Filtonvoice October 2012

filtonvoicewww.filtonvoice.co.uk

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in FiltonOctober, 2012 Issue 12

BUSINESS DIRECTORY P2 | LETTERS P8&9 | FASHION P30-31 | WHAT’S ON P45-46

NOW find Filtonvoice on Facebookwww.facebook.com/filtonvoiceand on Twitter@filtonvoice

Charborough Road Primary reunion special: Pages 17-19

Is anyone listening? Conygre residents speak out at meetingSpecial report Pages 4&5

PLUSInfants’ first class picturePages 14&15

Barrier to stop caravansPage 7

Tributes to Filton stalwart Noel3

Filton youth services’ reprieve

Filton’s youth services have won a reprieve after South Glos councillors voted to retain £32,000 funding for Filton.

This means the youth services at St Andrew’s and Pyramid Youth Club should be able to continue their work.

There were fears the service could be at risk under South Glos proposals to outsource youth provision but councillors agreed to maintain services in the district’s priority neighbourhoods, including Filton.

Blood centre open again after flood The NHS Blood and Transplant Centre in Filton has reopened again after it was hit by flooding.

Blood supplies were moved from the centre in Bristol which was closed last month.

The centre covers the Midlands, South West and part of the South East.

Other sites around the country took the stocks of blood and continued to supply local hospitals.

A statement from the NHS Blood Service said they were looking at the “longer-term implications” of the flooding.

Filton told: Pay up or face street lights switch-off Page 3

Caspian Chip Shop EXCLUSIVE

offer.Page 20


FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in FiltonJune 2012 Issue 9

BUSINESS DIRECTORY P2 | LETTERS P14-15 | SCHOOLS P18-19 | WHAT’S ON P44-45

2nd August - £335

7th July - £430 16th July - £379

28th July - £520

It’s Filton Festival time! Full details on Pages 24/25

Jubilee and Olympic Torch

Pictures from both events INSIDE

PLUS, IN YOUR 48-PAGE EDITIONl Filton secondary’s backing from inspectors, P3l Residents in Filton being ‘invaded’, P6/7l S Glos U-turn on roundabout land deal, P8l Union boss’s scathing attack on council, P13l Woman, 88, dies after bus incident, P31l Golf club captain’s special charity year, P35


FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Filton

Books, 6Schools, 6-9What’s on, 18Gardening, 20

Recipe, 27Puzzles, 27History, 27 Fashion, 29

Inside

December 2011, Issue 3

Exciting plans to revamp Filton’s tennis courts, P5

PLUSFive plays at Mayhem soft play, £1 each. P8

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Nativity pictures from ALL Filton’s primary schoolsTurn to pages 6 and 7

Anger over caravans in car park, PAGE 2Filton street lights to be turned off, PAGE 3

Head teacher’s fears for safety, PAGE 9Farewell to popular leisure boss, PAGE 24

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers and advertisers!Filton tax rise ... but it could have been moreFilton residents are facing a council tax precept rise of 1.5% next year - around £2.66 per household.The precept is separate from the main South Gloucestershire council tax and is used to directly fund the town council.A summer cost scrutiny programme, which identified savings of around six per cent, or £50,000, from the council’s budget, has limited the increase in the precept.

It means that the average Band D household in Filton will be paying around £177 for the Filton precept part of their Council Tax bill.Among the factors leading to the rise were £10,000 in lost market revenue which had been expected but never materialised. Other factors included taking into account that the budgeted

Turn to Page 3

Filtonvoice ... one year on Pages 36&37

www.filtonvoice.co.uk October, 2012T: 0777 555 0607

To advertise, contact Richard on 0777 555 0607, Emma on 0771 577 0448 or Wendy on 0771 577 0242. Email: [email protected]

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Many thanks to everyone who has offered such positive feedback about your monthly magazine. And it is YOUR magazine ... a place to find out things about our community and have your say.

For businesses, it’s a great - and affordable - chance to get your message out to 12,000+ people locally.

“I have used FiltonVoice from the very first issue to advertise our FACS

(Friends of Abbeywood Community School) events. At our car boot sale on 19th May we asked people coming through the door how they had heard of the event and the vast majority said it was because they’d seen it in FiltonVoice. They also commented on what a great magazine it is. I shall continue using the magazine to advertise our fundraising events. Many thanks.

Jeanne Clements (FACS)

“Recently I had a problem with my double glazed front door. The lock had

jammed, and I was unable to open it.

I contacted a local locksmith and was told that it would be impossible to repair the lock, and the only solution would be a new door, costing in the region of £600 – 700, and would take at least a week as the door would have to be made.

Not convinced that this was the only solution, I contacted DGR Windows, as advertised in your magazine. The gentleman visited the same day and was sure the problem could be fixed. He returned the following day with the necessary parts, and the problem was solved at a cost of £250.

The work was carried out in a friendly and professional manner, and I cannot praise

this company highly enough.”Name and address supplied

“We decided to advertise with Filtonvoice as we felt it was the most

professional looking local magazine. I feel we have proved to be right and the costs have been well worth it, we now have bookings months in advance.

Ashley & Sarah PorterPorters catering

“I decided to put an ad in filtonvoice and I was delighted to pick up work

well into next year, and not just a one-off job but a number of jobs.

Gardener Graham Cook

“At Dream Doors we have been so impressed with filtonvoice. We have

had several enquiries in the short period we have been advertising. But in addition, we are happy and proud to be associated with such a high quality publication – it is well written, well designed and it is probably the best local magazine we have seen.

The monthly distribution through letterboxes means that the customers we are trying to reach will read our message and the fact that the magazine is so good means we know people will not throw it away. Keep up the good work!

Loretta, Dream Doors

“Just received the copy of Filton Voice. It looks very good. A good mixture of

local news, advertising and top class promotions!

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Please support local firms who advertise and when you do, please mention filtonvoice

EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation.

We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services.

Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton

residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or [email protected].

Local advertising in filtonvoice works

All you need ... in one magAccountant

Martin Green, Page 45Aerials

Andrew Murley, Page 42Blinds

Bristol Blinds, Page 32Beauty

Sarah’s Sanctuary, 6Butcher

Gales Farm Meats, Page 21Millhouse, Page 31

Children’s activitiesGymtastic, Page 47

ChiropractorMcTimoney, Page 3

Computer repairsgoto iT, Page 10PC Pal, Page 47

Days OutAvon Valley Railway, Page 30

DoctorHorfield Health Centre, Page 16

DoorsDoor Express, Page 26

Door repairDGR, Page 43

Education/tuitionExplore Learning, Page 8

ElectricianES Till, Page 29

FitnessRiverside, Page 39

FloristsFlowers in Bloom, Page 26

Foster careTACT, Page 28

FurnitureBranches, Page 48

FuneralsBCM, Page 34

GaragesFilton Central Garage, Page 7

Brookfield, Page 12 Westlec, Page 20

GardeningGraham Cook, Page 4

Gas servicesBristol Gas, Page 20

GiftsHeadlines, Page 47

Hairdressers/barbersFilton Barber, Page 21Way-A-Head, Page 26

Chopps, Page 10Kitchens

Dream Doors, Page 30Local authority

Filton Town Council, Pages 24/25Meal delivery

Wiltshire Farm Foods, Page 23Oven cleaning

Ovenclean, Page 20Pest control

Falcon, Page 47Plumber

Bristol Gas, Page 29Plumber services, Page 47

Public relationsAmageo Media, Page 47

Record collectionsJamie, Page 47

RestaurantMcDonald’s, Page 27

Retirement livingChurchill, Page 6

Rubbish removalMark, Page 47

Schools/EducationRidings, Pages 12

Kumon, Page 13Abbeywood, Page 22

Therapy/hypnotherapyChris & Elizabeth Clarke, Page 2

Johann’s, Page 5Towbars

LNB, page 40Vets

Vets4Pets, Page 11Weddings

Aztec Hotel, Page 9Wills

Allguard Page 4Windows and doors

DGR, Page 43

Local information

Directory of advertisers

South Gloucestershire Councilwww.southglos.gov.uk

01454 868009Safer Stronger team

[email protected] 868009

Anti social behaviour [email protected]

01454 868582Streetcare/litter/vandalism etc

[email protected] 868009

Environment/trading standards01454 868001

Policewww.avonandsomersetpolice.uk

General enquiries: 101Emergency: 999

Firewww.avonfire.gov.uk

General enquiries: 0117 926 2061Emergency: 999

Filton Town CouncilMore information on Pages 16/17

01454 866 698NHS Direct

0845 46 47

Dip HSM. MNCH (Acc) CNHC Registered Chris & Elizabeth Clarke

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Anxiety, Phobias, Confidence, Panic Attacks, IBS, Habits, Smoking,

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0117 969 2281www.candeclarke.co.uk

ContactsRichard CoulterEditor and publisher0777 555 0607 | [email protected]

Emma CooperAdvertising sales0771 577 0448 | [email protected]

www.filtonvoice.co.ukOctober, 2012 filtonvoiceE: [email protected]

Got a story/something you would like everyone in Filton to know about? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email [email protected]

3

Filton could be in the dark as street lights switch-off loomsNeighbourhoods across Filton could be left without street lighting for more than four hours each night under plans by South Glos to save money and reduce its carbon footprint.

The idea was first suggested several months ago and now the authority will consult before implementing the policy, which will affect all communities in the district.

It is understood that areas like Filton will be told that if residents want to keep lights on, they will have to pay for it themselves through the parish precept (the element of council tax which goes to the town council).

Under the proposals, lights would be switched off from dawn to dusk as now and also between midnight and 4.15am (BSt) and 1am to 5.15am (GMT).

South Glos councillor Roger Hutchinson was criticised by residents at a meeting of the town council when he said that he had been reassured by council officers that Filton neighbourhoods would not be at risk from increased crime if the proposals went ahead.

One resident asked why Cllr Hutchinson had backed the proposal and not supported the views of the town council at an earlier meeting when they said they believed lights should stay on.

In a statement submitted to the council, Cllr Hutchinson said: “The policy is intended to ensure that the lighting policy assists in energy management, carbon management and control of light pollution. In addition there will be a financial saving to the council, which will be approved as we move towards lower energy lighting through LED.”

He said that there would be exceptions in certain areas if it was thought the policy could lead to mitigation of night time crime or anti social behaviour.

There would also be exceptions in areas which have CCTV, sheltered housing and controlled junctions.

He said: “It is intended there will be full consultation with town and parish councils

and should there be a wish by a council to retain lighting in adddition to those identified, then this will be possible but charged to the council.”

He told the meeting: “No neighbourhood should be at any more risk and priority neighbourhoods will have lights on in more places than in other areas.”

Cllr Melanie Drewitt said: “We have higher crime here so we shouldn’t have the lights off at night.”

It is understood there may be concessions in some areas where there are vulnerable residents.

Cllr Brian Mead said he was against the switch-off and was sceptical of some police views that crime would not be adversely affected.

He said: “It is harder to cross the road when the lights are off and I am totally against the switch-off. I don’t think it brings crime down.”

Mr Mead said South Glos should look at alternative technology.

Cllr Rikki Teml said: “As a council, we voted before to oppose the lights being switched off. Was our letter even read out at the meeting?”

Councillors agreed the switch-off should not happen in Filton and will now invite South Glos officers to a future meeting to explain the thinking.

There was no indication as to the time-frame for the switch-off.

Letters: Pages 8&9

News

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Cllr Roger Hutchinson spoke to Filtonvoice after the town council meeting As is known I reported to the Town Council at the September meeting that I voted in favour of the policy which will mean that our non essential street lights will be switched off from midnight to 04:15 in the summer and 01:00 to 05:00 in the winter.

I have been criticised for supporting this policy in spite of opposition several months ago by the Town Council, however this is a policy that covers the whole of South Gloucestershire as one of the key parts of the carbon reduction plan. In fact a number of Town and Parish Councils have already had the plan implemented in their areas.

I have been accused of not supporting Filton, however, we

cannot be exempt from a policy that covers the whole of South Gloucestershire and is designed to assist in energy management, carbon management and reducing light pollution.

Inevitably the council is looking to save money, which is a necessity, given the massive cuts in grant. We have to take decisions on numerous large and small services and it is my view that saving on switching off some of the lights during a few night time hours is worth doing if we can save important services and keep council tax down.

Where it is possible I do all that I can to protect local services but it needs to be understood that while I and my two colleagues try to influence budgets and new finance streams it is against the background of massive cuts.



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News feature

BusesResidents in Conygre have again expressed their anger over the ward’s lack of bus services.

A series of changes over the past 12 months have seen services gradually withdrawn, meaning the stretch of Filton Avenue between the Ring Road and the A38 has no services at all.

The 71 and 72 buses were withdrawn in September 2011 and the U8 service, which was supported by South Glos Council, has now been withdrawn as well.

South Glos has said the 74 is

a ‘replacement’ but this will not run along Filton Avenue in the Conygre ward.

