THE WEEK IN East & North East Somerset

FREE Issue 555 12th December 2018 Read by over 40,000 people each week Fed-up traders wait 6 months for phone fault to be fixed Traders in who have been plagued by phone Bernard Jackson, who runs Fleurtations florist in the High connection on 17 occasions – the longest period being five connection problems for six months hope that the promise Street, says he and five neighbouring businesses have days. Connection was lost again for three consecutive that the fault is finally being fixed will ensure they have a been affected. days in November, which is when an exasperated Mr good Christmas. Since May he says he has lost phone and internet Jackson contacted The Week in to highlight the problems that traders have been facing. Mr Jackson said that when an underground service engineer first came out in May, he’d identified a length of faulty cable which needed replacing and had even marked the spot on the pavement. Mr Jackson says he and other business owners have lost trade over the last six months, are fed up with the temporary fixes and want the fault sorted once and for all. Openreach is a functional division of telecommunications company BT plc, that owns and maintains the telephone wires, ducts, cabinets and exchanges that connect nearly all homes and businesses in the UK to the national broadband and telephone network. Continued on page 3

Also in this Kingswood dog Why S. Glos exam New book about Spotlight on parents’ fight fears reignited results have been so 1940s Keynsham bad parking week’s issue . . . page 5 poor . . . page 10 . . . page 15 . . . page 16 2 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Fed-up traders wait 6 months for phone fault to be fixed

Continued from page 1 remind customers that they need to contact Their spokesperson told us on Friday: “A their broadband provider in the first instance; fault was reported to us on 22nd November they will then raise the fault with and our engineers were able to restore Openreach.” service to the customer on the Hanham High When we pointed out to Openreach that the Street within 24 hours. While investigating traders had first complained many months the initial problem, we discovered another ago, the spokesperson acknowledged it was problem with a length of faulty cable which frustrating, adding that it is often a needed replacing. complicated chain between a customer’s “We believe it was this cable that was communications (broadband) provider, BT causing wider problems in the area; the and Openreach – all of which do different initial works for this problem were jobs. undertaken this week and the cable should Mr Jackson told us it would be a good be replaced within the next week. This Christmas for all concerned if the fault is Bernard Jackson should then give the traders of Hanham High finally fixed but a shame it had not been Street confidence that they will have great done six months ago when an engineer had broadband service during this busy festive first identified the problem. Lane to undergo major clean-up season. He added that he had not been offered any Siston Lane for a day next from May until last month “If any further problems are encountered, we compensation or discount on his line rental. Council is planning to close week to carry out deep for drainage works. cleansing works. The most likely date for the As we have previously clean-up within a statutory Stolen van found torched reported, villagers have notice period of five days is A white Ford Transit stolen from Footshill Road in Fundraiser highlighted the enormous Monday (17th December). Hanham at around 9pm on Sunday 2nd December was amount of litter that has Siston Lane will be closed found set alight at about 10.15pm in Briery Leaze Road, accumulated along the lane from its junctions with for pre-school this year. The road was used Webbs Heath and Whitchurch. as an alternative route by Shortwood Road. The If you have any information regarding this incident, A 5k Santa Dash is being held on Sunday (16th) to raise many more motorists when closure is anticipated from contact the police on 101. Alternatively, you can call money for Pre-School. Road was closed 9.30am to 2.30pm. Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. In recent years the pre-school has organised a fun run from its premises in School Road to The Hollybush pub at Bridgeyate, but this year the Santa Dash has been extended to encourage more serious runners to take part. The 5k run from The Swan pub at to The Hollybush will set off at 9.30am. The fun run from the pre-school to The Hollybush will get under way at 9.40am. Anyone interested in taking part can contact Oldland Pre- School on 0117 9328411 or email [email protected] The entry fee for single runners is £10 or £15 with a Santa suit. All money raised will go to the pre-school.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 3 Kingswood gets share of £800,000 for new community buses A successful bid for for through the Local support to upgrade our £800,000 in funding for Growth Fund. service and our fleets and improvements to com- Replacing the oldest are pleased to see this munity transport in South vehicles in the current fleets, council and the West of Gloucestershire was wel- the new Euro 6 engined- England understand our comed at the council’s vehicles will provide a range vision for bringing Cabinet meeting last week. of benefits, from reducing public transport to the The funding, the largest ever harmful emissions, fuel community. single investment for the consumption and ongoing “This funding will give us district’s community travel, maintenance costs to the chance to replace some was awarded a few days offering an improved service of our oldest vehicles, previously at the West of for users and helping to reenergising the service for

England Joint Committee. make essential services and generations to come.” Janet Biggin, South Glos Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Transport Kingswood Community facilities accessible to all South Gloucestershire Colin Hunt, & Mike Vernon, of Kingswood Community Transport Transport, Green Commu- groups in society. Council leader Cllr Toby nity Travel in and Four Kingswood Community Savage, who represents the towards new vehicles across “This is the largest single value the administration Towns and Vale Link Transport Chair Cllr Janet authority within the West of South Gloucestershire. ever investment in our attaches to community Transport in Thornbury will Biggin said: “We are England, said: “I am proud community transport fleet transport and the role it benefit from the funds, bid delighted to receive this vital to see this funding go and is a testament to the provides across the district.” THE WEEK IN Donations welcome The organisers of a food cupboard set up at the Staple Hill Community Hub at Berkeley House to help people Barrs Court, , Brislington, in urgent need is seeking donations including tinned meat Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, and fish, baked beans, baby food, long-life milk and Corston, Downend, , desserts and instant noodles, plus little treats for children. Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Toiletries are also welcome. Green, , Marksbury, North Common, , Situations , Saltford, Staple Hill, Vacant Stockwood, St George, , Whitchurch, Wick, . 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%. Publisher Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381 www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767

Managing Editor Stephen Rodgers [email protected] News Editor Becky Feather 07973 839936 Contributors Christine Rogers

Advertising Jodie Deason and Tracy Broderick 0117 986 0381 [email protected]

@theweekineditor

No material in this publication, nor its associated website (www.theweekin.co.uk) may be reproduced without the written permission of Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd. All rights reserved.

Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd. t/a The Week In is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. As such, we adhere to the IMPRESS complaints procedure. A copy of this procedure can be found on our website or can be sent upon written request to the address above.

