Support Needed!

This newsletter, like many others across the city, is in constant need of support – financially and of volunteers. If you, or your business would like to support the newsletter, in any way you can, either by giving your time to delivery or by advertising, please contact us.

If you would like to give us an article or your input for the next issue please send your email to
mariannapaf@hotmail.com or contact us before the 28th of February ‘09.

Competition

Send us pictures from our area.

The best one is going to be used as

a legend in the next issue!!

Submissions so far:
Charles Perry













Kelly Bullock

The Aldi Store on the former Swimming Pool site

An application for full planning permission was submitted by Aldi on August 18th with full supporting documents. The planning committee will sit on November 17th 2008.
Following the presentations made to the full Community Council and also to the SEARCH Group, the Futures Group met to consider how to respond to the application. There were three main strands to the discussion in the group. Clearly (and increasingly in these difficult times) a discount store with good quality and low prices would be welcome in the area. The location of the store is nearly 300 yards / 4 minutes walk from the centre of the existing shops and as Aldi will not stock newspapers, toiletries or cigarettes people will have to visit two areas on foot or by car / bus. The proposed building would have a significant impact by on the green area along Crow Lane. We need to ensure we enhance our green areas as they are a considerable value in our urban surroundings.
It was clear that opposing the application on the grounds that the proposed store was in the wrong place could lead to eventual refusal and the loss of any discount store in Henbury and Brentry. Thus the Futures Group resolved that we should support the application but press for significant improvement in local transport in Brentry and Henbury funded by Aldi, who of course would benefit from more customers being able to get to their store. This was the substance of our formal response to the planning department about the application. We welcome your comments on this issue on the website.
http://henburyandbrentrynewsletter.blogspot.com

Tim Parkinson
H&BCC Futures Group

Community Conference

The Henbury and Brentry Community Council Conference took place on Saturday 28th June at Wesley College. There were four workshops:
1. Safety and the Environment
2. The Built Environment
3. Young People
4. Older People
65 people attended the Conference and a full report will be made available shortly.

Fun Day

The third fun day on Barnards Park, Crow Lane was opened this year by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress at midday on Saturday 30th August. They spent an hour walking around Barnards Park talking to local people and agencies. Once again the weather was good after such an awful summer. The road show was fantastic, which was provided by one of our resident’s son and made the fun day go with a swing.
The inflatable gladiators arena proved challenging for some as did the inflatable human table football. As well as the bouncy castle we also had a children’s roundabout and there were more stalls. We had an art & play workshop for children and young people, which was powered entirely by a bicycle and the circus entertainer also proved to be very popular as did the face painting. There ware not nearly enough wet sponges thrown at PCSO Abby Elliott-Taylor and PC Nick Merrick, so don’t be shy next year.

Henbury Community Council and Events Group members raised over £600 on the raffle: well done! Thank you to the traders who donated prizes for the raffle. Also thank you to the volunteers of St John’s Ambulance who fortunately did not have to be called upon for first aid.
Thank you to everyone who made the fun day a great success once again.

Summer Activities 2008

Henbury Area Holiday Activities (HA-HA) offered a wide range of things to do this Summer across Henbury and Brentry including day trips all over the South West, from catching 20lb common carp and 16lb conger eels and climbing the highest mountain in the UK.
The Big Idea Theatre School started the season, led by Debbie Stewart drama teacher at Henbury School. The week-long summer school was open to all to experience new things and make new friends. The week concluded with a show for parents and friends.
Perhaps the most challenging activity had to be The Henbury School Trust Ben Nevis Challenge 2008. Departing early Tuesday 12th August, twenty students from Henbury School set off to Fort William, Scotland to take part in five days of trips to local sites of interest, playing team games in the evening, fishing for crabs from Loch Linnhe as well as the serious business of climbing Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the UK. Ben Nevis claims climber's and walker's lives every year but with the expert knowledge of Chuck and Guy our guides from Ice Mountain we made it to the top. It was only one of a handful of days this year that the summit had a 360° clear view of the breathtaking countryside below.
Each student returned to the start, veteran of a monumental day, full of stories about the climb and all agreed that the experience would be hard to beat. Many thanks to all involved, to the participants and to the people who supported us through sponsorship.
We are in the process of planning next year’s challenge which will be revealed in December.
All too soon the summer came to an end, it’s back to school for another year.

Unsung Heroes

“We Music Kidz at Emmanuel Chapel would like to say a big thank-you to Ruth Moss for all the work she's put into the group for the last five years. The group provides music and fun for the under fives on Thursday mornings.
Ruth often puts in a lot of extra work at home making foam figures and sorting out the songs.
Many of you would know Ruth from jointly running the local Brownie group, again for the last five years and being a classroom helper at Blaise school for the last eight years. Ruth has now obtained the job of Teachers Assistant at the same school and we wish her all the best. She will certainly be missed at Music Kidz.” Nikki Furst

Parenting can be fun (SFSC programme)

Join us on the FREE Parenting programme, “Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities” (SFSC), a 13 weeks course which started on Nov 5th at Henbury Court Children’s Centre.
This is a fantastic opportunity for parents to meet other parents in the community, to share experiences, learn and develop new skills/ideas to manage your child’s behaviour, find out which agencies can offer extra support, not feel alone and to have fun!!
The programme covers several key areas including:
· PARENT/CHILD RELATIONSHIPS
· ETHNIC AND CULTURAL ROOTS OF FAMILIES
· PARENT TEACHING
· FAMILY AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
· MODELLING POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR
· CHILDHOOD CHARACTERISTICS
· HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Interested?
We look forward to meeting you at the new Henbury Court Children’s Centre, at Henbury Court Primary School, Trevelyan Way, every Wednesday, 9.30am-12.30pm,
FREE crèche and breakfast provided.
To find out more, please contact Emma Thomas 9030134 or Sue Hext 9030162 at Henbury School.

What's on at Henbury Library?

For Adults

Reminiscence Day on Thursday 20th November

How much do you know about Henbury & Brentry? Take part in our reminiscence quiz!
Do you have any old photographs/newspaper cuttings/stories you would like to share?
Join us for tea and a chat - and take a look at our photo archives, old maps and other historical documents.

Want a bite sized book? Try one of our Quick Reads - short, exciting books by bestselling authors and celebrities for adults who are new to reading, have lost the reading habit, or who prefer a quick read.
Quick Reads are both fiction and nonfiction and include the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Colin Jackson, Josephine Cox and a new Dr Who story.

Not much of a reader? Start now with our Six Book Challenge in association with Costa Coffee. The Six Book Challenge invites people to read six books and record their reading in a diary in order to receive a certificate to celebrate their achievement - you'll also be entered into a prize draw!
"I never thought I could read one book, never mind six! I feel so proud. I've never felt so good about myself. I feel like I can do anything now." Noleen Vine, 2008 Challenge completer, Warrington.

For Children

Rockin' Babies every Monday 10.30 til 11 - Singing, rhyming, clap-along fun for babies and toddlers aged from 6 months to 2 1/2 years.

Join in with stories and crafts every Tuesday 10 til 10.30 at our Pre-School story time and craft sessions.