At the recent meeting of Filton Town Council, residents said they now had a 15 minute walk to the nearest bus stop.

One resident said: “Under the new South Glos timetables, there are seven buses which go along the south part of Filton Avenue but none for people in Conygre.

“Why should we pay our council tax for South Glos to negotiate with First when we don’t get any transport.”

A 600-name petition which called for restoration of serviees

Is anybody listening?At the September meeting of Filton Town Council, held in Conygre Ward, many residents spoke of their dismay at the way Filton, and in particular, Conygre, was being treated by official bodies. Many topics were raised, including bus services, hedges and litter, the Filton postcode and Merlin Housing Society

was being presented to South Glos, Cllr Ian Scot confirmed.

Over the past year, Cllr Scott has been working to investigate alternative options such as re-routing the 18 bus along Conygre Road but it is understood First has timetable concerns about such a plan.

LitterResidents said they had been failed by the council over the amount of rubbish on the streets of Filton, and in particular Conygre.

The town council was told that many hedges were growing into the public footpaths.

Residents said that one particular area of concern was the approach to Filton Abbeywood Station on EmmaChris Way.

Cllr Roger Hutchinson said he had spoken to South Glos officers and was waiting on a report

which would outline what work needed to be carried out.

One resident told the town council: “We feel we have been failed by the council. Filton is not clean and there is rubbish all over the place, especially from chip shops and so on.”

Residents have also reported lack of action from South Glos’s Streetcare team, which looks after the general appearance and maintenance of roads in the area.

PostcodeCampaigners fighting to bring all of Filton under one postcode were dismayed to hear the Post Office had rejected calls to make all of the area BS34.

Currently around 2,000 homes - mainly those nearest the Bristol boundary - are BS7.

Campaigners, who collected a large petition calling ofor the change, said that a BS7 postcode resulted in higher insurance



5News featurepremiums. They also said that Filton people want to feel they are from Filton, not Bristol and a mixed postcode gave the wrong message.

Cllr Bill Moore said that in communication he had had with the Post Office, officials had indicated that there was no benefit to the PO of making the change, meaning the campaign was “dead and buried”.

Campaigner Brian Smith, however, said he would continue to fight for the change.

MerlinConcrete cancerResidents said they were concerned that the planned changes being considered by Merlin to knock down homes with so-called ‘concrete cancer’ were causing considerable upset for elderly people. As previously reported, Merlin say they need to rebuild or refurbish nearly 90 homes in Filton over the next five or six years.

One resident, who had been in her home for 55 years, told the town council: “We believe houses in Rodney Crescent are going to be knocked down and we are very concerned. We can’t be moved out like this at our age.”

Other residents have expressed concern that the rebuilt homes will have significantly smaller gardens.”

Cllr Rikki Teml said: “I am very concerned about this and we need to find out exactly what is going on and to protect our elderly residents.”

Resident Darren Nation said: “I feel Merlin are running roughshod over residents.

“The council needs to clamp

down on them and not give planning permission.”

A Merlin spokesperson said: “We’ve appointed Gloucester based Quattro Design Architects who have much experience in the redevelopment of PRC homes.

“They are now starting feasibility studies into 30 sites which will take about 3 months to complete. Once we have this information, we will be able to make a final decision on which sites are suitable for development. We can then start to involve residents in the plans for each site.

“The consultation that we ran on the prospect of redevelopment has just closed and the results of this will be used when our Board make their decision on each site.”

Newleaze HouseThe Merlin-supported sheltered home in Filton is facing closure over the next few years.

Merlin say they need to close the building as it is no longer fit for purpose and renovation would not be possible.

The building has significant issues relating to stairways and also the size of some of the flats.

There have been concerns that residents are being left very uncertain as to their future.

As reported in previous issues, there have also been suggestions that the building’s use could change and there have been fears over options such as student accommodation.

Cllr Adam Monk said: “Some residents are happy with their accommodation and should not be forced out.

“We urge Merlin to reduce the stress for residents and take into account their wishes.”

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A spokesperson for Merlin said: “We strongly challenge the idea that we don’t listen to our customers in Filton. We’re proud of the consultation that we’ve done around our plans in this area and have received lots of positive feedback from residents telling us that they think we’ve done a good job too.

“For both these projects, we’ve gone above and beyond our legal obligations to ensure that the people affected are informed about our proposals and can feed their thoughts in.

“With regards to the 59 non-traditional homes being considered for redevelopment in Filton, we’ve run drop in sessions for residents and councillors, hand delivered letters and leaflets to affected homes, written to other neighbours who might be affected, and produced a special project newsletter to keep everyone informed.

“We ran a formal consultation on the proposals and out of 255 residents who responded, 131 were in favour. These responses will be taken into account when we make a decision about which sites to redevelop. As yet, we have not made that decision.

“At the moment we are carrying out feasibility studies to see if there are any technical, legal or planning issues which would prevent a site from being redeveloped.

“We’ll have this information in the New Year and will let

people know as soon as we can.

“With regards to Newleaze House, we had three resident members of the project team who helped design the whole communication and consultation process. Residents at Newleaze and the other schemes have had several group and one-to-one meetings to talk through our plans; we’ve produced information packs, and given presentations to explain the types of support that is on offer to people.

“We arranged for a special phone line and support from Age UK for anyone who needed help filling in the actual consultation form. Of the 19 responses we had to the consultation, 14 agreed with our proposals, with one commenting: “The building wasn’t fit for purpose the day it was commissioned in the 1960s. Change of use is obviously the best”.

“We’re currently putting the final touches to the financial and support package that will be available to residents, based on what they have told us they need from us. We hope to go out and see them again once this has been finalised.

“We know that the prospect of needing to move because of either of these projects is upsetting to some of our residents, which is why we are working with them to give them as much information as possible, and a real chance to influence the proposals.“

Response from Merlin

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7

Barrier to be installed after travellers’ caravans returnA barrier will be erected at Filton’s shoppers’ car park after more travellers set up camp last month.

The chairman of Filton’s chamber of trade, Aaron Naughton, had called for urgent action to install barriers at the Gloucester Road North shoppers’ car park after travellers’ caravans returned.

Speaking to Filtonvoice, he said: “This shows the council does listen to community groups and hopefully this will improve business in the area.”

Filtonvoice understands the barrier could be in place within a month and officers have signed off the project.

Cllr Adam Monk said: “Given the strength of feeling on this issue, it was important we acted swiftly and decisively.”

The latest arrival mirrored earlier incidents in December last year when several caravans blocked spaces in the car park.

Mr Naughton requested urgent action from South Glos Council.

When Filtonvoice visited the car park, four caravans were taking over several bays – against the standing orders displayed on signs which say parking is restricted to 12 hours.

Mr Naughton said: “This year, we have had many issues with travellers using our 12 hour stay car park as their new campsite.

Their presence violates the rules of the carpark which any

normal citizen would be clamped for and in my view has also started driving businesses away from the Filton area which has become detrimental to sustaining a strong community.

“After South Gloucestershire Council issued notices and there was press attention from Filtonvoice and the Evening Post, the caravans did move on after a couple of days.

“However the car park has again become a regular place for them to stop. There were currently no parking spaces available in the carpark at 12 o’clock on a Monday afternoon as

the majority were taken up by vans, caravans and a dog with a kennel even had his own space.

“This has become a recurring problem within the past year, and since then, three well known local businesses have closed on this street.

“I obviously cannot say this issue has caused businesses to shut down, but I am most certain it would have made a minor contribution which is something we cannot afford to have happen in the Filton area.

“We need to pull together and help each other.

“Local businesses approached me asking me what the Filton Chamber of Trade are going to do about it and one individual was in most distressed, saying he’s thinking of closing up because of it.

A council official told Mr Naughton that inspectors have regularly ejected illegal caravans but agreed that long-term a barrier was needed.

It is understood that enforcement is a grey area with South Glos having taken control of the car park but its location is technically within the Bristol city boundary.

News



filtonvoice8Letters and opinions

Have you got strong views about what’s happening in Filton? Or you might want to take the opportunity to praise a friend, neighbour or family member for an act of kindness or to mark an achievement.

Whatever you want to say, write to us and we’ll make sure everyone in Filton knows about it. Send your letter by email to [email protected], by post to Letters, Filtonvoice, 49 Dunkeld Avenue, Filton BS34 7RQ or call us on 0777 555 0607. You can also comment on stories at www.filtonvoice.co.uk. Please keep letters short. The editor reserves the right to edit your letter.

Your views

Come and join us on Saturday November 24th at 2.00pm. We are sure you will find something of interest here! Christmas presents, cards, papers, candles, cakes etc. We are also having a tombola, raffles and a white elephant stall!

After that you can sit in our lounge and

enjoy a nice cup of tea or coffee…

Address: Gloucester Road North,

Filton BS34 7PD

Street lights switch-off plansI live on Filton Avenue. Most Fridays-Sundays late at night/very early in the morning we have noisy usually drunk people walking past the house, and before now we’ve had rocks, bottles thrown at the house, wing mirrors pulled off of cars around here, people’s bins being pulled over.

The last thing people around here need is to be plunged into darkness. It’s not safe.

On some of the side streets along Filton Avenue there isn’t enough lighting, especially coming & going towards Filton Abbeywood Train Station where the trains run pretty late & it gets increasingly dark towards winter. The last thing anyone needs is for what little lighting there is being turned off.

I’m not sure I’d fancy walking around this road late at night if I wasn’t so young or so physically able.

Dominyk Fraser-Tiller

Given the clear and total message given to South Gloucestershire councillor Roger Hutchinson, that Filton residents were opposed to a total switch off, it is abundantly clear that we have been bypassed in our mandate.

Furthermore FTC also made it clear they were opposed to this six months ago and wrote to the authority to express this.

The time has come to ask for resignations where councillors will not represent their constituents. Democracy is broken in Filton. Voting in favour of this motion has let everyone down badly.

Arthur Jones

I agree with comments about tuning off half the lighting, but the money saved should be invested in making the street lights solar powered. Initial cost would be high, but if they are looking for long term savings, this may be the way to go.

Anthony Mannings

I think it is a brilliant idea. It has worked in many other areas already

Happy

Politics aside, I would agree that turning the lights off in the middle of the night would be a good thing.

Whilst the increase in fear of crime may increase previous schemes have shown that the actual level of crime does not increase. Positives – cost savings, reduced pollution due to energy savings and reduction of light pollution.

James

You can’t separate politics from this. We have been betrayed by a councillor who doesn’t listen.

Those who say its a great idea to turn off lighting are in the dark themselves as we won’t receive a reduction in our council tax. It saves the council money, not us!

Are you happy to pay two taxes and prop up both South Glos and Filton councils, plus pay three South Glos councillors to sit back and let them ride roughshod over us time after time.

Glass half full just doesn’t work, you are being shafted

John

I suspect that my view over the behaviour of some of the



9Letters and opinionscouncillors are fairly close to yours but this would be a saving regardless of who gets the money - it all goes into the same pot to be spent in the coming financial year. Frankly the odd pound and pence this might save me doesn’t make me feel that I have been “shafted”, as I feel the other non monetary benefits would be payback enough.

Allowances A disgraceful waste of money (councillors’ allowances) given it’s the residents who champion things like security gating, bus shelters, saving clinics, dropping land grabs and ridiculous projects. Cllr Hutchinson refuses to pay to use boules courts because of fair charging and now goes elsewhere. I am convinced we don’t need three cllrs.

£122,000 in three years, because they’re worth it or because they can claim it?

Filtonnian

Ratepayers With all the debate on the ratepayers why not turn it into a sports and social club ??

Already various sport teams use the facilities and park and with the right club management I personally believe this will be supported by all local clubs! Your thoughts?

Ian

Concorde I was somewhat annoyed at the recent version of the “Choir” when I saw the building at Manchester Airport being named the Concorde Business Centre and there in a lovely building was the coveted aircraft with its British Airways logo and then our devoted aircraft lies on the airfield at Filton, its real home, and rusts away.

When is the Local Goverment and in particular Airbus with all its billions going to do to protect and preserve our Concorde.

Malcolm Brown

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Letter of the month£10 prizeSend your letters to the addresses (email or normal mail) opposite and the best one will receive £10 each month. Editor’s decision is final. Letters must not be anonymous and an address supplied (address will not be published if requested)



filtonvoice10

The BIG picture

Fancy yourself as a bit of a photographer? Now’s your chance to win £10 as part of our new feature, The Big Picture. We’re looking for photos which capture life in Filton and we’ll print the best ones each month. To take part, send your picture by email to [email protected] by the last day of the month. The editor’s decision is final.

Cash on offer for our snapper of the month

In September, the last airworthy Vulcan bomber flew over Filton airfield to mark the aircraft’s 60th anniversary.

Photographer Rikki Teml was on hand to capture the moment, which was watched by large crowds.



