NAILSEA
PEOPLE
Family
Announcements
births, marriages, deaths - and anniversaries and retirements too
email nailseapeople@gmail.com for inclusion free-of-charge
page sponsored by Arthur E Davey & Sons
Arthur E Davey & Sons Ltd
82 Silver Street
Nailsea BS48 2DS
Telephone: 01275 852307
Website: www.aedavey.co.uk
pre 2022
One of the Main men
Much travelled Nailsea window cleaner Pete Main celebrated his 60th birthday with a surprise party bash on Friday, July 18.
Pete said: “Well, well, well, my family have done it again with 60th birthday celebrations for me at the Scotch Horn Centre.
“Once again I fell for it.
“After my 40th, then 50th, you would have thought I'd have learned by now.
“I knew something was 'afoot' but I timidly walked up to the centre supposedly to look for daughter Vicky's purse - yes, yes, yes I fell for it,
“The mighty Corvus played throughout the evening and were as good as ever, plenty of Status Quo and good old rock ‘n’ roll.
“Seeing relatives I haven’t seen for a while who've come from afar, seeing old schoolmates from donkey's years ago – all excellent, and I still haven’t opened any present yet which started to arrived at midnight.
“Thanks and love to all you made is so special.”
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After a London away weekend taking in a show - Jersey Boys - and visiting Kew Gardens on his actual birth date May 24. a week or two later retired car sales executive and Bristol City fan Roy Penney enjoyed a 70th birthday party for family, friends and neighbours at his home at The Hamlet. Roy is pictured wearing a 'vintage' designer T-shirt
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A fun-loving Danny Chu, of Gilly's café, celebrated his 57th birthday on Friday, July 11. We send a belated many happy returns and bet he had the best ever birthday cake!
Happy birthday to boys!
A very happy birth date to Harriet
Welcome to the world Harriet Annabel Ricketts who was born at 9.15pm on Saturday, July 26, weighing 8lb 7oz - a whopping 5oz more than her older brother Tommy.
Parents Michelle (nee Thomas) and Jamie Ricketts said: “She is beautiful and we are both over the moon.”
Michelle lived in Nailsea before becoming an ‘Essex girl’ when she married Jamie and moved to Brentwood.
First born Tommy celebrated his first birthday in May.
It was a lovely sunny September afternoon when beautiful bride Natalie Pitchers, 23, wed her beau Robert Dyfan Jones, 26, at Christ Church, Nailsea.
Former Weston College student Natalie who is a stewardess with easyJet married Southhampton University graduate Dyfan, of Wrington, an actuarial student at Hewitt Associates on Saturday, September 13.
The bride wore an elegant strapless embossed long gown with a sweetheart neckline.
The four bridemaids wore long purple gowns were her two sisters Chelsey, 21, and Lucy, 20, along with best friends Rachel Harris, 23, and Gemma Ball, 24.
Dyfan and his best man Rob Hurst, 26, came colour coordinated wearing purple neckerchiefs, grey evening suits and matching embroidered waistcoats.
Even Lucy’s little son Alfie Coulbourn came along dressed in a matching outfit.
The reception for 150 was at Mendip Spring Golf Club.
Nailsea baker Gina Gregory, of GG's Cake Co, made the three tier wedding cake decorated with iced flowers.
The couple plan to honeymoon at a cottage in Cornwall at a cottage with their two dogs Barley and Nia.
September wedding of Mr and Mrs Jones, of Nailsea
Tributes were paid to a Nailsea teacher and artist at a memorial service this week.
Shelagh Antonovics died on November 19, aged 78.
A loving wife, mother and grandmother Shelagh was the oldest of three daughters born into a happy family at Headington, Oxford.
After grammar school she studied art at Goldsmith College, London, followed by teacher’s training.
She perfected her language skills by stints working abroad mostly in France and Italy.
She met her post graduate student and husband-to-be Latvian-born Atis (Tony) Antonovics at an Oxfordshire dance and they enjoyed many an adventure touring Europe by car before they married in 1965.
When Tony took up a history lectureship at Bristol University the couple moved to a new Nailsea housing estate at Kingsmead where sons Nick and Jon were born.
Shelagh taught for many years at Grove Junior School and ran the after school art club.
As well as being a wonderful cook, fantastic gardener and lover of poetry and jazz she completed a degree course with the Open University in the early 1980s while working full-time.
The service at South Bristol Crematorium was led by humanist celebrant Clare Hanson-Kahn and included heartfelt written tributes read by Nick’s daughter and son Emily and Freddy from daughter-in-law Annie in Shanghai and American brother-in-law Janis and his daughter Kate who were unable to attend.
Shelagh and Tony retired to Chewton Mendip in 2001 where they renovated the Coach House and made it the family home.
Shelagh's artwork Autumn Colours is pictured above.
Donations in Shelagh’s memory are being sent to Bryan G Bishop, funeral service, Farrington Road, Paulton, Bristol BS39 7LW for Medecins Sans Frontierers, the French-founded humanitarian-aid charity.
Goodbye to teacher Shelagh Josephine Antonovics
Fond farewell to Roger Granger
Hundreds of people packed Nailsea Methodist church to celebrate the life of big hearted bus driver Roger Granger.
Roger, aged 61, of Silver Street, who was a long-term volunteer with homeless charity Caring At Christmas was found dead on November 23.
He was born in 1953 to parents John and Betty Granger and the family with younger brother Andrew lived at Chancel Close.
Roger was renowned for his kindnessm and his gentle and calm manner.
He loved vintage vehicles and fattening food.
At the Friday afternoon service led by the Rev Mandy Briggs there were some moving tributes including one from Phil Summerhayes, of Caring In Bristol, and friend Paul MacLeavy who read the poem Not How He Died, But How He Lived.
Roger recorded his coach journeys and adventures on a humorous Facebook page called The Superstar Roger Granger.
It was here Andrew posted this tribute: “To me (and I’m sure to many others) he was a true friend, a sympathetic ear, a wise head and a brilliantly-humoured gentleman. He was these and a myriad of other things to his extensive circle of friends, who will miss him dearly.”
Christmas Day birthday wishes
Not exactly born at in a stable on Christmas Day but where he was to live Nailsea man Noel Joyce celebrated his 51st birthday on Thursday, December 25.
The self-employed builder from Wraxall now lives at Redfield with his partner Mary Beaumont.
His sister Roni also celebrated a birthday during the festive season on Friday, December 26, on Boxing Day.
This cutting was posted on Nailsea Then & Now social media group on Facebook.
Noel was with two other Nailsea men, Steve Snook and Trevor Wyatt, who were caught up in the Tsunami while on holiday in Thailand in 2004.
They all survived but not unscathed as all were deeply affected by the traumatic experience.
Remembering Ross
The 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami was a result of an underwater earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia.
More than 230,000 people died when the massive waves hit the coasts of the countries surrounding the Indian Ocean.
The worst hit countries were Indonesia, India, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
www.nailseapeople.com remembered Ross Baker with this poignant cartoon, left, posted on its Facebook page.
And his mum Jenny Baker who now lives in Plymouth thanked her family and friends for all their kind thoughts and lovely messages on the 10th anniversary of the disaster.
Much-loved Ross lived and went to school in Nailsea before setting off on the beginning of a successful stage career.
He was 26-years-old when he died.
Ross was holidaying on the Thai island of Ko Phi Phi - where 2000 film The Beach was shot – staying at the Chan guesthouse.
He had been starring in the touring musical Fame since the September playing the part of Schlomo Metzenbaum, a shy, classical violinist who plays in a rock band in more than 120 shows.
Producer Adam Spiegel described Ross as an "enormously talented and versatile performer" who would leave a ‘huge void’ in the company.
Many 30-somethings still living in Nailsea and nearby have fond memories of Ross from their days at Hannah More infant, Grove junior and Nailsea School.
His cousin Jodie said at the time of his death: "Ross was unique.
"Everybody who met him loved him.
"He was outgoing, funny, a real optimist and always making people laugh.
"He loved his work and was so happy and confident, kind and generous.
"It's no exaggeration to say he had hundreds of friends throughout the world.”
A decade on and more than 700 local people clicked onto the simply tribute on the FB page – never forgotten.
Valentine's
18th birthday
Nailsea School student Calum Butler celebrated his 18th birthday with a family party at The Old Farmhouse and a night out on the town with sixth form mates.
Calum who was born on St Valentine's Day 1997 is pictured left with mum Annabel Lander and dad Joe Butler and sister Renee.
Calum is set to take A-levels this June before going travelling around Europe then heading for university.
OUR WEDDING DAY:
Cathy and Gary Bradley
A wedding became the best of times for a North Somerset couple who went through the worst of times when their two young daughters died.
Surround by loving family and friends Cathy Fletcher and Gary Bradley turned heartache into happiness on Saturday, February 28, when they married at the Walton Park Hotel, Clevedon.
And friends whooped and clapped when the registrar pronounced Cathy, 43, and Gary, 53, ‘husband and wife’.
After the ceremony the newlyweds went down to St Andrew’s churchyard and here they placed two pink bridesmaids’ posies on the graves of their beloved daughters.
Gary’s daughter Danielle died five days before her ninth birthday in June, 2005.
And it was just months later that Cathy’s daughter Charlotte died in her sleep died on New Year’s Eve 2006.
Despite an 11th hour liver transplant Danielle, who had a little known genetic disorder called Wilson’s Disease in which copper accumulates in tissues, could not be saved.
Nearly 1,000 people attended the funeral at St John’s church for Charlotte who suffered from a rare form of epilepsy.
For Gary and Cathy it was important their big day while remembering the girls should be fun for family and friends.
Gary who moved to Clevedon as an 11-year-old was originally from Brentwood, Essex.
He works as a carpenter and maintenance man at Warren’s holiday village.
And Cathy who grew up in Nailsea where her parents John and Rita Soper still live once worked as a cook at the Friendship Inn.
It was Cathy’s older daughters Stephanie, 19, an undergraduate at Reading University and Clevedon School student Daniella, 15, together with nieces Dionne Sargeant , 10, Chloe Soper, eight, and goddaughter Caitlin Lewis-Clowry, five, who acted as bridesmaids.
The flowers and cake were all themed pink.
The big bridesmaids wore strapless over-the-knee length dusty pink chiffon dresses while the little ones wore baby pink frocks topped with fluffy white shrugs.
Cathy bought her designer silhouette ball gown online.
Made of white taffeta with Swarovski-style crystals covering the bodice and dotted in crushed pocket pleats throughout the skirt it cost a fraction of the High Street price.
Gary and his best man Pete Lukin, who works for a bathroom company at Highbridge went shopping at Primani and Matalan for their smart grey suits, white silk waistcoats and pink cravats.
Gary’s mum Sheila and his grown up children Rachel-Marie, 23, and Edward, 20 were among the 72-strong wedding party and more than 100 joined the evening reception.
A guest wrote afterwards in a thank-you note: “Your wedding was beautiful...every detail was perfection but most of all is the happiness in your faces...pure joy. From the bottom of my heart I wish you both a long, healthy and happy life together, you so deserve it.”
The new Mr and Mrs spent their honeymoon at a country manor house near Padstow, north Cornwall before returning to their Clevedon home.
OBITUARY: Ralph Milne
13 May 1961 – 6 September 2015
The news of Ralph Milne’s demise came in like a staggering old man – was he dead or not?
I have seen an affable Ralph stagger to and from the bars of Nailsea but old he wasn’t...
On Sunday The Scotsman newspaper reported that football legend Ralph Milne was critical at Dundee’s Ninewells hospital suffering from liver and kidney failure.
It said the 54-year-old helped Dundee United win their only Scottish Premier League title in the 80s before moving to Manchester United.
But then his career was curtailed by his battle with alcoholism and has been regularly treated for liver problems.
And less than 24 hours later he was dead although many had jumped the gun on social media saying their sad goodbyes earlier in the day.
Ralph was open about his problems and speaking of his booze demons in 2013 he said: “When my professional playing career ended it hit me hard.
“When you are playing, you can improve your skills, get yourself fitter.
“But as it goes on, you realise that you can’t make yourself faster.
“When it ended, I started drinking more.
“There are times I can’t remember.”
Ralph, who admitted to alcohol and gambling problems after quitting football, netted 21 times during the Arabs’ 1982-83 Scottish championship winning season.
He also scored 15 times during Dundee United’s European adventures during the 80s, which saw them reach the UEFA Cup final in 1987 and the Champions Cup semi-final in 1984.
Ralph was a key figure in those successful sides - and was adored by Tannadice fans.
After leaving United he went on to play for Charlton Athletic and Bristol City, before Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson took him back to the big time with a £170,000 move to the English top-flight.
However, his time at Old Trafford was not a major success with Ferguson saying it was his worse ever signing as Ralph only managed three goals in 22 appearances in his first year at the club.
He was released on June 30 1991, marking the end of his professional career.
Ralph was nearly Nailsea’s own George Best...
I last interviewed him in January 2010 when he gave me a copy of his newly published book What’s It All About Ralphie?
Over the years we spent some good times chatting at The Courtyard wine bar when he reminisced about his life speaking in his broad Scottish accent and then owner Maureen Buchaly recalls many trips with her late partner Simon Hadley, Ralph and other friends from the Nailsea business community to Cheltenham races.
Here is a copy of my interview published in January 2010.
"Putting Ralph Milne behind the bar of a Nailsea pub was like carrying coal to Newcastle - an archetypal pointless activity.
Many former footballers go into management when they retire but perhaps pub management wasn’t one of Ralph’s best choices.
A new book called What’s It All About Ralphie? tells the remarkable story of the legendary Dundee United player who went on to play for Charlton Athletic, Bristol City and Manchester and his struggles on and off the pitch.
Dundee United manager Jim McLean blamed Ralph’s problems with alcohol and gaming for blighting his career.