In Year 7? Want some Homework help? Come to our weekly Homework Club on Tuesdays 3.30 til 4.30 with free computer access and printing.
We don't just read, we write too! The 7-11's monthly story group meets on the 3rd Saturday at 11.30 every month. Each month we have a theme; sometimes we work together or separately and we also use the computers. Even better we have our own special 'soap' set in Henbury and we add to the story each meeting. We have even produced a book of fantastic adventures. Come and join us if you have a story to tell.

Help HA-HA!

Henbury Area Holiday Activities (HA-HA) is a holiday play and activity scheme for children in Henbury and Brentry. It has been operating successfully since 1994, and boasts a strong balance sheet and meets all it's obligations to Ofsted.

It provides creative play through dedicated professional play workers, with strong policies in place to ensure the safety of participants. HA-HA aims to pay salaries to workers comparable to or better than similar schemes across the city.

Currently, there are vacancies on the management committee for a Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. The current post holders are senior citizens who feel it is time to step aside and allow a younger generation to provide fresh impetus.

The jobs involve 3 or 4 meetings a year with oversight of the scheme during the school holidays. If you can help this important local resource, please contact Maddy Powell on 9836819 or Richard Pyle 9504000.

Henbury Court Children's Centre

We opened on the 6th October. On our opening day, we were delighted to welcome many families and visitors from the local community.

We are providing a range of day care and community groups (see page 7 for weekly programme) for families with children under 5’s.

Do call in or give us a ring Jane, Claire or Sara on 0117 353 4479 if you would like more information.

Henbury Court Primary School, Trevelyan Way, Henbury, BS10 7NY

Mini-Motos and Go-Peds

Both Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Bristol City Council frequently receive calls from residents expressing concern about persons riding mini-motorcycles and go-peds in public places around Henbury and Brentry.

Mini-motos are becoming increasingly popular but many parents are unaware of how dangerous these bikes can be and what laws are in place to safeguard their use.

Children as young as 5 years old are riding them with no instruction, protective clothing or helmets and sometimes with little or no adult supervision.

• These bikes can only be ridden on private land with the express permission of the land-owners.

• They can be dangerous for both the rider and any pedestrians that may get in the way.

• It is inconsiderate and aggravating for others when they are ridden in unsuitable locations.

• Elderly people and young children or animals may be unable to get out of the way in time and could easily be hit by one of these bikes which can travel at speed.

• The consequences could be great for all concerned and the rider could not only face civil proceedings for damages but fall foul of the Road Traffic Law.

To make it clear here is a simple guide about what they can and cannot do if they ride these small motorcycles anywhere that is not private land.

Use on roads and public places

Mini motorcycles are classed as Mechanically Propelled Vehicles and as such, if they are to be ridden on the road or any public place, the law requires that the bike is:

• Registered

• Taxed

• Insured

• Fitted with a prescribed standard pattern number plate

• Compliant with Construction and Use Regulations in regards to brakes, and includes the requirement to have fitted an audible warning instrument (horn), brake lights and indicators

• The exhaust must also conform and not be too loud or altered in any way

• If used at night it must also comply with lighting regulations and have lights fitted and working

• The rider must hold a license for that class of vehicle

• If that license is a provisional license then 'L' plates must be displayed

• The rider must wear protective helmet and eyewear.

The term 'public place' for the purposes of the Road Traffic Act 1988 has been defined as:

'Any place to which the public have open access is a public place, even if payment must be made to gain entry'.

This would include car parks (public, retail and business parks), public parks, recreation grounds and open spaces.

Use on private ground

Bikes can ONLY be ridden on private property with the owner's consent.

Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that, if without lawful authority a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on to or upon any common land, moor land or land of any other description, not being land forming part of a road, or on any road being a footpath or bridleway or restricted byway he is guilty of an offence.

Both police constables and PCSOs have powers to seize any vehicle used in a manner which causes alarm, distress or annoyance under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

Please note

If parents are the owners of a motorcycle, it can be classed as 'aiding and abetting' if they permit the illegal use of a motorcycle. Even if a parent just buys petrol for a motorcycle they then allow to be ridden illegally, they could be aiding and abetting the rider to commit offences. Owners can be prosecuted in addition to riders.

Go-peds - what's the law?

Go-peds, citybugs, buzz-boards and motorised skateboards are the most recent noisy additions to our streets and open spaces. However, most riders are unaware of the laws relating to their use.

Go-peds should not be sold as being suitable for use on the road, and people selling them should make buyers aware of the legal requirements.

If they are used in a public place, they are considered to be a mechanically propelled vehicle, and subject to the same laws as motorcycles.

To use a go-ped legally in a public place, you must follow all of the 'Ride legal' rules that apply to motorcycles.

Go-peds may be used in private gardens or on land where the rider has been given permission by the landowner.

If you have concerns about these bikes being ridden on public land please report it to the Police on 0845 456 7000 providing as much detail as you can (time, location, number, etc) and as often as it occurs.

SEIZURES

Since the beginning of the year Avonmouth Beat Team have seized 19 mini motor bikes, motor bikes and cars for no insurance and under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002. Virtually all of these have been crushed.

Officers have also issued 11 Section 59 warnings to person(s) riding or driving vehicles carelessly, inconsiderately or off road.

Tackling Burglary

Many burglaries can be prevented: the following 'top tips' have been drawn up to help reduce the risk of burglary:

1. Windows - in just under one third (30%) of burglaries with entry, the thief gained access through an unlocked door or open window, so ensure they are locked particularly when leaving the house.

2. Lighting - leave a light on to give the impression there is someone at home. 58% of burglaries take place after dark and 34% occur at the weekend. Use time switches to operate radios and lights when you are out.

3. Burglar Alarms - visible burglar alarms make burglars think twice. Those connected to a monitoring service are the best, get specialist advice and several quotes.

4. Keys - never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place like under the doormat or in a flowerpot - a thief will look there first. If you've moved house, consider changing the locks as other people may have keys. Never leave keys near a window or door - thieves use a hook or magnet on a stick pushed through the letterbox to take car keys so they can steal cars.

5. Secure all doors - Thieves are most likely to target doors when attempting to break in (67%). Check the condition of the frames, hinges and glass panels. Fit such devices as chains and door viewers. Patio doors will also need special fitted locks.

6. Garages and Sheds - are often left unlocked and may be full of tools and ladders ideal for breaking into the rest of the house. Fit sheds and garages with strong padlocks and ideally an alarm.

7. Postcode your property - marked property can deter burglars because it is harder for a thief to sell on and may also help police secure a conviction.

8. Good Neighbours - if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your neighbourhood, call the police. Get in touch with your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme or form a new one in your area - see what they're doing and how you can contribute.

9. Bogus callers - Most people who call at your home will be genuine, but sometimes people call with the intention of tricking their way into your home, distracting you and stealing money or valuables. Follow the "Lock, Stop, Chain, Check" method. If you are unsure about the person at the door, do not let them in.

10. Insurance - insurance will relieve you of the financial worry of replacing stolen goods and many insurance companies offer reduced premiums for people with good home security.

11. Stolen Goods - do not buy goods that you think might have been stolen as it encourages people to commit acquisitive crime, often to fund a drug addiction and a local drug dealer.

