Issue 410

The Week in
East Bristol & North East Somerset
FREE
Issue no 410
18th February 2016
Read by over 30,000 people every week
In this week’s issue ......
Former Kingswood girl performs at Super Bowl . . . page 33
Drum corps watched by TV audience of 112 m
Extra government funding for councils . . . pages 4 & 5
S. Glos cuts green bin charge
Keynsham barbers suffers more vandalism . . . page 15
Second window attack in 9 months
Hanham
Land for sale next to AEK-BOCO
Residents living in the Greenbank Road area who are
concerned over future plans for the AEK-BOCO Football
Club may have more in the way of change coming to
them if the owners of the field adjacent to the club
realise their plans to sell it.
The field, which lies behind AEK-BOCO and adjacent to the
children's play park, is to be sold next month by GVA
Bilfinger, who are the agents for the present owners, a
religious group called the House of Faith.
The House of Faith is in Baden Road, Barton Hill, and has
owned the field since 1945. There is still a meeting place at
the Greenbank Road site but in recent years this has gone
into disrepair.
It is understood that due to the declining age of the
organisation's members, the group now wish to sell the
building and land.
At present the site does not have planning permission. It
was initially to be used for sporting activities but it is
understood that it has not been used as such for at least 25
years.
GVA Bilfinger are advertising the 5.5 acre site as freehold
land with developmental potential, located in a residential
area with easy access to the A4174 ring road. They invite
informal tenders to be received by 1pm on Friday 11th
March.
2
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Willsbridge
Petrol station is granted 24-hour
alcohol licence
A licensing panel has dismissed fears that granting a
24-hour alcohol licence to the Shop'N Drive on Bath
Road would lead to anti-social behaviour.
The panel granted the licence to forecourt retailer Rontec,
which already runs lots of 24-hour licences at its outlets
around the country. The panel heard that the police had
been concerned about plans to halve the length of time the
business stores CCTV records but withdrew their objection
after the applicant agreed to keep data for 28 days.
Local councillor Virginia McNab and Richard Orton, local
Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, attended the South
Gloucestershire Council licensing meeting last Tuesday to
ensure that the strong feelings of residents and Bitton Parish
Council against the application were heard.
Cllr McNab said the parish council had lodged an objection
but people living nearby had not been aware of the
application until after the deadline for comments, even
though notices advertising it had been put up around the
site. She said it was possible that there had been confusion
between the application and a recent one to open 24 hours
a day. The parish council outlined fears that 24-hour alcohol
sales could reignite the “serious anti-social behaviour and
repeated petty vandalism” that had plagued the site in the
past, with residents fearful that the availability of alcohol
through the night would attract customers from a wider area,
particularly as Asda at Longwell Green closes at 10pm on
Saturdays and 4pm on Sundays.
Robert Botkai, representing Rontec, said that when the
premises' alcohol licence had been extended to midnight
more than a year ago, there had been concern locally that it
would lead to an increase anti-social behaviour, but that had
not materialised.
He invited those concerned to keep in touch and let Rontec
know if there are any problems. If there are, the licensing
authority has the option to review the licence.
Keynsham
Wombles win award
Keynsham Wombles, the band of litter pickers, have won an
award in the B&NES Chairman's Community Awards
2015/2016.
The award was in the 'Neighbourhood Team' category.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
3
Priorities called into question as
There was mixed reaction to Cabinet minister Greg Clark's
surprise announcement last week of a £300m funding
boost for local councils.
While Bristol City Council got nothing, South Gloucestershire
immediately spent some of its £1.8m windfall on saving face
over its green bin policy.
It all started last Monday when the Government announced it
had found £150m for the next two years to help councils deal
with funding shortfalls created during the changeover process
whereby local government financing moves from central
allocation to full retention of business rates.
emerged that over 80% of the extra funding had gone to
Conservative-run councils up and down the country. South
Gloucestershire received an additional £1.8m, Bath & North
East Somerset got £900,000 while £24m went to Surrey and
£16m to Hampshire.
In Oxfordshire, where Prime Minister David Cameron had come
under fire from both the council and his Auntie over cuts, the
grant was £9m. Bristol, along with deprived areas such as
Middlesbrough and Hull, received no relief funding at all.
In B&NES, the transitional
funding was welcomed but
according to Charles Gerrish,
the council's cabinet member
for budget and efficiencies, the
overall
picture
had
not
fundamentally changed. He
said: “Members of the council's
cabinet
directly
lobbied
ministers in Westminster to
secure a share of this additional
funding which we expect to be
in the region of £930,000 per
With the vote on the Local Government Finance Bill due on
Wednesday night, cynics believed it was a tactical ploy to 'buy
off' potential rebel Tory MPs whose councils had been hit by the
cuts.
As it was, the vote was won comfortably but it subsequently
The Week in
Greg Clark
year for a period of two years.
“It is important to emphasise that this temporary funding does
not affect the council's base budget position. Even with this
additional support, the council will still need to make £12m of
Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando,
Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields,
Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North
Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill,
Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge.
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Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA
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ISSN: 2052-9767
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Editorial
Stephen Rodgers
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4
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
£300m windfall is divvied out
savings over the coming year, and a total of £43m over the
course of the next four years. Therefore, we will continue to
seek efficiencies and innovative ways to protect essential front
line services.”
In South Gloucestershire, however, the Conservative-led
council's first reaction to news of an additional £1.8m a year
was to announce it was “slashing” (the word used in their press
release) £6 off the cost of the green bin collection service. The
charge was introduced by the previous administration in 2014
and twice the number of people anticipated actually subscribed
to the service.
During the last local election campaign, the Tories had vowed
to axe what they dubbed the “bin tax” if elected but since taking
control of the council last May the £36 charge has remained.
Last month they announced their plans for a staged reduction
had been shelved from the next budget because of the larger
than expected cut in funding.
While the £6 will eat up around £250,000 of the windfall, it is
also understood that one-off payments will also be made to
some council members of staff affected by the earlier decision
to freeze the Living Wage payment. We were awaiting full
details at the point of going to press.
Reacting to the funding news last week, council leader Matthew
Riddle said: “We were very disappointed with initial cuts to our
Revenue Support Grant. However, I am grateful (...) to
Secretary of State Greg Clark for recognising our concerns and
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
putting the funding in place
to make sure we can
continue to provide topnotch frontline services, look
after our most vulnerable,
knock £6 off the green bin
charge and still balance our
books responsibly.”
As part of that book
balancing process, nine
Police Community Support
Officer jobs are being axed,
library opening hours are
Pat Rooney
under threat and a 3.99%
rise in council tax was being proposed from April. This led
Labour Group leader Pat Rooney to accuse the council of
getting its priorities wrong: “No reasonable person would
prioritise a 50p per month reduction in the green waste charge
over libraries, youth services or PCSOs.
“Only last week they voted for a budget without this reduction
and their U-turn is only possible because of this last-minute
news. I believe that this short-term windfall - the funds are only
for two years - could be much more responsibly spent on
protecting services that are under threat.”
Councillors were due to vote on the budget at last night's full
council meeting (Wednesday).
5
Keynsham school is judged Good by
Ofsted for the first time in its history
Broadlands Academy in Keynsham is celebrating after
being judged as a Good school by Ofsted - just 18
months after a team of inspectors said it required
improvement.
Dean Anderson, principal of the 430-student school in St
Francis Road, congratulated students and staff on their
“excellent work” and thanked parents and carers for their
support over the last three years since the school became an
academy.
He said: “I have commented a number of times following our
last inspection on how I
felt that the outcome was
not a true reflection of the
academy.