11Obituary

There will be many residents of Filton who will be particularly saddened at the death of Noel Harris, a well-known citizen who took such a prominent part in Filton’s Community life. She died on Monday, 1st October aged 89.

Noel will be particularly noted for her work in connection with the Filton Community Centre (formerly the Folk Centre). Her late husband, Leslie ... a well respected Headmaster of Shield Road Primary School at Filton ... was the Association’s co-founder.

Along with Leslie she was instrumental in the detailed historical research for their book, Filton, Gloucestershire, still the standard history of the town.

Committed to serving the community, she took a very active part in furthering Council activities when Filton was a Parish and was notably involved in it eventually becoming a Town. She was also a former member of Northavon District Council, now South Gloucestershire Council.

A persistent activist for the interests of Filton she spared no efforts in proclaiming her points of view, contributing in many ways to this prominent aerospace town.

Noel was born in Trowbridge, Wiltshire in 1922.

Her father was a tailor and her mother a seamstress. She spent some time during the war as a nurse, but greatly enjoyed

gardening which was her first love, and saw out her war service as a land girl in Wiltshire.

Noel had two sons, John now living in York, and Richard who died three years ago.

For many years she ran the Meals on Wheels and Luncheon Club service. She also helped run the Filton Horticultural Society and was then a founder member of Filton Garden Club.

But I feel Noel will be remembered most of all in her extensive efforts in Community work for Filton. That really took

pride of place in her life, not entirely in the political context but helping every aspect of Community life in this town and where help was needed .... Noel was there.

She had a close association with the Twinning Association particularly in twin town Witzenhausen, Germany where she had many friends.

Those who use the Community Centre will no doubt have witnessed the Short Mat Bowls Club that she started and greatly enjoyed helping to run.

She will live long in our memories in Filton. She devoted much of her life here.

A tremendous example for others to follow. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to her family in their sad loss ... a valued member of our community.

The funeral service was being held at St Peter’s Church, Filton on Friday, October 12th at 2.00pm.

Cllr Douglas Daniels(President: Filton

Community Association)

When help was needed ... Noel was always there

Typical Noel: at the Filton Community Association Anniversary Fayre, September 1984, behind the table at the Filton Historical Research Group’s white elephant stall.



filtonvoice12B

ROOKFIELD GARAGEIndependent Ford specialist but any make or model welcome for Service, Repairs, Air Conditioning & MOTs

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Yate International AcademyWednesday 14th November 2012 - 6.30pm – 8.30pm

International Baccalaureate EveningWinterbourne International AcademyWednesday 21st November 2012 - 7.00pm – 8.30pm

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Filton schools

Abbeywood Community School was proud to support Macmillan Nurses ‘Biggest Coffee Morning in the World” event on Friday, 28th September.

An array of delicious cakes were baked by Catering and Food Technology students.

Staff, governors and students were able to purchase the cakes along with hot chocolate

at a cafe-style break time in The Atrium and the school was delighted to make £160.24 profit.

Year 10 Catering Student Chloe Blythe said: ” The cake sale was a great success. We were very pleased with the donations for Macmillan Nurses because this charity does so much for people with cancer and their families”



13

Shield Road PrimaryHead teacher Mr Mepham is proud to announce the best SAT test results in the school’s history.

He said: “Our SATs results this year are fantastic and exceed all previous results for the school.

“This achievement is the result of outstanding hard work and effort from the Year 6 staff team and determined Year 6 pupils who worked their socks off.

“I put our success down to perseverance and commitment on everyone’s part’.

A number of parents made comments on the end-of-year reports:

‘I have seen a great improvement in her attitude to learning. She has become more grown up and mature’

‘The teachers have managed

my child really well and I am happy with his progress.’

‘My child is always happy at Shield Road. She enjoys everything and has had a really great year’.

‘Thank you for your support. We are proud parents’

‘We are delighted with his progress. You have turned him around!’

‘I am very pleased with her development this year and have seen a big improvement in her Maths and her writing’

Full SATs results2012 L4 +(%) L5 +(%)English 100 30Reading 100 59Writing 96 26Maths 92 48

LET YOUR CHILD AMAZE YOU Kumon is a different kind of after school learning programme. With Kumon, children master the basics of maths and English. Plus they build the learning skills, study habits and confidence

they need to succeed in school .... and beyond.

Local Kumon instructor Hilary Templer says: "Kumon really helped my daughter make the transition from primary to secondary school. Kumon works

because children start at a familiar level, something they can master and feel good about. Each child is then progressed at a pace which is just right for them. This means Kumon is suitable for children of all ages and abilities. No one is left behind and no one is held back."

Horfield Kumon Study centre opening in September at the Horfield Leisure Centre. For more details contact Hilary Templer on 0117 942 0290 or email [email protected]

Filton schoolsPride at SATs results

Filton Hill PrimaryThe school is hosting open days for children due to start primary school in 2013.

Head teacher Kirsten Lemming said: “At Filton Hill we can offer you:• A Good school with an

Outstanding Reception unit (Ofsted 2009)

• A good atmosphere and positive relationships between pupils of all ages

• A school with a happy, safe and caring ethos

• A school where children become independent learners and fulfill their potential, through building their confidence and self-esteem

• High quality teaching of a creative curriculum

• A stimulating indoor and outdoor environment

• Healthy School status.• After-school events, clubs and

sporting competitions

• A successful Breakfast Club • A school with an awareness

of the multicultural society we live in

• A school where parents are very much welcome and encouraged to become involved with their child’s education

• High expectations of behaviour • Good spiritual, social and

moral development• A school where pupils are

consulted on a range of issues and involved with their learning

• A school where the children feel valued as individuals and respected for their individual talents and needs.

• A school where adults always listen to children and encourage them to care for each other.

“Please come and visit and see for yourself. The open days are on Wednesday 7th November at 9:30 am and Tuesday 13th November at 1:30 pm.”

Open days at Filton Hill



filtonvoice14

First class



15At our local primaries, the reception classes are settling in to life in school. Here are some pictures of their very first class

Opposite top, Charborough Road; opposite below, Filton Hill; above, Shield Road; right, St Teresa’s



filtonvoice16

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Extensive range of services offered including:Stop smoking support | on-site pharmacy | travel clinic | sexual health

See www.horfieldhealthcentre.nhs.uk for further information and registration formHorfield Health Centre, Lockleaze Road, Horfield, Bristol BS7 9RR, Tel: 0117 9695391, Email: [email protected]

Listening • Caring • Responsive

Petcare with Michael Parry of Vets4Pets in FiltonSummer may be ending but the fleas are still there. Central heating keeps us cosy and warm in the winter, but it also provides the ideal environment for fleas to thrive and they love the warm wet summers and mild winters we are experiencing.

Fleas are very small and can be hard to detect. Adult fleas are tiny, dark brown, wingless insects which can jump up to 165 times their own length!

In order to survive and breed, fleas need to feed on blood from either pets or people. For young puppies and kittens this blood loss can be distressing. In adult pets and humans the flea bite leads to irritation and skin allergy problems. Fleas are also involved in the transmission of tapeworms.

Don’t wait for your pet to itch or scratch before thinking about flea treatments. Effective and regular flea control will help make sure your pet, family and house stay flea free.

Unfortunately there are many ineffective products that are on the market.

Michael Parry, Veterinary Surgeon BVSc MRCVS, says: “It’s important pet owners receive professional advice on treating fleas. This way we can prescribe effective treatment and make sure the dosage is correct for your much loved friend. We can also apply the treatment correctly to help make sure your pet is protected and to help prevent resistance.”

Vets4Pets can help your pet send bugs packing with 25% off “Bug Packs!”.



17

Charborough Road School 85th anniversary

The happiest days of our life

Charborough Road Primary school became the focus of an unusual pilgrimage on Saturday 22 September as pupils, who had downed their books between forty and nearly eighty years ago, headed back to their first school once more.

Over 200 former pupils who were at the school between 1927 and 1977 made the journey from all parts of England and further afield, with two former pupils travelling from the United States especially for the occasion. Together with a

It was a remarkable day last month when more than 200 former pupils of Charborough Road Primary gathered to celebrate the school’s 85th anniversary. Here, organiser Graham Harris reflects on a memorable occasion

Continued over



filtonvoice18Charborough Road School 85th anniversary

further 300 visitors who went to the school in more recent times, their families and community visitors, they packed into the school on a lovely sunny afternoon.

Once they stepped over the threshold, they had the opportunity to look around and view the wide range of displays, covering the whole of the school’s life from 1927 to today, together with a display of over 300 feature photographs covering the first fifty years of the school’s life.

The historical display described the history of the school from its origin, through the challenging wartime experience, to the building of the additional classrooms in the late 1940s, to cope with the rapidly increasing numbers of school age children in the Filton area. An architect’s plan of the design of the new Council School from c. 1925 was displayed, complemented by later plans drawn up from memory by former pupils of the school in the early 1940s and late 1950s, as well as more recent plans of the school layout.

The displays provided something for everyone and included photographs from most years from the 1930s onwards but with many class photographs of children from the mid 1930s and from late 1950-1970.

Many of these were found in the photograph collection of a former much loved teacher – Mr Ronald Laidler – who, although now well into his 90s, also went back to school for the day!

Sadly another much loved first year infant’s teacher, Miss Patricia Propert/Mrs Patricia Appleby, who was hoping to travel from Wales for the Open Day, died in June this year.

Other photographs were provided by former pupils and teachers plus the Local Filton History group, making a unique photographic record of the school, the teachers and the children that spent their first six or seven years of their education at the Charborough Road school.

School reports from 1934 were kindly provided by former pupils, or their families, and these provided an insight to the different styles used for reporting over the period and who the form teachers were and the head masters who added their

comments. Former children’s memories, the early school reports and information from a prize giving day in 1928 provided the names of many of the early teachers, whereas the later school log books provided teachers names from 1939 onwards and these names were then added to the extensive gallery of teachers photographs from 1946 to 1981, which nearly filled a corridor and provided much interest.

The two and half year project was first reported in Filtonvoice in April and helped locate a number of former children, with mums still living in the Filton area sending on the article to

their children who had moved away from Filton.

Together with extensive searching to locate other pupils from the school, the project located hundreds of former children who were eager to be reminded of their school times and to share their happy, and sometimes not so happy, memories of their times at the school. Many former children helped me as the co-ordinator for this historical project to establish which classes were in the photographs, where and when they were taken and in many cases the children themselves. This led to the exciting phase

of tracing where these children had gone after completing their education in the Bristol area and led to the sending of letters and e-mails to many countries. A particular and successful focus of this process was to locate as many former children who were at the school in the 1930s and 1940s and encourage them to come to the 85th party at the school. However, younger pupils, including those at the school today, who also helped show visitors around the school, were not forgotten and there were displays of later school life for them to see. Other pupils were involved in the preparations for



19Charborough Road School 85th anniversary

the day, adding colour to the historical display headers and cleaning up the display panels that had been kindly lent for the event by local schools. Many teachers and other staff gave up their Saturday to provide a much needed helping hand on the day, ensuring that the car parking was managed carefully and to answer questions about the school

today. A particular feature which completed the successful day and was enjoyed by all were the refreshments, served by school volunteers in the library, including two large 85th birthday cakes.

Many former pupils sent their memories to the school and organisers and provided the opportunity for a Memory

book of quotes to be on display. However, these memories included the less pleasant side of school life for some, as well as more enjoyable times such as the school plays, including Alice in Wonderland and the Pied Piper that were performed by various classes, the Christmas parties and the jumble sales. The photograph (opposite page top)

shows a group who performed the Pied Piper play in a wide range of costumes in the late 1960s

Identifying the Pied Piper rats was one of the tasks of the project – fortunately most were wearing the same recognisable tops as in other photographs of the play, which helped sort out who was who!

Left, Anthony McDermid, who moved to the USA more than 40 years ago, arrived on the morning of the reunion from his home in Oklahoma City.

Bottom right, Edna Shopland (1945), Ros Kendall (1938) and Philip Winter (1969) all remembered a happy school.

Top right, Ronald Laidler arrives with his son, Julian. ‘Are you sure he’s coming?’ and ‘Is he here yet?’ were heard in the hall, as former pupils waited for his arrival.

Peter Hiller (1935-41) meets Peter Sawyer, who left in 1939. Mr Hiller remembers desks with lids, an occasional caning but a wonderful atmosphere. He also recalled Mr Sawyer beating him in the 100 yards race!



filtonvoice20

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Bristol’s boules team, now known as Les Exiles Filton after they relocated to Alveston, could return to Filton if a plan - which would see the club maintaining the piste at Elm Park - comes to fruition.

At a meeting of the town council finance committee, Roger Hutchinson from the club said a membership scheme instead of ‘pay per play’ could attract players back to Filton.

The charging system caused uproar earler this year when it was revealed boules players were not paying in line with other sports.

Boules players argued that the sport was usually free to play in pubs, but the bar benefitted with players gathering after matches.

The meeting held that casual players from MoD no longer played at Filton as they could do so for free elsewhere.