4 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Dog fighting fears stoked Big improvements at pre-school by latest damage in park St Joseph's Pre-School in Fishponds has turned itself around, jumping from an Ofsted rating of Inadequate to More evidence that dogs are being Good in just a few months. trained to fight in a children’s play When the education watchdog visited the pre-school in area in Kingswood has emerged. June, it received the lowest score in two categories - In October we reported on concerns effectiveness of leadership and management and raised by councillors that dogs were personal development, behaviour and welfare. Even being trained to fight in the Woodstock though quality of teaching, learning and assessment and Play Area by sinking their teeth into the outcomes for children were considered to be Good, swing seats to strengthen their jaws. the pre-school received an overall rating of Inadequate. And now a seat has been damaged The inspector who visited the pre-school in the church beyond repair in the play area, which is hall in Forest Road in October has published her report part of the open space between which says it is now Good in all areas. She said leaders Somerton Close, Wedmore Close, and managers have worked hard to make improvements. Glanville Gardens and Purton Close. Children are said to be well prepared for their next steps A South Gloucestershire Council in learning. They form strong bonds with the friendly and spokesperson said this week: “We are approachable staff, who know them well, and benefit disappointed to confirm there has been from a stimulating, well-resourced learning environment. further damage to play equipment at There are 52 children on the roll at the pre-school which Woodstock play area. times. dogs were actually seen hanging by meets in term time. “Any vandalism of play facilities is “If anyone has information about the their teeth from the swings. extremely upsetting for the community damage please contact our StreetCare Dog fighting has been illegal for more that use these parks. The recent damage helpdesk either by phone on 01454 than 180 years but the RSPCA says it to the basket net swing is likely to have 868000 or via email to still investigates and prosecutes Keep in touch, let us know what been caused by a dog and we would [email protected]” offences. you think, send us your news like to remind residents that dogs Last year a similar problem was Anyone with information can also www.facebook.com/theweekin should be kept under control at all highlighted at Kingswood Park where contact the police on 101.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 5 Festive drink-drive Dazzling display in Saltford campaign under way Saltford man William Coll spent three days decorating his house in Brockley Road for Christmas and local Avon & Somerset Constabulary’s Winter Operation children were invited to the big switch-on. Tonic campaign is under way, including high visibility His son-in-law Ian Etheridge told us: “He isn’t in the best and covert patrols aimed at targeting drink and drug- of health but still found the energy to put up this amazing drivers over the festive season. display. We invited a few of the local children around for Those caught driving over the limit face serious the big switch-on and treated them to a mince pie and consequences. Penalties include a fine of more than £2,500, sweets. a driving ban or even a prison sentence. Causing death when “He was desperate for it to be completed in time for under the influence may land drivers with a 14-year prison Saltford Hall’s lighting of the Christmas tree so the kids sentence. could see it on their way down to the hall.” Being convicted can have effects on everyday life beyond a As well as lights on the house there is a winter drink-driving fine or ban, which could include a loss of wonderland outside. independence, job and financial stability. Car insurance costs The lights which are on from 6pm till 9pm every night. increase significantly after a conviction and your criminal caught.” record means you may find it hard to enter other countries Last year’s campaign saw 146 people arrested. The police such as the USA. received more than 340 tip-offs from members of the public Supt Andy Williams, head of road safety for the force, says: who were asked to call or text with information about “Our approach to Op Tonic promotes education over intoxicated drivers. They were able to respond to three- prosecution where possible and our ultimate aim is to reduce quarters of those calls and all other information received was deaths, serious injuries and crime related to drink and drug- fed into future investigations and intelligence for ongoing driving. road safety management. “This year’s campaign highlights the serious consequences People are asked to call 999 if they know about someone who of getting caught by police whilst driving under the influence. is currently driving under the influence. In less urgent cases, Driving is a liberty, it’s your choice to drink and drive and in and when the driver isn’t behind the wheel, text 07400 doing so, you risk losing that liberty. Even being ‘slightly 279101 with the word ‘drunk’ and details of the car, location over’ the limit will still land you with a penalty if you’re and driver.

6 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 New housing scheme More traders asked to join raises host of concerns in festival Objections are being raised over plans to build six three-bed terraced houses Christmas on the Hill, the annual festival held in and in the back garden of a house on around the shopping area in Staple Hill on Saturday 1st London Road in Warmley. December, has been hailed a success but local The proposals for No 22 also include councillors, who organised the event, say they hope more parking for 12 vehicles. The access to the traders will get involved next year. new development would be via an They told last Tuesday’s night’s meeting of the existing drive off Goldney Avenue, Community Engagement Forum for the Staple Hill and which some local residents feel is too Rodway area that they also hope the traders will form an restricted to cope with extra vehicles. association to promote the area. And they say this part of Warmley is on the busy London Road, with noise and pollution from vehicles already an issue. Several objections have now been Building firm in lodged with the planning authority. One objector says: “This area is part of the South Gloucestershire Council Air administration Quality Management Area and is on 'red' Helm Construction, which has been involved in property due to congestion and pollution from projects in the Bristol and Bath area, including vehicles. Any additional vehicles would Kingswood, Downend and Mangotsfield, has gone intro inevitably make this problem even worse. significantly affected neighbours’ privacy. Flooding, as the administration. “In addition, turning off from Goldney Avenue into London plot of land sits on moist soil on clay subsoil, is another issue Steven John Parker and Trevor John Binyon, of Opus Road is already difficult and rather unsafe.” raised. Restructuring LLP, were appointed joint administrators The lane proposed for access is used by current residents as South Gloucestershire Council will decide whether outline of Helm Construction Limited on Monday 3rd their wheelie bin collection point, as well as for occasional planning permission can be granted. The reference number December. -based Helm was established in parking and they do not believe it is wide enough or adequate is PK18/5223/F and the deadline for comments is today (12th 2014. for such a high number of houses when parking and December). In October we reported on how controversial plans to put congestion in the area is already an issue. They have raised Keep in touch, let us know what housing on another site nearby, on the site of the former their concerns with local councillor Ian Adams. you think, send us your news Also highlighted is that mature trees which covered the site Merlin Housing Association garages at the rear of Goldney www.facebook.com/theweekin were felled before the application was submitted, which has Avenue, were withdrawn.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 7 Huge rise in recycling in School choir B&NES while waste sent entertains to landfill drops shoppers Mangotsfield C of E Primary School choir visited There has been a big rise in the that’s the equivalent weight of 820 rubbish has been sent to landfill. Sainsbury’s in Emersons Green on Friday to sing carols amount of waste recycled across African elephants. The latest figures were welcomed to entertain customers. Bath and North East Somerset The amount of food waste recycled has by Cllr Bob Goodman, Cabinet following changes to collections almost doubled, with 6,748 tonnes member for Development and introduced by the council last year. collected by the council’s recycling Neighbourhoods. Residents are now recycling much teams – that’s the equivalent weight of He said: “I’d to thank residents for more and as a consequence less waste 375 double-decker buses. embracing recycling and doing their bit is being sent to landfill. Kerbside While recycling rates have increased, for the environment, helping us move recycling has increased by almost a the amount of black bag rubbish towards our goal of becoming the first fifth with an additional 3,500 tonnes collected has dropped by 30 per cent. local authority in the country to achieve collected over the past 12 months – That means 8,198 fewer tonnes of zero waste.” New cardboard collection trial begins in Stockwood Bristol Waste are running a trial in keep cardboard separate from cans teams. The trial is focused on the Stockwood to provide residents with and plastics, which currently go areas around and between Stockwood an additional bag for putting together in the green box. Lane and Sturminster Road and will Keep in touch, let us know what cardboard in. Reusable bags have Bristol Waste say they want to see if be for residents who currently have a you think, send us your news been delivered to 3,406 households in this makes sorting and collection kerbside collection – those living in www.facebook.com/theweekin Stockwood for that householders can easier for residents and collection flats with shared bins aren’t included.

