THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset
20th October 2021
Issue 701
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Plans to improve Temple Street in Keynsham are revealed Residents in Keynsham are being asked how they would like Temple Street to look in the future as plans go out to public consultation. Concept design proposals to “make the area more attractive, engaging and vibrant while enhancing its historic identity” have just been released as part of the Keynsham Heritage Action Zone Programme. The £1.1m four-year project to improve the town’s Conservation Area is a partnership between Bath & North East Somerset Council, Historic England and Keynsham Town Council. Landscape architects Macgregor Smith have worked with the project partners and members of the local community to
create the proposals for Temple Street which include widened pavements, planters, cycle parking and spill-out café seating and artwork. Richard Samuel, deputy leader of B&NES Council and Cabinet member for Resources & Economic Development, said: “The concept designs have been inspired by Keynsham’s past and aim to strengthen Temple Street’s identity as an independent part of Keynsham’s High Street while promoting sustainable economic and cultural growth and improving quality of life in the town centre. “We want to celebrate Temple Street’s historic
B&NES Council says it wants to reduce the ‘dominance’ of Riverside
Also in this week’s issue
Public meeting as campaign against train cuts gathers speed . . . page 2
character while making it a more appealing and vibrant place to visit by improving the streetscape, particularly around the historic terrace of shops and the Grade II listed Trout Tavern. We also want to reduce the dominance of Riverside, revitalise underused spaces, green the street with planting and trees, improve accessibility and the street’s connection to key areas in the town such as Memorial Park. “We think these initial concept proposals address these issues, but it’s important local people shape their own community which is why I’m urging people to get involved in
Temporary access to Keynsham Park mooted as probe of unsafe bridge continues . . . page 3
the consultation and help inform the detailed design proposals.” During the six-week consultation, which runs until Monday 22nd November, a series of drop-in sessions and physical and virtual meetings will be held for residents, businesses and community groups to provide feedback and have their voices heard. Chair of Keynsham Town Council Cllr Andy Wait said: "Temple Street has a huge potential to become something very special in Keynsham. The first step in this renaissance is the upgrading of the public spaces on the street. Please take the time to look at the proposed upgrade and comment. This is your chance to give an opinion on the changes suggested. Your views count. It isn't too late for these ideas to change.” Visit HiKeynsham.co.uk to find out more. Continued on page 3
Council blocks proposed 5G mast in Hanham . . . page 4
Retirement home residents back Cossham Hospital campaign . . . pages 6 & 7
Public meeting to Regional meeting cancelled after council discuss direct train cuts leaders’ boycott More than 2,500 people have signed the petition we highlighted in last week’s
2
Four council leaders pulled out of a meeting with Metro Mayor Dan Norris
issue, calling for through trains to
last Friday at which millions of pounds of regional investment was due to
continue running from Bristol to London
be considered.
Waterloo,
and
campaigners
Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees and the leaders of South Gloucestershire, Bath
organised
a
meeting
& North East Somerset and North Somerset councils – Toby Savage, Kevin
(Wednesday).
Guy and Don Davies – refused to attend the meeting of the West of England
Direct trains from Bristol, Keynsham, Bath,
Combined Authority & West of England Joint Committee citing concerns
Bradford-on-Avon and Trowbridge to
over the Mayor’s power of veto.
London Waterloo via Salisbury are due to
When the Mayor arrived at City Hall in Bristol he found the booking of
cease in December. There was no
from Bristol and Bath to South London. It connects
the council chamber had been cancelled. A meeting was held instead in a
consultation with rail user groups or local
to much of the South East. It provides much needed
side room and the public forum went ahead as normal. But no decisions
authorities, with the announcement being made in a
extra capacity.”
were able to be taken on any of the reports on the agenda as the committee
South
Graham Ellis, who is organising the meeting, said:
was inquorate. This included a £60m green recovery fund.
consultation.
“This has all the hallmarks of a Whitehall decision
Mr Norris said it may take the government to intervene to break the
The West Wilts Rail User Group, Railfuture
made on poor and incorrect data, news sneaked out
deadlock and that there are similar tensions between councils and
Severnside and others are working together to save
in a publication about something else, and not
combined authorities across the country.
the service. Campaigners are asking that the trains
consulted on. Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon,
The Metro Mayor then went on to another meeting with politicians who
continue to run pending consultation and effective
Oldfield Park and Keynsham will be really badly
did turn up – Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, Secretary
ongoing provision.
affected, losing all of their direct trains to London.”
of State for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities. That meeting
The petition says: “This is a well-used service. No
Tonight’s public meeting is at Bethesda Baptist
subsequently had to be cut short once news broke of the terrible events in
practical alternative is available or offered. It
Church in Trowbridge and is being streamed on
Essex involving MP Sir David Amess.
provides the only through trains from London to
Zoom - https://tinyurl.com/3f2upx5m
See pages 18 & 19
Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon, Oldfield Park and
The petition is at
Keynsham. It provides the only through services
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/598397
Western
Railway
have tonight
(SWR)
timetable
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Plans to improve Temple Street in Keynsham are revealed Continued from page 1 The improvements to Temple Street are part of B&NES Council's wider High Streets Renewal Programme which will see £3.6m invested into the rejuvenation of Keynsham's High Street. This includes the separate project Keynsham High Street Public Realm Improvements Phase 1, which began in early summer. It focuses on the core High Street, including footpath decluttering, widening and resurfacing, better signage, cycling and bus stop facilities and new seating, streetlights, landscaping and trees.
Temporary park access being considered as investigations continue on unsafe bridge More investigations are due to take place later this month on the footbridge
in
Keynsham’s
Memorial Park which has been closed for two years because it is unsafe. Bath & North East Somerset Council says it is also looking into whether a
Reaction
temporary access to the park can be
There has been some initial positive reaction to the new proposals for Temple Street after the story appeared on our website. Comments include: “I think it looks lovely and some much-needed TLC would be welcome on Temple Street. Yes, will be a slight disruption to businesses … But when all finished Keynsham will look lovely and help small businesses and hopefully create new businesses.” Another observed: “Temple Street seems to be the forgotten end of Keynsham High Street where care, attention and rejuvenation is concerned. Yes, there will be some disruption but how amazing is it that our high street has been chosen.” However, one person said: “Really, what do we want with all them planters and trees, it will only get destroyed, waste of bloody money, put it to better use.” And another felt a better variety of outlets is needed in the town centre, including clothes shops: “I can remember Woolworths, Fads, Fosters men’s shop, fishmonger, etc. Bring the old Keynsham town back.”