At the town council meeting, Cllr Rikki Teml said that there should be a maximum period of six months to explore the options with the club before alternatives were considered.

Pamper nightA Christmas Shopping and Pamper Night along with an Auction will be held at Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol on Friday 9 November 2012, 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm.

The event is open to all, not just the ladies!

Organisers will be showcasing a fabulous variety of over 50 stalls, offering unique gifts and handmade items - perfect timing for the festive season.

Indulge in one of the pamper treatments, bid for something at the auction and enjoy a tipple at the bar!

Admission: £2.00 adults (over 16s), £1.00 School Years 5 - 13, Year 8s and under must be accompanied by an adult. No children under 9 will be admitted.

For further information email [email protected] or call 07866 392912.

Autumn fairSt Andrew’s Methodist Church, Elm Park, is holding an Autumn Fair on Saturday 3 November from 10 am. to 2 pm.

Stalls include handicrafts, toiletries, cakes, jams, chutneys, jewellery and gifts. The kitchen will provide light lunches and refreshments. Admission is 50p although children under 16 are free.

College numbers Staff and students at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College are celebrating another phenomenal year of recruitment at the newly merged College, formed by the merger of Stroud and Filton Colleges.

Last year the college delivered to over 4600 16-18 year olds across the region, an increase of over 900 full and part-time students.

This exceptional recruitment pattern has been consolidated with more students choosing to enrol on full time courses than at this time last year. The numbers are expected to grow even further as the College continues recruitment onto a

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Filton News in Briefvast array of part-time courses and employment preparation programmes, which are happening throughout the year.

With campuses across South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Stroud, the recently merged college has also seen an increase in success rates, which shows that the college remains one of the top 10% of high performing colleges in the country.

Core strategyFilton people are being invited to have their say on draft modifications to South Gloucestershire’s proposed district-wide planning blueprint, or Core Strategy.

The strategy was reviewed by an independent Government Inspector during June and July and in his preliminary findings, published last month, the Inspector endorsed the vast majority of the council’s proposals. However, he has also

made a number of modifications in order to make the strategy ‘sound’ and ready for adoption.

These include changes to the way in which land is released for housing development within the district, as well as changes to proposals for the expansion of The Mall at Cribbs Causeway.

The draft modifications can be viewed on the council’s website as well as in hard copy at the council’s One-Stop Shops in Thornbury, Yate, Kingswood and Patchway.

As the district’s main planning blueprint, the Core Strategy sets out South Gloucestershire’s overarching development vision until 2027.

The strategy’s proposals show how the council is planning positively for jobs, including the creation of a centre of aerospace excellence focused on the Filton Airfield site.

Full details of the consultation are available online at www.southglos.gov.uk/corestrategy

Quality Fresh Farm MeatsBangers & Burgers

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New Filton businesses aim to improve our wellbeingIn the past year, two Filton businesses have begun to make a name for themselves - and in turn, made many of us feel a lot better.

Johann’s Reiki, Holistic and Beauty therapy studio on Gloucester Road is also known as rejuvinateyourspirit.com and it does exactly that, with a variety of professional, complementary treatments.

McTimony Chriropractic, run by Ian Willmott, removes the traditional perception of the treatment as one which involves lots of ‘cracks’.

. Johann’sTreat yourself in Filton’s hidden healing room ‘Rejuvenateyourspririt’, run by Reiki Master, Holistic and Beauty therapist Johann Scantlebury, and located on Gloucester Road North with a mobile service is also available, each offering a friendly, high standard of

professional and complementary care.

All of Johann’s therapies benefit from the Reiki Energy through her hands, it’s gentle and non-intrusive and helpful for all ages. Reiki helps you re-balance energy levels, calms the mind, promotes deep relaxation and strengthens the immune system and much more.

Call Johann on 07971 682580 to find out more, or visit www.rejuvenateyourspirit.com

McTimoney Chiropractic It’s chiropractic, but not as you know it!

McTimoney Chiropractic has arrived in Filton but it’s not quite what you would expect.

One ‘crack’ and you’re on your way out the door!

If this is your idea of chiropractic, it’s time to think again. McTimoney chiropractic is a subtle, low force, technique based on treating the body as a whole (not the just the point of pain) and is now available here in Filton.

Treatments typically last between 30 and 45 minutes and comprise of chiropractic manipulation, soft tissue release (STR) and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) which, when combined, offer a full body treatment for both the joint structures and their associated muscles.

The technique is believed to be effective for back and neck pain, headaches, RSI’s, sports injuries and also in improving sports performance thus preventing injuries occurring in the first place.

For full details visit www.bristolchiropractor.co.uk or send an email to [email protected] or phone us on 07908 649609.

Advertising feature

See adverts on Pages 3 and 5

Filton Town Council meetings

• The leisure centre reception is open Monday to Friday 9am – 7.30pm and

weekends 9am – 5.30pm. Pop in and see us or ring on 01454 866686 for information.

October16th, 7.30p.m Planning Committee Small Meeting Room

30th, 7.30p.mFull Council Pavilion

November6th, 7.00pm Consultative Ctte (followed by Staffing Ctte), Small Meeting Room

13th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion

20th, 7.30p.m Planning Committee Small Meeting Room

27th, 7.30p.m Full Council Pavilion

December4th, 7.30p.m Finance Committee Pavilion

11th, 7.30p.mFull Council Pavilion

Meetings open to public other than consultative committee and staffing

Have your sayPublic meeting at Filton Hill School, Blenheim Drive

Monday, November 12, 6pmSouthern Brooks AGM followed by workshop

on Filton Town PlanAll welcome

Footie totsJoin us in a safe, fun and

learning environment for your child aged 3 – 4 years. The

sessions are ideal to discover the basics of passing, dribbling and shooting.

A great way for your child to develop their social skills in a

football setting.

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6th November – 11th December

2.00pm – 2.45pm£27.00

OCTOBER HOLIDAY SESSION

Monday 29th October – 4.00pm – 4.45pm

£4.50Book at reception or call

01454 866686All courses coached by Mike

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the Year 2010

Holiday CampsIndoor and Outdoor Activities

for Children

Bouncy Castle, Soft Play, Den-Making,Imaginative Play, Team Games,

Sporting Activities, Swimming (over 8’s only) Nail & Face Painting, Arts &

Crafts

You mix, make and decorate your very own

Cup Cakes to take homeAre they yummy and truly

scrumptious?

Outdoor Pedal Go-Karts and Water Fun

A change of clothing, towel and the desire to get wet is a must!

(weather permitting)

Don’t forget it’s Halloween with some spooky surprises!

A day packed full of funPlease bring a packed lunch, drinks and suitable clothes for indoors and

outdoors.

Monday 29th, Tuesday 30th, Wednesday 31st October

Session 1 (9.00am – 12.30pm) Session 2 (12.30pm – 4.00pm)

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Fun for the kids at Filton Sports and Leisure Centre

Filton Sports and Leisure Centre

Swimming Lesson Spaces AvailableLearn to swim or improve your swimming Children and Adults

Get fit for Christmas Aqua Running

Thursdays 10am – 10.45am, adults 50+ 11am – 11.45am

Boot Camp every Monday & Friday on Elm Park playing fields 6–7pm

free cool down swim after

• Contact the town council office Tel: 01454 866 698;

Leisure Centre Tel: 01454 866686; or our website www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Consultation leads to support for community garden

Filton Town Council is encouraging all residents to participate in a consultation regarding the proposed enterprise area which may be developed on Filton Airfield if the proposed closure goes ahead.

South Gloucestershire Council would like to hear your views on the proposed boundary of the Filton Enterprise Area.

The council has decided that it would be appropriate to confirm the formal boundaries for each of the Enterprise Areas and where appropriate to consult on this with key stakeholders.

The boundaries of the enterprise areas were informally established at the time of the original designation of the enterprise areas, and the council feels that those for the Avonmouth / Severnside Enterprise Area and the Emersons Green Enterprise Area are sufficiently self-evident and self-contained as to not require any adjustment

or further consultation. However, for the reasons set out below the council is seeking views on the boundary of the Filton Enterprise Area before formal confirmation.

The Filton Enterprise AreaThe council is seeking views on whether

the Filton Enterprise Area should include the Cribbs Causeway area, as well as the proposed employment land on the airfield, and to the north and east of this, as originally proposed.

This option would enable any rates growth within the Cribbs Causeway area over the next 30 year to be added into the proposed city deal investment pot rather than being left outside this arrangement.

There may also be a benefit in having a broader range of commercial activity included within the enterprise area.

The alternative option would be to have a smaller boundary for the enterprise area, excluding Cribbs Causeway.

The pros and cons of each option will need to be assessed by the council at the end of the consultation process, taking account the views expressed by stakeholders.

To view the proposed boundary of the Filton Enterprise Area and to comment you can visit the consultation website:

https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/filtonEAboundary/consultationHome

Alternatively you can:• Email: [email protected]• Write to: FREEPOST RRZE-CTRG-

TJLJ, South Gloucestershire Council, Enterprise Area Consultation, Council Offices, Castle Street, Thornbury, Bristol, BS35 1HF

• Phone: 01454 868154

Have your say on airfield future

In favour of garden

Against garden

Forfunding

Against funding70 5 44 4

Do you support the community garden project? Do you support funding of the garden for community use?

Over the past couple of months, we have asked residents for their views on our community garden project. Here are the results:

Call 0117 377 0967 or 07882 639 711

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27

811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai 1 08/03/2012 15:36

811_A5L_EDGE_Refurb_234099.ai 1 08/03/2012 15:36

BAE and Airbus in merger talksBAE Systems and EADS, the parent company of Airbus, have begun talks about a possible merger.

The firms, which both have a major presence in Filton, have a long history of collaboration, and are currently partners in a number of important projects, including the Eurofighter and MBDA joint ventures.

Around 4,000 people are employed by Airbus in Filton while BAE Systems empl0ys around 700. The two companies said they were in discussions about a possible combination of the businesses.

The potential combination would create a world leading international aerospace, defence and security group with substantial centres of manufacturing and technology excellence in the UK, USA, France, Germany and Spain as

well as in Australia, India and Saudi Arabia.

In a joint statement, the companies said: “BAE Systems and EADS believe that the potential combination of the two businesses offers significant benefits for all stakeholders, over and above their individual business strategies, which both businesses continue to execute strongly.

“In particular, they believe that the combination of the two complementary businesses offers the opportunity of greater innovation, long term financial stability, and an extended market presence, which will enable them to compete even more effectively on the world stage.”

A spokesperson for BAE said: “The potential combination would create a world-class international aerospace, defence and security group with substantial centres of manufacturing and technology excellence in France, Germany, Spain, the UK and the USA.”

Any agreement on the terms of a potential combination will require approval by the Boards of both BAE Systems and EADS, and would be subject to, amongst other things, a number of governmental, regulatory and shareholder approvals.

There is no certainty at this stage that the discussions will ultimately lead to a transaction.

Both firms have made headlines recently over their Filton operations.

Airbus is building a new research and technology facility at its Pegasus House site while Filton Airfield, owned by BAE Systems, is due to be sold off by the end of the year for housing and industry.

Chamber of Trade dates Filton Chamber of Trade has announced meetings for the next few months.

They will meet on:• Tuesday 16 Oct 2012,

6.30pm-7.30pm• Tuesday 20 Nov 2012,

6.30pm-7.30pm• Tuesday 18 Dec 2012,

6.30pm-7.30pmTea and coffee from 6pm -

with a chance to network and chat with other local businesses.

Don’t forget to bring your business cards!

For our October meeting we will be in a new Filton business based venue, Vittles cafe at 25 Gloucester Road North, Bristol, BS7 0SQ ... opposite Blockbusters.

If you use Facebook, check out and “like” our page there and you can be kept up to date with future events there.

If you would like any more information on future events or The Filton Chamber of Trade, please contact our Communications Executive Jamie McGhee on 07803 007792.

Business news

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29

Filton-based Royal Mail employees have become TV stars by taking part in the BBC Two series The Choir: Sing While You Work.

The project involved Gareth Malone, the choirmaster and television presenter behind the hugely successful TV series The Choir and features choirs from key UK orgainsations including Royal Mail

Over the last few months Gareth has helped establish and nurture a choir made up of colleagues in the Bristol area, including postmen and women, drivers, warehouse staff, administrative staff and directors.

The programme introducing the Bristol Royal Mail choir attracted an audience of 3 million viewers followed by media and public praise for the group’s energy, commitment and vocal sound. The series is broadcast

on BBC Two at 9pm on Thursday nights and runs until 25 October.

Travelling across the country, Gareth sets out to create four unique choirs in four very different organisations which will then sing head to head in a contest to find his best workplace choir.

His last project where he put together a choir of military

wives from two army bases in Devon while their husbands were deployed to Afghanistan, scored a Christmas number one.

