Vision, The Curzon Clevedon and Felix Road Adventure Playground, with remarkable films both new and from the archives. As always there’ll be post screening discussions, Q&A’s and conversations. Afrika Eye will celebrate filmmakers who are bringing important issues to our attention as well as the extraordinary achievements that ordinary people across Africa and around the world are making

Welcomes 2-5 years St Philip’schildren Marsh Nursery School (2-5 yea old

ni erac dna noitacude gnidna tstuO tnemnorivne gnitalumits dna efas a

E eerf sruoh 51 • sruoh 03(• 15 hours free Early Education for all 3-4 year-olds aP

November 2021

southbristolvoice

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Property Feature - buying and selling in South Bristol ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Autumn – A perfect time to turn over a new leaf! Contact us today to find your new home Greenwoods Property Centre is an independent family owned estate agent which therefore benefits from being able to provide unbiased and impartial advice for our customers. Having an expansive understanding of our local markets is paramount to our success and because of this we are proud to be able to provide our clients with the highest possible levels of customer service. Your trust and confidence in us is our top priority. That’s why all our staff are trained, accredited and qualified to carry out their specific roles. It’s why we value our local community, and maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the areas we serve. And it's why we put honesty and integrity at the heart of everything we do. Our philosophy is simple. We listen carefully to your requirements. We provide a personal and enthusiastic service, doing our utmost to meet your unique needs. And we keep you informed at all stages, providing a friendly, approachable and professional service. As a buyer: Buying a home is one of the most important decisions you can make, and we understand that every buyer is different. So our team will be on hand to help you through every part of the process, focussing on your individual requirements, to ensure that your buying journey is a positive one from start to finish.

Left to Right – Lisa (Senior Lettings Negotiator), Phil (Sales Manager), Chloe (Sales Negotiator) & Ryan (Sales Negotiator)

As a seller: When you choose to sell your property through Greenwoods, our objective is clear – to find you the right buyer at the best price. With years of property experience, prominent main road office locations and a thorough understanding of evolving technology, we are well placed to promote your home far and wide. So if you are looking to sell a property, contact us today for a free, no obligation market appraisal. There is still an unprecedented high demand for property of all styles and size, please contact the team to find out how much your property has increased in the current market. Telephone: 01179 777672 Email: knowle@greenwoodsproperty.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Property Feature - buying and selling in South Bristol ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Housing market is busier than ever - and we're here to help

ith over 30 years of experience between us, we’re Matthew and James Sheedy, partners and brothers at the helm of this wonderful independent estate agent at the heart of South Bristol. By focussing on the individual needs of our clients and going above and beyond to give them a great buying, selling or renting experience, we see customers and clients returning time and again as their needs change and they journey through life. Our fabulous team are South Bristol born and bred, because we believe local knowledge is vital when it comes to understanding our ‘patch’ and giving our customers the insider scoop they really want when they’re moving to a new community. And speaking of community, ours is pretty important to us too. We champion local independent businesses and offer sponsorship

James (left) and Matthew Sheedy, owners of Matthews to sports teams wherever we can, fairer than that. because to us supporting the Competitive rates community that is so integral to we You’ll receive a high-quality sales do, is an incredibly important thing. and marketing service, including No sale, no fee photography and advertising If we don’t sell your property, we materials, for less than many high won’t charge you a fee. You can’t say street estate agents will charge.

m atthews estates.co.uk

Free valuation Whether you wish to sell or let your property, we’ll offer a free valuation, informing you of the price and current market conditions, with NO obligation to proceed. Property sales details We’ll produce full colour digital marketing materials to assist in the sale of your property. These will include room sizes, location, photos, floor plans, street mapping, and you will be asked for your approval before distribution. Distinctive boards In order to give you property the best chance, we recommend placing a board in a prominent position outside. We have designed highly distinctive ‘For Sale’ and ’To Let’ boards to help gain interest and attract that sale. Advertising We use a tried and tested advertising strategy to market your property to the highest standard.

Matthews Estates is a local family business with nearly 30 years of experience in the south Bristol area. ARE YOU THINKING OF MOVING THIS YEAR? Call for a FREE VALUATION or pop into our office and speak to our local, friendly staff.

m atthews estates.co.uk

298 Wells Road, Knowle Bristol BS4 2QG 0117 971 1417 www.matthewsestates.co.uk enquiries@matthewsestates.co.uk

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

November 2021 November, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

southbristolvoice

15 21

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Climate change advertising feature

Choose local produce, avoid supply chain issues and help our planet

hortages of HGV drivers; stories of animals being culled and food going to waste; threats of pigs-in-blankets disappearing from the shelves at Christmas. These kinds of headlines are increasingly familiar and expose our reliance on complicated supply chains to deliver the food we eat every day. However, such short-term issues pale in comparison to the negative impacts long supply chains have on the climate. As world leaders gather in Glasgow for the COP26 climate change conference, we want to shout about one solution that is right in front of our eyes (or just down the road). Local food. Short supply chains avoid many of the issues behind those headlines. Choosing to eat locally also minimises transportation, packaging and waste: substantial contributors to climate change. The UK simultaneously imports and exports millions of tonnes of milk each year. Some food travels hundreds of thousands of miles to get packaged, only to end up on the shelves in the area it was produced. These are two examples

which highlight just how nonsensical the global food system has become. Here in the South West, we are blessed with so many amazing producers, and delicious, local food. Check out your local farmers’ market; pop into a greengrocers; buy from a local veg box scheme! You won’t just be helping out a local business-owner, you’ll be helping to do your bit in fighting the climate crisis, too. Visit our website to find out more about the climate benefits of local food and how some of our favourite local producers are fighting the climate crisis; just a few miles from where you are sat reading this. The Community Farm delivers climatefriendly food in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding area. Our veg boxes are local, seasonal and organic and we work hard to minimise packaging and food waste. Visit thecommunityfarm.co.uk

BRISTOL

We can help you manage your money BECOME THE BEST and map out your financial future, whatever your life’s ambitions. VERSION OF YOURSELF We specialise in wealth protection and

preservation, goal-based financial planning Join us at our Whole School Open Morning

Friday 19th November

and estate planning.

For more information on how we can help you to plan for a secure financial future, please contact: Andrew Barr | Wealth Planner

07384 460767 | 0800 0514659

Scan the QR code to meet Che

andrew.barr@successionwealth.co.uk successionwealth.co.uk

Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol BS1 2NT

Succession Wealth is a trading style of Succession Wealth Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 588378 Please note, The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate advice on Estate Planning.

Richard 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk 23/08/2021 14:07 Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789Call 864769 oronemail news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Got a story or anyAdvert other inquiry? SGL023-381 Succession Wealth Bristol - South Bristol Voice - 180x120mm AW.indd 1

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS

Concern over £24m 'black hole' in schools budget as funding for special needs teaching increased By Local Democracy Reporter. Bristol City Council is so worried about a growing multi-million black hole in its schools budget that it has written to the Government asking for help. The council expects it will have spent at least £24million more than it has received from the Department for Education to run schools by the end of March next year. The forecast deficit includes £10million accrued in 2020/21, and is largely due to spending more than was provided for children with special educational needs. The shocking state of the council’s education budget was presented to a meeting of school leaders on Tuesday (September 28), where the authority’s finance director Denise Murray was clear about her concerns. Ms Murray told members of

the Bristol Schools Forum the financial position was “worrying” and there was a risk of “further increases” in the deficit. She said she had written to the Department for Education to tell them of the local authority’s concerns, and appeared to say the council has asked for extra funding. “We’ve sort of set out our stall,” she said. “We’ve explained some of the rationale for why we believe we are seeing the increases [in spending].” She said the council had “made representations” about funding, with “reference to some of the authorities that have had their legacy deficits supported”. But she warned the council’s ability to “attract additional funding” would almost certainly hinge on whether it can show it can “stabilise” its education

spending. The council is working on a plan to “turn the [spending] curve”, which the Government has said it expects to see by the end of 2022/23, she said. But the plan relies on a programme launched by the council in March of last year to transform the way Bristol schools educate children with special educational needs. And the council is still waiting to “truly assess” whether the Education Transformation Programme, which includes work required by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission to improve its services for children with special educational needs and disabilites (SEND), will eventually “stabilise” education spending, she said. “What I think we need to be clearer on is the milestones by when we think we will start to see

some of the improvements in the financial position as well as the outcomes,” she said. The three-year, £6.1million Education Transformation Programme made “good” progress last year, despite delays as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a report to the meeting. “Significant improvements in the quality of key education and skills data and management information products” were achieved and “eleven transformational projects” were started, according to the report. These projects included the creation of 190 extra special school places by September 2022, with 80 added so far, and work to improve the statutory process around education, health and care plans (EHCPs) for SEND Continued on page 17

St Katherine’s School - Sixth Form OPEN EVENING: WEDNESDAY 17 NOVEMBER RESERVE YOUR PLACE stkaths.org.uk/sixth-form With a consistent track record of strong examination results St Katherine’s Sixth Form promotes a love of learning and independent enquiry. • Flexible learning options to suit every student • A broad range of academic and vocational courses • Learning Pathways offering transferable business skills alongside other studies • 21st century teaching and learning with Google classroom and Chromebooks • Exemplary pastoral care • Learning Mentors • Small class sizes for a personalised learning experience • Stimulating enrichment opportunities

PEOPLE • COMMUNITY • EXCELLENCE

For more information call 01275 373737 or email papworthh@skdrive.org St Katherine’s School, Ham Green BS20 0HU

St Katherine’s School

Tel: 01275 373737 Email: stkaths@skdrive.org

@stkathsschool

www.stkaths.org.uk

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS Continued from page 16 children. But Simon Holmes, headteacher at St Philip’s Marsh Nursery School and Cashmore Early Years Centre in Barton Hill, said: “There does appear to be some kind of disconnect between the lived experience on the ground for families and what’s happening in schools and what appears to be said about progress that’s being made. “We know many families who are still really struggling to get heard with this SEND process, with their EHCPs, with the timing. We have families going to solicitors now because they can’t get what they’re needing.” Ms Murray agreed with Mr Holmes that it was vital for the council to listen to families and incorporate any necessary changes into its transformation programme. “This should be deemed to be a live document,” she said. “Whilst we’ve agreed a certain set of actions, there should be a

feedback loop, and if the feedback indicates we need to change the actions in order to have an appropriate level of impact on outcome then that needs to be part of that process.” The council received just over £403million from the Government to run schools in 2021/22. Early indications are that the ‘dedicated schools grant’ will be around four per cent higher next year, but the final figures will not be available until the Autumn budget is announced on October 27. • The city has 129 infant, junior and primary schools, 17 secondary schools, and three learning centres. There is also the City of Bristol College. UWE and Bristol University. • Special educational needs (SEN) teachers work with children and young people who have special educational needs or disabilities. • The MP for Stratford on Avon Nadhim Zahawi was appointed Secretary of State for Education in September.