Reduce the chance of Christmas Crime

Criminals take the opportunities afforded them by the extra shopping we do, the hustle and bustle of town centres as we rush around and the value of the goods we buy as presents and store in our homes until the big day. We might also be more trusting and generous at Christmas when requests for charity are made, giving the unscrupulous a chance to collect for their own causes.

Out Shopping
When the shops are crowded, the pickpocket has more chance to steal from you. If you can't arrange to shop during less busy times, make sure you stay alert and be extra careful with your wallet or purse. Keep money close to you

r body and ensure your chequebook and guarantee card are separate. If you have too many bags you will be too busy trying to hold on to them to be aware of anyone stealing from you. Make smaller shopping trips rather than do it all at once and carry too much. The same applies to travelling on crowded buses or trains. If you travel by car, make sure you park in a well- lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view. Try not to return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect heavy items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.

At Home
Having bought all those wonderful presents, don't make it easy for someone to steal from your home. Keep them out of sight until last thing on Christmas Eve and if you 'hide' or store larger items such as bicycles in the shed or outbuildings, make sure they are very secure. You may well find you need to check your insurance to make sure you are covered for the extra value of goods in your home. Take the frame numbers of new cycles and the serial numbers of new electrical equipment for future reference.

Remember, empty boxes left outside advertise that you have new goods inside - dispose of packing carefully.

Vaccine against cervical cancer offered for the first time

“A new vaccination giving protection from cervical cancer is being offered for the first time to thousands of young women across Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Cervical cancer is caused by a virus called Human Papilloma virus, or HPV. It is the second most common cancer of women worldwide and with over 3,000 women affected each year in the UK, with about 1000 deaths. The HPV vaccine protects against 70 per cent of all cervical cancer cases. This is the first time the vaccine has been made available in this country; it has already been used successfully in over 90 countries around the world, including America, Australia and Germany.

From October, the HPV vaccine is being routinely offered to all young women aged between 12 - 13 and 17 – 18 year olds in Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. A course of three doses of vaccine is necessary for protection and these will be given over a six month period.

A new website has also been launched to give girls and parents more information about the vaccine, at: www.nhs.uk/hpv

Dr Chris Payne, director of public health in South Gloucestershire said: “We want to reassure young women and their families that it is safe and there are real benefits to having the vaccine. There’s lots of information available online or young women and parents can talk to the school health nurse, GP or Practice Nurse.”

Dr Hugh Annett, director of public health in Bristol said: ‘We now have the opportunity of helping to prevent the spread of a very serious disease that affects over 3,000 women every year in the UK and causes over a thousand deaths. The HPV vaccine offers young women protection from cervical cancer in the future and will save lives.”

Dr Angela Raffle, consultant in public health for Avon area, and national expert on cancer prevention, said: “The HPV vaccine is a safe vaccine. It is an important development in our efforts to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. A good immunisation programme, reaching all the eligible girls, will complement our Cervical Screening Programme. The vaccine can only give immunity to some sub-types of HPV, therefore regular cervical screening will remain vital.

Dr Max Kammerling, director of public health in North Somerset, said: “We can make a real difference to the next generation of women. We hope all families will support the programme and help make sure as many young women as possible take up the offer of vaccination.”

For more information please contact: Sue Pratt, communications manager South Gloucestershire PCT, on 0117 330 2499 (mobile: 07502 184 701).

Notes

Experts are available for interview who can answer all aspects on the benefits of the new HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine is currently being used in 93 countries around the world, including the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK and most European and Scandinavian countries. Over 20 million doses have been given worldwide, with very few serious adverse reactions reported. For more facts about cervical cancer and HPV vaccine please visit: http://www.immunisation.nhs.uk/publications/288374_HPV_factsheet.pdf

The HPV vaccination is licensed for use to reduce risk of cervical cancer, but only in addition to cervical screening. It is essential that vaccinated girls participate in the cervical screening programme once they reach age 25.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization (JCVI) provides the Department of Health with independent expert advice on all vaccine issues.Human Papilloma viruses cause 99 per cent of invasive cervical cancer. To ensure maximum benefit and protection from this vaccine, it is necessary to administer it before the onset of sexual activity. The vaccine protects against the viruses responsible for about 70 per cent of cases. Cervical screening substantially reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer. It prevents around 7-8 cases out of every ten in regularly-screened women.

For more information about cervical cancer and the screening programme see: http://www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk/cervical/index.html.

Freedom Programme

An hour and a half a week could change your life.

The Freedom Programme is a 12-week support group for women who would like to know more about the realities of Domestic Abuse. The programme aims to help women gain confidence and self esteem to improve the quality of their lives.

Freedom programmes are being run from venues across Bristol and all groups are open to women from any area and are free. If you would like to find out more about the programme and where your nearest group is then contact the BDAF Administrator on 0117 9142232.

Travel Group : Trip to Jordan

Saturday 23rd August saw a group of fifteen of us leave Henbury and the soggy British summer to head for Heathrow and our flight to Amman in the Hashimite Kingdom of Jordan. There was a definite buzz of excitement from the whole group but especially from a few novice travellers for whom the chance to experience a completely different culture was something dreams were made of.

We started well by having a hotel upgrade to five star for our first night. Not much time to rest though as the tour started with a visit to the Roman city of Jerash. Amazingly well preserved, it did not take much imagination to picture life during the Roman period. We even witnessed some chariot racing and had a demonstration of gladiator warfare inside the original amphitheatre.

We were then granted some time to chill out and get over our flight and acclimatise to 34o degree heat by soaking up the rays overlooking the Dead Sea by our hotel pool. This is the lowest point on earth and the salt content in the sea means you cannot sink, so even the non-swimmers ventured out for a paddle and a covering of therapeutic mud.

Next up was a visit to Petra. We arrived at the siq by horse, all feeling somewhat like Indiana Jones. The three quarter mile long siq is a steep gorge that takes you into the Red Rock City. You can spend a few days here exploring the tombs, caves, monasteries, treasures, altars etc all carved into the natural sandstone rock some 2000 years ago.

Keeping the desert theme, next stop was Wadi Rum, an area of outstanding natural beauty near the borders of Saudi Arabia and Egypt, made famous by Lawrence of Arabia as he helped fight the Turks in 1917. Here we took 4x4 jeeps into the desert to a Bedouin tent for some tea and just to experience the desert air in our hair. This prepared us for our next adventure which was a two-hour camel ride into the sunset. Stunning. That night we actually slept in tents, or under the stars as some chose to do and awoke in time to see the sun rise.

Jordan is also the place where many famous biblical events like the Exodus took place and many of the Old Testament characters like Samuel, David, Moses and Elijah lived so for some in the group added an extra dimension to the holiday as it brought the Bible alive. We then had to negotiate one of the most disorganised border crossings in the world as we crossed the Allenby Bridge into Israel for two days of exploring Jerusalem. Visiting the old city and seeing many of the places Jesus lived, and indeed His place of execution and resurrection was thought provoking whatever faith, or none you held.

Next trip we are leaving for Dubai. See events page for details.

