Events and What's On
New and updated events from September 2024
From https://avongorge.org.uk/ Avon Gorge and Wildlife Project Little kids on the Downs – pre-school weekly nature club Wednesday 18th August – Wednesday 23rd October 10.00am – 11.45am (6 sessions), £39.00 (£6.50 per session) Our weekly pre-school child + adult nature club is a joyful mix of discovering the natural world through seasonal activities and getting closer to nature and your child, in the mature woodland and wildflower meadow of the Downs. Share the experience with like-minded families who value experiencing our uplifting nature with their child. Each week we follow an immersive seasonal theme in our activities, enjoy a craft or creativity spot and finish with a warm drink and biscuit for everyone as we listen to a story. Our themes this early autumn term include: ‘Discovering creatures of the Downs’; ‘Autumn colours’; ‘Seeds and berries’; ‘Gruffalo’; ‘Autumn trees’. Suitable for children age 2-4 years with their adult. Younger children are welcome for free but your pre-schooler will need you to enjoy the session with them, engaging in the activities alongside them. We aim to stay outside for all of our session but in case of very inclement weather, a safe indoor and outdoor space is available. Toilets are available at the end of our sessions. Your tutor is a very experienced environmental educator who is DBS checked and first aid trained. -------------- Whitebeam wonders – discovery workshop Saturday 21st September 10.00am-2.30pm Cost: £25.00 Why are the whitebeams in the Avon Gorge a wonder? Just what is it about Bristol’s amazing Avon Gorge that gives us 5 species of whitebeam tree which grow here and nowhere else in the world!? Discover the answers in the Botanical Gardens with curator Nick Wray, and then pop over to the Downs’ Gully to delve deeper with rare species expert, Libby Houston. Here we’ll wonder at wild specimens and investigate the variations. Suitable for adults. At the University of Bristol Botanical Gardens and in the Gully, Avon Gorge. Please note there may be some steep slopes out in the field and good grip footwear is essential, and a walking pole may be useful. --------------- Owl Prowl – discovery workshop and walk Friday 4th October 6.00pm – 8.30pm Cost: £20.00 (1 adult/1 child) It’s the time of year to get involved in our annual Owl Prowl with Ed Drewitt, well-known naturalist and author! Expect some surprises as we dissect an owl pellet to find out what our barn owls have been eating for dinner and discover all about our extraordinary British owls. Then we’ll be off up to the Downs exploring, for an unforgettable owl prowl adventure as dusk falls. Family fun. At the Conservation Education Centre and on the Downs. Suitable for 1 child accompanied by 1 adult (aged over 18). Suitable for children aged 5 to 12. Not suitable for under 5. -------------- Saints, sinners and false diamonds! – discovery storywalk Sunday 20th October 10.15am-12.00pm Cost: £10.00 Another chance to discover our brilliant, imaginative story-walk created uniquely for us and performed by well-known writer and story-walker Clare Reddaway. Clare brings to life the Downs’ past - full of highwaymen, colliers and loo ladies; legionnaires, suffragettes and Cavaliers; gibbets, turnpikes and flying machines: all of which have played their extraordinary part in the fascinating and hidden history of Bristol's 'jewel in the crown' - the Downs. Join us for a stroll through the past as Clare weaves stories from the rocks and meadows beneath your feet, and see the Downs through a lens you've never discovered before! On the Downs. Suitable for adults _____________________________________________________________ Last chance, for the time being, to give the Downs a bit of a clear up.
Final scrub clearance at Peregrine Watch this Sunday, 21st 9.30 - 11.00 All tools provided. Thanks so much, Robin: [email protected] _____________________________________________________________ The next scrub clearance is Sunday 30th June at 09.30 meet at peregrine watch on Circular Road. Register with Robin as usual: [email protected]
_____________________________________________________________ More scrub clearance - another date for your diary:
Next one Sunday 23rd 09.30 register with Robin: [email protected] _____________________________________________________________ Want to get involved with some scrub clearance?
Why not join the next working party Sunday 16th June at 09.30. Please sign up with Robin: [email protected] .....Fathers especially welcome |
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From the 1st - 9th June 2024 why not join in with the Festival of Nature
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/festofnature
Web site: https://www.bnhc.org.uk/festival-of-nature/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/festofnature
Web site: https://www.bnhc.org.uk/festival-of-nature/
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New for June 2024
WORKING PARTY to control scrub regrowth next session Sunday June 9th 9.30 a.m.
We'll work for an hour and a half. Please sign up with Robin:
[email protected]
Further details will be sent to those who sign up.
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WORKING PARTY to control scrub regrowth next session Sunday June 9th 9.30 a.m.
We'll work for an hour and a half. Please sign up with Robin:
[email protected]
Further details will be sent to those who sign up.
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Want to help out with the last clean-up of the season on the Downs?
