https://frenchay.news/ Recent content on frenchay•news Hugo -- gohugo.io Copyright © 2013–2023, frenchay•news; all rights reserved. Tue, 07 Feb 2023 20:06:20 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-02/flower-show/ Tue, 07 Feb 2023 20:06:20 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-02/flower-show/ The Frenchay Flower Show Committee will be meeting at the Village Hall this Thursday 9th Feb at 7pm to discuss whether it is going to be possible to run the Show this year. The current Chairman and several members of the Committee, including the Secretary, have had to stand down this year but will support it and act as co-Chair and co-Secretary this year if required. The Committee are however also in desperate need of more people to be involved in roles like publicity, organising stands and sponsorship etc, etc. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/biodiversity/ Tue, 24 Jan 2023 12:50:10 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/biodiversity/ Editor’s note: Below are a series of documents describing environmental plans for Frenchay. Although they have been taken from the old website they may still be a useful reference source. Frenchay Biodiversity Plan - 2020 Draft: A draft plan covering local green areas in Frenchay. It provides a series of ideas aimed at enhancing and protecting them for the benefit of wildlife and general biodiversity. Village Green Landscape and Ecology Management Plan - 2018: The Landscape and Ecology Management Plan (LEMP) produced for the Voluntary Village Green (VVG) areas in April 2018 on behalf of Redrow Homes. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/warm-space/ Mon, 16 Jan 2023 11:45:37 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/warm-space/ A community “Warm Space” is being created at Frenchay Parish Church (on the Common) on Tuesdays and Thursdays over the Winter. Although all are welcome, it is hoped to be especially useful to those who have to economise with their heating or live alone. As well as providing refreshments, conversation and company, it is hoped that a range of activities such as making cards or playing board games and pinball, talks and singing will be offered. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/hospital/ Tue, 10 Jan 2023 18:45:10 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/hospital/ At the meeting of the Health Scrutiny committee of South Gloucestershire Council on Nov 23rd Cllr Andrea Reid, (Labour, Kingswood), and Cllr Ruth Davis, (Liberal Democrat, Yate Central), successfully proposed that a group of councillors be set up to investigate the provision of Community Hospitals and Minor Injuries Units across South Gloucestershire, including at the former hospital site in Frenchay. Cllr Reid said: “20 years ago the Bristol Health Services Plan (BHSP) established that South Gloucestershire needed Community Hospitals and Minor Injuries Units (MIU) in Thornbury, Yate, Frenchay and Cossham. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/hsbc/ Tue, 10 Jan 2023 16:37:27 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/hsbc/ The recent announcement that the Downend branch of the HSBC bank is to close on the 25th of April has caused quite a stir in the community. HSBC was the the last of the major UK banks to have a branch in the Frenchay area. Its closure will be especially difficult for local businesses who often need in-person services more than domestic customers. They also find it more difficult to move their bank accounts due to complex customer and supplier connections. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/voting/ Sat, 07 Jan 2023 19:10:58 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/voting/ With local elections sheduled for May, this might be a good time to check that you are registered to vote. If you have recently moved to the area you may need to register at your new address. You can register to vote here: beta.southglos.gov.uk/register-to-vote In addition, the Government has changed the rules about voting in person at a polling station – you will need a valid photo ID to vote in May. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/local-elections/ Sat, 07 Jan 2023 18:42:42 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/local-elections/ Elections for all the seats on South Gloucestershire Council are scheduled for Thursday the 4th of May. This seems like a good time to provide some basic information about the context of these elections that may be especially useful for readers who have recently moved into the area. The great majority of what is usually considered to be Frenchay is part of the Frenchay & Downend Ward. This ward elects three South Gloucestershire Councillors. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/winterbourne-wind/ Thu, 05 Jan 2023 20:59:41 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/winterbourne-wind/ Those of you able to join us for our ‘Carols not on the Common’ event a week before Christmas will know just how superb the WWB were in creating such a special atmosphere in the Church that evening. They practice at Frenchay Village Hall and have an open rehearsal evening on Thursday 19th January at 7.30pm. If you play a wind or percussion instrument and are interested please do join them. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/tree-planting/ Thu, 05 Jan 2023 20:52:41 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/tree-planting/ This Saturday from 10am we are going to get on with planting the whip trees through our joint project with the NHS and Woodlands Trust, the rain is due to die out from 9am but come dressed for staying dry and warm with gardening gloves and a garden spade if you have one please (we do have many spare). If you are able to join us please meet us by the back entrance to the School, just past the observation ward bungalows on the pathway to the allotments. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/south-glos/ Thu, 29 Dec 2022 15:03:59 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/south-glos/ Beckspool Road - Traffic Calming As residents might be aware, the traffic calming alterations/improvements along Beckspool Road are scheduled to begin early next year. We hope that these works will finally provide a long term solution for slowing traffic along Beckspool Road and support those residents who are walking and cycling, in particular to the new Frenchay CofE Primary School. We will keep you updated once an official start date has been provided. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/library/ Thu, 29 Dec 2022 13:51:54 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/library/ It’s the perfect weather for snuggling up with a book and the Gadgeteers are back for the Winter Mini Challenge! The Winter Mini Challenge is an online challenge for primary school children beginning on 1st December and finishing on 20th February 2023. To take part in the Winter Mini Challenge, children join online at wintermini.org.uk and read three books of their choice to unlock a limited-edition virtual badge and a special Winter Mini Challenge certificate to print off and keep. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/esme/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 22:14:14 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/esme/ Do you like your first name? I really hope so! It is the thing that I am most grateful to my parents for. I wish I had asked my father in which book he had discovered it. When I started at the Red Maids’ School, there was only one other Esmé, and she was in my form. She was a boarder, and I was a day-girl I am grateful to a few young friends who have called their daughters Esmé. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/recipie/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 20:47:56 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/recipie/ A recipe from guest contributor and Great British Bake Off competitor Will Hawkins (See this month’s feature item – Great British Bake Off: The Frenchay Connection) One of the things I’ve learnt being on the Great British Bake Off is to write and develop recipes. I like creating new treats but also updating old favourites to give them a new lease of life. This is one of the latter – it’s my Granny’s trusty ginger nut recipe – updated for modern ingredients and ovens. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/dftc/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 20:41:55 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/dftc/ I first started playing tennis at around age 11 at Knowle Tennis Club conveniently located next to the cricket ground where a lot of young lads just happened to be learning to play cricket! Little did I know that nearly 50 years on I would be playing again within a stones throw of a cricket club, this time Frenchay. I haven’t actually been playing during all those 50 years but once your have learnt to hit a ball and the rules of the game then you are set for life and can pick it up again any time. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/just-run/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 20:33:05 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/just-run/ If you are looking for a new physical challenge and think you might like to give running a go Just Run’s next Couch to 5km and 5-10km courses will start on Monday 9th January at 7pm at the Dings Rugby Club. Frenchay Park Road, BS16 1LG. If you have some running experience then our 2-, 3-, 4-, or 6-mile groups may appeal. We cater for a wide range of abilities and fitness levels. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/cricket/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 18:34:26 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/cricket/ A very happy New Year to all Readers from the Cricket Club. I still cannot believe where 2022 went!! The New Year brings lots of (indoor) cricket activities across every part of the Club. At Youth level, each age group starts ‘Pre-Season Practice Nets’ towards the end of this month, working through on a weekly basis until the end of March. Interested? - please contact frenchayyouth@gmail.com Similarly the various Senior Mens Hardball and Womens Hardball and Softball Teams also start their Pre -Season Net practices, also on a weekly basis. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/dings/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 18:30:25 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/dings/ We are past half way in the league programme, although we have one game to rearrange. We were due to play away at Newport (Salop) in December, but due to a frozen pitch the game was called off on the Saturday morning with players and supporters enjoying a pre trip breakfast we received a call to say the game was off. There are deliberate gaps in the fixtures to allow for the need to rearrange postponed games. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/bake-off/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 18:20:07 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/bake-off/ The recent TV series of Great British Bake Off featured, as one of its twelve contestants, Will Hawkins, who grew up in Frenchay, and whose parents still live in the village. Here he gives a short account of the experience: Until that day in November 2021, I had only ever entered one baking competition before and that was the Victoria Sponge category in the 1987 Fromeside Festival. As a pupil in year 6 at Frenchay C of E School, a choirboy at Frenchay Church and member of First Frenchay Scouts I had entered loads of things in that year’s Festival - drama, singing, art projects - as we competed with young people from Hambrook and Winterbourne in arts and culture - but that was my first go a baking. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/book-exchange/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 18:12:27 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/book-exchange/ Have you used the book exchange housed in the telephone box at the top of Frenchay Hill? It was a lifeline during Lockdown when the libraries were closed. It is open to all and you do not have to donate books to take the book/s of your choice. As we get a surplus of books some are donated to charity. In 2022 £391 was raised for charity - more than £1 per day. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/horticultural/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:59:11 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/horticultural/ Our next meeting will take place at the Friends Meeting House at 7.30pm on Wednesday 4th January, when we are looking forward to hearing a talk by Dave Usher, head gardener at Hestercombe Gardens near Taunton between 1986 and 2004. The gardens have been under restoration in various stages over the past 50 years and David will lead us through some key stages that brought these varied and beautiful gardens back to life. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/gardening/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:54:49 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/gardening/ When the festive season is over if you have a real tree please recycle by chipping it for use on the garden or take it to the recycling centre. If you have the space the tree can be cut up into small pieces and stacked in a corner of the garden to biodegrade naturally giving a home to the creatures in the garden and eventually feed the plants around it. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/cold-weather/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:38:32 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/cold-weather/ Emergencies If you are concerned that an individual has hypothermia call 999. If you are concerned that someone is not coping with the cold contact the South Gloucestershire Council Social Care First Service on 01454 868007. Keeping Warm In addition to dressing warmly, eating hot food and taking warm drinks regulary, the official government advice is to heat homes to at least 18°C in winter to pose minimal risk to health when wearing suitable clothing. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/wi/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:12:59 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/wi/ As we move into the New Year, members of Frenchay WI are looking forward to an uninterrupted year of meetings with interesting speakers and social events. November saw our Annual Meeting when a new committee was elected. We also had Country Markets with their homemade wares, so our members were able to buy some lovely cakes, jams etc as well as Christmas gifts At the time of writing, we are looking forward to our December meeting when we shall have Christmas themed entertainment as well as mince pies and mulled wine. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/probus/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:07:15 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/probus/ Frenchay Probus Club met for two seasonal events in December, the first being the usual ‘first Wednesday’ meeting in the Village Hall, when the main item was the concert of Christmas Music admirably performed by the Northavon Singers. It was a programme that was perfect to get everyone well and truly into the spirit of Christmas. On the following Wednesday, it was time for the annual Christmas lunch at the Grange Hotel, Winterbourne, and which was well attended and enjoyed. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/village-hall/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:02:35 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/village-hall/ The Frenchay Village Hall Committee would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year. We are looking forward to starting work on some of the exciting improvements to the Hall in 2023 to make it an even more attractive local venue. We were busy last year gathering ideas and working up plans for the improvements using the Section 106 funding from the Redrow development. The provisional plans are now displayed on the noticeboard at the Hall and were recently exhibited at the FRA Village meeting in November 2022. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/old-school/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 16:35:41 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/old-school/ This article is intended to explain some of the legal history of the former school premises, now empty, and awaiting a future yet to be determined. It does not purport to be a definitive explanation, as all the facts and documents are not available to the writer, but it hopefully provides some context for understanding what might happen from here. The key starting point was an Act of Parliament, the School Sites Act of 1841, which allowed landowners to sell or donate up to an acre of land to charities for the provision of schooling ‘poor persons’. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/museum/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 16:23:11 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/museum/ How time flies as December & Christmas becomes yet another memory! My old granny (who knew a thing or two) always said that an English ‘winter’ really gets going in January and thus it is perhaps fitting that we have three evening talks now confirmed for ‘Winter 2023’: Crossing the Severn: An illustrated presentation of the many and varied ways of crossing the River Severn by Ray Bulmer – Thursday 12th January Part one will be a quick look at many of the 120 ways of getting ‘ower the watta’ - a phrase borrowed from Ray’s northern roots! https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/flower-show/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 16:14:15 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/flower-show/ After more than 75 years the Frenchay Flower Show will not take place in 2023 UNLESS we have more volunteers to take on the following roles: Co-Chair, Co-Secretary, Publicity, Sponsorship, Booking of stalls and attractions, Health & Safety, Schedule Manager, Help on the day. If you are interested in helping to keep this valuable local event running please contact Julie 07903 020778 or Philip 07703 161860 There will be support for anyone who takes on a role. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/school/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:32:08 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/school/ Our children in Frenchay Primary’s Ladybird Class have been making good use of their amazing new classroom… We particularly enjoy the home corner and the outside area! The canopy has been very useful with all the recent rain we have had! We are looking forward to having even more things added to our outside area in the new year. Our term started off with a bang! We were learning all about different celebrations, including Bonfire Night and Diwali. https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/fra/ Tue, 27 Dec 2022 15:06:52 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/23-01/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Happy New Year to you all. We wish you a healthy and happy 2023 and thank everyone who has supported FRA in so many ways during 2022. It was certainly an interesting year as we started to emerge from our Covid measures in time to enjoy a year that seemed to have so much sunshine, including a wonderful summer with highlights like the Flower Show and Jubilee celebrations. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/southmead-xmas-float/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 15:07:31 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/southmead-xmas-float/ The Southmead Hospital Charity Christmas Float visited Frenchay on Saturday evening (the 10th of December). This annual event collects funds for the hospital. Maternity services were being supported this year. Further details of the charity’s work can be found on their website. The group who run the float have a Facebook page. Additional photos Southmead Hospital Charity Christmas Float, Riverwood Road Southmead Hospital Charity Christmas Float, Wadham Drive Santa waves goodbye! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/commons-carols/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 13:11:12 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/commons-carols/ These will take place on Monday 19th December starting at 6.30pm, using the same format as last year with us all gathering on the common opposite the Parish Church. We will aim to provide some festive refreshments to keep us all warm and hope that you can join us. A bucket collection will be made so that contributions can be provided to the Silver band and Choir to cover their expenses and assist them with training young people. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/window-trail/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 13:08:04 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/window-trail/ After the success of last year’s Festive window trail and back by popular demand, we would like to run it again this Christmas. It brought so much pleasure last year to young and old alike. Any address receiving our Frenchay Community News is welcome to join the trail and your window can be decorated in any way that you like. This could be using stickers, glass paint, card and tissue paper, silhouettes, lights, 3D designs, drawings or paintings. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/open-evening/ Fri, 25 Nov 2022 19:18:56 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/open-evening/ More than one hundred people attended the Village Open Evening on Tuesday evening in Frenchay Primary School. The event was organised by the Residents Association with the aim of providing an informal forum to meet members of other groups and discuss future plans for Frenchay. Many of the groups were also looking to recruit new members and volunteers at the event. The principal groups represented were: Residents Association Preservation Society Parish Church (Eco Project) Unitarian Chapel (Bristol Unitarians) Village Museum (Tuckett Society) Probus Club Foxes Women’s Choir Downend & Frenchay Tennis Club Frenchay Tennis Club Yoga Group Flower Show Frenchay & Hambrook Horticulural Society On a personal note, it was a great pleasure to meet so many people in Frenchay with whom I have so far only communicated with by email! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/fra/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Thank you to those who attended our FRA Open Evening on the 22nd of November, so nice to meet everyone who attended to find out what is going on in Frenchay. After almost three years of Covid restrictions it was lovely to be able to gather and mingle at the wonderful new school, we are very grateful to Frenchay Primary School for hosting us. Christmas Carols on the Common These will take place on Monday 19th December starting at 6. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/library/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:44:17 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/library/ Christmas & New Year Opening Hours Christmas Eve: Staffed 9.30am – 1pm Christmas Day: Closed Friday 30th December: Staffed 10am – 5.30pm, Open Access 8am – 7.30pm Saturday 31st December: Staffed 9.30am – 1pm, Open Access 8am – 7.30pm Sunday 1st January - Tuesday 3rd January: Open Access only, available 8am – 7.30pm Seasonal Activities Friday 9th December: Christmas Coffee Morning and Quiz (with festive refreshments!) 