created to make it easier for people who’ve been unable to use the footbridge over the weir since October 2019. The bridge crosses the River Chew in the vicinity of Avon Mill Lane and Bath Hill. Following a visual inspection, the council declared the bridge was unsafe because beams had decayed. Barriers were
Memorial Park Bridge, so we are looking into the feasibility
put up at both sides of the bridge and alternative routes
of providing a new, temporary access to the park from Bath
signposted. At the time the council leader said the bridge
Hill.
would remain closed while its condition was fully
“This would provide a more direct route for residents using
investigated, and a decision taken on the next steps.
the playground on the corner of Bath Hill and Avon Mill
At the end of 2020 frustrated local councillors started a
Lane.
petition calling on B&NES to get on and repair the
“We‘re planning to undertake some further investigations of
footbridge, highlighting how inconvenient the closure is to a
the existing bridge later this month which should enable us
great many people who used it.
to establish timescales to the end of the project.”
Investigations so far have concluded that repairs could extend
• The council has also responded to our question about why
the bridge’s life span for up to 10 years but it doesn’t have
bollards have been placed in the park, which we reported on
the required structural capacity to meet current design
last week. Cllr David said: “The bollards in the park have
standards.
been recycled from the High Street and were installed by our
A new steel bridge on the existing foundations is considered
grounds team to prevent driving on the grass. Normally the
to be the best solution to reopen the route across the river,
park team would have to replace the soil and re-seed the area
subject to the existing foundations being able to take the
every year to repair the damage done by cars.”
weight. With renewed calls for the bridge to be sorted out, Cllr Jess David, B&NES Cabinet assistant for Neighbourhood Services, said this week: “We appreciate the alternative river crossing is not as convenient to some park users as the
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
3
Planners object to proposed 5G mast near Hanham shops has
harmful impact. The council’s report
landscaping.
result in harm and it is considered that this
objected to the proposed 15-metre high 5G
observed: “The area is flat and open with a
“It is considered that an unacceptable level
unreasonable impact is not justified by
phone mast near the Memorial Road
mix of residential, shops and open space in
of visual and residential amenity impact
technical need and supporting details in the
shops in Hanham, saying it would “tower”
the immediate vicinity providing a good open
would accrue from the siting. This would
application for this particular site.”
above nearby homes.
nature and perception to the area as a
CK Hutchison Networks asked for prior
whole… The mast, at 15 metres high, would
approval to install the monopole, which
be a very imposing structure upon and within
would have a wraparound cabinet plus three
the area and highly visible from a number of
equipment cabinets, at the junction with
directions and distances.
Whittucks Road, opposite Hanham Common.
“The mast would tower above the nearby
Hanham Abbots parish councillors had
residential properties.”
voted by a majority last month to raise no
The report said there are no similar structures
objection.
or significant street furniture in the vicinity
South
But
Gloucestershire
the
planning
Council
authority
South
to which the proposals could be likened to
Gloucestershire Council said it would have a
and no screening from trees, buildings or
THE WEEK IN Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge. 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Keynsham Foodbank reopens at church as team prepare for ‘significant’ rise in clients With the removal of the £20 Universal Credit uplift, Keynsham Foodbank says like others around the country, it is getting ready to help an increasing number of people, many of whom never thought they would ever need such help. The team say that the biggest cut in welfare payments since the Second World War comes at a time of significant increases in fuel bills, the end of the last stages of furlough, and the removal of eviction protection for renters. Garry Wheadon, project manager at Keynsham Foodbank, said: “The volunteer team at Keynsham Foodbank often take calls from people in urgent need of food. If you, a friend, family member or colleague need our help, please do not wait until the cupboard is bare. You do not need to sell the TV. If you need us, we are here for you. “The Keynsham Foodbank team are as ready as we can be for what we think will be a difficult and busy autumn and winter. We are anticipating significant increases in local
Earlier this summer, the Keynsham Foodbank volunteer team
Keynsham Foodbank’s collect-at-our-door service for clients
people in our community in food crisis.”
restarted their ‘collect-from-our-door’ service at St Mary’s in
with eVouchers is available at the following times:
To further support local people, the third Keynsham
Saltford, swiftly followed by St Francis in Keynsham in
• Mondays 10am to noon, Victoria (side entrance on Charlton
Foodbank centre at Victoria Methodist Church in the centre
September. The reopening of Victoria marks the final stage
Road), Keynsham.
of town reopened its doors for collection of food parcels from
in Keynsham Foodbank’s reopening for collection and return
• Thursdays 10am to noon, St Francis Church, Keynsham.
Monday.
to usual.
• Fridays 10.15am to 11.45am, from St Mary’s Hall, Saltford.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
5
Marion, 93, rallies retirement home residents More than 700 readers have so far backed a new campaign for a minor injury unit at Cossham Hospital – including residents of a retirement complex in Staple Hill who collected more than 50 signatures. The Week In launched the petition earlier this month in response to calls from readers.