8 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 More despair over traffic in the lanes The closure of Golden Valley Lane at remain. Bitton for telecom ducting work has again Following a community meeting held in seen high levels of traffic at peak times Bitton in October, residents are waiting to through the lanes and villages in the area, hear back from South Gloucestershire not helped by the return of traffic lights Council about issues they raised, including on the A431 in connection with more the deteriorating state of the lanes, poor drainage works. lighting, and pedestrians and horse riders Locals say much of the congestion in the increasingly being put in danger from network of lanes around the Golden Valley inconsiderate drivers. is due to drivers who are unable or refuse to People also expressed fears at that meeting reverse. that Bath’s proposed clean air zone could And at quieter times of the day, drivers see the Golden Valley and villages avoiding the closed lane have been seen including Bitton, Swineford and Wick haring through instead. We flooded with traffic avoiding the proposed were told by a concerned local resident that charge of £9 for motorists to drive in the city last week a “middle-aged boy racer” if their vehicles do not meet low emission narrowly missed colliding with a recycling standards. lorry. And residents are bracing themselves for Earlier this year the long campaigned for more problems from 18th February onwards 30mph limit was introduced in the when six months of drainage improvement derestricted lanes between the A431, the work starts on the A420 in Wick which is Although the council has said that most of occasions when parts of the High Street in A420, Bath Road at Wick and the A4175 likely to see many drivers looking for an the work will be carried out under two-way Wick, between the junction with Manor though Oldland Common but concerns alternative route. temporary traffic lights, there may be Road and Court Road will have to be closed. Beware using unregulated Christmas concert A Christmas concert will be held at Keynsham Scout companies, warns law firm Hut at Ashton Way on Saturday (15th) starting at 6.30pm. Doors open at 5.45pm and everyone is A local firm of solicitors says it has £3,000. FDC Law, which is fully regulated and welcome. become aware of unregulated firms Ben Whelan, partner at the Keynsham insured, advises anyone who’s There will be an hour of music and Christmas carols targeting the elderly in the area, office, said: “Since we first opened an approached directly, often on the door performed by local music teacher Mary Sampson offering to set up trust funds to protect office in Keynsham, it has become step, to seek immediate independent and her students. Free refreshments will be their assets against potential healthcare increasingly apparent that there is a legal advice from a solicitor. available. costs. huge demand for advice regarding As a guide, FDC Law can offer simple If you are a member of Keynsham & District Dial- FDC Law Solicitors, who have had a wills, powers of attorney and care fees steps to preserve your assets for fees of a-Ride and would to attend, you can book your free branch office in Keynsham since 2011, planning, which is where our around £600 to £800 - nowhere near transport. Funds raised from the concert will be say these firms are charging significant experience can assist both the thousands requested by unregulated donated to Keynsham & District Dial-a-Ride. astronomical fees - often in excess of our existing and new clients.” practitioners. Sudoku SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 16th December Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, 1-Easy 2 -Hard (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm) Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Stockwood Pharmacy, 78 Hollway Road, BS14 8PG (9am-7pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH (10am-5pm) Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm) Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 9 ‘Toxic cocktail’ of problems blamed for poor exam results in South Glos A cross-party group of councillors has effectively replacing the Education schools. The report highlights that despite was that it included no councillors. The new drawn up a series of 16 recommendations Commission. In November 2017, in the fact that most of the secondary schools LSSB includes one councillor (the Cabinet for improving secondary school education response to continuing poor performance, are academies, the council still owns the member of Schools, Skills & Employment) in South Gloucestershire. the council’s Scrutiny Commission set up a buildings. Many are in a poor state of repair and the cross-party group considers this Exam performance at Key Stage 4 (GCSEs) group of councillors to try to understand the so a considerable part of a school’s budget should be expanded. and Key Stage 5 (sixth form) has been poor successes and failures of the Education can be taken up with repairs. Good teachers Cllr Manson told the council’s Cabinet last for a number of years, compared with Commission and to make recommendations might not apply for positions in schools with Monday that that the group had not wanted national averages. to contribute to improved performance. deteriorating buildings so another of the to make national party political points with The review has been carried out by a group Back in 2014, one of the experts in the recommendations is to investigate and its review but to do what is in the gift of the from the council’s Scrutiny Commission Education Commission had recommended consider ways in which the council could council to make things better. who wanted to examine the progress made that the council allocate £3m of additional secure funds to improve its school estate. The Cabinet will consider all the towards achieving improved attainment and money to the Education Partnership to fund The cross-party group also felt that one of recommendations and report back within progress for all students in the area. additional work in priority areas. The actual the weaknesses of the Education Partnership three months. Cllr Gareth Manson, who chaired the group, allocation was £400,000, and that was taken said it had found that a “toxic cocktail” of from the existing schools budget. No low funding and a relative lack of good or additional funding was actually provided by Plans to replace cottage with outstanding schools in the district to support the council for the work of the Education weaker ones has contributed to poor exam Partnership. apartment block are rejected performance. As part of their research, the group Plans to demolish the The group stresses that it does not want the interviewed the council’s education chief, a cottage on the corner of relatively low funding of secondary schools representative of the South Glos Education North Street and Cowhorn in South Glos to be offered as the whole Commission, the chief executive officers of Hill in Oldland Common explanation for poor performance, rather multi-academy trusts that run schools in and build a three-storey than as part of the explanation. Other local South Gloucestershire, and a representative apartment block have been authorities with relatively low funding of the Regional Schools Commissioner. The rejected by South perform better, and low funding does not report says that witnesses indicated that the Gloucestershire Council. seem to adversely affect performance in recommendations of the Education Tradex Developments Ltd primary schools in South Glos. Commission were not adapted to a changing sought outline planning permission to demolish the More than five years ago, in response to the education environment. They suggest that “unlisted” building and poor performance of secondary schools, the they were made for an education replace it with seven council set up the independent South environment with a significant proportion of apartments and parking for Gloucestershire Education Commission to schools in local authority control, rather than six vehicles. try to improve things. In early 2014 the one with a significant number of academies There were 18 letters of Education Commission published a report, away from local authority control. objection citing concerns which included 14 recommendations, and in The council has already been lobbying the including overdevelopment, parking, loss proposed block as “mediocre”. June of that year the South Glos Education Government for more funding for schools, of a locally listed cottage and access. The Highways officers objected as there was Partnership was formed to take forward and one of the 16 recommendations from the plans were criticised by the conservation insufficient parking and lack of details those recommendations. It was scheduled to cross-party group is that the Government is officer who said No 5 is on the council’s about site access. complete its work in three years. However, lobbied to provide additional money for list of buildings that are considered to With known mining works in the area, the exam performance did not improve. schools in local authorities with a) poor make a significance contribution to the Coal Authority also objected as a risk In September 2017 the South Glos Local performance, b) relatively low funds and c) character of the area. He described the assessment report had not been submitted. School Standards Board (LSSB) was set up, a relative lack of good or outstanding