Healthy Soup

Many of you will have visited our soup and snack stall at the highly successful Henbury Fun day in August (photo) – we chose to make soup because it is one of the healthiest meals you can eat, whether it’s for lunch, supper or simply a snack. It makes a wholesome meal any time of year but it’s especially welcome as the weather gets colder….Homemade soup is best of all. It’s economical and simple to make and can be a good way to use up leftovers. And you can always freeze some for another day.Here is our basic formula (some might even call it a recipe!) for cooking up a delicious tomato and vegetable soup – just add what’s available in season in the shops or in your garden, or whatever happens to be in your cupboard or fridge, plus a little of your own imagination.

- a chopped onion in a little vegetable oil

- Add chopped garlic if you like this

- Add some chopped vegetables – eg carrots, celery, mushrooms, beans, potatoes, any frozen or leftover vegetables

- Add a tin of chopped tomatoes

- Add a pint of water (more or less depending on how many people and how thick you like your soup)

- Add a stock cube or some stock powder

- Add whatever flavours you like – dried herbs (thyme, oregano, basil or mixed herbs work well), fresh herbs, or spice it up with some chilli sauce (easy does it!)

- Add salt & pepper to taste (if you have high blood pressure – go easy on the salt)

To make it a complete meal – add a handful of red lentils or a tin of beans (excellent cheap protein that’s also good for your heart) or tinned sweet corn.

Bring to the boil, then simmer and stir occasionally for about 15–20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Whizz it up with a hand whisk if you like a smooth soup or want to drink it from a mug. Or leave it chunky and eat with a spoon. You can top your soup with grated cheese, or stir in some plain yoghurt. Or add chopped fresh herbs – parsley, basil or thyme. Or float some croutons made from stale bread dipped in olive oil and toasted in the oven for 5 -10 mins.

Enjoy with some chunky wholemeal bread and a salad for the healthiest meal of all!

Dr Melanie Mackintosh, Willow Tree Surgery, Henbury

SEARCH Group

The group’s aims are:
To empower residents to take ownership by involving all members of the community to help make Henbury and Brentry a safe and pleasant area to work, live and play, by working in partnership.

The group’s objectives are:
To prevent and reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, to improve effective communication, to reduce the fear of crime, to increase pride to improve the local environmentto improve the health and well being of the community.

SEARCH – Community Safety & Environment Group
The group meets on the second Friday of every month, 10.00am at the youth centre, Machin Road. Every other meeting we start with an hour planned walkabout, where we record on action sheets any issues/problems that need addressing, such as litter, rubbish, fly tipping, overgrown/untidy gardens, graffiti, criminal damage etc. These are actioned by the relevant agencies (usually BCC Housing (Bob Ballinger & Julian Dyer), Cleansing (Alan Cox) and Parks (Gary Brentnall), by the next meeting. At each full meeting (every other month) we will include:

PACT (Partners and Communities Together), which aims to identify specific issues to be prioritised for action for the following 2 months. The priorities (usually 3 or 4) will be agreed by the relevant agencies and residents. Updates on progress/action taken will be reported back at the next PACT meeting.

We have welcomed a couple of new members to the group and numbers continue to increase, which could mean we will need to consider meeting at a bigger venue. The group have purchased high visibility tabards for the walkabouts with “Search Group” printed on the back. Some of the activity that the group is involved with is:
• Supporting the appeal against the opening of Bargain Booze whose application to the licensing committee was for a convenience store selling alcohol, not an alcohol outlet only
• Keeping up to date with planning applications for development (no news on Aldi planning application) – old swimming pool site

Purchased a mosquito for Henbury and Brentry as the Police device was short term only. The mosquito will be sited at “The Local” off licence as soon as PC Andy Stamp has made a metal cage to protect it from being vandalised. Issues of graffiti, rubbish, litter and fly tipping are on the increase, but all of these are dealt with when identified on “Walkabouts”.

If you see any of the above then please report to BCC call centre on 0117 922 2100

Please contact Cheryl Coles, Community Safety Officer for further details on 07810506846.


SEARCH Residents visit Henbury School

The Henbury and Brentry SEARCH Group would like to thank the young people who entertained us at Henbury School on Friday 1st August. Also thank you to Nick and all the staff involved.

The array of food prepared and laid out for us was delicious and served with a smile. The performance that followed was very enjoyable and extremely well done. The cast should be proud of themselves.

We would also like to thank those youngsters who gave us guided tours of the Arts facilities at the school—many of us had never been inside the new building. The standard of work on show proves that Henbury School has many talented pupils. We all thoroughly enjoyed the whole afternoon and applaud all those concerned for the hard work and commitment it must have entailed. Thank you all again for inviting us. We look forward to visiting the school again in the future.

Church Christmas Services in Henbury & Brentry

· St. Mary's C of E. Church Close, Henbury http://www.stmaryshenbury.org.uk/

Tel: 0117 950 0536

Sun 21st Dec 6.00pm Carols by Candlelight
Christmas Eve, 4.00pm Crib Service, 11.15pm Midnight Mass
Christmas Day, 9.30am Family Service

· Emmanuel Chapel, Satchfield Cres. Henbury http://www.emmanuelhenbury.org/.uk

Tel: 0117 950 1951

Sun Dec, 21st 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight
Christmas Day, 10.45am Family Service

· New Kingsland URC, Passage Road, Henbury
Tel: 0117 950 0782

Sun Dec 21st, 3.00pm Carols by Candlelight
Christmas Day, 9.00am Family Service

· Methodist Church/St Marks C of E, Lower Knole Lane, Brentry

Tel: 0117 962 1473

Details not available at time of going to press

· St.Antony's Catholic, Ellsworth Road, Henbury

Tel :0117 983 3906

Christmas Eve, Confessions 11.00am, Family Mass 5.00pm, Christmas Mass 9.00pm
Christmas Day, Christmas Mass 9.30am

Feedback from our last issue

Since our last issue, a lot has happened in our area and we'd love to hear what you think. Please email us or call us. Feedback from our last issue was largely very positive again, but if you disagree - you know what to do!

"We like the newsletter very much! It is good to learn and read more about our area. We didn't know till we got the Newsletter how many churches and community activities are offered in our area. I am sure the newsletter will help to strengthen our community and that's very good!" - Anna Schubert

Anna has now moved to Devon and we wish her and her family well in their new community.

"Thanks for the latest newsletter. Not an easy task I'm sure, so well done! The local history pieces you include are fascinating - where do these come from? Is there a book?" - James Brereton

We're glad you like our history pieces, we're lucky in that they are submitted by residents with an interest in local history or written by members of the newsletter team. You might be interested in the DVD advertised on the last page or get in touch with the Conservation Society, Tim Parkinson, tel. 950 8033

"I live in Henbury and I am quite disappointed to find out there has been a meeting at Wesley college on the 28th June, as I didn't receive notice of this meeting until 29th June and I suspect a lot of people didn't get their Henbury and Brentry newsletter until then. What was the point of the meeting if we don't know about it? I feel our opinions were not wanted or we would have had proper notice of this meeting, but of course it’s now too late." - One very Annoyed Resident of Henbury.

