THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 799
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20th September 2023
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Life-saving bleed control kits being rolled out Avon & Somerset Police are working with the NHS and
The distinctive red appliances
defibrillator supplier HeartSafe to install 144 ‘bleed kits’
are being installed on the side of
as part of a new initiative to prevent deaths from knife
existing HeartSafe defibrillators
crime – with the first being unveiled outside Keynsham
and will be instantly accessible
Library.
in an emergency. Whilst the initiative is part of the force’s work around serious violence and knife crime, the bleed control kits are also there to be used after a road traffic collision, fall, or other traumatic injury. They include trauma dressings and tourniquets to help manage
The bleed kit next to the defibrillator outside the library at Keynsham Civic Centre
Chief Inspector Mike Vass, centre, with local officers at the launch of the bleed kit in Keynsham
bleeds as well as gloves, scissors, and an instruction guide on
person is suffering from.
what to use depending on where and what type of injury the
People should always call 999 and ask for the ambulance service in a life-threatening emergency, but these kits are designed to be easy to use immediately after a medical emergency to help the injured person until an ambulance or first responder arrives. This week knife crime lead Chief Inspector Mike Vass said: “We know we cannot police our way out of serious violence, it has to be a partnership approach, not just between us and our partners in health and social care, but also with members of our communities who can play a key part in helping us. “We employ a number of different tactics to deal with knife crime and prevent it at the source but in the unfortunate event that a person is seriously injured, we hope that these kits will go some way to preventing tragic loss of life.” The project was initiated by Clive Setter from HeartSafe following their successful work in installing public defibrillators across the UK. He said: “I am pleased to announce another public safety initiative for HeartSafe, now partnering with Avon & Somerset Police assisting people suffering major blood loss wounds to receive immediate help from members of the community around them. “The bleed kits will provide some initial emergency aid to those in need before an ambulance arrives at the incident and will help to avoid a potentially tragic outcome.”
Continued on page 3
Also in this week’s issue
Waste & recycling workers in B&NES take industrial action . . . page 3
Flasher seen near Kingswood play park . . . page 4
Dismay as community bid fails to secure Crews Hole woodland . . . page 5
Controversial phone mast allowed in Longwell Green . . . page 11
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
Waste and recycling workers in B&NES take industrial action Residents in Bath & North East Somerset
offer. This latest industrial action in B&NES
usual. For recycling and rubbish collections
Council were this week facing disruption
is in relation to the local government national
if we have been unable to collect we will not
to waste, recycling and garden waste
pay award. A pay offer of £1,925 was
be able to return later in the week. Please
collections due to industrial action by
rejected by Unite members recently and has
take your bins/boxes back in and present
members of the Unite union.
led to industrial action being organised at 23
them again on your next scheduled
Over the summer there were several weeks
local authorities.
collection, we will collect additional
of strikes by bin workers in neighbouring
B&NES Council says there may also be
waste/recycling if placed alongside.
South Gloucestershire until the council’s
disruption at the recycling centres in Midland
“Please check our waste disruption page for
contractor Suez and Unite members finally
Road, Bath and at Midsomer Norton.
any updates, including garden waste
stuck a pay deal. A threatened strike by
“We are working hard to minimise any
collection arrangements and opening hours
Bristol Waste workers was averted after
disruption
for our recycling centres. We apologise for
refuse workers accepted an improved pay
recycling/garden waste or refuse waste out as
so
please
put
your
Life-saving bleed control kits being rolled out
any inconvenience.”
Keys and car stolen A home in Lulworth Road, Keynsham, was burgled on Wednesday 6th September at around 12.20am.The offender gained entry without force via a ground-floor window. Once inside a set of car keys were taken and the resident’s vehicle subsequently stolen. It was later recovered
Continued from page 1
safely discard of their weapons.
in Whitchurch.
Three other bleed kits have been installed
Work with local Violence Reduction
Anyone who has any information or CCTV images is asked to contact the police on 101
- in St Pauls and Easton in Bristol – and in
Partnerships is also engaging young people
quoting reference number 5223215833 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Nailsea. A second one is coming soon to
and children in early intervention and
Keynsham – at Manor Road playing fields
diversion projects to prevent knife carrying,
– as well as to the Maes Knoll pub in
as well as other types of crime and harm.