FOD+AG DLC Final Session of 23-24 Season Date : Saturday 16th March Time : 10.00 – 11.30am Meeting Point : Sea Walls Scots Pine Corner Target Areas : A. wooded Edge of the Gully to first corner then across Circular Road and left through Wildflower meadow not covered on 24th February. B. top of Sea Walls cliffs, accessible over the fence using long-handled pickers plus Ash Wood. Please sign up in the usual way by eMail to <[email protected]> or telephone to 0117 924 9435 As is traditional on the last session of a season all volunteers will be issued with a FOD+AG token to exchange for liquid refreshment of your choice at the Downs Café following the morning’s session in recognition of your services to Downs Wombling. As we will be finishing at some distance from the Café those of you who usually come on foot might want to consider using some form of transport on this occasion. I would like to think that there can’t be much rain left up there after recent weeks but such thinking is I’m afraid from “somewhere over the rainbow”, so please come suitably dressed and shod for the conditions. Looking forward to another good turnout. Kind regards, Martin. _____________________________________________________________ New events for 2024 from Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project
‘Tweet talk’ – native wildlife in depth birdsong workshop
Sunday 24th March 10am-3pm £30.00 Ever heard the mesmerising melodies of our native songbirds and been stumped as to what is singing so sweetly? Or out on a walk with friends are you dying to share your expertise on the difference between a song thrush and goldfinch as they flit between treetops? Ed Drewitt, well-known author and experienced naturalist will share with us his top tips for identifying birds by delving deeply into the make-up of their distinctive songs. Following an aural and visual introduction in the Conservation Centre to the varied patterns of birdsong you are likely to come across, our expert leads us out on a bird walk. We’ll test our new identification skills and put them into practice in the former Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Conservation Education Centre, former Bristol Zoo Gardens site, the Downs Suitable for adults. --- ‘Scrambling among botanical jewels’ – discovery walk in the Avon Gorge Sunday 7th April 10am-12pm £10.00 Explore this local spectacular Site of Special Scientific Interest on our doorstep and get closer to our secret floral gems which see the Avon Gorge named among the top 3 sites for plants in England! Our botanist expert is Libby Houston, the only person who knows where to find each of these hidden spring flowering rarities having built up a wealth of knowledge over her lifetime. She will guide us on a scramble in the Gully to each special location for a memorable experience. The Gully in the Avon Gorge. This walk involves extremely steep slopes and uneven ground. Boots with strong grip and a walking pole are recommended. Suitable for adults. ----- ‘What floats your goat?’ – family fun Easter holiday session on the Downs Friday 12th April 10am-12pm £10.00 per child Our family Easter holiday fun this year is all about our amazing Bristol environmental heroes in the world-famous Avon Gorge – the wild goats! We’ll kick off with a springtime stroll that might turn into a steep climb (!), in the timeless Avon Gorge Gully to find our hairy heroes with the Downs Ranger, who knows our goats better than anyone. We’ll discover how the goats are looked after on a daily basis, how they came to Bristol and how they carry out the conservation that humans can’t! Then it’s on to springtime fun and games where all the family can share the joyful experience with others of springtime on our iconic Downs. You’ll take home a naturally decorated card and there will be an Easter prize for every child. Family fun holiday session. Suitable for children aged 6-10 with an adult (maximum 2 adults per child, you may bring up to 3 children per adult). In the Gully and on the Downs. ---- ‘Dawn chorus spectacular’ – discovery walk with breakfast Saturday 13th April 5.15am-8.00am £22.00 Immerse yourself in nature’s uplifting orchestra before anyone else has opened an eye, with this spectacular dawn chorus walk. Prepare to be enthralled as we welcome back wildlife presenter and broadcaster, Mike Dilger as he shares his encyclopaedic knowledge with contagious enthusiasm. Mike will explain the patterns and depths of the early morning birdsong concert as well as how to identify individual Downs species. We’ll complete our feel-good session with a delicious spot of hot breakfast and a hot drink of choice in the Downs Café where you can ask our expert any burning questions you may have. Breakfast is a choice of a hot sandwich such as egg, bacon or vegan, or a pastry and a choice of hot drink. Breakfast included in overall ticket price. Suitable for adults. On the Downs. Please note the early start time! ___ Downs Bioblitz – City Nature Challenge 2024 Saturday 27th April 10.00am-11.00am Free of charge Discover more about the local nature on your City’s doorstep. A Bioblitz is a celebration of citizen science at its absolute best where you can get involved in the thrilling recording of how our biodiversity is doing locally! Armed with charts, books, bug pots, trays, sheets, magnifiers, lenses and nets we’ll head off together to see what tantalising species of plant, tree, invertebrate, bird, lichen and mammal we can record. This year we’re running our Bioblitz on the Downs for City Nature Challenge 2024. We’ll find out with everybody how to use the iNaturalist app and take a stroll over some of the most fascinating parts of the Downs and Avon Gorge to record as many species as we can. These are automatically uploaded onto Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife iNaturalist project so we have a record of our shared species survey. Sightings are also viewed by a worldwide community of ecologists so our data is verified and submitted to national database records. Be part of Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife yearly recording community whilst enjoying a beautiful morning ramble! Discovery walk. Meet in front of the former Bristol Zoo Gardens site. No need to book, just turn up. Part of City Nature Challenge 2024. On the Downs. Suitable for adults. ---- ‘Tapestry of trees’ – Granny Downs discovery walk Saturday 4th May 10.00am-11.30am £8.00 What on earth are the ‘Granny Downs’? Explore this special tree trail with Robin Haward from Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge. Along the way, learn how to identify the trees, find out fascinating facts and folklore, and enjoy luscious laburnums, horse chestnuts and hawthorns in spring flower! This is a flat, short stroll suitable for all fitness levels Discovery walk. Part of Bristol Walk Fest. Suitable for adults. On the Granny Downs. ---- Sunday 19th May 10.15am-12.00pm £10.00 Highwaymen, colliers and loo ladies; legionnaires, suffragettes and Cavaliers; gibbets, turnpikes and flying machines: all have played their extraordinary part in the fascinating and hidden past of Bristol’s ‘jewel in the crown’ – the Downs. Join writer and well known story-walker, Clare Reddaway, for a stroll through the past as she weaves stories from the rocks and meadows beneath your feet, and see the Downs through a lens you’ve never before discovered! Discovery walk. Part of Bristol Walk Fest. Suitable for adults. On the Downs. Next FOD+AG Deep Litter Clearance:
Date : Saturday February 24th 2024 Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am Meeting Point : Near the S. end of Ladies Mile where the parking bays on the right come to an end. Target Area : the stretch of the Downs from Ladies Mile to Ash Wood to the S. of the Ivywell Road tarmac path and North of Circular Road including Wildflower Meadow and Sea Walls. Please sign up by email to <[email protected]> or by phone to 0117 924 9435. 
