THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset
26th January 2022
Issue 714
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Read by more than 40,000 people each week
‘Crisis’ as opening of new school is delayed again Hundreds of people have signed a petition to
The council explained: “We have been working on plans
“In these circumstances, it is not in the best interests of
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi after it was
for a new secondary school at Lyde Green for children
the young people’s education for us to move forward
announced that the opening of the new Lyde Green
aged 11 to 16. This is being developed in a partnership
with the opening of the new school in September 2022.
Secondary School has been delayed yet again, leaving
between
the
Although we are totally committed to delivering the new
other schools at “crisis point”.
Government’s Department for Education, and the
Lyde Green Secondary School, to meet local demand for
The announcement by South Gloucestershire Council
Olympus Academy Trust.
school places, we do not want students to be educated in
came last Tuesday and letters were delivered the
“The plan was to build the new school and to welcome
temporary facilities for any longer than necessary.”
following day to almost 200 families affected, giving
new students in September 2023. Lyde Green Secondary
A total of 197 families had indicated the proposed Lyde
them just a few days to decide on alternative preferences
students would have spent their first year from
Green Secondary School as one of their three
before the given deadline of Monday.
September 2022 studying in additional facilities at
preferences. Sixty of those were first preferences.
Winterbourne Academy before moving to the new
The petition, in the form of an open letter on the Organise
permanent site in Lyde Green in September 2023.
platform, is for those affected to show their disagreement
“Unfortunately, current market conditions in the
about what has happened. It is addressed to local MPs
construction industry, which are impacting nationally and
Luke Hall and Chris Skidmore, as well as the Education
include significant issues with the supply and cost of
Secretary. The petition says that local schools are being
building materials and labour, have also caused delays to
placed into a “crisis point”.
delivery of our local new school building programme.
Emersons Green town councillor Matt Palmer told The
These issues have become more pronounced in recent
Week In: “For the children and parents who had chosen
months, in particular because of the COVID pandemic.
Lyde Green Secondary as their first choice, this is
These factors mean that the permanent building will not
devastating and life-changing news, but it will also
be completed by the date we had planned.
impact those for whom the school is their second or third
Advertisement
South
Gloucestershire
Council,
choice. Continued on page 3
Also in this week’s issue
Suicide prevention charity increases patrols in Keynsham . . . page 4
S. Glos Council leaders in planning row . . . page 5
E-scooters a fire hazard? . . . page 7
Warning over catalytic converter thefts . . . page 10
2
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
‘Crisis’ as opening of new school is delayed again Continued from page 1 “It has once again highlighted how Lyde Green is continuing to suffer though poor decisions at Government level; after six years and over 2,500 properties being built, the area is still without adequate primary and secondary school provision. It is quite frankly disgusting. “It is not only Lyde Green that will suffer because of these latest revelations; pressure will now be heaped onto the other secondary schools within Lyde Green’s area of prime responsibility - Downend School, King’s Oak Academy and Winterbourne Academy. “South Gloucestershire Council’s Commissioning of Places Strategy 2018 – 2022 highlights a deficit of school places within this area of prime responsibility.”
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
Parents have reacted to the news with fury on social media. One said: “This is an absolute disgrace … Lyde Green has consistently been treated poorly by South Gloucestershire Council and developers. No doctors, primary school not big enough and no secondary school. Poor road safety (very little effort to rectify issues) and little amenities…” Olympus Academy Trust, which runs Winterbourne Academy, said: “We feel frustrated for the families who have applied for places in Year 7 but the prospect of two years in temporary accommodation would not be ideal.” The trust said it has offered to be part of the solution via a one-year increase in Year 7 numbers at Winterbourne Academy from September.
Previous delays caused by change of builder and sponsor Last summer (Issue 691) we reported that the new £30m secondary and primary schools proposed at Honeysuckle Road in Lyde Green were going to be delayed because both builder and one of the sponsors were being replaced. Willmott Dixon had originally been employed to build the co-located schools, but it was announced that BAM would be doing it. The Week in understands there was a financial disagreement between the council and Willmott Dixon. And the Regional Schools Commissioner, who initially appointed
South Gloucestershire and Stroud Academy Trust (SGS) to run the new 900-place secondary school as part of the Department for Education’s Free Schools programme, dropped the trust and appointed Olympus Academy Trust instead. At the time it was revealed that SGS was not able to continue its involvement, but the reason why was not divulged. Castle School Education Trust (CSET) is still due to run the new primary school as planned. CSET also runs Lyde Green’s first primary school in Willowherb Road and places will be offered there under temporary admission arrangements.