We are sorry that the last newsletter was delayed by two weeks, and as we mentioned on the feedback page, it was due to technological issues beyond our control. We feel it important to clarify that this newsletter is run by volunteers and in no way represents either the Community Council or Bristol City Council, although members of both participate and help to fund its production. Also, as passionate members of the community, we more than most welcome your comments and opinion on developments in Henbury and Brentry. We recognise the importance of dialogue between individuals, public bodies and private enterprise and want the newsletter to act as a forum for it. LASTLY, THIS FURTHER HIGHLIGHTS OUR CONSTANT REQUIREMENT FOR MORE DELIVERY VOLUNTEERS! ALL WELCOME, NO MATTER HOW SMALL AN AREA YOU CAN COVER!

Contact the newsletter team by email to:
henburyandbrentrynewsletter@gmail.com
or call the editors: Marianna 0117 950 7032 and Olivia 0117 950 0936.

A new mobility shop on Satchfield Crescent, Henbury

A husband and wife team (Mark and Marie Davies) who have moved into Henbury, opened a shop after ten years working from their home in Lockleaze. The shop sells a wide range of walking frames, scooters and home comfort aids from the new premises, at very competitive prices. They also service & repair mobility products. They have received a positive support from clients old and new for the shop.

Existing clients of the firm include The Mall at Cribbs Causeway and Bristol Zoo, both have been supplied with mobility scooters for use on site by their customers, which they also maintain. They also have clients as far away as Cardiff, Newport, Cheddar and Weston.

Medal for PC Nick Merrick

The Lord Mayor presented PC Nick Merrick with Lord Mayor’s Medal at Mansion House on 18th September. The Medal is presented to people who have made a significant contribution to the life of Bristol.

PC Nick Merrick has worked in Henbury for 12 years. His work as a Policemen has of course, been exemplary, but this award is about the community work he has done, over and above that, in his spare time.
He has worked tirelessly with Henbury and Brentry Community Council and other bodies in the ward, especially with young people, helping many who would otherwise have strayed into undesirable activities, and reaching out to those who the community consider a problem.

He has organised many events designed to integrate young people with older residents, such as community Fun Days. He has been very involved with the “Christmas Crackers” event on Crow Lane during the Festive Season which is fast becoming a local tradition. He also organises residential adventure weekends away for young people. On many of his projects he is assisted by his wife, and his children come along too.

The Henbury and Brentry Community is hugely in his debt. He does not live in Henbury, but his selfless commitment to us is second to none.

Henbury Train Service

Are you frustrated by public transport? Fed up with traffic jams?
Would you like to be able to use a local train service to get to Temple Meads station, or out to Portishead? 
This is an important time for Bristol decision-makers in transport policy, as the regional funding allocation for transport will be decided in February 2009.


The Friends of Surburban Bristol Railways have launched a campaign for the re-opening of the Portishead and Henbury passenger lines as part of the Bristol network, and are distributing postcards to be sent to key individuals.

If you would like to see a Henbury train service, please write to your councillors Derek Pickup derek.pickup@bristol.gov.uk and Mark Weston mark.weston@bristol.gov.uk and your MP Doug Naysmith naysmithd@parliament.uk 
 If you could help give out post cards or are interested in joining the Friends of Suburban Bristol Railways campaign, contact Julie Boston T 0117 942 8637 or email severnbeach@hotmail.co.uk.
Further information is available on the website http://www.fosbr.org.uk/

Community Conference - 28th June 2008

Our Community Conference on 28th June will start at 9.30 at Wesley College. One of the workshops will have the theme of “The Future for Henbury and Brentry's Built Environment”. Two developments which will contribute to the lively debate are the possible Aldi supermarket on the old swimming pool site and South Glousester plans to build up to 2600 houses on land immediately adjacent to Henbury and Brentry area. Do come and voice your opinions on these and related subjects.
A mini-bus is being provided to take people to the conference leaving at the following times:
Station Road shops 9.15am
Crow Lane Lay-by 9.05 and 9.20am
Charlton Road shops9.00am
Please ring Richardon 950 4000 to be sure of a seat on the bus.

The Co-operative Invests £300,000 in Bristol

The Co-op food store in Henbury, Bristol has unveiled a smart new look on Thursday (May 1) following the completion of a £300,000 revamp that has created four new jobs.
The Crow Lane store will feature the consumer-owned Co-operative Group's new identity, The co-operative, which aims to highlight improved service standards across its 4,500 outlets in the UK, including its travel, pharmacy, funerals and bank branches, as well as its commitment to supporting local communities and ethical trading policies.
Pupils from Blaise Primary School will performed the ribbon cutting ceremony and accepted a donation of £200 for their school’s funds to mark the occasion.
The community store is being transformed with modern décor and a more shopper-friendly layout. The store’s emphasis will be on fresh foods with a wider range available, while the hot food range is being extended to include pies and pasties. All beers and white wines will now be chilled, and popular services, including the lottery, paypoint and an external cash machine, are being retained.
As the leading supermarket supporter of Fairtrade foods, The co-operative’s popular Fairtrade products will feature and the store will carry the retailer’s own health and beauty range with products that are not tested on animals.
Shoppers will also benefit from The co-operative’s policy on honest labelling which gives the full facts about its food and drink products, while customers can carry shopping home in 100 percent degradable bags.
The Co-operative Group also gives its customer members a share* of its profits in cash. Members can choose to keep the twice-yearly payouts or donate all or part of them to local worthy causes.
“We provide a much valued service for the local community and I am confident our shoppers will be delighted with our improved store and wider selection of goods which will better meet all the community’s daily grocery needs,” said manager Grant Caddick.

Notes *
Unlike many large organisations, The Co-operative Group is owned by its consumer members and seeks to return a share of its profits to the people who trade with it.
Becoming a member of The Co-operative Group costs just £1 and under the profit share scheme, members earn points on their trade with all the Group’s businesses including food stores, travel, pharmacy and funeral outlets as well as the Co-operative Bank and Co-operative Insurance (CIS). points are converted into a share of profits and paid out twice a year.

Media enquiries: Contact Gideon Fireman, senior public relations officer on 0161 827 5283 or 07711 925 839

Young Peoples View: ALDI

Question: Do you think the council are right to make the old swimming pool into an Aldi?
As youths do you think that Bristol city council were right to knock down the old Henbury swimming baths and decide to make a new Aldi?
Answer: “Because all the youths hardly have anywhere to hang about and they are worried about the crime.
And yet they are rapidly knocking down all the places to go for youths of which then is increasing the amount of crime committed on Crow Lane. Now I am not saying that it is all youths because it is not but at the end of the day some youths are going out and doing vandalism and shoplifting etc on shops because they are bored and surely you as youths are fed up of going out with mates and having no where to go. Isn’t it about time the council started to build something where we could hang about. If you would like to share your opinion with me please email talenkennedy@hotmail.co.uk
Thank you.”
By Talen Kennedy (13 years old)

Summer Fun for Children at Henbury Library

Go for gold with Team Read, a free children's reading challenge coming to all Bristol libraries this summer. The challenge is to read 6 books during the summer holidays. You'll get stickers for each book you read so you can track your progress and if you complete the challenge you'll get a medal and a certificate. Come and see the staff at Henbury Library to sign up (challenge starts from 21st July)
Henbury Library also has an exciting programme of activities for children this summer. Starting with: -
• Thursday 31st July 10.30 til 12 - Come on you Reds!! Make you own mini table football game.
• Thursday 7th August 10.30 til 12 - Animal Olympics. Animal long jump competition.
• Thursday 14th August 10.30 til 11.30 Mad Science show - make your own slime!
• Thursday 21st August 10.30 til 11.30 Mike Clarke, Fun magic show.
• Thursday 28th August 10.30 til 12 -Slam Dunk Make your own mini basketball game.
All the above activities are suitable for ages 4-10. Tickets priced 50p. Booking is recommended, as places are limited.
In addition throughout the holidays the library will still be running the following weekly sessions: -
Rockin Babies - every Monday at 10.30am
Preschool storytime and craft - every Tuesday at 10.00am.
If you would like any more information please come and see the staff at Henbury Library or phone us on 0117 9038522.