10 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 LETTERS

I raised concerns over one- card, phone call or visit can make a real is still under consideration (Issue 554). This respond to some of the comments raised. difference. suggests that by carrying fewer passengers, the Yes, Anonymous reader and Des Ward, you way system If you have M.E and you need information and company would increase its profits. How much have missed something here, in the planning Dear Editor support, call us on 0117 9279551 (we’re here further can this idea go? Would having no application by Lidl (see point 5.13) it states: In response to the letter by Mr Charles in Issue until 4pm on Friday 21st December, and re-open customers on the whole route maximise the "The applicant proposes a maximum stay of two 553 – ‘Councillors don't share our concerns’, I 10am on Monday 7th January) – or visit amount paid to shareholders? hours car parking FOR TOWN CENTRE would like to state that as a Liberal Democrat www.actionforme.org.uk/you-are-not-alone. With fewer buses to take us to Bristol and Bath, USERS, AS WELL AS CUSTOMERS OF THE town councillor, I did strongly oppose the one- Our M.E Friends online forum is open there will be more taxis going to and from the PROPOSED RETAIL UNIT." I agree that a way system that has now been passed. throughout the festive period; to register, visit airport and more cars on the roads. But wouldn’t two-hour limit was imposed but surely some I did this by voicing my concerns at a town www.actionforme.org.uk/MEfriends online this increase the congestion that is hampering leniency could be given to the less agile council meeting and talking to B&NES officers Sonya Chowdhury Bath Bus Company? members of the community. Was I wrong in at length in the High Street. Chief Executive, Action for M.E Well, I could complete the survey. Wait a assuming Lidl were in agreement that I made two points - that many I had spoken to 42 Temple Street, Keynsham minute, this does not ask for sufficient Kingswood shoppers could use the car park AS thought that the one-way system was creating a information from people who use the buses to WELL AS their customers? bottleneck at both ends of the High Street, Wallet safely returned both the airport and, separately, to other places, Yes, Anonymous, there is another good pay-to- particularly on the approach to Bath Hill, and Dear Editor and fails to ask how frequently we travel. Oh park nearby for Specsavers and Boots but, the possibility that the airport bus would be I would like to say a big 'Thank You' to the kind dear, where is the logic in all this? knowing I would have some heavy shopping redirected out of the High Street, leaving many lady who, on Saturday 30th November, found John Aldridge from Lidl, I chose the nearest car park for that residents with a much poorer bus service, my wallet and handed it in to the Keynsham facility. I wouldn't consider my visit as "doing a particularly to Bath. Police Centre in Ashmead Road - and to the Shoebox gifts spread love, tour of Kingswood" and I didn't “grab a few Admittedly this hasn't happened at the time of police for returning it to me that evening. items” from Lidl if you consider two large writing, but if in fact it happened in the not to joy and hope Thank you again, and a Merry Christmas. shopping bags a "few" ! Between my husband distant future, those who proposed this scheme Dear Sir Brian Cooper, Saltford and myself we could not have managed the might yet have something strong to answer for. As the Operation Christmas Child campaign heavy load back to the other car park and I David Brassington closes for 2018, I can tell you that we loaded wouldn't consider taking a Lidl trolley all that Make sure you have your 4,827 shoeboxes on a lorry destined for the way either. I also need a car to shop as I only say on A4 bus service Ukraine. have the use of a sparse country bus service. 19A services are still Dear Stephen This load was joined by another 5,791 from Des Ward implied I should have refused to pay running late I hope that all those who use the A4 bus either North Bristol, sending a total of 10,618 shoebox the fine but unfortunately I didn't feel I could Dear Sir occasionally or regularly fill in one of the gifts from Bristol, Bath and Weston. These gifts take a risk of a £90 fine or a court appearance The 19A bus is still a nightmare. When I phone customer survey forms you mentioned in Issue will each be a blessing to the child that receives as he might do. I will be interested to hear how up the company I’m told it’s due to traffic and 554. It would be a great loss to many in it, filled with love, joy, hope and the knowledge many drivers have gone down this route and roadworks, which may be true for the 9.17am Keynsham who use this bus for journeys into that they are loved by you and God. won. from North Common to Keynsham, at rush hour Bath. Many thanks to everyone for all your hard work It isn't my choice to stop shopping at Lidl in time, but I fail to see how it can be the same all I understand that the congestion in Brislington/ this year. We look forward to seeing you again Kingswood as I agree it is an excellent shop but the way throughout the day! Callington Road area affects the timetable but in the new year at our first event which will be I don't want to be clock watching as I browse, I suggest to James Freeman of First Bus to cannot see why customers in Keynsham should our thank you celebration on Sunday 24th shop and pay for my purchases there. The change the timetable to reflect this issue. be penalised. Since the 38 First bus was February at 6.30pm where we will celebrate all traders in Kingswood High Street are going to Mrs Tsang discontinued, the fast growing town of that we have done and hear stories about some suffer as well as I used to regularly shop there. Keynsham really does depend on this service. of the shoebox journeys. Oh, how I would like to relax, laugh and open a With concerns about congestion and pollution, With every blessing for a great Christmas and a Reach out to those bottle of bubbly, but now I am stressed out how the provision of good transport is vital. I peaceful new year. suffering from M.E I can manage on minus £45 for my Christmas wonder what act our BAN&ES councillors are Canon Sue Farrance & Pat Alexander Dear Editor shopping bill. Is Des so affluent that he is taking on our behalf? In the meantime, Operation Christmas Child For most people, Christmas is about celebrating offering the less well-off a glass of bubbly PLEASE fill out and return the form! South Bristol, Keynsham and Bath with friends and family; however, many people Hazel Powe, Keynsham (oops, no good for me I can't drink and drive)! with the chronic, debilitating illness M.E tell us Meantime I hope Anonymous and Des Ward they feel very lonely and isolated at this time of Allow the less agile some remain as agile in their 80s as they seem to be year – particularly the one in four who are so More information needed leniency please now and I wish them both a very Merry severely ill that they are bed- or house-bound. for bus survey Dear Editor Christmas and good health. If you know someone with M.E, consider Dear Stephen In reply to readers’ letters regarding the car AG reaching out to them this Christmas – a simple So the routing of the A4 bus through Keynsham parking in Lidl's car park, I would like to

