Use your vote – it’s so important
The local council election of Longwell Green South Glos had just over 33 per cent turnout. Nearly 67 per cent didn’t vote. It’s appalling that we have the opportunity for a democratic vote and it’s wasted. The country is in a dire mess and most people don’t get out there and vote. It’s more important than ever that people get a better understanding of what the parties offer and decide who they can trust with our future. We don’t want to be let down time and again with lies and misinformation. The last 16 years of disappointment after disappointment should be a lesson to us all.
M Durbin
Call for action on polluted river
We’re in east Bristol, Kingswood. The water is so clearly polluted, it’s murky, brown and looks horrible. Having lived abroad several times I know that it does not have to be this way.
We go down to Conham river or Saltford several times a week with our dog. We’ve been swimming most days in the heatwave as we live in a one bed flat that is absolutely sweltering. River swimming has kept us cool and sane but the water looks disgusting. We’ve heard of several people getting extremely ill and been warned not to swim, but honestly what choice do we have when it’s 37c other than showering every half hour? It should be a basic human right to be able to use our rivers and not fear of being poisoned and sick as a dog for days.
There has to be another way of disposing of sewage. The fact that citizens will have their water bills increased again in under a week, so that water companies can finally start disposing of waste properly is absurd. Why are we being charged for something we have had no say in? Wessex Water profits were almost £12million last year, yet were struggle to keep up with payments as everything gets more expensive and wages stay the same. Something needs to change.
A Cooper
Nominate a pet for an award
BRISTOL Animal Rescue Centre has officially launched its first-ever Bristol Pet Awards, honouring the region’s most beloved companion animals and the extraordinary bonds they share with their humans.
We are calling on the public to submit nominations and help shine a spotlight on Bristol’s furry, feathered, or scaly heroes.
The five categories celebrating both incredible animals and the humans who stand up for them are: Bristol’s Pet of the Year for an all-around exceptional pet; Bristol’s Animal Hero for a remarkable person supporting animals; Remarkable Rescue Journey, for a rescue animal that has transitioned into a thriving, happy new life; the Unbreakable Bond Award for a deep, meaningful connection between a pet and their human companion; the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by ELM Legal Services, recognising a service animal or one that has had a profound impact on people.
We are also aiming to raise £15,000 directly towards supporting our vital rescue work.
Submitting a nomination is quick, easy, and completely free at tinyurl.com/mryefk6e.
Nominations close on September 1 at midnight.
Sally Hearn-Smith, Bristol ARC
Nature can help grieving process
St Peter’s Hospice has introduced a new nature‑based grief support programme.
The Nature of Grief drop‑in groups will be held at the Penny Brohn Centre, Pill, offering free sessions for adults who have lost a loved one to an incurable illness.
There will be a session on 25 August and one further date in Sept (TBC), where senior psychological therapist Pippa Ford will lead the group with support from qualified nature-based practitioners. For more information visit stpetershospice.org/NatureTherapies