The Anthony Edmonds Charity

The charity was set up in 1634 to provide schooling for poor boys, It still offers Financial help for educational purposes. Applicants must be:
• Under 25 years old
• Resident within the boundaries of the ancient parishes of Henbury, Westrury-on-Trym and Horfield
• Unable to undertake their projects without help.
Parish boundaries have changed since the Charity was set up so residential qualifications will be checked against the Trustee’s official map.
Grants are to provide help with activities of a broadly educational nature. These include apprenticeships, courses, and less formal projects, whether or not they lead to qualifications. They may be academic, artistic, technical, social, or sporting. Let us know what you wish to do so that we can determine whether it lies within our limits.
Application forms are available from The Clerk to the Trustees, 43 Meadowland Road, Bristol BS10 7PW. They should be completed and returned in good time before the grant is needed. All applications are treated in confidence.

Dog Fouling and Littering

Dog fouling in public areas is not simply an anti-social nuisance but a serious public health issue. Dogs act as a host for a parasitic worm called Toxicara canis. This worm lives in the dog's gut, and lays its eggs there. These eggs are passed out in the dog's faeces. If ingested by a child it grows into a grub which may travel to the child's eye and obscure their vision or may even make them blind. SinceSeptember 2002 all public land (ie pavements, grass verges, parks and open spaces) is covered by the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996.
An offence is committed under the Act if a person in charge of a dog fails to clean up after the animal has fouled in public open land, including the public highway. The offence carries a maximum fine of £1,000.
Fixed penalty notices carry an on the spot fine, which the offender can pay within 14 days, or have the case heard at the Magistrates Courts.

How do I report dog faeces that need clearing from public areas?
Waste Service and Street Scene Group have a responsibility to clear dog faeces from the public highway. If you wish to report dog faeces left by a dog owner on the public highway please email customer.services@bristol.gov.uk or telephoning 0117 9223838. You will need to provide a detailed description of where the faeces are located.
The enforcement of dog fouling is another part of the dog warden's role, which constantly promotes responsible dog ownership. If you require any further advice on dog related issues or you would like a copy of their "Dogs in Bristol" leaflet please contact them on: Tel: 0117 977 6004 or email: dog.warden@bristol.gov.uk

Around the Open Spaces in Henbury and Brentry there are dog waste bins please be responsible and pick up after your dog.. The dog warden has been around the Open Space and placed 20 signs on all the pedestrian access points to the open space. The dog Warden has been asked to patrol the open space due to the number of dogs fouling the area.


Litter
It is an offence to drop, throw, deposit or leave litter under Section 87 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Litter is defined as including all smoking related litter, such as cigarette ends. It also includes discarded chewing gum.
Street Scene Enforcement Team have the power to take action against those who drop litter by issuing a Fixed Penalty Notice. A Fixed Penalty Notice is an on the spot fine, if you are given a Fixed Penalty Notice you have 14 days to pay the fine.
If you fail to pay the Fixed Penalty Notice of £75, we will take prosecution action against you in the Magistrates Court. The maximum penalty on conviction for this offence is £2,500. If found guilty, you will also be given a criminal record.
What you can do?
Use the litter bins provided in the streets. Do not leave single black bin bags out on the street as this is classed as littering. Store your waste correctly and use the appropriate services for your waste.

Fly-tipping
If you dump any waste onto land or highway this is called fly-tipping and is illegal. Leaving as little as two black bags on the street when it is not your recycling and rubbish collection day is classed as fly-tipping.
Fly-tipped waste is a problem in Bristol. A large quantity of the waste dumped contains fridge freezers, builders rubble and mattresses which is littering our street scene, driving down property prices and costing the council tax payer an estimated £231,848 each year.
What can we do?
We will investigate complaints and incidents of fly-tipping where evidence is available.
We use a range of methods to help us identify who has fly-tipped waste in Bristol, including:
• CCTV which we can install anywhere
• We interview people
• can serve Legal Notices requesting information and the receiver of the Notice has a legal obligation to reply
• We work very closely with the Environment Agency and neighbouring Local Authority Enforcement Teams to make sure we catch the offenders.
Convictions for flytipping can carry a fine of up to £50,000 and/or up to 5 years imprisonment.
What can you do?
Please help us combat fly-tipping by reporting any fly-tipping in your area today.Simply complete the online report form that can be found at the Bristol city website.Alternatively you can contact the Customer Services Centrewill be more than happy to help.
Any information you can obtain about who has fly-tipped the waste would be very helpful to our Street Scene Enforcement Team. Information such as:
• Vehicle registration
• Brief description of the vehicle/s seen fly-tipping
• Brief description of the person/people seen fly-tipping
Photographic evidence if possible the above email: customer.services@bristol.
gov.uk
Tel: 0117 922 3838

Avonmouth Recycling Centre, Kingsweston Lane,
Avonmouth, Bristol BS11 0YS
Opening times
Winter time - From Monday 29 October 2007 till Sunday 30 March 2008 Bristol's Household Waste Recycling Centres will be open everyday from 8.00am to 4.15pm.
Summer time - From Monday 31 March 2008 till Sunday 26 October 2008 Bristol's Household Waste Recycling Centres will be open everyday from 8.00am to 6.45pm.

Crow Lane Open Space Clean-up

In response to the never ending problems of fly tipping/dumped rubbish, litter etc on the open space, the Henbury & Brentry SEARCH group organised a clean up. On Wednesday 16th April you may have seen a large group of people cleaning up the the open space from one end to the other. Young People, Residents, Community Members, Police, Local Councillors, Bristol City Council (Waste Management), Safer Bristol (Community Safety), SITA all worked in partnership to clean the area up. There were shopping trolleys, computer screens, hedge trimmers, carpets and even an old fire door was found in the stream, which took 4 people to pull out as it was extremely heavy.

There were many black bags of rubbish, furniture items, household goods dumped in the hedgerow through out the open space. The amount of general litter that had been dropped and the amount of dog faeces found (and walked in) through the open space was quite alarming considering the amount of litter bins and dog fouling bins available. The weather was kind to us and the day was successful in terms of the amount of rubbish removed (1.82 tonnes). A big thank you to everyone that helped and especially to the residents who made the rolls for everyone's lunch.