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Dates for your diary...
List of Dead Hedging 2024 dates for your diary Dear friends, Dead hedging 2024 is just about to start. We have 4 dates Sunday a.m. Jan 28th Feb 4th Feb 11th Feb 18th 10.00 - 12.00 ish Do come and join us - just let me know! Bring own refreshments, secateurs, gloves. Loppers and saws provided. Note: sessions at different times could be arranged to suit. I do hope to see you. Best wishes for 2024, Robin [email protected] _____________________________________________________________ Here are the details of the next Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge (FOD+AG) Deep Litter Clean (DLC) Date :Saturday 27.1.24 Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am Meeting Point : Falcon Watch Target Area : Footpath and woodland Edge on right side of Bridge Valley Road down to the Portway including Fairyland plus Woodland edge of Circular Road from Falconwatch to main Vehicular access path to the Gully. Please sign up as usual by eMail to <[email protected]> or by telephone to 0117 924 9435. Looking forward to an excellent turnout to match or even exceed the 23 volunteers on January 6th. Signing up in advance is important to ensure that we have sufficient equipment. Thanks and kind regards, Martin Collins. _____________________________________________________________ FOD+AG First DLC (Deep Litter clean) of 2024 - January 6th Date : Saturday 6. 1 . 2024 Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am: Meeting Point : Corner of Clifton Down and Promenade opposite the Lord Mayor's Residence. Target Area : Clifton Down from top of Bridge Valley Roadto Christchurch Green on the left side of the promenade and Observatory Hill on the right, including the woodland edge of the gorge. Please sign up in the usual way by eMail to <[email protected]> or by telephone to 0117 924 9435. Wrap up warmly and, with the amount of rain recently please ensure that your footwear is waterproof and has a good grip in what in places can be very slippery terrain. Look forward to seeing a good turnout. Martin & (p&p) Timothy. _____________________________________________________________ FOD+AG November Deep Litter Clearance (DLC) Date : Saturday 25.11.23 Time : 10.00 - 11.30am Meeting Point : Intersection of Ladies Mile with tarmac path linking Worrall Road with Ivywell Road. (as for October DLC) Target Area : Durdham Down and Clifton Down north of the tarmac path to the northern edge of Stoke Road and from Belgrave Road in the East to Downleaze in the West. As has become traditional for the last DLC of a calendar year we would be pleased to entertain any volunteers on this occasion to join us at the Downs Cafe for light liquid refreshment from 11.30. Please note the following: 1. Sign up for November in the usual way eMail to <[email protected]> or telephone to 01179249435 2. To avoid a clash with Christmas and New Year celebrationss/holidays/family commitments there will be no December DLC but, lest you forget how to Womble in the interim we will meet again on January 6th 2024 3. The Dates for the remainder of the season will be : Saturday 27.1.24 Saturday 24.2.24 Saturday 16.3.24 Details will appear on the website and on our Facebook Page during the 10 days preceding each session. 4. For those unable to make November 25th - Thank you for your contributions in 2023 and A Happy Christmas and New Year when they come around! Thanks and Kind regards, Martin and p&p Timothy. Also keep an eye on the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge Facebook page: _____________________________________________________________ 
Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project - four events before Christmas... For further information contact the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 903 0609 or e-mail [email protected]. Pre-booking for all events is essential. Book online at https://www.bristolzoo.org.uk/visit/events or call 0117 4285300. _________________________________________________________ 1) Buds, bark and beauty - discovery walk on the Downs Sunday 18th November 10.00am - 12.00pm £7.50 suitable for adults It seems so easy to identify a tree in summer but how can we find out more about each species in winter! It’s easier than you might think when you join in our exciting discovery walk with our fabulous ecologist from Avellana Ecology, Neill Talbot. We’ll take a look at our magnificent community of trees on the Downs and you’ll be impressing your friends with your knowledge after you’ve delved into their identifying features. _________________________________________________________ 2) It’s an orang-utan’s world - wildlife talk. Wednesday 22nd November At the Conservation Education Centre, Clifton 7.00pm - 8.15pm £10 Suitable for adults and children aged 12 plus. Children must be accompanied by an adult. An unforgettable opportunity to take in the world famous multi-award winning Silverback producer/director Huw Cordey, as he shares with us his touching stories of filming critically endangered orang-utans in northern Sumatra. Huw takes us through the way our view of this endearing species has changed through 30 years of scientific study, and his uplifting experiences of filming them. We’ll be treated to a combination of behind the scenes craftsmanship in filmmaking and the amazing natural history of orang-utans, illustrated with dazzling stills and sequence clips. A real treat for AGDW’s ever-growing group of supporters – especially as Huw will take questions at the end; a night to remember! _________________________________________________________ 3) Craft a Christmas Wreath Saturday 2nd December 10.00am - 12.00pm Friday 6th October 6.00pm - 8.15pm £60 Let your creativity flow and be part of the experience as we team up for the first time with the fabulous Belle de Jour Clifton florist and flower academy to create a unique Christmas