Dean Anderson
“Eighteen months on and
with another cohort of
Year
11
students
achieving their potential,
Broadlands has been
judged Good in all
categories. Ofsted have
been inspecting schools
since 1992 and this is the
first time that Broadlands
has received a Good
Ofsted grading.
“All at the Academy are
very proud, particularly of the comments regarding our
students' behaviour, our rapid improvement and the fact that
in the last three years, students have achieved fantastic
outcomes which have enabled them to access the next stage
of their education or training.
“Broadlands is part of the new National Schools
Commissioner's 'Race to Outstanding' programme and the
Good grading is a stepping stone towards Outstanding. It is
also testament to us working together as a community to
ensure that Keynsham now has two officially graded Good
secondary schools.”
6
Andrea Arlidge, headteacher of Wellsway School in
Keynsham, offered her congratulations to Broadlands,
saying: “I am delighted for staff and students that their hard
work has been recognised.
“The report praises many aspects of the school's work and
particularly the role of the principal, Dean Anderson, who has
led the school's rapid transformation with considerable skill.
This is great news for Keynsham and for our Keynsham Area
Family of Schools (KAFOS).”
The inspection report says Mr Anderson provides strong,
committed leadership and, as a result, the academy is
improving rapidly. It says the academy trust has high
expectations of the principal and effectively holds him to
account.
Pupils' achievement is said to be particularly strong in English
and improving in mathematics and science.
The inspection team also highlight that pupils are well
behaved, polite and respectful and receive effective pastoral
care. “Pupils are able to thrive and become confident young
people at the academy. This is because the small size and
the caring attitude of the staff create a sense of 'family'.”
The report says the curriculum is well suited to the different
learning needs of the pupils and teaching is well supported
outside of the classroom by a range of activities that boost
pupils' progress.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Fly-tippers sentenced to
three-month curfews
Two men have been given home detention curfews which
will see them electronically tagged for three months after
admitting fly-tipping waste in Bitton.
This case is the first time that this type of sentence has been
given out for fly-tipping in South Gloucestershire.
Nicky Burgess, 28, of Neads Drive, Oldland Common, and Ian
Hannon, 49, of Clouds Hill Road, St George, appeared before
North Avon Magistrates' Court on 29th January. Both pleaded
guilty to jointly fly-tipping waste that was found at Brewery Hill
at the beginning of May 2015.
The pair were sentenced to a home detention curfew between
the hours of 7pm and 7am, which will apply every night for a
period of three months.
They were also each ordered to pay £500 in costs and a £60
victim surcharge.
The court heard that a property was being refurbished in
Coriander Drive in Bradley Stoke and Burgess was offered
payment to remove some waste. He arrived at the property and
loaded the waste into his van, then together with Hannon drove
to Brewery Hill and dumped the waste.
South Gloucestershire Council's Communities Committee Chair
Cllr Heather Goddard said: “Fly-tipping is a criminal activity and
this latest prosecution continues our zero tolerance policy. If
you fly-tip rubbish in South Gloucestershire, you should expect
to be caught and prosecuted.
disposed of at no cost via the council's Sort It centres.
Residents who see illegal fly tipping are encouraged to report
it by contacting the Street Care helpdesk on 01454 868000,
emailing [email protected] or visiting
www.southglos.gov.uk/flytipping
“This is the first case in South Gloucestershire where offenders
have been electronically tagged, which clearly demonstrates
that all means of punishment will be considered by the court.
“Residents are advised to only give their rubbish to an
Environment Agency registered waste carrier or they could be
held liable if waste is subsequently fly-tipped.”
Unwanted goods and household or garden waste can all be
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
7
8
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Letters
Increase in fly-tipping
Dear Stephen,
In the past few weeks there has been a
significant increase in fly-tipping
incidents in the Mangotsfield area.
In a number of these and probably more,
householders have been hoodwinked by
two men in a white van, who are
knocking on doors, and for a charge are
offering to take scrap items to a council
waste depot.
In fact the waste items are dumped
elsewhere, which in these cases are the
ex-Merlin Housing Society garage sites
in the area. South Gloucestershire
Council or Merlin then have to pay the
costs of clearing up the unsightly mess
such as the dumped mattress in this
photo.
Please can I alert all our local community
to be on their guard against this illegal
practice?
South Gloucestershire Council offers the
following advice to residents. Fly-tipping
is the illegal dumping of waste. It can be
dangerous, pollutes land and waterways
and costs significant amounts of council
tax payers' money to clear away. When
reporting incidents, please try to include
as much information as possible, such
as:
• Description of any vehicles involved
in the tipping - make, model, colour,
signage, registration.
• Location of fly-tipping incident and
date/time of incident if witnessed.
• Description of the material tipped.
• Description of any people seen
tipping.
• Photographic evidence if safe to
obtain.
Do not approach the fly-tipper, and never
touch the waste as it may be hazardous.
Cllr Michael Bell
Rodway Ward
Men convicted of fly-tipping in Bitton,
page 7
tiny minority of voters were allowed to
make such a huge decision.
When facing such a major change in our
local democracy, we need to consider
whether such a change will improve our
services, be more democratic and save
money.
Well, it won't save money as mayors are
paid more than any other local
politicians. They also run expensive
offices as well. This money could be
used to fill potholes or improve public
transport.
A mayor may appear more accountable
as they are the figure head of an
administration. But a mayor only needs
to have one third of councillors
supporting her or him, whereas a council
leader needs one half so less
democratic. I haven't noticed an
improvement in police services since we
had a directly elected Police & Crime
Commissioner, just more expensive
bureaucracy, so fewer frontline police
services.
The mayor holds the power within a
smaller group. Will Keynsham have their
fair share of representation as now, or
will that smaller group come from
elsewhere in B&NES? Previous
experience suggests that Keynsham will
be poorly represented.
My advice is vote NO. If it ain't broke,
why fix it?
Andy Wait
Deputy chair, Keynsham and Saltford
Lib Dems
If it ain't broke, why fix it?
Dear Stephen,
On March 10th, everybody in B&NES
gets the chance to vote YES or NO for a
Mayor for B&NES. My first comment is
PLEASE VOTE! It would be tragic if a
Sudoku
1-Easy
9 7 3 1
5
8 1
3 9
4
9
2 5
7
6
4 8
3
8
5 1
9 6
5
6 9 3
4 8
2
5 9
6 7 8
2
8
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
CHEMISTS
WEEKEND
OPENING
2 -Hard
3
2
Sunday 21st February
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park,
8
9 5 7
Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm)
Asda Store Longwell Green
6
(10am-4pm)
9
1
1
2 3 6
6
3 9
9 5
6
2
3
6
Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park
(10.30am-4pm)
7
Sainsburys, Emersons Green
4
Stockwood Pharmacy
(11am-4pm)
78 Hollway Road, BS14 8PG
(9am-7pm)
9
Letters
Craven Way traffic
monitoring
Dear Editor,
I refer to Mr Ponter's comment (Issue 408)
that a South Glos Council survey found that
the average speed on Craven Way is
between 24mph and 28mph. That is partially
true.
During
2012
Oldland
Parish
Council
received many complaints about vehicle
speeds in Craven Way and requested that a
survey be made. The survey report gave the
impression
that
vehicle
speeds
were
satisfactory but closer examination revealed
that during two one-hour slots, drivers were
exceeding the 30mph speed limit. These
hour slots were 8am to 9am and 3pm to
4pm. During both slots there is a lot of foot
traffic, which includes children and parents
going to and from schools.