Logistics director Tim Barber, who sang in the bass section of the Royal Mail Choir, said Gareth was ‘inspiring’ and ‘very people oriented’, with ‘huge interest in the Royal Mail as an organisation’.

Tim, who has worked for Royal Mail for 30 years said: “The lesson for me is that barriers come down when you all pursue a common goal.

“I had never sung in public before except when doing karaoke and I think very few of the other choir members had before either.

“This was a different way of singing. It was a lot more technical than I had thought and that was the biggest challenge.

“What surprised me was how powerful a force we became, through our skills development and working together. Barriers that may have been there at first just disappeared because we were pursuing a common goal, to be the best we could be.

“Grades weren’t an issue, we challenged and critiqued each other openly, but always constructively because we all wanted the same thing.”

Choir delivers on national TVNews

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filtonvoice30

SantaSteam Specials

2012

www.avonvalleyrailway.orgTel: 0117 932 5538

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Filton fashion at Bristol Fashion WeekThere were five days of 18 catwalk fashion shows, beauty treatments and shopping and styling advice as Bristol Fashion Week returned to The Mall at Cribbs - a favourite with Filtonians.

There was a stylish combination of 18 catwalk fashion shows, pamper sessions and style advice, giving visitors the essential fashion insights of the new season trends and colours as well as the ultimate girly treat!

Fashion duo TV stylist Mark Heyes and celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barton presented the hour long shows, combining style advice, celebrity gossip and fashion knowledge.

The show took place in a large, custom-built hall outside the central downstairs entrance to The Mall.

This year, ladies were told party trousers were worth a look while Oriental, Wild West and French influences were also to the fore.

In a nod to the big TV hit of just now, 1920s ‘Downton Abbey’

looks were recreated with the Marks & Spencer, Clarks and Ernest Jones range.

In all Accessorize, Animal, Sole Trader, CC - Viyella, Austin Reed, Jones Bootmaker, John Lewis, Evans, Wallis, Burton,

Claire’s Accessories, Sunglass Hut, Toni & Guy, Timberland, Next Children, The Disney Store, Monsoon, River Island, Warehouse, Jack & Jones, Next and Lipsy were represented on the catwalk.

JLS charity gigThe Mall has confirmed its plans to host a charity concert in aid of Bristol charity Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal and support its campaign for a new Cardiac Hybrid Theatre at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

The concert, to take place at 6pm on Thursday 8th November, will aim to raise £20,000.

As well as treating fans to an exclusive set, JLS will be switching on the Christmas Lights and officially opening the new Winter Wonderland.

The Mall at Cribbs Causeway will be giving away 10,000 free tickets, in exchange for a minimum suggested donation of £2 per ticket to Wallace and Gromit’s Grand Appeal. Tickets will be available from The Mall’s Information Desk from Saturday 13th Oct until Thursday 8th November.



31

October: Winter lamb chops with rosemaryIngredients• Peeled potatoes

enough for 2• 4 lamb chops• 150g of mushrooms

chopped• 1 onion diced• 2 cloves of garlic• 1 sprig of rosemary• 3/4 pint of thick Bisto

gravy granules• 1/4 of a pint of red

wine.

Method• Brown off the lamb

chops in a pan then put to one side.

• In the same pan fry the onions until soft then add the mush-rooms and fry for a couple of minutes. Then put the chops back in the pan.

• Add the rosemary and garlic cloves. Pour in the red wine and leave to simmer for 2 minutes. Then add the gravy. Ensure the chops are completely covered.

• Put in the oven (temp 180) and cook for 30 to 45 minutes or until the chops are completely cooked through.

• For the mash, boil potatoes until soft enough to mash then add butter and milk. Mash until smooth. Serve immediately.

JLS charity gigThe Mall has confirmed its plans to host a charity concert in aid of Bristol charity Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal and support its campaign for a new Cardiac Hybrid Theatre at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

The concert, to take place at 6pm on Thursday 8th November, will aim to raise £20,000.

As well as treating fans to an exclusive set, JLS will be switching on the Christmas Lights and officially opening the new Winter Wonderland.

The Mall at Cribbs Causeway will be giving away 10,000 free tickets, in exchange for a minimum suggested donation of £2 per ticket to Wallace and Gromit’s Grand Appeal. Tickets will be available from The Mall’s Information Desk from Saturday 13th Oct until Thursday 8th November.

MILLHOUSE BUTCHERS

26 Gloucester Road North, Filton BS7 0SJ(Opposite Blockbusters) Tel: 0117 969 2065

Millhouse Family Butchers has been established since 1928. We are well respected and we sell only quality meat

• Homemade burgers and sausages• Free range woodland pigs• Fresh chicken, beef and local lamb• We can custom order whatever you want• Free range eggs and fresh organic veg boxes

COME AND VISIT US FOR GREAT FOOD AND GREAT SERVICE

Recipe with Adrian Cunliffe of Millhouse Butchers



filtonvoice32

Bristol Blinds

6 Church View, Filton, Bristol BS34 7BT

Call us on0117 979 1918

for a FREE quotation

We put others in

the shade

Opinion - the Ratepayers Arms pub

There has been a lot of comment concerning The Ratepayers, and its future. I agree with some of these comments, but feel that some views are wide of the mark. But the main concern to residents of Filton is the ongoing subsidised cost.

I have been a resident in Filton since 1972. I use the Ratepayers, attending the monthly charity quizzes (having been one of the “founding” teams), playing skittles through the winter, and for many, many years drinking there every other Wednesday (on alternate Wednesdays we walk to the Inn on The Green for the larger selection of real ale).

I recall that when the whole complex was first built, the original idea was that in time a bar would be built above the snooker room (but of course given the cost - it would also require a lift - this will never happen) with great views to the north across the fields. Given that the current and previous council members have inherited this facility, they should be given some credit for actually trying to make a go of it, with different ideas, but generally all doomed to failure. (Noting that one councillor who regularly comes in for criticism, Roger Hutchinson, regularly attends the Sunday night charity quizzes .... where are all the other councillors?)

In the early days, it was

clearly stated that the big screen (and TV) would only be used for showing sport, but now the TV seems to be on all the time, with nobody except the bar staff watching it, but to be fair, with little or no customers, they need something to do. But if we have requested that the volume be turned down, or the TV turned off, then with a quick canvass of those present, this is usually complied with.

There have been some reports about the poor attitude of the staff, but I don’t think it is any different to the vast majority of pubs. Indeed there have been, and still are, some very friendly staff (and it should be remembered that communication is a two way thing).

The whole complex, including the Ratepayers, is a bit of a hotchpotch since it has been developed bit by bit. If there was one common entrance to all the buildings (pool, sports,

fun hangar, bar, pavilion, etc) I’m sure that the Ratepayers would do better, even during the daytime. But without major capital investment, this cannot be changed.

There have been a number of ideas of physically turning the bar around to try to get some windows and hence daylight, which would be a big improvement. But again, the cost of this in the current climate means it will never happen.

In the early days, the Ratepayers was listed in the local CAMRA Good Beer Guide. This was entirely due to two people: John Lucena, the clerk to the council, and Doug the bar steward, who both liked real ale. The beer (real ale) was always good because unlike many subsequent bar staff, Doug drank the stuff. Lately, with dwindling customers, the number of hand pumps was reduced. (But just this week there were four real ales on offer, all of good quality, and some at reduced prices).

The main problem must be the location of the Ratepayers: it’s off the beaten track, and so will never attract any passing trade and has to compete for local customers. The competition is with a very large number of other hostelries in a relatively small area: Air Balloon, Concorde, Plough, Bulldog, King George, Filton & District Social Club (was the Ex Services), St Teresa’s club, and BAWA. The Horseshoe pub, and Galleon, have both closed, but it remains a surprise that so many others remain open.

So how can the Ratepayers survive? A question to which I don’t think anybody has the

answer. I guess it has to offer something “different” to the other local pubs: perhaps it can make itself into a “community” pub where people can go to meet and talk, and make a name for good beer again. Keep it simple, but do it well. Don’t try “gimmicks” (poker nights being one that I can recall).

On the need to continue to show sport on TV: I think this is essential. (What is the ongoing cost of SKY and ESPN?) But they need to consider those who do not want to watch sport, so keep the volume at a low level so people can still talk. And when there is no sport, either switch off the TVs, or turn off the sound and select subtitle option (I note that this happens in many pubs). The bar has a good quality large flat screen TV, but I don’t recall that this has received any publicity. I personally don’t like the fruit machine, quiz machine, and juke box. How often do these actually get used? How much income (profit) do they make?

Tidy up the notice boards . It currently looks like a “club” with tatty notices, rather than a decent tidy pub. All notices should have “take down” date.

There is perhaps one possible glimmer of light into the future. When the new Airbus offices open, there is potential to increase the lunchtime trade (but still competing against the other pubs). But it needs to publicise itself, and to make it attractive enough to convince customers to make the walk across.

Please don’t infer from the above that I want the Ratepayers to stay open whatever the cost. I’m a ratepayer and the precept we pay here in Filton is, and has been, and will continue to be, too high. But if it has to close, what is the fallout? I guess they would not get so many bookings for the sports hall for social functions without a drinks licence (witness the Community Association hall), the skittles teams would leave, there might be an impact on the football teams who would not have “refreshments” after games.

And just to finish, perhaps we ought to widen the discussion and look at all facilities that are subsidised by the Town Council.

Last month, Filton residents gave their views on the Ratepayers. Here, local man Del Miles - a regular of the pub - gives his opinion



33

Young children from Filton and surrounding areas have an exciting opportunity to spend their half term at a top sporting complex learning new skills, making new friends and being healthy.

The Bristol Academy of Sport has organised a variety fun camps all taking place at the WISE Campus, Stoke Gifford.

The football half term camp is for those ages 6-13, and takes place from Monday 29th to Wednesday 31st October. The price is just £10 per day or people can book all three days

for £25. For more information and to book your place please contact [email protected] or visit www.bristolacademywfc.co.uk.

Bristol Academy Flyers Basketball Club is holding a camp at the club’s home stadium, the WISE Campus Basketball Arena, Monday 29th to Wednesday 31st October.

Open to people aged 8-14, priced at £15 per day or participants can buy two days and get one free.

To book your place visit www.bristolacademyflyers.co.uk or

contact [email protected].

Interested in Table Tennis? For just £15 per day people of all ages can train Monday 29th, Tuesday 30th October and Thursday 1st November. The camp is open to all ages and all abilities. For more information please visit www.bristolacademytabletennis.co.uk or contact [email protected].

Athletics coach Andrea Lock will be holding camps for people aged 5-16, Tuesday 30th, Wednesday 31st October and

Thursday 1st November. For more information please visit www.filtoncollegeathletics.co.uk or contact [email protected].

Bristol Academy of Sport Netball Academy is holding half term camps Wednesday 31st October and Thursday 1st November.

The camp, open to people aged 8-13, costs £11 for one day or £16 for both days. For more information please visit www.filtoncollegenetball.co.uk or contact [email protected]

Sport

Super Mario backs local Filton footballersFilton barber Mario Parrinello, who runs The Filton Barber’s on Gloucester Road North, has shown his support for a local football team.

Mario has provided smart post-match polo shirts for squad members of Filton Athletic.

He met the squad before training at Elm Park this month and handed over the shirts to players and coaches.

Mario said: “I know some of the lads as they come in for a haircut and I was more than happy to help out our local team.”

Filton Athletic run two teams in the Suburban League and they are currently on the lookout for

a goalkeeper for their Division 1 side.

Last week, Filton Athletic Division 1 played Ridings High Reserves away with a brilliant win of 4-0, John Stephens with a

hat trick and Dean Patterson giv-ing the side a must needed win

The Reserves suffered a disappointing 2-1 reversal at the hands of St Annes when they met at Elm Park, above.

Half-term camps at Bristol Academy of Sport

October: The CloudWhat is the Cloud?You may have heard people talk about ‘the Cloud,’ but what is it? The easiest way to think about the Cloud is to think about storage of information on the internet rather than on your own computer. If you have an email service that is on the web, or you backup your computer to the internet, then this is in ‘the Cloud’.

In the past, internet speeds were not fast enough for us to have these kinds of services available, but now they are. You will start to see more and more services available online over the next few years.

You can even store and edit documents online using Microsoft or Google products. As more people have better mobile devices such as phones and tablets, they want immediate access to information wherever they are.

Most people see this is the way things are going. Whether you are at home, in a field or in the middle of a desert, you will have access to your emails, documents and photos.

If you would like more information, please contact us on 0117 969 8767 or visit us in our shop on the corner of Filton Ave and the A4174.

Advert on Page 11

Computer tips with Graham Simmonds of goto iT



filtonvoice34

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Filton Local History

This month, Jackie Sims of Filton Community History tells the fascinating story of Filton’s ‘Folk Centre’ ... and how its predecessor was the victim of growing numbers of cars on our roads

From Memorial Hall to

The War Memorial Hall, built as a memorial to the men of Filton who died in the First World War, was opened on 1st June, 1927, by the young Duchess of Beaufort with a golden key.