wreath at the former Bristol Zoo Gardens. Express yourself as we craft in some of the beautiful foliage sourced in the stunning and expertly maintained Gardens in your own unique Christmas creation. Only include if space: [Kika, who has run Belle de Jour florist in Clifton Village for many years, is a locally well-known and highly trained French florist who will guide us through our wreath making from start to finish; allowing you to take home an individually crafted beautiful wreath for your Christmas festivities.] We’ll be in a joyful and festive mood, with a glass of prosecco or cup of coffee to choose from to accompany a slice of delicious cake! _________________________________________________________ 4) Christmas Star Party on the Downs! Tues 5th or Weds 6th or Thurs 7th December (depending on weather conditions) * 7.00pm - 9.00pm Join in our Live Star Party hosted by Explorer Dome presenters together with Bristol Astronomical Society as we wrap up warm for a sparkling seasonal night of stargazing. Join your Downs community & the festive mood as you gaze up at the dazzling night sky through a telescope & listen to stories written in the stars! £10.00 (adults) £5.00 (children). Includes a hot drink and a star-shaped cookie! Booking essential. Pay on the night. Run in conjunction with Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge. *You need to be free for all three evenings as the weather may be unsuitable on the 5th or 6th December. _____________________________________________________________ |
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October 2023:
Downs litter clearing:
Womble Alert - October 2023
Details:
Date : Saturday 28th October
Time : 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point : Ladies Mile intersection with tarmac path linking it to Worrall Road.
Target Area : Clifton Down between the tarmac path and Fountains Hill & including Zoo Banks
Thank you to those who have already been in touch.To everyone else, please contact me in the usual way by eMail to [email protected] or by telephone to 01179249435.
Looking forward to meeting up with as many of you as possible including any new to Downs wombling!
Kind regards, Martin Collins and p&p Timothy Dowling.
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Last months litter picking and this month's date.
As usual at this time of year on the last Saturday of September, committee member Martin Collins led a dozen intrepid volunteers on a litter picking exercise to remove accumulated rubbish from the Granny Downs. Ten large sacks of rubbish were collected together with one bicycle and bizarrely one microwave.
Team leader Martin reports an increase in fly-tipped rubbish in general. These practical forays are part of FOD+AG's winter programme of works and the team deserve our respect and gratitude for their commitment to maintaining the safety and well-being of Downs users and its wildlife.
The team will be out again on Saturday October 28th. If you want to want to join our merry band of Downs Wombles or just want more information, please contact the Group Leader Martin Collins by email: [email protected] or by telephone on 01179249435.
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New for September 2023:
FOD+AG WOMBLE ALERT - Our new season of Saturday morning clearance sessions of litter accumulated in more inaccessible locations throughout our 'Patch' begins on the last Saturday of September and Timothy and I are looking forward to welcoming old friends, and perhaps some new volunteers too, to join us. The details are as follows:
Date : Saturday 30th September 2023
Meeting Time and Duration : 10.00 - 11.30am
Meeting Point : The cut through close to The White Tree roundabout, linking Westbury Road to top of Parry's Lane (recently commandeered as a Lorry and Coach Park).
Target Area : The Granny Downs and the parallel greensward from the Seven Sisters to St. Monica's.
Please note that - 1. equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own.
2. when weather has been wet , as it appears is predicted, parts of our target area can be muddy so please wear suitable footwear.
3. to help us to plan adequately please sign up in the time honoured fashion with me at [email protected] or by phone on 01179249435
Thank you.
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Downs litter clearing:
Womble Alert - October 2023
Details:
Date : Saturday 28th October
Time : 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point : Ladies Mile intersection with tarmac path linking it to Worrall Road.
Target Area : Clifton Down between the tarmac path and Fountains Hill & including Zoo Banks
Thank you to those who have already been in touch.To everyone else, please contact me in the usual way by eMail to [email protected] or by telephone to 01179249435.
Looking forward to meeting up with as many of you as possible including any new to Downs wombling!
Kind regards, Martin Collins and p&p Timothy Dowling.
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Last months litter picking and this month's date.
As usual at this time of year on the last Saturday of September, committee member Martin Collins led a dozen intrepid volunteers on a litter picking exercise to remove accumulated rubbish from the Granny Downs. Ten large sacks of rubbish were collected together with one bicycle and bizarrely one microwave.
Team leader Martin reports an increase in fly-tipped rubbish in general. These practical forays are part of FOD+AG's winter programme of works and the team deserve our respect and gratitude for their commitment to maintaining the safety and well-being of Downs users and its wildlife.
The team will be out again on Saturday October 28th. If you want to want to join our merry band of Downs Wombles or just want more information, please contact the Group Leader Martin Collins by email: [email protected] or by telephone on 01179249435.