Although there is a regular 1-day a week contract to litter pick the area and BCC Parks department keep the grass areas cut and tidy, it seems that people still continue to misuse the green open spaces that Henbury & Brentry boast. There are not limitless resources or money to keep clearing the open space and misuse of it will only lead to more problems in the future. Please help keep your green and open spaces clean and tidy for all to enjoy.

SEARCH Group

The SEARCH group meet on the 2nd Friday of each month and start with an hours walkabout every other meeting. We will soon be more easy to identify as the group members will soon be wearing high visibility tabards with SEARCH printed on the back on the walkabouts. If you see us
out and about please let us know of any concerns/issues you may have.
The group continues to address issues of fly tipping, litter, rubbish, Anti-Social Behaviour, Grafitti, Dog Fouling, Untidy gardens, Parking Issues. We had 2 guest speakers at our last meeting talking to the group about Drugs and Hate Crime.
We are always happy to welcome new members to the group so if you are interested and would like more details then contact Cheryl Coles, Community Safety Officer (Safer Bristol) on 07810506846.

PCSO Kim Wrixon

“Hi my name is Kim and I am the new PCSO working from the Avonmouth station, covering the Brentry and Henbury areas.
For the last 10 years I have been doing various customer service roles and hope that this will stand me in good stead for my new role.
I'm looking forward to working along side PC stamp, PCSO Elliott-Taylor
and other agencies, helping to tackle issues that matter to the community. “ Kim Wrixon

Excercise: The New Feel-Good

“I have never taken any exercise except sleeping and resting." - Mark Twain

“Anyone's life truly lived consists of work, sunshine, exercise, soap, plenty of fresh air, and a happy contented spirit.” - Lillie Langtry

Who do you agree with?
Whichever, I hope to persuade you that exercise is great for your body and mind and that you can find your own sort of exercise, which won’t feel like a chore.

Why should I exercise?
Here’s some good news. Exercise can:
• Reduce blood pressure
• Reduce cholesterol ( making stroke and heart attack less likely)
• Reduce your risk of diabetes- it slims your tummy and frees up the liver to process sugar better
• Make you happier- when you exercise, feel-good hormones called endorphins are released, lifting low mood and raising energy levels, making stressful lives easier to cope with. You may think that when you’re feeling low and tired, exercise is the last thing you want, but if you do give it a go, the positive feedback you get should spur you on to make next time easier.
Reduce the symptoms of, amongst other things, arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome and morning sickness in pregnancy.

How much exercise do I need?
Aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day- and that can be any sort of exercise which stretches you physically i.e. raises your pulse rate. For most people, the best way to make exercise a daily habit is to build it into your routine- something which doesn’t involve a special time or place or fancy equipment (although some people can’t resist the lure of fancy equipment)- a walk (or even a run) in the lunch break, dog-walking (also good for meeting other people in your community- another really important part of a happy and stable life), not using lifts at work, getting off the bus a few stops early, cycling to the shops. Varying your routine and joining in with other people will stop you getting bored.

Lots of ideas
There’s a good leaflet about ways to get active in Bristol and South Gloucestershire for free, produced for the NHS, and available at doctor’s surgeries, with lots of ideas in it (contact Simon Carpenter 900 2193)

Here are some local activities :
Walking Wonderful walks in Blaise Castle Estate - with changing seasons there’s always something different to see. If you think you’re unfit, try choosing a half hour walk, and speeding up so you go a little further each time. The Henbury Healthy Walking Group, who walk every Thursday, meeting in Crow Lane has been going since 2004 and organise local walks and some further afield. They are graded so you can see how strenuous they might be, but are generally easy walks. (contact Roy Pepworth 962 3768).
Cycling through the Blaise Estate from Coombe Dingle to Henbury has to be one of the best ways to start a working day. You can hear woodpeckers, see owls, and if very lucky, kingfishers along the way. Cycling to work has been shown to boost concentration and productivity, with fewer days off work from illness. If you’re nervous of cycling , Life Cycle UK (based in Bristol 929 0440) run practical courses to boost cycle skills-they’ll even help you find safe cycle routes to your workplace, and show you how to maintain your bike.
Swimming Apparently, we were all once fish, and it’s never too late to re-learn how to swim. Henbury Sports Centre is a good place to start. The staff are friendly, there are swimming lessons available, and special over 50’s sessions. There is also free swimming for pregnant women (you’ll need an Exemption Certificate from your midwife). And then there’s the wonderful Henleaze Lake swimming club.
Gardening is good for mind, body and spirit, and half an hour of digging can burn up 200 calories. If you don’t have your own garden, you could become a volunteer at the University Botanical Garden in Stoke Bishop (contact Nicholas Wray 331 4912). Home-grown vegetables, eaten soon after picking, are bursting with vitamins- much better than something shipped from the other side of the world. Call the Bristol City Council Allotment Office on Tel. 922 3737 to find your local allotment site.

There’s a full-spectrum of exercise classes at Henbury Sports Centre, from Yoga and Pilates, to kick boxing. ‘Extend’ Movement to Music classes for over 60’s, and people with limited mobility take place every Thursday in Brentry and provide free transport (contact Alison Williams 950 0133).
The main message is: Give your life a boost and enjoy some exercise.
Let the Newsletter know your good ideas and meanwhile, you’ll probably spot me out on my bicycle in Henbury.
Dr Marion Steiner
Willow Tree Surgery
Southmead and Henbury Family Practice.

PRC Redevelopment Project

Background
38 council, unrepaired Woolaway type PRCs in Henbury are to be knocked down and the affected areas redeveloped. The current plan indicates 127 new homes are proposed to be built in Henbury – that is 38 council homes, and 89 private homes for sale.
There are 9 sites in Henbury, (8 garages, 1 disused allotment) which, in addition to the PRC sites are proposed to be used as part of the PRC Redevelopment Project to provide additional housing.
What has been happening so far?
Since the last article, the following has been happening on the
PRC Redevelopment Project:

• Planning Briefs were prepared following feedback from residents at consultation events that were organised in December 2006.
• Initial Development Proposals (IDPs) – were produced, sketch plans of how the new development could look including setting out proposed design, layout and density for the PRC sites.
• Exhibitions were held in the four estates in December 2007 on the IDP’s. These plans were well received, and many comments made have been taken on board and incorporated into the revised plans.
• The feedback from the community, as well as comments from Planning officers have resulted in revisions to the Planning Briefs and IDPs.
• The revised Planning Brief’s and IDP’s will be given to shortlisted developers for their proposals for the PRC sites.
• Further community consultation will take place ahead of any planning applications being submitted.

What will be happening next?
The council have started the selection process to appoint a private developer to deliver the PRC Redevelopment Project and build the new council and private homes.
Over the course of the next year, council officers, working with councillors and resident representatives, will meet with interested developers, ask them to propose their ideas for delivering the scheme, and make sure the council is getting value for money.
The final developer will be selected in Spring 2009.