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 11 Developers choose cool Residents encouraged to shape their Danish name for new village’s future Pucklechurch is creating a Neighbourhood Plan; a Keynsham housing estate document that can influence planning in the area, and the team behind it are contacting residents to be part of the You may have heard of the cosy Danish trend ‘hygge’ creation of it by responding to a survey. - even if you’re not quite sure how to pronounce it! It will cover the topics of housing, transport, According to Oxford Dictionaries, it’s “a quality of employment, services and facilities, and environment and open space. cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a The survey can be completed online at feeling of contentment or well-being” and many books https://tinyurl.com/y8ep3cfe or people can request a have been written in the last couple of years about how to paper copy by calling 0117 9374437 or from the make your life more ‘hygge’. newsagent in Pucklechurch or the Bridge Inn at Now developers Crest Nicholson have tapped into this Shortwood. lifestyle trend by naming the new green-field development Survey responses must be returned by 14th January going up near the Broadmead roundabout in Keynsham ‘Hygge Park’. They tell us it’s pronounced ‘Hoo-gah’ Park and high-end properties here will cost more than £800,000. We quizzed them about their choice of name as it does not Carols old and new appear to have any connection to the local area, unlike The St George Singers’ main Christmas concert will be their other developments in the region, such as Langford at Holy Trinity Church in Kingswood High Street on Fields at Langford, Village at Charfield and Tuesday 18th December at 7.30pm Kingswood Fields at Kingswood (near Wotton-under- Accompanied by organist John Cottle, the concert will Edge). contain a mixture of carols old and new, with plenty of They said: “Hygge Park has been aptly named with the opportunity for audience participation. Danish concept of comfort and wellbeing in mind, with Entry to the concert is free. Free refreshments will be served during the interval. the homes expertly designed to suit a modern lifestyle. Free car parking is available in the church car park. The open-living layouts encourage free movement A retiring collection will be taken in aid of The Jessie between the generous kitchen, dining and living areas and May Trust. large windows promote a light and airy feel to the homes.”

Crossword

ACROSS DOWN 1. Cautious (7) 1. Client (8) 8. Arsenal (7) 2. Jewish leader (5) 9. Append (7) 3. Plant life (5) 10. Laid bare (7) 4. Covered carriage (6) 11. Pacific island (7) 5. Prayer ending (4) 14. Not at home (3) 6. Natural clock (7) 16. Door fastener (4) 7. Tudor composer (4) 18. Satisfy (4) 12. Small metal spike (4) 19. Egg-shaped (4) 13. Predatory canine (4) 20. Barrier (4) 15. Roman garment (4) 21. Sub-tropical fruit (3) 16. Icy rain (4) 23. Inflatable rubber 17. Sumptuous (8) bag (7) 18. Skill, expertise (7) 26. Supervise (7) 22. European 28. Be aware of (7) peninsula (6) 29. African spear (7) 24. Tropical vine (5) 30. Educational 25. Express an opinion (5) institution (7) 26. Spoken (4) 27. Wise person (4)

12 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Educational achievements recognised at awards ceremony An awards evening to celebrate the outstanding already volunteering to support educational achievements and successes over the past disabled children in swimming year of more than 100 pupils and staff from secondary classes and has continued her caring schools in South Gloucestershire was held at the end of approach, applying for the position November. of house captain in Year 8, which The winners and guests, including parents and carers, were she successfully achieved, and then invited to Aerospace Bristol for the South Gloucestershire participating fully in all aspects of Secondary Education Awards 2018, an opportunity to charity fundraising at the school. acknowledge the hard work of youngsters across Key Stages Teachers and school staff award- 3, 4 and 5, as well as the dedication of teachers and staff who winners included Downend School’s have helped make this possible. Caroline Baxter, who was Those receiving awards were nominated directly by their nominated to receive the award on peers and heads in each of the schools. The categories behalf of the school’s student covered were outstanding progress, outstanding contribution support centre, which was set up in Pic credit: ©photojB to a school and the wider community, and also staff who have January and has been hugely made an exceptional contribution to improving outcomes for successful in providing a central point of contact for students Certificates and £50 Mall gift vouchers were presented to students. and staff for a wide range of pastoral issues. each award-winner by guest speaker Claudia Fragapane, The 118 award-winners from 18 different schools included And Hanham Woods Academy’s Elliott Swanton was Commonwealth Games gold medallist gymnast and Strictly 13-year-old Lottie Johnson, from the Sir Bernard Lovell nominated for his energetic and passionate leadership of the Come Dancing semi-finalist. Academy in Oldland Common. Her outstanding contribution school’s PE department, which resulted in excellent She was joined on stage by council leader and Cabinet to her school and wider community were highlighted. She is examination results in GCSE PE and BTEC Sport. In extra- Member for Schools, Skills & Employment Cllr Toby described as “a model student but, above that, an curricular activities, hundreds of students benefit from his Savage, and representatives from the award sponsors UWE exceptionally compassionate and dedicated member of the team’s support and the school excels in football and netball, Bristol, Wessex Water – YTL Group, Airbus and Taylor school community”. When she joined in Year 7, she was regularly winning county, regional and national competitions. Wimpey.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 13 Friends of Hanham Mount wind up