While manager of the Queen’s Head from spring 2003 to spring 2005 diehard football fans from far and wide made a pilgrimage to the town centre pub.
And they were rarely disappointed as their personable hero often shared a drink (or two) with them and recounted tales of his heyday.
Like the South London Tangerine club of Sunday league footballers who trekked to the Queen’s Head to meet Ralph.
SLT member Neil Forsyth later wrote on their blog: “To most he is more than a man - he is perhaps a movement, a visionary and, dare I say it, a messiah.
“In short he is the Louis Walsh to our Boyzone.
The biography is put together by Ralph and Scottish writer and poet Gary Robertson.
The midfield player was born in Dundee in May 1961 and he lived out many a young footballer’s dream.
On leaving school he signed for Dundee United and gradually forced his way into a team full of great players.
With electrifying pace and exceptional talent, Ralph quickly established himself as a fans’ favourite.
He was part of the legendary team which defied all of the odds to win the Scottish Premier Division in 1983.
However, behind the scenes his volatile relationship with manager Jim McLean culminated in him leaving for Charlton.
After unhappy spells there and at Bristol City he made a dream move to Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United.
Ralph struggled to produce his stunning performances of old and retired a few years later.
Many believe he could and should have done so much better but a personal battle with alcohol probably decided otherwise.
In the eyes of Dundee United football fans he will always be a legend and was introduced into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2009."
What’s It All About Ralphie? is still available to buy at various prices on Amazon.
On Youtube there are also several short films including a serives in a series of 'Ralph Milne Football Legend'.
Carol Deacon
The Milne family has asked the Club to announce details relating to Ralph’s funeral.
The service will be held at Dundee Crematorium on Monday, September 14, at 2.45pm and all family and friends are respectfully invited.
Family flowers only, but donations in lieu, if so desired, can be made at the crematorium in aid of Ninewells Hospital Dundee Ward 2 Comfort Fund.
The cortege will be leaving the service rooms of James Ashton and Son Ltd at 2.15pm, then proceed to Tannadice Street via Dundonald Street, up Arklay Street into Tannadice Street, pausing at Tannadice Park, then along to Dens Park, turning up Provost Road then travelling along Clepington Road and arriving at Dundee Crematorium at 2.35pm for the service to begin at 2.45pm.
The family has also expressed a desire that fans wishing to pay tribute on the day do so on the streets around Tannadice as the cortege passes by.
Dundee United former players and team mates of Ralph, the board of directors and first team squad will leave together from Tannadice to attend the funeral.
On Saturday, at the request of the family, there will be a minute’s silence prior to kick-off followed by a round of applause in the 4th minute of the game to commemorate his goal at Dens in May 1983.The United players will wear black armbands as a further mark of respect and a montage of
Ralph will be played on the LCD screen within the stadium prior to the game.
The club’s matchday magazine has been dedicated to the memory of Ralphie.
Again, with the agreement of his family, there will also be an opportunity for five United fans to celebrate his greatest moment in a United shirt and re-enact Ralph’s chip and celebration upon the pitch at half time during the match versus Kilmarnock.
FUNERAL DETAILS VIA DUNDEE FC
OBITUARY: Steven Joseph Bojtos
4 April 1966 – 2 September 2015
Much loved and remembered by his many mates a Nailsea man who had been suffering from ill-health has died aged 49.
Steven Joseph Bojtos was born in Bristol and moved to Nailsea aged two.
The family lived at Greenfield Crescent and he went to the Pound Lane primary schools before joined the Mizzymead Road comprehensive.
Pictured right with his younger sister Nicola Milsom-James she said: “The cause of death is yet to be determined but he has been very ill and suffered with deep vein thrombosis and COPD which is lung disease/disorder.”
Sadly his late parents Jozef and Margaret died with a month of each other back in 2008.
Nicknamed ‘Boney’ or just ‘Bone’ Steven loved the outdoors and in his youth was an avid coin collector and went out for hours with his metal detector looking for treasure.
Dad Jozef aged 16 came to this country from Hungary after the 1956 uprising and the young refugee was fostered by a Cheddar lady.
He met and married Margaret nee Reid in 1965 and the couple moved to Nailsea with their young family three years later.
As a young girl Margaret had lived at Cherry Road, Nailsea, one of the first new housing developments in the village.
Nicola who married Gary in 1996 and moved to Reading said: “My dad was known as Hungarian Joe or Jo the Hungarian for many years - he was a handful is the polite was to remember him!”
Steven was a lover of 80s punk music Nicola remembers fondly the many friendly sibling squabbles over what to play on their record player – mostly the choice was between Sham 69 versus Adam and the Ants.
Uncle Steven was adored by his nieces are Georgina, 17, Elizabeth, 15, and 13-year-old Melissa.
At Nailsea School Steven played in all the school teams and he was thrilled when Melissa was picked for the county contact rugby team.
He was really excited about watching the Berkshire versus Somerset game later this season, said Nicola.
Steven started work at Keymarket and for some years was behind the counter at The Cheese Shop at Clifton becoming a ‘bit of an expert’ on the Cheddar speciality.
Friend Claire Timms said: “Steven was such a kind gentle soul and I have fond memories of him growing up and hearing his music playing from my Nan’s house.”
School chum Sean Edwards in a memorial posting on Facebook: “Bye Steve...thanks for being such a good friend...also for punching that guy that used to bully me down the English block stairs.”
And fellow school friend Sarah Moolla said: “I knew Steven at school and he was a gentle soul.”
Nicola added: “Steven made some very poor lifestyle choices with drugs which is what eventually took him away from me - he suffered terribly in lots of ways and I am grateful for those who hold good memories of him before his downward spiral and his real friends who remember him for who he truly was.”
The funeral service was at St Francis Catholic Church, Nailsea, on Thursday, September 24.
Stalwart of Nailsea brownies and guides Freda Emily Vowles passed away on Thursday, January 7, aged 92 years.
Her funeral service took place on Monday, February 1, at Nailsea United Reformed Church, followed by a private burial.
Very much loved by the community.
Arthur E Davey & Sons
82 Silver Street
Nailsea BS48 2DS
Tel: 01275 852307
The annual memorial Christmas tree is all lit up.
All donations are for St Peters Hospice.
Please fill free to come into the office and place a tag on the tree in memory of your loved ones.
Obituary: Mr Frank Rogers
Sadly one of the recipients of an annual community award died just one week before the official presentation at Nailsea annual town meeting on Wednesday night.
Frank Rogers died on Wednesday, April 13, aged 77.
However he get his award for his service to music when councillors visited him at home days before to give him the specially engraved Nailsea glass plate to recognise his dedication to music groups.
His daughter Kate said her father did know he was getting the award and was ‘delighted – chuffed to bits’.
Frank had been suffering from leukaemia for some time and for the past year had been trialling pioneering new drugs with some success, said Kate.
Many of the sympathy cards received at the family home at Westway include copies of the support nomination letters sent to the town council naming Frank as a worthy recipient which have been of great comfort my mother Beryl, sister Helen and brother Peter, added Kate.
Frank was the organist and choirmaster at Christ Church for 57 years and at St Quiricus and St Julietta in Tickenham for 19 years.
He led worship every Sunday and set up a choir exchange with the Ivetoftakören in Sweden.
He also organised an annual choir concert for 30 years, raising more than £10,000 for charities.
Frank was also the deputy conductor for Nailsea Choral Society, a steward for Nailsea Festival of Music, served on the committee of the diocesan choral festival and was secretary to Portishead Deanery Choral Association.
Family and friends are welcome at his funeral service on Friday, May 6, at 11.30am, at Christ Church.
Donations in his memory can be made online at Above and Beyond for Bristol Haematology & Oncology Centre by clicking HERE.
John Hobbs tribute
Nailsea United FC chairman Spencer Lee has written a beautiful tribute to club stalwart John Hobbs on the football club website.
He said: "Some of you will no doubt be aware that our club lost its greatest ever servant, John Hobbs, who sadly passed away on Saturday afternoon, July 23.
Quite simply, John was a very exceptional man who for so many years was not only hugely respected and loved by our club, but also by the general Nailsea community and county football organisations.
"Most football clubs have their share of success and failure and as time goes by, players, officials, supporters come and go. John’s dedication to our Club and the game was entirely different – he saw it as a life time commitment.
"We as a club were so extremely fortunate to have had someone of John’s stature, professionalism and expertise.
"His 56 uninterrupted years as the Club’s Secretary tell you nearly everything you need to know about the great man.
"He was so very passionate about Nailsea United FC and never once did his dedication waver, regardless of the club experiencing periods of struggle or success.
"Although he loved to see the club win titles and trophies, his driving motivation was to see the club run well and for its membership to do things correctly..."
To read in full click HERE.
OUR WEDDING DAY: Mr and Mrs Tempan
When Holly Gocoul married Adam Tempan, in front of 80 of their closest friends and family, they chose the historic Tithe Barn at Nailsea for their ceremony.
The couple who got engaged, two years ago, while on holiday in Montenegro exchanged vows on Saturday, August 6.
Holly, aged 28, is an English teacher at Backwell School and Adam, 26, works as an electrician.
They were introduced by Holly’s cousin James Lake back in 2007.
Holly, of Bruton Close, and Adam, of Moorend Spout, have made their home at Portishead Marina.
On the big day, Holly wore a form-fitting ivory mermaid dress in lace and tulle with sweetheart neckline by Spanish designer Pronovias.
She chose eight bridesmaids - Shaun Bullard, Natasha Morris, Adam’s sister Arianne Beardshaw, Jessica Balsam, Sara Hare, and Holly's sisters India, Ellie and Darce Gocoul.
The bridemaids wore full length, champagne silk gowns and carried white bouquets.
Shaun didn’t and, like the best man Daniel Tempan, dressed in suitable wedding attire while Adam, who used to live in Blagdon, dressed in a navy blue, three-piece blue suit by Hugo Boss.
Holly’s mum Nola Wolley said: “It was a lovely sunny day made awesome by family and friends.”
Magdelena Matungi did the make-up for the bridal party, Harriet King and Elizabeth Allward were in charge of hair and the flowers came from Kimberley the Florists at Cadbury Garden Centre with Eve Dunlop capturing the most special moments as the couple's photographer.
The Jamaican wedding breakfast was catered by Rice and Things of Gloucester Road, the Hog Roast was provided by Tim Newton of Cracking Hog Roast, the cake was made by Emma Buston of Bake My Cake and the DJ was Kieran Clarke.
The bar was run by Ring O’Bells.
The couple are very grateful to Pennee Paige and everyone at the Tithe Barn for helping them to make their wedding day everything they wished for and more.
Holly and Adam went to Jamaica on honeymoon.
Remembering loved ones at Christmas
The 2016 Memorial Tree is up and looking nicely filled with tags.
Please pop in Monday and Friday, 9.30am-4.30pm and put a tag on the tree in memory of a love one, and make a small donation to The Children's Hospice South West..
In memoriam: Bard of Somerset
To mark the 50th anniversary of the first recording by Adge Cutler at the Royal Oak pub, Nailsea, funeral directors Arthur E Davey & Sons in association with Young Johnson Mermorial Masons have cleaned and re-lettered Adge's memorial plaque in the wall of Christ Church.
Director Tony Davey said: "This is all part of our on-going commitment to the families we deal with, it needed doing and after seeing the number of people that turned out for the unveiling of Adge's statue, we felt this was something we could do for the community."
Adge lived in Nailsea from the age of two and went to the village schools as well as working at Coates cider factory.
He died in 1974 at just 43-years following a tragic car accident on his way home to Tickenham from a performance.
To view more photos from the High Street statue unveiling click HERE.
OBIT: Norman James Baker
March 10, 1926 – February 24, 2017
Norman Baker, aged 90, was a true ‘son of Nailsea’ and for so many local people to fill Christ Church for his funeral service this week proves testimony to a character whose heart belonged to the village.
Nailsea born and bred Norman was a parish councillor, trustee, school governor and founder member and active participant of many sport, social and church organisations in the small Somerset village that became, in his lifetime, a sprawling commuter town of North Somerset.
He died just a few days short of his 91st birthday in a Clevedon nursing home but much of his long and fulfilled life had been spent with his late wife Peggy at their Station Road bungalow.
The village delivery boy, odd-job gardener and Great Western Railway worker used to boast he had never moved more than 30 yards from Nailsea, said the Rev Alan Thorpe, of the Railway Mission, who welcomed the packed congregation to celebrate Norman’s life.
Norman helped by other town dignitaries set up Nailsea Community Trust with a bequest from philanthropist Joyce Thatcher in 1988.
NCT speaker Nancy Elliott said: “The founders of Nailsea Community Trust established the principals still followed today – to alleviate poverty and to improve the quality of life and develop the mental, physical and spiritual capacities in our communities.
“Norman knew that money is often the only obstacle to getting desperately needed resources or achieving a life-changing ambition – the trust makes things possible.”
Grants to individuals, schools and youth groups have all been possible because of Norman’s implemation of Mrs Thatcher's vision.
Mrs Elliott added: “Hundreds of grants to individuals and families have meant safer homes, support with medical care and sensory impairments, better standards of living.
“Grants have enabled access to education, training and dyslexia support – the trust has enabled participation in character-building activities and helped to broaden horizons which provide opportunities for a better life.”
From music lessons to nature trails, from sports facilities to uniforms for youth and more have all been supported including funding for Nailsea Skatepark.
Former Nailsea Town Council chairman Ian Wilson was among the many at the church on Wednesday, March 29.
He posted this online tribute: “A very principled man and a valuable member of the town council.
“His local knowledge was invaluable.”
Donations in memory of Norman are being collected for Nailsea Playing Fields Association via The Co-operative Funeralcare at 102 High Street.