ARC's Christmas appeal A Bristol charity that cares for animals has appealed to the public to help fund their work this Christmas. Bristol ARC has been caring for the city’s pets and wildlife since 1887, helping, healing and homing over 14,000 vulnerable animals each year. They are the longest-standing and largest local animal charity, and although we are proud to be affiliated with the RSPCA, ARC receive no automatic funding from it. The appeal is aimed at helping their Animal Rescue Centre. In a statement they said: "Each year we care for over 14,000 vulnerable animals that need a helping hand. "This year we’ve taken in more animals with behavioural issues than ever before, cared for ‘lockdown pets’ that people struggled to look after, and offered free and discounted veterinary support in the community to ensure no animal gets left behind. "Your donation this Christmas

n HOME CARE & FUNDING

Local not-for-profit organisation improving household wellness SOMERSET based Social Enterprise, Lendology CIC, have today released their Social Impact Report for 2020/21. This Report, compiled by The Financial Inclusion Centre, analyses how the work of the organisation has impacted its clients’ financial, property and household wellbeing. Lendology CIC work in partnership with Bristol City Council to support eligible homeowners with funding essential home repairs via the council’s subsidised loan scheme. Since 2005, over £3 million has been lent for home repairs, improvements, adaptations or energy efficiency measures. Unlike most lenders, Lendology has no shareholders which means they are able to put impact before profit. Their small team assess each homeowner on their unique circumstances, using people to make decisions for people, not computers or credit scoring. The Report found that 58% of borrowers had few alternative borrowing options due to their financial circumstances. Lendology are able to work with a wide range of homeowners, from those who are employed, self-employed, or in receipt of benefits, retired, or have a poor credit history.

will help continue this vital work and give animals in our care a second chance at a happy life. "Your donation counts Every penny raised will go towards the furry, feathered and four-legged residents in our care." For details about ARC and to volunteer to help visit https:// www.bristolarc.org.uk/about/

Tom Jackson, Commercial Lead

We Care & Repair

5 Hide Market, Waterloo Road, Bristol BS2 0BH 0300 323 0700 www.wecr.org.uk info@wecr.org.uk Ellie Lister Service Delivery Manager

Lendology

www.lendology.org.uk, loans@lendology.org.uk, and 01823 461099

The Report also highlights the stark issues with housing with 1 in 5 households across the South West being classed as ‘non-decent’. With the rising energy costs and the need for investment in homes to reduce carbon emissions, local councils are keen to raise awareness of the little known loan scheme it funds. Emma Lower, CEO at Lendology CIC, said: “Every day, we are taking calls from homeowners who live in cold, damp, dangerous or hard to heat homes or people who are looking to adapt their homes to suit their needs, or in-

vest in renewable technology. 2020/21 has been extraordinarily busy for us, and despite the pandemic, we continue to find ways to help more people, because for us it is too important not to”. For more information on the work of Lendology CIC or to apply for a loan, visit www. lendology.org.uk or call 01823 461099. If you are thinking about investing in home repairs or adaptations, call We Care Home Improvements for advice on 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

a family run business for over 50 years

One of the largest stockists of carpet, vinyl, Laminate and LVT in the South West • Fitting service available with expert fitters • Removal & Disposal of existing carpets • Delivery service available Charges apply*

Free measuring & planning service FREE NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES Free Sample Service

Please ask one of our experienced team for details

Chapel Lane, Fishponds Trading Estate, Bristol BS5 7EY Tel:(0117) 951 7717 Email: bristolcarpets@gmail.com Web: www.bristolcarpet.co.uk

Up to

£1,000 OFF

Did you know Bristol City Council fund a loan scheme for homeowners? *

the cost of works to your home**

Working in partnership with We Care Home Improvements and Lendology CIC, the partnership takes the stress out of funding and finding contractors for home repairs, improvements or adaptations. If you are a homeowner, of any age, and need to make essential repairs to your home, call us today for more information. Works covered under the scheme include roof repair, electrical and plumbing work, damp and structural remedies, heating installations or replacement, amongst other works.

For an informal chat about the loan scheme and eligibility, call Lendology on 01823 461099, email loans@lendology.org.uk or visit www.lendology.org.uk

For more information on the services provided by We Care Home Improvements, call 0300 323 0700 or visit www.wecr.org.uk

*Subject to eligibility. **A maximum reduction of £1,000 from an approved loan over £2,000. For loans £2,000 or less, the reduction will be 50% of the loan value. Budget is limited and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. Typical Example (4% fixed interest rate, Typical 4.2% APR). Borrow £5,000 over 60 months. £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Lendology CIC is a trading name of Wessex Resolutions C.I.C.: a community interest company limited by guarantee, registered in England, company number 4512225. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit regulated activities.

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n LETTERS

Tenant experiences delays; and open letter about uni students Problem with Guinness Housing I hope to use your publication to highlight a problem my partner and I have had this year with our landlord in supported accommodation for over 55s with care needs. I should say the problem has been solved and compensation paid by Guinness housing and don't wish to sound churlish. However, the stress we have been put through and the failure to hold their contractor, MD Group, to any standards of workmanship and reliability are problems I hope will finally be addressed. The problem started in March when our shower screen, only fitted 3 years ago after a protracted process, sprung a leak. MD brought the wrong part and fitted it anyway. This damaged tiles and the floor leaving the shower unusable. Measurements were taken for a new part, which turned out to be wrong, the surveyor and the maintenance manager made phone calls, I made two official

complaints and still nothing happened. A new floor was finally fitted in July, but we had to wait for another two measurements to be taken before the screen was finally fitted in September. All this I was able to use the shower in a guest suite, but with ongoing problems in the assisted bathroom for all tenants to use my partner had very few chances for anything other than a strip wash for 5 months. I should say the housing manager has been supportive, but it seems to be out of her hands. Karyn Smith did actually send a letter to Guinness Partnership and that was what finally resolved the problem. It is just so frustrating that it took so much stress and that I did think of asking the press and my MP for support earlier. Rob McSporran, Wells Rd, Bristol, This issue has been resolved but Guinness Housing state on their website: When we make a mistake we will always apologise, aim to put

CLEVE HOUSE SCHOOL & LITTLE CLEVE NURSERY

it right and do things better so we don’t make the same mistake again. We learn from our mistakes and use your feedback to improve our services. For more details of their complaints procedure visit: https:// www.guinnesspartnership.com/ contact-us/make-a-complaint/ expect-make-complaint/ Open Letter to Bristol Landlords from the Student Union We are writing to you following the announcement of the third lockdown, and the Government releasing guidance that students should stay put at least until mid-February, meaning that many students, including your tenants, are unable to return to Bristol. We are asking private landlords and PBSA providers to offer the following:  For students who are unable to return to their residence due to the lockdown, a significant rent reduction or rent cancellation for the period of lockdown. For students who do not want to return to Bristol due to the

effects of Covid, a no-penalty contract release. For students who are losing out financially due to the lockdown and remain in residence, a significant rent reduction or a rent holiday, where rent payments are postponed, for the duration of lockdown. We recognise that this is a large financial ask, but as with the previous lockdowns, students have been bearing the brunt of the crisis. Any measures which you can take as providers of accommodation would go a long way to alleviate the financial pressures which many students are facing. Landlords, please consider the schemes the Government has put in place to help businesses and property owners, including mortgage holidays, which might give you the financial flexibility to make these changes. University of Bristol Students’ Union Officer Team This letter has been edited for space reasons. Email letters to news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Loft Boarding & Insulation

For boys and girls aged 2-11 years

Where learning is so much fun www.useyourloftspace.co.uk USE YOUR LOFT SPACE is the reliable, affordable and trusted local company for all your loft boarding, and loft insulation requirements

Come and see us at 254 Wells Road, Bristol BS4 2PN | 0117 9777 218

FUNDED PLACES AVAILABLE www.clevehouseschool.co.uk www.clevehouseschool.co.uk

0117 2980810 INFO@USEYOURLOFTSPACE.CO.UK

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

KARIN SMYTH, MP for Bristol South

Focus on the menopause

he menopause is a serious, physical condition which will impact half of the UK population at some point in their lives, yet remains grossly misunderstood. Women have suffered without adequate support for the menopause for decades, and for too long it has been overlooked in areas from healthcare, to the workplace and in policy. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is an effective medication to improve women’s health and wellbeing during this period in their lives, yet in England comes with a whopping price tag. Whilst HRT is free to prescribe in Wales and Scotland, in England many women are priced out of this medication. Women are also frequently misdiagnosed by medical professionals, with the symptoms of menopause often being mistaken for depression or anxiety. Women end up on antidepressants instead of the

correct treatments simply because medical professions are not adequately trained to spot the symptoms of menopause. A recent survey on menopause support revealed the shocking truth about training in medical schools. A staggering 41% of UK universities do not have compulsory menopause education on the curriculum. For a condition that affects half the population, it’s astounding that it is completely overlooked when training the people we all turn to for help, leading to wrong

diagnoses and continued suffering for women. This level of misunderstanding and lack of support is also found in the workplace, where women are left to suffer in silence because they are too scared or ashamed to speak to their employers. Research by Wellbeing of Women shows that around 900,000 women have quit their jobs due to the menopause. Without workplace support for women, symptoms of the menopause can lead to decreased productivity, a loss of confidence, taking time off work and leaving the workforce altogether. Simple changes in the workplace such as flexible working hours, relaxed uniform policies and adaptations to the working environment could all have a huge difference on the effects of the menopause on women’s health and wellbeing, and support women to continue feeling comfortable and confident in work.

In June, Carolyn Harris, MP for Swansea East, was selected in the Private Members Bill Ballot. She chose to focus her Bill on the menopause, in particular asking the NHS in England to follow the lead set by the Welsh Labour Government in Wales and exempt HRT from NHS prescription charges. I am proud to support this campaign, and have been keenly following the Bill’s progressions through Parliament, with the second reading due at the end of October. The shame and stigma that has faced women for decades around menopause cannot go on, we need to change the narrative around menopause and give women a voice. Education is key to achieving a change in attitude, starting in the school curriculum, making teaching the menopause compulsory on the curriculum in medical schools and creating public health messaging that aims to break the stigma and get people talking about menopause.

Shop our collection for AW21 online and in store with Scandinavian inspired homewares, cosy throws, candles, children’s gifts, jewellery and more. monpote.co.uk

217A North Street, Bristol, BS3 1JJ To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Learning new skills for the future

WHEN I was growing up my grandfather and uncles were miners, my aunt was a factory worker, and my uncle worked on the railways – and that was that. In those days many people spent their whole life working in the same job, for the same employer. It was how it was. Over the years that’s changed. I had a range of roles before becoming metro mayor: a child protection officer, an environment minister and a scaffolder’s assistant. For children growing up today it will be even more varied, so it is important they always have the opportunity to reskill and retrain. A child born today will have seven or eight different careers in their lifetime, and two-thirds of children entering primary school this year will ultimately work in completely new types of jobs that simply don’t exist yet! Skills and training are an exciting part of my metro mayor role. Recently I opened two fantastic new facilities with funding from the West of England Combined Authority that I lead: the Brunel Centre on the SGS WISE Campus in Stoke Gifford and the City of Bristol College Advanced Construction Skills Centre. The Brunel Centre is a particularly stunning £7 million building, with a great name. I know the next generation of world leading engineers, scientists, technicians and creatives are raring to

Dan Norris with Owen at the City of Bristol College Advanced Construction Skills Centre

go there – I could sense everyone’s enthusiasm as I cut the ribbon. Meanwhile in Bristol I met Owen, who is doing a carpentry course, learning what’s needed to build a better future – literally! He is getting equipped with skills to build new homes and retrofit existing ones in our cities, towns and villages. But it’s not just about young people. I met MakeUK, the manufacturers organisation, as they launched their plan for skills. They explained to me how the average age of people working in manufacturing is over 50 – but they also need to reskill as new manufacturing techniques and machinery emerge. Lifelong learning matters. Here in the West of England we’re at the forefront of innovation, and we need to keep it that way. Our brilliant locally-based scientists, researchers and engineers hold so many of keys to meeting important challenges of tomorrow.

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice That includes those working in highly skilled unionised jobs at Airbus in Filton who I met earlier this month and whom Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer gave a shout-out to in his recent conference speech. We have just passed a significant landmark on skills funding. We have a special scheme here in the West of England to stop money raised by local companies via the “apprenticeship levy” disappearing up the M4 and being banked by the government. Instead we are keeping it local, with bigger firms passing their unspent levy money to smaller local ones. We’ve just passed £1 million – a great collective effort. So thanks a million to all involved!

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

MARVIN REES, Mayor of Bristol

Making ends meet

hroughout my time in office, we have prioritised building a strong and resilient economy for Bristol. We’ve worked to attract investment that brings good sustainable jobs to our city. And I’m proud that we are recognised as a Living Wage City by the Living Wage Foundation, making sure that workers across our city take home a wage they can support themselves on. We’re looking to accelerate our progress on this – with an ambition to double the number of Living Wage accredited employers by the end of 2023. The resilience we have worked to build in to our economy was crucial in keeping people afloat during the pandemic. However, we knew that the impact the virus would have on jobs and pay would not be felt evenly and would exacerbate existing inequalities. Working across the city, we’ve stepped in to help people who have lost income over the past two years. We distributed over £100 million of pandemic support to businesses to protect jobs and livelihoods. Over the last school year, we stepped up and provided 105,997 vouchers to support families entitled to free school meals. And we currently help 35,795 households with their bills through our Council Tax Reduction Scheme – one

of the only local authorities in the country to fully fund council tax for the poorest households. It is clear, however, that our work isn’t done. As I write, rising energy prices are not only putting pressure on people’s bank balances, they’re threatening jobs as businesses struggle to meet their overheads and supply chains across industries are interrupted. To

make matters worse, the government have chosen to end the £20 uplift in Universal Credit, which has been helping around 17,000 working families in Bristol make ends meet. I know that for many families, a cut in income like this will hurt. It’s the wrong move, at the wrong time. Nonetheless, as a city we stand ready to help. In addition to the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, there is lots of information on the Bristol City Council website about the financial support that is available for households who may be struggling to make ends meet. And our Local Crisis and Prevention Fund can help with emergency payments if you can’t afford basics like food, electricity or gas. Visit www.bristol.gov.uk/ benefits-financial-help for more information. I pay tribute also to the network of city partners and voluntary and community groups who are already stepping up to help people experiencing hardship over the coming months. We’ve seen that spirit of generosity shine through time and time again in our city over the past two years. It’s what makes Bristol a City of Hope, and it’s what will see our city through the testing times to come.