3
Greggs set to open a branch in Longwell Green Bakery chain Greggs is looking to open a branch at the Gallagher Retail Park at Aldermoor Way in Longwell Green. A planning application has been lodged with South Gloucestershire Council to use the paved area outside Unit A1c – the old Carphone Warehouse store – for outdoor seating to complement the opening of a new bakery and food outlet. This application seeks planning permission to display four tables and eight chairs.
Agents say that separate applications will be made in due course for any other building alterations or advertisements that the new tenant requires. The prospect of a Greggs created quite a stir on our Facebook page after we broke the news on Friday. Comments have included: “I’m so excited”; “Omg I hope this happens!”; and “All my dreams have come true.” The planning reference is P22/00329/F.
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The charity Suicide Prevention Bristol say that due to the tragic incident in Keynsham last week they have increased their patrols in the area. “Please remember that we’re here if you need to talk. You can call us on 0800 689 5652. If you notice someone that you believe may be contemplating ending their
life at that moment or have taken steps to, please dial 999. You can then call us if you wish on the number above for additional support.” The call comes following an incident last Tuesday evening when a man died after being hit by a train close to Keynsham Station.
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The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381 www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 Publisher Editor Contributors
Stephen Rodgers admin@theweekin.co.uk Becky Feather 07403 273967 Christine Rogers
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Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
Council leader and Cabinet member in major planning controversy Serious concern has been raised about the
agricultural land; that it is a speculative
the decision out of our hands which will no
handling of a major planning application
proposal and would result in development
doubt cost the council taxpayer a tidy sum.”
in
a
beyond the defined settlement boundary of
She said a “highly experienced and
confidential meeting involving members of
Thornbury; it would cause harm to nearby
professional planning officer” had worked
the ruling Cabinet.
listed buildings including Thornbury Castle;
with the developer on the application for two
After two years of dialogue, controversial
and the lack of a Section 106 legal agreement.
years to achieve the best outcome for the local
plans for almost 600 homes on the edge of
However, as the developers - Barwood
community
Thornbury were recommended for approval
Development Securities Ltd and the North
recommendation to the committee; the
way and to put in question our integrity.
last year. The senior council planning officer
West Thornbury Landowner Consortium -
officer’s report and recommendation for
“We are a quasi-judicial committee and as
dealing with the scheme, which also included
have already lodged an appeal against the
approval
such outside of the political arena. Our
shops, a primary school and an improvement
council’s non-determination as the case has
disappeared”.
integrity must be preserved.”
scheme to Junction 14 of the M5, said it was
dragged on for so long, the final decision now
Cllr Bamford said that the committee was far
The council’s legal adviser told the meeting
policy compliant.
rests with an inspector appointed by the
more experienced to determine the application
that the planning application had been
However, it has emerged - via a Freedom of
Secretary of State. The public inquiry will
than the current Cabinet. She also stressed that
assessed quite thoroughly in line with up-to-
Information request from the developers - that
begin on 29th March.
she was not critical of any council officer and
date policies.
council leader Cllr Toby Savage and fellow
Toby Savage has led the Conservative-
understood that the initial planning officer
Both Cllr Bamford and the chair of the
Cabinet member Cllr Steve Reade met
controlled council since 2018 and represents
assigned to the case had left the council’s
committee Cllr Colin Hunt, a Tory councillor
privately with senior council officers to
the Longwell Green ward. Cllr Reade is
employment in the last week.
for Emersons Green, voted against the
discuss the application and a review of the
Cabinet
Regeneration,
She concluded: “There are questions to be
recommendation.
recommendation was requested. The case
Environment & Strategic Infrastructure, and
answered and I would urge my fellow
Committee member Mike Drew, who is a Lib
officer went off on sick leave shortly
represents Boyd Valley.
committee members that they need to be very
Dem councillor for Yate, said it was an
afterwards and recently left the council.