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Norman and Peggy on their wedding day in 1950 at Holy Trinity church and top in more recent times
FOR HARRIET WITH LOVE: Mum Toni Harris was accompanied by her sons including pop star George Shelley, best known as a former member of the boy band Union J, when she collected the midwifery graduation certificate awarded posthumously by Birmingham University to daughter Harriet. Harriiet aged 21, died after suffering fatal head injuries in the collision with a VW Beetle outside the O2 Academy in Bristol shortly before midnight on April 28, 2017, at Southmead Hospital eight days later. Although the family now live mostly in Clevedon they spent many early years living at Nailsea and Backwell. Toni is fundraising for the hospital as a tribute to Harriet and has made a beautiful memorial garden for her.
Happy 80th birthday Anthony Bush
Farmer, zookeeper, evangelist, author but foremost family man Anthony Bush will be 80 on Sunday, April 8, 2018 but as that is his day of rest his family threw a big party at Noah’s Ark on the Saturday and invited hundreds of friends and relatives.
Never shy of a captive audience Anthony used the occasion to give a Power Point presentation detailing the history of setting up the zoo at his Wraxall farm and all the trials and tribulations his Christian family experienced along the way.
He joked: “It was a way of getting our children and grandchildren to visit us.”
His wife Christina, an artist, spoke of her love and respect for her husband of 54 years.
And children Caspar, Annie, Liz and Larry told of their unconventional upbringing at Moat Farm which was often open house to an assortment of visitors.
The social event was hosted in the Ark Arena, a converted barn, once used to shelter farm animals and store grain but while growing up as a giant indoor adventure playground by the Bush children.
People came from near and far to celebrate and eat cake and before Anthony blew out the four score candles they raised the roof with a more than one rendition of Happy Birthday.
The band and choir led by the musical members of the family also played gospel song Put Your Hand In The Hand - an Elvis song with lyrics rewritten by Anthony.
Some highlights of Anthony’s zoo farm career include creating one of Europe’s largest hedge mazes - built on site in 2003, the arrival of the first Gibbon baby marking the zoo’s 10 year anniversary and Princess Anne opening the Elephant Eden in 2014.
He told those present his pride at the success of the Send A Cow To Africa scheme he pioneered.
The 100-acre site has the largest elephant enclosure in northern Europe and is now home to more than 100 sorts of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates including several important vulnerable species.
Double click on the slide show to see more photos.
To read more about Noah's Ark on this website click HERE.
OBIT: Valerie Janette (Val) Thompson
August 15, 1952 - April 13, 2018
A much-loved former Backwell playgroup leader and Nailsea building society clerk has died.
Valerie Thompson, aged 65, sadly passed away on Friday, April 13, at Weston General Hospital.
Val had been married to Ian Thompson, of Thompson Commercial the letting agent for Crown Glass Shopping Centre, for 44 years.
They met in Basingstoke, Hampshire, the town where Val was born but lived most of their married life at Cleeve.
For the past few years since her health deteriorated and she became disabled through MS Val resided at Yatton Hall care home.
Mother to Mark and Nicola she was also grandmother to Lilia, Rohan, Rosie and Violet.
Ian said: “Val will be much missed.
“She was well known in Nailsea as she worked for Tett Hamilton/Mark Richards insurance brokers in the High Street for many years.
“Before that she jointly ran Rainbow Playgroup at Backwell and was a member of Nailsea Ladies Circle when I was chairman and fellow member of Nailsea & Backwell Round Table.”
Anyone who knew Val is welcome at the funeral service at South Bristol Crematorium on Friday, May 4, at 10.30am.
By request it is family flowers only with donations to MS charities via the Just Giving page set up by her daughter - click HERE.
Nicola said: “Mum was diagnosed with MS nearly 20 years ago.
“I'm sure having the support of the MS therapy centre which is now at Bradley Stoke but was for many years based in Nailsea helped her keep a very positive outlook on life.”
For further details contact the funeral directors Keith C Britton & Sons on 01934 832115.
Remembering James on anniversary walk
On the second anniversary of the premature death of fellow player James Colman teammates from Nailsea United Football Club will again be going on a charity challenge for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).
James, aged 22, died suddenly in his sleep on March 14, 2016, of sudden adult death syndrome.
A year ago 10 friends completed a 24-hour gruelling mountain challenge over peaks in North and South Wales in his memory.
For 2018 they are inviting all players, supporters, friends and family to join us at the location of their last walk at Sugar Loaf mountain, near Abergavenny.
Those taking part are asked to get to Sugar Loaf for 9am on Sunday, May 6.
Sugar Loaf is a gentle gradient lead-up until finishing with a reasonably steep finish to reach the trig point.
After completing the walk the plan is to gather back at the car park for a small celebration.
Further information by texting Stu 0780 824 1105 or Sam 0795 117 1442.
Nailsea United Football Club has been striving to raise funds in James Colman’s memory in order to host a CRY screening day.
The players and supporters are immensely pleased and proud to announce they have booked a screening event for Saturday, August 10, 9am-4pm.
James was an incredibly special and much loved player at Nailsea United and this day could potentially save a life.
The charity CRY will set up their equipment and allow us to screen approximately 100 people aged from 14-35 inclusive.
Screening involves completing a health questionnaire, a doctors consultation and ECG. This will be done in a clean, confidential environment.
An ECG (Electrocardiography) is the process of recording the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time using electrodes placed over the skin. It is very commonly performed to detect any cardiac problems.
The purpose is to not only screen as many people as possible but to raise awareness regarding current and potential future heart conditions.
Prior to the event the club will be taking provisional appointment bookings which will be in 10 minute time slots (three people screened per slot).
Confirmed bookings will be via an online questionnaire and booking system a couple of months before the day.
The day will be run as a family day with various other activities taking place which are currently TBC.
For more information send a message via the Facebook or Twitter for more information.
To learn more about the charity click HERE.
Football club heart screening day
WALK IN WOODS: Go for a walk in Towerhouse Woods and discovered the magical Ty Sculpture Walk. This was created in 2016 on 16-acres of land owned by the Woodland Trust on the borders of Nailsea, Tickenham and Wraxall. It is accessed via Jacklands Lake and built to celebrates the life of Ty Partridge who grew up in a house on the corner of the wood. Ty, who spent much of his free time playing, exploring and making dens here died from leukemia, aged 21 and the trail is the inspiration of his dad Piers, helped by Phil Carter, whose son was a close friend. The 14 sculptures, including a dormouse, badger, fox, buzzard, hedgehog and robin are not obvious, but then neither is nature.
Look in Gallery 2019 to see more beautiful photographs take by Agnieszka Kubiszewska-Krawczyk.
In memory of Bailee Cook
Since Bailee Cook died aged four in April 2018 his family and friends have been remembering him in lots of ways.
And as a fitting memorial to Bailee much of this has involved raising monies for medical research to help others suffering from similar illnesses.
Bailee's parents Jemma Capern and Lee Cook have now been told test results show it is 'very likely' the cause of their small son's death was Mitochondrial Disease.
This is rare disease when the mitochondria in cells are not producing enough energy.
There is huge variety in the symptoms and severity of Mitochondrial Disease and it depends on how many cells are affected and where they are in the body.
Every person with Mitochondrial Disease is affected differently.
Everyone affected will have a different combination of mitochondria that are working and not working within each cell.
Mitochondrial Disease is usually progressive and unfortunately, there is no cure at present.
In October Bailee's family including friend Steph Carradine organised a Halloween party at the Grove Sports & Social Centre to raise money for The Children's Mitochondrial Disease Network.
Jemma said: " The party was a great success selling out 100 tickets within days."
The hire costs including decorations were covered by the Grove and Nailsea United Football Club.
Jemma said: "The fantastic support from friends and family made the party atmosphere and we had a wonderful tombola, search for the creepy crawlies game and some wonderful hand decorated rocks by friend Jackie."
As well as those who came to the event and donated tombola prizes support also came from MAP Electrical Contractors Ltd, solicitors MC Hullah & Co and Tesco Nailsea.
Jemma added: "We raised a fantastic amount of £618.75 which will go to research and raising awareness of this dreadful disease."
To date £2,742 has been raised from the wear Blue For Bailee day including £614 from Golden Valley Primary School and £100 from Trendlewood Church which has gone to The Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal at Bristol Children's Hospital.
Bailee was a much-loved and popular little boy who had just began his school life at Golden Valley Primary School.
To donate in Bailee's name to The Children's Mitochondrial Disease Network (registered UK charity no. 1070533) via their website www.cmdn.org.uk.
FOREVER LOVED: This is the official unveiling of Bailee's playground bench paid for with monies raised by Golden Valley Primary School pupils, parents and staff in loving memory of their classmate who died unexpectedly in April 2018
BENCH MEMORIAL: The family and friends have put up a memorial bench in the field at Grove Sport & Social Centre to remember young Nailsea mum Claire Tavener who was murdered last year. The much loved mother-of-two was aged 27 when she was killed at her home in Brendon Gardens, by her 45-year-old husband Andrew Tavener last January. He is serving a life sentence. The couple had two sons – Rory, seven, and Blake, four – who are now being raised by Claire’s parents Steve and Sarah Willmott. Her mum and dad wanted to put up a lasting tribute to Claire where her family and friends can gather to remember her. More than 50 invited guests attended the unveiling ceremony at St Mary's Grove. The bench has been jointly funded by Steve and Sarah and Nailsea Town Council. A Go Fund Me appeal started by close friend Laura Tyler to support the children has raised £18,004 in the past 13 months. To donate to the appeal, visit www.gofundme.com/claires-little-family
Remembering Garry 'Gazza' Scutcher
Family and friends of a Nailsea motorcyclist who died after hitting a wild boar while riding on a motorway in France are raising money in his memory.
Garry Scutcher, aged 44, a married man with two young sons, was travelling along Highway A28 Abbeville-Rouen on April 27 last year when he hit a wild boar and came off his Honda motorbike, an inquest on Thursday, March 21.
His wife Joanne Scutcher, a product and marketing manager, set up a fundraising tribute page for Freewheelers EVS, also known as the Blood Bikes, which provide a free out-of-hours emergency courier service to hospitals, hospices and specialist centres in South West England.
This raised £2,682 for the charity including a large donation St Francis RC School.
The couple settled in Nailsea nearly 10 years ago to bring up their two young sons, now aged seven and 10.
Joanne said: “Before having children Garry and I travelled throughout western and eastern Europe and into Russia by motorbike...just us, our bike and our tent.
“His death was devastating but I have so many amazing memories.”
Their oldest son was born in Australia before they headed to the UK and North Somerset and a forever family home in Nailsea.
An inquest into his death at Avon Coroners Court heard how Mr Scutcher, an accountant with Lloyds, suffered 'unsurvivable' injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The accident happened during the early hours of the morning and Mr Scutcher was found lying on his back in the middle of the carriageway by a French lorry driver.
He was on route to Spain and a big bike meet.
The remains of a wild boar were discovered by the central reservation.
Mr Scutcher's motorbike was found in the grass by the side of the road.
His helmet is believed to have come off as a result of the impact.
A post-mortem examination by Dr Russell Delaney revealed that Mr Scutcher had suffered head, chest, neck and pelvic injuries as well as leg fractures. It was likely he would have been rendered instantly unconscious as a result of the crash.
Toxicology reports showed Mr Scutcher had no alcohol or drugs in his system.
An investigation into the crash was launched by French police.
Lorry driver Jeremy La Forge was driving his articulated truck along the A28 at around 2.40am on April 27, 2018 when he noticed what he thought was debris in the road.
In a statement to the inquest Mr La Forge said: "I noticed something which looked like debris in the road.
"I turned my headlights on full beam, and I could see a person lying in the middle lane.
"The man's helmet had come off and was no longer in place.
"I rang the police and, as I did so, I saw a dead wild boar lying next to the central reservation and a motorcycle in the grass."
Mr La Forge said he had travelled along the motorway every day for two years and had never seen a wild animal on the road before.
Sergeant Fabrice Desperelle was called to the scene of the accident.
Sgt Desperelle said: "The remains of the boar were in the left-hand lane and several metres away was a damaged bike.
"Further along from the bike was a body of a person lying on his back.
"It was clear the motorcyclist had hit the wild boar which had caused him to fall off his bike.
Despite attempts to resuscitate Mr Scutcher by paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
On the tribute page, Mr Scutcher, known as Gazza to his friends, and pictured top was described as 'an incredible human being' who was 'happiest on his bike'.
Mr Scutcher, of Rowan Close, was in the process of becoming a volunteer for the Blood Bikes charity at the time of his death.
Avon assistant coroner Terence Moore recorded a conclusion that Mr Scutcher died as a result of a road traffic accident.
Contributions in memory of Garry can still be made at the Freewheeler EVS JustGiving page by clicking HERE.
GARDEN PARTY: On a sunny summer's day Lynda Dicks celebrated her 70th birthday with family and friends in the garden of her Station Rise, Backwell, home. Lydna is a stalwart of Holy Trinity church, former chairman of the Nailsea Community Christmas Fair and runs the Christmas day community lunch for Nailsea people. Her birthday is on the same date as the The Storming of the Bastille on July 14 althoughtthis historical event took place a few years earlier in 1789. She is pictured with husband John wearing the appropriately tropical shirt to man the barbecue and the bar
CADBURY HOUSE: The 70th birthday party of former Clevedon Mercury editor was a cocktails and cake soiree followed by a sleepover for family and friends at the fantastic Congresbury hotel. Some had travelled from just down the road in Nailsea while others had come a lot further including friends from New York and Spain
TITHE BARN: Former Nailsea Town Council chairman Clare Hunt celebrated her 70th birthday with a tea party in the historic barn opposite her Nailsea home. She is pictured with fellow councillors and friends who enjoyed cake and fizz and a rousing Happy Birthday singalong. The stunning birthday cake was commissioned by daughter Katherine
LADY IN RED: Former Nailsea resident Melanie Greenwood is serenaded by the band during her AB FAB 60th celebrations at Barley Wood, Wrington in December. Family and friends enjoyed a super duper night of food, fun and fabulousness and the 18th century country house which was awash with fizzy drinks and funky sounds. The atmospheric evening was captured by guests in an amazing photo booth full of laugh aloud picture props...