10.30am onwards. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/esme/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:38:15 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/esme/ Before we went to live in France in 1980, I thought that my female friends there would be excellent cooks! Not so: many of my English friends are more talented. We were very often invited to join them for dinner and it was usually the husband who cooked the meal. My son is an excellent cook, far better than me or anyone else I know! I am always amazed when I hear what he is cooking. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/recipie/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:28:01 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/recipie/ Great for a nibble with celebration drinks with neighbours and friends over Christmas and the New Year. These are so easy and so much cheaper than buying them. Ingredients 100g soft margarine (or whatever cooking spread is your preference) 50g semolina 85g self-raising flour 75g well flavoured Cheddar cheese Salt ½ level teaspoon dry mustard Freshly ground pepper Cashew nuts for topping Method Heat oven to 180C Gas 4. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/dftc/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:23:05 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/dftc/ In August I signed up for Women’s internal doubles competition at Downend & Frenchay Tennis Club. I was very nervous but also excited - everyone is super friendly but my constant concern is I won’t be ‘good enough’ and will let down my partner. Milo and Emily had organized the competition to be played on our normal women’s club night, from 7pm to late. Over the last few years, as a complete beginner to both Tennis and sport, I’ve learnt that I most often play my best only after 1 hour of playing. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/cricket/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:16:02 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/cricket/ The Annual Presentation Dinner was held at the super facilities at Shaftesbury Park, and many thanks to Dings for the hospitality. Pride of place to Alex Stell, 1st Xl Captain, named ‘Cricketer of the Year’ following the successes on the field.. Clubman of the Year went to Rich Golding, with the Hickman ‘Players Player’, awarded to Praful Waghela. ‘Young Cricketer of the Year’ went to Joe Redgers, and Josh Tiley gained the Ian and Christine Golding Award. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/dings/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:11:19 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/dings/ Christmas is nearly upon us and almost half the season is over. We begin the ‘reverse’ fixtures with a visit to arch rivals Clifton on Saturday 17th December, we hope for a repeat of the earlier fixture and a win for Dings. Since my last ‘post’ we have continued with our winning ways including a victory Leicester Lions, but were brought down to earth by defeat in Cornwall against Redruth. We didn’t get into our stride until 30 minutes into the game, by which time we were well behind. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/bears/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 22:02:49 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/bears/ For the three members of the Bristol Bears Women who played in the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final in Auckland on the 12th November, there was ultimately disappointment as England narrowly lost out to New Zealand in a thrilling match that swung one way, then another, before being decided in the last play of the game with England just failing to cross the try-line one more time. A leading player in this drama was Bristol’s Abbie Ward, seen here jumping in that final fateful line-out She had an excellent match, contributing to several England scores and having a dominant presence around the field throughout the game. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/just-run/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:54:37 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/just-run/ Although our club is all about running and encouraging people to do more exercise, we also place huge value in bringing people together. We regularly have new members who have just moved to the area and want to meet local people and integrate into the community, and we have countless stories of members making new friends; lots bring their friends along as a way of spending time together and doing something meaningful. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/horticultural/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:51:38 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/horticultural/ On a wet and miserable evening our November talk, by Mandy Bradshaw, transported us to summer in the Cotswolds. Having first outlined her development as a garden journalist, Mandy brought us on a whistle-stop tour of 12 gardens. The main areas of interest in each were described and illustrated with her excellent photographs. Although not generally open to the public many, if not all, of the gardens open on at least one or two days a year, providing us with some tempting destinations for next summer. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/wi/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:37:16 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/wi/ In October we had a very interesting talk from the Cyber Fraud team from Avon and Somerset Police regarding telephone, text and email scams. Our members learned a lot and the main message was, “Take 5 and Tell 2.” In other words - think about what you have been told in a message for 5 minutes and do nothing until you have done so. So many scams make you feel pressured with the need to act immediately. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/probus/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:29:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/probus/ The November main meeting had a re-arranged topic, due to the illness of the previously arranged speaker. The replacement, Chris Bigg, gave a very interesting presentation on ‘Lost Bristol’, featuring many of the former prominent buildings in the City, which, for a variety of reasons, are no more. One such area was the site of the former Bristol Castle, destroyed in the 17th Century by Oliver Cromwell, and much later to be re-developed as the commercially-important Castle Street area, before being substantially destroyed by war-time bombing in the mid-20th century, and then becoming the site of the current Castle Park. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/gardening/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:22:49 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/gardening/ December weather is often the worst of the year in that it is grey, wet, cold and dank. However, if we get cold, frosty weather then the garden can be transformed into a glittering wonderland and suddenly all kinds of winter jobs are possible from winter pruning, gathering up those papery leaves and tidying up those messy borders. Autumn/Winter is the perfect time to start or tend to your own compost bin. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/museum/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 21:06:06 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/museum/ We are in the process of organising three talks and more details will be available next month. Meanwhile, please make a note of the following dates in 2023 which may be of interest; 12th January – Bridges over the River Severn 9th February – Frenchay Subscription Bridge 9th March – Zizz-zagging amongst the Dolomites Talks start at 7.30pm in The Friends Meeting House - on ‘the second Thursday’ of the month. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/south-glos/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 20:57:09 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/south-glos/ Voi Scooter - Update Thank you for all those residents who have contacted us in relation to concerns over the parking of Voi scooters. We know that inconsiderate parking has meant pavements being obstructed or blocked, causing visibility issues at junctions and generally making the village look untidy. We are keen to help alleviate some of these concerns and ensure that the benefits of the Voi scooters are balanced with the needs of local residents. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/flowers/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 20:36:28 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/flowers/ Frenchay Parish Church is still looking to recruit people to assist with flower arranging in the Church, usually on a Saturday morning, currently once a fortnight.. You would be welcomed! To find out more, use: drjudith@btinternet.com or a Church Community or Secretary contact https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/school-open-evening/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 19:50:21 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/school-open-evening/ Over sixty people came along to view the new building, and were guided around in two groups led respectively by the Headteacher, Katherine Marks and the Deputy Headteacher, Michael Backett. It is a most impressive building, as are the outside areas, in a wonderful setting, particularly at the rear where it backs on to the mature woodland, which itself is set to be an excellent resource for the school. There has been great attention to detail, and apart from the well documented green credentials, many subtle design features reflect the attention given to the mental and general well-being of both pupils and staff. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/school/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 19:39:31 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-12/school/ On Monday 7th November we held our official opening of the school. This was a wonderful morning where the school and visitors shared in the celebration of our new building. Visitors included members of the Local Authority who designed and project managed the build, BAM, the construction company, Councilors for South Gloucestershire, members of the Diocesan board for Education, members of the Frenchay Residents Association and Open the Book, local clergy, governors to name but a few! https://frenchay.news/posts/community-news/ Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:46:26 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/community-news/ Frenchay Commmunity News is a monthly printed magazine delivered to more than 1380 households. The magazine is provided for free to Frenchay addresses and is also available to non-residents for a small administration fee. This website provides a complementary publication method to the printed magazine. Much of the material is found in both publications. Articles and items of news are welcomed by the editorial committee, to be sent to: frenchaycommunitynews@gmail.com https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/library/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:35:44 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/library/ With money being tight for many of us this Winter don’t forget that most of the services on offer at Downend Library are FREE. So that means it is still FREE: To join the library To borrow books (with DVDs available to 50p for 3 weeks hire) Reserve books from across South Gloucestershire and the neighbouring authorities for collection at Downend Library No fines on childrens books Bring your pre-school child to Rhyme Time (Wednesdays 9. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/recipie/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:29:25 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/recipie/ This is the most deliciously warming soup for a cold day and serves 6 to 8. Ingredients 750g mushrooms roughly chopped, ideally darker varieties such as chestnut or Portobello 1 onion, roughly chopped 2 celery sticks, sliced 1 medium carrot, scrubbed or peeled and finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, thickly sliced 75g plain cashews nuts 2 bay leaves 2 sprigs of thyme 2 tbsp olive oil 100ml dry white wine 800ml hot vegetable stock Method Heat oven to 190C or 170C fan. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/esme/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:16:33 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/esme/ Thank you to those readers who told me that they liked my poem in last month’s magazine. That was very kind, so here is another. Eternity means ‘time without end’. It is the same word in French: we share so many important ones! I remember at a party once, a friend said to me: “An hour at a party goes by in a flash, but in a dentist’s chair, it’s an eternity! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/gardening/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:10:35 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/gardening/ Winter may be on the doorstep but there is still delight to be taken from the colours and depth in your garden and outdoor spaces. Trees are amazing things and as they sense a shift in daylight levels, they begin making changes to become more tolerant of cold temperatures. After the ravishes of the summer drought, what leaves are left, should be falling rapidly as the wind and rain increase but relish in the colours that they have and the thought of bursting back to life in spring. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/cricket/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 22:00:47 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/cricket/ The outdoor season finished in September, and serious preparations immediately took place to set up the Ground for 2023. As well as the regular ‘end of season’ works to the Squares, as part of our on-going ‘Wickets Improvement Project’, specialist Contractors arrived to completely relay three wickets on the Main Square (see photograph). The objective is to upgrade these and increase the number of ‘Top Quality’ Wickets available for more ‘top range’ matches that the Club will host in the future. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/dings/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:39:24 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/dings/ What a start to the season! As I reported last month we started the league season with two victories, including the much cherished defeat of Clifton. Following that we moved across the city to play our old friends and adversaries Old Reds in the second local derby. A very hard fought game delivered another win for Dings moving us in to the top three. This ended Red’s 2 year unbeaten record at Scotland Lane. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/preservation/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:28:57 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/preservation/ In my half-year report back in June, I mentioned that there were three topics on the radar which are of great interest to local residents. The current update is as follows: Hand-over of the Village Green areas - to be known as ‘Frenchay Parklands’; now agreed in principle between North Bristol Trust and Winterbourne Parish Council. A final date - and accompanying celebrations - will depend on the lawyers! Opening of the new Primary School - this has now been achieved and last month’s FCN contained details of a chance to look round the buildings from 3. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/just-run/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:23:24 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/just-run/ Do you ever feel lacking in enthusiasm to get outside when the skies are so grey and the wind begins to bite? As we head towards the darker, colder months of the year, sometimes you have to dig a bit deeper to find your motivation to get outside. It’s usually worth the effort and the extra layers of clothes. To begin with, maybe just look for the good and you’re sure to find it! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/horticultural/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 21:15:38 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/horticultural/ Frenchay and Hambrook Horticultural Society is a member of the Gloucestershire Federation of Gardening Societies. It was great to see the successful return of the Frenchay Flower Show on The Common in July after a 2 year absence. For many years the Show was run entirely by the Horticultural Society and we continue to support the event which is now run by Frenchay Village CIC in conjunction with the Society. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/quiz/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:48:18 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/quiz/ The Big Quiz Night is being held at Stapleton Church Hall, 23 Park Road on 19th November, 7.30pm start. Access to hall from 7.10 pm. It is aimed at being fun and suitable for all ages, with questions that span the generations. Over the last four years, tens of thousands of people have joined in The Big Quiz Night and have raised over £800,000 to support the work of Tear fund, lifting people out of extreme poverty all around the world. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/remembrance/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:43:06 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/remembrance/ 13th November at 10.30am Adjourning shortly before 11.00 to the Memorial on the outer North wall of the Church (pictured) for a ceremony of remembrance. All welcome. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/lunch/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:38:51 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/lunch/ Would you like to have your two-course Sunday Lunch cooked for you? Do you know someone on their own who would like to come with you? Or someone for whom rising costs are making life difficult? On 27th November Frenchay Parish Church will be hosting a Community Lunch. Space means we have to limit numbers, so the event will be one with tickets. However, there is no fixed price. We hope that those who can afford it will be generous and cover the cost of those can’t. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/wi/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:58:27 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/wi/ As the funeral of our late Queen, Elizabeth II, was being held on the date of our monthly meeting in September it was decided, as a mark of respect, to cancel the meeting. We received many messages of support for this decision from our members. We are looking forward to holding our October meeting and hearing from Avon and Somerset Police about avoiding scams. In November we hold our Annual Meeting, when the new committee is elected. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/probus/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:51:34 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/probus/ The Club held its Annual General Meeting on the 5th October and reported on a successful year, resuming a regular pattern of meetings after two years often interrupted by Covid precautions. New members had joined before that period of disruption, and the aim was set to seek and to welcome further members, particularly from the recently-retired taking the opportunity to socialise together. So anyone interested to know more should please make contact through frenchayprobus@outlook. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/south-glos/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:28:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/south-glos/ Frenchay C of E Primary School A huge congratulations to the staff and pupils of Frenchay C of E Primary School who have moved into their new buildings last week. Cabinet Members for Schools and Property Services, Erica Williams and myself, were given a tour of the £10.5m Passivhaus-standard facilities. We witnessed first-hand the transformational impact this new learning environment will have on our local young people.We were delighted to see that hard hats were a thing of the past and the classrooms were alive with the sound of children hard at work. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/museum/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:20:54 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/museum/ Temporary exhibitions update Our current visiting exhibition, celebrating the lives of South Gloucestershire residents of Indian Heritage, continues until the end of November (and the accompanying computerised continuous display is now working properly). Annual close-down Please note that the Museum will be closed during December & January for our annual ‘deep-clean’ and repairs/adjustments to various displays. February 2023 We will be re-opening with an exhibition about Frenchay’s Women. The current material is all about historic women and we would love to tell the story of some contemporary women, as well. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/school-book/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:10:33 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/school-book/ Have you heard about the Headmaster who was prosecuted for excessive caning? Or the Headmaster who didn’t have a pay rise for 30 years? When he complained he was given 3 months’ notice. All this and more can be found in ‘Honour Wisdom’ a short history of Frenchay Primary School. If you went to the school or know someone who did this would make a good Christmas present. Introductory offer – £2 Copies can be obtained from the museum. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/foxes/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:06:21 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/foxes/ Your local ladies’ community choir, The Frenchay Foxes, is giving a Concert in Frenchay Village Hall at 7.30pm on Sunday 6th November, and they would love you to be there! Come and enjoy a relaxed evening being entertained and uplifted by feel-good songs, including retro-pop, country and gospel numbers. There will be a bar open before the concert (doors open at 7pm) and during the interval, when there will also be a raffle to add to the occasion! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/school/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:28:24 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/school/ Frenchay Primary are enjoying their first months in the new school. It has definitely been worth the wait! The children are so excited about so many aspects of the building, the space, the new interactive teaching panels, that playground and field and the huge hall, far bigger than what we are used to! Even the new smell has been appreciated! The public art has been designed by Opus Glass in Redland and is a beautiful feature in the new library. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/parish/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:21:52 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/parish/ Tuckett Pond We have been doing some investigations into the low level of the water (appreciate we have had little rain!) which has possibly been due to tree roots in the wall and the fall of a tree damaging the wall as well. It needs to be professionally surveyed and when we last had work done to desilt the pond the contractors found it difficult with access. We will endeavour to find someone who can do the job. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/fra/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 16:48:10 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, We understand from Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) that all the final agreements are now in place for the Voluntary Village Green and Nature Reserve to be handed over to the Parish. The end of a very long and winding road, going right back to the previous RUG campaign nearly 10 years ago, when FRA made sure that the 20 acres of green space came to the village in perpetuity. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/park-stride/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:18:59 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/park-stride/ The Residents Association have also had a request from Catherine McCoy of SGC for help with the ‘park and stride’ scheme for the new school as follows; We are looking for a few more people to volunteer to help share opening and closing the gates of the Rugby Club to enable the Park & Stride site for the new Primary School. We are looking for people to help between Monday to Friday in term time to open and close the gates in the morning and afternoon at the below times: https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/pond/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:18:30 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/pond/ The Residents Association have also just been offered by BAM (new school builders) some surplus sand and building materials which has to be moved before saturday, this donation will help us with the nature reserve pond restoration work and needs moving ASAP. So if anyone has a spade, wheelbarrow and some time from 2.30pm tomorrow (Thursday 6th) afternoon please meet us by the allotment gates, it would be a shame for these materials to be wasted. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/wildflowers/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:18:06 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-11/wildflowers/ We have 500 wildflower plug plants ready to be planted on the Frenchay Hill embankment, we intend to start at 10am this Saturday morning (8th Oct) meeting by the telephone kiosk. Please bring enthusiasm, a hand trowel or fork, gardening gloves and stout outdoor shoes/boots. If we have surplus volunteers we can also seed the area by the new village hall wall and disabled access gate, we have grass and wildflower seed ready to go. https://frenchay.news/posts/travel/ Mon, 03 Oct 2022 14:34:02 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/travel/ Bike A cycle path following the route of the A4174 Avon/Bristol Ring Road provides Frenchay with good traffic-free cycling connections to many local amenities and further onward connections for the more energetic. A low-traffic route though Fishponds to the traffic-free Bristol and Bath Railway Path allows access to Bristol city centre in approx. 30 minutes. Bus Bus routes serving Frenchay include the following: No. Route Operator 19 Bath to/from Cribbs Causeway via Kingswood First Bus m3/m3x Metrobus Bristol City Centre to/from Emersons Green First Bus Y1 South Glos Lynx Bristol Bus Station to/from Chipping Sodbury via Coalpit Heath and Yate First Bus Y3/Y4 South Glos Lynx Bristol Bus Station to/from Yate via Winterbourne and Coalpit Heath First Bus 427 School Bus serving Winterbourne Academy Stagecoach West 626 Bristol to/from Wotton-under-Edge via Frampton Cotterell and Charfield Eurocoaches Dial-a-ride Kingswood Community Transport provide dial-a-ride, regular shopping trips and a doctors shuttle. https://frenchay.news/posts/libraries/ Mon, 03 Oct 2022 13:37:26 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/libraries/ South Gloucestershire Council Libraries The nearest branches are: Downend: Buckingham Gardens, Downend BS16 5TW tel: 01454 868006 email: downend.library@southglos.gov.uk Winterbourne: Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1LA tel: 01454 868006 email: winterbourne.library@southglos.gov.uk Filton: Shield Road Retail Park, Link Road, Filton BS34 7BR tel:01454 868006 email: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk South Glos Libaries provide events and services aimed at children and young people, including pre-school children. They also provide training that aims to help people access digital services. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/rev-charles-retirement/ Sat, 01 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/rev-charles-retirement/ Reverend Charles and Kath would like you to know how much the benefice of Frenchay and Stapleton means to them: its people, its activities and so many joyful times shared together. This includes his involvement with the schools in Frenchay and Stapleton parishes. However, for some time Charles has felt that there has to be a right time to hand over leadership of the benefice, and to move on to new assignments. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/village-hall-activities/ Fri, 30 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/village-hall-activities/ While we attempt to maintain the accuracy of the information below, we recomend that you contact the groups concerned to confirm the times and dates of events. Additional contact details are available on the Village Hall website Group Days/times Art Workshop Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm by agreement Bristol Steel Club 1st Saturday of the month 6.30pm – 11.00pm Card Making Workshop 2nd Wednesday of each month 7pm – 9. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/rugby-world-cup/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 21:14:53 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/rugby-world-cup/ The Women’s Rugby World Cup is set to be staged in New Zealand in October, having been postponed from 2021 due to Covid restrictions. The opening ‘pool stage’ matches, including England v. Fiji, will take place on Saturday 8th October, and will eventually lead to the Final, which is to be played at Eden park, Auckland on Saturday 12th November. England, often referred to as the ‘Red Roses’, start as favourites, based on their form over recent years, and five of the pre-tournament squad play their club rugby here in Frenchay, representing the Bristol Bears Women whose usual Home venue is Shaftsbury Park, in the shadow of the former Hospital Water Tower. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/queen-elizabeth/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 20:23:15 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/queen-elizabeth/ Following the announcement of the death of Her Majesty The Queen. The Chair of South Gloucestershire Council, Councillor Sanjay Shambhu, said the following: “On behalf of all councillors and staff of South Gloucestershire Council, I would like to express our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this very sad time. Her Majesty The Queen was a much loved and respected leader who will be remembered with great fondness. Her dedication to the nation and to the Commonwealth was both unstinting and inspirational. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/malmains/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 20:11:48 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/malmains/ Construction work has begun on 30 climate friendly and energy efficient new family homes being built at Manor Gardens, a new development located off Malmains Drive in Frenchay, South Gloucestershire. A turf-cutting ceremony was held at the site on Thursday 18 August featuring representatives from South Gloucestershire Council and Aequus Construction Limited to mark the start of the building work. South Gloucestershire Council is working in partnership with Bath & North East Somerset Council’s housing company Aequus. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/ukraine/ Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:50:16 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/ukraine/ Ever since the end of February when Russia invaded Ukraine, millions of people from across Ukraine, mostly women and children, began to move west away from the fighting. They crossed over into Hungary, Poland, Moldova and Romania where they were met by an amazing army of volunteers from across the world, eager to host them and help them. Among these organisations was Love Bristol who have stationed themselves on the border in Poland and give assistance to the refugees in finding hosts in the UK and filling out the necessary forms in order to obtain the all-important visa. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/library/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 22:00:13 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/library/ 3rd – 9th October is Libraries Week www.librariesweek.org.uk All public libraries remain free to join and most of our services are remain free as well. Here is a reminder of the opening hours and events that we run on a typical week at Downend Library. Mondays Staffed hours 10am - 5.30pm* Knitter Natter 10am (an open knitting group where you can enjoy a cuppa and a chat too! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/esme/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:53:51 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/esme/ I have just read our September ‘Frenchay Community News’ which pleased me! Thank you Alan for your poem, which I enjoyed reading! Now I hope that more of you will write one and give it to the Editor. Some people have said that they couldn’t write one. It’s not true, everyone can, and why not try? First of all, think of a subject and write the first line. Then think of some words that rhyme with the last word. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/tennis/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:50:02 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/tennis/ My tennis journey I started playing tennis 5 years ago when I was asked to join a beginners group by a friend. It was an hour a week, on a Sunday, and meant that I escaped the preparation for the school week and bath-time! I really enjoyed it and when the club moved to their new location decided that I would continue as it was still very local to home. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/recipie/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:37:46 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/recipie/ This is a wonderfully warming casserole which can be made up to 2 days ahead of serving or frozen. It will serve 6-8. Ingredients Approx 3 tablespoons sunflower oil 700 gm stewing venison cut into 2.5 cm pieces 700 gm good stewing beef cut into 2.5 cm pieces 600 gm shallot onions, skinned 2 garlic cloves, crushed 75 gm plain flour 1 litre beef stock 300 ml red wine 2 tablespoons redcurrant jelly Salt and freshly ground pepper 175 gm ready to eat dried apricots 150 ml port Freshly chopped parsley to garnish Method Preheat oven to 160C Gas 3 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/gardening/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:23:27 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/gardening/ After the most extraordinary summer with next to no rain, the storage of rainwater needs to be a priority this winter. There are a huge range of water butts available and all down pipes and gutters can be used to collect this natural resource. If you are lucky enough to have a pond a butt somewhere nearby allows topping it up without using tap water which the wildlife will not enjoy. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/dings/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:11:46 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/dings/ The season is well under way after a hectic and testing pre-season campaign. The league started on September 3rd with a home fixture against Luctonians from Herefordshire, our first competitive encounter against them. We won 29-17, gaining a try scoring bonus point. This was followed up by a greatly savoured win in the first local derby against our old adversaries Clifton. We got off to a fantastic start, scoring after 2 minutes, and rattled up 2 more tries before Clifton replied with a penalty. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/just-run/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:03:08 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/just-run/ If you are a regular reader of our Just Run articles, you’ll know we are a local ladies running community. We bring women of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels together in a social, fun environment and help them reap the benefits of increasing physical activity through jogging, walking, and running. For more info contact info@justrun.uk We like new members to try a taster session before committing to paying an annual membership fee of £30. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/cricket/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:50:36 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/cricket/ 2022 has been rightly described as the most successful season in the history of the Cricket Club, with all four Saturday ‘Senior’ Teams achieving promotion, three as ‘Champions’ of their respective Divisions. The 1st XI (shown below) became Champions of the Bristol and District League for the fourth time, while the 2nd XI won the 5th Division title. The 3rd XI followed up last season’s promotion by finishing as Runners Up in Division 10, and the 4th XI ultimately cruised to the Division 15 Title. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/wi/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:30:52 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/wi/ Frenchay WI are pleased to have had several new members join us recently. In June we welcomed Simon Barnes whose talk was entitled “Mindfulness as a tool for better mental health”. Simon helped us to find ways to clear our thoughts in order to stop worrying about those things over which we have no control thus aiding us to drop off to sleep sooner. What he told us certainly gave us all food for thought. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/probus/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:26:32 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/probus/ The Frenchay Probus Club meeting on 7 September heard a Talk entitled ‘Overland to Hong Kong’ by Patrick Howell. In 1984 Patrick, and his wife, wished to travel to Hong Kong to visit family. For various reasons they did not want to fly so they decided to go overland. With the help of the “Voyages Jules Verne” travel company, they organised a trip that went from Liverpool Street Station in London to Hong Kong by train. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/parish/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:11:50 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/parish/ Former Chairman David Fletcher has sadly passed away recently. David joined Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) in 1991 and retired from WPC 28 years later in 2019 having served a number of years as Chairman. He was also a member of The Frenchay Preservation Society and also Chairman for a long period. He moved to Mangotsfield with his wife, Sue a few years back but was happy to continue with both duties for some years. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/museum/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 19:59:42 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/museum/ Our current Exhibition is a celebration of the lives of South Gloucestershire residents of Indian Heritage. Come along to see and hear the story of their lives. Remember, entrance is free and we are open every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Frenchay - India Links There is an interesting 20th Century link between Frenchay and India, involving Alan Theodore Eden Eadon. He was born in 1898 in a house called “Elleray” in Beckspool Road, and when he died in 1973 he was buried in the Eadon family grave in Frenchay Churchyard. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/fra/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, We write our Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) feature three weeks before distribution, so as we absorb the enormity of the loss of our Queen, it is a time to reflect upon how she has inspired and served us for all of our lives. We knew that this day would come, but there is no doubt that a massive part of our lives will be missing now as we come to terms with our loss. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/school/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-10/school/ September saw an exciting transition for Frenchay Primary School. At the start of the term we welcomed 20 new pupils to the school along with our new reception children. This was the first time we began working in single age group classes, rather than the traditional mixed age classes we had previously known. The new children have settled in well and are going to be a real asset to the school. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/cricket/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/cricket/ As this is written, the Club as a whole looks in good shape. The Seniors are in good form, the Youth has waiting lists at most age groups, and that with already having one of the largest youth systems around, ranging from 5 years up to 18s. For ‘Saturdays’, the 1st Xl have its destiny is in our own hands, the 2nds and 3rds are challenging near the top, with the 4ths already having secured promotion. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/tennis/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/tennis/ First Day by Lesley The minibus collected eleven DFTC members from the Bristol Golf Centre at 9.30am. We chatted and laughed to our first comfort stop and then chatted and drank prosecco to the second stop where we had our packed lunches. We were having so much fun the driver had to remind us that there was still a long journey ahead so we laughed and chatted back onto the mini bus and all the way to Eastbourne in a haze of fun. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/library/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/library/ Gadgeteers Summer Reading Challenge – This summer’s six book challenge runs until 10th September, so still plenty of time for children to finish and get their medal, certificate and loads of other goodies! bit.ly/srcGadgeteers, #HAF2022 #libraries #Gadgeteers The Reading Agency #SummerReadingChallenge Rhyme Time – our free pre-school Rhyme Times takes place at 9.30am on Wednesdays throughout the year. No booking required, just a willingness to sing a few nursery rhymes and bang the odd drum! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/esme/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/esme/ What a wide subject! I have a large book called ‘The Soup Bible’ which has 200 recipes. I eat soup almost daily. Why? I have lost my appetite and also have difficulty in swallowing. I cook a meal almost every lunchtime, but sometimes cannot eat it. I tip it into my food processor and add juice before spinning it into soup. I make the juice using vegetable stock cubes stirred into wine. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/church/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/church/ The wait should soon be over. The PCC (Parochial Church Council) has given the go-ahead to a design which provides a ramp and new steps to the main entrance of the church. Now we are awaiting detailed plans, then need to secure the appropriate permissions and work can start. At this stage we do not know what the costs will be or whether we will be able to do some of the work ourselves. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/dings-history/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/dings-history/ Following on from the Article in the August edition of FCN about the story behind the names ‘Shaftsbury Park and The Dings Crusaders’, Geoff Haskett writes as follows: Reading in last month’s edition about the origins of the Dings Crusaders brought back many memories of the Dings. Pip n’ Jay Church ran their Saturday Kid’s Club for many years on the land across the road from Shaftesbury House. The building is home to a group of of previously homeless folk working with the Emmaus Community. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/museum/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/museum/ Autumn update The jubilee exhibition which we mounted for the summer will be taken down over the first weekend of September, so there is just time to fit-in a visit – and/or send us a personal memory of 1952-53. As late summer turns to early autumn it is very tempting to hope for an ‘Indian Summer’ to put off the thought of a difficult winter ahead. Meanwhile, we are preparing to replace the Platinum Jubilee memorabilia with an exhibition of Indian Culture. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/dings/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/dings/ Looking ahead to the New Season at ‘The Dings’ Well, the first of our pre season ‘friendlies’ gave us a very salutary lesson, Being hammered by the famous Pontypool in front of a big crowd, many of whom had travelled over the bridge and added to the great atmosphere. ‘Ponty’ play in the Welsh championsip, a tier above us. In fact they have won the league for the last three years, but for some inexplicable reason the WRFU will not promote them to the Premiership. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/preservation/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/preservation/ Tuckett Field Last month’s edition (August) of Community News contained a special report by FRA on Biodiversity in Frenchay, including a brief reference to Tuckett Field as ‘Area 3’ of that report. So, I thought it would be very appropriate to follow-up with an extract from the book entitled “A Grand Tour of Frenchay” by John Lucena, which was first published by FPS some 40 years ago in 1981 and produced in association with Winterbourne Parish Council. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/probus/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/probus/ On the 24th August, the ‘Summer Lunch’ will have been held at the Bristol Golf Club at Cribbs Causeway, where there are wonderful views of the Severn estuary and of the two bridges. On the 7th September there will be a Talk at Frenchay Village Hall to be given by Patrick Howell with the title ‘Overland to Hong Kong’, and on the 21st of the month, there will be an informal lunch at Shaftsbury Park. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/fra/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, We hope that by the time you receive this magazine you have returned rested and relaxed from any vacations, this glorious summer reminds us of 1976 and has been very sunny indeed. When we helped with the establishment of the new community Orchard (gifted by the NHS/NHBT as a Queen’s Jubilee Canopy scheme) we probably could have told you that it was going to be a long, hot and dry summer. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/just-run/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/just-run/ Run leader Julie shares her running story and talks about how her participation in the sport has inspired 3 generations of her family to take part. “I started running when our local ladies running club started up as a bit of a joke, really not expecting to continue for long but things changed, and I realised that I could run. My first running event was the Frenchay 10k and the support I received was amazing. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/school/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/school/ September is seeing the final touches being carried out to our wonderful new school building for Frenchay Primary School! We cannot wait to move in on the 14th and open officially on the 19th September. Year 4 and 5 children had one final visit before we broke up for the summer where they met Toby Savage, Head of the Council, along with Councillors Erica Williams and Ben Burton. They were able to see the walls beginning to be painted, all with natural colours to go with the natural feel of the school, chosen by Katherine Marks, due to the location of the school next to the conservation area. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/south-glos/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/south-glos/ Frenchay Church of England School Update As staff and students were looking forward to the summer holidays, I joined a group of students and teachers from Frenchay Church of England Primary School to visit the new school site. We were given a tour of the brand new facilities, enabling us to take a last peek before building work is completed over the summer break. The school will officially move in during September. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/gardening/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/gardening/ It’s hard to believe that summer has matured, especially as it only seems like yesterday that the daffodils were dancing in the breeze. With the changing of the seasons there are lots of jobs to do in the garden in September. With autumn approaching and summer almost over, there are plenty of tasks to tackle to get ahead before the cold, harsh winter months. But less about that – Let’s enjoy the colours and hues of summer we still have! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/wi/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-09/wi/ In line with the National Federation of WIs, Frenchay WI holds 11 meetings a year so, instead of a regular evening meeting in August, and at the time of writing, some of our members are looking forward to going for an Afternoon Tea - something that has become an annual outing for us. The speaker for our meeting in July, unfortunately, had to cancel due to the long travel time on what was to be the hottest day of the year. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/recipie/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/recipie/ Tomatoes Preheat oven to 220C/Gas 7 Ingredients 500 gm on-the-vine cherry tomatoes cut in half 2 teaspoons Maldon salt or 1 teaspoon table salt ¼ teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon dried thyme 2 tablespoons olive oil Method Set the tomatoes side by side on an ovenproof dish and sprinkle with the salt, sugar, thyme and olive oil. Put them in the oven and immediately turn off. Leave the tomatoes in the oven overnight or for a day without opening the oven. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/cricket/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/cricket/ As I write this article, the Ground is extremely busy with two matches being played most days, and so much credit for that going to our dedicated volunteer Grounds Team. The 1st Xl continue to make solid progress into the second half of the season, while the 2nds, 3rds, 4ths and new 5th Xl are also faring well, giving lots of our young players extremely valuable experience and opportunities. In addition, the newly formed, (young) Womens Hardball Xl are well in contention in the inaugural season of both the Gloucestershire Senior (Sunday) League and the ‘Midweek’ T/20 League, while the Womens Softball Team are also well placed. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/tennis/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/tennis/ Last year DFTC members were sharing with me, while we were playing tennis, their yearnings to get away and have fun. They were suggesting group visits to spa weekends and tennis retreats. So it was decided to see if any of the tennis women fancied a trip to The 2022 Rothesay International Eastbourne Tennis Tournament in June. Rules around social distancing were becoming less severe, so, wearing my ‘Senior Project Manager’ hat, I promptly sent an invite to all the ladies interested in the Eastbourne trip, to a wine and crisps planning session in October 2021. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/esme/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/esme/ I expect that most of you reading this have a favourite painter. Everyone who knows me realises that I am a devoted fan of the French Artist Claude Monet His paintings are said to be the most well known and loved works of art in the world. I have many books full of copies of his most famous works. Just a short time looking at them always lifts my spirits. Like music, art is a wonderful healer. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/dings/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/dings/ The ‘Pre Season Friendly’ season is upon us, a time to hone our new moves and welcome new players. All the hard work of the previous summer recess is now put to the test. I remember ‘in my day’, our warm up run involved running up and down the slope to the Dower House. Things are much more scientific now! In fact if I was playing now, I would have to be substituted immediately after the pre match warm up. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/probus/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/probus/ Frenchay Probus Club continues to meet, but it had to cope with some late re-arrangements for the meeting on 6th July. The original speaker unfortunately fell and broke his hip in the prior week, and then the replacement speaker had to pull out on the day before, due to Covid. However in stepped local member Geoff Pegler to give a most entertaining talk on ‘My Life in Music’, illustrated by some very accomplished playing of three very different instruments, in turn, the violin, the accordion, and the bagpipes. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/flower-show/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/flower-show/ The sun was out, the sky so blue, and a wonderful atmosphere prevailed on a very special day for our Frenchay Community. Any concerns we had about people coming to support the show after two years of pandemic restrictions, proved totally unfounded. Long queues quickly formed at both entry gates and very soon the Common was alive with literally thousands of enthusiastic visitors! The Flower Show was back!! The Show this year was graciously opened by four local Princesses; Their ‘Highnesses,’ Freya-Mai Bateman; Darcey Jefferies; Alice and Emma Lambert. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/fra/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Special Report on Biodiversity in Frenchay You will be aware from many of our previous reports that biodiversity is a very important theme to our purpose, Neil Falango and Tony Joiner on the Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) committee have been very active in putting these plans together with a lot of assistance from Robert and Sarah Beetham who are our ‘go to’ experts in the field, literally! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/roland-jempson/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/roland-jempson/ It is with sadness that we share the news that Roland Jempson has died, aged 91. He was a well-known figure in Frenchay, especially among those who lived near him and also in the church community. His funeral service will be in the Parish Church at 12.00 noon on Tuesday 2 August. I first met Mr Jempson - as he was then known - about forty years ago, when he started worshiping in Frenchay Parish Church, not long after Revd Roger Thomas became our Rector. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/school/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/school/ Katherine Marks, Headteacher, writes: Unicorn class are enjoying the final few weeks together in Reception. Lots of learning has been taking place and we have been making the most of the warm, sunny weather by spending lots of time outside. Last week, we enjoyed taking part in science day where we had to create a bird’s nest. We worked together in small groups to collect everything we needed to create the nest. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/shaftsbury/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/shaftsbury/ While Frenchay adapts to a major transformation with the development of the former Hospital site, it remains a village very conscious and proud of its special history. So too it is with the Dings Crusaders who have brought the excellent facility of Shaftsbury Park to Frenchay, but always respecting the episodes of important social history that have given rise to its present fruition. Much of the content of this article derives from the commendable book by Ian Haddrell, with his permission and co-operation, entitled ‘The History of Dings Crusaders Rugby Club’, and aided and abetted by long-standing member, a player over several decades dating from the late 1960s, subsequently an enthusiastic supporter and administrator, the Reverend Canon Trevor Denley. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/south-glos/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/south-glos/ Please note that we have already reported the worn road markings at the M32 roundabout that we know many residents will use daily. As this roundabout forms part of the motorway network, permission and collaboration is required from Highways England in advance of any works. We hope these lines will be refreshed quickly. South Gloucestershire Council has just launched an innovative new way for residents to report potholes and other issues on roads, footpaths and cycleways in Frenchay and the rest of South Gloucestershire. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/wi/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/wi/ Frenchay WI are pleased to have had several new members join us recently. In June we welcomed Simon Barnes whose talk was entitled “Mindfulness as a tool for better mental health.” Simon helped us to find ways to clear our thoughts in order to stop worrying about those things over which we have no control thus aiding us to drop off to sleep sooner. What he told us certainly gave us all food for thought! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/library/ Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-08/library/ Something for everyone this Summer Holiday at Downend Library Looking to keep the children occupied this August? Then bring them along to sign up for Gadgeteers - the FREE Summer Reading Challenge for 4- 11 year olds. It started on 9th July and children can join at any point throughout August. They get stickers, pencils, packets of seeds, fridge magnets and loads more rewards for each pair of books they read. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/bells/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/bells/ FRENCHAY BELL TOWER OPEN JULY 9TH 2-4 PM Come and watch the Church bells being rung! There will be expert ringers available if you would like to “have a go” (8yr+ to try ringing.) Bellringing is a team activity that stimulates the brain and helps keep you fit’ The challenge and pleasure of ringing is to ring with other people, from rounds to methods - everyone is important – a real team effort. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/cricket/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/cricket/ June was a really busy month at the Club for all of our Teams, although in the later stages, the weather pattern turned rather unpredictable, with the occasional showers provided additional challenges for the Groundstaff and Team Managers, with last minute postponements. The 1st Xl are keeping pace at the upper end of the Table, and the 2nds have now recorded welcome victories. The 3rds, 4ths and newly formed 5th Xl are doing good work, providing cricketing opportunities for young and more experienced alike. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/esme/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/esme/ This is my 221st article in this magazine, so please forgive me if I ever repeat myself. It would have been the 222nd, but, one month during the pandemic, there was no magazine. I have not featured our lovely Queen and her family before, but we have just had her special weekend! She certainly deserves all the praise that she is receiving. My French friends really envy us our Royalty! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/flower-show/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/flower-show/ By the time you receive this the Show will only be days away. Final preparations are being made and soon the marquee will appear on the Common. It is not too late to enter, entries will be taken on the Friday before the Show between 4.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m. and Saturday morning on the day of the Show between 8.00 a.m. and 9.55 a.m. Remember that entries for some classes have to be in on the Wednesday before the Show to enable time to allocate spaces and display items such as photographs, all the information you require is on the Frenchay Flower Show website. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/tennis/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/tennis/ I joined Downend and Frenchay tennis club 4 years ago when I moved to Bristol from North Devon. I didn’t know many people when I first arrived in the city so, having played tennis when I was younger, I decided to join a tennis club. I was a bit apprehensive as I wasn’t sure if the club would be as enjoyable as my previous one. Hwever I didn’t need to be as when I arrived at the first club night everyone was very welcoming and easy going, sharing in a bit of banter at the occasional accidental winner or serve that hits the back fence. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/gardening/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/gardening/ July is a month to reflect on your hard work and to enjoy the fruits of your labour. It is also a fantastic month for sowing seeds, as both soil and air temperatures are high. The long, warm days with good light levels speed up the germination process, helping you to extend your season of cropping in the vegetable patch and boost stocks of perennials, biennials and indoor exotics in the ornamental garden. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/jubilee/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/jubilee/ Congratulations and appreciation to all who organised and took part in a wide variety of musical and other events to mark this unique occasion. The events on Frenchay Common on the 4th June featured The Concord Band, (above), a combined choir of Frenchay Foxes and the Church Choir (below), and ‘The Provision’ Party Time at Frenchay House (below) Mozart could not have envisaged a finer setting for his Clarinet Quintet than Frenchay Chapel on a sunny Jubilee afternoon. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/recipie/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/recipie/ Prep 20 min Cook 30 min Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1kg adult spinach, or frozen whole leaf spinach Salt 2 tbsp olive oil 1 red onion or leek, finely chopped 4 spring onions, chopped 300g feta, crumbled 25g dill, chopped 20g mint, leaves removed and chopped 3 sprigs oregano, chopped 50g bulgur wheat (optional) 2 eggs, beaten Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon Nutmeg 250g filo pastry Oil, to brush (spray oil is easier) Method Trim the spinach and wash well, then roughly chop. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/just-run/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/just-run/ To take running kit on holiday or not. That is a question many of us face if we’re fortunate enough to get away when we are packing for our holidays. For some it is the perfect opportunity to explore new places and enjoy the experience without the usual distractions of day-to-day commitments. For others, the trainers get packed only to sit in a corner or cupboard for the duration waiting for the “I’ll go tomorrow” thought to become “I went today” or, more likely, “I should have left them behind and avoided the guilty feelings. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/museum/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/museum/ Around 100 people (adults & children) visited the Museum’s stall on The Common as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations on Saturday 4th June and enjoyed the activities prepared by Carol Thorne and her team. Copies of a new book on the Village School proved very popular and there was lots of interest in an old typewriter (pre-querty) and the ‘bagatelle’ game (no batteries required for either). The classic booklet on ‘A Grand tour of Frenchay’ was also popular with several groups of children who went off exploring the Village - all returning sometime later with triumphant tales of following a map, briefly getting lost and discovering new places along the way… https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/dings/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/dings/ The summer recess is drawing to a close and pre season training will now be under way. Following our best season ever last time out we are hoping to build on those really good foundations. The league set up has finally been resolved and we are now in National League 2, South West (level 4). Our travelling is much reduced, the furthest North we go is Newport, Shroshire, and the furthest South West is to our old friends Redruth. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/school/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/school/ The new school building is taking shape with most of the triple glazed windows now in place. These take 2 to 3 days to fit for each classroom due to their size and weight! The wooden panels are being fitted to the top half of the building now, ready for more insulation next week. This helps to fully insulate the building like a thermos flask for our Passivhaus status. These will then be rendered. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/probus/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/probus/ Frenchay Probus Club continues to hold monthly Presentation Talks, the most recent being a very interesting talk on ‘Creating Concorde’, made all the more engaging because the speaker, Chris Bigg, had spent his working life at Filton working mainly on the project, and as a result, that made it a very personal and well-informed account of this remarkable story.. Next up on the speaker’s front, is a Talk on Wednesday 6th July entitled “My Year in Russia”, to be given by Dr. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/fra/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Jubilee Picnic Thank you to everyone who joined us on the common by the church, it was a very enjoyable afternoon and all the feedback seems very positive. For the hard working Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) team we are inspired by your enthusiasm for more community events, so we will definitely plan some more. If anyone wants to help the FRA team we have opportunities and projects galore, the same applies to the wonderful Frenchay Museum. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/south-glos/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/south-glos/ Jubilee Celebrations We were really pleased to see so many residents taking the opportunity to enjoy the various events that were organised to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Personally, I had two very different experiences; sitting in the sunshine late into the evening on the Thursday followed by a more ‘traditional’ cold and blustery street party on the Sunday afternoon. The real positive was to see such great community spirit and children playing out in the streets. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/wi/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/wi/ Our meeting in May was our Resolutions evening when a member gave us an outline of what was being proposed - Women and Girls with ASD & ADHD - under-identified, under-diagnosed, misdiagnosed, under-supported. The resolution was unanimously passed and will go to the National Federation of Women’s Institutes Annual Meeting and, if adopted, will go on to form the basis of a WI campaign In true WI fashion, Frenchay WI held a Jubilee Afternoon Tea for members in the week after the Bank Holiday Weekend. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/library/ Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-07/library/ Visit Downend (or any South Gloucestershire/Bristol) library and become a Gadgeteer with the Summer Reading Challenge 2022 - it’s FUN and FREE! All children aged 4 - 11 are invited to take part! Children read books over the summer holiday and collect stickers (including some stinky ones!) to complete their special Gadgeteers poster and get a medal and certificate. Join Gadgeteers, Summer Reading Challenge 2022 at a South Gloucestershire library from Saturday 9 July to Saturday 10 September and pick up your FREE bag of Gadgeteer Goodies* and see the difference the Summer Reading Challenge makes to your child’s reading: https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/picnic/ Thu, 02 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/picnic/ You are invited to our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Village Picnic Afternoon Saturday 4th June from Midday Village Common opposite the Parish Church Live music with the Concord Wind Band from 2.30pm. Accompanied by the Church Choir for some Hymns, Popular ‘sing along’ tunes followed by patriotic songs. Live Jazz from youth band The Provision from 3.30pm. Refreshments, tea, coffee and squash will be for sale. The Church will be open for visitors. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/flower-show/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/flower-show/ Just one month to go now until the Frenchay Flower Show returns to the village on Saturday 9th July starting at 12.30pm. If you are looking to submit an entry for one of the Show’s competitions please use the entry form which was included in last month’s edition of the Frenchay Community News. If you have lost or recycled your copy fear not as you can download a form from the Frenchay Flower Show website www. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/museum/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/museum/ Do you remember the Coronation? Most people had no television and I stood outside the garage in Frome Valley Road and watched the procession on a tiny television - no sound. Then we had a street party with the children in fancy dress. I went as Queen Elizabeth 1st and my brother went as King Farouk (he was constantly in the news at that time). The Museum is collecting an archive of local memories and we would like your contribution. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/cricket/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/cricket/ The Season is now well under way, and the Club has been a really busy place. All the Senior sides are now well into their respective League campaigns, and it is good to see some new faces amongst the players, with the Club commitment to ‘mixed gender’ sides as strong as ever. It is also especially good to see two Frenchay ‘Hardball’ Womens Teams, playing midweek locally, and across Gloucestershire on Sunday afternoons. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/gardening/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/gardening/ June is the month where sunshine is at its most. It may not be the hottest month but this is when plants are given their most productive time to grow and thrive. New plants in the vegetable garden and bedding or container plants actually to do most of their growing now whilst light levels are high and temperature constraints lowest. Once larger plants have established there should be ample water from winter in the soil to see them through in late summer. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/recipie/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/recipie/ I always have a bag of frozen squid in my freezer as a standby. This recipe makes a great snack with drinks, a starter for 4, or a quick supper for 2 with a salad. Make the garlic mayonnaise by mixing ½ a clove of garlic and 100g best quality mayonnaise and adjust according to taste and make more if you feel it will not be enough. Mix thoroughly cover and put in the fridge. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/just-run/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/just-run/ Are you a “reluctant runner”? It’s always nice to hear how our community running club has impacted on our members. Here’s Sarah’s story: “Having joined the Frenchay ‘JustRun’ group in 2019 to increase my fitness levels and general health, starting with the Couch to 5K group, I fairly quickly got the ‘run-bug’ and progressed to the 5 to 10K group. It’s fair to say that initially I was a ‘reluctant runner’ and doubted I could manage 1K let alone 5K, which makes it all the more remarkable that I have managed to run a couple of much longer distances raising money for charity in the process over the last couple of years. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/nigel-aylett/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/nigel-aylett/ We’re sorry to have to report the passing of Nigel Aylett. Nigel came to Frenchay as a boy when his father bought Riverside Cottage and the derelict Frenchay Mill in 1946. His father restored the Mill buildings, and eventually it became Nigel’s home. He was a keen supporter of the Frenchay Tuckett Society, serving on the committee for many years. He also served as a custodian in the museum, and for a number of years he and Anne welcomed custodians to the Old Mill for their annual Summer Tea. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/preservation/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/preservation/ The caption on the front cover of the April edition of Community News reads “Up and Running Again” - perhaps hinting at the beginning of some kind of return to a post-Covid normality. I am drafting this piece whilst waiting for my second booster jab at the GP surgery, which reminds me that we are still waiting for news of a Doctor’s surgery on this side of the river Frome… No news either, on a firm date for the handover of the Village Green Land, to be known as Frenchay Parklands. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/probus/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/probus/ Frenchay Probus Club reports some very successful recent meetings, including the musical entertainment of ‘Wind in the Willows’, cleverly conceived and admirably performed by the two visiting presenters, then followed by an excellent buffet lunch for members and their lady guests.. The main May meeting was a talk on a trek in Nepal that totally engaged the audience.. Next up on the 1st June is a talk on Concorde. To enquire further if interested, use frenchayprobus@outlook. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/10k/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/10k/ The Frenchay 10k Charity Road Race went ahead on Sunday 24th April with a field of over 700 a record field of over 700 runners entered. The race passed very smoothly, and we were delighted, as a race committee, with the incredibly positive feedback we received from runners and spectators alike. As always, all participants received a commemorative mug, much sought after, and a regular feature over the years. The weather on the day was glorious, and everyone was delighted to see the race being held being held again, after a three-year break because of the pandemic. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/school/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/school/ We need your help! Looking for a new challenge? Got great DIY skills which you can put to good use? Want to learn new skills in a unique environment? Want to be part of a friendly and supportive community? Well, we could have the job that you have been looking for! Frenchay Primary are excited about moving into our new passvhaus school building in September 2022. We are looking for an experienced handyman or caretaker who can support with locking up the school in the evenings, carrying out checks as well as doing maintenance that is required. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/south-glos/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/south-glos/ Beckspool Road – Traffic Calming As many residents will be aware, the developers of the former Frenchay Hospital site installed traffic calming features on Beckspool Road, and safety and effectiveness concerns of these build outs were raised by residents and motorists. A public consultation took place for 3 weeks between 4th January 2021 and 25th January 2021, where many respondents were in favour of replacement measures, including lengths of proposed waiting restrictions, traffic calming and installing provisions to protect the eroding common. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/wi/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/wi/ Frenchay WI are pleased to report that our recent meetings have attracted many members - new and old. It is really lovely to see so many ladies starting to live a more normal life now that the dreaded virus seems to be waning - long may that continue! Our speaker in April was Margot Cevik - she told us all about Harriett Tubman who helped slaves escape to freedom by means of the ‘Underground Railroad’. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/library/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/library/ Rhyme Time - from June our FREE weekly Rhyme Times will return to being drop ins, so anyone with pre-school children can come along on Wednesdays at 9.30am. No booking required. The next Lego Club will take place on Saturday 11th June @ 10.30am. These monthly sessions will also return to being drop ins from this date, so no booking required for them either. Coffee Mornings - fancy a coffee and chat? https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/esme/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/esme/ Yes, on the last day of April, my family joined me in celebrating this event. What fun we had! On the previous Sunday, I shared a special service in Frenchay Church, and kind friends had the spire lit for me on the 30th. How lucky I am! I still have a party to look forward to, to be given by my neighbours who are also my friends. So please don’t dread getting older: it is superb! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/dings/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/dings/ News from the Dings The season is now finished, a short summer break and we then look forward to pastures new. As we go to press we are still not sure of who we will be playing, but it will still be at level 2. We finished the season very stromgly, winning 10 of our last 12 matches. When you consider most teams in the league are ‘Town’ teams our 7th place finish is very creditable. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/fra/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-06/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations 4th June Picnic Afternoon Although the Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) have promoted this as extensively as possible, you should have this June magazine in time for the full details. On Saturday 4th June, on the common opposite Frenchay Parish Church from lunchtime onwards, FRA are organising a picnic afternoon to which you are all invited. We will have live music from the Concord Band and Church Choir to sing along to, followed by a young jazz band called ‘The Provision’ whose guitarist is a young lad from Frenchay Park. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/cricket/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/cricket/ With the start of May comes the beginning of Fixtures for our various Teams in the ‘Senior Leagues’. The 1sts will again be challenging in the Bristol and District League (B&D) ‘Senior’ Division, while the 2nds hope for a change of fortune in B&D Division 5. Meantime, the 3rds address new challenges in Division 10 and the 4ths Division 15 of the B&D, both of which will provide good development opportunities for our mixed age and gender sides. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/tennis/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/tennis/ Skiing Holiday in March 2022 This winter marked the first Tennis Club ski trip to France, which is hoped will become an annual event, organised by club member Chris Horne. I was lucky enough to be able to go, along with 8 other DFTC club members. We spent a week in Tignes enjoying the skiing, beautiful sunshine and of course, the après-ski! We stayed in a catered chalet, for just our group, which had wonderful views and was near the centre and the ski lifts. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/gardening/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/gardening/ After a wonderful display of spring bulbs an application of liquid fertiliser after they have flowered will encourage good flowering next year. After the joy of the spring display comes the difficult bit, allowing the foliage to die down naturally so the goodness is absorbed into the bulb. This is normally about 6 weeks and to be honest is a bit of a mess but it’s worth it for next years’ display. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/just-run/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/just-run/ We love this time of year at Just Run because the light evenings, better weather and being dryer under foot mean we intersperse our pavement and lamppost lit routes with more off-road routes taking in the best of what the Frenchay area has to offer. From our meeting point every Monday at 7pm in the car park of Dings Crusaders Rugby Club (Shaftesbury Park, BS16 1LG) we can quickly find ourselves on tree lined paths for part or most of our routes. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/lizzie-tuckett/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/lizzie-tuckett/ The 31st of May this year marks 150th anniversary of the death of Lizzie Tuckett. Born in The Old House Frenchay in 1837, Elizabeth Fox Tuckett was the eldest surviving daughter of Francis and Mariana Tuckett. Lizzie was educated at the Quaker Girls’ School in Cedar Hall, and became an artist, and the author of many books. She travelled in the Alps with her brother Frank Tuckett, who was a prominent Alpinist, and she wrote a number of books about Alpine exploration. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/recipie/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/recipie/ Herb Sauce Ingredients 4 tbsps chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsps chopped fresh dill 4 tbsps low-fat crème fraiche 4 tbsps light mayonnaise 4 spring onions, finely shredded 1 tbsp chopped capers Juice of ½ lemon Salt and freshly ground pepper A little caster sugar Method Mix all the ingredients together and season to taste adding a dash of sugar. Leave covered in the fridge. Fish Cakes Ingredients 450g main-crop potatoes, peeled Salt and freshly ground pepper 225g smoked undyed haddock fillet 225g fresh haddock fillet a good 25g butter 3 heaped tbsps chopped fresh parsley 1 heaped tbsp chopped fresh dill 2 good tbsps light mayonnaise a few drops of Tabasco sauce to taste fresh white bread crumbs Method Preheat oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6 Cut the potatoes into even sized pieces and cook in boiling salted water until tender. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/museum/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/museum/ Opportunities to volunteer without becoming a committee person! The recent planning permission for a new extension announced last month has put a ‘spring in the step’ of the committee and justified the ambition to do better than just replace the old garage and provide an inside toilet. In fact, we are looking at a whole new way of working with the help of our external mentors. Colleagues at South West Museums - Development group, are helping us with an ‘Organisational Health Check’ as part of the long-awaited Re-Accreditation process (delayed by Covid). https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/probus/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/probus/ Upcoming talks: 4 May: ‘Trek to Everest Base Camp’ by Nigel Wright 1 June: ‘Creating Concorde‘ Interested in joining Probus? Contact frenchayprobus@outlook.com. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/school/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/school/ ‘Easter in a Box’ During the lead up to Easter Frenchay Primary children were incredibly lucky to have a visit from local clergy, members of the congregation, foundation/governors and Bristol Schools Connect. These adults gave up their time to come and work with the children from year 3 and year 4 to lead ‘Easter in a Box’: the Easter story, split into 6 movie scenes with artefacts and activities for the children to handle and discuss. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/south-glos/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/south-glos/ As usual it has been a busy few months and we are grateful for residents bringing a few local issues to our attention. Please continue to let us know of problems in the local area and we will do our best to have them resolved. We would like to thank those residents who have expressed an interest in supporting Ukrainian families. South Gloucestershire Council has a dedicated website. The website has a wealth of information, also with links to translated articles, and explains how you are able to assist with this effort. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/village-hall/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/village-hall/ In February’s Frenchay News we outlined our plans for improvements to the Village Hall utilising the Section 106 funding from the Redrow development. Having had a detailed survey and advice from a Bristol based firm of architects we are now in a position to finalise our suggested plans for the structural changes to the Hall and have arranged a pre-planning meeting with the Council to discuss these prior to a formal planning application being submitted. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/wi/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/wi/ Frenchay WI are pleased to report that our Spring Meal last month, including the Spring Surprise (a seasonal version of Secret Santa) was very successful and enjoyed by everyone, Unfortunately The Filtonaires were unable to entertain us due to some of them having the dreaded Covid so a quiz was quickly arranged which members found great fun. At our next meeting, on 16 May, members will be able to discuss and vote for the resolution (Women and Girls with ASD & ADHD - under-identified, under-diagnosed, misdiagnosed, under-supported) that has been proposed to go forward to the National Federation of WIs for action. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/library/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/library/ Save money – it is now FREE to reserve books from the Libraries West catalogue of over 2 million items and have it delivered to Downend (or any other South Gloucestershire) Library without paying a penny. Reservations can be placed online at librarieswest.org.uk, on the Libraries West App or by staff on-site. Not everyone has Netflix All or Disney+ so it is good to know that from April 2022 our DVD collection is now borrowable for just 50p each for a three week hire. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/esme/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/esme/ Unlike myself, I hope that you eat proper meals! Hopefully my family will join me for lunch at the end of April, for my first restaurant visit for several years! I have booked a French restaurant in Clifton Village, and my son and his ‘clan’ are coming down from York and Manchester, whilst my daughter and her family are coming from quite a distance too! This has led me to think about French food. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/flower-show/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/flower-show/ To help with costs and the environment this year’s flower show schedule and entry form is available from the Frenchay Flower Show website. There is a copy of the classes with basic information in this issue of Frenchay Community News. Please pull out the centre pages and keep for information or pass it on to someone you know that doesn’t live in the area. If you are unable to download an entry form from the website, forms will be available when you register. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/pcsos/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/pcsos/ Perhaps you have already come across Frenchay’s two Police Community Suport Officers (PCSOs) as they move around the area, but if not, please be introduced to Bianca Rotariu (seen here on the left) and Sam Norster (on the right), sometimes patrolling on foot, sometimes as here on their bikes, or otherwise keeping in touch with the local community. So, what exactly is a PCSO? The role was created by the Police Reform Act 2002. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/dings/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/dings/ As the season draws to a close and as at mid-April we have extended our winning run to 7 matches. This included a comprehensive defeat of Henley, our first win over them since 2012, cementing our 8th place in the league, and our best showing in the National Leagues. At the beginning of April, we held our celebration lunch of Remembrance for those who passed during the Pandemic and for who, due to the restrictions in place, we were not able to hold our normal farewell. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/fra/ Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-05/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Well I suspect April has been a more interesting month than anticipated, the Covid bug has definitely had a sting in the tail for many of us and I hope that everyone has come through unscathed. If you are over 75 please ensure that you get the new booster to ensure maximum protection. Last month we highlighted the Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) community lunches, to which several have responded, so we will look to re-establish those as soon as it is safe to do so. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/gardening/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/gardening/ In April the weather can still remain unpredictable and we can have anything from a heatwave to ground frosts and sleet; be prepared. Now is the time to really start off new plants and seedlings, watch trees and shrubs bursting back into life. Sowing from seed can be time-consuming and tricky but also very rewarding. If this sounds a bit daunting – the web and garden centres have a great choice of plug plants for bedding and vegetables. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/recipie/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/recipie/ This is a quick and easily prepared meal for 2 cooked in less than an hour. For 4 double everything but only use an extra 250ml of liquid. Ingredients 1 tsp oil ½ red onion chopped ½ inch ginger chopped ½ to ¾ tsp cumin seeds 3 cloves of garlic chopped 1 tsp coriander powder ½ tsp garam masala or use curry powder or other spice blend of choice like berbere or cajun ½ tsp turmeric ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ to ½ tsp cayenne/red chilli powder 2 tomatoes chopped 400gm can chickpeas drained or other beans 150gm chopped peeled sweet potato or pumpkin or other squash 500ml water (substitute 240ml of coconut milk for creamier curry) ¾ tsp salt 50gm chopped or baby spinach 1 tsp lemon juice Method Heat the oil in a deep sided frying pan or skillet (with a lid). https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/book-exchange/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/book-exchange/ For several years I have looked after the telephone box at the top of Frenchay Hill, sorting the books and passing on surplus books to charity shops and a charity that sends educational books to African schools and colleges. The Book exchange was started to enable people to pass on books they have read and enjoyed to new readers. It is not a dumping ground for unwanted books to save going to the charity shop. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/flower-show/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/flower-show/ Just 3 months to go It’s just 3 months to go until this year’s Frenchay Flower Show which will be on Saturday 9th July so please put the date in your diaries and start planning your fruit, vegetables and flowers! The Committee are busy finalising the schedule for the Show, booking stalls and finding sponsors. We are planning some new Jubilee themed classes for schools and under 16’s but don’t forget to let us know if you have any ideas for competitions, stalls or entertainment that you would like us to try and include. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/cricket/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/cricket/ This month sees the start of the new outdoor season, with a series of Friendly matches set up for the various ‘Senior’ Teams to hone their skills in preparation for the start of their respective League campaigns. As well as the regular four ‘mixed gender’ Saturday sides, new this year are two Women’s ‘Hardball Teams. The more experienced side will be playing in a new ’35 Overs per side’ Competition for Gloucestershire Clubs, which is aimed at the older County level Girls and Women. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/esme/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/esme/ As April is my birthday month, I am being self-indulgent and writing about two of my favourite subjects – the artist Claude Monet and waterlilies. Monet was born in Paris in 1840, but his famous work was achieved in Giverny. This is where the River Seine meets the River Epte, and is just 75 kilometres north of Paris. Monet and his family bought a large house there in 1872. Eighteen years later he bought a strip of marshland across the road and diverted a stream to form a pond. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/just-run/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/just-run/ Although we all meet as a club Monday and run together, each of us has a different motivation for coming along. It might be to meet new friends, get fit, lose weight, improve mental health, run faster etc. the reasons are endless and completely individual for each member. The aim of the club is not to compete against each other but celebrate each person’s goals and achievements. We choose one member each month who stands out and this month it is Harriet. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/museum/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/museum/ Planning permission for a new extension! It was ‘third time lucky’ in our attempts to persuade the planners of the need for an extension to West Lodge and perhaps a good omen that the formal permission was issued in time for the AGM of Frenchay Tuckett Society (FTS) last month. This milestone has been achieved with the help and support of Councillor Ben Burton who joined us for a presentation to South Glos Planning Committee, who made the actual decision on 3rd March. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/dings/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/dings/ Late February and early March were fertile weeks for us at Dings, for the first time this season the First XV managed a run of 3 consecutive victories, scoring 19 tries in the process. The 2nd XV also had a notable win against table toppers Clifton, 53 - 0, and the thirds also going well. Shaftesbury Park has been very busy in recent weeks, continuing to host the Bristol Bears Ladies and the Bristol Bear Cubs. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/probus/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/probus/ With our programme of regular meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at the Village Hall now in full swing, we were highly entertained on 2nd March by a talk by Cyril Routley featuring his amazing collection of old signs – road signs, product adverts, warning signs, direction indicators etc. Real social history. Nostalgia is not what it used to be! Looking forward to our April programme: 6 April Speaker: Fred and Diana Ward: ‘The History of Mr Punch’ 20 April Speaker: Tim Lewis and Sheila Furneaux: ‘Wind in the Willows’ (Ladies also invited) And followed by a Buffet Lunch 4 May Speaker: Nigel Wright: ‘Trek to Everest Base Camp’ Interested in joining Probus? https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/fra/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, We hope that the spring colours have helped many of you as you go about your daily lives, coming out of lockdown has been a relief as we reflect upon two very strange years. Thank you to everyone who has given kindness and support to others during this time, our community has been truly wonderful and hopefully this spring and summer we can enjoy being together again. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/south-glos/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/south-glos/ Frenchay Village Museum I was really pleased to see that the Planning Committee overturned the planning officer’s recommendation and gave approval for the extension to Frenchay Museum. Local residents understand the importance of Frenchay Museum and the tireless dedication of the volunteers who run it. I am very grateful to all those residents who either spoke in support or sent me messages in advance of the committee meeting. I was able to highlight this level of support in my submissions to the committee and I am sure it played a part in convincing other Councillors to approve the plans. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/library/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/library/ Downend Library has re-opened following the installation of an accessible public toilet which necessitated having to close for a few weeks. Our staffed days are: Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays 10am - 5.30pm Saturdays 9.30am - 1pm Open Access is available 8am - 7.30pm, seven days a week. Pre-School Rhyme Times are now taking place again on Wednesdays at 9.30am and our next Lego Club will take place on Saturday 9th April. If you would like to attend either of these please either ask staff to book a FREE place or email downend. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/women-of-frenchay-exhibition/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/women-of-frenchay-exhibition/ In this new exhibition we examine the role of women in the workplace, how class distinctions defined the opportunities that were available to them and how social change and key moments in history blurred these lines. These themes will be explored through the lives of women who lived in Frenchay in the 19th and 20th centuries and will features a variety of objects from our collection that can help narrate this story. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/tennis/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/tennis/ My daughter was around 3-4 years old when she showed an interest in tennis, so off I went on a little internet search to try to find local tennis sessions for her. I came across Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club who arranged for her to have a trial. The rest, as they say, is history, She is now 10 years old, completely obsessed with tennis and now in the Avon County Tennis Performance Squad. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/10k/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/10k/ Up and Running Again! The 40th Frenchay 10K is set to be held on Sunday the 24th April 2002, starting and finishing at the UWE Glenside Campus, but with the central part of the course making its way through Frenchay, and attracting a large number of both runners and spectators, while raising substantial funds for charity. Back in 1979, local resident John Honeywell attended a talk given by Hugh Coakham, pioneering neurosurgeon working at Frenchay Hospital, about brain tumour surgery in 1979, which inspired John and his friend John Laurie to raise some money to fund his research. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/wi/ Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-04/wi/ Frenchay WI are pleased to be starting the new membership year this month, April, and we would welcome prospective members to join us. Our speaker will be Cath Pendleton, the ‘Merthyr Mermaid and Ice Swimmer. Cath featured last year on a BBC programme, where she was celebrated as being the first person to have swum an ice mile in the Antarctic Circle. Our new Social Secretary, Linda, is planning some activities which members can sign up for at meetings. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/music/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/music/ Ruth Davidge, Choir Director at Frenchay Parish Church tells the story of a favourite and inspiring musical work. If you had been living in Vienna in the summer of 1783 you may have spotted a young well dressed couple boarding a coach for the week-long journey to Salzburg. They were going to visit his family whom his wife was yet to meet. Excitement was no doubt mixed with sadness as they were leaving behind their first child, a boy aged only two months. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/ten-k/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/ten-k/ Sunday 24th April 2022 at 11.00am The Frenchay 10k was first held in 1980 and is one of the country’s oldest 10k events. After being away for 2 years due to the pandemic, it is back for what will be the 40th anniversary run. The race was conceived with the joint purpose of staging a well-organised run for serious runners and beginners alike and raising money for local charities. 100% of the proceeds of the run go to charity. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/cricket/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/cricket/ As the weather in later February was much drier, the ground conditions have allowed more, very necessary work by the volunteer Groundstaff on the Wickets and Outfield, in preparation for the Season, which is now approaching rapidly. The super news is that the Club has expanded our ‘Female’ offer, and have entered a Team in the new Gloucestershire Womens ‘35 Over Premier League’, which will be a good, solid challenge for our many older teenage girls. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/tennis/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/tennis/ Are you struggling with your Mental Health? Try Tennis!! Joining Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club (DFTC) 3 years ago, just as I retired from NHS work has been transformative especially during the Covid pandemisc. I played tennis as a child but hadn’t picked up a racket for almost 35 years, when a course run by a DFTC Coach was put on for parents at my son’s school. It was such fun to play again and when the course finished, I asked what else could I do to carry on playing which led to DFTC! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/library/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/library/ Temporary Closure - 14th February to 13th March Downend Library will be closed between Monday 14th February and Sunday 13th March inclusive. This is to enable an accessible public toilet to be installed and other associated building works. The provision of an accessible toilet will be a great help during our weekly Rhyme Times (see details below), childrens and adult activities. During the closure Staple Hill Library will be staffed an extra day per week on Wednesdays 10am - 5. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/esme/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/esme/ I nearly made my title say “Eating my Daffodils“! The main reason that I enjoy living in Marshfield Park is that my neighbours are always so very kind to me – really good friends. Two days ago I opened my front door to find Allan on my doorstep, holding out a gift for me from his wife Sandra and himself. He was holding a bunch of green stems which looked like asparagus. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/flower-show/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/flower-show/ After a two year break we are delighted to say that the Frenchay Flower Show will be held this year on Saturday 9th July. For many decades the Flower Show has been a highlight in the Village calendar and a wonderful opportunity for residents, and those from further afield, to come together to enjoy a truly wonderful local day out. Many of you will have come to previous Shows, so you will know what a fantastic day it is, but for those of you that might be looking to join us for the first time you can expect entertainment provided by local bands and Morris dancers, horticultural, art and culinary exhibits in the marquee with prizes for the best in class. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/frederick-denison-maurice/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/frederick-denison-maurice/ Never heard of him? Then read on… with this article from Frenchay Village Museum April 1st marks the 150th anniversary of the death of Frederick Denison Maurice, Frenchay’s most influential resident. He was born in 1805 in Lowestoft, then in 1813 his father (a Unitarian minister) was appointed minister of Frenchay Chapel. The family came to live in Clarendon House. Maurice’s close childhood friend was a young Quaker, Francis Tuckett, who lived in Frenchay House. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/just-run/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/just-run/ In our last update we mentioned some of the benefits of running and how it can aid your wellbeing. One of these arms of wellbeing is paying attention to the present moment, you might be wondering how this can be incorporated into running. As a runner or walker, it’s important to pay attention to your surroundings to ensure your safety; to stay on the curb, to cross a road when the road is clear, and to not bump into people and lampposts. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/gardening/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/gardening/ Spring usually arrives by mid-March and the frequent sunny days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks. It’s time to get busy preparing seed beds, sowing seed, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden. Most gardens should be coming back to life after the long winter sleep and on clement days when the temperature rises there may be a hint of summer in the air. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/recipie/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/recipie/ This recipe serves 8 but the types and volume of fruit and can be to altered to ones taste. Healthy but warming on a cold day. Ingredients 1 orange – rind thinly pared in one long spiral if possible ¼ litre of fresh orange juice (I juice fresh oranges for this) ½ tsp ground ginger 8 cardamom pods, crushed 5cm piece of a cinnamon stick 125gm soft light brown sugar (I use less) 1 mango – peeled, stoned and cut into slices 1 papaya – cut in half, seeds and skin removed and cut into thin slices ½ pineapple – skin and core removed and flesh sliced into thin slices 2 large peaches – blanch for 30 seconds, peel, stone and cut into 8 sections 2 plums – stone and cut into quarters 2 kiwi fruits – peel and sliced Method Put orange rind, orange juice, ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and brown sugar into a large bowl. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/museum/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/museum/ ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, 10th MARCH 7.30pm, FRIENDS’ MEETING HOUSE (QUAKERS) Frenchay Museum opened in 2000 and is run entirely by volunteers. We have great plans to extend the museum to house the many objects we have no room to display and to provide storage, an indoor toilet and a meeting space. Our planning application to extend the museum is being decided on 3rd March so we may be able to let you know the decision at the AGM. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/dings/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/dings/ I mentioned last month that in the first half of the season we had travelled 1708 miles for our matches, that is more than Bristol Bears travel! Well in January we have been called upon to travel a total of 940 miles for our three away matches before we were able to welcome Canterbury at Shaftesbury park at the end of January. However despite the First Team only having the one game at home we have had plenty of rugby to watch, including Bristol Bears Ladies in a very entertaining, close fought last minute victory over Worcester. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/probus/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/probus/ With our programme of regular meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at the Village Hall now in full swing, we were highly entertained on 2nd February by a talk by Dickon Povey on the “Discomforts of Bath”, an exploration into the reality of life behind Bath’s usual posh image of style and fashion. Next up: a talk on ‘Gadgets of Yesteryear ‘on Wednesday 02 March, 10.00am at Frenchay Village Hall. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/lifeskills/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/lifeskills/ Visitors since 2001, Frenchay CE Primary School’s current Year 6 pupils are the latest children to have visited Lifeskills, the local safety charity. Lifeskills teaches children how to keep themselves safe in a 90 minute guided tour of various realistically themed ‘film set’ scenarios. It’s a unique and interactive experience, in which children have the opportunity to explore lots of common hazards in a safe environment and are taught how to handle risky day-to-day situations. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/parish/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/parish/ We have continued to have online meetings with North Bristol Hospital Trust on the proposed handover of the Frenchay Parklands area’s and we are hoping that this will be completed in 2022. The added 20 mph signs that we have been requesting from South Glos. Council should be fitted in February from the Village Hall towards the church on the common. Motorists need extra reminders of this with some excessive speeds many of us have seen. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/fra/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, It is great that the traditional flower show will be able to return on Saturday 9th July which, hopefully, marks the end of two years we would like to forget. We have recently had three residents join our Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) committee, two of whom live in the new houses at Frenchay Park. They were keen to help FRA after being involved in local activities. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/school/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/school/ This term in Unicorn class in Frenchay Primary have been looking at our local area. We enjoyed finding on Google Maps and we discussed what we could see on the map. The children wanted to make maps of our journey from home to school, drawing some of the things that we see on the way. We decided to go out exploring in the local area on a forest walk, lucky for us it was a beautiful sunny winter’s morning. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/south-glos/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/south-glos/ Thank you to all residents who continue to reach out to us in relation to a variety of issues. We continue to focus on issues that matter to you and, in particular, what you experience outside your own front door. We regularly walk around Frenchay to identify local issues such as roads that might need resurfacing, pot holes, graffiti, overgrown bushes etc. Where work is identified then these issues are reported to the excellent Streetcare Team. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/wi/ Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-03/wi/ Frenchay WI are delighted to be resuming meetings, yet again. Our March meeting will be for members only - a postponed Christmas meal, which we are holding as a Spring Meal. This means, unfortunately, that we won’t be able to accept new members at this meeting. However, new members are welcome to join us for our April meeting, which is also the beginning of our new membership year. At this meeting we are excited to have Cath Pendleton to speak to us. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/tennis/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/tennis/ DFTC 2021 Xmas Party! What a wonderful way to celebrate our DFTC, with our first post restrictions event. With over 50 tickets sold there was a buzz of excitement as time drew near. The Cricket Club had put up a splendid tree and filled the whole clubhouse with decorations, with finishing touches added by Lesley and Wanda. The festive barman was wearing a dashing Xmas suit of red and white, offering help and advice and good cheer throughout the evening. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/biru/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/biru/ The residual clinical facility on the former Frenchay Hospital site is the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit, known as ‘the BIRU’. It is a specialist neurological rehabilitation centre which opened on its current site in Frenchay in 2001, and in 2016 a new building was added, creating a total of 52 inpatient beds with supporting therapeutic facilities including two gyms, a small hydrotherapy pool, adapted kitchens and social areas. Patients are admitted to BIRU from Southmead Hospital, Bristol Royal Infirmary and other regional acute hospitals, following a brain injury which may be due to trauma, stroke, or other illnesses of the nervous system. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/foxes/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/foxes/ Hello, Frenchay (and especially the ladies!) and a happy new year to you all! Since last September, your local community choir, The Frenchay Foxes, has been meeting in person again to sing, and it’s been so good to get back together! Maybe this year is the time for you to come and give it a try..? We learn everything by ear, so there’s no need to read music – in fact, most of the group had never been in a choir before – and the main point of the sessions is to have fun! https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/just-run/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/just-run/ Running events are a highlight for members who get the running bug or for those who like (or need) a target to aim for as extra motivation to run. For other members they are a great way to fundraise while achieving a personal goal. There are too many to list here but some of our members shared their local favourites. Good luck if you decide to sign up! Top of the list is the Frenchay 10km Road Run – one of the oldest 10km events, first held in 1980. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/probus/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/probus/ Back in Full Swing! In December we enjoyed our Christmas Lunch with 40 attending (members and partners). In early January we held our AGM; five new members inducted, and a strong team elected to our Council, including Ed Allingham as President. We are now looking forward to an interesting programme of meetings – on the first Wednesday of every month at the Frenchay Village Hall. ​ https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/fra/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Those spring bulbs are starting to appear to brighten up our days and even the days are beginning to get a bit longer as daylight lasts beyond 3pm! So many reasons to be cheerful and the thought of spring and summer events is starting to exercise our minds. One of the biggest occasions this year promises to be the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebration weekend from the 2nd to the 5th of June, FRA are working very closely with all Frenchay stakeholder groups to organise a memorable weekend of activities and fun for all ages. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/village-hall/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/village-hall/ The Frenchay Village Hall Management Committee would like to take this opportunity to update you on the funding generated by the SGC Section 106 Agreement relating to the Redrow Housing development, which is to be used to carry out Improvements to the Village Hall. This funding, together with our own available funds, will make the Village Hall ready for the next 25 years, enhance its facilities for the community, improve accessibility and sustainability of operations. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/wi/ Tue, 01 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-02/wi/ It is with regret that Frenchay WI have decided to suspend meetings for January and February in light of the current Covid situation. A poll of our members indicated that the majority felt it was safer to do this. However, we are hoping that things may improve and we will be able to reverse our decision in February. This being the case, any new members can contact our secretary, Chris Davies, on 0117 9568123 or by emailing frenchaywi@gmail. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/tennis/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/tennis/ End of Year Roll of Honour of the Achievements of Junior Players at DFTC The youngsters mentioned below (and just a few of whom are shown in the photo above) started their tennis careers at Downend & Frenchay Tennis Club. They have learned to play in various age groups and been able to compete in competitions suited to their ability. There are many more who enjoy learning the skills which they can continue using for life. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/library/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/library/ Pre-school Rhyme time@ Downend Library A FREE fun session of action rhymes and songs for toddlers and pre-school children aged 18 months - 4 years old LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE 9.30—10.00 a.m. on Wednesdays To book your place and for more details, speak to staff or email downend.library@southglos.gov.uk and we will get back to you. Tracing your family history? We have FREE access to Ancestry on our library computers. No need to book. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/flower-show/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/flower-show/ After two years of not being able to hold the very popular Flower Show, we are hoping to do so next year. We have set a date of 9th July (previously 16th July) to hold the Show, with Covid guidelines being observed. Once again hopefully the marquee will stand out prominently on the Common. The Committee will meet this month to discuss a way forward, and as soon as we are able will give out further information and requests for help. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/just-run/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/just-run/ Are you someone who made a New Year resolution to do more exercise, eat healthier, practice mindfulness etc? When the new year arrives, you sign up for a new gym membership and promise that it will be different this time. If so, then well done but if you’re like 80% of the population your resolve doesn’t last as you would have liked. New Year’s resolutions tend not to succeed because the many demands of our life such as work, family, friends all compete for our attention, effort, and willpower, all of which are in limited supply. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/probus/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/probus/ With all our meetings scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month at the Village Hall, our socially distanced meeting on 1st December seemed a little early for Christmas until the mince pies came out, and The Northavon Singers entertained us with recitals of Christmas music, old and new. It was significant for our President to remind us that this was the first time for almost 2 years that, thanks to the Pandemic, we had been all been able to meet together. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/fra/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/fra/ Dear Friends and Neighbours, Happy New Year to you all, we hope that everyone had an enjoyable Christmas with their families and friends. 2022 will see FRA continue to tirelessly push and campaign for many things in Frenchay that have been promised or that are needed as essential parts of our Infrastructure to support a population that will have doubled over the last three years; Removal and replacements of the Frenchay Common ‘build outs’, Nursery School provision for the new school, healthcare facilities, shop and café, our Museum expansion and restoring the Hambrook Junction to its previous function are among the many matters top of our list. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/whistle-blower/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/whistle-blower/ Tony Monks is a serial whistle-blower… If someone is not keeping to the laws, don’t expect him to look away: he will be on to it, and wanting to bring it to everyone’s attention. And even if he is just on the sidelines, if someone steps out of line, he will be the one to flag it up for all to see, even if it is not always the most popular thing to do. https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/wi/ Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/22-01/wi/ ​At our annual meeting last month the new committee were elected and all are looking forward to a full and enjoyable year ahead. We had a visit from WI Country Markets where members were able to purchase home-made food and craft items. Our December meeting was for members only but we look forward to welcoming new members to our WI in the new year. Our speaker for our January meeting will be Emma Britton (ex Radio Bristol), whose talk is entitled “From radio shows to funerals and weddings”. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/tennis/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/tennis/ My name is Kirstie and I joined Downend & Frenchay Tennis Club in April of this year (2021). I have been a tennis coach for 8 years, before this I was a Hospital Play Specialist at the Bristol Children’s Hospital, which is a job I loved and was incredibly rewarding. Both of my children got into playing tennis at the ages of 4 and 6 and it soon became a massive part of our family life, it was then that I decided to train to become a tennis coach and found a career that is equally rewarding. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/library/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/library/ The 2021 Winter Mini Challenge, run by The Reading Agency in partnership with WWF, is still on! It runs (from 1st December) until 16 January 2022. There are also games, rewards and book recommendations to explore at at www.wintermini.org.uk – of course children can borrow books to read for the challenge for FREE at Downend Library. The Summer Reading Challenge 2021 saw 3436 children in South Gloucestershire reading and exploring nature and action for the environment as part of this year’s Wild World Heroes theme. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/just-run/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/just-run/ Without our volunteer run leaders, we couldn’t facilitate up to 75 local ladies to run safely each week in small groups tailored to their running needs and abilities. Our run leaders are first aid trained and to provide a safe and enjoyable running experience, they complete the UK Athletics Leadership in Running Fitness course. This covers risk assessment, warm-ups, cool downs, and how to lead fun running sessions for a mixed ability group of runners. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/preservation/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/preservation/ A NEW FRIENDS’ GROUP FOR FRENCHAY PARKLANDS? Some two years ago, at the November 2019 AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS), it was proposed that FPS should sponsor the formation of a Friends’ Group to support the long-term management of the 20+ acres of hospital land being handed over as a Voluntary Village Green (VVG). There was unanimous agreement at the AGM to this course of action after presentations from a South Glos Officer and representatives of Page Park in Staple Hill, where just such a Friends’ Group was able to bid for additional funding not available to local councils. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/probus/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/probus/ Our local Probus Club has resumed operations, starting with a “Reunion Lunch” in October to which prospective new members were invited. Then at our Club Meeting in early November we enjoyed a talk on Bristol Bears Rugby, and our meeting in December will feature a choir and a Christmas theme. Probus is still inviting new members from our community of retired professional and business men. ​ Meetings at the Frenchay Village Hall, 1st Wednesday of each month, 10am until 12 noon. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/wi/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-12/wi/ Frenchay WI are thrilled to be able to continue with our meetings and to see so many of our members attending. Our speaker in October was Steve Loader from the Seamen’s Mission who told us of the tough times the foreign sailors who come into Portbury and Avonmouth docks have endured – some of them not being able to leave their ships for 9 months nor seeing their families for even longer. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/bpw-president/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/bpw-president/ Business and Professional Women (‘BPW’) is an international organisation set up to promote women’s equality and achievement in business, professional and public life. It was started in 1938, and has national groups in over 100 countries, lobbying at its highest level in the UN, the European Parliament, in national governments, and elsewhere. Its agenda certainly has a forceful momentum at present worldwide, and it aspires to accelerate its influence towards these objectives. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/tennis/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/tennis/ A member of Downed and Frenchay Tennis Club tells the story of her personal journey onto the courts. October, November, and December are thrilling times for adult tennis. The big dramatic skies over the tennis courts, the sun sets. The cold refreshing breeze on our hot faces. The occasional gust of wind that makes the balls fly as fast as Emma Raducanu’s best! A delicious time to be outside playing tennis with good people. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/library/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/library/ Computer Support Need some help using your laptop, tablet or smartphone? Our friendly Digital Champion is back to help out. You can book a FREE session with him at Downend Library by calling 01454 865022 or emailing downend.library@southglos.gov.uk or asking staff for details. Downend Library also hosts longer Computer courses which are run by SGS College. Topics covered include: Understanding emails & attachments Searching the internet, How to do on line shopping safely and how to compare deals on line. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/just-run/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/just-run/ Why do we run? For some it’s for health benefits, for others it’s more about setting an intention or goal and then achieving it. Achievements can be very personal or shared. At Just Run Frenchay we love to hear about and celebrate our members’ running achievements, no matter how small or grand. These can be making it back to club after a long absence, completing one of our courses or going on to participate in the local park run, an organized 10km run or even running a marathon. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/preservation/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-11/preservation/ Annual Report Following on from the notice in last month’s edition that the AGM has been postponed because of on-going concerns about ‘Covid’ and potentially crowded indoor meetings, here is my report. Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) has considered the usual range of planning applications - from tree works through extensions & alterations, increasing in scale right up to the final phase of the hospital redevelopment, known as “Phase 3B”, which has a ‘P17…’ (ie; 2017) reference number. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/just-run/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/just-run/ Whatever the time of year, much of the satisfaction of running comes afterwards: those runs that were absolutely the last thing you felt like doing, but you did them anyway. This probably applies three- or fourfold for evening runs in the dark because you are trying to ignore the temptation of the sofa, a hot chocolate or glass of wine. It’s particularly helpful to be part of a group to give you the extra motivation and sense of commitment as well as safety in numbers. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/preservation/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/preservation/ Postponement of AGM By now, in a ‘normal’ year, the committee would have met in September and begun the usual preparations for an AGM in November. However, in my view, due on-going concerns about Covid and with various recommended precautions still in place, things are still far from being back to normal. So, reluctantly, having taken soundings with Frenchay Tuckett Society (AGM postponed to next March) and Frenchay Residents Association (see the report above, I am following suit and announcing the postponement of our AGM as well. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/bells/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/bells/ Standing on Frenchay Common, Frenchay church appears to be at the centre of an ideal English village scene, with only a game of cricket on the Common, and the merry sound of the church bells ringing, needed to complete the Arcadian image. But although cricket had been played on the Common since the 1840s, there was only ever one bell in the church… However, in the late 1980s and early 1990’s, parishioners and friends completed that ideal image by undertaking a massive DIY project to install a ring of six bells. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/volunteering/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/volunteering/ I wanted to write this month on a personal level rather than give a Parish Council report. During the pandemic we have seen in the media people who have selflessly given up time to help others in small and big ways. What a remarkable man Sir Captain Tom Moore was and the funds he raised in the run up to his 100th birthday. Children sleeping in tents to fund raise and volunteers helping people with anxiety and depression for example. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/village-hall/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/village-hall/ This year’s Frenchay Village Hall AGM will take place at the Hall on Monday 25th October at 7.00pm and is open to all local residents who wish to attend. This is an opportunity to hear about how the Hall has functioned under the COVID guidelines, how future planning is progressing and there will be time to ask questions about the Hall and also to volunteer to join the committee as a local resident. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/wards-welcomed/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/wards-welcomed/ Ever since the closure of Frenchay Hospital took effect, many have campaigned for wards to be re-introduced at Frenchay. Dave and Abbie Ward were not what they had in mind, but this unique couple were warmly welcomed by some 700 or so people when they first took to the field at Shaftsbury Park, Frenchay, directly across the road from the old Hospital site, on Saturday the 4th September for the start of Bristol Bears Women’s campaign in the new season of the Alluianz Premier 15s competition, the national elite level of women’s rugby. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/wi/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-10/wi/ Frenchay WI are looking forward to our meeting this month - our first since we re-opened and then to our second meeting on 18 October. The speaker will be Steve Loader from the Seaman’s Mission. Steve will tell us about the work they do to help the sailors who come into Avonmouth, many not having seen their families for a long time and who are ill-equipped to deal with our winter weather. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/library/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/library/ Our weekly Rhyme Times take place every Wednesday at 9.30am. These are free sessions. They are aimed at parents with toddlers/babies up to 2 years old although older pre-school children are also welcome. At the time of going to press we are still booking limited numbers: please email downend.library@southglos.gov.uk ​Mental Health Books All South Gloucestershire libraries have copies of the books recommended by medical professionals on a range of mental health subjects including depression, anxiety, phobias, dementia and also other long term conditions. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/foxes/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/foxes/ Frenchay Foxes ladies choir met up again for a picnic on the Common, prior to the resumption of their weekly practices in Frenchay Village Hall as will start in September after a long 18 month break. The Choir Director, Fran Bolton, seen here on the left with a choir member, one of 25 or so attending the picnic, is really looking forward to leading the singing once again and gave this message explaining what Frenchay Foxes is all about: https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/high-street-art/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/high-street-art/ A young artist from Frenchay was one of the designers selected by South Gloucestershire Council to promote local High Street businesses through the ‘Bee Trail Challenge’. Sixteen fibreglass bees have been placed around eight ‘High Street’ shopping areas in South Gloucestershire, including at Downend and Staple Hill, each bee individually designed with an artistic theme. Emma Beavis created her ‘Astronobee’, inspired by space and the world of the unknown, and the artist and her creation are shown in the photograph alongside, although it would need a colour version to do justice to this imaginative design. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/just-run/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/just-run/ You don’t have to go too far to read or hear about the physical and mental health benefits associated with running no matter how early or late in life you run. Many of many of Just Run Frenchay members have reached mid-life and started or re-started running. We take great pleasure in seeing them flourish and gain confidence when they realise they are capable of so much more than they imagined. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/probus/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/probus/ After a period of some 18 months or so when the members of the Club have been unable to meet together, there is to be a re-launch and open invitation for people to attend an Open Meeting on Wednesday October 6th, 10.15 a.m. at Frenchay Village Hall Probus Clubs are an opportunity for men who have retired from business or professional life, but wish to meet socially with others in a similar position. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/football/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/football/ As the 2021/22 season swiftly approaches, I think all clubs are hoping that after two seasons of disruption, things can start to return to some semblance of normality again. Pre-season has been mixed, with a number of players and coaching staff taking the opportunity of the relaxation of lockdown restrictions to see loved ones or take a much-needed holiday. Whilst this has made fielding a consistent and settled side a challenge, it has nonetheless given opportunities to a number of our under 18s players, as well as other triallists. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/wi/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-09/wi/ ​Frenchay WI are pleased to announce that we are re-starting our meetings on Monday 20 September in the Village Hall at 7.30 pm. Anyone interested in joining Frenchay WI is invited to come along to any of our meetings – on the third Monday of the month. At the moment, there is no waiting list so new members would be very welcome. Please don’t be afraid to come alone – there is always a friendly reception awaiting new members. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-08/library/ Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-08/library/ Pack your bags and head to the library to join Wild World Heroes, Summer Reading Challenge 2021! To get involved, children read 6 books over the summer holiday and collect stickers to complete their special Wild World Heroes poster to get a medal and certificate. It’s FUN and FREE to take part. Join the Wild World Heroes for the Summer Reading Challenge at Downend library any time from Saturday 10 July to Saturday 11 September, and discover how you can make a difference to the environment too. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-08/just-run/ Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-08/just-run/ Congratulations to our latest graduates of the couch to 5km course. We are delighted that so many of them have joined the club and are running regularly. Well done and welcome to those who have enrolled on our 19th July couch to 5 km and 5-10 km courses. It’s not too late to join these groups. Alternatively, there will be more courses running (excuse the pun!) in September so contact Jessie at info@justrun. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-07/just-run/ Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-07/just-run/ July is a great time for taking advantage of running in the cooler shady spots along the River Frome and through the woodland of Oldbury Court and Stoke Park. Our Monday night 7pm 2-, 3-, 4- and 6-mile groups try and maximise the use of off-road routes in the dry summer months. Our Friday 5.45pm session aimed at stamina, speed and fitness continues to be popular as does our regular couch to 5km course. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-07/parish/ Thu, 01 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-07/parish/ Allotments Parish Councils have an obligation to provide adequate allotments. We set up the Jubilee allotments In Winterbourne some years back which have been full most of the time. There is a smaller area within Frenchay on the former hospital site but there is a need to look for more land. As Adrian Collins reported in the previous edition we have been looking at an area by the side of the village hall which is partly overgrown and has the potential of a new allotment area. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/tennis/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/tennis/ Unfortunately we have to report that there has been some vandalism at the Frenchay Tennis Courts near to the play area and Museum in Frenchay. This happened on Sunday 2nd May in the evening after the courts had been used during the day. We were aware that children had previously been trying to unlock the padlock to gain access to the courts to play football but on this occasion the gate was still locked so the vandals had obviously climbed over the fencing where they broke one noticeboard and completely destroyed one of the wooden benches. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/just-run/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/just-run/ On Saturday the 5th of June, Just Run Frenchay members, along with our latest ‘Couch to 5km’ graduates should hopefully have celebrated participating in the first of the restarted local Park Runs. Park Runs are free, inclusive and a great way to build fitness through the summer months – www.parkrun.org.uk. We have now started our Friday 5.45pm sessions where we use the amazing green spaces around Frenchay to do running exercises designed to build up stamina, speed and increase fitness. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/preservation/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/preservation/ Mid-year Report (in lieu of a summer meeting) By the time this June edition of FCN is being delivered at the end of May, it is widely expected that we will be only 3 weeks from the last milestone on the ‘Roadmap’ to final release from Lockdown. However, at the time of writing this report (10th May) although some inside venues are expecting to reopen, it is too soon to assume that a return to any kind of ‘normal’ can be taken for granted. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/village-hall/ Tue, 01 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-06/village-hall/ We are delighted to announce that the Village Hall now has a bike shelter, positioned towards the back of the carpark. It will hold up to 8 bikes and is in a location which is covered by lights and the CCTV system at the Hall. A huge thanks to the members of New Life Church for installing this and for the many other jobs they carried out as part of the ‘Bristol Noise’ weekend. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-05/village-hall/ Sat, 01 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-05/village-hall/ As the COVID restrictions and Lockdown rules gradually relax during May and June we are hoping that some of our regular groups will be able to return to their activities at the Village Hall. If you are involved in any events at the Hall, please make use of the hand sanitisers and be aware that we are doing extra cleaning between events to keep everyone safe. You may also notice that at the front of the Hall some of the Committee, with the help of Neil Falango and his team from the Frenchay Pond Improvement Team, have planted a new hedge which consists of wild roses, hawthorn and blackthorn. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-02/parish/ Mon, 01 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-02/parish/ 2020 has been a challenging time for all of us, and your parish councillors have continued to work to the best of their capabilities, with Zoom meetings and socially-distanced site meetings where necessary. The four Frenchay councillors have been monitoring local issues. The Frenchay Parkland site, in part of the former hospital site, has taken up a lot of our time trying to ensure works are done to the correct standard, prior to the eventual handover to Winterbourne Parish Council to manage for future generations. https://frenchay.news/posts/21-01/village-hall/ Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/21-01/village-hall/ After such an extraordinary time last year, we hope 2021 will bring us all back to good health and enable a gradual return to community activities with the ability for groups and celebrations to resume which will be so important for our well-being. During last year most regular groups were suspended at Frenchay Village Hall and the committee worked hard to adhere to government lockdowns and guidance on appropriate use of the Hall. https://frenchay.news/posts/20-11/preservation/ Sun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/20-11/preservation/ Annual Report for 2020; in lieu of an AGM due to Covid If like me, you had an ‘I-spy’ book when you were a kid, then this edition of FCN, with contributions from most of the ‘Frenchay Members’ on Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) is worth noting. So, I would like to start by recording our thanks to Charlie Watkins who has already written rather more than his 1,000 words by holding the various authorities to account on such issues as outstanding land registrations on the voluntary village green, querying various apparent short-falls of legally identified expenditure from S106 monies in Frenchay and doing valuable research on alleged breaches of planning conditions. https://frenchay.news/posts/20-11/parish/ Sun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/20-11/parish/ The Parish Council has continued to operate well under the restrictions. We have held the monthly meetings by Zoom which has worked well, many parishioner’s have joined the online meetings for planning matters, grants, traffic and environmental issues for example. If you would like to join a meeting please email clerk@winterbournepc.co.uk and Sally or Sarah will provide you with login details. Yellow Hatched Junctions I am very pleased to see these two under the M32 roundabout of the A4174. https://frenchay.news/posts/20-10/village-hall/ Thu, 01 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/20-10/village-hall/ Frenchay Village Hall Management Committee is pleased to advise all users of the hall that in light of the COVID pandemic it has purchased an anti-viral fogging machine which will be used between lets. Used in conjunction with the anti-viral disinfectant, this machine ensures that all surfaces, including soft furnishings, are sanitized. The machine is additional to all measures already undertaken such as hand sanitizers strategically placed in the hall, additional cleaning as required and adhering to the social distancing criteria as advised by the Government. https://frenchay.news/posts/20-07/preservation/ Wed, 01 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/20-07/preservation/ The return of Frenchay Community News, once again being delivered to every household in Frenchay after two months in isolation due to Covid-19, is one welcome sign that ‘lockdown’ is gradually being eased. However, we are a long way from getting back to normal ( old or new) with many of Frenchay’s planned summer events from VE-day commemorations at the museum to the Frenchay Flower Show in July having to be cancelled due to the on-going requirements for social and physical distancing. https://frenchay.news/posts/20-03/parish/ Sun, 01 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/20-03/parish/ I had a couple of residents ask about how Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) and Frenchay have been affected by the electoral boundary changes. As many of you are aware, Frenchay is now part of the Downend Ward. However the parish boundary remains the same as it historically was. Trevor Jones is now a Winterbourne Parish Councillor as well as being a South Glos. Councillor for the ward where he had represented Frenchay and Stoke Park, under the old boundary system. https://frenchay.news/posts/19-11/preservation/ Fri, 01 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/19-11/preservation/ Report on 50th Anniversary Celebrations Around 100 people gathered in the village hall on the evening of Saturday 28th September for a very enjoyable ‘Wine & Cheese Quiz’ which followed the style of the 40th bash in 2009. There was a very jolly and sociable atmosphere throughout the evening (judging by the general noise level) as palates and memories were tested. By the end of the evening nearly £500 had been raised from the proceeds of ticket sales and raffles etc. https://frenchay.news/posts/19-10/village-hall/ Tue, 01 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/19-10/village-hall/ Our AGM this year will be held on Monday 4th November at 7.30pm at the Village Hall. Our committee members represent some of the regular groups who use the hall as well as local residents. As our community grows with the new Frenchay Park development, we are particularly keen to meet any new residents who may wish to become involved in helping us continuing to develop the hall as a vibrant community facility. https://frenchay.news/posts/19-09/football/ Sun, 01 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/19-09/football/ The summer has been a busy time for the Frenchay based club. Over previous years, DRG have struggled and have not been the success of many years ago when the club was a real force in the county league and cup competitions. Big changes have been made this summer by Chairman, John McArther and son Robert who have been at the club through thick and thin. This season they have chosen to bring in two new first team managers with a view to changing the club’s fortunes, Mark Cozens from Wick Reserves was a player for DRG many years ago and has a strong bond with the club and vast experience at helping clubs improve on and off the pitch as demonstrated by his time as county league Hanham Athletic’s chairman over many years. https://frenchay.news/posts/19-06/preservation/ Sat, 01 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/19-06/preservation/ Frenchay Preservation Society invite you to the Half Yearly meeting on Thursday 20th June 2019 at 7.30 pm in The Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road. Agenda includes: Lime Trees Westbourne Terrace - replacement trees were planted a few years back to mature up and were intended to replace the existing trees by the road side. We would like to consult residents on their views on the proposal subject to planning approval. https://frenchay.news/posts/19-06/village-hall/ Sat, 01 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/19-06/village-hall/ The Village Hall Committee would like to say a huge ‘Thank you’ to members of New Life Church Bristol (NLC) who spent the Sunday of the May Day Bank Holiday weekend doing some much needed jobs both inside and outside the Village Hall. NLC’s main project was to create raised flower borders around the car park as a safety barrier. This is especially important as the Hall is used regularly for pre-school and nursery groups. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-11/preservation/ Thu, 01 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-11/preservation/ Frenchay Preservation Society invite you to The AGM meeting on Thursday 15th November 2018 at 7.30 pm in The Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road. To cover: Village Museum - Hugh Whatley will present the plans for the future development of Frenchay Museum and the entrance to Lime Tree Avenue. Developments to Former Hospital Site - The works that are underway and to be done on sports facilities, Village Green, nature reserve and allotments. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-10/village-hall/ Mon, 01 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-10/village-hall/ Frenchay Village Hall continues to be a busy community destination with 24 organisations using it regularly as well as many booking for weddings, parties and social events. A list of our current regular groups and contact details and times for these groups can be found on our website www.frenchayvillagehall.co.uk Members of the New Life Church have recently carried out some much needed general maintenance and gardening and their community vegetable plot has produced a bumper crop this year despite the drought - feel free to pick some tomatoes, courgettes, onions or beans if you are in the area. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-06/parish/ Fri, 01 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-06/parish/ When the phone box at the top of Frenchay Hill became redundant, Winterbourne Parish Council bought it. A grant from Redrow has enabled the council to renovate it for community use. It will become a Book Exchange where people can bring books they have finished with and take books that have been donated. Next time you pass the box why not look in and see what is on offer? If you have books you want to donate you can ring 0117 956 9963 to have them collected or just leave them in the phone box. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-05/village-hall/ Tue, 01 May 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-05/village-hall/ The Village Hall Committee is looking into a number of improvements for the exterior of the Hall but in the meantime New Life Church will be doing their annual spring tidy around the Village Hall on Sunday 6th May. If you would like to get involved in some litter picking, gardening and general tidying starting with breakfast rolls and cereals, then please come along and join in from 10am or contact Dave for more information on 07768 287526. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-04/village-hall/ Sun, 01 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-04/village-hall/ As well as being available for private hire, Frenchay Village Hall has a huge number of weekly and monthly regular activities. Here is a list of our current regular groups and contact details and times for these groups can be found on our website: www.frenchayvillagehall.co.uk British Steelies Society Brownies Caravan & Camping Club Cavy Club Downend Folk Club Frenchay Foxes Choir Folk Dancers Fostering Matters Guides Health & Safety Training Holiday Club Music With Mummy New Life Church Pilates Pre-School Probus Rainbows Theatre Group Toddlers Women’s Institute Yoga This list shows how the hall is well used and the wide variety of services that it provides for our local community. https://frenchay.news/posts/18-02/preservation/ Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/18-02/preservation/ I was asked over the Christmas period about the sort of things the Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS) does. Whilst I presumed that most people in the village were aware of the role of FPS, I realised that perhaps not everyone knows, so I hope the following helps a little! FPS started in 1969 by a group of Frenchay residents who primarily wanted to stop inappropriate development in the area. The current make up of the organisation is your 4 elected Frenchay Parish Councillors who are part of Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC). https://frenchay.news/posts/17-12/village-hall/ Fri, 01 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/17-12/village-hall/ Over the next few years we will see exciting changes happening in Frenchay village as the local population increases as a result of the Frenchay Park development. The Village Hall is one of the key community facilities in the immediate area available for events, socials and activities and with the help of community funding and grants, the Village Hall Committee are planning a number of internal and external improvements to the Hall (which is now over 100 years old) to respond to the anticipated increased demand. https://frenchay.news/posts/17-06/preservation/ Thu, 01 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/17-06/preservation/ Frenchay Preservation Society invite you to the Half Year Meeting on Thursday 15th June 2017 at 7.45 pm in The Unitarian Chapel. Beckspool Road. Meet the New Metro Mayor Your new Metro Mayor for the West of England is Tim Bowles and we are delighted he is attending to explain his new role. Works to the A4174 Viaduct The partial closure of the Bromley Heath Viaduct is due to happen in July 2017 which will impact on the roads around Frenchay. https://frenchay.news/posts/16-08/parish/ Mon, 01 Aug 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/16-08/parish/ Three trees have recently been cut down on Frenchay Common opposite to CLIC Cottage. Winterbourne Parish Council manages the Common but did not order the trees to be cut down. Who did it? If you have any information the Parish Council would like to know why the trees were cut down. Winterbourne Parish Council https://frenchay.news/posts/16-05/parish/ Sun, 01 May 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/16-05/parish/ A short introduction to the intricacies of planning regulations and policies … When someone applies to South Gloucestershire Council for planning permission to alter or extend their property or to build a new house, Winterbourne Parish Council receive notification so that they can make a comment. We have the local knowledge to comment on the application. We know whether the lie of the land means that the proposed extension overlooks another house, whether the proposed access is safe, or whether other neighbours have already extended their house in the same way. https://frenchay.news/posts/16-04/parish/ Fri, 01 Apr 2016 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/16-04/parish/ Several people have commented favourably about the clearing up and pruning of trees that has taken place on the Hospital site prior to Winterbourne Parish Council taking it over. They have also commented on the strip of land at the hospital boundary from the museum round to CLIC cottage. It is overgrown and the wall is collapsing in several places. In fact this strip was given/sold to Gloucestershire County Council in the 1940s in order to widen the road or to make a pavement on this side. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-11/preservation/ Sun, 01 Nov 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-11/preservation/ FRENCHAY PRESERVATION SOCIETY AGM MEETING 26th November 2015 at the Unitarian Chapel, 7.45 pm. The Environment Agency will be making a presentation on the recent works on the Frome in Frenchay as below: Background to the work of our team – Hydrometry & Telemetry The purpose and importance of Frenchay flume How it works. What works we carried out & why. The challenges for the project. All other important local issues will be discussed and debated as always and your opinions are welcome as always. https://frenchay.news/posts/place-names/ Sat, 02 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/place-names/ This article reworks material from a Blog of the same name written by Carole Thorne in 2013-14 The Newlands The Newlands was named after Newlands, a large house which was demolished to build the present road. In 1768 the house was described as Frenchay Inn or Frenchay Coffee House. It was then converted to a house and was occupied by several of Frenchay’s prominent families. When the house and nine acres of land was sold in 1936 it fetched £3,300 at auction. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-05/parish/ Fri, 01 May 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-05/parish/ Following the closure of Frenchay Hospital, Winterbourne Parish Council will be taking over and running the hospital’s open spaces. Before this happens major management work is being carried out. The trees are being pruned, brambles cleared and the nature reserve restored. As part of this work the fence along Beckspool Road has been removed. This gives a full view of Frenchay Park House (the former trust headquarters) for the first time in many years. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/burma-star/ Wed, 01 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/burma-star/ A Burma Star John King, a resident of Frenchay was called up in 1940 when he was 20 years old. He joined the artillery unit protecting the country in Devon. In 1944 he was transferred to the iInfantry to fight abroad. He was sent to Bombay and from Bombay to Doolally where they had to dye all their clothes green for jungle warfare. They were shipped down the Brahmaputra River by paddle steamer to Comilla and then flown to Burma where he joined the 2nd Battalion South Lancashires. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/preservation/ Wed, 01 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/preservation/ Frenchay Preservation Society are delighted to inform residents after a lengthy campaign that South Gloucestershire Council have approved the Village Hall Junction improvement scheme. It is difficult to cross safely at this point so the scheme will have benefits for all residents. We hope in the future to add further improvements to safely cross at this area. Our thanks to Cllr David Fletcher who made an excellent presentation to the committee to assist our application and to Cllr. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/parish/ Wed, 01 Apr 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-04/parish/ A public meeting was held at the Village Hall on Thursday 19th March to discuss and debate the proposed Village Design Statement (VDS). Part of Frenchay is covered by the Conservation status, but areas outside such as Grange Park, Newlands, Riverwood and all properties outside the boundary are not. We are proposing to extend the area to be bordered on the South West by the Bristol City Council, to the West by the M32, to the North by the A4174 Ring Road until it crosses the River Frome, then following the river south, ending on the Bristol boundary. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-03/traffic/ Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-03/traffic/ One of the positives of the closure of Frenchay Hospital was to be the reduction in parking all over Frenchay. Having recently returned from 6 months in Lisbon I expected to see a big change in the traffic. Although the surrounding roads are now clear of most hospital based cars, Beckspool Road is just as congested with parked cars through the week. This makes parking for funerals and other church functions very difficult. https://frenchay.news/posts/15-03/design-statement/ Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/15-03/design-statement/ No doubt some of you will remember this was raised at the Annual General Meeting of the Frenchay Preservation Society meeting in November 2014. By those present it was unanimously cheered and applauded as a way forward to expand on the Conservation document which was approved by South Gloucestershire Council in 2007. It was explained that our remit for such a statement should be of a wider geographical area. After some discussion your Parish Councillors feel obliged to extend any study to be bordered on the South West by the Bristol City Council, to the West by the M32 , to the North by the A4174 Ring Road until it crosses the River Frome and follow the river boundary then Southwards, ending on the Bristol boundary. https://frenchay.news/posts/14-06/solar/ Sun, 01 Jun 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/14-06/solar/ When the County of Avon was divided into Bristol and South Gloucestershire, the former teachers’ centre in Winterbourne was sold off. The Parish Council bought it and turned it into The Greenfield Centre, the headquarters of the Parish Council. As the building is a 1950s structure with a flat roof it is ideal for solar panels. Several years ago a large part of the roof was covered with the panels. This proved so successful in generating electricity that another large part has just been covered. https://frenchay.news/posts/14-04/parish/ Tue, 01 Apr 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/14-04/parish/ Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) owns and/or manages a number of open spaces from Winterbourne to Frenchay. Here are some of them. Newleaze Some years ago WPC bought a field opposite the Winterbourne International Academy’s playing fields. This was planted with 880 small trees and a pond was created to become part of the Forest of Avon . The trees have grown well and have been thinned out to allow the remaining trees to grow unimpeded. https://frenchay.news/posts/14-03/parish/ Sat, 01 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/14-03/parish/ The Planning subcommittee of Winterbourne Parish Council has 8 members (half of the council). These consist of 4 from Winterbourne, 2 from Winterbourne Down/Hambrook and 2 representing Frenchay. It comments on the planning applications within the Parish and adjacent to it e.g. Stoke Gifford or Frampton Cotterell. It has no powers to change South Gloucestershire’s planning decisions. The comments are read by South Gloucestershire planners. In addition, it can ask for an application to be decided by the whole planning committee rather than the planning officers and can ask for a site visit. https://frenchay.news/posts/14-02/parish/ Sat, 01 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000 https://frenchay.news/posts/14-02/parish/ “This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” Sir Winston Churchill We now know that the North Bristol Trust has outline planning permission to build up to 490 houses on the Frenchay Hospital site. It may appear that your Parish Councillors’ work on the development is finished but it is just beginning. There are a number of matters to work on.