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New for September 2023:
FOD+AG WOMBLE ALERT - Our new season of Saturday morning clearance sessions of litter accumulated in more inaccessible locations throughout our 'Patch' begins on the last Saturday of September and Timothy and I are looking forward to welcoming old friends, and perhaps some new volunteers too, to join us. The details are as follows:
Date : Saturday 30th September 2023
Meeting Time and Duration : 10.00 - 11.30am
Meeting Point : The cut through close to The White Tree roundabout, linking Westbury Road to top of Parry's Lane (recently commandeered as a Lorry and Coach Park).
Target Area : The Granny Downs and the parallel greensward from the Seven Sisters to St. Monica's.
Please note that - 1. equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own.
2. when weather has been wet , as it appears is predicted, parts of our target area can be muddy so please wear suitable footwear.
3. to help us to plan adequately please sign up in the time honoured fashion with me at [email protected] or by phone on 01179249435
Thank you.
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For July 2023.
A new event from the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project: Butterfly Heaven! Discovery walk on the Downs. Sunday July 9th 2pm – 3.30pm £7.50 Have you ever heard of a Holly blue or a Speckled wood? You might be surprised to learn they are names of native butterflies found on our delightful Downs in Bristol! Get involved in our hunt as we work out which of our 21 summer species inhabit which habitat and discover some unexpected fascinating facts along the way. Join Timothy Dowling of FoDAG and others as we take a pleasant afternoon stroll on the Downs to see which species we can find. To book visit https://www.wildplace.org.uk/whats-on-page/butterfly-heaven/ or call: 0117 428 5300 _____________________________________________________________ DLC (Deep Litter Collection) March 2023 Last FOD+AG Litter Clearance Session of 2022 - 2023 season Date : Saturday 25.3.23 Time : 10.00 - 11.30am Meeting Point : Intersection of Ladies Mile with tarmac path linking Ivywell Road with Worrall Road. Target Area : Either side of Stoke Road from top of Stoke Hill in the west to top of Blackboy Hill in the east including environs of the Water Tower and Cafe to the north and The Dumps to the.south. A self-identifying group of us will first be deployed to widen the several paths through the Dumps to allow litter clearance from there. * The coda to this final movement for those who can make it will be a gathering at the Downs Cafe for refreshment in celebration another hard-worked and successful DLC Season. As indicated in the notice of this event already published od our web-side and Facebook Page, please sign up in the usual manner by telephone at 01179249435 or by email to <[email protected]> and on this occasion add whether you would be prepared to use tools to cut back encroaching vegetation or would rather stick to litter clearance. Thank you .........and kind regards, Martin See also Friends of the Downs Facebook page ___________________ DLC (Deep Litter Collection) early 2023 DATES: Saturday 25th February (please note new information). Late February FOD+AG Deep Litter Clearence (DLC) Date : Saturday 25 2.23 Time : 10.00 - 1130am Meeting Point : Close to the last parking bays on the west side of Ladies Mile just before where it joins Circular Road. Target Area : South of the tarmac path from Ivywell Road to the woodland edge of the Gorge between Ladies Mile in the East to and including Ash Wood in the West. Please sign up as usual with Martin at <[email protected]> or 01179249435 ____________________ Saturday 25th March - a general clean-up in a more open location. Please sign up, if you would like to join us in the usual way via email to [email protected] or by phone on 0117 924 9435. The more of us who help, the less the burden on anyone. Martin Collins ____________________ Also: Dead Hedging in January and February 2023 Protect the wild flower meadows by restoring the ‘dead hedges’ that guide runners and walkers away from sites. Do come and join us...it makes a huge difference to the wildflower meadow! Tools provided - bring gloves and secateurs if you have them. DATES: 29th January 9.30am. 5th February 2.00pm.(note time) 12th February 9.30am. 19 February 9.30am. To sign up please email Robin [email protected] _____________________________________________________________ FOD+AG Deep Litter Clearance – 7th January 2023
A Happy Christmas and New Year from Timothy and I and we look forward to meeting up in January. Kind regards, Martin and Timothy ________________________________________________________ Tuesday 29th or Wednesday 30th November or Thursday 1st December* Christmas Star Party on the Downs. Run in conjunction with the Friends of the Downs & Avon Gorge. Wrap up warm for a seasonal night of stargazing with the Bristol Astronomical Society and Shaaron Leverment and Ben Brown from Explorer Dome. Be amazed as you look at the Orion Nebula through a telescope. Learn how to spot the main winter constellations and enjoy hearing the stories written in the stars with a unique festive twist. 7 - 9pm, £10 (adults) £5 (children). Includes a hot drink and a star-shaped cookie! Please book in advance but pay on the evening. Book by calling 0117 903 0609 or email [email protected] *You need to be free for all three evenings as the weather may be unsuitable on the 29th or 30th November. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
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Wombles Alert!
FOD+AG Deep Litter Clearance – 29th October 2022
Those of you who are members of FOD+AG will have read of the award we have received - the Pick Me Up, community clean up prize in this year’s Growing a Better Future. Congratulations to all those who have participated in our DLCs.
A condition of the award (which is £1,000 for promoting our work on the Downs and in the Gorge) is that we should provide an opportunity for members of the company making the award, Foresters Company, to spend a morning engaged in one of our regular activities. This will be accomplished by inviting them to our next DLC and we would like a good turnout to show them ‘our ropes’ and to help explain their purpose.
Necessarily this will involve some minor adjustments to our usual sessions, so it is important that you read the details of the event, below, carefully before committing yourselves to event. Please sign up in the time-honoured fashion by contacting me by email [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435.