PARTY PEOPLE: Retired deputy head teacher Jo Hopkinson celebrated her 60th birthday with family and friends who partied both indoors and outside during a wonderful evening at her Beech Road, Nailsea, home. Husband Geof acted as aide-de-camp lighting a novel number of chimineas and wood burners to keep the guests was as the April weather had turned a little chilly in the garden. The cake was a work of art, finger food amazing, copious amounts of alcohol flowed and its was full marks for hospitality...
BIRD, Elsa, of Cherry Road, Nailsea. passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2019, aged 82 years. She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. A memorial service for the much loved mother, grandmother and friend will be held at Holy Trinity Church, Nailsea on Wednesday, April 24, at 1.30pm. Family flowers only please but donations, if desired to The Grand Appeal c/o Arthur E Davey & Sons, 82 Silver Street, Nailsea, BS48 2DS.
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30TH ANNIVERSARY: Nailsea neighbourhood police sergeant Mark Raby with a little help from his friends used an unusual format to say happy 30th wedding anniversary to wife Julie at Bristol Airport. Julie, aged 51, was waiting for Mark, 52, who had been away on a rugby tour. She was surprised when one of his friends got off the flight, approached her and handed her a rose. A string of Mark's proceeded to each give her a single rose - before her husband arrived carrying the final flower. Mark said: "There were 30 roses for 30 years of happy marriage. I had been away for a rugby tournament in Krakow and it had been planned for months, unfortunately it coincided with my 30th wedding anniversary. My wife said I could go and that she didn't mind. I thought, what can I do to say thank you? So I ordered 30 red roses and I agreed it with the airport. A tearful Julie said: "I was totally surprised, I didn't expect it at all. He does surprise me with romantic gestures when I least expect them - he'll go to do the shopping and return with a bunch of flowers. It was a huge surprise, it was very romantic."
Smoke got in their eyes
Firefighters rushed to Nailsea Tithe Barn on Saturday, August 3, after a wedding disco smoke machine set off alarms.
The bride and groom were ‘rescued’ by the Clevedon Road crew.
Thanks to Avon Fire & Rescue Service for the photo.
You can view more firefighters photos at Gallery 2019 on a scary training session.
Click HERE.
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes comes from the show song written by American composer Jerome Kern and lyricist Otto Harbach for the 1933 musical Roberta.
It has been recorded by lots of singers since including Bryan Ferry.
LOST RING: Andrea Tidball is devastated by the loss of her engagement ring. The precious ring slipped off her finger in the Vowles Close area of Wraxall. She said: “A truly happy occasion had been marred by the loss of my engagement ring. A 14ct rose gold ring set with opal and citrine gem stones engraved with ‘Andrea and Grahame’.“ Please keep a look out for ring in photo. A kindly Nailsea resident with a metal detector could help?
FLOWER CHILD: Baby Lily Amy Patricia Derrick was born at 10.13am on August 5, 2019, weighing 7lb 8.5oz. She is a first child for proud mum and dad Wendy and David Derrick, of Station Road, Backwell. Wendy who is on maternity leave from her job as Tesco Nailsea stock control and admin manager is an acomplished photographer and took this perfect professional quality picture of baby Lily at just a few weeks old plus the lovely family snap.
A 20-strong volunteer band of gardeners tend the flower beds and floral hanging baskets in Nailsea town centre.
The award-winning group called Nailsea In Bloom have been working tirelessly for nearly 20 years to bring colour and vibrancy to our street scene.
For 2019 they are setting up a poppy appeal to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.
The idea is to ask Nailsea people to sponsor a large remembrance poppy to be 'planted' in one of the four beds which Nailsea In Bloom looks after in the town.
Residents sponsoring a poppy will be able to have up to four names written on each poppy and there is a minimum £5 donation per poppy.
To take part download and complete the form attached HERE and put this and your donation in an envelope to be placed in a box at the Tithe Barn.
Printed forms are also be available at 65 High Street.
The poppies will be planted in the flower beds from Friday, October 25, until after Remembrance Day services on Sunday, November 10.
The last day to apply for sponsorship is Friday, October 11.
Nailsea in Bloom chairman Wendy Mobbs who has led the gardening group for the past three years said: “The poppy ideal came about last year when we put a Tommy figure in one of our beds at the end of the High Street with some poppies around him and it struck us that we could raise so money for the Royal British Legion, by doing something similar which we think people will support."
The Tommy silhouettes were to commemorate the end of World War 1.
The figure was called ‘There But Not There’ represented the 888,246 British and Commonwealth service personnel who lost their lives as a result of the conflict.
Next year May Day which is traditionally on a Monday is being put back to Friday, May 8.
This is the 75th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day) when fighting against Nazi Germany came to an end in Europe.
Various events are being planned in Nailsea to mark this date and it will be a school holiday.
Nailsea in Bloom Poppy Appeal
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10
The parade will form up at Holy Trinity church hall at Church Lane at 10.25am then march to church.
The welcome will be done by the Rev James Packman followed by the laying of wreaths, reading roll of honour and then proceeding into church for Remembrance Service with Last Post, two minutes silence and Reveille.
ARMISTICE DAY MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11
At approximately 10.40am everyone will assemble at Somerset Square facing the Waitrose supermarket entrance, The opening prayer will be given by the Rev Packman followed by the Royal British Legion wreath laying, Last Post and at 11am it will be the two minutes silence, Reveille and parade dismiss.
There will be street collections at various times.
FOREVER REMEMBERED: In the flower bed on the corner of Stockway North and High Street stands the near life-size silhouette of a British soldier. The iconic image of a 'Tommy' wearing a single red buttonhole and surrounded by memorial poppies gave the people of Nailsea the opportunity to remember their loved ones while donating to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. Nailsea in Bloom spokesman Wendy Mobbs said: "We would like to thank people for supporting us in our new venture. We are thrilled to announce we raised £518 for the the RBL. I am sure you all were pleased with how they looked and if anyone who sponsored a poppy would like to have the poppy please contact me on Wendy.mobbs@tiscali.co.uk."
A small rodent named Howes is ready to continue the work of brave Backwell man Chris Howes who was murdered by the Khmer Rouge in 1996.
The ‘hero’ female rat who has been trained by humanitarian non-profit making organisation APOPO to detect mines will soon save the lives and limbs of farmers and their families in one of the world’s most anti-personnel mined countries, Cambodia.
This is the work Chris was doing for the international mine-clearing charity Mines Advisory Group (MAG) when he was killed along with his translator Houn Hourth.
Friend and fellow Nailsea School student Mark Appleby said: “Earlier this year, I visited the Apopo Hero Rat centre in Siem Reap while in Cambodia with my wife Cheryl.
“We were in awe of the amazing work their hero rats do in detecting anti-personnel land mines in previously war torn countries and detecting tuberculosis in remote third world locations.
“Too light to set off a landmine, these incredible, adorable, sensitive, characterful and highly trained animals clear mine infested land 20 times faster than human teams with metal detectors.
“Plus, they only detect live ordinance with TNT/explosive material in them ignoring metal shrapnel that often slows down conventional demining teams.
“Their work enables the handing over of immensely valuable land back to the poor, local people who need it to farm subsistence or cash crops.
“The stark reality is that much of this ‘uncleared’ land is still farmed by families who have no economic choice working carefully on narrow footpaths a human foot wide and risking tragedy on a daily basis.”
The African Giant Pouched Rat is native to Tanzania where the worldwide APOPO training centre is located.
Fully grown they are the size of small cats, are sensitive, virtually blind with an amazing sense of smell.
Their work life is between six and eight years and then they retire to APOPO centres where they demonstrate for the public, take it easy and spend their pension on unlimited bananas, added Mark.
It was Mark who told the APOPO staff the self-sacrificing story of Chris and the rest is history as they say.
A street plaque in Phmon Penh already honours our local hero.
You can learn more by watching the video.
Mine sweeping rat named in memory of local hero
Great Western Air Ambulance invited people to join them for its annual Forever Flying Remembrance Service.
The service at Leigh Court is on Sunday, December 1 at 4pm.
Come along, listen to choirs, readings and take this moment to remember and celebrate your loved ones.
The lovely tranquil surroundings of Leigh Court is a special place to remember loved ones.
Prior booking is essential.
To book email Lamorna on lamorna.hooker@gwaac.com or telephone 0303 4444 999.
A GWAAC memorial sycamore ornament to hang on your Christmas Tree in memory of your loved one costs £30 and can be ordered by clicking HERE.
The airborne charity provides emergency care to people who are in a state so critical that they require the specialist skills of our team at the scene of the accident or medical incident.
Though part of the regional 999 response service and work closely with NHS hospitals it is a charity entirely funded by local people.
GWAAC saves lives across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire, North Somerset and surrounding areas.
MEMORIAL TREE: Arthur E Davey & Sons Christmas memorial tree is up in its reception area. Everyone is welcome to put a memorial tag on the tree from 9am-5pm weekdays. Donations are being collected this year for the charity Guide Dogs For The Blind
friends have been constantly with Terry as he gently slipped away at his home in north London.
"We have all lost a kind, funny, warm, creative and truly loving man whose uncompromising individuality, relentless intellect and extraordinary humour has given pleasure to countless millions across six decades.
"His work with Monty Python, his books, films, television programmes, poems and other work will live on forever, a fitting legacy to a true polymath.
"His work with Monty Python, his books, films, television programmes, poems and other work will live on forever, a fitting legacy to a true polymath."
"Terry was an original member of Monty Python, and was largely responsible for getting the group together.
"The Pythons are credited with creating some of the world's most famous comedy sketches of all time, also releasing several hit movies including Life of Brian and The Holy Grail.
Eric Idle, another member of the highly influential comedy troupe, recalled the ‘many laughs [and] moments of total hilarity; they shared.
"It's too sad if you knew him, but if you didn't you will always smile at the many wonderfully funny moments he gave us," he went on. (left) with fellow Monty Python stars Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Michael Pal
Terry Gilliam, with whom Jones directed the group's film The Holy Grail in 1975, described his fellow Python as a ‘brilliant, constantly questioning, iconoclastic, righteously argumentative and angry but outrageously funny and generous and kind human being’.His family issues this statement :"We are deeply saddened to have to announce the passing of beloved husband and father, Terry Jones. Terry passed away on the evening of 21 January 2020 at the age of 77 with his wife Anna Soderstrom by his side after a long, extremely brave but always good-humoured battle with a rare form of dementia, FTD.
"Over the past few days his wife, children, extended family and many close
Nailsea friends and family will mourn the passing of Monty Python star Terry Jones, who died this week aged 77.
His late brother Nigel Parry-Jones lived in our North Somerset town and Terry along with Michael Palin gave the most memorable eulogy at Holy Trinity church at Nigel’s funeral.
Born in Wales Terry, actor and writer, is best known for Monty Pylon but he started off after Oxbridge playing a variety of characters in the iconic Flying Circus TV series and directed several of their films.
He was a popular children’s author and it was in this capacity he also came to Nailsea to do book readings.
He died on Tuesday, January 21, four years after contracting a rare form of dementia.
The BBC reported online that David Walliams and Simon Pegg were among other comedians who remembered him.
Fellow Python star Sir Michael Palin described Jones as ‘one of the funniest writer-performers of his generation’.
In a tweet, John Cleese said he was ‘a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm’.
Terry Jones RIP
AT THE END OF SHIFT: Fireman Eric Pimm, aged 64, hangs up his hose after 39 years working with the Avon Fire & Rescue Service now based at Pound Lane, Nailsea. But Eric isn't going to totally retire as he is going to remain 'on call' for AF&RS at the Avonmouth fire station. Colleagues in Nailsea rallied for a farewell surprise and caught their goodbyes to Eric film
2020 Virgin Money London Marathon postponed to Sunday, October 4
Marathon run in memory of Peter Ongley
Trainee train driver Shane Ongley-Jones is hoping he doesn’t run out of puff when he takes part in his first marathon for a charity at the heart of his family.
Nailsea resident Shane, aged 40, lives in the flats above the shopping centre with his wife Liz, 35, a registered nurse.
And it is especially for his wife and mother-in-law Cheryl that Shane, is currently in training for the London Marathon on Sunday, April 26, to raise money for Bloodwise.
Bloodwise, which was formerly called Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research is the UK's leading blood cancer research charity.
Shane said: “I married my wife in November 2019, an amazing day but was missing one vital person, her father Peter Ongley.
“Peter was a kind, fit, loving family man who saw the best in everyone and was grateful for his life and to be alive every day.
“He died in Feb 2015, eight months before I met my wife.
“Liz and her family lost someone pretty special that day and the aftermath has affected and devastated them every day since.
“Peter was diagnosed in December 2013 with Leukaemia, Atypical Chronic Myeloid (CML) overlapped with Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).
“The leukaemia was the rarest of the rare, so they were unable to permanently name and diagnose.
“It was so rapid and constantly changing it was very difficult and challenging to treat.
“In the final weeks of his life he was offered a trial with only five per cent chance of success, he loved life so much he would take any odds to beat this awful illness.
“I believe like him, sometimes even that little bit of hope is worth it even if the odds are stacked against you.
JustGiving
“Bloodwise helped fund this trial giving people a chance of beating this disease.
“I have never run a marathon before, this will be the most challenging and difficult thing I have ever done so far in my life.
“But this challenge is nothing compared to what others have and are going through.
“I’m running this to honour this amazing man and to help give hope to people fighting blood cancer just like Peter fought until the very end.”
Shane has set himself a target of finishing the 26.2 miles in under five hours.
He added: “My aim when I started was to try a marathon when I hit 40, it didn’t matter which one but got lucky and managed to get a place in this year’s London marathon which incidentally is also the 40th anniversary of the race.”