Inside the hall was a memorial plaque, listing the Filton men lost in action during the 1914-18 War. It was built on

land that was part of the Shield Laundry.

The tender for building had been £2,290, and a bank loan from the National Provincial Bank was still not cleared during the 1930s, even though fund-raising activities continued to take place.

In 1939 at the beginning of

Cllr Harry Pilkington lays the foundation stone to Filton Folk Centre in October 1966. From Left Leslie Harris, Cllr Pilkington, Eric Smith, Mrs Pilkington and Sid Hunt.. Photo John Hutton.

The new Filton Community Hall, or Folk Centre as it is familiarly called, opened on 16th September, 1967. From Filton Library Collection. Photographer not known

Whooping coughI’m sure you have read that there is a whooping cough epidemic sweeping the country. In a normal year we have eight hundred cases in the UK. This year the total is already over 5,000.

For young babies it can be life threatening and because of this we are offering immunization all women over 28 weeks pregnant and to those who have just had a baby. For older children and adults it is a miserable illness but not dangerous.

The Chinese call it the 100 day cough. We call it whooping cough.

The two names together describe its key features; long fits of coughing that end with a deep ‘whooping’ intake of breath and which go on and on for months.

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Health Matters with Dr Liz Lee, Horfield Health Centre



35Filton Local History

WWII Gloucestershire County Council hired the building for Air Raid Precautions purposes, and then in 1940 it was rented by the Bristol Aeroplane Company (BAC) who needed space for the rapidly expanding workforce required to produce aircraft for the war. The rent from the BAC over four years paid off the outstanding loan.

From 1927 to 1940 the Memorial Hall had been a great centre for local events as well as regular activities, and it is still affectionately remembered by Filton residents.

When it reopened after the second war another memorial tablet was fixed inside the hall to commemorate the fallen of the 1939-45 war.

This was unveiled by the same Duchess of Beaufort.

In 1939 there had been aspirations for a second social hall, with demand increasing after the war. In 1954 the Filton Community Association were told that a site had been reserved for them at Elm Park.

But it was also in 1954 that the Trustees of the Memorial Hall received notice from the Ministry of Transport of the proposal to build the Link Road (A4174), right through the middle of their site. There had been proposals as early as 1927 to build an outer ring road around Bristol but it was no more than a proposal. That proposal was about to become a reality.

The last function to be held in the War Memorial Hall was a Farewell Supper held on 25th September 1961. The hall was pulled down in October 1962 and compensation of £14,832.15.0d paid. This was invested and helped to pay for the ambitious new Folk Centre at Elm Park. Once again the residents of Filton worked hard to raise the extra funds needed to complete the building.

The Duchess of Beaufort again unveiled the two war memorial plaques, which had been brought from the Memorial Hall and are on the west wall of the main hall, right.

The building has been extended at the front with the Leslie Harris Suite built as a

Filton Folk Centre

Filton Memorial Hall about 1950 (Filton Library Collection. Photographer not known.) The traffic bollard, bottom left of the photo, was at the north side of the A38 junction with Southmead Road. The Hall would be about on the north side of the present A 4174 / A38 roundabout. Below, the community hall today.

Memorial photo Stan Sims

second storey on the one storey front of the 1967 building.

The Filton Folk Centre continues to provide valuable space for many different activities and events every day of the week. Dancing, bingo,

dog training, flower arranging, karate, Kung Fu, History, Pilates, Art, Short mat bowls, Camera Club and Keep Fit are some, with two large halls also providing space for events such as wedding receptions and concerts.

The Folk Centre is an important part of Filton’s life.

Information on Filton Memorial Hall and Filton Folk Centre from ‘Filton, Gloucestershire’ by Leslie Harris.



filtonvoice36Floral print

dress Apricot £29

... one year onIt’s been 12 months now since Filtonvoice hit the streets of our community.

In that time, we’ve covered everything from Nativity plays in our schools to arguments over a new bus shelter and we’ve had the Jubilee and Olympic torch celebrations as well.

We’ve tried to support local businesses and bring important matters to the attention of everyone living in Filton.

We may be in an era in which communication has never been easier, but just as we all buy our smartphones, laptops, tablet computers, and just as more of us are involved in Facebook, Twitter and other social media, the result is that many of us end up heading in different directions and information becomes very fragmented.

Our hope is that by having one news magazine for Filton we can have all (or most) of the news in the one place, for every resident so no one misses out.

Can we thank you for all your support over the past year and look forward to another great year here in Filton.

Richard CoulterEditor and publisher



37And the ‘Voice’ is getting louder!Filton is not alone in having its own ‘Voice’ publication.

Earlier this year, Keynshamvoice was launched by our commercial manager, Emma Cooper, and has gone from strength to strength, bringing the same mix of news, features and advertising to Keynsham.

Very soon, both publications will be launching new websites aimed at enhancing our ‘hyperlocal’ news coverage and also offering a superb platform for local businesses.

And we can also reveal that plans are in hand to launch more ‘Voice’ magazines, bringing even more communities their very own publication.

Watch this space for more details in the coming months.

Congratulations, the wedding date is set and now you are planning your perfect day. Did you know that wearing

your wedding ring on your left ring fi nger stems from an old belief that it contained a vein that connected to the heart, an edict that King Edward VI made offi cial during the 16th century?While tradition plays a huge part in weddings, from the ceremony to the outfi ts, it’s

also your day and there are so

many ways to make it unique and a true refl ection of you as a couple. Inside our eight-page Weddings supplement, you’ll fi nd information on many local services, from venues to videos. With so many options tochoose from, here are a few ideas to help you on yourjourney to the day of your dreams. The countdown be-gins...

Main photograph courtesy of First Avenue Photography.

September, 2012 September, 2012 Weddings

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The most popular destinations might be closer

than you think

Capturing the day in photos and on lm Finding a venue to re ect your style

Dressing for the big occasion Flowers, cakes, din-ing and more

www.keynshamvoice.co.uk

FREE EVERY MONTH for people and businesses in Keynsham & SaltfordSeptember, 2012 Issue 6

‘Designs must be changed’ Regeneration latest P2

Foraging with Heavenly Hedgerows, P42 |Gardening buys, P52

Charity: We need your vote! P4‘Confusion’ over traveller site P5Appeal as boy’s bike stolen P7Teen swimmer on Olympics P57

Inside

MP... p6Letters... p14What’s On.. p46Business of

the month.. p50Books... p53Property... p55Classifi eds p62

WeddingsEight-page guide inside

Back to school

Education and training P20-27

Youth Fest returns

Gearing up for festival P12



filtonvoice38Filton Airfield debate

Letter from Cllr Doug Daniels to David Cameron, Prime Minister

I am taking this opportunity

to write to you personally regarding the intention to close Filton’s Airfield runway at the end of this year.

As a Conservative member of Filton Town Council I have been centrally involved in efforts to save the runway from closure since I see it as a valuable asset to the town’s prominence in aerospace.

Being a former Rolls-Royce Senior Design Engineer I have, personally, yet to be convinced that this runway – one of the longest in the UK, most certainly the widest - has no perceivable future. It can accommodate the largest aircraft. The Super Jumbo – Airbus A380 – has no problems landing or taking off and poses little noise disturbance.

Owned by BAe Systems the runway was extended through the demolition of the nearby village of Charlton as a result of a compulsory purchase order. It served, I believe, as a Master Diversionary Runway lying directly under the main transatlantic route from Heathrow that could be used for an emergency landing.

Filton is situated at the hub of major road links – ie: M4 and M5 and has major hospitals close to it as well as direct train links to London and the North. It is surrounded by excellent hotels.

Airbus and Rolls-Royce are close at hand and Filton has become a prominent design centre for both these industries along with GKN at Avonmouth.

The growing necessity within the UK to cater for a considerable expansion in air travel has presented an urgent request for additional maintenance space, essential for airlines.

Most prefer to undertake this work close by ... if not exactly at... their operational bases. Filton

is well placed to undertake this work.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London – who I contacted regarding this - is equally of the opinion that airports are in dire need to offload this work to other areas thereby facilitating Airport expansion for passengers’ use.

As a long serving aero engineer I do thoroughly understand the difficulties that airlines face. I am surprised that the availability of Filton for this work has not been investigated further. BAe refer to it as “a sensitive issue” ... why, I wonder?

Filton town grew from its world-wide prominence in the field of aviation. To disassociate it from that aspect would, in my opinion, be a gross rejection of what it has achieved and could continue to achieve in the future.

Our fear is that the loss of the airfield will undermine the aviation inheritance and cause its gradual migration, possibly overseas.

The loss of the airfield also has national implications. What is now the heart of the British aviation industry will be removed and Britain could lose its “insurance policy” of the ability to independability produce or assemble entire aircraft in the future. This could only be

In these letters contributed to Filtonvoice, two local politicians give views on why the fight to save the airfield must continue. In the first, Cllr Doug Daniels tells Prime Minister David Cameron that Filton could be used for aircraft maintenance while Martin Farmer, a parish councillor in Oldland Common, says Bristol’s about-to-be elected mayor should have a say in the site’s future

assured with vast investment in replacement facilities and skills.

To take away the runway and use the site for a monolithic housing complex mixed with light industry takes away its exemplary achievements over 100 years created from a remarkable vision by its founder ... Sir George White.

Bristol’s Airport at Lulsgate cannot accept the large aircraft of the Airbus range. I see that as a major drawback to an expanding city which I know that you yourself, Prime Minister, will recognise as of substantial commercial importance.

Throughout July and August I have been able to express these views to Paul Crystall – the Inspector commissioned by HM Government to consider the Core Strategy exercise undertaken to define the development of the region by South Gloucestershire Council for the next 15 or so years.

Throughout the whole of this enquiry a strong emphasis was placed on the runway’s replacement with housing. In an area that cannot cope with what it already possesses the whole idea of swamping it with housing – 2,500 to possibly 4,000 houses – is utterly contemptible.

It has generated discontent

over a wide area. Many view it as entirely wrong.

I accept the fact that affordable housing has to be provided for an increasing population. But surely it should be fairly distributed in areas that can cope. I have no adverse issue with that. The intention to carve up this long-standing runway and with it much of the airfield is being regarded as “Vandalism” by some. This quantity of housing would suffocate the whole area that is struggling to cope with what it already possesses on its overstretched infrastructure – ie: roads etc.

I sincerely appeal to you, Prime Minister, at this late, and possibly final stage, to intervene in this issue. In conjunction with your newly appointed Secretary of State for Transport – Patrick McLoughin, MP – I ask you to please consider what the closure of this runway will cause.

I am moved to writing to you personally by the letters I have received from several residing quite a way from Filton. Some come from individuals operational in the field of aviation and from the Universities of London and Cambridge, equally so from members of Bristol City Council.



39

01454 888666 www.riversidebristol.co.ukSee website for membership offers

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for your first class*

Shape up this autumn! CLASS TIMETABLE 0630-0730 • Grenade Bootcamp 0715-0745 • Kettlebell Training 0930-1025 • Tums & Bums 1000-1030 • Spin 1030-1125 • Pilates 1135-1220 • Aqua (Beginners) 1730-1810 • Speed, Agility, Quickness 1815-1910 • Body Combat 1830-1915 • Spin 1915-2015 • Body Pump 2025-2130 • Pilates

TUESDAY0630-0700 • Pyramid Training 0930-1025 • Yoga 0930-1015 • Spin 1030-1130 • Zumba 1730-1810 • Kettlebell Training 1800-1830 • Spin 1815-1900 • Circuits 1835-1905 • Spin 1900-1945 • Tums & Bums 1900-1945 • Aqua 1945-2045 • Yoga • Devaki

WEDNESDAY0715-0745 • Spin 0930-1025 • Body Combat 1030-1125 • Stretch & Core 1145-1230 • Fit 4 Fun (Begin-ners) 1800-1845 • Spin 1800-1845 • SwimFit 1815-1910 • Body Pump 1830-1930 • Grenade Bootcamp 1915-2010 • Pilates

THURSDAY0715-0745 • Kettlebell Training 0930-1015 • Basic Aerobics 1030-1115 • Kettlebells 1030-1115 • Aqua 1800-1845 • Spin 1815-1900 • HIIT 1830-1930 • Outdoor Bootcamp 1900-1945 • Aqua 1930-2030 • Zumba

FRIDAY0715-0745 • Spin 0930-1025 • Body Combat 1030-1125 • Body Pump 1810-1905 • Body Pump

SATURDAY0930-1025 • Zumba 1030-1115 • Spin 1030-1115 • Junior Fit Club (9-15yrs)

SUNDAY1000-1055 • Body Combat 1100-1200 • Body Pump

NOTESPlease ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear and arrive in good time for your class.Book classes at reception or call 01454 888666. Members may book up to one week in advance.Non members welcome to all classes. £5.00 per class Book on the day of the class only.Junior Fit ClubChild member: free; Parent is a member but not child: £2.75; Neither parent nor child is a member: £3.75

Non members welcome

“A third runway at Heathrow would

generate wider economic benefits estimated at £7bn additional GDP per year....” so said Oxford Economic Forecasting (OEF) in a report published in 2006. If Boris Johnson gets his way then a third runway at Heathrow will not be built thereby handing on a golden platter the significant economic benefits mentioned by the OEF to Heathrow’s competitors at Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris.......but why not Bristol Airport?