Details as follows:
Date: Saturday 29th October
Time: 9.30am – 12.00noon
Meeting Point: Blackrock Quarry Car Park, off the Portway – adjacent to the quarry at the bottom of The Gully. (In the past some people have preferred to make their way down the Gully on foot, but please be aware that this session will be longer than usual if you stay for the whole time and you might well feel daunted by a climb back up the Gully at the end!)
Target Area: The north bank of the River Avon which can be reached from the pavement, from the entrance to Blackrock Quarry to the first 50mph sign in the centre of the Portway in the direction of Avonmouth.
Please keep an eye on our website and/or our Facebook page where any updates will appear. Timothy and I look forward to seeing as many of you as can make it on the 29th.
Martin Collins
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Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events programme summer - winter 2022
For further information contact Mandy Leivers (Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager) on 0117 903 0609 or e-mail [email protected].
Pre-booking for all events is essential.
For all events (apart from the Christmas star party) book online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
For the Christmas star party only book by calling 0117 9030609 or emailing [email protected]
Details of meeting points are given after booking.
Sunday 10th July
Butterflies of the Downs (Walk)
Join Timothy Dowling from the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge on a Sunday afternoon stroll around Zoo Banks. Along the way, learn to identify butterflies and find out more about the lives of these lovely insects.
2.00pm - 4.00pm, £7.50
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 21st July
Bat and moth night (Walk)
Meet some of the Avon Gorge and Downs’ nocturnal residents on our special evening walk. Experts Ray Barnett and David Brown will be on hand to identify and tell us about these fascinating animals.
9.00pm - 11.00pm, £7.50
Run in conjunction with Avon Bat Group and the Bristol & District Moth Group.
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 28th July
Gorge-ous goats (Family event – suitable for children aged 6+)
Explore Goat Gully as we visit the Avon Gorge’s cutest and hairiest residents. Find out how these
conservation heroes are helping to save rare plants through our interactive story and playing our
gobbling goats game.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £5.00 per person
NB: There are very steep slopes, uneven ground, kissing gates and steps on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 13th August
Spiders of the Avon Gorge (Walk)
Explore the Gully with Mark Pajak as we take a look at the variety of spiders living in the Avon Gorge. We’ll search for signs of elusive purse web spiders (relatives of tarantulas!), jumping spiders and orb weavers as well as many other species.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £7.50
NB: There are very steep slopes, uneven ground and steps on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 4th October
Eight-legged wonders (Talk)
Join Mark Pajak for a fascinating introduction to spiders. This talk will look at their habitats, lifestyles, ingenious methods for capturing prey, luring mates and avoiding predators. Learn about the different kinds found living in the Avon Gorge and on the Downs and be intrigued as Mark spins a yarn about the fantastic discovery of the purse-web spider (a relative of tarantulas no less!).
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 20th October
Owl prowl on the Downs (Walk)
Join owl specialist Ian McGuire for a fantastic evening on the Downs learning all about British owls. If we’re lucky, our resident tawny owls might put in an appearance!
7.30pm - 9.30pm, £10.00
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 22nd October
Identifying birds on the Downs in autumn (Course)
Learn how to identify resident and over-wintering migrant birds with Ed Drewitt. After an introduction, our expert will lead you on a walk, teaching you to identify the birds you’re likely to see and hear on the Downs at this time of year. This course is aimed at those who are developing their bird identification skills and/or have been on one of our spring birdsong courses.
10.00am - 3.30pm, £30.00
On the Downs and at Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Wednesday 26th October
Awesome owls (Children’s event for 8 – 12 year olds)
Discover the wonderful world of wild owls with expert Ian McGuire. Investigate how they live and hunt in this hands-on workshop, then create your own awesome owl from natural materials to take home.
Drop off children at 10.00am and pick them up at 3.30pm, £15.00 per child
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for children’s events, courses and talks).
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 8th November
Goats in the Gully (Talk)
The Avon Gorge is one of the most important sites for rare plants in the UK - home to the iconic Bristol onion and Bristol rock-cress. Join Downs Supervisor Ben Skuse and Mandy Leivers from the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project to discover how our ‘hairy conservationists’ are helping to restore flower-rich grasslands in this special area of the Avon Gorge.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 19th November
Trees in winter on the Downs (Walk)
Join ecologist Neill Talbot for a walk to learn how to identify British native trees in winter by looking at their buds, twigs and bark.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £10.00
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 29th or Wednesday 30th November or Thursday 1st December*
Christmas star party on the Downs
Wrap up warm for a seasonal night of stargazing with the Bristol Astronomical Society and Shaaron Leverment and Ben Brown from Explorer Dome. Be amazed as you look at the Orion Nebula through a telescope. Learn how to spot the main winter constellations and enjoy hearing the stories written in the stars with a unique festive twist.
7.00pm - 9.00pm, £10.00 (adults) £5.00 (children)
Includes a hot drink and a star-shaped cookie!
*You need to be free for all three evenings as the weather may be unsuitable on the 29th or 30th November.
Run in conjunction with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
On the Downs
Please book in advance but pay on the evening. This event only – Book by calling 0117 9030609 or email [email protected]
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is a partnership of Bristol City Council, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Natural England, University of Bristol, the Society of Merchant Venturers, Downs Committee,
Bristol Zoological Society, National Trust and Forestry England.