Shane has already raised £840 of his £1,000 target but would be happy to exceed this total.
Blood cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the UK.
And while huge progress has been made in improving treatment since it started in 1960, it is still the third biggest cause of UK cancer deaths – taking more lives each year than breast or prostate cancer. Even for those who survive, the long-term effects of treatment can be devastating.
To help Shane go to his JustGiving page by clicking HERE.
PHOTO: Shane Jones and the father-in-law he never meet Peter Ongley
MATTHEWS, NICHOLAS passed away on 14th March 2020 aged 59 following a sudden illness. Dearly loved husband, father, son and brother. Nick will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Due to current events, the cremation service will be immediate family only. A memorial service in celebration of Nick's life will be held at a later date. Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Nick may be sent to Arthur E Davey & Sons Ltd for the Above & Beyond Charity and British Heart Foundation.
MATTHEWS (MARCHANT) NICK. Beloved son of Margaret and brother to Andrew and James. Nick fought so hard for the past 10 years but never gave up on life.
Obituary: Chris Smith
A second Nailsea man who had relocated to New Jersey, US, has died of coronavirus.
Chris Smith, aged 67, died in hospital on Friday, March 27.
Chris lived for many years in a cottage at Chapel Barton.
Born in Stourport, Worcestershire he moved to Nailsea in 1984 although he travelled extensively for work mostly in UAE and Singapore.
He finally settling in the north eastern state where he met his American partner Kathy Maroney Turlick.
Kathy said: "My heart is breaking.
"Chris had so many friends here in the US and in England that loved him dearly.
"I feel was blessed to have had Chris in my life.
"He really enjoyed life to the fullest everyday, he was such a giving person.
Former landlord of the Sawyers Arms Ron Peters confirmed the sad news to Nailsea people.
Chris a computer programmer was a regular at the Sawyers where he was fondly known to regulars as ‘Smithy’.
Mike and Jane Hobbs had been friends with Chris for more than 30 years.
Jane said: “Chris had a massive personality and a big heart.
“He had a way with words and loved intelligent banter.
"He was very bright, very astute and a great debater.”
A Rolling Stones fan and lover of fast cars he drove a sporty Mazda with a unique number plate, she said.
Chris settled in the US more than a decade ago and only recently retired when he got his US citizenship.
Jane added: “He was in the UK in August last year to see his family and visited Nailsea to see friends.
“He would rock up totally unannounced with his suitcase and a bottle of booze, you wouldn’t see him for ages and then he was there.
“He is godfather to my 29-year-old daughter Alex and she meet him in New York in 2018 and visited his 33rd floor penthouse which had views across to the Empire State building.
"Before the pandemic we had all been planning a big reunion for her 30th birthday in New York which is on the same date as Mick Jagger's birthday on July 26.
"In my last email to Chris I urged him to stay safe.
"He will be sorely missed."
Kathy added: "We hope to have a celebration of his life later this this summer in the US and then I will be bring back Chris back to the UK to have another celebration with Chris' family and friends."
New Jersey has the second-highest number of cases of any state in the US.
The United States has more than 20,000 deaths to date.
"To think of others during a crisis is the philosophy this group was born from and Iain symbolised this in every way.
"He was aware he had a battle on his hands but this didn’t deter him in the slightest and each and every day he brought passion, energy and humour to the team along with a commitment to helping those less fortunate.
"Well done to Iain and also well done to the whole of Nailsea.
"As a group we send a huge hug to all of Iain’s family and friends.
Nailsea Legend Iain Bugler has been chosen by BBC Radio Bristol as one of their Make A Difference Superstars.
Nominated by the Nailsea Community Group for his stirling work as a volunteer he will have a new High Speed GWR Train named after him.
NCG leader James Steel said; "I am overwhelmed for his wife Kate, children, family and friends.
"Also for Iain himself who embodied everything that this group stands for and was just one in a million.
"He put helping residents in need above himself at such a difficult time and he is a true Nailsea legend and someone that will never be forgotten.
"Iain had just recovered from chemotherapy and radiotherapy when lock down began and he joined the group to help those people in Nailsea that required support.
"He launched and spearheaded the hot food service working with The Farmhouse, Coates House and Ring O'Bells which provided more than 2,500 hot meals to those in need across Nailsea.
"The further treatment Iain had didn’t have the desired result and after a hard recovery from surgery things developed quickly."Sadly he lost his battle on July 1st leaving his family and friends heartbroken and Nailsea one legend short.
Nailsea superhero Iain Bugler 1969-2020
The Royal British Legion is not selling poppies in the streets of North Somerset this year.
It has also cancelled its regional City Poppy Days including the one in Bristol.
A spokesman said: “This decision has been taken to safeguard our staff, volunteers and the public in the unprecedented challenges that Covid-19 poses for this year’s Poppy Appeal.
“While disappointing for all concerned, we would like to stress that this decision has not been taken lightly and hopes that anyone affected understands why this decision has been made at this time.
“We are committed to delivering these events in 2021, subject to further Covid-19 restrictions.”
On Sunday, November 8, the National Service of Remembrance is planned to be held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in London.
But due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the RBL is reviewing its events and to ensure better clarity on the situation in November will communicate its full plans for this year’s Cenotaph dispersal soon.
Nailsea in Bloom Poppy Appeal 2020 spokesman Wendy Mobbs said: “After last year’s success with the Poppy Appeal Nailsea in Bloom is running the scheme once again with the support of Royal British Legion who unfortunately will not be able to sell poppies this year due to the Covid-19.
“There will be no collectors with boxes in supermarkets, shops, pubs or schools by the local branch of Royal British Legion.
“The appeal will be carried out by the supermarkets themselves which has been organised by RBL and supermarkets head offices.
“We will place our large poppies in one of four beds which Nailsea in Bloom looks after in the town and will donate the proceeds to the appeal.
“Residents sponsoring a poppy will be able to have up to four names written on each poppy in memory of a loved one and there is a minimum £5 donation per poppy.
“Printed forms will be available at 65 High Street and can be left in the box left just inside on a table at the Tithe Barn with the donation in an envelope.
“The large poppies will be placed in the beds from Thursday, October 22 and will remain in the beds for four weeks.”
A 20-strong volunteer band of gardeners tend the flower beds and floral hanging baskets in Nailsea town centre.
The award-winning group called Nailsea In Bloom have been working tirelessly for nearly 20 years to bring colour and vibrancy to our street scene.
It was in 2019 they set up a poppy appeal to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.
To take part download and complete the 2020 form attached HERE and put this and your donation in an envelope to be placed in a box at the Tithe Barn.
Nailsea in Bloom chairman Wendy Mobbs who has led the gardening group for the past four years said: “Our aim is to help Nailsea look good with new plants twice a year.
“The poppy ideal came about from 2018 when we put a tommy figure in one of our beds with some poppies around him and it struck us that we could raise so money for the Royal British Legion, by doing something similar which we think people will support.”
For further information you can email Wendy at Wendy.mobbs@outlook.com.
Nailsea Poppy Appeal 2020
GARDEN OF REST: The beautifully tended garden full of colourful flowers and plants at Stockway North, Nailsea
FOND MEMORIES: Philip Ralph Williams passed away after a battle with cancer on Monday, August 31, 2020 aged 68 years. He was a much loved Nailsea gentleman, well known for his work at Blue Iris Coaches Nailsea, PS Travel and Silverlink. He was also president of Nailsea & District Horticultural Society. His funeral service on Wednesday morning, September 16, at South Bristol Crematorium was followed by a service at Christ Church Nailsea. Due to limited mourner numbers, people lined Stockway North to pay their last respects. It was family flowers only but donations in memory of Phillip for RNLI may be sent c/o Arthur E Davey & Sons, 82 Silver Street, Nailsea, BS48 12DS. Tel: 01275 852307.
RIP KEITH LEWIS: Much loved Nailsea character Keith Lewis died at the end of October 2020. It was not Covid-19 related. He was aged 75. Keith worked for Turner's Coaches for many years doing PS Travel trips and then onto Silverlink coaches. Close friend Mike Cross said: "He will be sadly missed by everyone." Keith leaves behind two daughters and grandchildren.The funeral on Thursday, November 19, left the Coop funeral home at 3pm to drive over The Downs then service is at 3.45pm at Canford. Unfortunately only 20 allowed so anyone wishing to pay their respects will have to be outside. Lots of lovely tributes were left on the Nailsea People Facebook page posting
One of Nailsea’s best known and much-loved characters Bob Williams has died aged 87.
Bob was born in London in 1933 and moved to Somerset in the 1960s.
He was employed in the carpet and flooring trade and before opening his Nailsea business worked for a Bristol-based American company.
The family moved Hillcrest Road, Nailsea in the early 1960s and then out to West End in 1967.
In 1971 he founded Mendip Carpets in Nailsea High Street.
Mostly remembered in the town for his wicked sense of humour, Bob was a keen Nailsea footballer in the 60s and later an active member of Nailsea Lions Club and Nailsea Freemasons.
Charity summer garden parties around the swimming pool were a feature of life at West End.
When his eldest son Steve joined the company from Long Ashton District Council the pair could be spotted most workdays on ‘their table’ dining at the Golden Spur.
It was Bob who introduced the concept of a ‘personal shopping’ at Waitrose supermarket with a staff member tasked to do push the trolley, Steve remembered fondly in his eulogy.
Granddaughter Charlie Williams, who is a nurse, posted online her memories of the funeral service.
She said: “The sun shone for you today Grandad.
“Our family is truly overwhelmed and filled with gratitude for the hundreds of people that braved the cold this morning to wish Bob Williams a final farewell on his last journey around Nailsea.
“Due to Covid restrictions we could not give him the send-off we would have liked, nor the one he deserved but the volume of people that wore their masks, maintained social distancing and turned out to line the three-mile route was wonderful to see and a reflection of just how loved he was. “As the horse and carriage stopped outside Mendip Carpets people clapped and cheered and we felt so much pride to have been part of such a special man's life.
“Bob was an active member of the community, a larger-than-life character, generous to a fault with an unforgettable sense of humour and fun and the best Granddad a girl could wish for.
“We are not sure how we are going to manage without him, but we do know he has left us with a lifetime of fun-filled memories and love.
“We would like to thank Arthur Davey & Co and Blagdon Horse Drawn Carriages for their exceptional organisation of the funeral and for acting with such care, compassion and professionalism at such a difficult time.
“Thank you to the Church of St Bridget in Chelvey for a lovely service, Kimberley’s Florist for the beautiful flower arrangements and to all Bob's friends, family and customers for making his send off such a special one.
“I would personally also like to thank all the wonderful doctors and nurses at UHBW especially my own team for all the great care and kindness they gave to Grandad in his final weeks, you are all amazing x.
“Rest in peace Bobby, you were so loved and we will miss you immensely.”
Bob leaves loving wife Brenda, children Steven, Vanessa and Russell, three grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Obit: Bob Williams
July 1933-January 2021
Some serious training is going to be needed before a group of Nailsea friends tackle a 100-mile sponsored bike ride in memory of their pal Arron King who died aged 19 of a rare cancer.
All nearly didn’t bode well on Sunday morning when Jude Balshaw arrived last for the first training session huffing and puffing and saying: “I nearly didn’t make it up The Perrings.”
But it was all good humoured as they pumped tyres in readiness while reminiscing about Arron.
Tinged with sadness but purposeful the 11-strong band set out from the entrance of The Grove towards Yatton and the Strawberry Line for a 35-mile ‘get fit’ practice run buoyed by the fact the memorial fund for Arron was now touching £13k, thousands more than first hoped.
The cyclists joked that leader Sam Crocker was the only one among the former Nailsea School classmates who was in peak condition.
For the actual ride the youngsters will be wearing T-shirts supplied by Greatwood Jenkins the kitchen and bathroom fitters where Arron worked.
The funeral has been organised for Thursday, March 18, and the cortege will leave the family home in Portland Close to travel along Queens Road into Mizzymead Road and onto Stockway South to give people the opportunity of paying their last respects to this much-loved young man.
Because of Covid-19 restrictions the actual service which will be streamed has had to be limited to just 20 close family and friends.
More than 20 have signed-up for the cycle ride from Taunton back to Nailsea on the Easter weekend.
Music fan Arron who was a budding DJ died on Wednesday, February 17, just three weeks after getting the diagnosis of an incurable and very rare sarcoma.
Mum Jayne King, a dinner lady, said: “It makes me so proud to know how much he was loved.
“We have been overwhelmed by all the messages of condolences including Nailsea School staff even teachers who have since left have been in touch.”
Jayne and his dad Rich were with Arron when he died and her partner James Sims is taking part in the bike ride.
Big sister Kirstin Ling and younger brother Tyler, 12, and the whole community are in mourning.
Kirstin said: "I just can't get over everyone's well wishes.
"We just thought we were a small family in Nailsea and everyone is pouring out with love and support for us, even those who don't know us!
"Thank you, Arron would be so grateful but even more gobsmacked that so many people care about him.
"His bravery and strength he showed through his short battle will help us as a family get through this horrendous time.
"Arron will be leaving my mum's house at noon so people can line up for then.
"The funeral service will be at 12.45pm but strictly no one else can attend the crematorium, even outside as mum has had to sign a disclaimer saying she'll pay if a fine is given."
Dad Rich said: "Thank you to all of Arron's friends for even thinking of the fund raiser and bike ride.
"Thank you to everyone else for donating, it means so much by just creating awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust."
A 'wake' at the Grove Sports & Social Club will be organised when conditions allow and it is hoped to install a memorial bench on the edge of Morgan's Hill for all to reflect on a young life lost.
100 miles memorial bike ride for Arron King
He died at Bedford Hospital on Tuesday, February 2, after testing positive for Covid-19.
In line with current Covid restrictions his funeral will be attended by eight members of Captain Sir Tom’s immediate family including his daughters and four grandchildren.