Whitchurch Village and Pucklechurch
Workshops have been rolled out across
Community Centre.
secondary schools in Bristol, South
The installations complement work carried
Gloucestershire, and North Somerset to
out by the police to tackle knife crime, with
encourage young people to report if they
more
being
know someone is carrying a knife and how
surrendered into knife surrender bins
to administer emergency first aid in the
installed to encourage young people to
event of a stabbing.
than
4,000
weapons
Grieving family of stab victim join crusade Thirty blood control kits funded by Mikey’s World, the initiative set up in memory of 16year-old Mikey Roynon from Kingswood who died after being stabbed at a party in June, have been ordered and will go out to local pubs, clubs and community centres with training on how to use them. They have been obtained from the Daniel Baird Foundation set up in memory of the 26year-old who was fatally stabbed in 2017 after
Mikey Roynon
a night out with friends in Birmingham. His mother Lynne received an MBE last year for her work promoting bleed control kits. Mikey’s World has been created by his mum Hayley Ryall, supported by family and friends. The project encourages youngsters to get off the streets and into boxing or music studios as well as raising awareness of methods and kits to help save lives from knife injuries.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
3
Indecent exposure near play park Police have appealed for witnesses after a man was seen indecently exposing himself near a children's play park in Kingswood. It happened on Wednesday 23rd August between 5.30pm and 5.45pm in bushes in Pettigrove Road. He is described as white, around 6ft, slim and with brown
Public meetings on A4 proposals A public meeting organised by local residents will be held in Saltford Hall at 7pm on Saturday (23rd September) to discuss plans for the A4 Bristol to Bath corridor, which include bus lanes. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is currently consulting on new proposals which aim to give better options to travel sustainably – by bus, bike or walking – but has warned there will be “downsides” too.
Meanwhile WECA has been hosting a series of meetings for people living along the route. One was taking place today (Wednesday) at Hungerford Community Centre in Brislington from 2pm to 7pm and there is also one on Friday (22nd September) at Keynsham Library (noon to 5pm). Take part in the consultation at www.haveyoursaywest.co.uk See Letters, pages 8 & 9
hair. He was wearing a black puffed jacket with the hood up. He also wore skinny jeans and black trainers. Investigating officer PC Matthew Fairless said: “We understand this is a concerning incident. We are pursuing lines of enquiries and are appealing for the public’s help with further information.” If you have any information call 101 and quote reference 5223204845.
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
Rotarians plan fundraising quiz A newly formed voluntary group of Rotarians is collaborating with the staff of The Hive Avon in Kingswood to raise muchneeded funds for its centre in Two Mile Hill Road. The charity provides services and opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and difficulties to meet others, socialise and learn life skills. It receives very little public funding. The Bristol East Rotary Community Group is
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.
organising a fun quiz at Pomphrey Hill Sports Centre on 20th October at 7pm. Tickets are £4 each and tables of six people are planned. To get your tickets and for more information email Bristoleastrotarygroup@gmail.com
Stolen moped abandoned Four males were seen walking up and down Vandyck Avenue in Keynsham looking into vehicles at 12.10am on Friday 8th September. They ran off in different directions when disturbed and a blue moped was found abandoned near the play area. It is thought to have been stolen as there was damage to the ignition. If you have any information, especially CCTV images, call 101 the police on 101, quoting crime reference number 5223217835. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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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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0117 986 0381 sales.theweekin@gmail.com @theweekineditor the_week_in_news
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
Dismay as community campaign to save woodland is unsuccessful A crowdfunding campaign to buy five acres of mature woodland in Crews Hole that was up for auction failed after the site went for almost five times the guide price. Environment charity Protect Earth had hoped to save Blackswarth Road Wood, which had an auction guide price of £50,000, by buying and restoring it “for the long-term benefit of the community, wildlife and the climate”.
Asbestos spill Traffic along the A4174 Ring Road near Hicks Gate was held up on Friday morning after asbestos sheeting spilt over the carriageway. Police closed one lane until it was cleared up.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
However, a ‘Mrs A’ outbid them at Wednesday’s auction, paying £245,000 for the site which is part of a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. After the auction lead campaigner Phil Sturgeon said: “The community pledged an incredible £87,000 plus an estimated £11,000 in Gift Aid. In addition, we had funds available including emergency funds and a loan should we need it, but it wasn’t enough. A final single competing bidder outbid us to £245,000, which is an astonishing amount of money for five acres of woodland that cannot be developed. “We do not know who the buyer is or what their intentions are, but by shining a light on this place, we have made it very difficult for anyone to damage or try to develop this woodland. It’s our hope that they will care for and protect this habitat for the benefit of nature and the community and we will hold them to account at every turn if they fail to.” He said that the Crowdfunder platform have recommended
The woodland sold at auction for £245,000
not refunding the money immediately in case the winning bidder fails to complete: “Every single generous person who has pledged to protect this woodland will have their donation returned as soon as we have confirmed that the purchase is complete, but there is still a slim chance that the sale could defer to our bid.” Bristol Tree Forum is understood to be campaigning to get the site’s status upgraded to a Local Green Space. This designation is a way to provide special protection against development for green areas of particular importance to local communities.
