The Week in East & North East Somerset FREE Issue no 318 1st May 2014 Read by over 30,000 people every week In this week’s issue ...... page 3 Shake-up in local policing . . . Keynsham and Brislington stations to close page 4 housing development flooded. . . Locals say 'we told you so' pages 16-19 Out and About in May. . . What's on over the Bank Holiday in 2 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Keynsham and Brislington police stations to close in cost-cutting shake-up Keynsham and Brislington police stations have been earmarked for closure as part of a shake-up in the Avon & Somerset force. Police chiefs are looking to close a third of their premises by 2019 to support the further cuts they expect they will need to make, but stress that they are planning to keep more police officers and staff on, or close to, the frontline. Avon & Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “Our plans are about reducing the amount of oversized and under-utilised buildings we own and providing the best possible access for our communities. “Soon you are much more likely to see your local police team located with other ‘blue light’ services such as fire and ambulance or with your local council. This means that the police Keynsham Police Station will close next year will be where you need them most, in the heart of your The police say the building of the three new police and custody community. centres in Keynsham, Bridgwater and with PPI “This is an exciting time for local policing and reinforces our (private finance initiative) funding has given them “a unique commitment to serving our communities while being more opportunity” to look at their estate. efficient and cost effective with our buildings.” The new police centre in Ashmead Road in Keynsham will “We are actively looking at opportunities to develop shared house 48 custody cells, specialist crime investigation teams, a facilities with other local service providers where possible, multi-agency safeguarding team and victim and witness focus including local councils, fire and ambulance, building on the team. The original opening date was March but the police are success of co-locations in Weston-super-Mare and now saying it is likely to open in the summer. Kingswood.” Continued on page 19

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 3 Happy 100th Ethel Ethel Sutherland enjoyed an early surprise birthday last week when she attended her Wednesday evening bingo session at Locals warned new development was a flood risk The gardens of a controversial new estate built on a playing Hanham Community Centre. field in Oldland Common have been hit by flooding – Ethel turned 100 on Saturday 26th April and has been a regular despite assurances that the development would not be at bingo player at the centre for a number of years. risk. Other players and staff all wanted to mark the occasion and so During the winter’s heavy rain a lake formed on the field and Ethel was presented with a bottle of champagne by Thelma water seeped through fences into the gardens of properties in Worlock, along with everyone's best wishes. Cotswold Homes’ Albert Close development, pooling in places. Work to sort out the drainage problems has been under way in recent weeks. Levelling has been taking place in the field and a bund has been put in place to act as a flood defence. The 13-home estate off Victoria Road was built by award- winning developers after the Sir Bernard Lovell School sold off part of its playing field for housing to help pay for its new community sports centre. The Week in The effort to stop the sell-off led to an application by some local residents to register the entire field as a village green but their bid failed. Christine Miles and her husband Don moved in to Albert Close, last autumn. Mrs Miles said searches by the couple’s solicitor had not revealed any problems with flooding on the field but in submissions to Council planners when the scheme was lodged, local councillors and residents going on the record about the playing field being poorly drained and prone to waterlogging. At the time comments lodged included this from Parish

Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, , Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, , , Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, , Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, , Whitchurch, Wick, . 15,000 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] Editorial Becky Feather 07973 839936 Christine Rogers 07818 031328 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.

in 4 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 w developmentCouncil: “Councillors noted in particular that was the area is subject a flood risk to drainage problems. It is well known locally that the water table is very high here, resulting in the land becoming boggy and wet in times of heavy rainfall. “Even with the use of permeable surfacing, the erection of 13 dwellings on this site could only exacerbate the existing problems with the very real detriment to the residential amenity of those living there. “Neighbours along Bath Road have been forced to install flood Flooding in the fields. Picture taken by resident Mel Hill prevention measures at their own expense in order to avoid the incursion of water to their properties which has happened and, opposite side of the road) after flooding on three occasions. as you will appreciate, been a terrible experience. A drain was “Councillors are aware that the drainage system in the area installed to the rear of the properties in Bath Road (on the around the site is woefully inadequate. It would be unable to cope with further pressure on its facilities from the new dwellings proposed. They feel that there has been insufficient recognition of this situation and that the grant of permission for new houses here will lead to further problems for both existing and new residents in future.” However, the council did not consider flooding was an issue: “The application demonstrates that it will not result in any adverse flooding or drainage effects. Mrs Miles was keen to praise Cotswold Homes for the way it had reacted to the problem and also problems that some Albert Close residents have experienced with rain leaking into their homes which has involved remedial work.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 5 Hanham Focus on eco-homes at conference in Kingswood Hanham High set to A conference in Kingswood next week will bring together planners, housebuilders and professionals from across the join Cabot Learning housing sector to discuss zero carbon housing. The Nearer to Zero conference on Tuesday 6th May will be an Federation opportunity to get the most up-to-date perspective on progress The Cabot Learning Federation (CLF), one of the largest towards zero carbon homes. academy chains in the South West, with 11 academies, five The Government is committed to implementing zero carbon primaries and six secondary, is in talks with Hanham High homes from 2016. The standard will require house builders to School about it joining from September. decrease all carbon emissions from energy, such as ventilation, Hanham High has been working in partnership with the in new homes. federation since April 2013 with a focus on wider school improvement and the development of teaching and learning. Both staff and parents have attended meetings to find out more and the response has been positive, with the view being that maintaining the partnership between Hanham High School and the CLF is a positive step forward. Sir David Carter, CEO of the Cabot Learning Federation, which runs the John Cabot and King’s Oak academies in Kingswood, said: “Hanham High School is The eco-village at Hanham already a valued partner of the federation. We have worked There will be presentations from leading industry experts the closely together for a year and conference which will take place at Kingswood Civic Centre. there has been some excellent The new eco-village at Hanham Hall is a model of future joint practice that has helped housing design. The scheme, designed by HTA architects and students, particularly those in developed by Barratt, is one of a number of flagship schemes Year 11 facing their GCSE exams. under the Carbon Challenge initiative promoted by the Homes “We see this development as the and Communities Agency. best way to secure the partnership for the long term and are confident that come September, Hanham will become a key member of our family of academies.” Brislington Phil Bevan, headteacher of Hanham High, said: “The CLF have Micro-brewery plans approved provided outstanding support to Hanham High School in my first Permission has been granted by Bristol City Council for a micro- year of headship and they have enabled and accelerated our brewery in Brislington. school improvement journey. Having the opportunity to become Stephen Hall, of fledgling business The Incredible Brewing an academy within the CLF is an amazing chance for us to Company, has been given permission to change the use of a contribute back to federation. The CLF’s involvement will ensure light industrial unit in the warehouse at 214-224 Broomhill Road that Hanham High provides an outstanding education for to a brewhouse. students at the school.” Brewing will take place three or four times a week, producing between 80 and 100 litres of beer each time.