How does this affect PRC Tenants?
PRC tenants affected by the redevelopment proposals are all aware that they will need to move at some point. We don’t know yet who will be moving where. We do know that:

• Tenants will be moved in small phases
• When a phase has been identified all tenants within it will become top priority for rehousing – we will contact you ahead of this
• We will accommodate all PRC tenants’ needs, and their wishes as far as possible
• The aim is to move people only once, either to a newly built property or an existing Council property.
• All newly built properties will be offered to PRC tenants first.
• A PRC newsletter is due to be published in July 2008 to update all those affected.

How can I find out more?
Visit our web page ‘PRC Redevelopment Project’, on the Bristol City Council Website: www.bristol.gov.uk
Or email the priority stock team :
priority.stock.team@bristol.
gov.uk
If you would like to speak with someone, contact:
Beth Ridley, Project Officer on 352 5253 or
Kaj Parmar, Project Officer on 352 5284

Messge in a Bottle

Message in a bottle is a simple scheme, which involves a small canister, an information form and two stickers, which are given to people with medical problems or allergies. People fill in the form with their medical details, and the telephone number of who to call if they are ill, particularly if they have a pet, who will need looking after. They put the form and a copy of their repeat prescriptions into the canister and put the canister in the door of their fridge, where it is easy to find and protected from fire. One sticker is put on the outside of the fridge door and the other on the inside of the front door. Ambulance Crews and GP’s who do out of hour visits, are part of this scheme and they will look out for the stickers.
This is a national scheme and we have been running it in Bristol Primary Care Trust since 2005. In that time we have given out over 10,000 bottles. Elizabeth Williams from Bristol PCT said “Message in a bottle has been very successful, NHS staff find the information useful and people on medication or with an allergy find it reassuring. The scheme has saved lives”.
We have just received another batch of bottles, so we have lots to give away.
If people would like a bottle for their fridge, they can ask their Community Nurse or contact David Manning, on 0117 9002266 or email him on david.manning@bristolpct.nhs.uk
and he will gladly put a bottle in the post.

Henbury Healthy Walking Group

The Group began walking in June 2004 with Tom Webb as leader. Tom left Bristol in 2005 and since that time the walk leaders have been Roy Pepworth and Roger Grinham neither who actually live in Henbury, so it is very pleasing to report that in the last few months three Henbury ladies have been trained to become walk leaders. We walk every Thursday beginning in Crow Lane, Henbury. The starting times are dictated by the bus service for walks other than the local Henbury/ Brentry walks. Nearly all our walkers enjoy the benefits of Free bus Concessions for people over sixty years of age. All walks are checked by the leaders for Health and Safety and do not involve difficult terrain. Some Walk Leaders are on each walk as required by Bristol City Council. This is a group to help you exercise easily, see parts of the area in a different light and be amongst friends each Thursday. For more details contact Roy on 0117 962 3768

20th Henbury Flower Show

The long tradition of the Henbury Flower Show was revived by the Henbury Village Hall Management Committee in 1987 and has been held every year but one since then. It is now staged in the Village Hall in Church Close and the Flower Show Committee, under Mrs. Norma Jones, is busy planning this year’s event to be held on Saturday, 19th July.
There are classes for flowers, fruit and vegetables, cookery, wine making, handicrafts, art, photography as well as various children’s classes.The show is open to all in the afternoon from 2 p.m. and, weather permitting, teas will be served in the garden.
Do enter one or more of the classes and even if you do not, come along and support this Village event. Information and entry schedules are available from 0117 950 1102 or 0117 950 7712.

News From the Churches

Communication is very important in our daily lives and the way we do it can vary in so many ways; texts, e-mail, media, facebook, letters, stories to name a few, not forgetting good old fashioned talking. This newsletter is also a great addition in our community in helping us stay informed.
Jesus Christ was a terrific communicator, sometimes by His words and often by His actions and the amazing thing is, He is still influencing people 2000 years after His death. A good example He gave was when He washed His disciples feet, and also His ability to listen.
Let's think about what we are saying to the people we associate with today. Are people pleased to see us or glad to see the back of us?
-Adapted from an Inspirational Piece by Fr Michael Walsh, St Antony's.

Churches Together Summer Social
If you have an interest in the things that Henbury & Brentry churches do together, then do come along to hear of future plans, plus if you would just like to come to meet folk for a social evening you will be very welcome.
Monday June 30th 7.30pm, 18 Woodgrove Road, Henbury. Woodgrove Road is opposite Blaise Castle car park.

Church Services in Henbury & Brentry

• St. Mary's C of E. Church Close, Henbury www.stmaryshenbury.org.uk. Tel: 0117 950 0536. Services Sunday 8.00 am & 9.30am (Holy Communion)
• Emmanuel Chapel, Satchfield Cres. Henbury, www.emmanuelhenbury.org. Tel: 0117 950 1951. Main Service Sunday 10am. If you have an interest in the things that Henbury & Brentry churches do together then do come along to hear of future plans, plus if you would just like to come to meet folk for a social evening you will be very welcome.
• New Kingsland URC, Passage Road, Henbury. Tel: 0117 950 0782. Main Service Sunday 11am
• Methodist Church/St Marks C of E, Lower Knole Lane, Brentry. Tel: 0117 962 1473. Main Services Sunday 11.00am & 6pm
• St.Antony's Catholic, Ellsworth Road, Henbury. Tel :0117 983 3906. Mass, Saturday 6.30pm & Sunday 9.30am
  

Feedback From Our Last Issue

After the last issue and with the launch of the website, we have again had a lot of positive comments about both formats. However, one comment was made on the website and although the newsletter team have responded, we’d love to know what you think too:

“We moved to Bristol just over a year ago from a northern big city. We have been dismayed at the level of crime. Never before have I been afraid to walk alone after dusk or feel afraid just walking to work (through Southmead). In just 15 months I have seen more broken- in and burnt-out cars than in my whole life and had to report more incidents to the police than ever before. I applaud efforts by the community to bring people closer together but doubt whether this will impact on the levels of crime.” – anonymous, via the website.

Although you are undoubtedly experiencing crime first-hand and this naturally affects the way you feel about our area, we would urge you to take a more positive approach towards creating a safer community. Building a sense of community spirit, pride and cohesion does positively impact on crime figures, so community events, the newsletter, after school clubs, etc are worthwhile. Also, the way people behave towards others in the street does affect how 'safe' the streets are: if we all timidly rushed from one doorway to the next, of course the streets would belong to those hanging about in gangs. Crimes such as vandalism and assault are much less likely to occur in a busy street than a quiet one. Lastly, reporting crime is a very important part of this process, so keep doing it. Without witness statements, convictions don't happen, and without a clear picture of criminal activity, the police and local authorities stand no chance of making an improvement. – Editor’s response.

A final word from us, we have experienced quite a few problems getting this issue of the newsletter together, largely due to IT issues. We’d like to thank Henbury Library, Learn Direct Centre (especially Janis and Eve) and Henbury Court Primary School for supporting Marianna in getting the paper version together. The newsletter is new for pages-longer (from 8 pages to12 pages) due to increase in articles and additional potential advertisements.

If you would like to give us an article or your input for the next issue please send your email to mariannapaf@hotmail.com or contact us before the 10th of October .