5
Taylor Wimpey reveals detailed plans for 70 homes on green fields Taylor Wimpey has lodged a detailed planning application with Bath & North East Somerset Council for 70 homes – 30% of them ‘affordable’ - on eight acres of land to the east of Minsmere Road in Keynsham. Last year the developer secured outline planning permission for the site, with vehicular and pedestrian access on to
Minsmere Road. The latest application looks at the proposed type of houses, the layout and landscaping. When outline permission was secured, Taylor Wimpey promised an overall £2.3m package of contributions to offset the impacts of the new estate, with money for sustainable transport measures (including a regular bus service link to the The fields east of Minsmere Road
Lower speed limit proposed for lanes Following concerns raised earlier in the year about the speed
B&NES Council, as highways authority, has been asked by
of traffic using the lanes between Saltford and Keynsham,
both Saltford Parish Council and Keynsham Town Council to
formal requests to lower the limit from 60mph to 20mph have
reduce the national speed limit on Manor Road and Courtenay
been lodged with Bath & North East Somerset Council.
Road. The lanes cross the boundary between the two areas and are regularly used by schoolchildren walking or cycling to Wellsway School, as well as by many cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians from both Saltford and Keynsham. It is felt that the request fits in with B&NES Council’s interest in improving active travel and that reducing the speed limit and adding traffic calming measures would be an appropriate addition as part of B&NES Council’s plans to make Manor Road Community Woodland a more accessible and enjoyable place to visit.
Manor Road
The use of the lanes is expected to increase due to the planned housing developments at Minsmere Road and Withies Green.
6
town centre which would benefit the Chandag estate), school places and for the neighbouring Manor Road Community Woodland. The funding also includes a better biodiversity net gain although not on site – instead Taylor Wimpey is proposing ecological improvements at Somerdale plain on the other side of Keynsham. There were more than 250 objections to the outline plans for Minsmere Road. However, the principle of the land being developed was conceded nine years ago when it was safeguarded for future development, and council officers felt the application to be consistent with the emerging update to B&NES Local Plan. The planning reference for this reserved matters application is 23/03008/RES. The deadline for comments is 12th October and the council aims to determine the application by midDecember.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
Heavy horsepower harnessed to sustainably sow wildflower meadows Heavy horses are helping to sow new wildflower meadows at Jubilee Park in Cadbury Heath to boost biodiversity and be enjoyed by the local community. Three wildflower meadows are being created with the help of a team of three horses called Flynn, Kipp and Quin. They arrived last week and have been harrowing the soil to make a suitable seed bed as part of the project led by South Gloucestershire Council and funded by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA). They are there this week
The start of the project to sow the wildflower meadows
too and will be sowing the wildflower seed and rolling it afterwards. The seed has been supplied from local meadows including the King’s Highgrove estate in Gloucestershire.
transformed with a range of biodiversity projects, which will create a one-hectare area for pollinating insects to find food and shelter. In addition to the seed, the
Jubilee Park is being created by the council to commemorate the late Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles III. The project to create a new biodiversity park for local people and wildlife in Cadbury Heath has also been supported with £55,000 funding from the council’s Climate and Nature Emergency fund. Funding to create the wildflower meadows comes via a £53,000 grant from WECA as part of its push to make the West of England the bee and pollinator capital of the UK. Once a former pitch and putt site, the park in Cadbury Heath is being
Combined Authority grant will fund 5,000 wildflower plug plants that will be supplied by Grow Wilder, Avon Wildlife Trust’s plant nursery. South Gloucestershire Council’s lead member for Communities and Local Place Cllr Jayne Stansfield and lead member for Climate and Nature Emergency Cllr Alex Doyle were joined by Metro Mayor Dan Norris and local residents to mark the start of the project to sow the wildflower meadows. Cllr Stansfield said: “It is fantastic to see these magnificent horses in action as they prepare the soil at Jubilee Park for beautiful wildflower meadows which will teem with wildlife when established. Heavy horses are being used due to their low environmental impact and as a sustainable alternative to
Controversial 16-metre high phone mast is approved A 16-metre 5G phone mast can be installed on Long Beach Road in Longwell Green, even though South Gloucestershire Council officers don’t consider it to be the best location. Phone giant Three applied for prior approval to erect the mast - with six antenna and three equipment cabinets - on the verge next to Willsbridge Mill car park. Three said the selected site was the most “viable and suitable location”. The council received close to 90 objections and 19 in support of the application. In considering the proposal, council officers said the mast will be taller than nearby street lights but its slender design will not be “unduly incongruous” and being fir green in colour will help to reduce its perceptibility against the backdrop of the mature trees. They said that with the roll-out of increased telecommunications infrastructure, equipment such as masts and equipment are more likely to form part of the environment going forward. Several suggestions were made by local people for alternative locations, including
Horses at work
heavy machinery, which would overly compact the soil. We are facing climate and ecological emergencies so projects like this are vital to provide wildlife havens where our residents can relax and enjoy nature.” Mr Norris said: “I’m proud to be investing in projects supporting our region’s pollinators like this soon-to-be wildflower haven at Jubilee Park - good news for locals, and even better news for its pollinators who do so much for us. It’s projects like these that will really help us make our amazing West of England region the bee and pollinator capital of the whole country.”