in 6 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Keynsham Whitchurch Concerns over changes Fete seeks sponsors The 37th annual Whitchurch toThe company park responsible for thetoilets public toilets Village Fete will be held over in Memorial Park will receive a long overdue the August Bank Holiday upgrade but will only provide one unisex and weekend of 23rd-25th August. one disabled/baby change facility if plans The committee is currently before B&NES Council are approved. The seeking sponsors who could new facilities will also be coin entry only. assist financially or by As part of its cost-cutting exercises, B&NES donating a raffle prize. Council has handed over the running of a Events at the fete will include number of public toilets in the district a barn dance, car boot sale, (including The Shallows at Saltford) to private charge by coin entry. dog show, flower, produce and crafts show as well as contractor Healthmatic. The firm is now Ric Davison, chairman of the annual music many stalls and arena seeking to make external changes and festival organising committee, also has displays. improvements to the interior to make the concerns. He said: "The festival has to provide Bookings are being taken for toilets fit for purpose. facilities in accordance with expected stall positions around the However, the reduction in the number of toilet numbers for the day - and of course will main arena, with discounts for cubicles and implementation of a charge has always do so. But the normal facilities are also those who book early. Contact concerned local residents, some of whom well used during the festival. Their reduction Mike Squire (01275 836742) have already objected to the proposal. will cause us some additional cost." or Ashton Broad (01275 Currently there are two toilet cubicles in the You can view the plans and make comments 832148) or email ladies with one and a urinal in the gents. There on the B&NES Council website or via the whitchurchvillagefete@hotma are also the obvious concerns over hygiene by Council Connect office. The application il.co.uk making one of the toilets unisex with no men's reference is 14/01498/FUL. The deadline for The fete normally attracts urinal, as well as the consequences of a comments is 15th May. over 3,000 visitors.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 7 Cadbury Heath Energy-efficient homes cut

Aresidents’ scheme to improve the energy partnership bills has worked by with up to 40% efficiency of homes on the estate has Avon Fire & Rescue Service been shortlisted for a prestigious to raise awareness of fire award after residents’ bills were safety, sponsored an almost halved. apprentice at Juice The Merlin Housing Society project saw Community Project in 66 homes fitted with external wall Cadbury Heath and donated insulation as well as the replacement of money to local community windows, doors and roofs as part of a groups. £2.6m investment. Now the scheme has now The post-Second World War homes been shortlisted for the were earmarked for improvement in Chartered Institute of 2012, with regeneration specialist Building’s South West Built Keepmoat appointed to carry out the Environment Award for work, part-funded by a £147,000 ECO Value. (Energy Companies Obligation) grant. Merlin project manager Richard Hopkins into the 21st century, making them The work has seen residents save up to said the homes were the first of 1,000 energy efficient and extending their life 40% on their gas and electricity bills and which will be improved over the next few by up to 30 years. reduced carbon emissions. years in a £23m project. “Residents have been full of praise for Merlin and Keepmoat have also been “The work has made a huge difference the work we’ve carried out to their working with local schools, colleges and to the people living in them who now homes and we’re delighted that the community centres to leave a lasting have warmer homes that are cheaper to project has now been shortlisted for this legacy throughout the area. The heat. This work is bringing these homes prestigious award.”

More catalytic converter thefts in Keynsham Police are asking people to be aware after the theft of more catalytic converters from vehicles in the Keynsham area. There were three reported thefts on the night of Wednesday 23rd April in Lays Drive, Coronation Avenue and Firs Avenue. The vehicles were targeted by thieves who removed the catalytic converters using a professional chain-cutting tool. "We need people to report any suspicious activity they may see around vans and trucks, particularly during the night," said an Avon & Somerset police spokesman. They say the thefts are likely to be linked to five reported incidents in the town over a two-day period in March. “Catalytic converters contain precious metals – their exact composition will determine their re-sale value. Anyone with any information or who sees anything suspicious is asked to call 101,” said the spokesman. They can cost upwards of £250 to replace but thieves also cause hundreds of pounds worth of damage in removing them.

in 8 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Keynsham

RiversideAs the deadline passes for expressions landlord of interest in the gone bust? new retail units, The Week In has learnt of a major development in B&NES Council's future regeneration plans for Keynsham town centre. Topland, the property company which owns the lease on the Riverside office on Temple Street, appears to have been placed into administration. The company is also landlord to the retail businesses fronting Temple Street and this week they each received notification that property agents Knight Frank had been appointed by administrators KPMG to take over the management of the building from former Topland subsidiary Berkley Estates. B&NES Council Leader Paul Crossley has previously gone on record as saying he wanted a plan in place for the future of the Riverside by the time the Civic Centre development opened. Sainsbury's are being touted as one of the tenants Last year the council also made provision to invoke a compulsory purchase order if negotiations with Topland could hoping to move to the Keynsham development who had nothing not be concluded successfully. but praise for the assistance they had received from agents Previously the council has only been prepared to confirm that DTZ. negotiations were ongoing over the future of the site. Where While B&NES has remained tight-lipped about the identity of this leaves the timetable for the second stage of development the anchor site tenants, we understand that prospective clients is unclear, as is the future for the retailers on Temple Street. In for the smaller retail units are being told by the agents that they Issue 317 (24th April), we reported they were being pressured will have Sainsbury's and Bottelino's restaurant as neighbours. to submit bids for the new units in the civic centre without The news about Topland broke just as we were going to press knowing the position regarding their existing lease obligations and we were waiting for a statement from KPMG. You can keep to Topland. up to date with developments at our website In that issue we also reported that some businesses were www.theweekin.co.uk experiencing difficulties in dealing with the agents charged with marketing the retail space. One trader has subsequently told us .HHSXSWRGDWHZLWK that a request to visit the units was turned down because they 7KH:HHN LQ had already been shown around it twice. The Week In has also 7ZRWKLUGVRISHRSOHLQ.H\QVKDPVD\WKH\XVH 7KH:HHN LQWR¿QGRXWZKDW¶VKDSSHQLQJLQWKHWRZQ spoken to another business based elsewhere in Bristol and