After 22 years as an active group, the Friends of Hanham Mount have wound up the organisation. Hanham Mount commemorates the open-air preaching of John Wesley and George Whitfield which started here in the 1730s. Local councillor John Goddard, who chaired the Friends, said: “The group was started in 1996 when a group of local residents and some members of the Methodist Church banded together to form a Cllr Goddard added: “It was therefore part of Friends group to remodel and become the the decision that on behalf of the Bristol and guardians of the historic Mount after a South Gloucestershire Circuit of the building development left the 1951 layout Methodist Church, the Rev David Alderman somewhat isolated and badly laid out.” (Superintendent of the East Mission Cluster), At its peak, the Friends had around 60 confirmed that the Methodist Church would members but some have passed away while undertake certain of the Friends of Hanham some are now too elderly to be helping Mount activities, including the ongoing site physically as the membership had dwindled monitor, maintenance inspections and to under 20 members. Various recruitment involvement in any future remodelling of the drives were unsuccessful, together with the Mount, all in conjunction with South most important fact that it was not intended Gloucestershire Council.” for the Friends to pressure for any new £1,800 was allocated to repairs to damaged additions to the Mount, only to liaise with paving stones on the lower patio area and the South Glos Council regarding the balance of the group’s money is being maintenance of such an important historic transferred to the Hanham Methodist Church site. to be used on Hanham Mount. Residents’ association plants spring bulbs

As part of Mangotsfield Residents’ Association’s work programme to improve the appearance of the area, 200 bulbs have been planted in the Dame School grounds in St James Street.

14 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Tourist attraction New book shines light on to levy 25p charge on disposable cups Keynsham in the 1940s Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park in Keynsham Andrew P. Burnard has released a new book about his has announced that from 2nd January there will be a 25p childhood in the 1940s, describing the first 10 years of his charge for every disposable cup used when purchasing a life living in Keynsham. hot drink from the onsite Woodland Café. A West Country Lad is beautifully written and rich with local Guests using their own cups or using the ceramic mugs interest, history and anecdotes about family and friends. provided will not be subject to the additional charge. The professionally edited, 376-page, hardback book, size 178 The decision to charge for disposable cups at the park x 244mm, is printed in full colour and is packed with follows the Government’s proposed ‘Latte Levy’. Earlier photographs, maps, and images illustrating the text. this year MPs declared that throwaway cups should be A West Country Lad will appeal to people with an interest in banned by 2023 as an estimated 2.5 billion cups are taken local history, or who grew up locally or attended schools in to landfill each year. Since the beginning of 2019, other Keynsham, or who want to read an engaging memoir coffee shops around the UK have introduced a charge for interwoven with fascinating facts from the establishment of their disposable cups. the current day school system to living through the Second Oliver Smith, Woodland Café catering manager says of World War. the initiative: “We are always looking for ways to reduce On Saturday 15th December, Keynsham library is hosting an our waste at Avon Valley and we feel encouraging our event where Andrew will be signing copies of A West guests to enjoy a hot drink in a reusable cup is a great Country Lad, from 1030am-2pm. start. After growing up in Keynsham and attending Bath Hill “With this initiative in place, we envisage saving around School, Andrew graduated as a civil engineer and then lived 33,000 disposable cups going to landfill every year.” for many years in Kenya, firstly rising to become Chief Engineer of Kenya Ports Authority and then establishing his own consulting engineer practice which he ran successfully Keep in touch, let us know what for nearly 30 years. After retirement in 2014 he returned to you think, send us your news Britain and now lives in York, but he has always remembered [email protected] or by writing to Postern www.facebook.com/theweekin his roots in the West Country. Publishing, 30, Postern Close, York, YO23 1JF, and is priced A West Country Lad is available by emailing at £14.99, plus postage and packing at £4 if applicable.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 15 Residents highlight selfish parking by parents

Inconsiderate and dangerous parking by some parents on contact with the school and the police about the problem and advised parents that both the school run in Hanham has been highlighted at a told the Hanham & Longwell Green Community Hanham Community Centre public forum. Engagement Forum meeting last Thursday that after and the Blue Bowl pub have Residents living near Samuel White’s Infant School told how Christmas she will putting letters under windscreens, asking offered for parents to park they have been verbally abused and even threatened when parents to be more careful where they park. She says she also there at pick-up and drop-off they have complained about parents’ parking. Some have intends to include the schools in Memorial Road where there times. even discovered a parent’s car either blocking their driveway are also problems with parking. PC Lee Humphreys told the or even parked on it. Cllr Langley said the head of Samuel White’s had told her meeting that the police Hanham parish councillor Brenda Langley has been in that a newsletter is sent out to all parents at the beginning of monitor parking around local term to advise them that the community centre’s car park, schools and he urged people Public Noice which is a short distance away, is available for them. to take photos of bad parking Brenda Langley A school newsletter sent out at the end of last month also and send them to the police and South Gloucestershire Council. Parking on yellow lines has been decriminalised, meaning ‘Be more considerate’ plea local authorities now deal with this offence. Cllr Paul There have been an increasing number of concerns raised Hughes, South Gloucestershire Cabinet Member for by residents living near St Anne’s Primary School in Communities & Tourism, was at the forum and said that the Oldland Common over parents and carers blocking council has two parking enforcement vehicles and driveways and parking dangerously. encouraged people to get in touch. There is information on Alby holds the belt his dad won at the fight in Florence The local Police Community Support Officer has been the council’s website – search under ‘parking enforcement’ notified. The forum agreed to ask Mike Barnes, the council’s new The school has asked everyone to park with parking services manager, to attend their next meeting in consideration for local residents and other road users and February. pedestrians. The Week In has asked Samuel White’s Infant School if it And there are also problems of inconsiderate parking wishes to respond to the concerns raised. being around Blackhorse Primary School, including • At the previous meeting of the forum, concerns were several parents completely block the pavement with their voiced about the lack of a school crossing patrol in Abbots vehicles, meaning others with buggies are forced to walk Avenue in Hanham. A recruitment campaign has been under in the road. Parents are again being asked to be more way but the forum heard that as yet the post has not been considerate. filled.