Oldland Parish Council supported the
forming
of
the
Oldland
Community
SpeedWatch (CSW). The police authorised
and risk assessed the checkpoint opposite
were 12 visits with a nil return.
got nothing, whereas results of his efforts will
To date 6,815 vehicles have been counted
now show clearly the best we can expect
with 123 exceeding 34mph with 19 over
when making our choice.
39mph, this includes two driving in the Asda
He also overlooked the fact that all the other
direction. Yes, there is a chicane not far from
parties - with more than one MP - are
Howes Close but that does not deter some
satisfied with the status quo, Mr Corbyn and
drivers.
Ms Sturgeon would even welcome more
We are aware that the Police SEU (Speed
immigration and integration, so, despite the
Enforcement Unit) has visited Craven Way
Tory Eurosceptics, the 'IN' vote should have
on a number of times. The August 2015 visit
been a formality.
had 10 detections. Our reports including the
However, David Cameron infuriated Messrs
NIL surveys are forwarded to the police.
Corbyn and Sturgeon by taking the initiative
Your readers may think that there should
away from politicians and union block votes
have been more but the weather and
with a referendum and throwing Mr Rees-
availability of crew members controls when
Mogg a lifeline, because even in the event of
the CSW can go out. The weather over the
an 'IN' vote, any concessions gained will be
last two years has been atrocious. We have
an improvement over the status quo as far
found that 20 minutes is about right for a visit
as he is concerned.
because the word gets around that there is
M O'Regan
monitoring going on.
of all types of vehicles of speeding within
Supporting people with
dementia
Oldland Parish, the 12 visits mentioned
Dear Sir,
above means we have been successful.
Alzheimer's Society provides support to
Graham Downing
people affected by dementia in Bath and
Coordinator, Oldland Community
North East Somerset. Sadly, we know that a
SpeedWatch, C/o Oldland Parish Council
number of people in the local community do
The aim of Oldland CSW is to deter drivers
not receive any support, and we're actively
seeking volunteers to help.
can only record a speed when the speed gun
Why Jacob Rees-Mogg is
wrong
is pointed at a vehicle. Any vehicle keeping
Dear Stephen,
up behind with an offender cannot be
In Issue 409, an article on page 32
counted. To counter any inaccuracy of a
highlighted the issues a local Conservative
vehicle's
tolerance
MP has with the draft changes to our EU
allowance is added to the statutory speed
membership the Prime Minister has so far
limit of 10%, plus two. With a 30mph speed
secured.
limit, Craven Way's is 35 mph.
These are apparently shared by many in that
The first monitoring took place on 4th May
party - but we were not privy to David
2013, between 10.10am and 10.40am, 105
Cameron's explanation as to why he thought
vehicles were counted and five exceeded
the MP was wrong on two counts, so it was
the speed limit, the fastest being a vehicle
clearly no help in deciding on the issues
travelling at 47mph from the direction of
raised.
Asda. Including the above the Oldland CSW
However, I also suggest Mr Rees-Mogg is
has visited the site on 46 occasions; early
wrong on two counts. If the PM had charged
morning (before 9am) - 1; morning (9am to
in, demanding what amounted to a rewrite of
1pm) - 36; afternoon (1pm to 6pm) - 9. There
the treaty, he would have raised hackles and
Howes Close. A CSW has to be seen and
10
speedometer
a
We already have some wonderful volunteers
who support people with dementia in the
local area through our befriending service.
We are now looking for more people to
volunteer their time and get involved.
Our
trained
befrienders
provide
companionship and are matched with people
depending on their personality and common
interests. With the support of befrienders,
people with dementia are able to continue to
do things they love.
If you would like to know more about the role
of befriending volunteer and/or the services
we provide within the area please contact
Lindsey Dowdell on 0779 322 1226 or email
[email protected]
Lindsey Dowdell
Alzheimer's Society Befriending Manager
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
The surface of Hanham Road is, in a number
FA recommended run-off distances and
of other locations, breaking up. This is
does not restrict access to the tennis courts
despite a large stretch of it being fully
and rear car park.
resurfaced in 2007 with a treatment
Saltford Parish Council is fully supportive of
supposed to last 20 years. If residents have
the Community Association, the Pantomime
concerns about the state of their roads, then
Club, and the Sports Club which holds the
could we please encourage them to report it
lease for the land in question. The parish
to the Council or via their local councillors
council is a consultee in the planning
because part of the way in which roads are
process and considerations include national
prioritised for resurfacing depends on the
and local planning regulation and guidance.
number of complaints the Council receives.
It is B&NES Council that will make the final
Yours faithfully,
decision on this planning application. The
Cllrs Andy Perkins, Gareth Manson and
B&NES target decision date is 1st March if
Pat Rooney
the
Councillors for Woodstock ward,
beforehand.
Kingswood, South Gloucestershire
Cllr Duncan Hounsell
Council
Chair, Saltford Parish Council
no action had been taken.
Setting the record straight
After we had tried to find out why nothing
Dear Stephen,
Tories' political stunt is
cruel and uncaring
had been done, we have recently been
Contrary to the assertion in the final
Dear Stephen,
advised that such is the state of the road in
paragraph of the letter by Reg Williams in
South Gloucestershire Council is currently
Issue 409, Saltford Parish Council quite
considering an array of cuts to services
explicitly raised NO OBJECTION to the
because of what they call “a difficult
planning application for a storage container
settlement” from the Government. Tories
close to Saltford Hall for the use of the
blaming Tories.
Pantomime Club with the proviso that it is
The council is considering cutting £640,000
regarded as a “temporary” structure.
from the libraries budget, meaning services
The B&NES Council web pages for this
will be slashed. Hanham Library is a hugely
planning application notes that a constraint
used resource and if these savings go
is that the land in question is in the Green
ahead, the impact upon the community is
Belt. As far as the parish council is aware, a
massive, leaving the elderly, lonely and
storage container in a Green Belt location
vulnerable with no central place to go and
has to be temporary.
children with no way of developing their
Letters
Road surface
Dear Editor,
Could we please pass on to your readers
some information regarding a section of
Hanham Road, Kingswood as we have
received complaints about the state of the
road surface from residents well outside of
the area we represent?
At one particular location on the northbound
side of Hanham Road, just south of Bright
Street, a large section of the road has sunk,
the surface cracked and potholes are now
appearing. Since September last year we
have reported this to the Council but to date
The
use
of
anti-graffiti
paint
is
a
applicant
has
not
withdrawn
it
literary skills.
recommendation of the parish council. It is
Compare this to the plan to use the newly
important that the general appearance of the
announced £1.8m additional funding to
Saltford Hall area is not compromised. The
reduce the green bin charge by 50p per year
this area and around that repairs costing
Community Association is well aware that
per household. This is a purely a political
several tens of thousands of pounds are
the parish council is willing to look favourably
stunt - cruel and uncaring, bearing in mind
needed and necessitating full closure of the
at an application for a financial assistance
the councillor in charge of this decision is a
road. Because of the shortage of money and
grant for this purpose.
former teacher and school governor - does
that road closures require a minimum of 6
The parish council also asked that the
she care about education and the important
weeks' notice, we have been advised that
container should be positioned so that its
role that libraries play in this?
the work will not be carried out until the new
edge is a minimum of three metres from the
Carl Lander
financial year at the very earliest.
football and cricket pitch in accordance with
Hanham
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
11
Active Kids scheme returns
to Sainsbury's
Active Kids is back at Sainsbury's with customers able to
collect vouchers in store until 3rd May to help registered
schools, groups and clubs get sports and cooking
equipment and experiences.