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in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 9 therefore the ‘majority’, ie over 90% of outset there were six check points which, Saltford residents , did not attend the at the request of local residents, have exhibition, either because they do not increased to nine. The weather at the end Letters support the campaign or were not of last year and the beginning of this year Station survey results interested in the opening of a station. prevented the Watch going out. Dear Stephen, Mike Reed To reduce speeding we need volunteers to It was very satisfying to see the results of be willing to give some of their time to swell B&NES' own public consultation survey Help to reduce speeding our numbers, especially during weekdays. come out strongly in favour of reopening Dear Editor, The Speed Watch is a deterrent and this our station. Oldland Community Speed Watch has has been proved many times. When many The stand-out stats are nearly 70% in completed one year since it came into drivers see us, they check their speed and favour, over 60% will walk to the station operation in March 2013. The Community slow down. We are aware, that after and 10% will cycle. These figures are Speed Watch operates under the direction passing us, they start signalling oncoming broadly similar to what we as a campaign of the Avon and Somerset Constabulary. All vehicles of our presence. have collated over the last three years. members are trained by the police. The The parishes of Hanham, Hanham Abbots Quite simply, Saltford Station makes Watch can only monitor at a check point and Bitton are also seeking volunteers to sense. To those of you who want to see which has been vetted and approved by set up their Community Speed Watches. this facility return as soon as possible, I can the police. A Watch consists of two to four Collectively we can make it difficult for assure you we are working hard behind the trained members and there are currently inconsiderate drivers. If you are prepared scenes to press all stakeholders into nine approved check points within Oldland to help to reduce speeding, please contact bringing this project forward. parish. your parish clerk or if you see us out, give The Bristol Metro is moving ahead and The Watch must be visible at all times, in us your contact details. Saltford is going to be a part of it! daylight and good weather conditions, to all Graham Downing Chris Warren drivers and members of the public. The Co-ordinator Saltford Station Campaign criteria for logging a speeding vehicle is the Oldland Community Speed Watch statutory speed limit plus 10% plus two Clear lack of support for miles, i.e. for a 30mph zone it is 30 plus 10 MP's opinion is relevant station plus two = 35mph. All vehicles logged are Dear Stephen, Dear Sir, reported to the police who decide on what Mr Baldwin's letter (Issue 317) indicates he I must complain at the use of false action to take. has overlooked the fact that all constituents information in the headline SALTFORD During the year the Watch has held eight of any MP are also subject to the decisions ‘Majority in favour of station reopening’, sessions where we monitored 2,288 of some local council. issue no 317, 24th April 2014. The majority vehicles of which 106 were logged at If any of Chris Skidmore's constituents feel of Saltford residents are not supporting the breaking the speed limit, this equates to that a council's planning decision is unfair, station campaign, and there is no longer a 4.63% of drivers. The highest speed he is the next port of call to intercede on station in Saltford to reopen! monitored was 49mph in a 30mph zone. their behalf, it's his job. The B&NES ‘exhibition’ to which the article The check point in Craven Way was visited His opinion does indeed have relevance refers was called in order to ‘share some of five times and monitored 676 vehicles, since, if necessary, the final say is with the the conclusions of a high level options logged 15 speeding, one logged at 47mph. relevant Government Minister, of which he assessment’. From the numbers quoted Oldland Community Speed Watch started is a part. (68.9% of 370 responses) being in favour, with four members, one retired and the M O'Regan indicates 255, which is 6% of the number of other three in full-time employment thereby Saltford residents! having limited free time, mainly at Majority means ‘more than half’, and weekends. The strength is now six. At the

in 10 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 There will also be a demonstration of a been reinstated after being ploughed up for public defibrillator as one has been crops. installed on Memorial Common. Our understanding is that a public footpath Letters Importantly the open forum will be an should be 1.5 metres wide with no Smoke and mirrors opportunity for questions and discussion, overhanging vegetation to impede a walker Dear Editor, with residents potentially influencing the or horse rider and that cross-field footpaths I was very interested to read the letter from council's plans and activities for the coming should be reinstated to a width of one Labour's Transport Lead Cllr Roger year. And of course the refreshments will metre. Hopefully, the farmers of the area Hutchinson and his bold attempt to be an opportunity to meet councillors. will make sure that this is implemented as introduce smoke and mirrors into the Why not come along on Tuesday 13th May soon as possible. debate about the most effective at 7.30pm at Hanham Hall. Irene & Maurice engineering solution for the notorious Robin Champion Keynsham Wraxall Road ring road roundabout. Hanham Deliberately it seems, Labour has avoided Wraxall Road roundabout - answering the most important and obvious Pathway concerns an alternative view question - why did they vote for the extra Dear Sir, Dear Editor, £600,000 needed to complete the £1.4m We are very disappointed and sad that the I use the Wraxall Road roundabout to funding package in one council meeting, permissive path that ran between Courtney access the ring road from Cadbury Heath only to then vote against it a mere seven Road in Keynsham and Burnett has now side frequently. There is hardly ever a days later? been closed by the farmer. We walked on significant tailback of traffic, in fact I see no Why this complete U-turn in the space of a this path on a regular basis when it was problems whatsoever with access. The week? The community has a right to know. dry. only time it can take a while at the Cllr Colin Hunt This is due to Government cuts of roundabout is when some doddery driver Emersons Green Conservative subsidies paid to farmers that put aside wants a half-mile gap before pulling out at councillor edges of fields for ramblers, horse riders 2 mph, frankly the roads in general would and wildlife. Therefore, the farmer has be safer without dodderers on them at all! Invitation to parish meeting been forced to close this permissive path. The whole point of a ring road is to Dear Editor, This was the only path that ran between efficiently carry the bulk of traffic, allowing it For 120 years it has been a requirement that side of Keynsham and Burnett without to flow. We already have a totally that every year, at about this time, every having to walk along dangerous and unnecessary 50mph limit imposed on that parish must have an Annual Parish narrow 60mph country roads. This is from section (during peak use the volume of Meeting. Although these are arranged by a Government that said that they would be traffic dictates that speeds are only about parish councils - they are not parish council the "greenest government ever"! 50mph anyway), outside of peak times it's meetings. These relatively informal Having then walked down a treacherous perfectly safe to drive at 70mph on a dual meetings (alternatively called an byway to get down to Chewton Keynsham, carriageway. Assembly) are open to all residents of the we were even more perturbed to see that Putting traffic lights on the roundabout parish to attend. the public footpath that runs along the left would undoubtedly cause unnecessary Hanham Abbots Parish Council is making a of the River Chew from the byway to congestion and delays for ring road traffic, special effort this year to encourage more Burnett has been ploughed up and planted which in turn will cause drivers to seek to of its residents to attend. The meeting is to with crops. It looks as though it will be use alternative routes through residential be held in the new Community Meeting impossible to walk along this footpath areas. So please NO traffic lights at this Room at Hanham Hall where the parish without walking on the farmers' crop. This junction. council chairman will explain how the has been reported to B&NES Council. Graham Willis council has spent its time and residents' Several fields with cross-field footpaths Longwell Green money over the past year. around the Burnett area have also not