Willsbridge Mill car park which is owned by the council. Officers agreed that locating the mast within the car park would be “in some respects better than what is currently proposed as there would be some greater screening”. However, they said that the council is duty bound to consider what has been submitted and cannot dictate that another site must be used if the current site and proposals are acceptable. In reaching their decision they said that whilst the mast will be visible from some nearby homes, it will not result in any unacceptable impacts and it is not considered that the equipment will “interfere” with either the road or pavement.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
7
LETTERS Event reaffirmed my doubts about A4 plans Dear Becky Last Monday I attended the ‘Have your say’ dropin event in Keynsham to find out more about the proposals for the A4. I asked a number of
any
All residents of the Chandag estate should receive
appealing for tolerance of overstretched reception
improvement and will arguably make matters
a rebate of £100 on their council tax whilst the
staff. The numbers used have never allowed
worse if you consider the likelihood that the
residents of Chandag Road should receive £200
return calls.
current traffic build-up between beyond Hicks
for the inconvenience caused by mismanagement.
So how have I found out about the online access
Gate through Brislington will now be potentially
Mike Barrow, Keynsham
facility? Reading a letter in The Week In!
think
these
proposals
will
deliver
extending along the A4 towards Bath. People will not stop using cars until there is a viable,
Robin Champion Editor’s note: Hanham Health has been invited
transport remains primarily in the control of
Increase in traffic volume and speed
private companies, I don’t see that happening any
Dear Editor
time soon. Finally, I would encourage everyone
In the last two or three years there has been a
to find out what’s proposed and have their say.
noticeable increase in both the volume of traffic
Plans would turn A4 into bottleneck
There is no point in complaining after the event.
using Memorial Road in Hanham and the regular
Dear Becky
Brian Withyman
speeding of drivers ignoring the 20mph and
The bypass was surely built for traffic travelling
30mph signs.
between Bristol and Bath, thereby avoiding heavy pollution, noise and congestion for the people of
never seen a police officer checking the speeds
Keynsham, Yes, there are bottlenecks at either end
or time constrained; the answer was that they are
Give us a rebate over roadworks
Regrettably no speed cameras exist and I have with a hand-held camera. Recently there was a
of the dual carriageway but under the new plans,
considering what’s suitable. Whatever the
Dear Editor
major accident in Memorial Road near the school
a bottleneck would be created all the way from
solution is will force existing cars into one lane,
I am not certain as to where the final decision
entrance. A few years ago my wife and I were
Bristol to beyond Saltford.
potentially causing more traffic build-ups.
came from on the re-routing of the traffic during
drenched by a vehicle speeding along the gutter
Money would be better spent on an underpass or
I then asked about access to the bus stops on the
the closure of the Wellsway in Keynsham, but I
after rain whilst waiting at the bus stop by
flyover at Hicks Gate for through traffic.
bypass and how people could get to them.
guess that the average shopper in the High Street
Hanham Common.
In any event, does anyone want to be getting off
Apparently, there is an area in Keynsham Park
could have advised these ‘experts’ that what they
One another occasion a policeman monitoring the
a bus late at night on that stretch of road? I think
where the ground level dips closer to the level of
were proposing was not going to work.
crowds arriving for the Hanham Common fete
not.
the bypass and this is where the bus stops will be
To think that drivers would leave Keynsham,
expressed amusement when I drew attention to
Dave Body
located. So I then asked how people would access
drive through Salford, turn right into Corston and
speeding traffic by the Common and near the busy
this point, to be told on foot from either the High
proceed in the direction of Marksbury, instead of
shops. The zebra crossing by the shops opposite
Street or Station Road via the park. There are no
driving up Chandag Road in Keynsham beggars
Hanham Common does not comply with statutory
plans to provide additional car parking close by.
belief. Yes, the ‘powers that be’ put up a few signs
visibility requirements, making it hazardous for
Bypass bus lane will be a white elephant
Will this encourage people to use this stop and
at the bottom of Chandag Road advising that only
pedestrians crossing at this busy point. The
Dear Editor
how do people get to the High Street or Station
local traffic could turn right and all diverted traffic
20mph signs are in the wrong place - encouraging
I would like to thank Clive Honeychurch for his
Road? If you live some distance away, this can
must go straight on, but sat navs don't take much
drivers to accelerate on approaching the busy
interesting and considered letter (Issue 767, 6th
only be done on a bus (assuming you can easily
notice of that.
shopping area.
September 2023) regarding the ill-conceived
get one), by car (assuming you can find a space
People were then encouraged to report any HGVs
A Hanham resident
concept of the latest idea of road improvement in
to park) or on a bike (if you are fit and brave
using Chandag Road. Who do we report it to and
enough to ride one).
if we did what action would be taken? I have
I then questioned the plans for the A4 through
friends who live in Chandag Road and they are
Saltford where again there are proposals for a bus
woken each morning not by the dawn chorus but
No communication over online consultations
lane. I travel along this route occasionally and
the sound of heavy traffic using the road.