The scheme is supported by double Paralympic gold medalwinner Ellie Simmonds, world record-breaking sprinter Jonnie
Peacock, Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge and England
women's football player, Lucy Bronze. The four ambassadors
are committed to encouraging children to eat well, move well
and live well.
Customers receive one voucher for every £10 they spend in
supermarkets and one voucher for every £5 they spend in
convenience stores. Over the years the scheme has grown and
expanded to help inspire healthy eating for children and
includes items of cooking equipment to get them involved.
This year the scheme has a new strand to it, the Taste Buddies
Challenge has been introduced to help parents try new foods
with their children. Richard Jones, store manager at
Sainsbury's at Emersons Green, said:
“The Active Kids scheme is a brilliant way for our colleagues to
support schools, groups and clubs in our local area. We love
visiting local organisations and seeing the benefits the
equipment and experiences have brought to the children.”
This year also sees the Active Kids' Paralympic Challenge, a
new initiative to get 2.5 million young people to learn more
about Paralympic sports and try them out ahead of the Rio
2016 Paralympic Games. By taking part, schools can receive
free equipment, online resources and the opportunity to win
money can't buy prizes, including a trip to Rio.
For more information on the Active Kids scheme and the
Paralympic Challenge visit https://activekids.sainsburys.co.uk/
Crossword
1
2
3
4
7
5
6
8
9
11
ACROSS
10
12
13
DOWN
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
23
12
21
24
7 An act of organised persecution (6)
8 Begin to grow (6)
9 Curly hairstyle (4)
10 Three-wheeled pedal vehicle (8)
11 Enclosure inside a courtroom (4,3)
13 Curved path followed by a satellite (5)
15 Bend forward (5)
17 Money put aside (4,3)
20 Jargon for a chaotic situation (3-5)
21 Muslim prayer leader (4)
23 '__ ___ what can the matter be?' (2,4)
24 Regulated system (of diet or order) (6)
22
1 Item of headgear (4)
2 Saggy (6)
3 A strong feeling (7)
4 Awake, on the move (5)
5 Act or religious observance (6)
6 Structure housing residents or businesses (8)
12 One who has developed a skill by themself (8)
14 The make up of an item (7)
16 A common type of printing (6)
18 A sudden pain (6)
19 Slang term for irritation or annoyance (5)
22 Ordnance (4)
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Keynsham
Growing food for the community
On 6th February, one of the wettest and windiest days so
far this year, Community @ 67 in Queens Road, launched a
new community planting initiative.
With the support of other community organisations, including
Keynsham in Bloom, Curo, volunteers and the St Keyna
Primary School's Green Team set about planting up railing
troughs and a planter while others planted narcissus bulbs
outside Community @ 67.
The planter was hand-built by a local resident on behalf of
Keynsham in Bloom and donated to the project. This is part of
a wider initiative led by Community @ 67 to improve the general
well-being of the community through making the area a better
place to live.
Martin Burton, chair of Community@ 67, said: "It's wonderful to
see so many local residents turning up to help with this project.
It will brighten up the area and the railing planters will provide a
source of healthy fresh herbs for use by everyone. We are
really grateful to the Green Team of young people for their help
and enthusiasm in this scheme and to the other groups who
have supported us.”
Volunteers donated cakes, fruit and refreshments to make it
more of a community event.
and edible flowers that have been planted will help supplement
the fresh vegetable bags that are sold.
Every Friday from noon to 2pm there is a food co-operative at
Community @ 67 and it is planned that the herbs, vegetables
Anyone wanting to buy the bags (£3 each) can call into
Community @ 67 on Fridays to find out more.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
13
14
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Keynsham
Second vandalism attack on
barber shop in 9 months
Sarah Miller, owner of Short Cuts in Keynsham, has a
defiant message for whoever appears to be targeting her
business. "A broken window won't put customers off" she
said, "in fact, we are busier than ever with so many people
calling in."
Her comments came after the shop window at her Station Road
salon was smashed for a second time in under a year. Just after
11.30pm on Saturday 6th February a man dressed in a blue
puffer jacket was captured on CCTV, walking along Station
Sarah Miller
A man seen walking by at just after 11.30pm
Road. Around 10 minutes later, he is seen returning carrying an
axe and with a balaclava on his head.
Last May, a man in remarkably similar clothing was also
captured on CCTV attacking the shop front.
For Sarah, while the incidents obviously cause inconvenience,
she was able to open for business within an hour and she has
had so many messages of
support both on social media
and personal callers to the
salon, that she hasn't really had
time to dwell on the matter.
At 11.45pm with an axe and balaclava
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
CCTV footage from the
incident last May
She told us: "I've absolutely no
idea why anyone wants to do
this or what they hope to
achieve. All I can say to them is
'business has never been
better', thank you very much."
15
New fire service HQ at Emersons
Green or Portishead?
The new location of the Avon Fire & Rescue headquarters looks
likely to be a choice between sites in Emersons Green and
Portishead.
While no decision has yet been made and still Keynsham
remains one of the options, it is understood the Fire Authority is
undertaking a cost evaluation between a new build office at
longer fit for purpose and would be sold. With Keynsham Fire
Station moving to the new facility at Hicks Gate, the Temple
Street site was considered a likely candidate for the new
building. It is believed, however, that possible constraints on the
height of a new office block, together with potential parking
issues, have led the authority to look more closely at alternative
options.
Redfield
Irish singing
star returns
The singer Tommy Fleming - described as the 'Voice of
Ireland' - will be returning to St Patrick's Church to perform
a concert on Wednesday 16th March at 7.30pm. Tickets are
available from the parish office, priced £17 each.
Keynsham’s old fire station
Emersons Green or sharing facilities and the Avon & Somerset
Police HQ at Portishead.
Tommy Fleming has over six million YouTube hits and has
had three million album sales worldwide. He last performed
at St Patrick's in 2014.
In 2014 it was announced that the HQ in central Bristol was no
Situations Vacant
16
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Emersons Green
Design and manufacturing
company now has staff of 24
Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore has formally opened HiETA
Technologies' new Additive Manufacturing Technology Centre
at the Bristol & Bath Science Park.
Over 60 guests enjoyed tours of the facility, including a live
demonstration of 3D printing and additive manufacturing in
action.
HiETA began with a single desk at SPark and now employs a
24-strong team of highly skilled engineers.
Additive Manufacturing (AM) refers to a process by which digital
3D design data is used to build up a component in layers by
depositing material.
HiETA Technologies is already exploiting the technology and its
patented designs are used to make lighter and more energy
efficient components for the aerospace, defence, automotive
and microgeneration sectors.
Situations Vacant
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
17
Hanham
Longer drinking hours proposed at Wetherspoons
Pub chain Wetherspoons has made an application to
extend the time it can serve alcohol and late-night
refreshments at the Jolly Sailor by half an hour every day.
If South Gloucestershire Council approves the variation to the
licence at the High Street premises, the pub would be able to
serve until half midnight on Friday and Saturday nights and until
11.30pm every other day.
The police licensing officer has not lodged an objection.
Anyone wishing to comment on the application can write to the
licensing department of South Gloucestershire Council at
Kingswood Civic Centre by 29th February.
Charity status for wind band
Two years after its formation, Avon Wind Band Association
is celebrating being granted full registered charity status by
the Charity Commission.
The association came into being in February 2014. It
comprises four bands with a total of nearly 90 members.
Between them the bands cater for players of all levels and
abilities.
The Phoenix Wind Band is the senior band with the majority
of its 28 players being of Grade 6 standard and above.