We also work in partnership with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is working to secure the outstanding wildlife interest of the Avon Gorge, Clifton Down, Durdham Down and Leigh Woods, as well as raising awareness and understanding of this unique location and its importance for people and wildlife.
Mandy Leivers,
Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager,
Learning Department,
Bristol Zoo Gardens,
Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA
Tel: 0117 9030609 / 0117 4285460
e-mail: [email protected]
www.avongorge.org.uk www.facebook.com/avongorge www.bristolzoo.org.uk
______________________________________
Next Deep Litter Clearance details:
Our last DLC of the current season which would be expected to be on March 26th has been brought forward by 2 weeks - a perhaps long overdue gesture to accommodate the ever-earlier onset of Spring when the thoughts of birds and small mammals turn to procreation.
Date : 12th March 2022
Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am
Meeting Point : Car Park in Black Rock Quarry (the one immediately
below Sea Walls in the Gorge.
Target Area : Black Rock Quarry, The Gully Quarry and, depending on numbers The Gully Goat Enclosure.
Please sign up as usual by eMail [email protected]
or by telephone on 0117 924 9435.
With apologies for the short notice and kind regards,
Martin (Collins)
_______________________________________________
FOD+AG Deep Litter Clearance – 29th October 2022
Those of you who are members of FOD+AG will have read of the award we have received - the Pick Me Up, community clean up prize in this year’s Growing a Better Future. Congratulations to all those who have participated in our DLCs.
A condition of the award (which is £1,000 for promoting our work on the Downs and in the Gorge) is that we should provide an opportunity for members of the company making the award, Foresters Company, to spend a morning engaged in one of our regular activities. This will be accomplished by inviting them to our next DLC and we would like a good turnout to show them ‘our ropes’ and to help explain their purpose.
Necessarily this will involve some minor adjustments to our usual sessions, so it is important that you read the details of the event, below, carefully before committing yourselves to event. Please sign up in the time-honoured fashion by contacting me by email [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435.
Details as follows:
Date: Saturday 29th October
Time: 9.30am – 12.00noon
Meeting Point: Blackrock Quarry Car Park, off the Portway – adjacent to the quarry at the bottom of The Gully. (In the past some people have preferred to make their way down the Gully on foot, but please be aware that this session will be longer than usual if you stay for the whole time and you might well feel daunted by a climb back up the Gully at the end!)
Target Area: The north bank of the River Avon which can be reached from the pavement, from the entrance to Blackrock Quarry to the first 50mph sign in the centre of the Portway in the direction of Avonmouth.
Please keep an eye on our website and/or our Facebook page where any updates will appear. Timothy and I look forward to seeing as many of you as can make it on the 29th.
Martin Collins
_____________________________________
Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events programme summer - winter 2022
For further information contact Mandy Leivers (Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager) on 0117 903 0609 or e-mail [email protected].
Pre-booking for all events is essential.
For all events (apart from the Christmas star party) book online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
For the Christmas star party only book by calling 0117 9030609 or emailing [email protected]
Details of meeting points are given after booking.
Sunday 10th July
Butterflies of the Downs (Walk)
Join Timothy Dowling from the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge on a Sunday afternoon stroll around Zoo Banks. Along the way, learn to identify butterflies and find out more about the lives of these lovely insects.
2.00pm - 4.00pm, £7.50
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 21st July
Bat and moth night (Walk)
Meet some of the Avon Gorge and Downs’ nocturnal residents on our special evening walk. Experts Ray Barnett and David Brown will be on hand to identify and tell us about these fascinating animals.
9.00pm - 11.00pm, £7.50
Run in conjunction with Avon Bat Group and the Bristol & District Moth Group.
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 28th July
Gorge-ous goats (Family event – suitable for children aged 6+)
Explore Goat Gully as we visit the Avon Gorge’s cutest and hairiest residents. Find out how these
conservation heroes are helping to save rare plants through our interactive story and playing our
gobbling goats game.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £5.00 per person
NB: There are very steep slopes, uneven ground, kissing gates and steps on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 13th August
Spiders of the Avon Gorge (Walk)
Explore the Gully with Mark Pajak as we take a look at the variety of spiders living in the Avon Gorge. We’ll search for signs of elusive purse web spiders (relatives of tarantulas!), jumping spiders and orb weavers as well as many other species.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £7.50
NB: There are very steep slopes, uneven ground and steps on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 4th October
Eight-legged wonders (Talk)
Join Mark Pajak for a fascinating introduction to spiders. This talk will look at their habitats, lifestyles, ingenious methods for capturing prey, luring mates and avoiding predators. Learn about the different kinds found living in the Avon Gorge and on the Downs and be intrigued as Mark spins a yarn about the fantastic discovery of the purse-web spider (a relative of tarantulas no less!).
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 20th October
Owl prowl on the Downs (Walk)
Join owl specialist Ian McGuire for a fantastic evening on the Downs learning all about British owls. If we’re lucky, our resident tawny owls might put in an appearance!
7.30pm - 9.30pm, £10.00
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 22nd October
Identifying birds on the Downs in autumn (Course)
Learn how to identify resident and over-wintering migrant birds with Ed Drewitt. After an introduction, our expert will lead you on a walk, teaching you to identify the birds you’re likely to see and hear on the Downs at this time of year. This course is aimed at those who are developing their bird identification skills and/or have been on one of our spring birdsong courses.