Park View Court residents
6
After reading about the renewed fight to get the promised unit open, 93-year-old Marion Watts, of Park View Court, decided to act. She spoke to home manager Pete Fowler, who printed out a form for Marion to take round for people to sign. Marion, who has lived at the home for eight years, having previously lived in nearby Riviera Crescent, said she had
never organised a petition or campaigned like this before. She said: “Everyone was eager to sign it. You could be up to Cossham, be treated and be back home by the time it takes you to get to Southmead Hospital and I thought why not, Cossham Hospital belongs to us anyway. It might not benefit me but the younger generation it could.” Many people at Park View Court have memories of when Cossham had a casualty department and they had been there for treatment including stitches after childhood injuries. Mavis Mansell, now 94, told us how she was taken to the hospital for emergency treatment when she was 38 after almost losing her foot in a road collision. And fellow resident Margaret Dodge echoed what Marion said about Cossham being just up the road and said that a minor injury unit there is very muchneeded. “It’s too far to go to the one at Yate,” she said. There are similar comments on the online petition: “Having had occasion to go all the way to Yate from Hanham, a more local unit is a much better option for people this side of Bristol.” “Cossham Hospital is an asset to the people of East Bristol, which was saved from closure by those people,” says another. “They were promised a minor injuries unit when Frenchay was closed, typically
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
to back Cossham campaign this was a politician’s promise! East Bristol needs Cossham more daily as a fully operational hospital.” Another has commented: “Born and growing up in Keynsham I’ve experienced the closure of smaller hospitals which were much needed by the communities surrounding them. Whitchurch has an excellent community hospital incorporating a MIU and Cossham could be one too for East Bristol. It IS needed and I urge the CCG to implement one.” Some people have added comments to their petition forms which have been returned to us. Messages included: “We so need Cossham MIU to service us residents in this part of South Glos who are just forgotten. Yate too far, no car.” Another wrote: “It would be what Handel Cossham gave us this building for, for use of all the people.” If you wish to add your name to the petition fill out the form on this page or sign it online – search for Cossham Hospital on the PetitionOnline.uk website. The long wait also goes on for the promised community hospital at Frenchay - see page 12. See also Letters, page 10
Charting hospital’s history Manager Pete Fowler with Marion Watts with her petition
We call on the Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group to return to the original undertaking to implement a minor injury unit at Cossham Hospital. Name .......................................................................................................................................... Address .................................................................................................................................... Postcode............................................ Signed ....................................................................... Send your signed form to: Cossham MIU c/o The Week In, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham, BS31 1HA The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Handel Cossham (1824 – 1890) was a colliery owner, lay preacher and Liberal politician. He was a benevolent employer who built houses and schools. He represented the St Paul's ward on Bristol City Council during the 1860s, was Mayor of Bath from 1882 to 1885 and at the 1885 General Election was elected as MP for the new Bristol East constituency. When he died in 1890, an estimated 30,000 people lined the streets of Bristol to pay their respects. In his will Cossham directed his trustees to build and endow a hospital for the treatment and relief of the sick and injured. Cossham Memorial Hospital opened in 1907. In 2005 plans to close Cossham completely were reversed after protests from local residents. Instead the hospital underwent a £19m refurbishment, opening in January 2013 providing a renal dialysis unit, birth centre, X-ray and scanning department, physiotherapy and outpatient appointments – but not the promised minor injury unit (MIU). The local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) admitted it was reconsidering its options over the MIU which sparked an outcry, with thousands signing a petition. However, the Health Secretary at the time, Jeremy Hunt, said the CCG was right to be considering an alternative to the MIU, which had been agreed in 2009, as evidence had since shown that such units had not reduced pressure on Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments. The CCG ended up trialling a service in all GP surgeries in South Gloucestershire to treat minor injuries but the two-year pilot scheme failed to reduce attendances at A&E. The scheme was dropped and the CCG has since put significant investment into existing services at the Yate MIU with hours extended and enhanced X-ray services brought in to increase the unit’s capabilities.
7
Kingswood Park restoration takes important step with £120k of Lottery funding South Gloucestershire Council and the Friends of Kingswood Park have successfully secured development funding of more than £120,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in the first phase of a £2.5m project to restore and enhance Kingswood Park. The initial funding grant has been awarded following an application submitted in May and will enable the council to develop proposals to apply for a full grant of over £2m in 2022. It aims to restore Kingswood Park so it forms the green ‘heart’ of Kingswood, an open space where people can go to enjoy high quality facilities, outdoor events and activities while meeting others in a relaxing and safe, well managed and welcoming environment. As well as fully restoring the park, an extensive range of activities and events will be developed that will enable more people to
become connected with the history of the local area, while promoting greater enjoyment and appreciation of the park’s heritage and values. The restoration of the park forms part of wider plans to rejuvenate Kingswood, with restoration of Whitfield Tabernacle, the council’s purchase of the Kings Chase Shopping Centre and improvements to local roads either complete, under way, or with funding secured. An overarching masterplan, on which public consultation has just finished, will set the direction of investment into Kingswood town centre in the coming years. The council’s Cabinet Member for Communities & Local Place Rachael Hunt said: “Securing this funding is a significant step forwards with our ambitious plans to comprehensively restore and enhance Kingswood Park for the enjoyment and benefit of the local community. “The Friends of Kingswood Park group have
Cllr Rachael Hunt, second from right, with Friends of Kingswood Park
already made a big contribution towards improvements and this funding bid reflects the enthusiasm and passion that local people have for the park. We want to build on the successes of previous activities and events so more people can enjoy this much-loved community asset. “It is an exciting time for everyone in Kingswood with the £25m regeneration vision for the town centre following our successful application through the Future High Streets Fund, the purchase of Kings
Chase Shopping Centre and the restoration of the Whitfield Tabernacle.” Jim Whittaker, secretary of the Friends of Kingswood Park, said: “We are overjoyed that this funding has been secured from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Although it’s the first round it’s an important development to take things forward. The park was a stalwart during COVID and was a place that people could enjoy relaxation and refuge and many will benefit from this enhancement project.”
What the project will involve The main aims of the Kingswood Park
• Contribute to the regeneration of
restoration project are to:
Kingswood town centre.
• Encourage more and a wider range of
• Improve the park landscape and
people, voluntary groups and schools to
biodiversity.
use and celebrate the park heritage with
• Make park management carbon neutral.
more events and activities.
If you would like to get involved and find
• Improve facilities for all including new
out more about the Friends of Kingswood
play equipment, better access and
Park visit www.facebook.com/ourkings
toilets.
woodpark
• Look at opportunities to provide a new
Land for Kingswood Park was acquired
park refreshment facility.
100 years ago in 1921 and was designed
• Restore paths, walls, masonry and other
and laid out in 1934 by Albert Parks, the
features.
park superintendent for Kingswood
• Share the heritage of the park and
District Council.
research its history.
Demolition plans approved Plans to demolish three stone barns at the rear of the veterinary practice at 1 Court Farm Road in Longwell Green have been given the go-ahead by South Gloucestershire Council. The reason given for the demolition is that the roofs of the barns had collapsed due to storms, making the structural walls insecure.
8
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Sophie-Anne becomes a ‘superhairo’ for charity A Hanham schoolgirl has donated her long locks to the
The 10-year-old, who goes to Hanham Abbots Junior School,
Little Princess Trust which makes wigs for children who
has a twin Sarah-Kay, an older brother Oscar, younger
lose their hair due to cancer treatment and other illnesses.
brother Logan and younger sister Aimee-Leigh, and
Sophie-Anne Palmer was inspired by knowing people who
Michaela said they are all very proud of her.
have had cancer, including her mum Michaela.