Members rehearse at Emersons Green Library on a
Monday evening. The Apollo Band caters for players of
around Grade 3 and 4 and meets in Yate on a Tuesday
evening. The Westerly Winds Staple Hill Band meets in
Staple Hill Library on a Wednesday evening while the most
junior band is Winterbourne Winds for complete beginners
and returners. The band practises at the Greenfield Centre,
Winterbourne, on a Thursday evening.
Currently the minimum age for band membership is 18 but
the association is on the point of offering membership to 16
and 17-year-olds.
Keith Hunt, chair of the charity, said: “We are always open
to welcome new members of all abilities and it would be a
fitting way to celebrate the new status of the association if
the membership reached 100 this year.”
Anyone interested in joining can contact Keith on 0117
9049125 or email [email protected]
The website is avonwindbandassociation.com
18
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Keynsham
Council leader to take part
in mayoral debate
Keynsham residents will have the opportunity to hear both
sides of the argument for and against an elected mayor at
a hustings in the town next Monday (22nd February).
The event starts at 7pm in the Space (above the Library) and
features Philip Raby, chair of the Mayor for B&NES Group, and
Tim Warren, leader of B&NES Council. The Rev Stephen
M'Caw will preside over the debate.
With the first ever referendum on the governance of the
authority due to take place on Thursday 10th March, results
from a hustings in Bath last week would suggest many voters
are still undecided. Around 100 people turned out in Widcombe
to hear a similar debate between Mr Raby and Paul Crossley, a
B&NES councillor and leader prior to the last election.
Before the debate began 45 of those present declared they had
yet to make up their mind. At the end of proceedings, slightly
more of the 'undecideds' were persuaded to vote for change
although the result remained close with 50% in all voting for a
mayor, 40% for keeping the status quo and 10% still to decide.
See also page 23.
Kingswood
Volunteering Fair
Volunteering Kingswood and the Kingsmeadow Community
Flat are staging a Volunteering Fair on Wednesday 23rd
March from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at The Park Centre,
Kingswood.
Meanwhile a volunteering drop-in service is held at
Kingswood Library every Thursday from 1pm to 3pm.
To find out more about volunteering opportunities contact
Rosie Sinfield, development worker at Volunteering
Kingswood, on 0117 9600376.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
19
Brislington
Warmley
Knife-wielding
robber jailed
Fundraising
events for church
A man has been jailed for five years and four months after
admitting carrying out two muggings at knifepoint, three
attempted robberies and a theft.
Two events are being planned to raise much-needed funds for
St Barnabas' Church in Warmley.
The first robbery took place on 19th November on Allison
Avenue, Brislington, when 21-year-old Deano Harrison mugged
a 43-year-old man and stole his wallet.
Then, on 21st November, Harrison robbed a 19-year-old man on
Bloomfield Road in Brislington and stole his phone, laptop and
some clothing.
The first is an illustrated talk about India and may generate
interest due to the recent series on BBC about 'The Real
Marigold Hotel'.
The event is called 'Monsoons, Mahal & Mayhem' and is an
illustrated talk by Margaret Fletcher about her visit with a group
of Girl Guides to India. It takes place at 3.30pm on Saturday
27th February at the church and tickets are £5 which includes
refreshments.
The second event will raise funds for the church's roof appeal
and is called 'A Roof in a Jar'. It asks people to use any jar and
to fill it with spare change (preferably silver} that they have
between now and 17th September when the jars will be brought
along and the money counted. It is hoped that £2,000 will be
raised towards the appeal.
Turn up the heat
for charity
Deano Harrison
Harrison, of Flaxman Close, Lockleaze, asked for three
attempted robberies and one theft to be taken into
consideration.
Investigating officer DC Ross Flay said: “Firstly, I would like to
thank the victims in this case for coming forward and reporting
these crimes.
“Harrison threatened both robbery victims with a knife and I am
sure these incidents will stay with the victims for a considerable
amount of time.
People with a burning ambition to challenge themselves are
being encouraged to walk over hot coals in aid of the Great
Western Air Ambulance Charity.
There are three evening firewalks - on Thursday 3rd March at
Lansdown Cricket Club, Saturday 5th March at Cirencester Golf
Club and Tuesday 8th March at Gloucestershire Cricket Club,
Bristol.
Entry costs £25 per person and every walker is being asked to
raise a minimum of £100 sponsorship. All the money raised will
help to keep the helicopter in the air, ensuring that more lives
are saved.
“These incidents naturally caused some concern to those living
and working in the Brislington area and I hope that this sentence
goes some way to reassure them.
The charity needs to raise £2.3m each year to stay operational.
It has been providing an air ambulance service for 2.1 million
people across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South
Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and parts of
Wiltshire for seven years.
"Finally, I would like to thank the members of the community
who came forward with the information that assisted us with our
investigation."
Last year the critical care team on board attended 1,655 jobs. It
is estimated one in five people who would otherwise die are
saved by the actions of the team.
Lions' quiz night
Keynsham Lions are holding their annual Quiz Night on 26th
February at Saltford Hall.
Teams of up to six players can pit their wits against each
other and enjoy a half-time cheese and ham ploughman's
supper which is included in the £7 per person ticket price.
To book call 01225 875917 or 01179 609446.
20
To register for a firewalk visit
http://www.greatwesternairambulance.com/fundraising/challeng
e-yourself/
Keep in touch, let us
know what you think,
send us your news
www.facebook.com/theweekin
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
21
ADVERTISING FEATURE
New Somerdale Pavilion provides the
opportunity to improve health and wellbeing
through sport, entertainment and leisure
The Somerdale Pavilion is a brand new conference, leisure,
health and entertainment venue in Keynsham, Somerset. Part
of the redevelopment of the former Cadbury factory site,
Somerdale's aim is to be at the heart of the community
providing a sports and social hub for local people.
Managed by the non-profit charity Aquaterra, the Pavilion has
an active membership that takes part in a range of sporting
activities including football, tennis, golf, cricket, bowls and
skittles. The building itself provides a number of function rooms
that can be used for meetings, seminars, private dinners,
banquets, weddings, social events, presentations and
exhibitions. A recent addition to the indoor facilities is a state of
the art gym and a varied fitness class programme.
The Somerdale Pavilion's schedule also includes a range of
community based activities such as our Somerdale Souls group
(tackling loneliness and social isolation), the cancer
survivorship exercise initiative, and the stroke rehab
programme. A lively social programme complements the
various activities on offer and members can enjoy a fun night
out in the company of their friends and guests.
The venue is open seven days a week and offers full catering
22
and bar facilities. Visitors are very welcome to pop in and enjoy
a coffee or a drink at the bar and we will be happy to talk to you
about membership options. Members receive favourable
discounts on our food and drink service.
For further information call in and speak to our reception staff.
Alternatively telephone 0117 9865787 or email:
[email protected]
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
B&NES
Last chance to register
to vote for referendum
If you haven't already registered to vote, the deadline to
able to take part in the forthcoming mayoral referendum is
midnight on Tuesday 23rd February. The referendum, which
takes place on Thursday 10th March will ask the following
question: How would you like Bath & North East Somerset
Council to be run?
By a leader who is an elected councillor chosen by a vote of the
other elected councillors. This is how the council is run now.
or
By a mayor who is elected by voters. This would be a change
from how the council is run now.
You can vote at the referendum if you are registered to vote, are
18 or over on 10th March and a British citizen, European Union
citizen or qualifying Commonwealth citizen. If you are not yet
registered at your current address, you can do so online at
www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. Those who would prefer to register
using a paper form, can download a registration form from the
online registration site or alternatively can request one by calling
the Electoral Services Helpline on 01225 477333.
Kingswood
Could you support a
local family?