Committee member June Bamford, who is a
sure that the democratic process relating to
example of how the Cabinet system was
Another planning officer was appointed to
Conservative councillor for Hanham, told
this application has not been compromised by
“inefficient” and should be removed.
give a “fresh analysis”, taking into account the
Thursday’s meeting of her “very serious
any pollical manoeuvring outside of this
However, he said the recommendation for
council having more than a five-year supply
issues” with the planning application and the
committee to encourage us to vote a certain
refusal of the plans was “sensible”.
of
Her
process it has gone through since it was
recommendation - that the scheme be refused
scheduled to be presented to the committee on
– was endorsed by a majority of members of
29th April last year.
the Strategic Sites Delivery Committee on
She said: “It seems to be unprecedented. We
Thursday. The grounds were that the council
were running out of time to determine this
has a healthy land supply and the scheme
application then and the constant delays now
would result in the loss of top quality
mean that the Planning Inspectorate will take
South
housing
Gloucestershire
for
the
after
district.
Member
for
before
had
making
then
Toby Savage
her
“mysteriously
What the Freedom of Information request revealed In a report in preparation for the appeal,
discuss the application. To inform that
agents for the developers say: “The
meeting, which took place on 17 May 2021,
application was due to be considered at the
a Briefing Note summarising the planning
April 2021 planning committee but was
application and the position of officers was
withdrawn
shared with the Executive Members,
at
late
notice
without
explanation.
including the Leader of the Council, on a
“The same happened again in June 2021
confidential basis.”
and in order to try and understand the
The note was drafted by the case officer, the
reasons for this the appellant submitted a
leader of the major sites team, and the head
Freedom of Information (FOI) request to
of strategic planning and housing, before
South Gloucestershire Council (SGC)
being sent to the Executive Members.
requesting details of correspondence
The report adds: “Despite this clear steer
between officers and members relating to
that, in the professional judgement of
the planning application.
officers, the planning balance weighed
“It would appear from the correspondence
in favour (of) granting planning permission,
provided by SGC in response to the FOI
officers were evidently asked by elected
that Executive Members at SGC had
members to revisit elements of the
requested a private meeting with officers to
application prior to planning committee.”
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
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The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
Goats brought in to help manage nature reserve Goats have returned to the Golden Valley
They will be browsing around this very
Local Nature Reserve in Wick to help
valuable habitat which is home to a wide
manage the important wildlife site.
range of plants and wildlife until March,
Four arrived last week and were being
according to how much food is available for
joined by two others this week.
them before the wildflowers emerge.
They have been brought in by South
The goats are owned and managed by Street
Gloucestershire
community
Goat, a community group which started out
spaces improvements team to help control
at Troopers Hill in St George and has since
and trim the grassland at Raven’s Rock.
grown to three dairy sites.
Council’s
Illegal e-scooter seized A patrolling officer from the Staple Hill neighbourhood policing team has seized an illegal e-scooter that was being ridden on the Bristol & Bath Railway Path near Mangotsfield. Private e-scooters are illegal for use on roads and cycle paths. The scooter that was confiscated was capable of travelling up to 30mph, which is especially dangerous to those using the path dedicated for pedestrians and cyclists. The photo above shows the seized illegal scooter on the right compared to one of the legal Voi scooters in the trial scheme being led by the West of England Combined Authority
experienced considerable difficulty in putting out the fires due to the nature of the scooters. “The electric battery is sealed, and it appears that the only way to put out a fire of this nature is to completely submerge the scooter in water. The result is that the scooter is then contaminated, and it is difficult to remove it safely. “A recent e-scooter fire in the central area proved very challenging to resolve due to the contamination, and eventually AFRS had to contact the company the scooter belonged to so it could be taken away for safe disposal.”
… and trial scooters a ‘fire risk’ The e-scooters being used on the West of England Combined Authority trial were a “fire risk” according to the head of Avon Fire Authority. This comes after a fire at Voi’s depot in Brislington on New Year’s Day. Cllr Brenda Massey claimed that Avon Fire and Rescue Service (AFRS) had difficulty extinguishing the blaze because of the way the lithium batteries are sealed on the scooters. In a written statement to the council last week she said: “Following the increased use of escooters, there have been a number of cases of e-scooters catching fire, and AFRS has
The warehouse fire at Brislington
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
7
LETTERS Council is ignoring public opinion
Why not route the 45 bus to Keynsham?