Dear Becky
bypass. It was built in 1964/5 to reduce traffic
there are many areas where the road will not
I live off Manor Road and if I want to journey into
Why haven't I been told of the new Hanham
flow through the village, which had grown into a
accommodate a bus lane. Apparently, this is a
the town centre this can take over 20 minutes or
Health practice online access facility Anima?
small town, particularly through its then busy
known problem but with no reasonable solution.
more. The authorities had plenty of warning of
(Letters, Issue 798).
High Street. The A4, part of which it forms, is one
These tend to be in the same areas where traffic
this work and should have planned ahead to allow
I am a patient at the practice and the surgery has
of the nation’s major trunk routes, having been in
builds up currently. So we now see the prospect
mandatory signage, banning through traffic, to
my mobile phone number and, in the past, has
place for centuries, linking Bristol with Bath etc.,
of buses trying to join sections that are already
have been put in place, backed up by the
used it to ask me to make an appointment (e.g.,
all the way through to London. In the early 1960s
busy with other traffic.
appropriate personnel to ensure compliance.
reviews, flu jabs, Covid vaccinations); to confirm
it was recognised that private car ownership was
I totally agree with the notion that we need to
In the last week the situation has worsened with
and remind about appointments; to ask for
on the rise and personal mobility was essential to
reduce use of cars to reduce pollution but don’t
the additional traffic prompted by the school run.
feedback on appointments; and several letters
the economy. Hence the bypass. Very little has
questions and was disappointed to receive answers of little substance, which reaffirmed my doubts about the viability of what’s being proposed. My first question was why bus lanes are needed on the Keynsham bypass, given that currently the buses travel along it relatively freely most of the
attractive and cheaper alternative. Whilst public
time. The response was that on occasions there is some traffic build-up. So I then enquired as to what type of bus lanes were envisaged, permanent
to respond
B&NES – the West of England Combined Authority’s A4 ‘improvement’. I’ll concentrate on just one aspect of the document they laughingly call a ‘plan’ - the Keynsham
THE WEEK IN Email your letters to the editor admin@theweekin.co.uk
8
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
LETTERS changed. Car ownership continues to rise and
making, at an eye-watering price to the public.
impassioned defence of the BBC (The Week In,
many of them stream online to overseas
personal mobility is even more essential now than
Keynsham bypass has two points of failure, the
6th September).
audiences.
it was then. The British economy continues to rely
roundabouts at either end, the most problematic
Now, this may seem strange coming from
Talking of overseas audiences, the BBC World
heavily on these two factors.
one at the end of the Avon Ring Road (A4174).
someone like me, who was brought up on rebel
Service enhances Britain's democratic values
Here, in Britain generally and certainly in what is
This roundabout was never fully thought through
stations such as Radio Luxembourg, offshore
worldwide. A friend of mine was once walking a
fast becoming the Bristol/Bath urban conurbation,
or designed properly in the first place, particularly
pirates such as Radio Caroline and Laser 558, and
lane in a central Africa and was astonished to hear
we have a major problem with personal mobility
when turning right onto it or from it towards
the dozens of land-based pirates that have graced
British voices floating in from the adjacent field.
caused in the main by our dreadfully inefficient
Bristol. The faults can still be engineered out, at
Bristol's airwaves over the decades (and opened
Peering in, he found the farmer resting, with his
and horrendously costly public transport. Within
a far lower cost than the latest proposed nonsense.
out those airwaves to today's legal community
small shortwave receiver tuned to the BBC
Europe they boast an efficient, reliable and
The current plan does beg the question – what
broadcasters). But I too treasure the services
transmitters at Ascension Island.
extremely inexpensive, fully integrated public
level of stupidity is required to think it’s a good
provided by the BBC.
The farmer knew that their own media was
transport system. From Athens to Oslo and
idea to remove one of only two already congested
Don't get me wrong, the BBC as a powerful
compromised by government control, and he
Budapest to Valencia, along with more than 250
lanes to make it a dedicated bus lane for a service
institution always needs a healthy dose of
valued the more rigorous editorial independence
other cites, they have systems supported by trams.
which, at its peak, only runs four times an hour?
criticism to help it reflect the changing needs of
of the BBC.