St George
Memorial
planned to
late councillor
The St George Neighbourhood Partnership is
planning
to
mark
the
significant contribution that
the late Cllr Ron Stone made
to the area by arranging for a
permanent memorial tribute.
Cllr Stone, who died at the
end of December, served in
the St George West ward for
30 years. Now a task group
has now been set up to help
progress
the
memorial
project.
Any with suggestions is
invited to email [email protected]
You do not have to be a resident of St George to join the
task group.
Home-Start Bristol is recruiting volunteers in the Kingswood
area to work with local families who are in need of support.
Volunteers, who are parents themselves, visit a family at home
for two to three hours a week to offer emotional and practical
support. Parents tell the charity it really makes a difference,
giving them more confidence and helping them develop their
parenting skills.
Home-Start offers an accredited training programme with an
opportunity to gain a level 1 or 2 qualification, ongoing support
and training.
To find more contact volunteering Kingswood on 0117 960 0376
or email [email protected]
Staple Hill
Pre-school praised by Ofsted
Little Sheep Pre-School, which meets at Staple Hill Methodist
Church, has been rated as Good by Ofsted.
Effectiveness of leadership and management, quality of
teaching, learning and assessment, personal development,
behaviour and welfare, and outcomes for children were all
assessed as good.
The inspector said the staff were good role models and the
children well behaved. She said the youngsters made good
progress, had fun, and were well prepared for the next stage of
learning.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
23
MOTORING
Time to refresh your driving skills?
Bristol Advanced Motorists is hosting another free
'DriveCheck' day on Sunday 20th March at Yate Fire Station
(10am-2pm). This gives drivers the opportunity to compare
their driving today with when they passed their driving test,
as well as to pick up some tips from the IAM's top trainers.
Just a few minutes out to concentrate on your driving style
could give you a fresh approach and make you a better
is insured with an MOT. There's no pass or fail and no
driving records are kept - the aim is simply to give you more
confidence behind the wheel.
While the course is free, you need to pre-book a place Call
01454 619289 or e-mail [email protected]
'Too many learner drivers
using local roads'
Oldland Parish Council has raised concerns about the
number of driving schools using local roads for their pupils to
practise manoeuvres.
driver. We're all used to putting our car in for an MOT so
why not have an occasional test of our driving skills as well?
One person who has recently taken advantage of the IAM
course is Bristol East MP, Kerry McCarthy (pictured).
You need to be able to read a number plate at 20 metres,
hold a current full driving licence and drive a vehicle which
24
Brislington and Kingswood driving test centres have several
route options which they vary but parts of Oldland parish,
which covers the Longwell Green, Barrs Court, Cadbury
Heath and Willsbridge area, are used by both.
The parish clerk has been told that driving test centres have
no control over where instructors take learners but advice
notices would be put up at the two centres advising driving
schools to try not to be a nuisance in neighbourhoods by
varying routes.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
New generation Astra a big hit
Local Vauxhall dealers Saltford Motor Services and Dan
Harford have recently taken delivery of the awardwinning New Astra.
The new Astra 1.0 Turbo ecoFLEX Design has just won the
What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2016, award for 'Best
Family Car under £16,000', demonstrating its value in this
extremely competitive class.
Mark Thomas, Sales Manager at Saltford Motors,
comments: “We're thrilled to be able to offer the awardwinning New Astra. Boasting some of the latest technology,
it stands out from the rest as this level of specification
wouldn't necessary be associated with an Astra.”
Now in its seventh generation, the New Astra exudes
coolness, thanks to its savvy technology and slick designs.
With a stream of options, the Astra has high-speed 4G WiFi
capability, new-generation IntelliLink infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Driver
Assistance System - to name a few!
Going from strength to strength, Vauxhall also recently
launched the highly anticipated 'Yes it's an Astra' campaign,
which first aired on Boxing Day, and exhibits many of the
features that make the New Astra such a compelling car.
The ad was rolled-out across TV, cinema, digital, poster,
print, national and retail communications earlier this year.
Steve Wiltshire, General Sales Manager at Dan Harford in
Kingswood, adds: “The New Astra is the best Astra yet and
widely recognised for its superior performance, striking
interior and sophisticated connectivity which means it feels
more premium than ever.
“We'd like to encourage all motorists in the area looking for
a new vehicle to visit the dealership and see what the New
Astra has to offer.”
BRISTOL & BATH CAR SERVICES
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Unit 2 Pixash Business Centre, Keynsham BS31 1TP
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
25
Longwell Green
Children make a splash for charity
More than 40 children took part in a swimming gala at
Aspects Leisure Centre to raise money for the Cystic
Fibrosis Trust.
and afterwards the children enjoyed a pool party and
presentation ceremony attended by Star Wars character Darth
Vader.
The event was organised by swim manager Georgina Parrinello
Cystic fibrosis is a life-shortening inherited disease caused by a
faulty gene, affecting over 10,000 people in the UK. Georgina
said: “Cystic Fibrosis is close to our hearts. One of our
colleagues has two young children who suffer from the disease.
Whilst the gala was primarily to raise money for our chosen
charity, it was also to encourage children over eight to maintain
a healthy lifestyle.
“Swimming tends to tail off in older children and we want to
keep all children no matter the age active in our local area. At
the pool party the gala entrants were invited to bring a friend
along for free.”
Hanham
Good report for
toddler group
A toddler group has been praised by Ofsted in a report
published this month.
The inspector who visited Hanham Toddlers @ Hanham
Children's Centre in January said the effectiveness of
leadership and management, quality of teaching, learning and
assessment and outcomes for children were all good, and she
rated personal development, behaviour and welfare as
outstanding.
The inspector highlighted the strong leadership and wellqualified staff. She said the children were emotionally settled
and very confident, and that partnerships with parents were
excellent.
26
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
From Broadlands to the Wild West
Retirement can throw up challenges and opportunities. For
those lucky enough to retire early, it can lead to a whole
new way of life - taking up a sport, working in the voluntary
sector or perhaps starting a small business.
How about writing cowboy novels? That's what Chris Derrick
decided to do three years ago and his book 'Wagon Mound to
Santa Fe - the Search for Sarah' has just been published.
Now 58, Chris lives in Hertfordshire but was born in Keynsham,
where his mother and two daughters still live. After attending St
John's Primary and then Broadlands, he enjoyed a career in IT,
was smitten.”
Working away from home
and spending nights in
featureless hotels meant
there was plenty of
opportunity for research.
For the last five years of
his 'working life' Chris took
to reading as many books
as he could find on 19th
century America and the
'cowboy' way of life while
holidays were often
taken in the desert
States.
When he took retirement
in 2013, it was full steam ahead and his first novel, 'The Tainted
Dollar' - set in 19th century Texas - was published the following
year. Next came 'The Sheriff's Sister - Bad Blood' a year later
which continued the story of the main character Jake Base.
Chris in Arizona
working for major retailers such as Tesco and Sainsbury's. But
for a 'baby boomer' brought up on a diet of westerns on TV and
in the cinema, the seeds were planted long ago.
His latest book, 'Wagon Mound to Santa Fe - the Search for
Sarah', is book one of another story about Alex Sawicki whose
parents are killed by Apache Indians and his sister taken
captive.
All three of Chris's books are readily available on the Amazon
or Barnes & Noble websites.
“A trip to see Yul Brynner in The Magnificent Seven at the old
Ritz cinema in Brislington as a birthday treat was a big
moment,” says Chris. “But in 2009 I made my first visit to
Arizona and New Mexico and rode my very first horse on a
ranch in southern Arizona. That was it for me - from then on I
South Glos
Register for Sort It
recycling centres
South Gloucestershire residents who want to use the Sort It
recycling centres must now register their vehicle to access
the sites.