Michaela initially cut half of Sophie-Anne’s 48cm hair and then put out a plea on the social media network Nextdoor for a local hairdresser to cut the other half and create a new style. Pam Garrie, who owns Head to Toe at the top of Bath Hill in Keynsham, replied and on Friday Sophie-Anne went along and stylist Jess got to work. Pam said: “It was an absolute pleasure to offer the services of Head to Toe and our stylist Jess to Sophie-Anne, such an outstanding young lady.” Sophie-Anne is thrilled with her new look and is raising money for the charity too. There is a fundraising page for anyone
who
wishes
to
donate
at
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/michaela-palmer So far she has raised £80. The Little Princess Trust needs financial as well as hair donations to fund the actual manufacturing of the wigs and the fitting service. It has a network of more than 100 recognised wig fitters. From receiving hair donations through to fitting and styling a bespoke wig, it costs the charity from £550 to provide a real-hair wig free-of-charge to recipients. The charity Sophie-Anne with half her hair gone!
currently supplies more than 150 wigs every month. Find out more at http://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Her new look
9
LETTERS An attack on our democracy
after the news had broke. He said: “Today is a
impossible for two streams to pass each other
planet.
good day to thank an MP for their service.
without causing an accident.
According to the biggest analysis of policy
Whether or not you agree with their politics.”
I feel sure that this has got worse since the
preferences held by people in this country,
Dear Editor
I couldn’t agree more with him and that’s partly
ending of lockdown. I have on occasion,
almost 22,000 people chose their favoured mix
Last Friday, I was stood in an aisle of Tesco,
the reason I’m writing this letter. To take the
complained about the problems on local
of policies which will enable the government
talking to a local resident about a proposed
opportunity to thank our MP is something that
residential side roads with cars parked such that
to hit its 2030 target of emissions cuts – always
development in our village. Despite not
often doesn’t occur to most of us, especially
vehicles find it difficult to manoeuvre or parked
providing they lead to action!
knowing the person, I took the time to answer
when you’re a member of the opposition with
partly on the footways but, bearing in mind all
The most popular include:
their questions and give them some further
a Conservative MP. However, it really is time
the talk about reduction of emissions, the
• A carbon tax of £75 a tonne on polluting
information as their local councillor.
to end the rhetoric that demonises and
situation is now much worse with the parking
manufacturing and construction businesses.
It’s not uncommon for me to be stopped at the
dehumanises decent, hard-working public
on our main roads.
• Better integrated public transport that would
shops, while out walking, or even at the pub to
servants as all part of same corrupt, only-in-it-
Our local governments should get a grip and
be co-ordinated by the council.
discuss matters relating to Paulton and Bath
for themselves, political elite.
take action to ensure that traffic must be able
• Food campaigns and support from the
and North East Somerset. I accept this as an
And so, to Jacob Rees-Mogg MP and Wera
to move freely along all our roads without
government, supermarkets and food companies
important part of my role for Paulton residents
Hobhouse MP, and to every single councillor
having to stop and wait for an oncoming
promoting plant-based diets and cutting meat
as their elected representative and I certainly
in B&NES, whether authority, town or parish,
vehicle or stream of vehicles to pass by.
and dairy consumption by 10%.
wouldn’t want it to change.
thank you for representing us, and thank you
David Matthews, Hanham
• A maximum speed limit on cars of 60mph,
When leaving Tesco, I checked my phone to
for the work you continue to do to support our
see what I’d missed during the 45 minutes I
communities.
was without signal in the store - as would
I started this letter by describing what is part of
anyone my age. To my horror, I had several
my everyday life. I’m also sure that this is part
notifications regarding an attack on the MP Sir
of most elected representatives’ lives, and
David Amess. To say I was shocked would be
therefore they should be able to carry out these
an understatement, as I frantically read the
important conversations without any fear or
news articles to see what had happened, in
anxiety for their own wellbeing. It really is time
complete disbelief that something like this
for a kinder form of politics, the type of politics
could happen again in the UK.
that David Amess stood for.
The entire time I was driving back to work my
May he rest in peace.
mind could only think of one thing, and that
Grant Johnson
which will reduce petrol consumption by 7.5 million litres per day and diesel by 13.75
An open letter
million, which in turn will reduce pollution and
To whom it may concern Please may we have our minor injuries unit at Cossham Hospital. There are many older people living here who are liable to have falls and other minor injuries. The buses are not always available and to travel to Southmead or get an ambulance is a long way if you are hurt or need treatment. It is a worry for us and our families who may
was the outcome of this awful attack.
not be on hand to help.
Unfortunately, my return to the office didn’t
P Baden-Maggs, Kingswood
deaths therefrom (this could be improved .by a rationing scheme for fuel as well, neither of which would stop us from using our cars). • Reducing car numbers in city centres. These were supported by between 77% and 94% of the representative sample consulted. At these levels the government cannot hide behind the argument that people will not tolerate positive steps. Those of us involved in Transition Keynsham have been doing what we can to help the fight
bring with it any good news, as I learnt that Sir
Extra emissions
David had sadly died.
Dear Editor
It goes without saying that in a democracy,
So, we’re rapidly getting back to ‘normality’
politicians should only have to leave office
are we? Or are we moving into a ‘new normal’
when voted out or through retirement, this is
situation?
what makes David Amess' murder a tragedy,
Personally, I think it’s the latter – at least when
not just for his family, friends and constituents,
one considers the vehicles on our roads. With
but for our democracy as we know it.
the approaching COP26, I think it’s about time
The tragic murder of an MP still sits heavily in
that our local and/or national governments
the hearts of most of us, as it was only five
began to get a grip of the amount of emissions
Share your experiences
years ago we were mourning the loss of Jo Cox
that are being released, unnecessarily, by traffic
South Gloucestershire Council wants to hear about people’s experiences since the easing
MP. For her widow, Brandon Cox, everything
on the roads.
of national restrictions, and your views on vaccinations and testing.
was brought back to life in a way I don’t think
I will explain. I have noticed that, even on our
By completing this survey by Sunday 31st October, the council says you will be helping
any of us could possibly imagine. His strength
‘main roads’, vehicles are being parked on both
to shape the support it gives to residents and local organisations.
and passion to make sure we have a kinder
sides of the carriageway, thereby causing one
Visit https://tinyurl.com/235vme7b
politics in this country was demonstrated soon
or other stream of traffic to stop because it is
10
against the damage being done to our planet
Focus on COP26
and all its life forms and are hoping for big
To whom it may concern
changes to emerge from Glasgow next month
Some good news as we move closer to
which we can all support. If not…?
the crucial COP26 meeting in Glasgow
Tony Mitchell
which could determine the future of our
On behalf of Transition Keynsham
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Regional cyclo-cross championships to be held in Keynsham next month Keynsham will be hosting British Cycling’s regional
the youngest riders starting
cyclo-cross championships at the ShamXross track at
at 9am, through to mid-
Somerdale next month.
afternoon for the faster
ShamXross is the specialist cyclo-cross course, created on
categories, the organisers
the Somerdale Meadows and designed and run by local riders
say this all-day family-
Kev Brewer and Steve Glass with the support of Taylor
friendly event will also
Wimpey on private land.
feature live commentary, a
Cyclo-cross is described as being like steeplechase on a bike.