16 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Kingswood MP is new Self-service at Universities Minister Hanham Kingswood MP Chris Skidmore has been appointed as for policy for the Conservative Library ‘by the Universities & Science Minister. Party. He replaces Sam Gyimah, who stepped down at the end of Mr Skidmore backed the Remain next summer’ November saying he could not back the Prime Minister’s campaign in the EU Referendum in The self-service system recently agreed for Hanham “naïve” Brexit plan. 2016 but in September said during Library may not be in place until early next summer. Mr Skidmore, who has been MP for Kingswood since 2010, a TV debate that if it was re-run, he Open Access was widely introduced to libraries across said he was “delighted and honoured to have been appointed would probably vote Leave. South Gloucestershire over a year ago, allowing libraries Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research and He was critical of the way the EU to open for longer periods without staff. Innovation”. had treated the Prime Minister and But Hanham missed out, seeing its staffed opening hours It is not his first ministerial role. He has previously been although he still wanted to get a cut from 41.5 to 26 a week and the introduction of the Minister for the Constitution in the Cabinet Office and was deal for the economic security of swipe card system delayed due to the need for additional a Parliamentary Private Secretary to the former Chancellor the UK that “we’re probably now fire safety measures so that people with physical George Osborne. His most recent role has been vice chairman better to do it alone”. disabilities could get out in the event of a fire when the library is unstaffed. As we reported in Issue 551, following pressure from local councillors to sort out the problem at Hanham as Visitors entertain soon as possible, the council’s Cabinet agreed last month to a solution which will finally enable the technology to be installed. An internal grille will be placed across part of the library to comply with fire safety regulations care home residents relating to emergency exit routes. Barchester’s Kingfisher Lodge care home in Saltford got in And at last week’s Cabinet meeting, the Member for the Christmas spirit in the first week of December. Communities & Tourism Cllr Paul Hughes updated Residents and guests enjoyed a fun-packed week with a visit members, saying Open Access will be installed by the from Saltford Primary School choir singing Christmas spring or early summer. carols, a Christmas church service and a visit from the local choir in Saltford singing Irish songs (pictured). They also enjoyed festive fare including mulled wine and mince pies. Keep in touch, let us know what The residents also enjoyed a visit recently from the 1st you think, send us your news Saltford Scout Troop who spent an enjoyable few hours www.facebook.com/theweekin talking and singing camp fire songs.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 17 Safety improvements on Troopers Hill Road

Work was starting this week on long- The safety of pedestrians using the entrances local residents for many years, particularly Road including humps and build-outs and awaited traffic calming work on Troopers to Troopers Hill Nature Reserve from due to poor visibility for those leaving the parking restrictions. Hill Road in St George. Troopers Hill Road has been a concern of site. Bristol City Council is planning to The council plans to construct all elements introduce short lengths of footpath on the of the scheme that do not require the road to Hill side of the road at entrance locations. be closed before Christmas, then finish off The proposals also include other safety and the work that requires a temporary closure, speed reducing measures on Troopers Hill such as the road humps, in early 2019.

Advertising feature An adventure park with a difference With the Severn Bridge tolls being scrapped on suitable for adults as well as children. 17th December, a trip to Cardiff, renowned for The ‘Ninja Warrior’ style assault course and its great shopping, attractions and ‘Gladiator’ style games are both challenging entertainment, is now ever more appealing. and exciting and there are also rope swings and One of the newest venues is The Inflatable tunnels. Arena, a place where friends and families can Business partners Phil Baker and Mike Bevan come together and enjoy a very different type were inspired to create The Inflatable Arena of adventure. It’s close to the centre of Cardiff after seeing how popular similar enterprises are with good public transport links and has a café in Australia. The venue is perfect for birthday too. parties, charity events, group activities and The arena on the Jubilee Trading Estate is a team-building days. 15,000sq ft space. With vertical drop slides, an The Inflatable Arena is 300m from the Magic assault course, mountain climbing, and a pitch Roundabout on East Tyndall Street, Cardiff and black maze and challenge zone, the inflatables has a unmissable giant dragon outside. Visit have been designed by the leading https://www.theinflatablearena.com/ to find out manufacturer in Europe, Airquee, and are more.

18 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Hundreds of pupils fill Cathedral for special carol service

Around 950 South Gloucestershire by a brass ensemble and the Cathedral organ, schoolchildren, teachers and a real baby with a varied programme of traditional carols playing the part of Jesus came together at and modern songs. Clifton Cathedral in Bristol last Thursday The vice chair of South Gloucestershire to recreate a special Nativity scene during Council Cllr Brian Allinson, who also the district’s primary schools’ annual attended, said: “The annual carol service is carol service. always a highlight of the year as it brings The main characters of the nativity were together so many children from South played by pupils from Marshfield Primary Gloucestershire’s primary schools. School. Other schools taking part included “It is a special event for everyone involved The Park Primary School and Kings’ Forest and it’s wonderful to see the children bring Primary School in Kingswood, and Lyde the Nativity scene to life with such Green Primary School. Music was provided enthusiasm.” Carol service brings communities together More than 200 tenants, The large choir from Everyone enjoyed a buffet residents, employees and Waycroft Academy were tea and were especially friends from care homes and invited along again to sing at delighted to meet and chat housing schemes of the the service and are also with the Deputy Lord Mayor charity Brunelcare attended donating Christmas gift of Bristol Cllr Lesley the annual carol service at boxes for Brunelcare’s Alexander. Kevin Fairman, Christ the Servant Church in Robinson House care home Brunelcare’s chief execu- Stockwood last Tuesday. residents in Stockwood. tive, said: “We thank the Rev Gwyn Owen for enthusiastically leading the service for us and Sunday buses welcoming us once again to his church. This service is an now running annual highlight.” Deputy Lord Mayor Cllr Lesley Alexander, left, joins in the fun A Sunday service is operating from Brislington Park & Ride on Sundays in the run-up to Christmas. In Issue 552, we reported on how Bus Users UK director David Redgewell was lobbying Bristol City Council to open P&R sites on Sundays in the lead-up to Christmas as they did last year. He warned that not opening them at this time of year would be a “recipe for gridlock”, particularly as Sunday and evening parking charges were recently introduced in the city centre by the council. The Sunday buses run every 15 minutes. The first bus from Brislington Park & Ride into the city centre leaves at 10.00. The last bus one back leaves Bristol at 18.00.

