Power of the press?
MY thanks to the Downend Voice for achieving in ‘hours’ what an individual taxpayer and an entire parish council couldn’t achieve in months.
My letter about blackberries growing through the pavements in Frenchay was published in August’s Voice, and I was advised that the South Gloucestershire Council had been asked to respond.
The response was evident so quickly – brambles and weeds had been removed from the pavements, which were now passable by all.
This must raise the question, if a job requires doing, does it matter who reports it?
Clearly in the case of this council it does: the payer of bills seems to count for nothing!
Obviously, I’ve looked at the pavements and other questions come to mind.
Does one remove the problem or the cause of the problem? The brambles have been largely removed but the ‘growth medium’ – dust, dried leaves etc – remain, ready for the next lot of weed seeds to settle and create a problem in the near future.
The other question is, who checks that the job has been completed satisfactorily?
I suspect it will be the same person who is happy to leave temporary signs and cones behind when the work has been done!
Geoff Collard
Frenchay
How can the metro mayor also be an MP?
YOU report that Dan Norris says he can do two jobs: MP for North East Somerset & Hanham and West of England Mayor (Voice, August).
I have done two jobs with the condition that I would be paid pro-rata for the two activities, as doing two full-time jobs would not be possible (and illegal).
Presumably, Mr Norris will be restricting his division of responsibilities in the same way, although one wonders if his two groups of constituents were aware that their representative would be part-time.
However, if he does decide to work 80-odd hours a week, he will be in receipt of more than £178,000 in salary plus reimbursement of all the necessary travel expenses incurred (also funded by the taxpayers) and the all-important “support” roles so vital to our elected representatives.
You also report him stating that “to call a by-election when you’ve got an electorate of about a million people is a hugely expensive thing.”
This wouldn’t be so much of an issue if the ousting of his ex-chief executive hadn’t cost £344,000 (£219,000 pay off plus £125,000 for a stand-in).
I look forward to what happens with this early test of whether the Prime Minister really wants to ban second jobs for MPs.
Christopher Richardson
Come fly with us
AS autumn draws closer and the nights get a little darker, keeping safe and fit through group running is a great idea.
Now in its eighth year, Stanbridge Fliers running group is welcoming new runners to join its Wednesday evening 5k runs.
Four experienced and qualified run leaders organise a varied training programme across the school year, whether you’re a seasoned runner or enjoy the occasional parkrun.
This autumn the Group will host another of its popular Couch to 5k courses.
Our original founders wanted Fliers to focus on fitness, fun and friendship. Eight years on we remain true to that mission of encouraging people to take up running fitness, achieve their goals and form great friendships in the process.
We keep it simple, with no costs to join or run with us: we want Stanbridge Fliers to remain an inclusive running group.
Stanbridge Fliers runs from King George V park at 6.15pm each Wednesday.
For more information visit tinyurl.com/bdha8d72 or check out our Facebook group.
Ian Browne
Run leader
Volunteers needed
ARE you a parent or grandparent?
Charity Home-Start Bristol & South Gloucestershire is looking for new volunteers who have parenting skills.
We support families with under-5s across Bristol and South Glos who are going through tough times.
Volunteers are needed for home-visiting or to help at parent groups, for 2-3 hours a week. The next volunteer training course starts on September 26 in Southmead. Visit www.homestartbsg.org.uk, email admin@homestartbsg.org.uk or call 0117 950 1170 to find out more.
Catherine Potter
Trustee
Summer party success
EDGECUMBE Lodge Residential Care Home in Downend was a hub of joy and celebration as it hosted its highly anticipated annual summer party on August 10.
Residents, their families, staff, and neighbours came together for a day brimming with laughter, games, and a strong sense of community.
A standout moment of the afternoon was the wet sponge contest, where courageous staff members volunteered to be doused with cold water—all in good spirits and for a charitable cause. The contest successfully raised funds that will contribute to enhancing the amenities and activities available at the home.
The summer party at Edgecumbe Lodge has become a beloved tradition, uniting the local community and providing a festive occasion for residents, staff, and families to come together and celebrate.
This year’s gathering was no exception, leaving all attendees with cherished memories and a lasting sense of unity that will endure long after the summer season fades.
Prasilla Ambati
Health and Wellbeing Coach
Edgecumbe Lodge