Shuttle service suggestion for 37 bus
Dear Editor
Dear Editor
Dear Editor
On February 22nd South Gloucestershire
I heard about the changes to the 45 bus route
In the bus service changes on 30th January, the
Council (SGC) will remove an active travel
before I read the article in The Week In and my
37 Bristol to Bath via Hanham is being
scheme on Signal Road/Charnell Road in
first thought had been: What about the bridge
withdrawn completely due to very low
Staple Hill that has been in place for 18
that the 42 service was not allowed to pass
passenger numbers.
months, despite high local public support for it
under?
I believe the reason for the very low usage of
to be made permanent.
I also agree with the view that the Cherry
the route is down to the fact that it only runs
Residents of Signal Road in particular are
Garden facilities do not constitute an
twice a day in each direction rather than having
interchange. Previously I have written letters to
a decent timetable. Pre-COVID the service was
you, First Bus and MP Chris Skidmore
operated by single-deck buses and was well
100% in favour of making the scheme permanent. Government guidance states that
Signal Road
schemes such as these should be made
advocating the need for a more regular service
used.
permanent unless there is quantitative evidence
on a warm summer day attracted just 27
from Hanham, Longwell Green and Barrs
So rather than withdrawing the 37 completely,
showing they don’t work. SGC have stated that
people. SGC and local councillor Ian Boulton
Court to Keynsham to serve both its shops
could it be made to run as a shuttle service
no quantitative evidence has been collected.
however continue to maintain that the wider
(which are still popular despite the current
between Hanham and Bath every one or two
In
community are against the scheme.
High Street shambles) and our nearest railway
hours rather than doing the full route into
recommended that the scheme be made
Three local residents along with local
station.
Bristol?
permanent. In addition to this, Lucy Rees,
councillor Katie Cooper submitted our petition
It would make more sense for the 45 bus to go
There's plenty of buses from Hanham to Bristol
senior environmental policy and climate
to the full SGC meeting on 15th December
to Keynsham where connections to Bath could
City Centre but none from Hanham to Bath.
change officer for SGC believes the scheme
2021 and presented our case for why the
be made at the same stop by St John's Church.
Adam
should be made permanent and is quoted in the
scheme should be made permanent. A legal
I was also amazed that the Longwell Green
decision report as saying: “These types of
challenge objecting to the removal of the
central stop was to be bypassed by the bus
schemes have the potential to make a key
scheme has also been made by an as yet
going via Watsons Road. I realise that the acute
contribution to the delivery of the Climate
unknown person.
turn off the A431 into Shellards Road is
Dog walkers are ruining our lives
Emergency declaration.”
On 22nd December the date for removal of the
difficult for large vehicles, but not impossible.
Dear Editor
The scheme was put in place to protect cyclists
scheme was delayed whilst SGC took stock of
David Tiley
I write regarding the mention of Bridge Road
and pedestrians entering and exiting the Bristol
the situation saying: “We will use the additional
Longwell Green
in an advertised Shortwood Golf Club walk for
and Bath Railway Path at the entrance on
time to further seek further views of the lead
Signal Road. It has made four roads in the area
and local ward members before deciding to
safe routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
make the closure permanent or to remove it.”
Residents have witnessed that the number of
July
2021
SGC
transport
services
dog owners. The residents are all totally fed up with all the
Now in January, no official announcement has
Local transport ‘nothing to be proud about’
pedestrians and cyclists using the roads has
been made but SGC have in emails told
Dear Editor
for residents only. In fact there is a road sign at
increased dramatically. Children using the area
residents that the scheme will be removed on
What benefit does the West of England
the bottom saying it is a private road and yet
to get to and from two local schools on foot and
22nd February. The first way most residents
Mayor, or anyone else, think a new logo will
by bike have also increased considerably.
heard of this was an objector leaving a post on
do? (The Week In, Issue 713). What is there to
A petition calling for the scheme to be made
councillor Ian Boulton’s Staple Hill and
be proud about with our local transport
permanent collected nearly 300 signatures, the
Mangotsfield Facebook page.
services?