DJ,
It is very popular in Belgium where it attracts thousands of
atmosphere with frites and
spectators and top riders are treated like football stars. Men,
mayo!
women and children ride and the sport has a strong ethic of
Local course designer and
being family-friendly.
director Kev Brewer said:
At ShamXross, the 2.3km circuit over grass, mud, gravel and
“Cyclo-cross is enormous
sand, with man-made barriers and banks, provides great
fun to watch, there are
viewing for the spectators as riders on modified drop-handle
always thrills and spills,
road bikes see how many circuits they can complete in one
with riders trying to jump
hour.
barriers and stay upright
The track includes steep sections which tests riders’ grit,
around what is quite a tricky
determination and balance, and sections where riders are
course. The muddier the
Alistair Stuart Campbell joined us at the September race and
forced to dismount. As part of the Keynsham circuit a
better, as that’s when it gets unpredictable. It’s free to come
his images from ShamXross will feature in an article in the
‘double spiral’ has been cut into the grass track, resulting in
and watch, and we love to have a crowd down on the course
December issue of Digital Camera Magazine.”
some amazing photographs as streams of riders ride into and
cheering the riders on. Traditionally spectators bring cow
The organisers say that anyone can enter the race - don’t let
out of the spiral at the same time.
bells to make some noise, but pots and pans work well too.”
the ‘Regional Championships’ tag put you off.
The sport caters for all abilities and fitness levels, with plenty
The first Western Cyclo-Cross League race since COVID
You can enter via the British Cycling website in advance. For
of spectator support and interaction adding to the infectious
was held at ShamXross last month with a record 250
those who want to improve their skills, sessions with
atmosphere. The most successful riders need a good level of
racers.
qualified coaches for complete beginners all the way through
fitness, but often those with smooth clean riding skills and
Gwen Edwards, who is part of the ShamXross team, added:
to seasoned racers are held.
some luck are rewarded, especially during the muddier
“Cyclo-cross is a great sport to photograph. The circuit
British Cycling also run their Regional School of Racing
winter events, where riders have to carefully negotiate tight
means that you’ll have many chances to get the shot you’re
events at ShamXross for talented youth riders.
off camber turns and quickly dismount to run up steep
after, and there is always something of interest to pay
Find out more about the event on the British Cycling website:
slippery banks.
attention to. Here at Somerdale, the backdrop of the wooded
https://tinyurl.com/ShamXrossRegionalChamps2021
The British Cycling Regional Championships will be held
hills often delivers dramatic skies and big vistas.
You can also find out more about events at
there on Keynsham Sunday 28th November. With racing for
“We were really chuffed that local photography legend
https://www.facebook.com/ShamXross/
and
a
Belgian
Sudoku 1-Easy
Picture credit: Alistair Stuart Campbell
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 24th October
2 -Hard
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (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-4pm) 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 20th October 2021
11
The wait for Frenchay’s promised community hospital drags on As well as the fight to get the minor injury unit at Cossham, campaigners are still battling for a promised community hospital at Frenchay, three and a half miles away. In 2004, as part of an NHS reorganisation, it was decided that services at either Frenchay Hospital or Southmead Hospital would need to be relocated. In 2005, it was determined that Southmead would become the major hospital site, and Frenchay would be redeveloped into a smaller, community hospital, the aim being to reduce bed-blocking at Southmead by providing space for discharged patients who needed further care. The old Frenchay Hospital closed in 2014 when the new superhospital at Southmead, run by North Bristol NHS Trust, opened. Much of the site at Frenchay has become housing but the land reserved for health facilities remains undeveloped. Barbara Harris has been at the forefront of the campaign to
Southmead
Crossword
get the community hospital and gives us an update. “Under the original agreement in 2005, land was set aside for the building of a community hospital at Frenchay. Now the residents of South Gloucestershire have been promised a 50bed rehabilitation unit within a care home (residents will note that this is not the community hospital which was first promised) and in addition, 12 extra care housing units on the Frenchay site on land which has been reserved for that purpose. “However, out of the blue and as part of a new stroke pathway initiative, the reserved Frenchay site suddenly was given as one of the choices for third stage stroke rehabilitation in brochures detailing four choices of site. The requirement was for 30 stroke rehabilitation beds. “We moved quickly to question Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group (BNSSG CCG) about this and to receive an assurance that our 50 community rehabilitation beds are ‘ring-fenced’ and safe. The BNSSG CCG gave an assurance that the 30 stroke beds would be in addition to the 50 beds already agreed. “In a letter to us dated 4th August 2021, local MP Jack Lopresti quoted Chris Cox, asset manager at South Gloucestershire Council Property Services: ‘The land for the proposed healthcare facility on the former Frenchay Hospital site is owned by the North Bristol NHS Trust which is looking to develop the site with a mixture of healthcare and residential uses. It is currently working in partnership with the CCG and South Gloucestershire Council to deliver a 50bed rehabilitation unit and 12 extra care housing units on the
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Hard to understand (8)
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6. Wharf (4)
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decoration (8)
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11. Speed (mus.) (5)
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16. Belief (5)
24. Equivalent (4)
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29. Church service (4)
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33. Part of church (8)
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3. African fly (6)
Barbara Harris