You don't need to sign up straight away, just make sure you
register at least 24 hours before your next visit. You only
need register once, unless you change your address or
vehicle. Registration has been introduced to help reduce the
number of people from neighbouring council districts and
commercial users from visiting South Glos sites.
There are two types of registration. Standard is for vehicles
of any size (up to 3.5 tonnes) that have rear and/or side
facing windows. Restricted vehicle registration is for
vehicles of any size without rear facing windows including
vans, pick-up trucks and flatbed vehicles. Restricted
vehicles are limited to 12 visits a year.
To register visit www.southglos.gov.uk/sortitreg or sign up
over the phone on 01454 868000 or at a One Stop Shop.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
27
UKIP leader
coming to Bath
UKIP leader Nigel Farage comes to Bath next month, this
time as part of a nationwide tour of events in the campaign
for Britain to leave the EU.
When he last visited Bath during the 2015 General Election
campaign, more than 1,200 people turned out and the 'Say
No to the EU' tour is most likely to pack the Bath Pavilion on
Friday 18th March.
St George
Crime update
PC Matt Clements was at last Tuesday's meeting of the
Neighbourhood Forum meeting to update open residents on
what was happening on the crime front.
He said anti-social behaviour has reduced in the last three
months although there had been an expected spike at
Hallowe'en.
A particular target for thieves recently has been car keys, which
people often hang up just inside the front door. Burglars help
themselves to the conveniently left keys and leave with the
stolen goods in the owner's car.
PC Clements also said problems with mopeds had reduced and
a new chicane, installed by Bristol City Council on Crown Hill,
had been helpful.
Residents are reminded that the front office at Fishponds police
station is still open, manned by clerical staff.
Mangotsfield
Table-top sales
St James' Church's popular table-top sales will be returning this
year on 20th February, 16th April and 17th September.
With a referendum on Britain's membership tipped for June,
local leave.eu group leader Dan Evans said: "It is a fantastic
opportunity for local residents to hear the positive reasons
for voting leave in the EU referendum, I would urge anybody
who is undecided to make the effort to come and listen at the
Pavilion."
Nigel Farage will be accompanied by MEPs from the South
West Dr Julia Reid and William Dartmouth. The event is free
but by ticket only from www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/FFMHJJ
or 0333 666 3366 (booking fees may apply).
28
The sales run on a Saturday morning at the church hall in
Richmond Road from 10am to noon and feature a range of stalls
including books, crafts, clothes and toys.
A breakfast/brunch menu is also offered as well as tea and cake.
If you are interested in hiring a table at one of the sales email
Shirley on [email protected]
Keep in touch, let us know what
you think, send us your news
www.facebook.com/theweekin
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Keynsham
St Francis'
Church Centre's
refurbishment
now complete
Guides and Brownies from Saltford were able to enjoy a
day of music and dance in the warm at St Francis' Church,
Keynsham, thanks to a recent grant of £10,000 from the Big
Lottery Fund Awards for All programme to replace the old
boilers and hall radiators.
The overhaul of the heating system was part of the
modernisation of the facilities which has included building a
substantial extension with new entrance, lobby, toilets and
kitchen, and a spacious meeting room above.
The extension will be officially opened at 2pm on Saturday 12th
March, followed by an afternoon of free activities for all the
family, including refreshments and a toddler play area.
Welcoming the award the Rev Andrew Judge said, “This is
wonderful news for all users of our halls and will ensure they can
meet in a warm and welcoming environment. We are now
looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible to the
grand opening on 12th March.”
The Big Lottery Fund supports the aspirations of people who
want to make life better for their communities across the UK.
They are responsible for giving out 40% of the money raised by
the National Lottery for good causes and invest over £650m a
year in project in health, education, environment and charitable
purposes.
To book any of the rooms at St Francis' Church Centre contact
0117 9863354 (mornings).
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
29
Abandoned and injured horses
rescued after being found straying
in the road
Two young horses are recovering at the Whitchurch rescue
charity HorseWorld after being found straying in the road
in Avonmouth.
It is believed that the horses, now known as Pilgrim and Grace,
were dumped on industrial land and escaped into the road.
Luckily, they were caught before causing a traffic collision.
This area has become a problem area for horse rescue
charities as it is commonly used for fly-grazing, the act of
grazing animals on land without the owner's permission.
HorseWorld's equine welfare yard manager Sarah Hollister
said: “We were called by B&W Equine Vets at 8pm on 19th
Joey being rescued
Pilgrim
environment. Just last week we were called to another in that
area, a five-month-old foal (Joey) stuck in the mud in warhorse-like conditions, barely alive. We have also rescued
Twiglet, found emaciated with a fractured back and neck and
straying in the road in the middle of the night.
“Not long before that we picked up Jack, a young colt used for
harness racing and left for dead in the road once he'd collapsed
from exhaustion.
“These are the lucky ones and will hopefully make a full
recovery but many don't. We are now full to capacity and the
problem does not appear to be improving. The recent weather
conditions have meant that the grazing has become sparse and
the horses are breaking out in search of food.
January to say they had received a call about an injured mare
and foal and the vets had agreed to take them overnight with
the help of the RSPCA.
“The mare turned out to be a two-year-old colt with multiple
injuries. The young filly accompanying him is believed to be
about seven or eight months old. She was uninjured but very
frightened and obviously has never been handled. Both looked
potbellied, indicating a heavy worm burden. Neither horse was
micro-chipped, making finding an owner and prosecution near
impossible, despite the law stating that all horses over six
months of age must be micro-chipped and passported.”
HorseWorld's managing director Mark Owen said: “The issue of
fly-grazed and abandoned horses in Avonmouth is ongoing.
The vast majority of horses we are rescuing come from this
30
“The amendments to the Control of Horses Act that became law
last year mean local authorities and land owners have the
power to do something about the issue of fly-grazing.
Previously, owners of fly-grazed horses had to be given 14
days' notice to remove them. This has now been shortened to
96 hours. Many land owners do not realise that when a horse is
on their land, the animal is the responsibility of the land owner.
If that horse escapes and causes an accident, the land owner
could be liable for damages.
“It is only a matter of time before there is a serious road
accident involving both human and equine casualties or even
fatalities. We are currently putting together a campaign to see
the law tightened up on this matter. Anyone interested in
following our progress can keep up to date on our 'HorseWorld
Trust' Facebook page.”
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
South Glos
MPs ask for more 'carrot and
stick' approach to recycling
Two local MPs have asked South Gloucestershire Council
to do more to encourage recycling in its waste strategy for
the next five years.
With the three-month public consultation on the strategy
document having just closed, Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore
and Thornbury & Yate's Luke Hall have written to council leader
Matthew Riddle to allow residents as many recycling boxes as
they wish and to rename the black bins as 'landfill bins'.
Faced with rising bills for using landfill sites and research that
indicates more than half of waste currently placed in black bins
in South Gloucestershire should be recycled, the council is
proposing to change collections of all recyclable materials to
weekly and reduce the size of the black bins. Black bin
collections would remain fortnightly.
The different coloured recycling bags, which often fall victim to
the extremes of weather, are to be replaced with one box in
which all recyclable material can be placed to be sorted by the
collection crews. It is hoped that by making it easier to recycle,
the capacity of the black bins can be reduced, along with the
current £4.5m a year spent on sending the contents to landfill.