Investing in council homes

Help shape our 30-year plan for council homes We know we have a housing crisis in Bristol, and we want to be part of finding solutions to that crisis. As a public sector landlord, the money we receive from our council housing rents and service charges is kept in a separate account called our Housing Revenue Account – HRA. This money is exclusively for building and maintaining council housing. We can borrow money to build more homes, or to refurbish or regenerate existing homes.

What do you think should be our priority for spending and raising the money that we need? How do we get the right balance between investing in the standard of our existing homes, investing to reduce carbon emissions, and investing to build new homes? We need your view to help shape the plan for delivering council homes across our city.

● Investing in council homes – we need your view www.bristolhousingconversation.co.uk To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2021

n HEALTH

southbristolvoice

What causes back pain?

Desk jobs are a strain on the joints so exercise daily I had the pleasure of watching Bristol beat Bath in the rugby last week. A great game and a classic ‘game of two halves’. It’s always a special atmosphere in Ashton Gate - especially when we win. I love the rugby, but as a Chiropractor my mind does start racing with some of the hits the players receive. There aren’t many sports where the body takes such a beating. Often people assume I mostly help people with sports injuries. Truth be told, aside from a massive tackle, you’re more likely to damage your spine through lack of movement. We see sports injuries, but we see a lot more desk and life related injuries. For example, the average Brit sits for 52 hours per week. Add that to the time asleep and that’s a 65% of your week with minimal movement. All your joints need regular movement to keep them healthy and well ‘oiled’. Going to the gym 3x a week is important, but it's also important

to do little and often movements too. Set yourself the challenge of moving all the joints in your body through their full range of movement every day. Try a mini daily yoga workout. Take regular breaks from your desk. Even break into a sweat. Next month we’ll go through the main posture tips. Charles Herbert The Chiropractic Centre in Bristol Telephone: 0117 9741 501 www.thechirocentre.co.uk

This Back Awareness Month we are looking at what causes back pain? The answer is simple. Stress! Certain things might jump to your mind when you think of stress, however there are many different types of stress. Let’s break them down into the 3 main types. Physical Stress This is all about how you look after your body physically. Poor posture and bad lifting techniques are obvious culprits. Lack of exercise and stretching, repetitive movements, accidents and falls, carrying your kids - the list goes on. The biggest piece of advice I have for this type of stress is, keep movement varied and frequent. There are ideal postures we should adopt, however the worst position is the one you spent most of your time in. If you’ve been working from home during the pandemic then the amount you need to move, compared to commuting and walking around an office, is dramatically reduced. Try and move each joint in your body through its full range of movement at least twice per day. Emotional Stress We are all affected by this one but rarely do people link it to back pain. The truth is, worrying about a deadline, running around after your kids, making ends meet, having a

23 never ending to do list all affect you physically and cause pain. A classic example, how many times have you heard someone say they’ve had a stressful day at work and now they have a headache? Although not an obvious cause, emotional stress probably causes or is involved in 80-90% of the patients we see! What can you do? There’s a huge amount of advice about stress management available. What my patients find most helpful are taking time for yourself (‘me’ time), doing a daily gratitude journal, walks in nature and meditation. Different things work for different people, but it’s important to find what works for you. Chemical Stress This is probably the least obvious one. It’s our environment and what we put into our body. We all know ‘we are what we eat’ and it’s true. Our cells are changing constantly, millions of cells per minute. So if you put crap in, you get crap out. A simple one to solve, eat clean home cooked food that’s as close as possible to how nature provides it (more raw, less processed). If you have any questions about managing your back pain, please feel free to get in contact on 01179741501. We would love to help you get back on track.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Your local councillors Gary Hopkins & Chris Davies Lib Dem councillors Knowle

riends of Jubilee Pool had a very successful public meeting on 5th Oct at Redcatch Community Centre with around 100 attending and the room being awash with positive energy. The Friends, with our support, told the story of what the “Save Jubilee Pool” campaign had achieved so far, with the pool reopening after COVID closure and now with a record number of members. Questions, suggestions and offers of help flowed in. Supporting, assisting and advising the current operators Parkwood, until the Mayor can get the paperwork organised to pass the pool across to community ownership. The Friends are in touch with groups that have successfully achieved community ownership around the country and feelers are being put out for more members of the management

group and long term partners. The previous council hatchet job 'consultation', on the future of Jubilee, was changed after the local campaign to acceptance of the possibility of an asset transfer, and now the council are 'consulting' again on sports and swimming facilities across Bristol. The promised new pool at Speedwell has disappeared and there is now a suggestion of spending on only one pool at either Easton, Bristol South or Horfield. There will be no financial support for Jubilee from the council. What we do need however is for the council not to foul things up before Jubilee gets into safe hands, and to offer fair terms on the asset transfer. We want as many people as possible to fill in the council “survey” and join in the campaign so they cannot ignore Jubilee.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS ELECTRICS • DOORS • PLUMBING • SKIRTING BOARDS

Lisa Stone & Ed Plowden Green councillors Windmill Hill

e want to pay tribute to the many people that are active in the community – everyone that has written to us trying to help improve the local area is a part of the solution. We are working hard to make your suggestions heard by the Mayor, or to influence what the Council does locally. There are so many local groups and volunteers that it’s impossible to mention them all – the scout groups, parent teacher associations, local sports clubs like Broad Plain Rugby Club - and the people that just get on with it on their own. But here are a few: TRESA has been a source of information and strength for many years, lately making sure that everyone has information about planned local developments such as the proposals on 122 Bath Road and in Temple Quay – always up to date.

WHaM has some dedicated volunteers concerned about Bedminster Green in particular, and some of these self-taught local people now probably know as much about planning law as anyone. We are now considering how we might work together to propose traffic-calming in Windmill Hill Victoria Park Action Group continue to work to maintain and improve the local park – volunteers are always needed to help run events, gardening or fundraising . Meetings are the first Monday of the month. The Friends of Jubilee Pool have repeatedly fought to keep the Pool open. Now the only hope is a community takeover – it can work! If you agree then tell the Council by responding to the Consultation before 7th November (search for “Bristol Leisure Investment”).

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE• FASCIAS INTERIOR•&DOORS EXTERIOR•PAINTING ELECTRICS PLUMBING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING • SKIRTING BOARDS LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS ELECTRICS • DOORS • PLUMBING • SKIRTING BOARDS

Free Quotations Free Quotations

RELIABLE, FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE RELIABLE, FRIENDLY SERVICE ContactFAST, Jeremy Abbott on Contact Jeremy Abbott on

0117 0117 9099095989 07584 428056 5989 // 07584 428056 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

abbottpropertymaintenance@hotmail.com abbottpropertymaintenance@hotmail.com

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING FENCING • PATIOS • LANDSCAPING LOG STORES • GUTTERING • FASCIAS You may not be bothered about our beloved community asset. YouRELIABLE, might not careFRIENDLY if it turns into a high riseELECTRICS monstrosity. • DOORS • PLUMBING FAST, SERVICE But, think of future generations. Object for them. Make a stand. BOARDS Bristol City Contact CouncilJeremy are currently their strategy Abbott onrunning a consultation •onSKIRTING

YOU FreeMIGHT Quotations NOT USE JUBILEE POOL & GYM and investment proposal for the city’s leisure facilities. In all of the options presented, JUBILEE POOL WILL CLOSE!

0117 909 5989 / 07584 428056

Free Quotations

It is massively important that we all complete the consulatation, tell the council why we, as a strong community, need to keep Jubilee Pool. It is vital for our wellbeing both mentally and physically. If it shuts the majority will stop swimming, which will add to the health inequalities and life expectancy gap between us and more affluent areas. RELIABLE, FAST, FRIENDLY SERVICE

abbottpropertymaintenance@hotmail.com

Contact Jeremy Abbott on or complete on-line at: Consultation closes 7/11/21. Paper copies are available at the pool https://bristol.citizenspace.com/public-health/leisure-facilities-investment-strategy/

0117 909 5989 / 07584 428056

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

KEEP IN TOUCH

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Your local councillors Tessa Fitzjohn Green councillor Bedminster

reening (up) Bedminster, increasing street trees (and slowing traffic and including E car chargers), improving parks with forest school play provision, bark parks and poo bins and planting to increase bio diversity whilst creating Friends Groups. Tree Officer John Atkinson and I checked out various sites including Foxcote Road, Ashton Drive and Ashton Vale playing fields. Grove Marsh Park has excellent play equipment but is next to Winterstoke Road which is noisy and polluting. By thickening hedges with native species we could improve noise levels and pollution, and provide a forest school area as a resource for schools. Waste and Recycling are the big issues of 21 century. Not only filling up our oceans but also our streets. I’d like to

hear what you think we should do about this? Check out my facebook page for ideas. Residents in Hebron Road have a difficult situation, double yellow lines down one side, and cars and bins on the other pavement. I read a handwritten note, politely asking a van to move, as it would have been hard to get out of the house. Christmas is on its way, and I recommend ACTA for pantomime and fun. Young people check out Bedminster Youth Theatre and coming soon a well being climate café. Not to mention the Silver Social Coffee mornings at Ashton Vale Youth Club Julie 07920441176. The Green Team are out and about this month delivering newsletters, do say hello and tell us what you think.

Tony Dyer & Christine Townsend Green councillors Southville

ormer Green Southville Councillors Charlie Bolton and Stephen Clarke have both been made Honorary Aldermen of the City and County of Bristol. The award honours their outstanding service to the city. Charlie became Bristol’s first ever Green councillor when he was elected back in 2006 and was later joined in the council chamber by Steve. Congratulations to both of them. The council have now published the results of their consultation on possible road changes to Greville Road. The council will not now be implementing changes to individual streets and instead will soon be publishing their Liveable Neighbourhoods Strategy, that will focus on entire neighbourhoods rather than pitching individual streets against each other. We strongly believe that local residents have made the case that Southville

should be near the top of the list for a Liveable Neighbourhood pilot. We have received a lot of casework about Anti Social Behaviour especially linked to street drinking. Tony met with the newly elected Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford to discuss this and other police matters, and both of us have also met with the local beat officers to look at how we can address this and other similar problems raised with us by residents and local businesses. The engagement process regarding potential development around the Cumberland Basin area is ongoing. Our stance remains that any development must be supportive of existing businesses and the views of residents must be incorporated into whatever plans are developed and taken forward, including protecting our existing green spaces.

Only £895 for a fully fitted electric door.

APPROVED

Gotta get a Garolla.

BRISTOL MARCH FOR THE CLIMATE SATURDAY 6TH NOVEMBER

Assemble at 12 noon March at 1pm Rally at 3pm College Green, Bristol. FIND OUT MORE

BRISTOL@COP26COALITION.ORG

NOT FOR FLY POSTING

NOW ONLY

£895

WAS £1,354 INC VAT

WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH EVERY DOOR: FREE EXPERT MEASURING & FITTING TWO REMOTE CONTROLS

Offer valid for openings up to 2.6m wide & inc: 2 remote controls, 55mm white slats, internal manual override.

ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR

Garolla garage doors are strong and solidly built. They’re made to measure in our own UK factories. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically taking up only 8 inches inside your garage. Our expert installers will fit your new door and take away the old one so there’s no mess. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely Free.

GOTTA GET A GAROLLA

CALL US TODAY

01454 740 034 MOBILE

07537 149 128 www.garolla.co.uk

Printed by Solo Press.