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 19 £492,000 Lottery boost for young people

A new partnership, supported with a Krunch South West, Southern Brooks, The aim of the partnership is to improve the alcohol addiction and family breakdown. £492,000 award from the Big Lottery Diversity Trust and Youth Centre quality of delivery and outcomes for young Cllr Jon Hunt, the Cabinet Member Fund, will begin work to provide more to deliver more joined-up services for young people by better integrating the working and responsible for children and young people, joined-up services to better support young people in a range of positive activities learning within the youth sector in South said: “We are delighted that our local people in South Gloucestershire. delivered through six youth hubs - in Gloucestershire. partnership of youth providers has been The Youth Partnership brings together the Hanham, , Wickwar, , Over the next three years the partnership will successful with this bid, which complements expertise of Creative Youth Network, Thornbury and . reach more young people, particularly those the support South Gloucestershire Council with complex needs, including mental has provided through the Positive Activity Mobile speed camera locations health, housing, unemployment, drugs and Subsidy funding.” Here are the locations in our area where you can expect to see police mobile speed cameras this week (starting 10th December). Pitching in to help Bath & North East Somerset: In Keynsham on Queens Road, Coronation Avenue, Albert Road and Rock Road; in Saltford on Manor Road and Norman Road; on the A431 Kelston Road and the A37 at club move up a league Pensford. Bristol: Following a generous grant from Saltford Parish In Brislington on the A4174 Callington Road, Wick Road, Hungerford Road, Allison Council and additional financial aid provided by Road and Talbot Road; in St George on the A420 Bell Hill Road/Two Mile Hill Road, Saltford Sports Club, Saltford FC have formally the Kingsway, Hillside Road, Nags Head Hill, Air Balloon Road, Blackswarth Road; on open their new crowd barrier. Gordon Avenue in Whitehall; in Stockwood on Ladman Road, Sturminster Road and The new barrier means the pitch next to Saltford Stockwood Lane; also on Whitchurch Lane and the A4174 Hengrove Way. Hall now meets the requirements of the County South Gloucestershire: Premier league which is Saltford FCs next On Court Farm Road and Ellacombe Road in Longwell Green; in Hanham on Whittucks promotion target. Other benefits of the new barrier Road and Abbots Road; on the A431 Bath Road at Swineford; in Oldland Common on include a substantial reduction in the time taken Barry Road, High Street and Mill Lane; on the B4465 Road at Pucklechurch; to prepare the pitch on match days. It also provides Saltford FC with the ideal platform to on the A4174 Avon Ring Road near Junction 1 of the M32 and at Bromley Heath; on display sponsorship boards to attract much-needed finance to the club. Henfield Road in Henfield; at Blackhorse Road, Mangotsfield; on Overndale Road in The photo shows members of Saltford FC, including chair Phil Saunder, alongside Saltford Downend; on Tower Lane in Warmley. parish councillors Chris Warren (chair) and Phil Harding (vice chair) and staff from Keynsham Fencing and Landscaping.

20 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Sadness as Tree Community invited to open-air carol singing Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council is inviting people to attend their first Community Christmas Sing-Along on Friday (14th) in conjunction with the Downend Men in Sheds group. Life Centre closes The event will be held from 6.30pm to 7.30pm in the grounds of St Augustine’s Church The Tree Life Centre based at Grimsbury to cover our costs and School in Boscombe Crescent and carols will be performed by various groups. Farm in Kingswood has closed. and despite our best Complimentary warm refreshments will be served. The community tree nursery was run efforts it became People are encouraged to wrap up warm, bring a torch and to wear a Christmas hat, and by charity The Conservation Volunteers apparent that the also to walk to the event if possible as there is only limited parking. (TCV). Tree Life Centre was Any spare change people are able to give will be donated to the homeless in Bristol. Volunteers were involved in propagating not doing that. native British trees, shrubs and wildflowers. “Whilst TCV is a The centre involved people from a wide national charity, we range of backgrounds including those with do review all our learning disabilities, mental health issues, the local operational long-term unemployed and anyone centres and make interested in learning more about trees and decisions on a case by case basis. wildflowers. It was with some sadness that we took the TCV operations director Alan Marchant told decision to close the centre. us: “The Tree Life Centre is now sadly “Grimsbury Farm has some exciting plans closed. Unfortunately as a charitable for the site and still offer activities and organisation we rely on grants and donations projects for people to get engaged with.” Good causes benefit from fete proceeds After another successful Whitchurch Village Fete on August Bank Holiday Monday, the committee was able to donate cheques totalling £5,250 to 19 local charities and organisations at their presentation evening at Whitchurch Royal British Legion recently. The recipients were: Freewheelers Blood Bikes, Enchante Baton Twirlers, Pegasus Hawking Birds of Prey, 107th Bristol (Whitchurch) Scout Group, Shaolin Wushu Martial Arts, RBL Poppy Appeal, St John Ambulance, St Peter’s Hospice, The Littlest Rescue, Barbarians Rugby Club, St Bernadette Primary School, Funding Animal Futures, Radio Bristol Alive Appeal, The Freewheelers Blood Jake Ogbourne, St Bernadette RC Church, Marmalade Bikes receiving their cheque Trust, Gympanzees, Holly Hedge and St Nicholas Pic: Roger Davie Webster Church. Sudoku Solutions Crossword Solution 1-Easy 2-Hard

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 21 Service Directory

Advertising Blinds Carpet Fitters Events Garden Services Home Maintenance

Aerials Chimney Sweeps Fencing Guttering Health & Fitness

Builders

Electrical Garden Services Hair & Beauty IT & Computers

REPAIRS, NEW AND USED COMPUTERS OR Appliances ACCESSORIES. Smart Computers. Keynsham, Kingswood, Westbury-on-Trym. T: 0117 986 1000.

Locksmiths

Carpet Cleaning

Home Maintenance

Architectural Services

Logs

THE WEEK IN adverts DEADLINE FOR PLACING DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS call DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM 0117 986 0381 IS FRIDAY 4.30PM

22 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 Service Directory

Motor Services Pet Services Plumbers Skip Hire To Let Windows & Doors

Oven Cleaning Plastering

THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381

Therapies An advert TVs like this costs Plumbers Painting P DAY PLUMBING & Decorating SERVICES. £20.00 For all your plumbing and tiling + VAT D.JAMES DECORATING needs, call Peter 07793746958 36 years' experience. per insert Qualified tradesman. Discounts are available for Efficient /reliable. multiple bookings starting at References available 2 weeks 07861 898902 / 01275 831696 or visit our website djamesdecorating.com THE WEEK IN adverts Tile Services call 0117 986 0381

Venue Hire DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM Sewing Lessons Waste Disposal

An advert like this costs £20.00 + VAT THE WEEK IN per insert adverts DEADLINE FOR PLACING DEADLINE FOR PLACING Discounts are available for DIRECTORY ADVERTS DIRECTORY ADVERTS call multiple bookings starting at IS FRIDAY 4.30PM IS FRIDAY 4.30PM 2 weeks 0117 986 0381

The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018 23 24 The Week in • Wednesday 12th December 2018