Edinburgh has a tram system, as do Manchester,
The fact it appears this particular service very
society. It is, in my book, too parochial, and too
Finally, I remember an interview given by the
Birmingham, Newcastle, Sheffield, Nottingham
rarely runs full, and outside of peak hours
close to the establishment. Remember, Lord
actor Sylvester McCoy, who is probably best
and Blackpool. Even London can now boast a
generally less than one third full, should be
Reith himself used to crow that the Beeb had
remembered as the seventh incarnation of Doctor
limited one. We do not.
factored in. It won’t be.
helped the Government defeat the General Strike
Who (funnily enough, a BBC institution that
I’m in my late 60s and even as a boy I heard talk
We will suffer more congestion, more pollution,
of 1926. Its reputation as somewhat leftist is only
marks its 60th anniversary this autumn). Mr
of one – and I strongly suspect my great-
more illness and longer traffic delays. Keynsham
recent - put about by very right-wing media
McCoy noted that the BBC broadcasts serious
grandchildren will hear talk of it. That is because,
will become a rat run as frustrated drivers seek an
outlets such as the Daily Mail and Daily
dramas every day on radio and TV, sponsors
unlike those in Europe, who get on and do, we
alternative route.
Telegraph, and indeed, measured against their
many classical music orchestras, choirs and
just get on and talk, compromise, then plan
Colin Brook
highly conservative editorial positions, it IS
consultation. We will be asked our opinions. We
Why I treasure the services of the BBC
will give them. Then the minions will go ahead
Dear Editor
(National Public Radio) and a network of college-
with the original plan just as they were always
As a radio enthusiast, I was most interested to
run, community operated and independent
composers, gives airtime to new artists of a wide variety of genres, transmits news around the clock and also offers local and regional programming that might otherwise not be catered for (for example, the 19 hours a day of BBC Radio Cymru in the Welsh language, and daily transmissions in Scottish Gaelic). I hate paying my TV licence as much as the next person, but to have information and entertainment and that commitment to British arts and culture in all its forms, and free from commercials, is important. The BBC is somewhat like the NHS - full of contradictions and errors that need work on. But by Jove, I am glad that it exists. Terry Starr Radio enthusiast
going to. Yet another white elephant in the
read your correspondent Philip Gannaway's
stations. If you're interested, you will find that
South Bristol
something which morphs out of all recognition.
probably more liberal.
Cities around the world have proven mass
Tread carefully
However, a centrist public service broadcaster is
commuter movement can be carried out
Dear Editor
an essential part of the fourth estate - an important
effectively and efficiently at minimal cost to the
Re the continuing spate of slips and falls by
balance to press oligarchs and a democratic
end user. In these cities and countries, the general
pedestrians on Keynsham High Street, I would
counterweight to an internet that is awash with
public thrive on their public transport system –
agree that the cycle lane has become something
sleaze, hatred and intolerance.
and so do their cities, all growing their local
of an ogre and cause célèbre (making us see red?).
Across Europe, public broadcasters are treasured
economies in the full realisation those economies require the practical mass movement of labour. So why is it we have to continually suffer these sticking plaster ideas from our unimaginative, publicly paid petty officials? We now have to tolerate yet another of their absurd plans, ostensibly put before us for
But surely it is also up to us as pedestrians to be sufficiently aware and vigilant? No one seems to
by millions of people. Radio France, Radio Telefis Eireann in Ireland, Danmarks Radio from Copenhagen, ORF in Vienna, Deutsche Welle in
have mentioned this! RL Harris, Keynsham
Berlin and so on. Even in the USA, which we often think of as being dominated by Fox News and other lowbrow ‘shock’ broadcasters, there is a system of checks and balances in the shape of NPR
Sudoku 1-Easy
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 24th September
2 -Hard
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) 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 September 2023
9
Stepping back in time to the 1940s Avon Valley Railway took visitors back in time with the
freight trains.
The North Bristol Amateur Radio Club, who meet at Page
return of its annual 1940s weekend.
Among those dressed up were the Harrill family. Captain George
Community Association in Staple Hill, were also at the station
The event at the heritage station in Bitton was cancelled last year
Harrill is a serving Army officer with 243 Field Hospital based
inviting people to have a go at operating their equipment.
in the context of Russia having invaded Ukraine just months
at Keynsham Army Reserve Centre. He is also a military
Vintage buses transported visitors to and from the off-site
previously. But this year the organisers brought it back, with re-
historian and re-enactor lecturing on both world wars. He was
parking at Keynsham Station’s overflow car park, and on
enactors portraying life during the Second World War period,
joined by his wife Dawn, who is the Poppy Appeal organiser for
Saturday afternoon there was also a vintage bus service to
and vintage vehicles, props and posters on display.
the Bitton and Oldland branch of the Royal British Legion, their
another nearby heritage attraction, Warmley Signal Box.
There were also four locos hauling a mix of passenger and
daughter Becci and grand-daughter Ellie.
