Solar panels could end our toppers
I AM one of thousands of people who work so hard to make postbox toppers to celebrate special occasions and bring a touch of colour to our communities.
Sadly these might be a thing of the past, as postboxes are being changed to solar-powered digital boxes (with a powered drawer for depositing parcels).
Can anyone suggest another way that we can display them?
Although some people might not like them, we have always had good comments from passers by.
Often people come to Downend to see the toppers that they have seen in the Voice.
We make these at our own expense and raise a lot of money for local charities.
Hopefully we will be able to display our Christmas topper before the post box is replaced.
Ann Wilde
Downend Yarn Busters
Origin of fireworks display
I READ with interest the article on the fireworks display (Voice, November) and thought it might be of interest to know the background to this annual event, which attracts so many to King George V Park.
It was in December 1970 that my family moved to Bristol, my having been appointed youth Leader at Badminton Road Methodist Church, the largest youth centre in Gloucestershire.
The opportunity came within a couple of weeks to purchase an old farmhouse at Llangattock, above Crickhowell in the Brecon Beacons.
We had to raise some £7,000 very quickly to create a residential centre for local teenagers to learn rock climbing, caving, canoeing and such adventurous activities.
So I visited Mervin Dann, who was then the President of Downend Round Table, and together we planned a special firework, bonfire display for November 1971, and the proceeds went to our Fedw Farm Appeal.
Alongside many other events and charitable donations, we raised over £10,000, which enabled the purchase, building adaptations and purchase of equipment.
The centre opened in 1972, after much voluntary work from staff and members of the Club. Thousands used it until it was sold in about 1998.
Thank you to Downend Round Table for helping in those early days, and for continuing your charitable work.
Bob Wood
Understanding the Budget
LOCAL financial adviser and Downend Cricket Club sponsor Southgate Wealth Management will be hosting free, one-to-one information sessions at the cricket club on December 11.
The sessions offer the chance to learn more about key themes from the recent Autumn Budget, ask general questions and discuss financial topics you may want to explore further, such as pensions, investments, retirement or inheritance tax planning.
To add some seasonal cheer, mince pies and mulled wine will be available, adding to the relaxed, no-pressure environment for anyone interested in improving their financial awareness.
The 30-minute sessions run from noon to 4pm and are free to attend, although booking is recommended.
Places can be reserved by calling me on 07863 164159 or booking online via bit.ly/11-December-drop-in.
Please note that these sessions do not constitute personal financial advice.
Jonathan Southgate
Southgate Wealth Management
Nominate a community hero
DO you know someone who gives their time freely to help others? Someone who is making a real difference in South Gloucestershire?
Now is your chance to recognize their amazing contribution. The chair of South Gloucestershire Council is calling on residents to say thank you to the unsung heroes who make our communities special by nominating them for the Chair’s Community Awards 2026.
We’re looking for individuals or groups of unpaid volunteers whose efforts reflect our vision of a fairer, greener future for South Gloucestershire.
Categories are: Climate and Nature Champions; Reducing Inequalities; Supporting Children and Young People; Well-being and Independence; Building Better Communities.
For more information on how to nominate visit tinyurl.com/3e2n7jep.
Nominations close on December 5, with an awards ceremony in January.
Marian Mussah
South Gloucestershire Council
Don’t give flu at Christmas
THE NHS is encouraging all eligible people to get their winter flu vaccine in the lead up to the Christmas period.
It can take up to two weeks after you receive your flu vaccination to fully benefit from it.
This is why we are advising all those who are eligible to get their flu vaccine sooner rather than later, to ensure the best protection before the festive season.
December is often the time of year where many of us begin to have gatherings with family and friends, and the weather can drive us indoors, increasing the risk of spreading viruses such as flu. By getting your flu vaccination, you’re not only protecting yourself, but those around you as well.
Those eligible include people aged 65 and over, those in clinical risk groups and close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, pregnant women and children, care home residents and carers, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff.
Eligible adults can book their flu vaccine appointment now via the NHS App, their GP practice, online at www.nhs.uk/bookflu or by calling 119.
Parents are being reminded to complete their child’s school vaccination consent forms or book an appointment for two to three year olds, to ensure their child’s protection ahead of the Christmas break.
Dr Trevor Smith,
Regional Medical Director
NHS England South West