In their letter, the MPs have offered advice to the council which
they have received as feedback from constituents. On recycling
they state: “We wish to make the case that South
Gloucestershire Council should use the opportunity of this
change to increase the amount of waste that it collects from
residents, giving greater value for money. To do this, we are
calling for the council to give residents who request it an
unlimited number of recycling boxes so that people will be able
Fishponds
Good rating from
health watchdog
Beechwood Medical Practice has been rated as Good
following an unannounced inspection by the Care Quality
Commission in December.
The recently published report rates the practice, which has
10,500 patients, as good in the five key areas - safe,
effective, caring, responsive to people's needs, and well led.
Patients told the inspectors that they were treated with
compassion, dignity and respect and were involved in their
care and decisions about their treatment.
They said they found it easy to make an appointment with a
named GP and there was continuity of care, with urgent
appointments always available the same day.
The report also praised the clear leadership structure and
said staff felt supported by management.
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
to recycle as much is possible, without restraint to capacity.
“A reduction in the black bin size, which we also believe should
be renamed the landfill bin, should be accompanied by a clear
understanding that people will be given the chance to recycle
more and more often. As a statement of South
Gloucestershire's desire to be a recycling council, then there
should be no limit on the amount people can recycle each
week.”
They have also asked the council to take account of people
who may be directly affected by the proposed changes,
particularly young families and the elderly. Concerned that the
reduction of the 'landfill bin' from 240 litres to 140 litres may
impact on households with young children, they have called for
a free nappy bag collection service to be introduced and for
consideration given to the elderly who may struggle with heavy
recycling boxes.
Mr Skidmore has obtained an Adjournment Debate in the
House of Commons next Tuesday (23rd February) to discuss
recycling in South Gloucestershire.
Longwell Green
Cubs in crisis
The Cubs section of the 46th Kingswood Scout Group
currently has a lack of qualified leaders, and there is a real
danger that the pack will have to be suspended until this
shortage can be addressed.
If anyone has an interest in helping to uphold the 83-year
history of Scouting in the Longwell Green area, contact the
group chairman at [email protected]
Lots of help, advice and assistance is available, and it is a
fun and rewarding use of a small amount of your spare time.
31
Vandalism spate in Hanham
A rear window of a car parked in Tyler Close, Hanham, was
smashed with a breeze block last Friday night.
The block was found on the back seat of the vehicle. The door
mirror had also been wrenched off.
The owner of the car, who lives in Court Road, parked at Tyler
Close because her car had previously been vandalised outside
her home. The week before, a van parked in Granny's Lane
had its window smashed and the interior of the vehicle was
gutted by fire.
The crimes were reported to the police who attended both
incidents.
Hanham
Public meeting
A public meeting will be held on Saturday 27th February to
give people the chance to discuss two big issues in Hanham.
The meeting at Hanham Baptist Church at 10.30am has
been arranged by MP Chris Skidmore. He has been
contacted by over 50 people concerned about cuts which
could see Hanham Library restricted to opening just two
days a week. He has also been contacted by many locals
worried about the impact of proposed floodlighting at the
AEK-BOCO ground in Greenbank Road, with many feeling
the football club has now outgrown the site and reneged on
previous assurances that it wouldn't expand.
32
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Kingswood
Dream comes true for Mollie as
she performs at the Super Bowl
The multi-award-winning Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps,
from Concord, California, were one of groups who performed in
the lead-up to kick-off at the Super Bowl 50 on 7th February.
And one of their members was a teenager with Kingswood
roots who achieved a long-held ambition by taking part in the
event, at which Beyoncé and Coldplay also performed, and
which was televised around the world to an estimated 112
million viewers.
Mollie Brownlee, 16, started out with the 37th Kingswood Drum
Corps but now lives in California with her father, where she is at
high school and performs with the Blue Devils. Her mum lives
in Weston-super-Mare as does her sister Ellie, 20, who is a
member of the Imperial Winterguard, the newest addition to the
37th Kingswood Drum Corps family. This summer Ellie will also
fly out to California to join the Devils, along with fellow Imperial
member Amy Follows, 19,
Staple Hill
Players present cheque
to Grand Appeal
St Mary's Players, who are based at Page Community
Association in Staple Hill, have handed over a cheque for
£1,500 to Wallace & Gromit's Grand Appeal, the Bristol
Children's Hospital Charity.
The money was raised from their autumn show, When I
Grow Up.
The award-winning Players produce two shows a year - their
main musical production at the Redgrave Theatre in Clifton
every Easter and a smaller musical revue at Page
Community Association each autumn.
Mollie Brownlee
Mollie remembers her time with the Kingswood youth group
fondly. She told us: “I had a great time in my early days with the
37th and you could say that they really set me up on the road
to the Super Bowl. Drum corps is a great hobby and you learn
so much. I used to play a mellophone.
“My cousins were also in the band, and we performed all over
the UK, which was great fun. We even won national UK titles at
a junior level.
“I am now fortunate to be a member of one of the most
successful groups in the USA and to start 2016 with a
performance at the Super Bowl has been simply amazing.”
To find out more about the 37th Kingswood search
www.37thkingswood.weebly.com
Their next production is Kiss Me Kate at the Redgrave from
29th March to 2nd April.
Tickets are £12.50. To book call the Box Office on 0845 519
9048 or visit www.smpmtc.co.uk/
The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
33
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The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
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The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
Croquet
Football
World Cup year
at Camerton and
Peasedown
Croquet Club
Keynsham slip
to 4th spot
Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club play throughout
the seasons - floods and snow excepted - and members are
looking forward to yet another exciting year.
From 14th to 21st May 14th CPCC will be one of the venues for
the croquet world championships with top players competing
over five days.
“We hope to see many people from our local community at
these events,” said Mo
Boys, the chair of the club.
2015 saw many new
members who all enjoyed
the wide range of social
activities and competitions.
Club members took part in
national competitions and
David Milford, after only two
years of croquet, became
English
Grass
Roots
Champion.
Croquet can be played
socially and competitively
and age is no barrier. The
club has four large lawns, a
club pavilion and beautiful
views across the Somerset
countryside
plus
free
equipment and coaching and a wide range of social events.
There will be a beginners' course on five Sundays from 2pm to
4.30pm (April 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th, and May 1st). Equipment
will be provided - all you need is a pair of flat soled shoes.
The cost for the five sessions is £25. Call 01225 708540 to book
your place.
Sudoku Solutions
2 -Hard
1-Easy
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The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016
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1
After getting themselves to the top of the Toolstation
Western League Division One, Keynsham Town suffered
their third defeat in eleven days on Saturday, going down 02 at promotion rivals Ashton & Backwell United.
The pitch passed a late inspection but neither side could muster
any opportunities in the first half hour on a boggy surface until
Keynsham defender Jordan Anstey's header from a corner
crashed against the upright. The home side then spurned two
good opportunities which were comfortably handled by Ks
keeper Ash Wintle.
The second half started disastrously for Keynsham however, as
they conceded two goals in the first two minutes after the break.
Although young subs Cam Shorney and Aaron Childs looked
lively, the home side ran out comfortable victors.
Despite their dip in form, the Ks are still 4th in the table as
attention now turns to two successive home cup games. This
Saturday (20th February) sees Barnstaple Town visit the AJN
Stadium for a Les Phillips Cup 2nd Round tie (3pm kick-off).
Then on Tuesday 23rd February, Street are the visitors for a
Somerset Premier Cup Quarter Final (7.45pm kick-off).
Sending sports reports
Please e-mail your reports to
[email protected] by Monday 12 noon each
week. Try and keep details brief as we are
sometimes restricted to space. Results, scorers
and/or an image will be fine. Alternatively you can
call with brief details and leave a message on the
answerphone on 0117 9860381.
Crossword Solution
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The Week in • Thursday 18th February 2016