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

Is your child short sighted? Did you know you can do things to help?

November 2021

“One day I’ll explore the Amazon” Slow their short-sightedness not their ambition

At Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, we offer a programme which is clinically proven to slow down short-sightedness progression in children by 59% on average.1† This reduces your child’s dependency on glasses, can provide thinner lenses, and decreases the likelihood of certain eye health conditions later in life. We are passionate about this opportunity to protect children’s future eye health. Our myopia management clinics are backed with evidence and research, so you can be reassured that you and your child will have the best care.

182a Wells Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2AL bristol@lynnefernandes.co.uk 0117 977 6330

Call the practice to book an assessment or visit our website www.lynnefernandes.co.uk/questions-about-myopia to find out more.

75 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AS bristolgr@lynnefernandes.co.uk 0117 942 6843

† Over 3 years, compared to a single vision 1 day lens. 1. Chamberlain P, et al. Optom Vis Sci. 2019;96:556–567

124a High Street, Nailsea BS48 1AH nailsea@lynnefernandes.co.uk 01275 854946

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

INICALLY CL

PRO EN V

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n NEWS

Tackling fuel poverty Energy services company Ameresco is working with Bristol City Council to roll out solar panels and energy-saving measures to low-income households facing high energy bills. They are responsible for designing, supplying and installing these panels and other measures. The council was awarded funding under the Green Home Grant to deliver such measures to low-income households living in low EPC-rated accommodation. Their Energy Service developed the Bright Green Homes Project for this. This project aims to provide eligible homes with up to £10,000 of energysaving measures for free, including solar panels and other measures. Empowering Bristolians Many people have already successfully applied for this funding, with Ameresco typically installing ten solar panels per household. These can save £68 a month and protect against energy bill hikes. They can provide some much-needed stability and greater financial freedom, helping the city recover from the Covid-19 pandemic in a way that is both fair and inclusive. Such measures also support Bristol's transition to net zero. Working responsibly, with communities Ameresco has taken care to ensure that their solar panels are installed by Bristol-based contractors and suppliers to best support the local economy and provide secure local job opportunities.

Pass the parcel is back in BS3 Christmas gift donation scheme Pass the Parcel will be back in BS3 this winter. Last year, Pass the Parcel shared over 400 gift bundles with vulnerable individuals, families and children across BS3. This was achieved with the help of some brilliant volunteers, support from the community and enthusiasm from local businesses. We know this year may be just as difficult, if not more so for some people, so our gift donation project is back! Organised by members of Action Greater Bedminster, St Paul’s Church and the BS3 Covid Response Group, this winter we are coming together once again, to reach as many of those in need as we can and to ensure they get a little something special this Christmas. Pass the Parcel will be launching on Monday 1 November, when our Online Gift List will be released featuring items from some gorgeous local independent retailers. The Gift List will feature suitable products and presents that are available to purchase from local retailers. Once purchased, we will

Looking for a solicitor? Keep it local Barcan+Kirby is your local law firm, with offices in Bedminster, Bishopston, Kingswood, Clifton, Thornbury and central Bristol.

ensure that your gift is given to the appropriate recipient to open at Christmas. You will be able to purchase gifts online and in store, and using our local resources means that all money spent goes back into our community. So go on, share a little Christmas sparkle with others this winter. You can find the Gift List on www.actiongreaterbedminster. org.uk If you’re a retailer and would like to be involved or find out more, get in touch with Fiona - hello@ actiongreaterbedminster.org.uk

We’re specialists in:

+ + + + + Our friendly legal experts are + always on hand to provide + practical, common sense + advice at a fair price. + + If you’re looking for help with + any of the services here, we’re + + the people to talk to.

Buying and Selling Family Law Divorce + Separation Wills, Trusts and Probate Powers of Attorney Dispute Resolution Employment Corporate + Commercial Commercial Property Medical Negligence Personal Injury Court of Protection Notary

You have our best – every time

barcankirby.co.uk

0117 905 7088

hello@barcankirby.co.uk

@barcankirby

barcankirby

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

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

Local History

Mixed hockey, listening to the BBC Light Programme and a working life as a clerk before National Service We continue our serialisation of Memories of a Bristol Boyhood by Knowle resident John Fletcher as he enters the world of work

y 18th birthday came on 3rd September 1950 and with holidays and the cricket season over, and having passed a medical Grade A for National Service, I entered a sort of limbo time waiting for a date to join the Royal Airforce. It was at this time that I took up with my first real girlfriend. Gillian Mary was a member of our 15 Plus Club but with her family she had moved right across the city to Westbury-on-Trym (if my only niece in Penzance wonders where her name Gillian Mary comes from I think it was from this source as my sister got on well with Gill). Gill was a good- looking petite girl who laughed a lot and was good company. Our courtship was quite low key; we went to the cinema quite often, now progressing to the more prestigious town centre cinemas. As Gill’s home was very close to the wide open spaces of Durdham Downs, we did quite a lot of walking, returning to Gill’s home where her mother provided a variety of home-made refreshments. I got on well with Gill’s parents. Her mother was very homely and her father, who was not in good health and practically house-bound, was an avid follower of sport and we talked on this subject very easily. In fact if I called for Gill and she was not ready to go out I would talk to her father and she would get quite impatient until we concluded our sports round-up. Home entertainment was very limited, basically only the radio and gramophone. BBC radio consisted of only three stations; the Home Service (featured topics of interest, news, countryside, Woman’s Hour etc.), the Light Programme (had

popular music, comedy, serials and other middle of the road entertainment) and the third programme which catered for the more high-brow listener, with classical music, Brains Trust etc.). Apart from a few of the light programme items there was little to attract the growing teenage audience. Original gramophones played one 12-inch waxed disc at a time, at 90 rpm. Advances were made and a smaller disc played at 45 rpm, but this still only produced time for one song or piece of music at a time. Eventually an extended play (EP) came on the market and 33 rpm was introduced and a little spindle was invented to hold six or so records and release them one at a time to provide continuous music. Immediately after WW2 the entertainment industry was dominated by productions from the USA. Although we in Britain produced some very good low-budget films, and also the successful Ealing comedies, Hollywood produced all the glamorous, highly expensive blockbusters, particularly musicals. The same applied to the music industry. These were the days of the big band ’swing’ orchestras which often comprised of 30 to 40 musicians, more in keeping with classical music, with the band leader actually conducting with a baton. These bands also employed specialist musicians to make arrangements of tunes specifically to suit the style of each individual band. In this era before TV, video, tape recorders or anything of an advanced nature, teenagers relied

St Martin’s Mixed Hockey Club almost completely on records and spent most of their pocket money on the Top Ten singles as detailed in the New Musical Express, a publication aimed at the teenage market. As with films, the record industry was dominated by the USA, and foremost of the singers were two male and two female artists. The first ranked male singer was Bing Crosby. He was a mature man and represented the wholesome image that the Middle Americans valued. He was portrayed as a good- natured family man and sang (or ‘crooned’ as it was called) in a relaxed, melodic style. “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” was the sort of ballad that suited his style. By contrast, Frank Sinatra was a younger, lean and hungry looking man with a hint of Italian temperament in his make-up. His music tended to be punchier than Crosby’s and his lifestyle was reported to be much more adventurous. Later he became known as the leader of “The Rat Pack” with rumours of excessive use of alcohol and drugs etc. Perhaps his most famous recording is “I Did It My Way”, an almost mandatory offering for any karaoke event. Similarly the two female singers had very differing styles. Doris Day was presented as the clean-living girl next door, blue-eyed and blondehaired, and she sang a number

of slow romantic ballads, my favourite being “You’re Just Too Marvellous”. As with the male singers, the female contrasts could not be more marked. Ella Fitzgerald was a black girl from the Deep South and had a difficult early life. Her rhythmic talent must have been obvious from an early age and her ethnic roots and the area of her upbringing led to her jazz singing. She made her first non-jazz record in 1935 and recorded songs by all the major composers of her time. All through her career she could switch easily from show tunes or romantic ballads straight into effortless jazz. One of her more famous records is of the show tune “Mack The Knife” live from a concert, when after a formal start to the song she suddenly breaks into jazz singing, substituting her own lyrics and bringing the house down. A lot of Ella Fitzgerald’s recordings were supported by top- class musicians which added greatly to their charm. The slow ballad “Every Time We Say Goodbye” by Cole Porter remains my favourite popular song of all time. National Service My life from September to the end of December 1950 appeared on the surface to be quite orderly and pleasant. I was happy at home, work was going well, I played

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Local History

St Martins 15+ Club. We must have had a Table Tennis match on that evening because five regular members, including me, are missing. league table tennis, Saturday afternoons were occupied by 15 Plus club and mixed hockey, Sunday was church and most other times were spent with Gill, with visits to the cinema and

relaxing times at her home. Over this seemingly enjoyable time a great shadow loomed – National Service and two years in the RAF. My conscription papers came through ordering

me to report to RAF Padgate, Lancashire on 3rd January 1951. So Christmas time 1950 was a time of preparation for a new form of life. The manager of my employer, Bethell Gwyn & Co., presented me

with a top-of-the- range fountain pen and made a gesture that was almost unique for employers. Being aware of my mother’s financial hardship and knowing that my contribution to household expenses was vital, he said that the firm would pay my mother ten shillings a week on the understanding that I would contribute the same amount from my service pay. I of course thankfully accepted the kind offer. I have never heard of any other organisation that made such a benevolent offer. That Christmas Gill gave me a writing case complete with postage stamps so that I would have no excuse for not writing to her. NEXT ISSUE: Read about the next chapter in John's life national service. 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 to news@ southbristolvoice.co.uk or post to South Bristol Voice, 111 Broadfield Rd Knowle Bristol B42UX. All items will be safely returned

MATTHEW KING STONEMASON CALL 07979 895569

BE ONE OF US

BEFORE

AFTER

CONTACT US TO FIND OUT WHAT CAREERS ARE AVAILABLE AT ASHTON GATE Permanent & Temporary Roles Competitive Rates of Pay | Excellent Benefits Learning and Development Opportunities Apprenticeship Schemes F I N D OU T M O R E To register your interest, please email: talent@ashtongate.co.uk

Providing unwavering standards and traditional values for 36 years • Newly worked stone • Carving • Restoration • Rebuilding • Pennant walling • Repointing • Paint removal • Buyer’s survey

www.mkingstone.com

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n CHARITY APPEAL

November 2021

The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Christmas Children Appeal The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Children Appeal is a registered charity that raises money throughout the year to help the city’s most disadvantaged children and young people at Christmas time. Every year, more and more children in Bristol face a bleak Christmas. It is one of the UK’s most prosperous cities but shockingly has the highest proportion of young people in poverty in the South West. Lawrence Hill is one of the

UK’s poorest areas with 60% of children in poverty Our volunteers work throughout the year to raise a total of £66,000 through a gala dinner, carol concert and other events. Through the generosity of individuals, schools, organisations and businesses, we are able to help a total of 1,650 of the city’s children who are most in need. These vouchers are administered by Bristol City Council. This allows us to give

n BUSINESS NEWS

each child a £20 voucher for gifts or clothing and a £20 voucher for food. This year, more than ever, we need your support to help children in Bristol. How you can help Donate online at https:// www.lordmayorofbristolappeal. com/support-us or send a cheque made payable to The Lord Mayor of Bristol’s Children Appeal, to: 3 Park Crescent, Frenchay, Bristol BS16 1PD. Join us on one of our fundraising events, including the Carol Concert at St Georges, or

Santa’s Sleigh collection. Schools can help through Christmas carol and nativity play collections, cake sales, summer fetes and other fundraising activities. The charity also welcomes volunteers to help with fundraising, public relations and administration. Every gift, large or small, makes a massive difference to the work we do for children and young people in Bristol. Thank you for your support.

New shop opens in Knowle A new business has opened Wells Road in Knowle. It's called Nook. The cafe and gift shop serves hot drinks, cakes, scones, toasted tea cakes along with breakfasts and light seasonal lunches. The retail side offers beautiful locally made products, such as Handsome Vintage, Yay Rae Flay acrylic pieces, Slug Rings (based in Bath) beautiful goods from the Letterpress Collective, amazing prints from Jessica Mae Designs, Susie Brooks iconic Bristol views, prints and more from Clevedon's The Fine Artist and an array of eco and sustainable goods. Plus Nook has a gallery space with exhibitions of paintings and artworks.