See Church Peeps for an update on this story
Church bells across North Somerset will ring out in honour of Captain Sir Tom Moore on Saturday, February 27, to mark his funeral.
Many churches will ring their bells 100 times to mark the life of the 100-year-old who inspired the nation at noon.
And Backwell, Nailsea, Tickenham and Wraxall the bells will be ringing.
The parish church of St Andrew at Backwell, St Quiricus and St Julietta at Tickenham, All Saints parish church at Wraxall and Holy Trinity at Nailsea are all joining in.
A solo bell ringer will be pealing 100 times at the churches.
Paul Balmer on behalf of Nailsea Ringers is pealing at Holy Trinity but said he will have to start slightly after noon as the clock on the belfry tower will be chiming.
And Tickenham it will be retired village stalwart John Banks who organised the annual flower shows who will be ringing the tribute to Captain Sir Tom.
In the village of Marston Moretaine where Captain Tom lived, St Mary’s Church will be joining the commemoration.
His family asked people to follow coronavirus restrictions and stay at home.
Captain Sir Tom captured the hearts of the nation with his fundraising efforts during the first lockdown when he walked 100 laps of his Bedfordshire garden before his 100th birthday, raising more than £32 million for the NHS.
Goodbye Captain Tom
Nailsea said goodbye to Arron King with tears and noisy cheers as the cortège travelled at walking pace down Mizzymead Road.
Former classmates and staff stood on the pavement opposite Nailsea School to clap and cry while older mates were nearer the mini roundabout expressing their grief in loud applause and whistling as the hearse went past.
Greatwood Jenkins vans followed in procession and there were several gulps as the Nike coffin past.
Mum Annettee Jones shared the video of the cortège turning from Mizzymead Road into Stockway South where even more people were waiting to pay their respects.
Utterly heartbreaking.
The cortège left Arron’s home in Portland Close at noon going along Queens Road into Mizzymead Road past Nailsea School and onto Stockway South.
Paying your last respects to the much-loved 19-year-old who died within weeks of being diagnosed with a rare cancer was described as ‘utterly heartbreaking’.
Because of Covid-19 restrictions numbers at the crematorium were strictly limited.
Esther Warbutton posted on Nailsea People Facebook page: “I didn't know Arron but what I saw at midday on Thursday, March 18, was that he was hugely loved and will be so unbelievably missed.
“It was so emotional to see all of his loved ones and friends on Queens Road, I had to stop my car and sit and clap with you all.
“You should all be so proud of yourselves of how brave you were. I couldn't fight back the tears.
“I really pray for you all to find some sort of peace.”
Monies are being raised for Teenage Cancer Trust and a memorial bench hopefully on Morgans Hill.
A 'wake' at the Grove Sports & Social Club will be organised when conditions allow and it is hoped to install a memorial bench on the edge of Morgan's Hill for all to reflect on a young life lost.
The crowdfunding Just Giving page set up by friends with a target of £2,000 has raised more tha £14,000 todate.
To give go to https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/samuel-crocker.
Tributes to Arron
Due to lockdown restrictions the number of mourners attending the midday funeral service at Weston Crematorium was severely limited.
Simon who also played for Nailsea Cricket Club was a Bristol Rovers fan.
This summer it is intended to hold a celebration of his life at the Grove ‘one of the places he loved most and spent his time growing into a fine young man. Another one of our heroes taken far too soon. RIP Si'.
This sporting life match card for Simon while playing for Nailsea United records:
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played 23 seasons 1992-2015
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615 appearances sixth in the all-time list
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191 goals
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first team 155 games 12 goals
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reserves 229 games 69 goals
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A team 151 games 88 goals
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B team 76 goals 21 goals
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Colts 4 games 1 goal
After the funeral service Michele shared with Nailsea People her thoughts. She said: "Today has been a very tough day but I would like to thank everyone who took time to see Si take his final journey from the Grove Sports Centre.
"We were overwhelmed by the many who turned up.
"I would also like to thank those who were able to join us for Si's final farewell and a big thank you to Arthur E Davey & Sons the funeral directors for all their help, support, professionalism and comfort during the past four weeks.
"I hope we have done you proud today Si and how proud I am for Chloe for standing up and reading the beautiful poem.
"We will all miss you so much.
"I have never loved someone like I loved you.
"Always in my thoughts, forever in my heart."
Michele has set up a memorial fund for the British Heart Foundation via her Facebook page.
Nearly 300 people lined the access road to Grove Sports Centre & Social Club on Tuesday morning, March 23, to pay their last respects to Simon Taylor.
The much-loved family man and all-round sportsman who was engaged to partner Michele Sargent died suddenly aged 44 on February 22.
Nailsea United FC posted online ‘We’d like to pay tribute to the incredibly sad and sudden passing of one of our own Si Taylor. Si gave amazing service to the club…life can be unbelievably cruel and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to Si’s family and friends’.
A-team send-off for Simon Taylor
REMEMBERING BAILEE: Nailsea schoolboy Bailee Cook died aged four in April 2018. Since then his loving family and friends have raised thousands of pounds in his name for medical research. Three years on the latest fundraising is for The Lily Foundation, which funds research into Mitochondrial Disease and other metabolic disorders. The full story is on our Breaking News page HERE and the Facebook page is called Bailee’s Charity Fundraiser 2021 - Lily Foundation (due to FB rules it has to be private group so wait to be invited in). To donate go to: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bailee.
BAILEE REMEMBERED: More than £1,000 was raised by this Facebook event. Mum Jemma Capern said: "I would just like to say a massive thank you from myself, Lee, siblings Gracie-Leigh and Darcie to all the truly wonderful people who have either donated their time, money or prizes to raise funds for an amazing charity that is very close to our hearts The Lily Foundation, The money raised in Bailee's memory will help fund research and support other families in their fight against Mitochondrial Disease. Bailee would be so proud of how everyone pulls together in his memory whether it's in raising money or simply the annual wearing blue for him so we would like to thank each and everyone of you but the list is endless. So thank you all for everything you have done or are doing to make sure his memory lives on and helps others. A massive thanks too to fundraising champions Charlie Amos and Andie Hancock for the planning and hard work they put in."
REMEMBERING CHRIS SMITH: Kathy Maroney Turlick said I'd like to remember my Chris in a very special way. Chris passed away one year ago on Saturday, March 27, from the Covid-19 virus. At the time of his death family and friends weren't able to gather to honor this wonderful man. There is a small town at the Jersey shore that started a temporary memorial that family and friends can visit and honour their love ones who lost their life to this terrible virus. The town of Belmar has set up this memorial on 3rd Ave beach, see pictures. Each stone represents a love one, it's a very special tribute to all the beautiful souls that's been taken from us. As you see for Chris's stone, I added the UK colors, a beautiful picture, one of his favorite cigars and yes a shot glass of bourbon. My Chris really enjoyed life to the fullest, what beautiful memories I will always cherish of him, RIP Chris Smith, sending you all my love up there in the heavens. Scroll down to read the original post for Chris who was a well-known, much-loved Nailsea character
REMEMBERING CHARLOTTE: And going purple for global epilepsy awareness day mum Cathy Bradley remembers lovingly nine-year-old Charlotte Fletcher, pictured together top, taken in her sleep after one seizure too many. A young princess never forgotten. Charlotte was a mischievous, awkward, entertaining, funny, loveable girl, even when she had just had a seizure and hurt herself she would be the first to help anyone else that was hurt or upset, said Cathy. Nailsea People posted this on its Facebook page and it reached more than 3,500 which is what it is all about. Awareness of this condition and raising money for research.
REMEMBERING CHRIS: Sadly lots for remembering for Nailsea People. Twenty five years ago on Friday, March 26, former Nailsea School pupil Chris Howes was kidnapped in Cambodia by the Kymer Rouge. He was killed days afterwards, but his Backwell family knew nothing of his fate for more than two years afterwards. Chris was clearing mines for local people and his story is selfless and heroic. He is remembered today by all and especially by his sister Pat and father Roy. Poignantly, this sad anniversary is only a few days away from International Mine Awareness Day on Easter Sunday, April 4. RIP Chris, from schoolfriend Mark Appleby.
Nailsea people who live in The Maples form a close-knit community even after someone moves elsewhere in the town.
Marilyn Ford lived for 39 years at the end of the cul-de-sac in her home looking out on the green but still maintained friendships with her Maples ‘ex-pats’.
The front garden of her home was filled with flowers the day of her funeral.
Marilyn was born in June 1954 in Fulham, London, to parents Joyce and Arthur and had a brother called Phillip.
Her afterschool life in SW10 involved church, ice skating and dancing.
Marilyn was a loving mother to her three children Vikki, Justin and Gemma.
For the past 20 years she worked at Tesco Nailsea where she made many good friends both customers and staff and called her workmates her ‘second family’.
Marilyn was clever, generous, and fun and her children added ‘loving, caring, kind and good natured’.
She adored her grandson Liam and great grandsons Reggie and Jaxon.
The funeral service at Weston Crematorium was conducted by celebrant Paul Maltby and Liam said a few heartfelt words about his nanny.
Justin read the poem A Golden Heart Stops Beating and added his own tribute to his mother.
The funeral cortege drove past the High Street supermarket and staff many in tears lined the road outside.
Vikki said: “Mum had an amazing send off, her final route took her up past Tesco where all the staff and loads of other people were stood outside, literally from the roundabout right up to the end of the pavement and they all clapped as mum went past!
“We then went down past her field so she could see her horse Millie one final time.”
Sadly Marilyn lost her brave long battle against breast cancer and donations in her memory are going to St Peter's Hospice.
MARILYN FORD
JUNE 1954-MARCH 2021 RIP
Message of Condolence
His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
On behalf of the councillors and staff of Nailsea Town Council, as well as the people of Nailsea, we wish to share the sentiments of loss and sorrow felt across the Nation in mourning the death of His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh.
Our thoughts are with Her Majesty the Queen and her family at this sad time.
The town is now in a period of mourning which will conclude on Saturday, April 17.
The Union flag is flying at half-mast until the day after His Royal Highness’ funeral.
Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions the town council will not be opening a Book of Condolence or inviting the public to lay flowers and memorial items at the Tithe Barn.
If you would like to sign the Royal Book of Condolence this can be done via the Royal website https://www.royal.uk/condolence.
Issued by Nailsea Town Council chairman Jan Barber
and town clerk Jo Duffy
North Somerset Council chairman David Shopland is the Independent councillor for Clevedon East.
He said: "On behalf of North Somerset Council I would like to express our profound sadness on hearing the news of the passing of His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.
"As a mark of respect, the Union flag will be flown at half-mast at both the Town Hall in Weston-super-Mare and our Castlewood offices in Clevedon throughout the period of national mourning.
"Residents who wish to pay their respects should use the online book of condolence organised by Buckingham Palace which will be available on the Royal Family website."
HM the Queen and Prince Philip toured North Somerset in August 2007.
Mr Shopland hosted a formal lunch for the royal couple with invited guests at Weston.
Nailsea People editor Carol Deacon said: "We all remember fondly that as the royal couple left the Winter Gardens, Weston, Prince Philip double-backed on the stairs and with a mischievous smile gave us a big wave."
Many churches will be tolling the tenor bell half muffled at noon to mark the death of HRH Prince Philip.
St Andrew’s at Backwell will be doing this.
A church spokesman said: "It is a great sadness to hear of the death of HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh.
"The Churches of St Andrew’s and St Bridget’s join many others from across the UK and the Commonwealth in giving thanks for his life of exemplary service to HM The Queen and our country.
"St Andrew’s Church will be kept open for prayer and reflection.
"A book of condolences will be available for visitors to sign. Any messages recorded will be sent to the Palace after the Duke’s funeral.
"If anyone is unable or uncomfortable coming into church, there is an online book of condolences available https://www.churchofengland.org/media-and-news/news-releases/condolence-book-hrh-prince-philip-duke-edinburgh-opens-online."
Christ Church Nailsea pries-in-charge Jules Harris said: "Following the death of HRH Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip on Friday, April 9, people are more than welcome to lay flowers at the West Door to pay their respects."
The church also tolled its bell 99 times at midday.
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The ceremonial royal funeral will be held at St George's Chapel, in the grounds of Windsor Castle, at 3pm on Saturday, April 17. The event will be televised.
HRH PRINCE PHILIP DIES AGED 99
RATTIE RESURRECTED:Two years ago, in November 2019, Nailsea People reported on its BMD page (scroll down to find) a mine-sweeping rat had been named after local hero Chris Howes who was murdered by the Khmer Rouge back in 1996. Other media including the BBC also carried the story. The lifespan of a giant African pouch rat can be up to nine years but for a small rodent on active duty clearing mines we would guess it is considerable shorter? So, is the Howes featured on the front page of the North Somerset Times free newspaper this week a relative of our rat – other details seem the same?
Nailsea character Phil Williams the inspiration behind the skatepark at Millennium Park celebrated his 60th party with a week of celebrations including a night at The Wave, a surfing centre in Bristol.
The Christian Surfers director who seography at Plymouth Polytechnic was60 on Thursday, July 22.
Phil said: “A huge thank you message to anyone that has played a part in making my 60th birthday so far absolutely perfect — very special shout outs obviously to my family, Annie Williams amazing, Joseph Williams Abi Williams, you two are so, so special , Bryn Dixon & Daisy Byrne an absolute pleasure and a joy to have you both in our lifes.
“To God for being there for me in a good and the more challenging times for protection and a message of hope love and faith for the future.
“And of course Nick Hounsfield and the amazing The Wave team who I have grown to be part of my extended family.
“Last night … oh my word, 30 years of history all coming together every one of you that made it thank you and I know for those that couldn’t for a whole host of reasons just hearing from you was amazing.”
Phil on a wave for birthday
Forget those tv ads for direct funerals costing thousands of pounds.