site in addition to general needs housing. ‘The parties have jointly appointed consultants who are advising on feasibility, planning and marketing for the proposed scheme. This exercise is anticipated to take three to four months, after which we will be in a position to progress the marketing and procurement for the site.’ “On learning about the proposal for general needs housing, we immediately wrote to Tricia Down (Associate Director of Strategic Estate Development and Sustainable Health at North Bristol NHS Trust) saying we are totally opposed to any of the reserved land now being sold off to a developer for general housing. It must be for the provision of the community hospital and nothing else. It is our opinion that if land is sold for other purposes, it will severely limit the promised provision. “Jack Lopresti, when asked the reason why Frenchay Community Hospital was not on Boris Johnson’s list of 40 ‘new’ hospitals replied it was ‘because Frenchay Community Hospital was already in the pipeline to be built’. “Since 2012 we have waited for our community hospital provision which was intended to be an essential part of the patient pathway into and out of Southmead Hospital and without which patient discharge is curtailed. “The number of people detained in hospital who are medically fit for discharge but with no suitable place to move to can vary between 170 and 130, according to reports. This means that patients who are in need to be treated cannot be admitted for their procedures as the beds are blocked. The NHS now admits that Southmead Hospital is 200 beds short of their requirement, having previously denied this. “South Gloucestershire’s expansion continues apace at Filton and our population increases accordingly with no increase in our healthcare provision whatsoever. We have assurances from all three responsible parties that Frenchay Community Hospital will be built and a real estate agent has been appointed and a decision will be made in November 2021, we are informed. “The question over the last nine years is, when will that be? Sooner or later?” The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Record number of Treading a greener path new homes built in South Glos A record 1,650 new homes were completed in South Gloucestershire during 2020/21, despite the impact on the construction industry of the pandemic. The council says it works closely with housebuilding companies, large and small, to help ensure their schemes fit with aspirations for high-quality, sustainable new homes, which provide a good choice to meet the needs of everyone. The latest figures represent a record number of new homes in any year since 2006 and means that more households now have access to homes to rent and buy; 403 of these new homes are classed as ‘affordable’, including 305 for social renting, eight for affordable rent and 90 for shared ownership schemes. This represents more than 40 per cent of the total number of affordable new homes completed in the last year across the West of
England. The new homes have been delivered on both large and small-scale developments, with 1,258 being completed on sites with more than 10 units, and 392 as part of projects of one to nine new houses. The council said: “Both the overall number of new homes and those which are affordable completed in the past year are above our targets and we are pleased that construction in the district has remained resilient. Not only does this keep people employed locally but offers the prospect of housing being available for the next generation of South Gloucestershire residents close to where they grew up. “The growth in available housing supports local businesses to attract and retain staff who contribute to our local economy and strengthens our community.”
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
South Gloucestershire Council’s Streetcare team has just resurfaced a 1.23 km stretch of the Bristol to Bath Railway Path trialling Tarmac made using old tyres for the first time. The section covered was from Staple Hill through the old Mangotsfield Station and on to Siston. The car tyres are shredded up into a rubber crumb and have all the metallic elements removed. This process means the council was able to recycle approx 370 end-of-life redundant car tyres. This greener surfacing method means fewer tyres are exported (around one in four go to Asia) ending up in landfill. The council has won praise from local residents for the initiative with comments on the council’s Facebook page including: “Great work and good use of waste.” Another asked: “Do you have a plan to upgrade more as it is very smooth and quiet to cycle on? Or work with Bristol City Council/ B&NES Council to do the whole thing?”
13
Extra police patrols have cut violent street crime Extra patrols have cut street-based violent
possession of a zombie knife. He has now
“It’s not always possible for us to resource
crime, including in Lyde Green, say Avon
been charged with possession of a bladed
this type of activity, so the extra funding
& Somerset Police.
article.”
from the Home Office is hugely welcome
They have gone “back to basics”, using part
Incidents have been de-escalated and there
and is already making a big difference.
of a £660,000 Home Office fund for insight-
have been arrests in other hotspots in Bristol,
We’ve had shopkeepers telling us that the
led patrols in areas of high demand.
Bath, Weston-super-Mare, Bridgwater and
anti-social behaviour and problems they
Since June additional foot patrols have seen
Frome.
have suffered outside their shops has
officers engaging with the public when and
Street-based ‘Violence Against the Person’
disappeared completely.
where violent crime is likely to occur. Initial
offences have reduced by approximately
“As well as the visible reassurance these
figures indicate these targeted patrols have
10% in the identified locations during this
patrols offer to the community, having
brought about significant decreases in crime
period, with a 17% reduction in the most
officers in the right place at the right time
and anti-social behaviour.
violent offences, including GBH. There have
means we have been able to break up fights
Among the highlights to date was in the Lyde
been 99 fewer violent crimes committed in
before they have escalated, prevented
across the force which correlate to areas with
Green area: “Officers on patrol were able to
these areas during this time than would
weapons from being used and taken drugs
a large number of licensed premises. In
quickly respond when a member of the
usually occur.
off the streets.”
addition there are 52 local ‘hotspots’
public phoned police about two teenage boys
The force’s lead for serious violence,
The areas prioritised for the additional
benefitting from increased high visibility
they thought they had seen carrying knives
Superintendent
said:
patrols have been identified through analysis
patrols,
in a basketball court.
“Providing a regular presence in locations
of data and from listening to local
neighbourhood police teams supporting this
“The officers were in the right place at the
where crime often takes place is invaluable,
communities. There are 20 ‘hotspot’ areas
work.
right time and following a foot chase,
not only in reducing crime but also helping
detained one of the boys who was in
people to feel safe.”
James
Raphael,
officers
from
local
More than 100 people take part in mini walking festival The organisers of Keynsham’s recent mini walking festival are celebrating its success. As part of the festival held over the weekend of 9th and 10th October, Keynsham Walkers are Welcome raised £490 for Children in Need by taking part in the BBC Countryfile Ramble. There were three walks arranged of varying standards over the weekend with well over 100 people taking part. The first, led by Dave Johnson, took walkers towards Bitton along the Railway Path, then back along the River Avon. The second was shorter, led by Derek Butler,
14
with
and a circular walk either side of the River Chew to Chewton Place. The last and longest one, again led by Dave Johnson, took walkers along the River Avon to Hanham, coming back via Hanham Woods. A refreshment stop was held at the Old Lock & Weir. This was the Countryfile Ramble walk and a total of 35 people took part. The festival finished with a social quiz held at Club@22 in Keynsham. Dave Johnson, who chairs Keynsham Walkers are Welcome, said: “We hope to be back next year with a bigger festival.”