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n SPORTS NEWS

Let's get behind Bristol City Women football team By Harry Mottram: Much has been written about Bristol City FC as they battle to stay in the Championship and press ahead with an attempt to gain promotion to the Premiership and the world of Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool. That's great but there's another Bristol City FC in the form of the women's team who have a growing support base thanks in part to television coverage of the nation's teams and of internationals. The skill level, fitness and commitment is as high as the men's teams and it has been argued women play a more flowing game with fewer stoppages. In 2015 the club became Bristol City Women’s Football Club although before that there was a pre-history going back to the 1980s. In fact its roots can be traced to Bristol Rovers Girls Footballers

who morphed into Bristol Rovers Women's FC and later in 2002 became known as Bristol Academy WFC under a new partnership agreement with South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (previously Filton College). By 2011, Bristol Academy WFC Limited was formed and won a licence to compete in the new FA Women’s Super League. At this point Bristol Rovers disappeared and it took until 2019 for Bristol Rovers Women's Football Club to be re-launched in the spring of 2019. They play in the Gloucestershire County Women's League and are based in Lockleaze at the sports centre. Back to Bristol City Women who now play their football in the FA Championship, the nation's second tier of the league system having been relegated last season from

n SPORTS NEWS IN BRIEF Bristol City Women Footballers: The team have a number of fixtures this month in the FA Championship with away games on November 8th against Coventry and on the 28th they face Watford. At home they square up to Blackburn Rovers on Sunday, November 14, at 3pm at the Robins High Performance Centre, Clevedon Road at Failand near Bristol, in the FA Championship and on Wednesday, November 17th they entertain Lewes FC Womenin the FA Continental Cup. Bristol Rugby: The Bristol Bears will be looking to re-establish last season's form with victories over arch rivals Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on Saturday, November 13th in the Premiership Rugby Cup as well as taking the spoils at Worcester on the 20th in the same competition. They have two tough home fixtures this month in the Gallagher Premiership at Ashton Gate as they welcome Worcestershire Warriors on Saturday, November 6th and Northampton Saints on Friday, November 26th in the evening. Bristol City FC: The team are away to Birmingham City on Tuesday, November 2nd in the Sky Bet Championship with another trip to the Midlands when they travel to play Coventry City on Saturday, November 6th. The Robins are at home at Ashton Gate on Saturday, November 20th when they entertain Blackburn Rovers.

And they enjoy home support again on Wednesday, November 24th when they play Stoke City in their push up the table in the Sky Bet Championship. Finally this month on Sunday, November 28th, they have a lunch time kick-off against Sheffield United. Let's hope they take all three points and approach December in good order in the division. Cricket: Bedminster Cricket Club is based in the heart of South Bristol and is one of the premier clubs in the South West. And although the season is now over until next spring it's worth reminding everyone of this successful and friendly cricket club. They offer both senior and youth cricket iwth five Saturday senior teams, with the first XI in the West of England Premier League Division, right down to the C XI in the Bristol & District League Division 13, we can truly offer cricket for all. The youth section has been one of the most successful in the area over the last five years, with three County champions and countless local trophies. The club states: "We can offer a fun, competitive and safe environment for young players of ages from five to 18 to learn and improve their cricket skills. "We are always welcoming new players to the club as well as those who want to enjoy the social side and contribute off the field."

The team in training

the Women's Super League - the top tier. As Bristol Academy they had worked their way up the leagues and in 2016 as Bristol City they played in the top flight. Sadly relegation has been a set back but the footballers will be aiming to

return to the premiership next year. The last 12 months however has seen the year of the three coaches. First up was Australian coach Tanya Oxtoby. The former Nottingham Forest manager and professional footballer for Doncaster Belles and several Australian teams including Perth Glory but left to join Chelsea although she had been on maternity leave. Matt Beard came in as interim manager to cover her absence but he has moved on to Liverpool at the end of last season. The third coach is Lauren Smith who has previously been with the club as assistant coach spending seven years mainly with the junior teams. She is highly regarded in the game having left Tottenham Hotspurs this year to join the reds.

"Women are also very much at the heart of the club reflecting the success of the national team in internationals screened on TV." The club said: "After a successful first season of ladies cricket in 2019, Bedminster Belles are continuing to grow." Hockey: Firebrands Hockey Club is the home of hockey in Bristol. Since 1947 the club has not only been hugely successful on a national and local level, but is also highly inclusive, family friendly and fun. The club says: "We pride ourselves on offering quality hockey to anyone, regardless of age and experience. From our high-performance men’s and ladies hockey teams throughout our adult teams right to our under 10s, you will find a club that offers the level of performance, commitment and fun you want." Tennis: South Bristol is blessed with a number of tennis clubs. These include the Greville Smyth Park Tennis Club, Knowle Lawn

Tennis Club, Victoria Park Tennis Club and the David Lloyd Centre in Ashton. With the success of Emma Raducanu in the USA Open there is an expectation the sport will get a boost. With hard courts tennis can be played all year round. Greville Smyth Park has a thriving junior section with prices frozen at the 2018 level meaning for an adult the fee is less than £1 a week - a lot less than a gym. Bristol born Katie Swan is currently the most high profile tennis professional the city has produced while those with long memories will recall Jo Durie who in 1983 reached both semifinals of the French Open and USA Opens. Broad Plain Rugby Club: the first team play in the Gloucester Second Division South with a match against Cleve II on November 6. The second XV play in the Wadworth 6X Bristol & District Second Division. The teams train on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm. New players always welcome.

Bedminster Cricket Club members pose for a club photograph

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

Feature

Everything you wanted to know about COP26 and how you can take part in a Bristol demo

What is COP 26? Every year world leaders from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) meet to discuss, check progress, and set new targets to tackle climate change. This is the Conference of the Parties (COP) and this year, from October 31st until November 12th in Glasgow, will be the 26th COP. Why is this year’s COP26 so important? During COP21, in Paris, countries agreed to strengthen their commitments to climate change action every five years. The meeting was delayed last year due to Covid and since then the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report was published, confirming that humans activities are responsible for climate change. This means all eyes are on world leaders at the COP26, particularly wealthy nations like the UK, to make sure there are clear plans to reduce their emissions to keep global temperatures below 1.5c. How is COP26 going to affect us? If COP26 is successful, countries will set ambitious carbon reduction targets for 2030 - only 9 years away. These interim targets are necessary to ensure that we get to the carbon zero targets by 2050. They will also ensure we don't add excessive amounts of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere before then. To achieve these targets the Government’s COP26 team

believe we have to accelerate the phasing out of coal and swiftly increase the amount of renewable energy we use, while reversing deforestation. These goals will affect us all in many aspects of our lives. They mean we will have to change how we heat our homes, fuel our cars, and many pension providers will have to change the way they invest money on our behalf. Why is 1.5C so important? The IPCC closely examined what would happen to the planet with a temperature rise of 1.5C. They found that there was a vast difference between the damage done at 1.5C and that of 2C of heating. They stated that the lower temperature was safer. We are already at temperatures of 1.1C around the globe and a temperature rise of 1.5C will still mean rising sea levels, bleached coral reefs and extreme weather conditions but far less than a rise of 2C. What is Net Zero? Net zero relates to greenhouse gases. It is the balance between the amount of greenhouse gas produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. We will reach net zero when do not produce more greenhouse gases than we are able to take out of the atmosphere.

In brief: how to get involved •· Write to your local MP explaining why this is important to you, so they can lobby the government on your behalf. · In Bristol you can write to your local councillors to let them know that you support Bristol’s goal of Zero Carbon by 2030 and ask them to lobby the Mayor to remove Bristol City Council’s pension funds from risky fossil fuel investments. · You can lobby the key players from the UK: Alok Sharma, Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak.You can do this directly, via Twitter or writing to them in their leadership roles (as Prime Minister, Chancellor, etc.You must use the emails connected to their ministerial posts to do this (not their MP addresses). · If you want to travel to Glasgow to join people and listen to fringe events being organised, then COP26 coalition has all the information including maps.You can also follow @cop26 on Instagram. · In Bristol on Saturday the 6th November there will be a march from College Green at 12pm, in solidarity with cities and towns across the UK for a ‘Global Day of Action’. Everyone is welcome.

There are still many solutions and there is still time to take action. Piece produced on behalf of COP26Coalition, Bristol Hub.

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

The

Complete Marrying elite, naaonal-level coaching, and ﬁrst-class schooling

Swimmer

Programme To ﬁnd out more, contact admissions@cliionhigh.co.uk 0117 933 9087

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

The Wicked Witch of Knowle

In witch taming of the shrew is possible

e all possess a shrew. It’s skulking inside just waiting to scurry out, usually when someone is making your brain hurt with their ridiculousness. I have a friend whose daughter has moved back home while her own house is being renovated. The daughter is eight months pregnant and has a 20-month-old toddler. She’s a hormonal mess. The other day Mrs Hormonal was raging about something absurd. This made my friend a little bit mad. Mrs Hormonal stopped mid-rant, narrowed her eyes and hissed “What’s wrong with your face? All teeth and beady eyes?” The shrew had been released. We have a caravan near the sea in Dorset. When I’m there, the tantalising pull of the ocean gets me up early for a freezing wake up swim. I usually call for my friend, Mrs Shrew. We stroll along the lane, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE WICKED WITCH OF KNOWLE

robes covering our costumes, looking like a nattering pair of monks off to morning prayer but swinging beach shoes instead of prayer books. Mrs Hormonal watched as we marched down the lane and commented that we looked like sisters, dark hair piled in top knots and shrew faces nodding at each other as we chatted. Of course we did, we always rage about the injustices of life. Our teeth were bared, noses wrinkled and eyes shrunken to glassy black beads. Shrew sisters.

Back in Knowle and the shrew is shifting under the surface popping up more often than I’d like. Recently, barefooted and mooching around the house, I trod on a tiny sharp stone. These nasty little annoyances are everywhere since my street was resurfaced a few years ago. I say resurfaced then laugh hysterically. On the scheduled maintenance day, we were woken by a couple of trucks rumbling along bursting with stone chippings. They proceeded to tip a few tons of it onto the road, workmen whistled merrily as they spread it around with rakes, then they all tootled off back to their smooth tarmacked avenues of Clifton. Piles of loose stone now litter our street. Cars trying to accelerate do so with an impressive skidding noise, makes my Honda Jazz sound menacing. Children slip, fall and get peppered with stone piercings.

And I get bits of gravel caught in the tread of my shoes, walking them into my house where they drop like grenades waiting to explode into bare skin. I released the shrew. The shrew was still squeaking when my tallest boy child called with an emergency. He had double-parked, raced into work to get something important, got back to the car and couldn’t find his keys. They had gone. Did I have the spare? I did not. He had passed his stress to me. Through shrew clenched teeth I suggested retracing his steps. This suggestion released Tallest’s own inner shrew as he texted me later “retrace my steps – the last thing anyone wants to hear in that situation”. The keys were found (after he’d retraced his steps) and the two shrews were put back in their boxes, snarling.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Will Writing Will Writing & & Estate Planning Estate Planning protect your your family’sfamily’s inheritance A Will Willlets letsyouyou protect inheritance and decide youryour assets are shared out – if out you – if you and decidehow how assets are shared don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