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 11 New footpath for Kelston Road Fishponds A temporary footpath has now been built in Drilling of boreholes to investigate the problem School rated the field above the A431 near Kelston Park has now finished and off-site analysis of the good by Ofsted which is closed because of a major cores is under way before a decision is taken Briarwood School has been landslip. on the best way to make the road safe, how rated as good across the It was opening this week, allowing cyclists and long that is likely to take and how much it will board by the education pedestrians to bypass the works. The footpath cost. Weekly monitoring of ground movement watchdog Ofsted. will be accessed by steps that a scaffolding will continue. A team of inspectors visited company were due to put up shortly after we Meanwhile B&NES Council is warning drivers the Fishponds school, which went to print. to beware that farming operations have caters for children aged from three to 19 with special With the prospect of the road being closed for started in the area around Kelston and that needs, last month. many more months, options for a temporary large agricultural vehicles will be present on The split-site school, which road to be built alongside the A431 across nearby roads and drivers should follow the has 87 pupils, was rated good Kelston Park are still being investigated by the signed diversion. for achievement of pupils, council and its specialist consultants. quality of teaching, behaviour and safety of pupils and leadership and management. Ofsted said there were “excellent relationships” between students and staff, and leaders, managers and members of the governing body had an accurate view of the school, knew what needed to be done to make it outstanding and were working well towards this aim.

ACROSS Crossword 1 Determine to be (7) 5 Doctor of Philosophy (5) 8 Winged insect (9) 9 Electrically charged particle (3) 10 Robber (5) 12 Costly mistake in football (3,4) 13 Type of fruit (8,5) 15 Material fired at high temperature (7) 17 Telling untruths (5) 19 A piece of winter sports equipment (3) 20 Abnormal (9) 22 Mr Rooney's christian name (5) 23 Praised (7)

DOWN 1 Head of an abbey (5) 2 Stick out (3) 3 Form of cooking in oil (4-3) 4 Crystaline deposit on the surface of masonry (13) 5 Leading light (5) 6 The common people (3,6) 7 Oil extracted from wool (7) 11 The centre of a large conurbation (5,4) 13 Metal tool (7) 14 Civilians trained as soldiers (7) 16 Vital part of a computer (5) 18 Extremely cold (5) 21 Long tailed rodent (3)

in 12 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Fishponds St George Academy one of the best in Park is test ground for England for GCSE progress Bristol Metropolitan Academy in Snowdon Road, Fishponds, has 'Park and Slide' received national recognition for the value it adds to students’ The giant water slide that will be set up in Park Street in Bristol achievements at GCSE. on Sunday 4th May has been tested in St George Park. A recent analysis of official Department for Education data on all state Almost 100,000 people have signed up to slide down the 90- funded schools in England by SSAT, the national schools’ membership organisation for improvement and collaboration, identified Bristol metre water slide as part of the Mayor of Bristol’s city’s Make Metropolitan Academy’s success. Sundays Special initiative. The school, formerly know as Whitefield Fishponds Community| School, Demand far outweighs the number of people who will be able to has qualified for an SSAT Educational Outcomes Award by being in the take part, so a random draw of those who registered on the top 20% of schools nationally for progress made by pupils between their www.bristolslide.com website will decide who gets tickets. Key Stage 2 results at primary school and their GCSE results at 16. The slide has been made by Bedminster-based Cameron Sally Apps, principal of Bristol Metropolitan Academy, which is part of the Cabot Learning Federation, said: “I am extremely proud of the Bristol Balloons, who are working with artist Luke Jerram, who came up Met team; our parents, our staff and most of all our fantastic students with the idea of the slide. The testing took place in the park last who have once again demonstrated that ambition matched with hard Tuesday at 5.30am. work can lead to extraordinary success. We are rightly respected in our See also page 16. community for working in the interests of every student regardless of starting point. “This award is further recognition of what can be achieved by a dedicated team who believe in high standards, high expectations and high aspirations for all. It is a privilege to accept this award on behalf of the Bristol Met community”. Sue Williamson, chief executive of SSAT said: ‘Bristol Metropolitan Academy should be congratulated for their exceptional achievement. They have proved themselves to be leading the field in improving GCSE outcomes for their students.” The school will receive the award at a ceremony in Birmingham on 4th June.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 13 Campaigners finally get response to

AfterFreedom a wait of more than four months,of trafficInformation campaigners request have received a response from Bristol City Council to their Freedom of Information request about Crews Hole. The FOI Act says authorities must respond to requests by the 20th working day following the date of receipt of the request. The campaigners, concerned about one-way plans for Crews Hole, and Beaufort roads, submitted their request about funding sources and conditions on 18th November last year. It was eventually answered on 2nd April after reminders Traffic calming measures will go ahead on Crews Hole Road from the campaigners, local councillors and Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy. “The Conham Road plans are described on page 32: the Carmen Locke, one of the campaigners, said they had asked ‘proposal to carry promenade route past this longstanding gap for details of the developer and other funding earmarked for the in the towpath route. . . alternatively there have been proposals controversial scheme, including "£200,000 Enterprise Zone to introduce a one-way system including Beaufort Road and money" for Conham Road. Crews Hole Road which would allow space for the promenade She said: “From the council's Steve Knight, we learn that much along Conham Road and also space for a cycleway on Beaufort of the money for Beaufort Road and Crews Hole Road is for Road’. highway and route improvement, including road safety, these “The omission (in the FOI response) of Conham Road as part general enough to allow discretion in the way the funds are of the Promenades Project is not surprising but noticeable, spent. given that Conham Road forms part of a significant project “Re the £200,000: If the EZ was providing such a sum of money which could be said to relate to the ‘general area’. for Conham Road, what was the EZ expecting for it? “As to whether ‘funding (from the LEP) is conditional on the “According to Steve Knight, the money was coming from the one-way’, that maybe something outside the scope of the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership Revolving council to answer. “ Infrastructure Fund. The West of England LEP is the body in As The Week In reported in March, the one-way scheme for charge of the Enterprise Zone. The money, says Steve, was for Crews Hole will not be progressed as the Enterprise Zone an ‘improved pedestrian and cycle facility along Conham Road’. board has decided to allocate the £200,000 to other works. And, (this) ‘funding is not conditional upon the introduction of a The St George Neighbourhood Partnership website reveals one-way system. The funds specifically relate to this section of that "any revised scheme will not be funded by money under road, not the general area’. the control of the Neighbourhood Partnership and as such the “However, given the nature of roads, they tend to relate to the Partnership will not be making the final decision". general area. The significance of Conham Road is that it links The city council is going ahead with plans for speed tables and two sections of towpath between the Conham Road car park speed cushions in the vicinity of the junction of Crews Hole area and Crews Hole Road. Road with Butlers Close, where the road passes through a “Not mentioned in the response but referred to in the FOI is double bend. Meanwhile proposals for parts of Beaufort Road Bristol Cycling City Ambition - Conham Road's part is described in St George to be made one-way, which have also proved in the Bristol Promenades Project's brochure dated April 2013. contentious, are due to start this month.