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Pupils experience life as wartime evacuees Pupils from Castle Primary School in Keynsham have experienced what it was like to be an evacuee in World War Two. Ninety children from Years 5 and 6 went to Cranmore in Somerset as part of their history studies earlier this month. Dressed in period costume they boarded coaches and headed south on the A37. When they arrived at the East Somerset Railway they were greeted by Lisa Pool and her team of volunteers who made the trip an extraordinary experience. Firstly, they were given identity cards. They represented the jobs evacuees would have taken on to earn their ‘balance’, which enabled them to stay at their given home. The groups were led to the ticket booth/museum, where a member of staff explained what it was like to be in charge of the tickets. After filling out a quiz sheet and having waited patiently on the platform, they waved goodbye to Cranmore Station, climbing aboard the steam train and starting their journey along the line, through the countryside, to Mendip Vale, just like the first evacuees of 1939 had done all over the country.
The pupils were then taken back to the station where the guard told them about his job and let them have a go at signalling. They also enjoyed lunchtime rations and did other activities including a trip on the mini railway. Ali Richards, the school’s business manager, said: “East Somerset Railway staff found the Castle children ‘sparky, resilient and good company’. Castle express heartfelt thanks to the railway's team of committed, enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers for making the day so memorable for everyone - children and adults alike - and bringing learning to life.”
Avon Valley Railway welcomes seasonal visitor Metro Mayor Dan Norris helped Bitton-based Avon Valley Railway launch its upcoming season of Santa Special train rides last week. Volunteers and trustees talked with Mr Norris about how they are getting back on track after the pandemic’s impact, with the Metro Mayor helping to promote the festive family steam train rides which begin next month and run all the way through to Christmas Eve. Pictured from left are the railway’s commercial manager Mark Simmons, volunteer Robert May, Dan Norris, chair of trustees Roger Eynon and volunteer Andrew Dent.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
15
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
New programmes for KTCRfm Local radio station KTCRfm is adding four new programmes to its schedule from this week. The Folk and Blues Show starts on Monday evenings at 9pm. Richard Harris, who is well known among the Bristol folk music fraternity, plays an hour of music which he describes as “from the less well-known to the more obscure”. Another show which may well resonate with readers is on Wednesdays at 11am. The Old Gits Rule brings together veteran broadcasters John Ford, Chris Kiddle, Dave Southway and Chris Wood to discuss things that matter to
men of a certain age. We are promised plenty of laughs, great stories and a sprinkling of classic hits to keep us entertained. Later that day, Jelli Records take to the airwaves at 10pm with a showcase of music, much of it from local artists. And on Fridays at 7pm KTCRfm will be broadcasting Shoutout. This is a radio show for the LGBT community which is produced in Bristol and syndicated through other stations in the area. Featuring live guests, the programme covers a range of subjects from the deadly serious to the
Oldland parish awards evening The Oldland Parish Council awards evening was held at Cadbury Heath Hall on 6th October. Chairman Cllr Richard Pope hosted a successful event that was an opportunity to showcase some of the skills, talents and hard work of members of the local community. Cup, prizes and certificates were awarded to winners in the Parish in Bloom competition and the art competition, and awards were given in the Community Award category. Pictured right is Doug Campbell from the Mustard Tree Wombles, a volunteer litter picking team, receiving an award. Medals were also awarded on behalf of Cadbury Heath Library for those who had completed the 2021 Summer Reading
Challenge including Nikita Jenkins Taylor, pictured below.
ridiculously funny. You can listen to KTCRfm on 105.8 or live stream and listen again at www/ktcrfm.com
Beware of fraudsters’ WhatsApp scam Avon & Somerset Police are urging people to be wary of a scam where fraudsters pretend via WhatsApp to be the son or daughter of the victim and in need of money. They advise people to look out for the following signs it may be a scam: • The message comes from a different number to the victim’s son or daughter. • The fraudster makes an excuse for using an unknown number, such as the family member's phone is broken or out of battery. • A time-critical emergency is created to pull at the emotional heartstrings and to
force the victim to make a quick decision. • The fraudster tends to ask the victim to make an urgent bank transfer to a new account or one belonging to a friend of the family member. People are urged not to transfer any money to the account details given via the message. Do not provide any personal financial information such as your PIN or answers to security questions. Call your family member on a number you know belongs to them to check with them whether they legitimately require money. Report it to Action Fraud online or on 0300 123 2040.
Page Park achieves Green Flag status again Page Park has been awarded the Green Flag Award for the third year running. The prestigious award recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces. Judges assessed the park against strict criteria including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement. The Friends of Page Park are a non-profit making, voluntary group of local residents
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
and park users whose aim is to protect and improve the park and its facilities. This week they said: “Big thanks to everyone in grounds maintenance, Paul Fealey who has now left South Gloucestershire Council, and all our Friends of Page Park volunteers.”
17
Half a billion pounds to sort West of England Metro Mayor Dan
transport infrastructure during their
£540m will be spent are contained in the
frequency (more than five buses per hour)
Norris took the opportunity to thank
curtailed meeting in Bristol last Friday.
Mayor’s City Region Sustainable Transport
while almost a quarter are low frequency
Prime Minister Boris Johnson for the
While the package is still awaiting the final
Settlement (CRSTS) which was published
(every one hour or more).
government commitment to the region’s
green light, details of where the anticipated
last month.
In 2017 fewer than 80% of services were on
It brings together previous and ongoing
time and in 2019 Bristol was ranked the 6th
transport projects from the West of England
most congested city in England. With the
Joint Local Transport Plan, Key Route
population in the West of England due to
Network, 10-Year Rail Delivery Plan, Bus
grow by 200,000 to 1.3 million in the next
Service Improvement Plan (see opposite)
15 years, the number of trips will grow by
and
25% in that time.
18
the
Local
Cycle
and
Walking
Infrastructure Plan.
The solution is laid out in six different ‘work
But before looking in more detail at the
packages’ with the aim to integrate them into
plans, the document also reminds us of some
a sustainable transport infrastructure within
very real issues which need addressing. In
the next 15 years. Work Package 1 focuses
2019 the West of England was among the
on improving public transport corridors,
lowest regions in the country for spending
building on the Bus Service Improvement
per head on public transport and only one in
Programme.
11 people commute by bus. Two-thirds of us
concentrate on walking and cycling,
travel by car and yet 40% of those car
developing the rail infrastructure and
journeys are less than 2km. Only 7% of bus
accelerating plans for a mass transit system.
services in the region are classed as high
Financial provision is also made for
The
following
packages
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
out the region’s transport innovation and trialling new schemes, as
transport hub at Hicks Gate is one of the city
both included in this tier with new park and
completed work east of Temple Meads to
well as for maintenance and smaller-scale
corridors identified, along with parts of
ride facilities proposed at Whitchurch and
create capacity for ‘turn up and go’ services.
projects.