WEB-CAM

WILLS

Please feel free Please feel free to call us during call on: us during officetohours

hours 0117office 952 0698

or email 0117 952 0698

The Power Of Iyengar Yoga Friendly and challenging Yoga classes for all abilities

info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk

By Yoga Loft Bristol

Overlooking beautiful Queen Square is Yoga Loft on the top floor of the Bristol Osteopaths. For over 20 years, Iyengar Yoga classes have run here teaching the ancient practice of yoga to help reclaim an energised body and find a calm and focussed mind. We have seen in our online classes how much students have suffered from the effects of lockdown. We are excited to reopen and are now offering more classes, bringing the art and science of yoga back in 3D. Iyengar Yoga For All Regular yoga practice has proven to increase strength, stamina, and flexibility; to reduce stress, improve sleep

and bricks) to help you stay in and enhance overall wellbeing. Through yoga we can restore our poses which makes Iyengar yoga We have teamteam of We havea aBristol-based Bristol-based of trained natural relaxation response and accessible to people of all ages trained Willawriting consultants whocan now We have Bristol-based team Will writing consultants who clear the mind of clutter. and all abilities. can now provide the same personal Iyengar yoga is methodical of trained Will writing consultants provide the same personal face to face face to face meetings via our and progressive: focussing who provide a and, home visiting serviceand, meetings via our Web-Cam-Wills Classes will be run according Web-Cam-Wills subject to health on alignment and actions for to COVID safety guidelines and safety, canto take your instructions in can the still subject safety, we and wehealth can stilland provide a homemaximum benefit. Sequences and numbers are limited. are carefully structured to bring visiting service to take your instructions in We have ayour Bristol-based team comfort own home. provide aofhomeBOOKING IS REQUIRED. physical, mental, and emotional the comfort of your own visiting service to writing takehome.consultants of trained Will clarity. Monday through Friday from your the visiting service 1-2pm, £10.00 We aren’t looking for whoinstructions provide a inhome Instagram perfect poses and Wednesday evening comfort of your own and can take your instructions in the want to challenge you in a 6.15-7.30pm, £12.50 home. friendly and supportive way – Bristol Osteopaths, 57 Queen comfort of your own home. whether you are experienced or A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance Charlotte Street, BS1 4HQ new to yoga. Yoga is welcoming and decide how your assets are shared out – if you Toandbook a class email: To book a class, please email: inclusive. don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. yogaloftbristol@gmail.com As Iyengar yoga teachers, our Find us on Instagram @ training is extensive and ongoing. yogaloftbristol We often use props (like belts

Monday-Friday 1-2 pm Wednesdays 6.15-7.30 pm

57 Queen Charlotte Street Bristol BS1 4HQ

or email

info@elm-online.co.uk

Mirror www.elm-online.co.uk Wills Single Or Couples FROM £99.00

Mirror Wills Single Or

Will Writing & Couples FROM £99.00 Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Estate Planning

Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures Please feel free to call us during ads@the-pigeon.com Facebook.com/thepigeonmag To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664 office hours on:

yogaloftbristol@gmail.com

Advertising: T: 0117 3224939

on:

0117 952 0698

November 2021

southbristolvoice

ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST

with Ade Williams • are in long-stay residential care homes

Act now to prevent a virus nightmare

aily news headlines paint a scary picture. The impact of HGV driver shortages and high energy plus living costs has cast the Prime Minister as a Panto character with ‘‘Boris will Save Christmas’’ - a refrain to cheers and jeers. All these alongside the pressures of NHS treatment backlog and the challenges of meeting increased healthcare access demand over the winter months. There is one nightmare we can all play a big part to prevent. This year the NHS is encouraging everyone in the higher risk groups to get their Flu vaccine and their COVID-19 booster vaccine as soon as possible to prevent you or your loved ones being laid up seriously ill with Flu or COVID. Last year, with social distancing, maskwearing and hand hygiene measures protecting us, flu was almost non-existent. The risk is that fewer people this year have built up natural immunity to Flu, which sadly kills over 10000 every year. The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to people who:

Ade Williams of Bedminster Pharmacy discusses how pharmacies can help people with a variety of health conditions, and ease pressure on the NHS • are 50 and over (including those who'll be 50 by 31 March 2022) • have certain health conditions • are pregnant

• receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick • live with someone more likely to get infections (such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) • frontline health or social care workers This same group of people will also be most at risk from COVID-19, so they are eligible for the booster vaccine at least 6 months after their second vaccine dose. The NHS will contact you when it is time for your booster dose. Getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 will protect you and those around you.Both jabs are offered together at the Bedminster Methodist Church COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic. The Bedminster Pharmacy Team is always at hand, providing the flu jab, helping you navigate how to book your booster appointment and offering Free NHS lateral flow test collection.

A WORLD OF

Quality

COVID ith secure w the 5 ent Governm es Guidelin

A WORLD OF

Choice

A WORLD OF

Value

Discover a range of

Carpets • Vinyls Laminates • Karndean Commercial solutions We are one of the first businesses in the UK to offer Google Interactive Virtual Reality Tours

Open: Mon-Fri 9 - 5.30pm | Sat 9 - 5pm | Sun 10 - 4pm The Old Coachworks, Bath Road, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL Tel: 0117 947 7721 | www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

We've gone bonkers for conkers! Children in Cleve House School took part in an age old autumnal sport last month when they held a conker contest. The seasonal sport of conkers is as old as time with two contestants taking strikes at their opponents conker dangled on a string. Wikipedia says that the first mention of the game is in Robert Southey's memoirs published in 1821. He describes a similar game, but played with snail shells or

hazelnuts. It was only from the 1850s that using horse chestnuts was regularly referred to in certain regions. The game grew in popularity in the 19th century, and spread beyond England so they reported. True conker players don't bake their conkers or coat them in varnish but seek the shiniest and toughest looking conkers from the ground beneath the chestnut tree and then string them ready for battle as can be seen here.

Conker fun: concentration is needed

Conker fun: the art is to get a clean strike

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

The FIEND 8 5 9

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

6 4 3 2 8 9 5 4 2 1 6 9 8 3 7 9

3 1

P A

I 6

A A

N N T

O S

T E

WE BUY COLLECTABLES

Down 1. 62766738 (8) 2. 273 (3) 4. 3337 (4) 5. 8245 (4) 7. 769 (3) 9. 228 (3)

6 8

Across 1. 6262833 (7) 3. 763368 (6) 6. 277 (3) 8. 6936 (4) 9. 2529 (4) 10. 8768837 (7)

Txtpert

Each row, column and square (4 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-4, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

Theme: Animal world

Easier sudoku Solution E

Txtpert

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

6 7 4

PUZZLES for all For younger readers

Extr £

£ Installation - Repair - Services

HIFI

DJ GEAR

ANY ITEMS CONSIDERED CASH | PAYPAL | BANK TRANSFER 07817 450005 or 07976 827967

collectorcaveltd@gmail.com

STAIRLIFTS

NEW from £1,399 RECONDITIONED from £899 RENTAL from £55 per month

Tel: 01749 346900 | www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk The Works, Board Cross, Shepton Mallet BA4 5DX

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

SUTT family to pro servic policy We refurb either throug All com warra option as wel checks We

southbristolvoice

November 2021

LOCAL HISTORY

When 'Fatty' Wedlock took City to the FA Cup Final By Harry Mottram. They often say you can be fat and fit. Well that was certainly true of Bristol City's most capped international footballer William John Wedlock. Born in October 1880 'Fatty' Wedlock as he was known remains the club's most-capped player appearing in the England team's line up 26 times and scoring two goals for his country. The stout and short centrehalf had a natural talent for the game as well has having that low centre of gravity possessed by players such as Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona. He was with the club in the 1905/06 season when the Bristol Babes won the Second Division title with the club and then wove his magic on the pitch the following season when City were runners up in the top flight in Edwardian England. It was a golden era for the club which has rarely been matched since

although supporters live in hope that the Robins will one day rival those heady days. In 1909 the team came close to achieving the ultimate dream of clubs when they reached the FA Cup final losing out by a single goal to Manchester United, which they lost 1-0. In total the one time city skipper made 391 appearances for the team, bagging 17 goals. Bristol City was his only club in professional football. He retired from the game in 1921 before running a pub near the ground at Ashton Gate which sadly has long since been demolished. Wedlock's name lived on after his death in 1960 with the Wedlock stand (now gone) and in the personality of humorist folk singer and entertainer Fred Wedlock. The man behind the 1981 chart hit 'The Oldest Swinger in Town' was a regular fixture in

Nicknamed 'Fatty', Wedlock remains the club's most-capped player (whilst playing for the club) with 26 England caps to his name - and two goals venues and theatres across Bristol until his passing in 2010. Truly two greats who blessed the city with their diverse talents.

Win Tickets for White Christmas We have free tickets for the wonderful musical White Christmas that's being staged at Bristol Hippodrome from Monday to Saturday 1-6 November 2021. To win email sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk marking the email subject White Christmas Competition and answer this question: In the Paramount Pictures 1954 movie starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye what were the names of the characters they played? Tie breaker: name the director of the film. Write your answers in an email and include your full name, address and phone number and email it by October 31, 2021. Good luck! The prize is as stated, and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The tickets are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability, and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice. The winner will be notified by email and/or DM on Twitter/ Facebook and/or letter within 28 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 7 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner. The winner agrees to the use of their name and image in any publicity material, as well as their entry. Any personal data relating to the winner, or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current [UK] data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. However, the winner agrees for their contact details to be given to The Bristol Hippodrome. The winner accepts responsibility for checking the performance is suitable for those accompanying them to the theatre. The winner understands that tickets allocated will require the use of stairs to access, The Bristol Hippodrome is a listed building and has no lift access. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

nFEATURE

Otters, a mermaid, poo and saving our rivers By Lindsey Cole: Britain’s waterways have been in decline since 2011, putting wildlife like otters at serious risk. Much of the river pollution comes from agricultural waste and raw sewage, so basically - poo. Being a mermaid and children’s author, I wanted to raise awareness about the problem and inspire children to look after their local river. Otters are top of the river food chain. If the river is not healthy then otters will go else where for food. So I donned my mermaid tail and swam 50 miles of the Bristol Avon, to investigate what’s going on and to see if I could find an otter, whilst towing a big poo sculpture. I met some fascinating people along the way who shared their pollution stories. River activist, Johnny Palmer, discovered raw

sewage dumped by water companies was making children ill at Warleigh Weir. Eddie, a boat dweller, showed me a bundle of wet wipes caught on a tree branch, which had emerged from a sewage pipe. Michelle Walker, from the Rivers Trust, joined me for a swim whilst we waited for the results of her water quality test in Newbridge. Michelle said: “If we make our rivers a no go zone, no one’s going to notice if the otters disappear and the wildlife isn’t there.” I became very ill after Bath. It had been raining heavily the previous day. Issie Bishop from Earthwatch, my canoe support that day, mentioned it was ‘mucking season’ and it was likely that all of that manure on farmers fields was being washed into the

Lindsey swam 50 miles along the River Avon with a support canoe and a giant poo

river and possibly made me sick. We did a water quality test, which show high levels of nitrates and phosphates, which are both present in poo, soil, and fertiliser. When they get into a river in high doses they can cause algal blooms. These algal blooms reduce light and oxygen levels under the water, eventually killing off plants, insects, and fish. Which means no food for our friendly otters. Issie said: “The Environment Agency’s budget has been cut by 75% over the last decade so there

are less boots on the ground to prosecute polluters. So these citizen science tests are incredibly important and fill the gaps that the EA is missing. We need to fight to protect our rivers.” As well as turning this journey into a children’s book, I’m having a film made to teach schools how to do citizen science. If you’d like to support the project please visit www. crowdfunder.co.uk/the-mermaidthe-otter-and-the-big-poo or lindseycole.co.uk.