Hampshire based Pure Cremations sent out a mailshot in Nailsea this month offering a bargain basement rate of £1,595.
But this is matched by local companies.
For a little over £1K Arthur E Davey & Sons can organise an unattended cremation.
This is for those who want a minimum of fuss without any formal celebration of life service at that time.
Most important if you want your nearest and dearest to spend the money on a marvellous wake instead.
Contact the Silver Street office for more details 01275 852307.
Conventional funerals can of course be organised with pre-paid plans available too.
A new Community Peer Support Group for people who have experienced loss is looking for volunteers to join their team.
The STAR (Share Talk and Remember) Community Peer Support Group is in the process of being set up and hopes to support people from Nailsea, Backwell and surrounding villages.
Gill and Pam who are passionate about supporting people through grief are looking for a caring, empathetic person who has a few hours to spare once or twice a month.
Many people go through some incredibly difficult times following loss.
This loss may be any traumatic event in their life including death of a loved one. Being unable to express feelings and to talk about this difficult subject for whatever reason, can result in some people feeling isolated and lonely especially if they do not have contact with close friends and family.
The support group will play a huge part in supporting people in our community.
Do you think this is something you could spare some time for?
Gill and Pam are hoping to attract volunteers of all ages and backgrounds, so if this resonates with you and you enjoy being part of a team, then please contact:
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Gill Atkinson, who is an independent funeral celebrant and musician on 0772 229 8550 or email gilly493@hotmail.com
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Pam Lambert, a retired doctor on 0797 790 5604 or email pamlambert187@gmail.com.
Direct cremations
New support group for bereaved
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According to the Financial Times the UK funeral director Dignity sank to a loss last year even though the coronavirus pandemic caused a sharp rise in the death toll in the country. The company fell to a loss before tax of £19.6m in the 12 months to December 25, compared with a profit of £44.1m in 2019, despite the pandemic causing a 14 per cent rise year on year in the number of UK deaths. While revenue increased 4 per cent to £314.1m, higher personal protective equipment costs and government limits on how many people can attend funerals had contributed to weaker performance, Dignity said. Dignity has not paid a dividend since 2019 and does not expect to do so until it has returned to a ‘sustainable and stable financial footing’.
GARDEN VIEW: Photos top are the beautifully tended gardens which Nailsea Town Council looks after on behalf of Dignity with the family plot costing nearly £4,000 and below the neighbouring overgrown land which appears to be a former orchard and is to become an extension of the Garden of Rest once planning permission is obtained from North Somerset Council
Nailsea's garden of unrest
With churchyards full and only a handful of spaces left in the garden of rest finding a final resting place for loved ones in Nailsea has become critical.
The graveyards at Holy Trinity and Christ Church have been full for decades and finding a new burial ground in the town has proved impossible.
Nailsea Town Council has been searching for a site for a new cemetery site in the town for nearly 30 years but has been unable to find anywhere suitable.
Unless people have already purchased a plot, they cannot be buried anywhere in the town.
And with the Garden of Rest at Stockway North fast reaching capacity this summer Nailsea Town Council has urgently been looking for a solution.
The town council is responsible for the upkeep of the gardens which is managed by the Crematorium and Memorial Group, part of Dignity Plc, under its contract with North Somerset Council.
CMG corporate communications manager Stuart Cox said: “There are five plots left in the current Garden of Rest.
“We have started the planning process on Thursday, July 22, but are waiting to hear from North Somerset Council if it requires a fee for it to proceed or if this can be forwarded during the process.”
And CMG director Steve Gant confirmed.
He said: “A small number of plots remain at the existing Gardens of Rest and these can be provided without impacting the current layout.
“Additional land has already been earmarked as an extension to the Garden of Rest.
“After consulting North Somerset Council planning department and our advisors, we are required to submit a planning application and this process has now begun.”
Plots of various sizes with starting prices from £1,499 in the extension to the Garden of Rest will be sold in perpetuity rather than being leased, added Mr Cox.
A letter from recently widowed Valerie Smith is due to be discussed at a full town council meeting on Wednesday evening, July 28, at the Tithe Barn.
You many download a copy of the agenda HERE.
In the letter Mrs Smith outlines the issues she had securing a plot at a cost of £2,500 in the Garden of Rest and she was concerned with all the new houses being built in the town others may encounter similar problems.
Mrs Smith said: “Personally I would rather the Garden of Rest was managed by Nailsea Town Council…and not some unknown face from Weston-super-Mare crematorium who handle the enquires.”
Nicola Davey, of Arthur E Davey & Sons, confirmed that Nailsea funeral directors can no longer process Garden of Rest plots for the Weston-based company.
She said: “It is ridiculous and we were told one bereaved person being charged £3,500 for a plot.”
Collette Ramada said when her mum Christine Lyons died, in June last year, she bought one of the remaining larger plots at a cost of £3,500 plus a compulsory £400 in addition for a small plaque.
She said: “The service I got from the staff at Weston crematorium was so bad I posted a damming review for them on Trustpilot.
“They never answered the phone, failed to turn up for appointments and all-in-all it was very stressful.”
She gave them one star and wrote online: “Losing a loved one is hard enough without having to deal with this very uncompassionate, slow, over-priced and inadequate service to bury the ashes.
“If you are considering using this service be prepared for a minimal amount of information and…extra charges which were not previously discussed.”
Several months on and her father, who did not wish to be named, is still upset.
He posted: “Throughout the entire process their only interest has been in gleaning as much money as they can with no regard whatever to serving a bereaved family.”
It was decided by North Somerset Council that from April 1, 2010, crematoriums and cemeteries in the district would be run by for the next 30 years by Dignity Funeral Services Ltd.
Dignity was to maintain 21 closed churchyards as part of the contract.
Thisenabled the council to release nearly £1m which it had set aside for repairs to bring crematoriums up to environmental standards.
The company took over the responsibility for the maintenance of 21 closed churchyards and the running of the cremation and cemetery service in Ebdon Road, Weston-super-Mare, and management of cemeteries in Portishead, Clevedon and a garden of rest in Nailsea.
Granddaughter gives couples present of old wedding photos
who did my wedding photos October 23, 1999, and my parents wedding October 24, 1964.
She told Lianne: “I had the privilege of caring for your granddad in hospital and we loved chatting and showing him photos about ‘old Nailsea’.
The two generations are Caroline Hendry to Chris Newbury and Robin Hendry to Pamela Mumford.
Lianne said nearly 100 couples have come forward so far.
UPDATE: On Friday, July 30, Lianne announced she had found thousands of negatives. She said: "I’ve managed to locate about 15 today out of over 130 requests. Long way to go, seems the older photos are much harder to find! I will be contacting you if I can locate yours. I will also be setting up a GoFundMe page for anyone who wishes to donate to the Alzheimer's Society as I have had a few people ask me which charity to donate too! If you have only given me the year you were married please message me the exact date as I cannot search just on the year! Many thanks.
UPDATE: Monday, August 2. Lianna added: "My granddad, Keith Flower, was so well known and loved by many in Nailsea. He had gained so many friends through his photography career and met so many through his local shop. Granddad had suffered from Alzheimer’s for several years before he sadly passed away in June. People have requested a nominated charity to donate to, either as thank you for trying to find their wedding negatives which I am currently working through, or to pay respect for my Granddad so If anyone wishes fo donate to this chosen charity we would be grateful as this charity means a lot to our family."
Alzheimer's Society commits itself to maintaining, improving and promoting its unique knowledge and understanding of dementia. It seeks to define and develop quality in its activities and services, to be inclusive of all communities but in particular people with dementia, their families and the professionals who work with them and to work in partnership with other organisations which share its aims. Click logo to go to GoFundMe page.
The granddaughter of Nailsea photographer Keith Flower has bequeathed his extensive archives to the brides and bridegrooms of yesteryear.
After the funeral on Friday, July 23, Lianne Smith posted on her Facebook page: "It was emotional day saying goodbye to such a huge part of my life, my wonderful granddad.
"Alzheimer was such a battle for him the past few years and I am glad he is now at peace.”
Keith used to have a shop where Kebab Kitchen is at Crown Glass Shopping Centre and for his final journey the cortege went along Nailsea High Street.
Lianne shared this on Facebook: "As a lot of you know my granddad was a well-known photographer in Nailsea and took thousands of weddings over the years.
"We have loads of photo negatives and if he took your wedding and you would be interested in having them - if we can locate them - you are welcome to them.
"We would need the date and your name as most seem to be stored in order.
"Feel free to share this as some of these may be quite meaningful to people."
Dating back to the 1950s and covering nearly every church in North Somerset and beyond there are also shots from Weston-super-Mare registry office.
Keith has left an attic full of black and white and coloured negatives which Lianne says will take months to sort.
One of the first brides to respond on the Nailsea People Facebook page was Debra Britton.
She posted: "Sorry to hear this.
"He took my wedding photos Ist of July 1978 at St Edyths church, Sea Mills.
"I had a house fire about 20 years ago and my copies were burned.
"If you have the negatives that would be great."
Within 12 hours the page reached more than 4,000 people many sharing kind words about Keith while asking about long-lost negatives.
Kim Lazenby said: "He was an absolute gentleman.
"He took our wedding photos on the June 30, 1979, the negatives may be filed under my maiden name Kim Roberts."
Marlene Hawkings said: “So sorry to hear about the funeral.
“Keith took our wedding photos on December 4, 1976.”
Then Sue Ashman added her wedding was at St Andrew’s Backwell on July 31, 1993 and Jenny Staley said her wedding was on the February 28, 1976 at Winford Church.
Cherry Grimsted said: “Oh I’m so very sorry for the loss of your granddad he was a lovely man.
“He took our wedding photos on March 20, 1976 at All Saints Church Long Ashton.”
Ben Daniels praised Keith’s smile and jokes adding he helped get him through his GCSE and A-level art.
Lorna Lock lost her wedding photos from Clevedon Baptist church on March 29, 1975, in a house move and asked for help locating the originals.
Peter Cooke and Susan Batt were married on May 5,1973 at Yatton Church.
Helen Ellison said: “He took our wedding photos at Holy Trinity Nailsea on September 4, 1993.
“He had a large photo of us framed and put in the window of the shop, it was a hell of a shock when we came back from our honeymoon!”
Rita Washer and Stephen Higgins would like the negatives from June 6, 1987 at St Aldhelms Church, Bedminster.
Jane Kington said: “Granddad and granddaughter is such a special relationship.
“Sorry to hear your sad news.
“I was only looking through our wedding photos last year.
“How lovely that you are offering to let us have the negatives.
“That is so very much appreciated.
“Our wedding day was August 9, 1986 at St Bartholomew's church, Failand.”
Caroline Newbury, a nurse, said: “So sad to hear this, he was a lovely man
HAPPY MEMORIES: Wedding photos from as far back as the 1950s bequeathed to couples by Lianne Smith
A beautiful bride from Nailsea got married on Wednesday, August 11, only weeks after the planned date which was postponed due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Natasha ‘Tash’ Rochford, aged 24, and groom Phillip Paul, 30, chose the lovely Elmhay Park, a 500-acre country estate near Bath, as the venue.
Originally the couple should have been married in June but with lockdown lifting it allowed them to invite 80 family and friends to the nuptials in the Italian gardens.
However, the honeymoon in Greece has had to be put off until 2022 because of uncertainty about travelling.
Hairdresser Tash enlisted the help of best friend and former classmate at Nailsea School Abbie Lilley, who works as a stylist at Mane in Backwell, to help on the day with the coiffure.
Wearing a designer ivory satin ballgown Tash topped her outfit with a sparkly diamante tiara and full-length veil.
The six bridesmaids - Daisy Orme, Corrine Paul, Jessica Ralph, Ariane Rickard, Francesca Rochford and Gabriella Rochford – all wore long blush pink dresses with draped cowl necks.
And flower girl Ava Rochford wore a white knee length dress decorated with a single pink rose.
The girls colour theme of ivory, soft pink and rose gold was complimented by the boys in royal blue day suits with pink ties, breast pocket
handkerchiefs and a rosebud buttonhole.
Phillip, a warehouse operative, and Tash met online but said it was ‘love at first sight’ on the first real life date.
Carpenter Chris Hammond did the honours as best man.
The couple have set up home at Evercreech in Somerset.
My big beautiful wedding
The funeral of much-loved Toby Riley the young Nailsea man who sadly died this summer has been arranged for Tuesday, August 31.
His parents Suzy and Al have shared the details of Remembering Toby with Nailsea People.
They said: “Family and friends will be celebrating the life of Toby on Tuesday, August 31. Toby will be arriving at Grove Sports Club, Nailsea at 2pm and you are invited to come to the field to say goodbye.
"At 2.15pm, Toby will be driven down Whiteoak Way, along Mizzymead Road, past the entrance to the skate park and out of Nailsea.
"Please wear something you are comfortable in - Toby lived in PE kit so please do not feel you need to wear a shirt and tie!
"The ceremony will be privately attended due to limited capacity but we will return to Nailsea and would like you to join us at the Ring O’Bells pub from 5pm onwards.
"There will be a photo board in the pub and you are very welcome to bring a favourite photo to add to the display for us to keep.
"Toby’s family would like to thank the whole community for the overwhelming support, the kind messages, food parcels and flowers. It is clear how much love there is for Toby.
"He will forever be in our hearts.”
Remembering Toby
AT THE END OF THE DAY: Toby’s mum Suzy said: “It was such a beautiful service and the tributes from the community have been amazing.”
They lined the roads and filled the car park talking among themselves about the best and worst of times as they remembered teenager Toby Riley.
Then; a hush fell over all the people waiting as the hearse slowly inched its way up the long narrow drive to the Grove Sports Centre & Social Club in Nailsea.
You could hear a pin drop.
Then; the ripple of clapping in the distance got louder as the silver limousine approached the front of the building.