Situations Vacant

in 14 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Saltford New Probus Club president Former music lecturer BuildingStanding in the playground of Saltford Primary theparent volunteersArk guided by Nathan, who also John Watkeys, aged 68, School until recently was a much-loved, but owns Saltford Building Services, gave up their has been installed as the very dilapidated piece of play equipment in the Saturday mornings to build a new Ark which is new president of shape of an Ark. now complete. Keynsham & Saltford In desperate need of replacement, parent Ciara Hurley, outdoor learning leader at Probus Club. Nathan Sheppard, who is an active PTA Saltford School, said: "We are delighted with As a trumpeter and singer member and a governor, led a volunteer the new and updated Ark in the playground. A he has performed at most project to do exactly that. After drawing up special thanks to all the volunteers who gave major concert venues in initial designs, the school council was up their time and expertise. It is clear to see Wales and southern consulted and some of their ideas the fantastic craftsmanship that went into this England. incorporated. project. Born in Llanelli, he trained Funding for the materials was secured via "The children are very excited to play in the at what is now the Royal money raised by the PTA and over the winter Ark, and I know this will be a playtime favourite Welsh College of Music months, when the weather allowed, a team of once again." and Drama in Cardiff. He was a lecturer in East Anglia, Bristol and Bath before joining Avon Music Service. Taking over the Probus presidency from Ron Lake, he is leading the club for retired professional and businessmen into its fifth decade.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 15 OUT & ABOUT Your guide to eating, drinking and entertainment in May Make Sunday Special this summer! Following the success of last year's programme, once again, city centre streets will be closing to motor traffic and opening up to people. Starting on Sunday 4th May the Make Sunday Special programme will run throughout the summer on the first Sunday of each month, until September 7th. The first event on Sunday 4th May (11am – 5pm) promises to be spectacular, with Luke Jerram’s water slide ride planned for Park Street (tickets only and subject to safety checks www.bristolslide .com), and a host of entertainers in College Green and the old city at Corn Street. You can also enjoy slow food at the Bristol Food Connections event on College Green www.bristolfoodconnections.com Sunday city visitors will be able to explore the city streets for art, and soak up the atmosphere in Bristol City Centre this music, street games and entertainment in the Old City and summer? wander through the market stalls on Corn Street. Full details of the programme are available at Why not come down and take in a performance, or just relax www.bristol.gov.uk/makesundayspecial Keynsham Newton St Loe Cancer Care fundraiser A 50/50 Crafty Coffee Morning will take place on Saturday 24th Country Fair May from 10am to noonin the Parish Hall, fundraising for St On Bank Holiday Monday (5th May) there is a great opportunity John’s Church and the RUH Bath Cancer Centre. to look around the unique Duchy of Cornwall village of Newton Home-made cakes will be on sale along with a variety of hand- St.Loe (just up the hill from the A4 Globe roundabout). The made craft items including jewellery, knitted toys, cards and village is holding its annual country fair with a craft stalls, jazz heart-shaped pillows. band, morris dancers, dog show, art exhibition and cream teas. For more information, contact the Parish Office on 0117 986 There is ample car parking 3354. (£2) and the fun starts at 11am. Proceeds from the day go to the church and village hall.

in 16 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 TheNew Hollybush publease on the Bath Road of at Bridgeyate life has for the Hollybush reopened recently after a major refurbishment. Running the Hollybush, which now has a stylish, modern feel, is James Prangell, who used to run the Swan at . The Hollybush offers a fine setting to sample a wide range of wines, beers, including locally brewed Bath Ales, local ciders and specialist gins. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients go into the home-made lunches, evening meals, daily specials and Sunday roasts. Examples of starters on offer include Goat’s Cheese Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing, and King Scallops, Trio of Beets & Cornish Crab. Meanwhile main dishes on the menu include Duck Breast with Horseradish Mash, Roasted Vegetables & Caramelised Orange James Prangell, second from left, with some of the staff at the Sauce, and Lamb Cutlets with Celeriac Mash, Braised Red Hollybush Cabbage & Minted Jus. There are also fish and meat platters to share. The lunchtime The pub has a conservatory style dining area from where you menu includes sandwiches or wraps or the Hollybush Burger & can see the chefs at work in the kitchen. Chips, and there is a dedicated children’s menu for which all The Hollybush is open every day from noon. For more dishes are priced under £5. information call 0117 239 5879.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 17 OUT & ABOUT Your guide to eating, drinking and entertainment in May Scarecrows bring movie magic to Pucklechurch and Hanham Both Hanham and Pucklechurch are inviting people to come scarecrow hunting. Pucklechurch’s annual scarecrow competition and trail in aid of the village church of St Thomas a Becket takes place this bank holiday weekend – on Sunday 4th and Monday 5th May. This year’s theme is movie characters – fact and fiction – and people are invited to go round the village guessing the identity of the scarecrows. There will be a prize for the best scarecrow as voted by those taking part in the trail. On Sunday forms and maps will be available to buy from the church from noon but people are invited to attend Café Church first at 10am if they wish. Coffee, tea and sandwiches will be on sale from midday and there will be stalls and crafts available in church. Cream teas will be available in the church room from 2pm to 4pm with the chance to listen to some music. Completed trail forms can be returned to the church by 4pm or on the Monday for anyone who needs longer to find all the scarecrows. On Monday people can collect trail forms and maps from the church from 10.30am. It will again be open for coffees, teas and cakes, with sandwiches served after 11.30am. There will be stalls and crafts in church and cream teas and music in the church room from 2pm to 4pm. Completed forms must be returned to the church by 4pm when the answers will be revealed. There will also be a short blessing. Meanwhile Hanham’s third annual scarecrow trail in the High Street is on 10th and 11th May and this year’s theme is film. The trail costs £2 to enter and starts and ends at the community centre. The scarecrows will be on display all weekend but entry forms will be available from the centre between 10am and 2pm. There will be a prize for most correctly guessed scarecrows and the best scarecrow gets a trophy to keep for a year.

in 18 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Keynsham and d entertainment in May Brislington police stations to close in Full steam ahead cost-cutting shake-up Continued from page 3

The closures, announced on Monday, include Keynsham police Thefor line-up hasShipFest been confirmed for station on Bath Hill, which is set to shut in spring 2015 and “co- the Spring Bank Holiday's ShipFest locate” with Bath & North East Somerset Council in the town’s in Keynsham. new Civic Centre. Following last year's inaugural success, Saturday 24th May will see the garden of the Ship Inn in Temple Street once again turned into the venue for an all-day music festival. First up are Retrospecs - not the full band that locals will know, but a more stripped-down, acoustic version with the three founder members. Next are duo Pete and Graham who those familiar with the Ship's Monday night music will know. Next up