A vintage steam engine on display
Posters and props added to the wartime theme
Crossword
The Harrill family
All dressed up 1940s style
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Expecting a child (8)
1. Elapse (4)
5. Pool (4)
A 1941 Chevrolet Suburban
2. Inflammation of joints (4)
7. White-rooted crop (5,4)
3. Alert (5)
9. Smut (4)
5. Jetty (4)
10. English flower (4)
6. Representative (8)
11. Consult (5)
7. Dairy product (4,5)
14. Tennis stroke (5)
8. Dental pain (9)
15. Extreme (5) 16. Fake (5)
11. Medieval instrument (5)
17. Blend (5)
12. Battle (5)
18. Tantalise (5)
13. Corroded (5)
19. Spiteful (5)
14. South-western county
22. Actual (4)
(8)
24. Avoid deliberately (4)
20. Loft (5)
27. Tangy (4)
23. Wound dressing (4)
28. Injured party (8)
24. Drink mixer (4)
4. Item of furniture (5)
21. Period of adolescence (5) 26. Parasitic shrub (9)
25. Dark blue (4)
10
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
Deliveries of aid to Ukrainian families
Protest pilgrimage to Bristol Airport About 40 people, including five from Keynsham, braved one of the hottest September days on record for a pilgrimage
Members of Keynsham-based charity Hope for Ukraine
from Bristol Cathedral to Bristol Airport.
have recently received an update from their contact pastor
Participants were blessed by the Rev Jonnie Parkin, Canon
in Romania.
Missioner at the Cathedral and an Extinction Rebellion member,
At the end of July the latest aid mission left Keynsham
before setting off.
bound for Suceava in Northern Romania. From there the
This pilgrimage formed part of a day of action, with similar
charity’s partners have determined the areas of most need
events taking place including in London, Brighton, Durham,
and have been transporting it into some of the priority
Epsom, Glasgow, Newbury, Merseyside, Oxford and York. Each
areas in Ukraine.
centred around places of significance to the climate and
Meanwhile over the summer, the charity was contacted by
ecological crisis.
the youth pastor of a Ukrainian church in Bristol which was
Bristol Airport is to expand by two million passengers a year,
running youth camps for around 80 children aged between
despite climate advice and local opposition including North
eight and 15. Hope for Ukraine was able to donate 12 tents
Somerset Council’s original planning decision, opinions of local
from its Glastonbury Festival salvage, enabling more
MPs and surrounding councils, 8,900 people who objected in
children to be able to attend camp.
writing to the proposals and the many thousands who marched
Many of the walkers were keen to mark the end of the
See the charity’s website at https://hopeforukraine.org.uk/
against the expansion.
pilgrimage on Saturday 9th September by praying peacefully
for ways you can help.. You can also call 07933 712584.
The pilgrims on their way
inside the airport but were prevented from entering by airport staff so instead chose to claim the roundabout just outside as sacred ground. Morwenna White-Thomson, a retired speech and language therapist, was one of three protesters who managed to enter the departure terminal where they read a lament and held up signs with messages including ‘Tread Gently on the Earth’. The others were Ben Buse, a research associate at the University of Bristol, and teacher Patrick Laban. Morwenna said: “It is madness to be even considering airport
One of the families in Ukraine to receive aid from Keynsham
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
expansion when the evidence of climate breakdown is all around Patrick and Morwenna in the airport
us. It is also at complete odds with recommendations from all climate scientists.”
11
Historic success for Majestic Gymnastics Leading regional club Majestic Gymnastics is celebrating outstanding success at the British TeamGym Championships. A momentous achievement came from the senior women's team, who secured Majestic Gymnastics' first ever British gold medal in the senior category. Their performance has earned them the honour of representing Great
Britain in the Mid European Championships in Italy in November. The path leading up to the championships was not without its hurdles. The club has undergone significant changes, relocating from Longwell Green this summer and settling into a new home at the old Grange School site in Warmley. With the construction delays causing disruptions to their training routines, the gymnasts and
their coaches had to work tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming competition. Led by GB coach Stacey Godden and brevet judge James Langley, with invaluable support from competition helper Steve Offer and club directors Candice Littleton and Michelle George, the gymnasts travelled to Northumbria University to showcase their talent and determination at the summer’s
championships. Over the course of two intense days, the club faced fierce competition and a remarkably high standard of gymnastics. As well as gold for the senior women, Majestic gymnasts took silver in the primary challenge section and there were bronze medals for the club’s junior mixed and junior women, plus a sixth place in the youth national contest.
Return of popular clairvoyant Clairvoyant medium Steve Holbrook is about to embark on his latest national tour and will once more be calling in at Hanham for another evening of high emotion. His ability to act as what he calls a “telephone exchange” between this world and the spirit world has resulted in ‘house full’ signs at venues around the country for many years, and even as far as the Caribbean on cruise
Steve Holbrook
ships.
The senior women's team are British Champions
Passing on messages from loved ones who
and mediumship, Steve has written four
have passed away, Steve says, helps those left
books on spiritualism and raises thousands of
behind understand that life continues, but just
pounds for charities. The present chosen
in a different dimension.
cause is PACT (Parents’ Association of
One of his lifelong friends is BAFTA award-
Children with Tumours) for which he has
winning singer and TV presenter Jane
raised almost £30,000.