A floral red wreath and another floral blue wreath in the shape of a No18 football shirt were visible in the back of the vehicle, either side of the coffin.
With the hatch open mourners were invited to come and say a final farewell to Toby, a much-loved family member, friend or both.
Then; after several minutes the cortege made its way back towards Whiteoak Way and into the town centre.
Seeing tearful young men and women was a moving experience, many as requested by the family wearing their sport kits and sobbing openly.
Nailsea United first team were yet again called upon to form a guard of honour and they stood straight and silent to remember a fallen player as the hearse passed.
This sadly is a duty they have had to perform many, many times in past years.
Out on the road a lorry respectively pulled in and the bus stopped to let the cortege pass.
This afternoon, Tuesday, August 31, we said goodbye.
This evening from 5pm a wake, with shared memories and the comfort of company, everyone will meet again at The Ringers.
Goodbye to Tobes
Toby, aged 18 died on July 4, 2021.
The sports mad youngster who was a keen skate park supporter, player, coach had in his short life been a member of Nailsea Junior Football Club, Nailsea United FC, Priority Football and the Senshinryu Karate Association.
A Go Funding page launched by friend Kieran Gray has raised £19,029.
Mum Suzy Riley said: “As we celebrate Toby’s life today I would like to thank each and every one of you for your generosity.
“You have donated so much money to honour Toby and he would be blown away.
“The money left after the funeral costs will be used for something exciting for the children of Nailsea in Toby’s memory.
“More news about that will be shared soon.”
People can still donate by clicking the image.
And for those struggling with mental health issues the Mind logo will also take you to a helpline.
"That’s 20 minutes which could help you save someone’s life in the future. I’d really encourage everyone to do it.”
To do the training go to www.zerosuicidealliance.com/training.
For more information about free mental health training courses in North Somerset go to http://ns-pmhtraining.eventbrite.com/
People across North Somerset are being encouraged to complete free suicide prevention training to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day on Friday, September 10.
Earlier this year North Somerset Council joined the Zero Suicide Alliance, a collaboration of National Health Service trusts, charities, businesses and individuals who are all committed to suicide prevention.
The Zero Suicide Alliance offers free online training, which only takes around 20 minutes to complete and can be done at any time on a phone, tablet or computer.
The training aims to help people have conversations with friends and family about suicide and supports them to help others who may be having suicidal thoughts, directing them to sources of support.
North Somerset Council along with partners across the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire region are calling for 10,000 people to complete this free suicide prevention training.
North Somerset Council deputy leader and executive member with responsibility for health Mike Bell is the Lib Dem ward councillor for Weston Centre.
He said: “We need to break the stigma attached to talking about suicide so we can have open and honest conversation with our loved ones.
“Suicide is a tragedy. It’s also preventable. And we can all do something to potentially help save a life.
"This free training from the Zero Suicide Alliance will help you identify when someone’s presenting with suicidal thoughts or behaviour, be able to speak to them in a supportive way and signpost them to the correct services or support.
“The training is free and only takes about 20 minutes to do.
It's okay, ask for help
IN MEMORIAM: Donations in Ian’s memory for the RSPCA, Brent Knoll, via Nailsea Baptist Church, 79 Silver Street, Nailsea, BS48 2DS
MYCON youth leader, Ian Parkinson, passed away in April this year.
At the time the family could not give him the funeral they would have liked and have now arranged a service of celebration for Ian’s life.
This is at Nailsea Baptist Church on Wednesday, October 13, at 11am.
Ian was youth leader/manager of MYCON from 1982-1998.
Whilst there he worked hard to improve the image of the club and its reputation in the community of Nailsea and beyond.
One of his main achievements was to start a gymnastics group for pre-school aged children which proved so successful that it quickly grew and over the years provided classes for children of all ages.
The group is still going today under the name of Gemini Gymnastics and is just as popular, if not more so.
Ian was born in Manchester and grew up in Chadderton [Oldham] where he attended school and worked for British Railways based at their Newton Heath depot for many years before the introduction of diesel engines.
In 1966 he went to theological college in Derbyshire, where he met his future wife Jeanne a year later.
The couple were married in September 1968 and moved to Carlisle for Ian to take up a position with the Methodist church.
In 1970 they moved to Glasgow for Ian to attend Jordanhill College studying Youth and Community work.
After he graduated in 1972 they moved to Airdrie, near Glasgow and Ian took up the position as manager of the newly built Airdrie YMCA/YWCA.
This was a very challenging position as the area around the ‘Y’ was well known for its’ gangs – there were five – but he relished working with them and the gangs disbanded.
In 1997 they moved down to a village near Salisbury to work in his father-in-law’s haulage business, where he remained for five years.
The couple had two sons.
Gordon was born in Airdrie and now lives in Glasgow with his wife and four young children.
Sinclair was born in Salisbury and is now working in Spain.
In 1982 they moved to Nailsea for Ian to become youth leader at MYCON.
Ian Parkinson
June 19, 1944-April 20, 2021
Richard Hendricks said: "RIP Cyril one of life’s great characters and a great bloke to boot! Absolutely gutted loads of love from the Hendricks family.
Pamela Burt said: "What a local character Cyril was.
"Rest in peace Cyril, I’ll always remember you commentating on my husband and his friend’s snooker games at the Grove Sports Centre years ago."
Laura Woodey said: "Oh no, I used to see him at the top of my road in Shaftesbury. RIP Cyril have a drink with John up there."
Russell Filby said: "Certainly one of Nailsea’s characters!
"A work colleague of my father’s from his time at Farleigh Hospital and always took time to ask after dad in the years since when ever we met, sad to read of his passing.
"Nice one Cyril , you’ll be missed by many."
Michael John Kelly said: "Farewell, my friend.
"Always close at hand with help or advice, when I managed Backwell, and we later shared many a half-time cigarette at the memorial ground.
"Loved you buddy."
Justine Desmond said: "RIP Cyril.
"You were part of our little family for a while going to miss you loads.
"Such a lovely man.
"We all will,fly high Cyril, we love you."
Michaela Fowler said: "Rest in peace Cyril , I will miss you and are chats at Wetherspoons and picking you up at the bus stop!
"There will be a pint in a mug waiting for you up there!"
Shaun Fitzpatrick said: "Always good for a yarn and a pint.
"Many a bus trip chatting about football as he went off to meet relatives and me to visit dad in hospital.
"His voice will live long in my memory!"
Yvette Trevelyan-Regan said: "RIP Cyril. Great man always grateful for a lift. Thoughts with his family."
When Nailsea People shared the news that one of Nailsea’s biggest characters had died on Facebook we didn't expect it to reach more than 5,000 people and attract 66 messages of condolence.
The last time we spoke at length to Cyril Sutor, then aged 80, was in December 2020.
He was taking part in a vox pop about Covid-19 for the Bristol Post.
He told reporter Heather Pickstock: “We should go down to tier one now the numbers of cases are so low.
“Tier three hasn’t affected me much as I stay in a lot of the time.
“But these restrictions aren’t helping businesses and there are already a number of shops which have closed down.
“To have such a high tier level is crazy.”
It was more usual to see Cyril at the bus stop, on the bus or at the Royal Oak when he would always exchange in lively conversation.
He died on Friday, October 8, and our condolences go to his family, football fraternity and many friends.
UPDATE: Jean Gillman has told us that Cyril tragically fell over a wall and broke his back. His funeral is at 3.45pm on Friday, November 12, at Bristol cemetery on A38. This is the South Bristol Cemetery & Crematorium on Bridgwater Road, Bedminster Down, Bristol BS13 7AS. No flowers but donations in memory to St Peter's Hospice who were wonderful carers for his wife Marie in her final days Mourners are requested to wear red - Bristol City FC colours - or black..
Here we reprint some of the messages from the Nailsea People Facebook page chosen at random.
Sarfaraz Khan said:"So sad was really lovely man, God bless him."
Publican Craig Mamo said: "RIP Cyril, such a character! The Royal Oak will miss you."
Sharon Ladwa said: "So sorry to hear this.
"Cyril was a wonderful character and always stopped for a chat .
"I first met Cyril and his late wife Marie many many years ago as customers where I work.
"Both were lovely people that we enjoyed having in the shop.
"Now reunited."
Stu-Bert Groves said: "Best wishes to all his family and friends.
"Was always such a lovely jovial bloke, enjoyed many a good laugh with him when he would pop into the Co op while I was working there."
Kate Francomb said: "So sad to read this he was such a lovely friendly man."
Cherry Grimsted said: "Rest in Peace Cyril, I remember him from when we both lived in Long Ashton, he was a lovely man."
Lauren Higgins said: "RIP Cyril. You will be missed by so many! Probably one of the most well known people in Nailsea."
J
ulie Louise Harwood said: "RIP/ Cyril Sutor rejoined with beloved wife Marie. A true gent. Condolences to the family."
Helen Sainsbury said: "Rest in peace Cyril, we used to work together at Farleigh Hospital . Such a lovely friendly man."
Charlie Amos said: "RIP Cyril lovely man ! Thoughts are with your family at this sad time."
Amanda Daphs Ward said: "So sad Cyril has gone I remember being very drunk after a night in the friendship and waiting for a bus to Hannah More Road and him insisting on waiting with me until I was safely on the bus and him telling a very bemused bus driver to make sure I got off.""
Cyril Sutor
December 1940-October 2021
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LIGHT MY WAY: A Candles Of Remembrance service is at Nailsea Methodist Church, Silver Street, on Sunday afternoon, October 31, at 4pm. This quiet time of worship invites people who have been bereaved to reflect on the person who has died; to give thanks and to light a candle in their memory
A peer support group called STAR is starting in Nailsea.
It wants to ’provides free support for people grieving from a bereavement or difficult transition in their life’.
The aim of the support group is to create a safe space for people to receive support, listen to and share stories and experiences with others who have experienced loss in their life.
The group is facilitated by peer supporters; volunteers who have themselves been through a loss.
Groups are held 65 High Street on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month, 4-6pm, and the second and fourth Saturday of every month, 10am-noon.
For more information or to find out how to join the group, please phone, text or email:
Pam Lambert on 0797 790 5604 or pamlambert187@gmail.com
Gill Atkinson on 0772 2 9 8550 or gilly493@hotmail.com.
Hope and help group
Nailsea In Bloom, the voluntary gardeners responsible for the beautiful flower beds and planters throughout the town, is setting up a Poppy Appeal to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.
It is asking residents to sponsor a large poppy to be placed in one of four beds which Nailsea in Bloom look after.
Pictured are the beds from previous years.
Residents sponsoring a poppy will be able to have up to four names written on each wooden stalk and there is a minimum £5 donation per poppy.
The forms can be left in boxes – attached - at the Tithe Barn with donation in envelope.
Forms are also available at 65 High Street or you can download HERE and print out.
The poppies will be placed in beds from Monday, October 25, until after Remembrance Day, which is Thursday, November 11.
Remembrance Sunday is on November 14 in 2021 and is a national opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life.
We remember the Armed Forces, and their families, from Britain and the Commonwealth, the vital role played by the emergency services and those that have lost their lives because of conflict or terrorism.
Closer to home we remember in our poppies those dear to us be it family or friends who are no longer with us.
This year the volunteer gardeners planted 1,930 colourful begonias, petunias, geraniums, osteospermum, nemsia and coleus.
It is still looking for individuals and businesses to sponsor the big flower tubs from as little as £37 - watch this space...
Any questions email Wendy Mobbs on Wendy.mobbs@outlook.com.
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We are told that on Thursday, November 11, at 11am RBL veterans will be assembling in Somerset Square for Remembrance Day. Here is anupdate about the arrangements at Holy Trinity on Sunday, November 14 at 10.30am. This is a national opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life. We remember the Armed Forces, and their families, from Britain and the Commonwealth, the vital role played by the emergency services and those that have lost their lives as a result of conflict or terrorism. We will be starting our remembrance outside by the war memorial, where there will be laying of wreaths and the roll call, then we will go into church for our Remembrance Sunday service. However, there is limited seating so you will need to book if you would like to come in person and you can do that HERE. We will also be live streaming on YouTube and you can watch that from 10.30am HERE. Please note you will need to wear masks in church and we will be ventilating the building, so please dress appropriately.
Nailsea poppies for remembering
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE: All involved with Nailsea and Backwell RFC community based at the West End ground are invited to join veterans and serving members from our armed and uniformed services in an Act of Remembrance at West End Lane BS48 4BY. Gathering from 10.45am on Sunday, November 14, they will be joining the National Service of Remembrance, and with all similar acts across the UK and beyond, in observing the two minutes silence at 11am. Spokesman Will Hellier said: "We would be honoured if any veterans or serving personnel attending were to be present on the club balcony. Please wear any respective medals, headwear or acccoutrements as per your own wishes and/or dress Regulations."
In the office entrance to Arthur E Davey & Sons Ltd, 82 Silver Street, Nailsea, stands this memorial Christmas tree with name tags remembering loved ones who have passed this year.
Donations for 2021 are going to Blesma, The Limbless Veterans.
This is a British charity that helps all serving and ex-Service men and women who have lost limbs, or lost the use of limbs or eyes, to rebuild their lives by providing rehabilitation activities and welfare support.
It operates throughout the United Kingdom and is a registered charity.
The QR Code for Christmas Tree memorial 2021 donations is below.
AE Davey & Sons is the foremost choice for people in Nailsea and the surrounding areas, from Bristol to Clevedon and Portishead to Yatton, seeking a highly professional level of compassionate support and service from a funeral director.
Find out more about AE Davey and Sons Funeral Directors, feel free to browse its website here https://aedavey.co.uk/ or go to the contact page to get in touch.
There is also a section about the memorial Christmas tree.
DRIVER DAN: Thanks to James Parsons (no relation) for finding this interesting headstone at All Saint's Church, Wraxall, of local born man who passed his driving test aged 92 and lived until he was 105