majority of whom were Railway Path users
Local residents who support the scheme simply
I for one, with the cancelled bus services in
who don’t live on the roads directly affected
cannot understand why the council are going
mind, will not waste my time with any
but do live in the local area. A meeting of
against something that provides such benefits
involvement. Probably selfishly, I would rather
supporters on the street on a wet, cold, rainy
to so many, has a high level of public support
the cost of it to be transferred to the actual
day for a local newspaper photo was attended
and ticks many boxes in terms of public health
running of the services. That would be a
by 71 people. In contrast, objectors to the
and environmental considerations.
benefit.
scheme collected just over 130 signatures in
Bee McNamara
Roger Tilley
their petition and a similar meeting on the street
Signal Road resident
Oldland Common
8
dog walkers’ cars now parking in Bridge Road, Shortwood. Bridge Road is a private road and
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
LETTERS website has totally ruined the lives of the majority of the residents and it needs to stop. When dog walkers have been spoken to regarding it being a private road, the only thing you get back is abuse from the dog walker. Words fail me! I would be grateful, therefore, if dog walkers would not park in Bridge Road, Shortwood in future. There are plenty of other places for you to walk your dogs and other places have proper dog walkers park their cars in front of it!
parking areas. There are no poo bag bins in
Ambulances, fire engines, refuse collection
Bridge Road because it is a private road and not
lorries all have problems coming down the road
a dog walking area.
because of all the dog walkers’ cars. Also the
I am disgusted, also, at the amount of poo bags
number of poo bags left by the majority of dog
just left all over the place with no thought as to
walkers is completely overwhelming. They are
wildlife or the area as a whole. The amount of
being left hung on trees, bushes and underfoot
cars parked in the road is also ruining the
and totally ruining the countryside which I am
surface of the road leaving large potholes and
sure was not the intention of the person
it could possibly lead to subsidence of the road
advertising the walk on their website.
as a whole.
Mention of Bridge Road on the dog walking
Jackie Butcher
Security alert after burglary A home on Brook Road, Mangotsfield, was burgled between 10pm on Sunday 16th January and 7.30am the following day. The offenders burnt a small hole in the back door of the property which allowed them to unlock it as the key had been left in the lock. Once inside they stole a dark green electric mountain bike that was a Whyte E-160-RS model. Local police remind residents of the
importance of closing and locking all unattended doors and windows. Keys should be removed from locks and put in a safe place, out of reach of any openings, but ensure all residents know where the keys are kept in case of emergency. If you have any information about this incident, call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
Pic credit: Diane Paddon
Downend church youth group plants trees on Songs of Praise The youth group at Christ Church in Downend were featured on BBC One’s Songs of Praise planting trees for the Queen’s Green Canopy, an initiative created to mark this year’s Platinum Jubilee. “It was a fun day and a privilege to be a part of the Queen’s Green Canopy,” said Diane Paddon, head of youth ministry at Christ Church. The Songs of Praise crew filmed a group of 20 volunteers from the youth group as they planted two copses in a local field. They are a mixture of oak, crab apple, hawthorn and blackthorn trees. Diane said: “For several years, once a month, the youth group at Christ Church Downend have taken part in Serving Sunday, where we put our faith in action.
Sudoku 1-Easy
Over the years we have built strong relationships with the community, the parish council, members of local Friends groups, staff of local schools and local residents as we have been that visible presence, making a difference, serving the community. “Serving Sundays have included planting bulbs in green spaces and grass verges, litter picking, planting trees, laying a woodchip path in a local park, and baking cakes for residents of a local care home amongst other things. “We have also led Summer Super Serving Sundays, encouraging the whole church to get involved with painting the boundary fence of a local infants school, and cleaning the railings of a local park.”
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 30th January
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 26th January 2022
9
Warning issued following rise in catalytic converter thefts Police are asking the public to remain vigilant following a recent increase in catalytic converter thefts from vehicles. So far in 2022, 14 catalytic converter thefts have been reported from across the Avon & Somerset force area, including in Keynsham, Brislington, Fishponds, Yate, Filton, Bath and Southmead. In a number of cases, vehicles have been targeted while parked in public car parks. While any type of vehicle can be affected, hybrid cars - such as older Toyota Prius and Honda Jazz models are particularly likely to be targeted for
their catalytic converters. Thefts can occur at any time of day or night. Catalytic converters contain precious metals such as rhodium, platinum and palladium. The sharp rise in the value of these metals over recent years has driven up the rate of catalytic converter theft. They can take less than a minute for a thief to cut and remove. The police say: “We’re urging motorists to help protect their vehicles from becoming an easy target. “Avoid parking half on the pavement, half on the road, as this may provide thieves with easier access to the underside of your vehicle.