McDonald. They first met at a spiritualist
‘An
church several years earlier and he predicted
Mediumship with Steve Holbrook’ is on
she would become famous. Jane subsequently
Sunday 1st October at Hanham Community
dedicated her autobiography to Steve, calling
Centre, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £18
him her inspiration and guru.
from www.steveholbook.co.uk (booking fee
In addition to his evenings of clairvoyance
applies) or £20 on the door (cash only).
Evening
of
Clairvoyance
and
Police arrest 61 drivers Avon & Somerset Police arrested 61 drivers
driving for 21. Drivers in the 35-44 age group
(more than 80% of them male) for driving
accounted for around one third (20) of arrests,
under the influence of drink and/or drugs as
followed by 25 to 34-year-olds (19) and under
part of a targeted week-long national policing
25-year-olds (15).
operation in August aimed at reducing fatal
The operation also resulted in several other
and serious road traffic collisions.
offences being dealt with, including speeding,
This was a 20% increase on the arrests made
driving without a licence or insurance, illegal
during the same week in 2022. Drink-driving
drugs possession and going equipped to
accounted for 40 of the offences, and drug
steal.
Delve into local and family history
12
The Family and Local History Fair will be
how to unlock the stories behind old family
held at the BAWA Leisure Centre in Filton on
rumours and mysteries. Also in attendance
Saturday (23rd September) from 10am to
will be Bristol Record Office and Libraries.
4pm.
A number of local history and heritage groups
The free event is being organised and hosted
will reveal the work they have done on their
by the Bristol & Avon Family History Society
districts and communities and give tips on
(BAFHS).
how to research and record the history of your
Exhibitors will include a number of regional
own area. There will also be commercial
family history societies able to offer advice
exhibitors.
on research into your ancestors, with tips on
For more information visit www.bafhs.org.uk
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
Tackling the stigma of dementia by talking Bristol charity BRACE Dementia Research is hosting an event to get families talking about dementia and Alzheimer’s, while providing advice and support. ‘Let’s Talk Dementia’ is taking place on Saturday 30th September at Paintworks at Bath Road, Brislington, between 10am and 5pm. This event has something for everyone, whether living with dementia, caring for
someone with dementia or those keen to learn more about the condition that will affect one in two people. Meet a wide range of dementia experts offering advice and support, including dementia medics, care specialists, Bristol Dementia Wellbeing Service, and local charities such as Alive Activities who support older people and their carers in various ways, such as dementia allotments. You can also find out about local, groundbreaking dementia research and learn more about volunteering for research projects. The Royal West of England Academy will be running family-friendly and dementiafriendly art sessions and there will be a giant
Memorial hockey tournament raises hundreds for charities Keynsham Hockey Club recently hosted its
be something he would be extremely proud
Annual Memorial Hockey Tournament and
of.
raised £774.90 for Cancer Research UK and
“We continue to support Cancer Research in
the British Heart Foundation.
their mission to fight cancer. The club lost its
The event took place on a scorching hot day
former chair, Jo Bush, to the disease as well
at Wellsway Sports Centre and brought
as its 1st XI keeper Kim Baptiste. Both made
together Keynsham Hockey Club and Bristol
huge impacts to the development of the club.
and West Hockey Club for an exciting seven-
It was lovely to see the families of James and
a-side mixed hockey tournament. There was
Kim at the event.”
strong competition and Bristol and West
Katherine continued: “The fantastic work
players were ultimately crowned the winners.
Cancer Research does is even more poignant
Keynsham
chairwoman
as club member Dan Money underwent liver
Katherine Sears said: "The British Heart
surgery recently. The whole club joins me in
Foundation and Cancer Research are two
wishing Dan a speedy recovery and we will
charities very close to the club's heart. James
continue to support him in his fight and we
Clifford was one of the founders of our men's
are extremely proud of him and his bravery.”
section, who passed away very suddenly and
The organisers extend their gratitude to
is sorely missed, but I'm sure the recent
everyone who contributed to the event’s
promotion of both our men's teams would
success.
Hockey
Club
inflatable brain dome that visitors can go inside and watch a short brain show. Chris Williams, director of BRACE Dementia Research, said: “If you are living with dementia or are caring for someone with dementia, it can feel isolating, overwhelming and difficult to know where to turn. We all need to better understand dementia and not be afraid to talk about it. We invite local people from all walks of life in the Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas to come together to make the most of the free activities and free expert advice on offer throughout the day. Children, The brain dome grandparents, families, and a free ticket in advance to secure your place friends – this event is for everyone.” The site is fully accessible and a short walk is recommended – visit www.alzheimersor bus journey from Temple Meads. Booking brace.org/events/lets-talk-dementia
Situations Vacant
Afternoon tea concert at church The Magpie Music Group will be giving an afternoon tea concert at St Mary’s Church in Bitton on Saturday 30th September at 3pm. Admission is free with a retiring collection for church funds and the Children’s Hospice South West.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
13
Crossword Solution
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy
2-Hard
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023
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16
The Week in • Wednesday 20th September 2023