With the huge prize on offer, Mayoral Candidate Marvin Rees (Labour) is in favour of developing Bristol Airport with Geoff Gollop (Conservative) favouring “controlled” expansion. It is perhaps ironic as North Somerset planners will make

the decision over whether there will (or will not) be development at the Airport and not any future Bristol Mayor. Bristol does not have the say over a key Airport asset that helps bring prosperity to the City......and there lies the real problem.

In another example, the planning debacle at Filton Airfield saw a decision by the Tory led South Gloucestershire Council to change the use of the Airfield. This was driven more by the Council’s rural interests than by the benefits of developing Filton into a wealth creating cargo/ business airport for Bristol. With this in mind, in order to be truly effective and be able to influence its own future a Greater Bristol

Authority is urgently needed. A Greater Bristol should include the constituencies of Kingswood, Filton & Bradley Stoke and why not take in the part of North Somerset which includes

Lulsgate. Bristol would then

have the freedom to grow, make positive decisions about its airfields, and not be suffocated by neighbouring councils who are working to

their rural objectives. A Greater Bristol, led by a Mayor with entrepreneurial foresight, could then capture part of the £7bn that Boris Johnson wants to give away.

Martin Farmer is a Labour Councillor on Oldland Parish Council, South Gloucestershire and has worked in aerospace for over 30 years.

All view the intended closure of the runway as the loss of a National asset. They do not accept the view of BAe Systems that the “runway has no future.” The lucrative offers of housing developers has tended to overshadow the importance of this runway to the country. Once lost it could never again be replaced in the South West.

It is far and above a political issue. It cannot be resolved by a mere stroke of a pen. It requires a careful understanding of the long-term possibilities. I recommend therefore that its intended closure be reconsidered. Its intended closure at the end of 2012 should be halted to give additional time for a re-appraisal during a predicted revival of the economic position. Then, and only then, can we be assured that every possible use of this runway – and airfield – has been correctly considered.

“A Greater Bristol should include the constituencies of Kingswood, Filton & Bradley Stoke and why not take in the part of North Somerset which includes Lulsgate. “

Filton Airfield debate



filtonvoice40

Applicationsl 14 Elm Park, Filton Erection of 1 semi detached dwelling with new access and associated works l 85 Gloucester Road North, Filton Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation

l 87 Gloucester Road North, Filton Change of use from Residential (Class C3) to part Guest House (Class C1) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). Erection of single storey rear extension with parking and associated works. (Amendment to previously approved scheme PT10/1432/F). l 873 Filton Avenue, Filton Erection of 1 attached dwelling with associated works. Erection of two storey rear extension to existing dwelling to form additional living accommodation.

l 69 Gloucester Road North, Filton Erection of 1 dwelling with double bay garage and associated works.

Decisionsl 44 Northville Road, Filton Erection of rear conservatory

Approve with Conditions

l 25 Rannoch Road Filton Erection of two storey side exten-sion to form additional living accommodation (Re submission of PT12/1574/F)


l 10 Ferndale Road Northville Erection of two storey side and single storey rear extension to

form garage and additional living accommodation.


l 33 Branksome Drive Filton Demolition of existing garage and erection of 1 detached garage.


l 63 Northville Road North-ville Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.


l 12 Clyde Grove Filton Park Erection of single storey side and rear extension to provide ad-ditional living accommodation. Consent to extend time limit im-plementation for PT09/1242/F.


l 41 Kenmore Crescent, Filton Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.


l 642 Southmead Road Filton Erection of single storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation.


l Former Woolworth Building Abbey Wood Retail Park Station Road Filton South Gloucestershire BS34 7JLPart demolition of rear of exist-ing Class A1 unit (Southern ter-race) to facilitate construction of new service yard and adaptation of building to single unit. Con-struction of new mezzanine floor. Recladding and remodelling of front elevation to facilitate new shop front.

Withdrawn

Filton planning applications and decisions, September

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It’s October, the month when the clocks change. There are many other changes in October ... the leaves continue to change colour, the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder.

In my family there is so much change in October. My mother has turned 78, I have turned 56, my sister 55 and my grandson one!

It is said: “Change is the one constant thing.” People grow, people are born and people die. Some change is joyful like the birth of a child, admission to university, a new job, buying your own home etc.

However some change is sad and even painful like

the death of a loved one, redundancy or the breakup of a relationship.

In the midst of constant change, there is one thing more constant than change and for me it is the existence of God, the One who never changes and is constantly dependable and reliable.

The hymn writer Henry Lyte has left for us all the prayer: “Abide with me ... O Thou who changest not abide with Me.”

His hymn is inspired by the knowledge that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever and that He promises He’ll never leave us or abandon us. (Hebrews 13)

In a world of ever constant change, some good, some bad I find it uplifting and reassuring that God is Love and His love is unchanging

Thought for the monthwith Rev Oluyemisi Jaiyesimi of St Andrew’s in Filton

Wanted: Youth centre treasurerSt Andrews Methodist Youth Centre has a voluntary position on its management committee for a Treasurer.

If you have some basic experience of using Sage and have a couple of hours a week to spare, please contact Debbie at the office on 0117 9691938 or [email protected] if you are interested in finding out more about how you can help your local youth centre with this vital role!



41

We want people who celebrate Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night to have fun and for those who don’t make these occasions to feel safe.

Previously this was one of our busiest times of the year, but we’ve worked hard to let people know of when ‘trick or treating’ crosses the line into anti-social behaviour and tackled troublemakers. The team visits schools to give advice on safe trick or treating and offers support to more vulnerable members of the community.

We’ve seen a steady reduction in problems since 2007 and hope that will continue. Of course, we’ll still take action against the selfish minority who commit criminal damage or other anti-social acts.

Here’s our guide for a safe and happy Halloween and Bonfire Night:

Trick or treaters • Stay in a group• Tell someone where you are

going, who with and when you’ll be back

• Make sure you can be seen – wear something bright or reflective

• Respect other people’s property

• Don’t call on homes showing a ‘sorry no trick or treat’ poster

• Don’t go into strangers’ homes

Parents • Supervise younger children• Remind teenagers to

respect others• Encourage children to call

only on their friends• Make sure you know where

they’re going, who with and when they’ll be back

Shopkeepers Don’t sell eggs and flour to

young people and remember, selling fireworks to under-18s is an offence

Householders If you don’t want trick or

treaters to call, contact us or check www.avonandsomerset.police.uk nearer the time for a ‘Sorry no trick or treat’ poster.

Fireworks and the law • It is illegal for an under-18

to have a firework in a public place (Fireworks Act 2003)

• It is illegal to throw a firework in a public place (Explosives Act 1875)

Contact the Filton team: • Call Filton police station

on 101• E-mail: ssn.filton@

avonandsomerset.police.uk• Make an appointment to

meet an officer by phone or e-mail

• Go to www.avonandsomerset.police.uk – you can report crime, find local policing information and more

• Call into Filton police station, Gloucester Road North. It’s open 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (closed 11.45am-midday), and midday to 8pm Wednesday and Friday (closed 4.15-5pm).

In an emergency, call 999. Otherwise call 101 24/7.

Filton beat with Sgt Steve Ives

Announcing the New look Hilton Bristol Hotel!We are delighted to share with you some big changes to our hotel

Brunel’s Hat Restaurant is now open for business with a brand new look and a brand new a la carte menu. On offer are classic British dishes with a contemporary twist - why not try Devilled Mackerel Fillet With an Orange & Fennel Salad or Duo of Beef with Fillet & Oxtail Pasty, Horseradish Mash & Wild Mushroom Sauce and to finish a refreshing Lemon Posset.

Our lounge has always been a favourite place to meet but with its new makeover we think it will be more popular than ever. Take a seat, order a Costa Coffee, relax in comfortable armchairs or get to work with free WIFI via BT WIFI. With 234 spaces on site, car parking is easy and free for the first 2 hours

WOODLANDS LANE, BRADLEY STOKE, BRISTOL, BS32 4JF

Email: [email protected]: 01454 201 144

www.hilton.com/bristol

Offering 9 function rooms catering for 2-200 guests for meetings and events.



filtonvoice42

A Knit and Natter club from Hanover Housing Association has knitted hundreds of poppies for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Knitted Poppies have become a real hit with the Legion as they have helped to raise thousands of pounds for the appeal locally.

Hanover residents Christina Clarke and Ceri Heyward-Shapcott from Filton have been knitting for months for the appeal and handed over 130

poppies to the Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion.

Christina said: “I have really enjoyed the project and happy that our efforts benefit such a worthy cause”

Resident from Filton invited Hanover Estates from all over the country to join the appeal and donate their poppies

Ninety three year old Ada Smith, from Hanover Court, Peterborough took up the

challenge and managed to knit 180 beautiful poppies.

On Monday 24th September Brian Hewitt MBE and Chairman of the Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion came along to Hanover Court in Filton to collect the 310 poppies.

He said: “Our grateful thanks to Lindsay, to the Lady Knitters, Christina and Ceri and to Wally Froud, for his kind donation of wool.

“You are a great team.”

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Show your support to win your way to Wembley Football fans from Filton are being offered the chance to cheer on their team in the Football League play-off finals at Wembley while helping the fight against prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer UK has 15 pairs of tickets up for grabs for the npower Championship, npower League 1 and npower League 2 play-offs, and the VIP experience will include a pre-game tour of Wembley Stadium.

Former England striker Les Ferdinand is urging supporters to get behind their team – which could be Bristol City in the Championship or Bristol Rovers in League 2 – and said: “The more people who back their team, the more money will be raised to help Prostate Cancer UK support men with the disease, provide vital information and find answers by funding research into causes and treatments.”

All fans have to do to enter the Road to Wembley competition is text FI and the name of their Football League team to 82772.

Texts cost £3 plus the standard network fee and at least half of the fee will go to Prostate Cancer UK. Participants can only win if their team is one of the six Football League Clubs reaching the play-off finals at Wembley stadium (i.e. two clubs from The Championship, two from Division 1, two from Division 2).

Visit prostatecanceruk.org/football to find out more information.

News

Filton knitters create poppies for appeal



43

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A painting of a Spitfire by the Vice Chairman of the Stoke Gifford Branch of the Royal British Legion, Brian Wheeler, has raised nearly £650 for the Legion’s Poppy Appeal.

Two years ago a painting by Brian Wheeler of a Poppy raised over £430.

The painting was won by Veronica Feaver from Lockleaze and was presented by branch chairman Brian Hewitt and Joint Poppy Organiser, John Moloney.

This has helped to bring the multi-award winning Stoke Gifford Branch’s total for the current year, (which runs from 1st October 2011 to 30th September 2012) to over £37,500 an increase of over 20% on last year’s Branch record of £30,500.

For the 2010/11 year the Branch won the county’s Marling Cup for most improved branch, and the Branch’s Poppy Appeal organiser Terry Webber won third place in the Williams Cup. The Branch covers Bradley Stoke, Filton, Little Stoke and Stoke Gifford.

Branch spokesman David

Bell said “ We are very grateful to the public for their great generosity in helping to raise so much for the Poppy Appeal which goes to help fund the legion’s welfare work.

“Our sucess is also due to the many venues which allow us to collect for the appeal and our great team of volunteers.

“The media do a great job

helping us to publicise our work which helps the Legion’s efforts.”

If you would like to volunteer to help the Legion in its work, please contact the branch’s Poppy Appeal organiser Terry Webber on 0117 909 1486 or your local Branch. The legion supports Serving and Ex-Serving Members of HM Forces and their Dependants, who are in need.

The Poppy appeal is the largest military welfare charity in the country, distributing £1.7 million every week supporting current and ex service personnel and their families, so it needs to continue raising funds.

The Stoke Gifford Branch has a very strong welfare team of four caseworkers.

If you know anyone who may need the support of the Legion please contact Welfare Chairman Terry Webber on 0117 909 1486 or Branch Chairman Brian Hewitt on 01454 775632.