Crossword
“Park your vehicle in a locked garage whenever possible. Try to park in busy, well-lit areas, or areas covered by CCTV. Ask your garage to tell you your catalytic converter's serial number and make a note of it. “Consider purchasing forensic liquid and using it to mark your catalytic converter. Place a protective covering over your catalytic converter.” Many catalytic converters are also being sold as replacements and police are keen to hear from vehicle dismantlers and advertisers should they be approached by sellers who don’t have the requisite documents to show ownership.
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Branch of mathematics (8)
2. Female relative (4)
6. Absent (4)
4. Cavalryman (6)
8. Is able to (3)
5. Wound mark (4)
9. Badge (8)
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10. Shine intensely (4)
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12. Later on (5)
11. Era (5)
14. Panache (5)
12. Boring tool (5)
17. In addition (4)
13. Souvenir (5)
18. Trust (8)
14. Healthy (3)
20. Climbing plant (8)
15. Irritate (5)
24. A few (4)
16. Regenerate (5)
25. Wading bird (5)
19. Forbid (3)
26. Wary (5)
21. Papal emissary (6)
3. Bosses (6)
Grant funding to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee Local community groups can celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee later this year with the help of grants. Grants of up to £10,000 per project will support community and voluntary organisations in England to develop creative and cultural activities around the Jubilee weekend from 2nd to 5th June. The Quartet Community Foundation is distributing the money locally as part of a nationwide network of funders distributing a £5m Arts Council Let’s Create Jubilee Fund. Groups are encouraged to partner with established artists, creatives and cultural organisations to develop their activities, ensuring that the Jubilee celebrations give people the chance to experience the best of the country’s culture while also celebrating an important milestone in national history. Suzanne Rolt, chief executive at Quartet Community Foundation, said: “Our region is blessed with a rich and diverse range of creative talent. The Jubilee weekend is the perfect moment for us to take the arts and culture into the heart of our communities and to put them centre stage, where they can be shared by all. “Whether it’s through music, theatre, dance, literature or a host of other creative activities, this funding is designed to support local communities to connect and celebrate in their own distinctive and uplifting ways. It’s about making unforgettable memories and maybe even laying the foundations for ongoing collaborations.” For more details visit: www.quartetcf.org.uk The deadline for applications is 28th February.
Virtual community meeting The next virtual meeting of the Hanham and Longwell Green Community Engagement Forum (CEF) meeting is tomorrow (Thursday) from 7pm to 8.30pm. Organised by South Gloucestershire Council, CEFs are a chance for residents to raise any concerns and find out what is happening in their community. Local councillors, along with representatives from other organisations including the police and Avon Fire & Rescue, attend CEF meetings. Tomorrow’s meeting will also include a presentation about positive mental health. To get involved, email communityengagement@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 868113.
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27. Deeds (4)
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28. Flowerless plant (4)
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
Omicron has not gone away The relaxation of COVID Plan B restrictions does not mean the Omicron variant has gone away and NHS England is still urging people to have their third or booster vaccination. Although the vaccination programme in the South West has now delivered 12 million jabs, including more than three million boosters, health chiefs estimate there are another 500,000 people who are four or more weeks late for their booster jab. Dr Michael Marsh, NHS England and NHS Improvement South West Medical Director, said: “There are more walk-in sites in the South West this week than ever before with more than 200 locations open as the NHS COVID Vaccination Programme makes it as easy and convenient as possible for people to get protected. “I’d urge anyone yet to come forward for their booster, or their first or second dose, to check where their nearest site is online and get protected now.” UK Health Security Agency data demonstrates the great protection two doses offer; whilst not enough to completely stop the surge of Omicron, adding an additional third dose prevents around 75% of people from getting any COVID symptoms. Meanwhile, Metro Mayor Dan Norris is urging people to continue wearing a face mask. Reacting to last week’s announcement of the lifting of restrictions from today (Wednesday), he said: "I'm grateful to people across the West of England, who have continued to abide by COVID regulations and to help keep each other safe. "This announcement feels like a hasty decision; it's meant to be about public safety, not the safety of the Prime Minister. Nonetheless I'm encouraging people to continue to wear face masks on public transport. “We've done the hard miles, we must not lose progress on yards at the end.”