Brislington police station in Broomhill Road will close in 2015- 2016 with staff relocating to Broadbury Road police station in Knowle, which will be refurbished. The main station at Staple Hill was already earmarked to close once custody moves to the new Patchway Police Centre. A new appointments-only police office for Staple Hill and Downend will open within the retained block at the current site. are Kirris Riviere - blues at its very best with some top players. Fishponds police station will remain open, as will the Kingswood After that local covers band Resplendence will get the crowd inquiry office and base for the local policing team at Kingswood going. Local act Fatman Swings will do what they do best and Civic Centre. entertain the crowd with jump-jive and swing, and the evening Bath police station will also close in 2017-2018 and a new will finish with the amazing Flash Harry. inquiry office and local policing base will be co-located with Entrance is free. The pub opens at noon and the first act is on B&NES Council on Manvers Street. stage at 3pm. Jack Dromey MP, Shadow Policing Minister, was briefed on the proposals by Ms Mountstevens and Chief Constable Nick Gargan on Monday morning. He then went on to Kingswood with Jo McCarron, Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for the seat, to meet local residents, councillors, PCSOs and neighbourhood inspector Rob Evely to hear their experiences of the impact that cuts and changes are having. He told The Week In: “Avon & Somerset police are doing their best to preserve local access to the police. It’s been incredibly difficult for them to do because of the sheer scale of the cuts – 20 per cent of their total budget has been cut since 2010.” He said that had resulted in some 400 frontline officers having been lost from the force. “The thin blue line protecting our communities is being stretched ever thinner,” he said.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 19 St George Keeping up the pressure Residents get the for Cossham’s promised Minor Injuries Unit chance to target Campaigners are keeping up the pressure up on health chiefs not to back down on the promise of a minor injuries speeding drivers unit (MIU) for Cossham Hospital in Kingswood. Speeding traffic is a major concern for many people living A public consultation event about Cossham was taking place on in St George and a topic frequently raised at Tuesday at Cleve Rugby Club in Mangotsfield, just as The Week Neighbourhood Forum meetings. In was going to print. And now local people are being invited to take effective action The Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), the body which plans against offenders, with the support of Avon & Somerset Police and buys health services for people across South and Bristol City Council. Gloucestershire, is considering what other urgent care services could be provided from Cossham Hospital, and invited local people, patients, voluntary and community groups, health providers, GPs and councillors along to have their say. Among them was leading Cossham campaigner Reg Bennett who also addressed South Gloucestershire’s Public Health & Health Scrutiny Committee meeting in Kingswood last Wednesday. He told the committee that with Hospital being downgraded and most healthcare services including A&E being transferred to the new super-hospital at Southmead from May, it was important that local people had the facilities they needed, namely the minor injuries unit that had been “democratically agreed” for Cossham in 2009. Community Speed Watch involves local people being trained to Cossham Hospital reopened in January 2013 after a £19m carry out speed checks from locations they have identified and refurbishment but a question mark is hanging over the provision had agreed and risk assessed by the police. Details of speeding of an MIU. Health chiefs say that experience nationally and vehicles are forwarded to the police and a warning letter is sent locally has shown that minor injuries services do not necessarily to motorists who have flouted the limit. result in a proportionate reduction in attendances at hospital Equipment is loaned to volunteers by Bristol City Council. A&E departments. Ideally three people are needed on a Speed Watch session - With Frenchay effectively closing from May, Cossham will one to use a clicker to count all vehicles and use the speed gun, become the base for the local out-of hours service, which will another to act as observer and the third to note the offending operate from 6.30pm to 8am, Monday to Friday and 24 hours a vehicles' registration numbers and other details. day over weekends and public holidays. Access to the service Two people who will be targeting the Crews Hole area have will be through NHS 111. already received Speed Watch training. If you are interested in Cossham will also be offering a rapid access outpatient clinic joining them or covering other parts of St George contact PC aimed at older people. This new service will mean GPs will be Brett Worthington on the police number 101. able to refer patients straight to a specialist geriatric consultant at short notice, helping patients avoid having to go into A&E at Southmead or the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI). Plans are also being finalised to provide a new wounds dressing weekend service at Cossham from July. See our website - theweekin.co.uk - to find out what happened at the public consultation meeting

Wine tasting The Friends of Wellsway PTA are holding a wine tasting evening on Friday 9th May in Lansdown Hall, Wellsway School at 7.30pm. Tickets are £10 each and include a buffet supper. The wine is being supplied by Majestic Wines. Tickets are available from Wellsway School's Student Support department or Norville Opticians on Bath Hill, Keynsham. in 20 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Police and FA investigations after trouble at Mangotsfield v Taunton

TownThe police and Football match Association have launched investigations after ugly scenes at Mangotsfield United Football Club’s recent game against Taunton Town. The referee sent off Mangotsfield player Clayton Fortune towards the end of the match at the Viridor Stadium and after the final whistle, red cards were issued to fellow players Ashley Williams and Ibrahima Diallo. All three red cards were given for violent conduct. Mangotsfield say the investigations include alleged racist comments aimed at their players and issued the following statement: “There has been a lot of speculation regarding what happened at the Taunton Town game on 12th April. The events are subject to both police and FA investigations. Consequently, the club cannot make specific comments. “However, we can confirm that investigations include alleged racist comments. These alleged comments were made both on the field and from people attending the match. “The club is seeking advice from the FA on how to support our “The match ended on an unpleasant note when Mangotsfield's players who were subject to the alleged comments. This is a Clayton Fortune was shown a straight red card after an very difficult time for everyone connected with the club. altercation in the Taunton box and further unsavoury scenes “We can confirm that the referee sent off Clayton Fortune followed after the final whistle.” towards the end of the match. After the final whistle, red cards were issued to Ashley Williams and Ibrahima Diallo. All three red cards were given for violent conduct. “As a football club we do not agree with racism. Due to the alleged circumstances, we need to be fully supportive of what the players allegedly endured. However, we cannot condone their behaviour. The football club puts its trust in the final FA and police findings and will be fully behind the outcome.” The Calor League game ended in a 2-1 victory for Taunton Town. An Avon & Somerset police spokeswoman said: “We're investigating an allegation of assault at Taunton Town Football Club shortly after 5pm on Saturday 12th April. “At the end of the match, which was against a team from Mangotsfield, a man has reported being punched and kicked. He attended Musgrove Park Hospital for treatment to his injuries. “An investigation is under way to establish the circumstances of the assault. Three males are due to be voluntarily interviewed by police as part of our inquiries. “There have been no arrests made at this stage and the investigation is on-going.” The spokeswoman added that there had been no complaint about racial comments made to the police. We asked Taunton Town’s chairman Kevin Sturmey to comment further last week but as we went to print we had still not had a response from the club. After the game the club’s website made this passing reference:

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in 26 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Planning Applications

Kingswood Costa coming to Kingswood? Plans to open a Costa coffee shop in the Kings Chase Shopping Centre have been revealed. The plans have been lodged with South Gloucestershire Council by KFG Quickserve Ltd, a subsidiary of the Kout Food Group, which took over South West Coffee last year. The application is for the old Clinton Cards unit. The application involves a change of use from retail (Class A1) to coffee shop (Class A3). Anyone wishing to make a comment on the plans (reference number PK14/1224/F) is invited to do so by 5th May.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 27 Hanham Alzheimer’s Society bus visits Keynsham Spring fair at Representatives from the Alzheimer’s Society were approached by dozens of ScoresMethodist of people turned out to support Church the spring fair at Hanham shoppers concerned about Methodist Church on Saturday. the onset of dementia to Lunches, tea, coffees and cakes were served and stalls themselves or their family included books, bottles and plants. There was also a quiz and a and friends. raffle. The Alzheimer’s Society is the country’s leading support and research charity and its special bus visited Tesco last Thursday. Katy Berwick, who has worked for the organisation for three and half years, initially joined as a volunteer but became so involved that she now works full-time, helping to raise awareness of all types of dementia. She said: “I enjoy face to face contact with the public and like to help those with the problem and their families by pointing them in the right direction for the services they will need. “Over a long time family and friends lose the person they once Audrey Dayer and the Rev Andrew Prout admiring the artwork of former knew and this can be very hard to deal with.” Methodist minister Paul Harvey, 89 at the spring fair Also answering questions and concerns from the public was The church is now looking forward to its annual festival of project development officer Naomi Westbury and Michael flowers on Saturday 10th May from 10am to 4pm. This year the Fenwick, a recently recruited support worker. theme will be AWalk Through Hanham, with floral The head office for Bristol and South Gloucestershire Alzheimer’s interpretations including the Blue Bowl pub, the founding father Society is based at International House in Bank Road in of Methodism John Wesley, who first preached in the open air in Kingswood (0117 961 0693). People in the Bath & North East 1739 to the colliers of the Kingswood area, local hero John Somerset area can ring 01225 396426. Chiddy, the shoe and boot industry and the war memorial, Dementia Awareness Week runs from Sunday 18th May to marking 100 years since the start of World War One. Saturday 24th May and is supported by the Alzheimer’s Society. The flower arranging team are also taking part in a flower For the 800,000 people currently diagnosed with the disease and festival at the New Room, John Wesley’s chapel in Bristol city the 400,000 estimated to have it but not yet diagnosed, it is time centre, to celebrate the 275th anniversary of the laying of the for recognition, support and understanding. foundation stone of the building. The festival, called Lord for the Years, will run from Wednesday Hanham 21st to Saturday 24th May. The plan is to represent the many aspects of John and Charles Wesley’s ministry and reflect their passion for preaching, education, healthcare, justice and TheW Friendsoodland of Avon Valley Woodlands workout are looking for volunteers concern for the poor. to help in their work in the management of the Local Nature Reserve comprising Conham, Hencliff and Bickley woods - and for those keen to improve their health in physical outdoor work and Townswomen's boost their practical skills. The plan is that volunteers spend Wednesday mornings in teams Guild open day doing work ranging from building and repairing steps, clearing St Keyna Townswomen's Guild is holding a Members' Day on bramble and invasive plants, installing and maintaining Tuesday 13th May at the Fear Hall in Keynsham (9.45am - waymarking posts, building ‘dead’ hedges, clearing heritage 11.45am). This is an open invitation to ladies to come and see features and improving path surfaces. what the Guild is all about. The work will provide healthy exercise in the outdoors. If you are There will be displays from the art group, sugarcraft and hand- interested in joining the Woodland Workout pilot programme there made cards, home-made cakes and a bring and buy stall. This are introductory walks and talks with the Friends - on Wednesday year's nominated charity is the Lullaby Trust which provides 7th May at 10am at Castle Farm car park, on Wednesday 14th specialist support to bereaved families following sudden infant May at 10am at Hanham Common Pavilion and on Wednesday and cot deaths. 21st May at 10am at Conham River Park car park. The Guild meets on the second Tuesday of each month in the Just turn up on one of the above days, email your initial interest to Fear Hall. [email protected] or call 07786 790262 . in 28 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Saltford Bitton Villagers to Fundraising clean-up open their gardens Several gardens in Bitton will ofA group of kayakersRiver and canoeist took Avon part in be opening their gates to a fundraising clean-up of riverbanks in Saltford visitors on Sunday 29th June. over the Easter weekend. Gardens will be open to view For some time, litter has been building up on from noon to 5pm and programmes with a list of the banks of the stretch of river between the those taking part will be Riverside Inn and Jolly Sailor pubs. available the week before Due to the recent flooding and high water from the village shop, pub and levels, a lot of rubbish had become stuck in from Fonthill Garden Centre. the trees and bushes surrounding the river. As the group if it embarks on any further river There will be also be a plant the water levels receded, the litter remained in clean-ups. stall and cream teas at Church Farm. places, only accessible from the river itself. The organisers have thanked Globe 360, Bitton Open Gardens is a free The kayakers and canoeists decided to clean North Avon Canoe Club, Avon Outdoor it up, ready for summer for the sake of all river event organised by Bitton Activities Club and Cheeky Friday Paddle Gardening Club which is users. Club, as well as Saltford Environment Group affiliated to the residents’ The organisers contacted Tesco, whose and the Riverside Inn for their support. association. Everyone is branding was on many of the plastic bags You can still make a donation at welcome. fished out of the River Avon, to ask if they www.justgiving.com/riveravoncleanup, or pop For more information contact would make a charitable donation, but say as into the Riverside Inn or Jolly Sailor pubs Gabriel Frankcom on 932 6158 or email yet they have had no response from them. where there are donation boxes. All money [email protected] However, Wessex Water has invited the group raised will go to The Youth Adventure Trust, a Bad weather forced the to apply to its charitable trust for a donation registered youth development charity working cancellation of last year’s towards the cause and has offered support to with vulnerable young people. event.