Bristol city centre, the A4 Portway, M32 and
Radstock/Midsomer Norton in the south and
While reference is made to improving
A key element of the public transport
A370 (Long Ashton Park and Ride).
at the new M4 Junction 18a and Warmley
facilities at many of the existing stations, the
improvement is the creation of continuous or
The next tier is ‘town corridors’ and
(A420) in the north and east.
only new ones referred to are the ones
end-to-end bus lanes on the so-called ‘city
incorporates bus segregation where possible
The rail services work package pledges to
which have already been proposed as part
corridors’. A segregated bus route on the A4
but also links to new transport hubs on the
build on phases one and two of the
of MetroWest, with no mention yet of
between Bristol and Bath and a new
fringes of the cities. The A37 and A367 are
MetroWest programme and the recently
Saltford.
Bus Service Improvement Plan The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) is the work of the West of England Combined Authority, as the local transport authority for Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire, together with North Somerset Council. It forms the response to the government’s own National Bus Strategy which has allocated a pot of £3bn to share among local transport authorities across the country. A draft version of the BSIP was due to be discussed at last week’s meeting of the West of England Joint Committee which was not quorate due to the decision by the four council leaders not to attend. The submission for funding has to be with the Department for Transport by the end of this month. Among the aspirations is an increase in bus
frequencies to address the current situation described in the main article, and also to take more account of the 24/7 economy with more early morning and late evening services. Communities of over 1,000 people to have an hourly weekday service and bus patronage of 100 million passengers a year within a decade are two of the more eyecatching ambitions. Simple and cheaper ticketing across all bus operators and presentation of the bus network as a single system are to be delivered through an agreed bus passenger charter, while every bus will have to meet Euro VI standards by 2025 and be zero-emission by 2033. As the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement picks up, improved journey times and punctuality will come as a
Award-winning gardener publishes his second book An award-winning gardener has just had his second book published. Mark Walker, who works across South Gloucestershire, Bristol, Bath & North East Somerset as well as further afield, has written Shambolic Tapestry which is based around a garden he manages near Cadbury Hill in North Somerset. Mark grew up in Yatton and spent much of his time on Cadbury Hill, where there is an Iron Age hill fort. His love for nature influenced his career choice and Mark went on to design many spaces using natural materials. As his skills grew, he began to enter Royal Horticultural Society shows and picked up several medals, as well as raising money for charities including Weston Hospicecare, Children’s Hospice South West, The Woodland Trust and Secret World Wildlife Rescue. His new book tells the story of his native landscape through the eyes of three tree characters, the oak, the ash and the hazel. Mark is passionate about nature and is donating profits from the sale of the book to Yatton and Congresbury Wildlife Action Group.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
result of infrastructure improvements and a network design of inter-urban and orbital routes coming together at transport hubs and park and rides. With mass transit still some years away, development of the network will come initially through expansion of metrobus routes. The ‘eastern orbital’ route which is referred to in the West of England Joint Local Transport Plan, as well as the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, envisages one such service between the new Hicks Gate interchange and Emersons Green/M4 Junction 18a. How South Gloucestershire Council’s hopes for five more ‘throughabout’ junctions on the A4174 Ring Road fit into these plans will no doubt be an interesting discussion for the future.
Bishop to join service in Bitton The Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Rev Vivienne Faull, will be taking part in the morning service at St Mary’s Church in Bitton on Sunday 31st October. St Mary’s will be joined by the congregations of the other two churches in the group, St Barnabas at Warmley and St Anne’s at Syston. Residents and visitors will all be very welcome. The service starts at 10.30am.
Charity fundraiser Afternoon tea will be served at Community at 67 in Queens Road in Keynsham tomorrow (Thursday) at 4pm to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now. There is a suggested donation of £5. Shambolic Tapestry is available online from thegreatbritishbookshop.co.uk and you can find out more about Mark and his work at woodcuttersgarden.com Mark’s first book, The Woodcutter’s Story, was published in 2014, a simple tale with a strong message which combines his love for gardening and his desire to help fight cancer.
Legion’s AGM The Kingswood & Hanham branch of the Royal British Legion will be holding their AGM on Friday (22nd October) at 2pm in the lounge at the Kingswood Entertainment & Sports Club in Regent Street. To find out more contact 07982 436234.
19
20
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
Wessex Water holds apprenticeship open day Wessex Water is encouraging people interested in its 2022
wessexwater.co.uk/community/events
at Wessex Water. We will also be holding speed interviews,
apprenticeship opportunities to book a space at its
The water and sewerage company will be showcasing the
which could help those taking part to fast track themselves
upcoming open day.
variety of roles on offer in both technical and office-based
through our apprenticeship recruitment process.
The event is on Saturday (23rd October) from 9.30am to 2pm
departments.
“People will also be able to spend time in our advice pod to
at Wessex Water’s operations centre at Claverton Down in
Early careers coordinator Eva Jefferies said: “The open day
speak with experienced staff members, while also watching
Bath.
will enable attendees to meet and speak with our recruiting
some informative seminars and observing our innovative
Anyone planning to attend can select a time slot at
teams which will give them an idea of what it’s like to work
tech.”
Situations Vacant
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021
21
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy 4 9 1 7 5 3 6 8 2
2 3 6 8 4 1 7 5 9
8 7 5 9 6 2 4 1 3
1 6 7 4 3 5 9 2 8
Crossword Solution
2-Hard 5 8 9 2 1 7 3 6 4
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We load and clear any household, garden, garage and shed clearance Free estimates Fully licensed 85% recycled
26 wk - £13.65
Call 0117 9373009
52 wk - £12.60 All prices per week exc VAT
at anytime to book
You don't have to book successive weeks. You can choose fortnightly, monthly or specific insertion dates as long as the total number of insertions booked corresponds to the discount rate. Similar percentage discounts apply equally to larger sized adverts.
+ VAT per insert
6 wk - £16.80 12 wk - £14.70
£21.00 DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
4 wk - £17.85
Cheap and fast
An advert like this costs
Similar percentage discounts apply equally to larger sized adverts.
Call us now on
Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at 2 weeks
Adverts cost £4.20 per
Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at 2 weeks
The more weeks you each insertion
per insert
+ VAT
centimetre (min 5cm) book the cheaper
+ VAT
An advert like this costs
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381
DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
Call us now on
0117 986 0381 23
24
The Week in • Wednesday 20th October 2021