Pause in donations of food Keynsham Foodbank organisers say that thanks to the generosity of the community, their warehouse is very full and they are taking the unusual step of asking for a pause in donations of food. “If you are considering giving to us, we kindly ask that you please consider donating money instead, thank you, it is our preference at this time. We always have bills to pay.”
If you wish to set up a standing order directly with your bank, or make a one-off transfer, the details are 60-12-11, 26725592, ‘Keynsham Foodbank’. Gift Aid makes a big difference – visit https://keynsham.foodbank.org.uk/gift-aid-form/ If you need help from the foodbank, details of how to receive an eVoucher from one of the many referral agencies are at https://keynsham.foodbank.org.uk/get-help/how-to-get-help/
Car window smashed Someone smashed a car’s passenger side window while it was parked on Eastleigh Road in Staple Hill between 10pm on Tuesday 18th January and 9.20am the following day. If you have any information call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Kitchen fire ‘accidental’ Crews from Hicks Gate, Kingswood and Temple fire stations were called to tackle a house blaze at Bath Road in Keynsham last Wednesday lunchtime. The fire was in the kitchen. Firefighters accounted for everyone in the house and extinguished the fire using a high pressure hose reel. They wore breathing apparatus for safety and a fan was used to clear smoke. One man was treated for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is thought to be accidental.
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
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More coveted Radio 1 slots for DJ Seb Keynsham DJ Seb Bailey will be back on the national airwaves again later this year. He was a guest presenter on Radio 1’s Breakfast Show on New Year’s Day when the station traditionally hands over to local presenters from across the country to present their shows. Now Seb has just learnt that he has been invited back in April. As well as appearing on local station Somer Valley FM, Seb was also one of the pioneers of the weekly Keynsham Hour show. That move led to the launch of KTCRfm last year and he played a large part in the initial set-up. Commenting on Facebook Seb said: "Lost for words tonight. I’m still riding on the wave of fun I had covering on BBC Radio 1 over the New Year but in what is an insane turn of events, I’ve been invited back! “Throughout April you’ll hear me on Friday Early Breakfast. I’m incredibly grateful for this experience so a massive thank you to Aled and the Radio 1 commissioning team for trusting me with their station again. What an opportunity!"
Another radio drama for KTCRfm KTCRfm continues to bring innovative radio drama to our local region with another new series, The Waves, which starts this week. This time, leading theatre company Tamasha has joined forces with drama production company Holy Mountain to create five 25-minute dramas which portray an image of modern Britain and how it has been shaped by its colonial past. They tell local stories from Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester, Leamington Spa and Edinburgh, each one by a writer whose family heritage was affected by British colonialism, and who lives in the place their story is set. The Bristol story, which airs next week, is Grosvenor Road, written by Corinne Walker. The story uses split time periods to look at the fate of a former slum building which was a focus of Caribbean anti-racist resistance in the 1970s and ’80s. Years later, it has been regenerated into expensive flats attractive to a white London couple, who are being shown around by a young, black estate agent. KTCRfm is one of 20 community radio stations across the country which is broadcasting The Waves, a series made with the support of the Government backed Audio Content Fund. As with previous radio dramas Greenborne and Night of the
Living Flatpacks, The Waves is broadcast on 105.8fm as part of KTCR’s Spoken Word programme. You can listen to it each week starting on Monday at 4pm, Wednesday at 2pm and Sunday at 3pm. Alternatively you can ‘listen again’ using the station’s website www.ktcrfm.com
‘I was told I would never be off medication and now I am. Willow Chiropractic has completely changed my life.’ One award-winning proven process is transforming the lives of thousands of people around Bristol, including Jill. Willow Chiropractic have helped thousands of people across Bristol to get out of pain and stay out of pain. Jill, who visited Willow Chiropractic, shared her story. “I had an accident at work where I was cleaning out storage containers and moving some big swing baskets between containers. The momentum of rolling the basket swings damaged the nerve junction between my spine and left shoulder.
my family’s lives in a big way. I was taking 36 strong tablets a day. I have pretty much lost my memory of the years I was on them because they were so strong. I was still getting some pain when I was on the medication. Every few months, the doctor would try to reduce the medication to see if the pain was gone, but it would come back quickly so they would have to increase the medication again.