Kingswood Life-saving machine for community centre Rotary Clubs throughout the South West have been working with the Great Western Ambulance Service to provide schools and communities with automatic external defibrillators. When someone suffers cardiac arrest it is vital that recovery action is taken as quickly as possible - the chance of survival decreases by 23% per minute. A defibrillator will apply the appropriate electrical current through the chest in order to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm. Rapid response using automated technology can significantly improve the quality of life of a survivor, as the longer the brain is starved of oxygen the more damage there will be. Kingswood Rotary Club decided that, as part of its service to the community, it would purchase a defibrillator, and chose the Kingswood Community Association as the beneficiary since it is widely used and offers a broad range of activities covering a wide age spectrum. The presentation was made at Kingswood Community Centre on 23rd April. The photograph shows Rotary Club president at the centre - the Judo club and the Redeemed Christian Brian Waring and MP Chris Skidmore presenting the Church of God (Pastor Adeyemi Ladipo is also shown in the defibrillator to Eunice Hawkins, of Kingswood Community photograph). Association. To find out more about the Rotary Club visit Whilst Kingswood Rotary Club was the main benefactor, www.kingswood.rotaryweb.org or call Harvey Henson on contributions were also made by two of the organisations based 07753 612225

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 29 St Brendan's sets up Fishponds former students' group St George’s Day Did you go to St Brendan’s Sixth Form College? If you are a former student who would like to support current Thecelebrations poor weather forecast meant Saturday’s St George in students, the college in Broomhill Road, Brislington, would the Park celebrations in Fishponds had to move indoors to love to hear from you. the Methodist Church in Guinea Lane. The college is one of more than 450 state schools and colleges across Britain which have registered with the charity Future First to set up networks of former students or alumni. The aim is for those who have left the school and achieved success to be able to offer assistance or inspiration to students just about to set out on the same journey. Alex Shapland-Howes, managing director of Future First , said: “More than 39 per cent of state school students don’t know anyone in a job they’d like to do. If they see that someone who went to the same school or college, grew up in the same community, has achieved a fulfilling and satisfying job, it helps them see it’s possible for them too. "It’s really important for all students to be motivated to succeed

Youngsters enjoying St George’s Day fun in Fishponds with from left, Lesley Alexander, John Harvey and Jean Davidge

But that didn’t dampen spirits. The event, organised by the local community group Activate, had live music from the band Canon Fodder, Morris dancing, Punch & Judy entertainment and traditional games, quizzes and puzzles for youngsters, as well as refreshments. Activate was formed in 2004 by a group of local residents with the aim of improving the area for everyone. The group sponsors lunchtime concerts at Fishponds Methodist Church and it will in the working world and hearing first hand from relatable people next be the turn of Bristol Veterans Brass on Friday 9th May in interesting jobs can make a huge difference.” from 1pm to 2pm. Ruth Pickersgill, assistant vice principal at St Brendan’s said: “We are delighted to be working with Future First to develop our .HHSXSWRGDWHZLWK alumni association. A network of past students with all their 7KH:HHN LQ valuable experience is vital in helping us to broaden current 7ZRWKLUGVRISHRSOHLQ.H\QVKDPVD\WKH\XVH students’ jobs' horizons and equipping them for the world of 7KH:HHN LQWR¿QGRXWZKDW¶VKDSSHQLQJLQWKHWRZQ work.” To find out more contact Nicky Mills, who manages the alumni programme at the college, on [email protected] Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy 2 -Hard New vicar appointed 578316294 241387965 A new vicar has been appointed to cover the parishes of Bitton, 126894753 786951423 Warmley and . 394527168 539624187 4 3 7 6 5 2 8 1 9 8 1 2 4 9 3 5 7 6 The Rev Jeremy Andrew will be licensed at St Barnabas’ Church 812739546 364175892 at Warmley on Sunday 27th July at 2pm. 659148327 957268314 He replaces the Rev Canon Paul Denyer, who retired last year. 2 4 3 9 8 5 6 7 1 6 9 8 5 3 2 7 4 1 425719638 Rev Andrew is currently a vicar in Cornwall and also Diocesan 785461932 961273485 173846259 Director of Ordinands for Truro.

in 30 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 Football Rugby Top four finish achieved Keynsham Town The league season finished with a whimper rather than a bang for Keynsham at the Crown Field on Saturday when the first win again team went down 11-5 against Chosen Hill. Keynsham Town continued their excellent form with their second It was a very poor game and a sad way to finish things off given victory over the Easter break, running out 4-3 winners over that they managed a very creditable fourth place in Western Roman Glass St George at the AJN Stadium on Easter Monday. Counties (North). Their try was scored by Ben Newman but they The hosts started brightly and took an early lead when young missed at least five certain tries through back passing/catching. forward Liam Robson raced on to a through ball down the left The seconds were beaten by Weston-super-Mare, away and flank and gave the visiting keeper no chance with a firm shot finished second last in the league. The thirds also lost against into the bottom corner. Keynsham were dominating the game, the same opposition but at home; they ended up third from last. with Pat Davison, Chris Lewis and Rich Healey all going close. The fourths had already finished their league fixtures and were However, they paid for their failure to take their chances when exactly mid-table. Roman Glass equalised in the 25th minute with a superb free- The season may extend as the first team play Chippenham in kick into the top corner. This spurred on the visitors, but it was the semi-final of the Bath Combination Cup. Keynsham who got their noses in front again just before half- time. Healey found himself in space in the box and although he scuffed his shot, it dribbled in off the post. Roman Glass posed more of a threat after the break and turned the game on its head with 15 minutes to go. Slack defending by the Ks gave the visiting No.7 too much time to react after his initial shot was blocked and he made no mistake with his second effort. Then just two minutes later a fine move sliced the Ks’ defence open and was expertly finished to put the visitors 3-2 up. However, there were more twists and turns in store, as Keynsham then responded with two goals of their own with five minutes remaining. Robson scored his second goal of the game with another cool finish to make it 3-3 and then a Sam Roberts' free-kick from the touchline completely fooled the keeper, who could only palm the ball into the top corner. Robson’s two goals have put him in pole position to win the club’s Golden Boot for club goals this season. This thrilling victory made it five wins out of six for the Ks and they play their final game of the season against Cribbs FC at the AJN Stadium Keynsham defenders snuffing out a Chosen Hill attack on Saturday 3rd May (kick-off 3pm). Crossword Solution Bowls Bowls league begins The Bristol and District Bowls League began last Thursday with Frys looking for promotion after missing out last year by a single point. Keynsham 'B' made the short journey to Somerdale on a gloomy night. The season couldn't have started any better for the home side as they picked up the maximum eight shots on only the first end. This didn't deter the visitors as they soon pulled it back. The game remained tight and with Frys 5 behind on the final rink they fell just short, Keynsham taking a 44-43 win. Back at Memorial Park, Keynsham's Ladies have been preparing for the season with two friendly matches. Results have yet to go their way, losing to Bloomfield Bath by 10 shots and Knowle by 11.

in The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014 31 in 32 The Week • Thursday 1st May 2014