Spitfire painting raises £450News



filtonvoice44What’s on in Filton on a regular basisMondaysDinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 9.30am-10.30am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure CentreTea Dance, Filton Folk Centre, 1.45pm-3.45pm 0117 302 6981

TuesdaysFilton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Tuesday afternoons. Contact the library to book a session. 9.30am - 1.30pm NOTE TIME CHANGEPre-School story and Rhyme time Tuesdays 9.30am, Filton Library, Shields Centre,Aqua fit Tuesdays, 9.45 – 10.30am & 8.30 - 9.15pm, cost £4 a session, class suitable for non swimmers, participants must be 16 yrs and over, Filton Sports and Leisure CentreKeep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre 2-3pm Call 0117 969 3326

WednesdaysFilton Garden Club, St Teresa’s Social Club, 7.30pm. 1st Wednesday of every month, 0117 975 9126. Not January.Filton Camera Club, 7.30 p.m, on alternate Wednesdays (except June, July and August) at Filton Community Centre, Elm Park. For details, contact Brian Frost on 0117 9651242, [email protected],

Work club: St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS , 2-4.30pm: Drop-in session, Open to all who want some ad-vice / guidance looking for work!Get support with CV writing, filling in job aplications, job searching, interview techniques/practise, volunteering place-ments, and finding local courses to get more qualifications!

ThursdaysGoldies meets in Filton “Singing for Fun”, songs from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. Every Thursday 10.30am-11.30am In Sinclair House community room (next to the police station). £1 donation to the Goldies charity. For further information contact

[email protected] or call 01761-470006

Bristol Male Voice Choir, weekly practice at South Gloucestershire and Stroud College, Filton Avenue, 7.15 pm. Potential new members very welcome. Call 0117 9424378.”

Filton WI, monthly meetings, 1st Thursday of every month, Newleaze House, Filton, call 0117 330 6071Knitting Group 5.45 pm – 6.45pm Thursdays, Filton Library, Shields CentreDinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am-11am. These sessions are first come, first served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time onlyTiddlers and toddlers playgroup, St Peter’s Church Hall, 10am-noon, term time onlyFilton Ladies, St Andrew’s Church, 2pm-4pm, new members welcome, call 0117 969 1825Keep Fit Association classes, all welcome, Filton Community Centre, 8-9pm 0117 969 3326Silver surfers: St Andrews Meth-odist Youth Centre, Elm Park, BS34 7PS, 10am-noon (note we’ve changed from Fridays!) Drop-in for ‘silver-haired’ folk (over 50yrs) to get help with ac-cessing computers, the internet, mobile phone technology, digital cameras, and much more! Run by a dedicated team of friendly volunteers with Lisa at the helm, this supportive group is just as much a social session as it is about learning! Come and join us! Free to come along anytime, just 50p for a tea/coffee (and sometimes a biscuit!) This group does not run during August

FridaysDinky Dolphins, baby and pre-school swimming session, games music and play, 10am-11am. These sessions are first come, f irst served. £3.50 for 1 adults and up to two children, Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, term time only, term time onlyBingo, Filton Community Centre, 7.30pm

SaturdaysFilton Library, Shields Centre, free one to one IT tuition with our Computer Support Volunteers on Saturday mornings. Contact the library to book a session. A monthly Teen Reading group for those in years 7 – 9. Meets on a Saturday morning, Filton Library, Shields Centre.Monthly Chatterbooks reading group for children in years 5 – 6. Meets on a Saturday afternoon, Filton Library, Shields Centre, Filton, January 28St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Vigil Mass, 6pm

SundaysSt Peter’s Church, 8.00am Holy Eucharist; 10.00am Parish Eucharist with crèche and Sunday Club; Noon, Baptism (by appointment); 6.00pm Evening Worship (Choral Evensong on the 1st Sunday of each month)’.St Teresa’s Catholic Church, Morning Mass, 10.30am. Other masses visit www.stteresasfilton.org.uk St Andrew’s Church, Filton, 10.30am, Morning Worship; 6pm, Evening WorshipKids street dance classes(5 - 16 years of age), every Sunday @ Charborough Road Primary School, Filton, 5.15 - 6pm or 6 - 7pm (depending on age/ability), £3.50/£4.00 per session (pay as you go). Lots of fun, make new friends and very good exercise too!!Please phone Emma on 07725 612088 or email her at [email protected] for more information and to book your place.

St Andrews Methodist Youth Centre For young people:Mondays 6-9pm Towards Independence Awards for 16-25 year olds with mild learning difficulties and autistic spectrum disorder. A range of accreditted awards to improve their independence skills and also make new friends! Various modules available as 6-12 week courses, £10 for one course or £15 for two. Contact the office for information!Tuesdays 7-9pm Youth club for

Secondary School Year 7 and 8s (11-13yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offerWednesdays 5.45-6.30pm (term-time) Street dance sessions! £2 per session for 9-14year olds! Bring a drink as you’ll get hot and sweaty!!Wednesdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Year 9-13 (13-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun activities on offer!Thursdays 7-9.30pm Youth club for Secondary School Years 10+ (14yrs - up to 25yrs for those with learning difficulties). £1 entry - a range of activities on offer!NEW!! Fridays 6.30-8.30pm Girls’ Night! For Secondary School Years 7-13 (11-19yrs) £1 entry - a range of fun and interesting activities on offer just for young women!Fun football sessions are on at Elm Park courts 6.30-8pm for 11-14year olds, £1 per week - football skills and matches, looking to get teams together to play against other youth centresThe youth club programme has a range of activities including sports, arts/crafts, roller skating, quizzes, computers, games, Wii, karaoke, and cooking. We’re also a C-card access point for condoms! Also tuck shop and pool tables available at subsidised rates! We also do lots of trips and weekends away! Contact the office for holiday times as we usually change the programme during holidays to do more trips! Contact us at 0117 9691938 or [email protected]

Pyramid Youth ClubMondays: 6.30-8pm: Inters 10-12 yrs. activities include football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activi-ties include circuit training, foot-ball, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members)Tuesdays: 6.30-7.30: Junior Judo 5-12 yrs; 7.30-9pm: Senior Judo 13+, £2.50 children/students, £3 adultsWednesday: Occasional events in or out of Club.Thursdays: 6.30-7.45: Juniors 5-9 yrs, activities include games,



45

What’s coming up in FiltonWed, 17th Oct Filton Library: Talk on the Life of Harry Stoke Colliery, 7.30pm-9pm, booking required

Sat, 20th OctFilton Community Centre, 9am - 2pm: Ultimate Dance Challenge for Save the Children. 5 hour sponsored dance, contact Debbie on 0117 9691938 or [email protected] for more details and to get registered! l Filton Library: Family History 1:1. Find out more about researching family tree. Booking required

Sat, 3rd Nov St Andrews Methodist Church, Elm Park, are holding an Autumn Fair on Saturday 3 November from 10 am. to 2pm. Stalls include handicrafts, toiletries, cakes, jams, chutneys,

jewellery and gifts. The kitchen will provide light lunches and refreshments. Admission is 50p although children under 16 are free.

Filton Library: Baked Teenz: Teen reading group, 10.30am - 11.30am

Tues, 6th Nov Filton Library: Volunteer Bureau drop in session. For those who are interested in volunteering opportunities, from 10am - 12pm

Wed, 7th Nov and Tues 13th NovOpen day at Filton Hill Primary, Wednesday 7th November at 9:30 am and Tuesday 13th November at 1:30 pm

Fri, 9th Nov A Christmas Shopping and

computers, cookery, tuck shop. 8pm-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include DJing, football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop, Subs £1 (50p members)Friday: 7.30-10pm: Seniors 13+, activities include music (drums, guitar, keyboard), football, basketball and other sports, pool, table tennis, computers, cookery and craft, tuck shop. Subs £1

(50p members). Including DJing music mixing, vocal skillsBased at 470 Filton Avenue, contact Margaret Morris 0117 9691315

Filton Community Centre 983 6500Mondays: Tea dance, 1.45-3.45, call 302 6981. Zumba fitness class, 6.30-7.30Tuesdays: Keep fit, 2-4pm, 969 3326; Flower arranging, 2-4pm,

01454 412 087; Dog training, 7-9pm, 01454 616630; Pilates, 7-9pm, 502 2411; AA, 7.30-9.30; Cacti club (3rd Tues), call 950 3604Wednesdays: Pilates, 10-12; Dawn James Art, 962 2982; Camera Club, 7.30-9.30, alternate weeks, call 965 1242 for details; Strictly Ballroom, 907 6960; Historical Club (4th Wed), 7.30-9.30, 969 2025Thursdays: Short mat bowls,

2-4pm, 969 2025; Line dancing, 7.30-9.30, 07792 456988; Flower arranging, 7.30-9.30, 01454 412087; AA, 07831 338085; Keep fit, 8-9pm, 969 3326Fridays: Bingo, 7.30-9.30, 9690311; Karate, 6-8pm, 07982 720158Saturdays: Kung Fu, 07759 583688; Sundays: Karate, 10.30-noon, 07982 720 158; New Pastures Ministry, 07786 271 33

Pamper Night along with an Auction will be held at Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol on Friday 9 November 2012, 7.00 pm - 9.30 pm.

Sat, 10th Nov Filton Library: Chatterbooks: children’s reading group, 2.30pm – 3.30pm

l 3-6pm: St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre Open Day. Come and look around, find out what the Youth Centre does, see some of our young people display their talents and receive awards for their work.

Mon, 12th NovSouthern Brooks Annual General Meeting on Monday 12th November from 6.30 – 8.30pm at Filton Hill Primary School

Sat, 24th Nov Filton Library: Underwater Adventure: crafts and stories for

children aged 3-10, 2.30pm – 3.30pm

Sat, 1st DecCharborough Road primary Christmas Bazaar,10.30-1.00. Come and see Father Christmas in our fabulous grotto. Fun and games for all the family. Face painting, Craft, Tombola and all the usual favourites. Grand raffle with great prizes. Refreshments available. 50p entry.

Sat, 8th Dec11am-2pm: St Andrew’s Methodist Youth Centre’s Christmas Fayre! 50p entry for over 16s: includes lots of fun and games, raffle, various stalls, refreshments and Santa’s Grotto for just £1.50!

WeekdaysCoffee shop, 9am – 12:30pm,St Peter’s Church, Filton

Town councilSee Page 24

Self-assessment, Consultancy, All Accounts, CIS, CT, PAYE, VAT, Ltd Co’s, Repayments,

Online submissions.Act early as penalties have increased

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Telephone Martin Green on07970 031095 or 01454 203710 ANYTIME

Bristol Opera’s Musical Director, Arne Kovac, is celebrating his 40th birthday by sharing his favourite opera with you and us! Bristol Opera is presenting a spectacular concert performance of Beethoven’s Fidelio with full orchestra, big chorus and excellent soloists. Tickets are £16/£14/£10 and £7, students and under 18s £5Bristol Opera Box Office: 0117 932 4525



filtonvoice46

50th anniversary party for St Peter’s Wives’ Group

News

Bristol Poetry FestivalFor the last 17 years, Bristol has been home to Poetry Can, a registered charity aiming to encourage as many people as possible in the South West to get involved in poetry.

One of the main ways in which it supports its development is through the twice yearly Bristol Poetry Festival.

This year’s autumn instalment, which ran from 24th to 30th September, saw readings from such luminaries as Elaine Feinstein; Dennis O’Driscoll; the Director of National Poetry Day, Jo Bell; and locally connected poets Philip Gross, Matthew Barton, and winner of the National

Poetry Prize, Helen Dunmore. These were interspersed with

other events, such as Dennis O’Driscoll’s talk on his book of interviews with Seamus Heaney entitled ‘Stepping Stones’, an evening with the inspirational Benjamin Zephaniah, and ‘The Woman who Slept with Bones’ –

a collaboration between Bristol photographer Alison Wills and her poetic counterpart, Hazel Hammond.

You would be forgiven for thinking that poetry is not one of the more popular arts.

I’ve lost count of the number of times people have said, on hearing that I write the stuff, ‘Oh, I don’t get poetry’. Well, I’ve news for them – there is nothing to get. Just read or listen with an open mind.

A good poem communicates with both the conscious and the sub-conscious, and will leave some of the work for the reader’s imagination, often revealing itself gradually over days, months or even years.

As with songs, that appreciation will be very much coloured by the reader or listener’s own experience.

I haven’t yet mentioned the two poetry slams that happened during the festival, one of which I had the privilege of judging.

It does the soul good to see young people getting up and making music out of words, packing a punch or moving the audience to laughter or tears.

Thanks in no small part to Poetry Can and its director, Colin Brown, poetry is thriving in Bristol, and if you are aged between 5 and 125 and have ever thought about getting involved, there are a host of open mics and poetry events all year round where you will find a warm welcome and an attentive audience.

See you out there soon, I hope.

Deborah Harvey is a Filton poet and author.

Arts focus with Deborah Harvey

St Peter’s Wives Group in Filton have celebrated their 50th anniversary.

In 1962 Father Haslum, then Rector of St Peter’s started a group for ‘Young Wives’ with an affiliation to the Mother’s Union. Since that time members have met to enjoy talks, demonstrations, outings and above all fellowship.

Following a celebratory service in church last month, they were pleased to welcome former members at their birthday party especially Mr Nicol Blount, husband of the first leader, Daphne.

As in 1962, visitors and new members are always welcome! Contact Sheelagh on 0117 969 4992

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Filtonvoice October 2012

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