Taking a splash: Lindsey the mermaid shows her tail during the swim

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

n WHAT’S ON Will it won't it - we hope Covid-19 will not stop these November events - but always check first with the venue Wed 27 Oct-Sat 6 Nov. Hamlet. Kelvin Players Studio, Gloucester Road Shakespeare's tragedy set in Denmark directed by Kris Hallett. Thu 28 Oct - Sat 6 Nov. Theatre Royal Bath: Private Lives. A new production of Private Lives, the inaugural show from Nigel Havers’ new theatre company which will be touring the country with a line-up of theatrical gems. Launching the company, Coward’s dazzling comic masterpiece is both a scintillatingly witty and scathingly vitriolic study of the rich and reckless in love. Nigel Havers, ever suave and thoroughly charming, plays Elyot, the role taken by Noël Coward himself in the original production in 1930. Mon 1 - Sat 6 Nov. Bristol Hippodrome. White Christmas. A new production of Irving Berlin’s musical about a group of young people, army memories and a resort where it’s stopped snowing. Tue 2-Sat 12 Nov. Tobacco Factory Theatre. Living Spit - Frankenstein The Musical. Howard and Stu’s comic take on Mary Shelley’s gruesome gothic novel. With original music, preposterous puppets, grotesque gags and diabolically desperate dance-moves, this rib-ticklingly raucous monster of a show will leave you in stitches. Wed 3 Nov. The Egg Theatre Bath. Jekyll and Hyde. Students stage

Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella in all its horror. This is a world in which relationships are governed by secrecy, suspicion and doubt; a world of internal and external conflict as one man’s struggles with the duality of his nature threaten to destroy himself and his relationships with those around him. CHURCH OF CHRIST, ST JOHN'S LANE, BS3 5AY Currently meeting every Sunday: • 9:00 Worship • 10:15 bible classes for all ages • 11:30 Worship Currently holding two morning services to accommodate more at a social distance For details or help: Jason 07795560990 Thu 4 Nov. Hen and Chicken, Bedminster. Henrik Jensen’s plus By Thirteen. Part of the B-Bop Club in the Chicken Shed. Henrik Jensen's quartet has toured the world from Tokyo to Moscow with various modern jazz projects and also as part of the band for close harmony group The Puppini Sisters. Thu 4 Nov. Mission Theatre Bath: Kate Bush Stripped. Bristol based Lisa-Marie Walters together with ‘stripped back’ piano arrangements by Mark Feven celebrate the music of Kate Bush. Thu 4 Nov. Arnos Vale Cemetery. Bristol Film Festival. At Bristol's very own necropolis, for two nights

The weekend of the 13-14th sees a return of the Totterdown Arts Trail

Kate McNab and Ross Harvey appear in Doodlebugs and Bogeymen at the Alma Tavern Theatre with stories that will chime with older residents of screenings dedicated to two of the great directors of dark fantasy, Guillermo Del Toro and Henry Selick! Enter this fascinating space after hours, get a drink from the pop-up bar, then make your way to the beautiful Anglican Chapel to take your seat, and enjoy the show in this unique venue. Next up is Selick's wonderfully creepy adaptation of Neil Gaiman's novella Coraline. 7.30pm - 9.30pm Fri 5 Nov. Arnolfini. Sutapas Biwas exhibition. The British Indian artist engages with questions of identity, race and gender in relation to time, space and history. Her works are inspired by oral histories, literature and art history. She is particularly Whitchurch Art Club Christmas Art and Craft Fayre 26th November 3-6 pm at Fortfield Road, Community Centre Free entry so pop in to start, or finish your Christmas Shopping with some unique gifts or just enjoy our Art Exhibition and Sale. Affordable gifts for young and old to buy. Refreshments. Raffle – win amazing gifts. Cake stall yummy cakes to buy. Car parking on and off road and on 92 and 515 bus route. We would love to see you. New Members welcome. Every Thursday 7-9 pm.

interested in the ways in which larger historical narratives collide with personal narratives. Fri 5- Sat 6 Nov. Alma Tavern Theatre. For Queen and Country. Actor Neil Summerville brings to life the true story of Major Denis Rake who worked as British spy in WW2 in Paris with a cover of a drag artist entertaining the Nazis. Fri 5-Thu 23 Dec. Bristol's Christmas Market. Broadmead. Wooden chalets offering a selection of gifts as well as festive food and drink. Sat 6 Nov. Whitchurch. Car Boot Sale. From 11am. Every Saturday at Hengrove Park. Sat 6 Nov. Andrew Bird at the Hen and Chicken. The Bedminster venue hosts Stand Up For The Weekend with Andrew Bird featuring Garrett Millerick plus compere Clint Edwards. Mon 8 Nov. Hen and Chicken, Bedminster. Open Mic Night. Chicken Shed. Monthly open mic (2nd Monday of every month) in the custom built music room inside the Hen and Chicken pub. Hosted by James Slater, Elliot Hall and Sarah Larkham. Tue 9 Nov. Bristol. Bristol Poppy collection day all in aid of the Poppy Appeal for the Royal British Legion.

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

n WHAT’S ON Thu 11-Sat 20 Nov. Bristol Old Vic Studio. Macbeth. Bristol Old Vic Theatre School perform Shakespeare's tragic Scottish saga with ghosts, witches and gruesome murder. Sat-Sun, 13-14. Totterdown. Front Room Arts Trail. The oldest arts trail in Bristol, and one of the most biggest too. Around 200 artists will showcase their work in homes and venues across Totterdown, with this year having the theme of ‘Fairytales, Myths and Legends’. Sat 13 Nov. Egg Theatre Bath: Puss In Boots. Your cat might turn you from a pauper to a prince just like the hero of this story. Using smoke and mirrors and hidden trapdoors we’ll show you how this sure-footed feline fools both the King and the Ogre to take his master all the way to the top. With a host of puppets, a working windmill

YOGA CLASSES Kate: 07967 623 392 kate@yogawithkaty.co.uk Instagram: @katylou_fox Caroline: 07570 507 494 caroline@carolinereidyoga.com Instagram: @carolinereidyoga

and an avalanche of fruit and nuts come and see this classic furry tail, it’s the cat’s whiskers! Sun 14 Nov. Antenatal & Hypnobirthing Course. Windmill Hill City Farm. Any expectant parents (first-timers or otherwise) who are looking for a complete birth preparation course that will transform their worries and fears of the unknown into calm and confidence. Sun 14 Nov. Hen and Chicken

Bedminster. Sarah Larkham. Songs from her new EP with support from beautifully ethereal folk singer-songwriter Sue Harding. Mon 15 Nov. Redgrave Theatre Clifton. Happy Days Are Here Again. Songs of the 1940s and a celebration of the wartime era and VE Day. Tue 16 Nov. The Forum Bath. The James Haskell Show. Top rugby talk from the former England played who knows his rucks from his crums. Wed 17 Nov. The Cube Cinema. Baby Cinema. 11am most Wednesdays for parents/carers with young babies (up to 1 year) to enjoy a movie in the company of other parents and their offspring. Thu 18 Nov. Arnolfini. Music from Leifur James. At the core of James’ distinct sound is an impressive harmony between his intricate avant-garde production and rich, emotive vocals. Mon 22 - Sat 27 Nov. Alma Tavern Theatre, Clifton. Doodlebugs and Bogeymen. Bedminster’s Kate McNab and Ross Harvey take a fond look at the lives of Jen and Brian Milton, two evacuees from London who are sent to Somerset with songs and stories of wartime Bristol

A Bristol Christmas Carol A Play in a Day It’s panto time again…oh yes it is! Acting Out and Launchpad can’t wait to produce their 6th Christmas ‘Play in a Day’…A Bristol Christmas Carol! This year the team will be working once more with the fantastic actor Chris Yapp who has recently just finished filming the new Stephen Merchant series The Outlaws. The playinaday team will once again be recruiting actors of all ages to join the cast. Participants can get involved in the acting, creating or both. This brilliant community event will take place at the Hen and Chicken Studio, North Street BS3 on Sunday 5th December. The workshop will run from 10:00 – 16:30 where the cast will be rehearsing, creating props, scenery and costumes ready for the evening production. Jacqui Ham, from Acting Out, said “After a year off last year we are so excited to be back with this great fun annual show. In the past we have had casts of over 60 children and adults – it is always such an amazing and fun day! We can’t wait to produce another Christmas panto with the brilliant BS3 community.” Launchpad are keen to hear from any community groups who would like to get involved in making some of the props and scenery in advance of the event. The workshop will cost £25 for children and over 18s are free. To book a place please contact enquiries@actingoutdrama.com or book on the website www.actingoutdrama.com The performance will be at 18:30 and is open to all. Tickets are £5 and can be purchased from the Southville Centre. All profits from the pantomime tickets will be split equally between Cancer Research UK and BS3 Community Development Charity. To find out more about Acting Out and Launchpad please take a look at their websites www.actingoutdrama.com www.launchpadclasses.co.uk

Tue 23-Sat 27 Nov. Theatre Royal Bath: The Midnight Bell. Matthew Bourne’s story of 1930s London life where ordinary people emerge from cheap boarding houses nightly to pour out their passions, hopes and dreams in the pubs and bars of fog-bound Soho and Fitzrovia. English Patrick Hamilton’s novel Twenty Thousand Streets Under The Sky.. Fri 26 Nov- Sat 8 Jan. Bristol Old Vic Theatre. Robin Hood and the Legend of the Forgotten Forest. The Wardrobe Ensemble team up with Bristol Old Vic for a fresh spin on the swashbuckling legend. Thu 2 Dec-Fri 10 Dec. The Redgrave Theatre. Romeo and Juliet. Bristol Old Vic Theatre School present Shakespeare's tragedy of the star crossed lovers in fair Verona. Fri 3-Sat 4 Dec. Totterdown Baptist Church. Baptist Community Players are staging The Magnificent Prince written by Martin Warren. It's a family panto, with lots of audience participation. Friday 3rd December 7pm and Saturday 4th December at 3pm. Tickets are £5 adults (over

Arnos Vocale: For singers who love classical vocal music, great jazz standards and beautiful international folksongs all in 4-part arrangements and above. Some a Capella, some accompanied. Experience of choral singing and reasonable sight-reading ability preferable but come for a free trial session where we can all see if it’s a fit! £8 each week thereafter. Knowle Methodist church hall, entrance in Redcatch Road BS4 2EP every Tuesday 7-9pm. Contact Anya Szreter szreter. afm@icloud.com 16) and £3 children (3-15) Under 3's free. At Totterdown Baptish Church on Wells road, Knowle. To buy tickets online go to www. tbc.org.uk/panto21. Totterdown Baptist are also hosting artists for the Front Room Art Trail (20-21st November) and Totterdown Tots have restarted on Mondays 9.3011am. Sat 4 Dec-Sun 5 Dec. Redgrave Theatre. While Shepherds Nightingale Valley Community Choir: No experience necessary, no need to read music. Come and join our friendly choir and learn to sing better than you ever knew you could. St Cuthbert's Church, Sandy Park Rd BS4 3PG. Every Monday 7.30-9pm. Taster session free then £7 each week or £70 for 11 weeks. Contact: Anya Szreter szreter.afm@ icloud.com Watched. Retelling of the Nativity story by the drama students of the Old Vic. Not to be missed. Wed 15 Dec. St Michael’s Without Bath: Passamezzo – Old Christmas Returned. Christmas celebrated, banned and restored in 17th Century England. A seasonal programme following the calendar from Advent to Candlemas and showing how Christmas was celebrated, banned and restored in 17th Century England. Carols, ballads, consort music, lutesongs, dance melodies and readings. Includes music by Gibbons, Locke, Peerson and Purcell; readings by Breton, Herrick and Shakespeare. Performed in Period costume by Passamezzo. Thu 16 Dec-Sun 9 Jan. Theatre Royal Bath: Cinderella. John Monie returns as Buttons in a classic seasonal pantomime and is joined by mum-to-be Dani Harmer as the Fairy Godmother. • Have you got an event you'd like included in our What's On section? Email sales@southbristolvoice. co.uk

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

n THEATRE REVIEWS

November 2021

Beauty and the Beast was a great night out, plus a real 'beaut' of a show Theatre Review: Beauty and the Beast, Bristol Hippodrome Take a classic well-known tale, a brilliant comedy pairing, romance, beautiful voices, phenomenal sets and a little Disney fairy dust and what you have is a fabulous evening to remember forever. The classic love story tells the tale of Belle, a beautiful, bookish misunderstood young woman and the Beast, a handsome prince turned into an animal full of rage. To break the spell, the Beast must learn to love and be loved and so we follow the pair on their musical journey of enlightenment. It’s a feel-good production that works beautifully on the stage. With stunning costumes, sets and voices, this show stands out as one of the best. Courtney Stapleton as Belle was utterly enchanting with a powerful voice and gentle charm. Emmanuel Kojo as the Beast was very impressive with a beautiful soulful voice and commanding presence. The enchanted objects are huge fun - the candle Lumiere, played by Gavin Lee, was fantastic, and he and Cogsworth the clock, played by Nigel Richards, make for a very entertaining

double-act bringing the house down with their comedic timing and witty lines. Gaston, played by Tom Senior, steals the show in his scenes. In particular, in his namesakes’ number, he works brilliantly with the superb ensemble and Le Fou, played by to create a mesmerising routine, reminded me of the talents of Dick Van Dyke in The Old Bamboo, performed in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Mrs Potts, played by Sam Bailey was lovely, with a strong voice and super performance. Wardrobe, played by Samantha Bingley, Babette by Emma Caffrey, Le Fou by Louis Stockil, Maurice by Martin Ball, and Chip all played their roles well with charm and beautiful voices throughout. What impressed me most however was the often-forgotten ensemble. Wow! They blew me away. The ladies in particular with their multiple costume changes, acrobatics, high kicks, splits and wonderful performances. They really made the show with brilliant musical support and amazing dance performances. We left the show talking about

Jacqui Ham: our theatre and entertainment luvver!