My friend’s dad mentioned that they had been to Willow I couldn’t do anything. I could and that I should give it a go. barely breathe; it felt like there I went for a consultation back was a net around my left lung in 2013, and took my results pulling tighter with every to my doctor at the same time breath. I was off work for a that my scans came back. The long time, I couldn’t drive, and doctor said that Willow had I couldn’t ride or attend to my told me what was shown in the horse. It affected both mine and scan. At that point I thought 12
I would give chiropractic a go. I’d been told that it was possible to recover, but it was going to be extremely dif昀cult. My doctor didn’t think there would ever be a point where I would never be on any medication for the pain. I gradually made improvements, and now I am not on any medication. I stopped taking medication about three years ago. It was a long and dif昀cult process. It took a long time for me to get off the medication as I was on eight different types a day. I had to come off them one by one. Now that the pain has settled down, I can pretty much do whatever I want. I’m not affected at all by the injury anymore.
every single tablet because she didn’t think it would ever happen. I now feel how I did before I had my accident. I feel much happier. I can do more gardening without worrying about my back, I’m more comfortable working at a desk, and I haven’t had any problems with my neck or headaches.
My doctor was completely surprised when I came off
It might have been a long road but it has been well worth it.
If I could go back in time, I would do the exact same again. I’m living a normal life.” The Willow Chiropractic Emersons Green clinic is located at Graham’s House, St Lukes Cl, Emersons Green, Bristol, BS16 7AL. 0117 369 7075 hello@willowlife.co.uk www.willowlife.co.uk
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
Keynsham High Street update Temporary traffic lights have been installed at the
upgrade the pelican crossing and complete paving works in
junction of Bath Hill and Temple Street in Keynsham
this area as part of the Keynsham High Street public realm
following damage to the pedestrian crossing.
improvement scheme.
A traffic collision last Monday (17th January) damaged the
These works were scheduled to begin this week for three
feeder pillar containing the crossing’s electrics.
weeks so the traffic lights will now stay in place along with
Bath & North East Somerset Council has installed a
a lane closure until the upgrade is completed.
temporary pedestrian crossing ahead of planned works to
Final finishing and road surfacing works on the High Street
Situations Vacant
will follow with the project expected to be completed in early March.
Generation Care – Is it time for a change? Careers in care are diverse and rewarding With the recent challenges in the care sector behind us, now is the time to start building the next generation of care workers – our Generation Care. Working at St Monica Trust is about so much more than care. It’s having the opportunity to build your career and develop your skills, whilst delivering the best experience of aging to our wonderful residents. We’ll provide award-winning training and all the mentoring you’ll need to build a fulfilling and successful career.
With dignity at the heart of all we do, you’ll be improving the lives of our residents by helping with day-to-day practical things like bathing, dressing, meal times and activities. In fact, you’ll be such an important part of their lives you’ll get to know them, their families and friends. And who knows what direction this could take you, nursing, management or towards head office support functions?
Become Generation Care and start your amazing journey For more information about the fantastic opportunities in care please email recruitment@stmonicatrust.org.uk or call 0117 949 4091. www.stmonicatrust.org.uk/jobs Registered charity no: 202151
The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022
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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
3 2 4 6 8 9 5 7 1
9 5 8 1 7 4 2 3 6
6 4 3 5 2 8 1 9 7
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Service Directory Aerials
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Service Directory Home Maintenance
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Book a series of adverts and save even more Our Directory is the perfect place to find a local tradesperson.
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OLDLAND Village Club Bar & Social Club
Painting & Decorating
Private function room with bar and stage. Kitchen available. Up to 120 guests for parties, receptions, children's parties, presentations or wakes. Parking. Ring Pam on
0117 9077432
Telephone Engineers
for further details www.oldlandvillageclub.co.uk
Rubbish Clearance Cheap and fast
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We load and clear any household, garden, garage and shed clearance Free estimates Fully licensed 85% recycled
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The Week in • Wednesday 26th January 2022