Where Love Island meets Eastenders By Jacqui Ham, Acting Out emember, remember the 5th of November they say but to be honest there are plenty of other brilliant theatre days to be had in November too… Scary Mary: Living Spit are at The Tobacco Factory with Frankenstein the Musical their unique take on Mary Shelley’s gothic horror. Music, puppets, and desperate dance moves – this show will have you in stiches! It runs from November 2-13. Visit: tobaccofactorytheatres.com Improvised: Also back is the hilarious improvised Soap Opera at The Wardrobe Theatre: Closer Each Day. This uplifting comedy is packed with drama, romance and big laughs! Think Eastenders meets The League of Gentlemen via Love Island. Who knows what will happen? Running now till December 6. Visit: thewardrobetheatre.com

Good Morning Baltimore! Hairspray is coming to the Hippodrome. The hit West-End musical with heroine Tracy Turnblad fighting for liberation, tolerance and unity. It runs from November 22-27. Visit: https://www.atgtickets. com/shows/hairspray-the-musical/ bristol-hippodrome/ Next month look out for as many shiny, tinselly Christmas shows as I can mention! Top pick: Closer Each Day – The Improvised Soap Opera at The Wardrobe Theatre in Bristol until December 6.

our favourite parts but had too many to decide. Awesome, beautiful, and unforgettable. Thank you for such a great night Ruth Drury

Priscilla – Queen of The Desert, Bristol Hippodrome Crikey Matey – ain't she a beaut! From start to finish I was completely engrossed. Having never seen the film and not knowing the story, I didn’t know what to expect beyond drag queens doing what they do best. But this show was much more. A sensitively portrayed tale

What's on at your local churches CHURCH OF CHRIST, St John's Lane, BS3 5AY Currently meeting every Sunday: • 9:00 - Worship & Breaking of Bread • 10:15 - Bible classes for all ages • 11:30 - Worship and Breaking of Bread Also broadcasting Sunday services (Zoom: 81091322934 Passcode: 134738) Online meetings: Tuesday - Bible Study 7:30pm Thursday - Prayer Meeting 7:30pm For details or help: Jason 07795560990 QUAKERS (RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS), Bedminster Quaker Meeting House, Wedmore Wale, BS3 5HX

of difficulties which exist even in society today, with edge of seat moments, fabulous singing, costumes and high kicks galore. The three main characters played by Miles Western as Bernadette, Nick Hayes as Adam/ Felicia and Edwin Ray playing Tick/ Mitzi were all brilliant in their own way, with beautiful scenes between Felicia and Bernadette which brought a tear to my eye. The blossoming friendship and more between Daniel Fletcher as Bob and Bernadette was really nice to see and left me hoping things go well for this fictitious couple! Rebecca Lisewski as Marion, Gracie Lai as Cynthia, Ronan Burns as Frank all played their supporting roles really well, with confidence and great performances. The rest of the cast were just as spectacular with a wide diverse cast and three very talented angel style singers. I was dancing throughout and loved the finale where we had a chance to really join in Would see it again tomorrow Thanks for a fabulous night darlings! Ruth Drury

Meeting for Worship, every Sunday at 10:30. Further details (and Zoom code for online attenders) from the Clerk at bedminster. clerks@bristolquakers.org.uk or 07929727259 (Barney Smith, Clerk) VICTORIA PARK BAPTIST CHURCH Sylvia Avenue, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 5DA. Join us every Sunday at 10.30am Church office: 0117 9772484 (answer phone only) Church email: victoriaparkbaptistchurch1@ gmail.com Foodbank emai: vpbc. foodbank@gmail.com Booking enquiries: bookings@ victoriapark.org.uk See our hall hire page for details (www.victoriapark.org. uk/hall-hire/)

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

43 Regional sponsor:

Join us at Ashton Court on Sunday 5 December 2021 Raise festive cheer in your Christmas gear!

WINDOWS | DOORS | ROOFLIGHTS

Download your FREE guide

www.pinterest.co.uk/crystalclearbristol www.facebook.com/crystalclearbristol

Aluminium, Timber, PVCu, Windows, Doors & Rooflights Plan your dream home

Visit Bristol’s Biggest Showroom at 24 Emery Road Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF

Call 01179 717 880 or visit www.crystalclearbristol.co.uk to find out more

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

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

November 2021

southbristolvoice

Thought of the Month

n BOOK REVIEWS Bookhaus' choice for: children’s fiction Out to Sea – Helen Kellock Overwhelmed by the loss of her Nana, Lara cries until her tears carry her out to sea. When she feels most alone, she finds a pearl of hope that carries her back home. Out to Sea illustrates that grief, like the sea, will ebb and flow but reassures that we have strength to cope with its currents. Bookhaus are launching ‘Saturday Storytime’ on 15th October, 10am. No need to book, just turn up for half an hour of storytelling (for 4 to 7-year-olds). This will be hosted every Saturday at 10am – children must be accompanied by an adult. Bookhaus is at Unit 4 Rope Walk, Bristol BS1 6ZJ

Fiction The Architect’s Apprentice – Elif Shafak I saw this book as part of the Duchess of Cornwall’s Book Club and can see how it has been so recommended. Set in sixteenthcentury Istanbul we meet a young boy, Jahan who appears to have travelled from a far away land with a white elephant called Chota – who will be given as a gift to the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.

Bedminster Library Bedminster Parade, Bedminster Bristol BS3 4AQ Telephone: 0117 9038529 Email: bedminster.library@bristol. gov.uk

With Graham Davey Bedminster Quaker Meeting Remembrance time has come round again when ceremonies take place to commemorate the casualties of war and no one dares to appear on TV without a red poppy. In WW1 there were about 350 men in the Bristol area who refused to join the armed forces, 86 of them were Quakers. These Conscientious Objectors (COs) had both religious and political reasons which were tested in tribunals held at the old Council House in Corn Street. Some opted for alternative work or army medical services but others, called ‘Absolutists’, refused to do anything that would release another man to be enlisted. Two of these Absolutists were Quakers, Roland and Sidney Reinge, who lived with their parents and siblings at 27 Oxford Street, Totterdown. Very few of the combatants who survived the war spoke of their experiences and the same is true of the Absolutists for the same reason – it brought back painful memories. Roland Reinge was an exception and wrote a memoir describing his home

background and his experiences from 1916 to 1919 in which he and Sidney appeared before three tribunals and endured three courts martial resulting in prison sentences with hard labour, served in four different prisons. Conditions were always harsh and each sentence started with periods of solitary confinement and a diet of bread and water. Those who refused to enlist in 1916 faced abuse and hostility as well as the hardship of prison. Their principled sacrifice merits recognition alongside that of the soldiers. After their release, the brothers set up a construction firm and built a number of houses in South Bristol.

a f fo r da b le

THE BRISTOL SOUTH SPACE PROGRAM Freightliner Terminal, South Liberty Lane, Bristol BS3 2SU

You can also find our award-winning self-storage in: Avonmouth, Bridgwater Swindon, Tewkesbury and Weston Our locations comply with current COVID-19 guidance

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

November 2021

southbristolvoice

nLOCAL SERVICES

Advertising on this page is very cost-effective. Call Ruth on 07590 527664

CLEARANCE SERVICES

AERIALS

www.theaerialman.co.uk

• Digital Aerials • Fully Guaranteed • Repairs • Satellites • Free Quotes • OAP Discount • Additional TV Points • Humax Recorders

GARDENING SERVICES

07592 003 Tel: 07592 506 003003 Tel: 07592 506 Tel:Tel: 07592 506506 003 1/4 Load 1/4 1/4 Load Load £89 £89 £89 Half Half Half Load Load Load £139 £139£139 3/4 Load 3/4 3/4 Load Load £179 £179£179

Affordable Prices - Reliable Service

0117 967 9028

BUILDER

Full Load Full Full Load Load £199 £199£199

www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk www.junkmonsters.co.uk

Call 07905 364353 for a free quote

Good Grounds & Gardens

Good Grounds & Gardens Specialists in wildlife ponds

MOTION PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 45 years experience Roofing Plumbing Carpentry Alterations Free estimates

07500 692206

Give your garden some TLC and call us today! No job too small!

ESTATE AGENT

Semi-retired builder

• • • • • •

Four Seasons Gardening Services

Garden, Clearance House, Garden, Office Clearance House,House, Garden, OfficeOffice Clearance

House, Garden, Office Clearance - all Plus all other Plus All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! House, House, Garden, Garden, Office Office Clearance Clearance -- Plus Plus all other other Plus Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! Plus All All Your Other Waste Removal Needs too! On-average Average cheaper than a skip. On cheaper than aa skip. OnAverage cheaper than skip. removal On average cheaper waste wastewaste removal removal -Average On On average cheaper cheaper than than than aa skip skipa skip

email motionmain@gmail.com

and gardens

We Sell and Let Property Like Yours

Regular maintenance or one-off garden One-off maintenance or bigger re-designs Specialistspruning in wildlife&gardening Seasonal tidying & wildlife Call to discussponds your garden’s needs work Private & commercial

07923 447362

07923 447362 info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk info@goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk

INVI www.goodgroundsandgardens.co.uk

CLEANING SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN

Griffin Electrical Established 1984

YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL ELECTRICIAN



• Rewiring • Minor alterations • Security Lighting & Alarms



SPECIAL RATES FOR OAPS



I work even cheaper if you supply the tea!



www.griffin-electrical.co.uk | john@griffin-electrical.co.uk

 

01275 832830 07831 534766 NICEIC Approved Contractor Member of Checkatrade.com

FLOOR SANDING

D. ATTWELL

LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES

All Garden Works Undertaken All Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Patios Laid – Slabbing – Decking Block Paving – Graveling – Wood Chippings Fencing – All Clearance Jobs Undertaken General Building – Garden Walls etc Drives & Patios Jetwashed & Resealed

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

LOCKSMITHS

NIGHT & DAY

LOCKSMITHS 24HRS Contact Dave Staynings

0117 925 6828 Mobile:

07765 208690 To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

November 2021

southbristolvoice

nLOCAL SERVICES OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

Advertising on this page is very cost-effective. Call Ruth on 07590 527664

PEST CONTROL

TREE SURGEON

Advance Pest Control



HAVE YOU GOT RATS OR MICE? WE’LL SORT THEM OUT



ALSO•Pigeons •Moles •Squirrels •Gulls •Bed-bugs •Ants •Fleas •Flies •Moths •Wasps

07771 503107

www.advancepestcontrolbristol.com BEST IN BRISTOL says threebestrated.co.uk PLUMBING

WINDOW CLEANING

PLUMBING

LOCAL PLUMBER • TAPS • WASHERS

••REPAIRS/BURSTS REPAIRS/BURSTS • STOPTAPS STOPTAPS • DRIPS • LEAKS • REPAIRS •• TANKS, TOILETS TANKS, • TOILETS • BALL VALVES TAPS, WASHERS VALVES ••TAPS, WASHERS • BALL VALVES • LEAD PIPES ETC LEAD-PIPES •• LEAD-PIPES

0117 9564912 0117 **NO VAT** **NO VAT** **O.A.P. DISCOUNTS** DISCOUNTS** **O.A.P.

RENOVATIONS

Advertise your business here it's effective and COST effective. Call Ruth on 07590 527664 PORTRAITS

ROOFING SERVICES

WINDOW SERVICES

SINGLEPLY FLAT ROOFING SPECIALISTS

PLEASE CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE TODAY

07922804129 email: info@bs3roofing.co.uk

Tiling/Slating Lead work Zinc roofs Copper roofs Sheeting & cladding Timber cladding Timber frame work Felt | Liquid |GRP Green roofs PVC guttering & fascia Roof maintenance Velux windows Chimney repairs Render Roof surveys

SnugSash.co.uk Sash window specialist • Renovation • Draughtproofing • Double glazing • Repairs • Painting We can fit double glazing to your sash windows! www.snugsash.co.uk 07736 229727 SnugSash

Got a story for South Bristol Voice? Call Harry on 07789 864769 or email news@southbristolvoice.co.uk

southbristolvoice

November 2021

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