10.00am - 3.30pm, £30.00
On the Downs and at Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Wednesday 26th October
Awesome owls (Children’s event for 8 – 12 year olds)
Discover the wonderful world of wild owls with expert Ian McGuire. Investigate how they live and hunt in this hands-on workshop, then create your own awesome owl from natural materials to take home.
Drop off children at 10.00am and pick them up at 3.30pm, £15.00 per child
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for children’s events, courses and talks).
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 8th November
Goats in the Gully (Talk)
The Avon Gorge is one of the most important sites for rare plants in the UK - home to the iconic Bristol onion and Bristol rock-cress. Join Downs Supervisor Ben Skuse and Mandy Leivers from the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project to discover how our ‘hairy conservationists’ are helping to restore flower-rich grasslands in this special area of the Avon Gorge.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens’ Conservation Education Centre (although Bristol Zoo Gardens will close to the public on 3rd September 2022, the Conservation Education Centre, on Guthrie Road, will remain open for courses and talks). Venue accessible to wheelchair users. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 19th November
Trees in winter on the Downs (Walk)
Join ecologist Neill Talbot for a walk to learn how to identify British native trees in winter by looking at their buds, twigs and bark.
10.30am - 12.30pm, £10.00
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at www.bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events/AG&DWP or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 29th or Wednesday 30th November or Thursday 1st December*
Christmas star party on the Downs
Wrap up warm for a seasonal night of stargazing with the Bristol Astronomical Society and Shaaron Leverment and Ben Brown from Explorer Dome. Be amazed as you look at the Orion Nebula through a telescope. Learn how to spot the main winter constellations and enjoy hearing the stories written in the stars with a unique festive twist.
7.00pm - 9.00pm, £10.00 (adults) £5.00 (children)
Includes a hot drink and a star-shaped cookie!
*You need to be free for all three evenings as the weather may be unsuitable on the 29th or 30th November.
Run in conjunction with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
On the Downs
Please book in advance but pay on the evening. This event only – Book by calling 0117 9030609 or email [email protected]
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is a partnership of Bristol City Council, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Natural England, University of Bristol, the Society of Merchant Venturers, Downs Committee,
Bristol Zoological Society, National Trust and Forestry England.
We also work in partnership with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is working to secure the outstanding wildlife interest of the Avon Gorge, Clifton Down, Durdham Down and Leigh Woods, as well as raising awareness and understanding of this unique location and its importance for people and wildlife.
Mandy Leivers,
Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager,
Learning Department,
Bristol Zoo Gardens,
Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA
Tel: 0117 9030609 / 0117 4285460
e-mail: [email protected]
www.avongorge.org.uk www.facebook.com/avongorge www.bristolzoo.org.uk
______________________________________
Next Deep Litter Clearance details:
Our last DLC of the current season which would be expected to be on March 26th has been brought forward by 2 weeks - a perhaps long overdue gesture to accommodate the ever-earlier onset of Spring when the thoughts of birds and small mammals turn to procreation.
Date : 12th March 2022
Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am
Meeting Point : Car Park in Black Rock Quarry (the one immediately
below Sea Walls in the Gorge.
Target Area : Black Rock Quarry, The Gully Quarry and, depending on numbers The Gully Goat Enclosure.
Please sign up as usual by eMail [email protected]
or by telephone on 0117 924 9435.
With apologies for the short notice and kind regards,
Martin (Collins)
_______________________________________________
Here are the details for the next Downs clean-up:
FOD+AG Deep Litter Clean February 2022
Date : Saturday 26.2.22
Time : 10.00 -11.30am
Meeting Point : on Ladies Mile at its intersection with the Ivywell Road - Worrall Road tarmac path.
Target Area : North of the tarmac path from Downleazeto top of Blackboy Hill and including the verge of Stoke Road containing the Downs Cafe, Water Tower and Toilet Block.
Volunteers please sign up in the usual manner by eMail to [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435.
We look forward to seeing as many of you as can make it.
Martin (Collins)
_________________________________________
FOD+AG Deep Litter Clean February 2022
Date : Saturday 26.2.22
Time : 10.00 -11.30am
Meeting Point : on Ladies Mile at its intersection with the Ivywell Road - Worrall Road tarmac path.
Target Area : North of the tarmac path from Downleazeto top of Blackboy Hill and including the verge of Stoke Road containing the Downs Cafe, Water Tower and Toilet Block.
Volunteers please sign up in the usual manner by eMail to [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435.
We look forward to seeing as many of you as can make it.
Martin (Collins)
_________________________________________
Imagining The Downs of the Future: Your chance to participate in an innovative project looking at how the Downs might be in the future. All free, no need to book so why not come along, bring the family and join in the Workshop. {please see attachment}
What do we want The Downs to be like in the future? In this creative-mapping workshop, led by walking artist Dr Siobhan O’Neill, we’ll explore what you treasure and what you might discard as a starting point for reimagining The Downs. Then, illustrate your imaginings in the creation of a future map for 2050.
Run with the Friends of the Down and Avon Gorge and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council via the Wastes and Strays project https://research.ncl.ac.uk/wastesandstrays/
This family-friendly event consists of a guided walk on the Downs to capture images of treasure and trash, followed by a drop-in creative workshop to map out your visions for the future. Your visions will help start a conversation about how we create the urban common we want to see – considering stewardship, biodiversity, access and diverse uses.
Workshop
Sunday 27th February | 10.30am – 1.30pm. By the Downs Dressing rooms.
_________________________________________
What do we want The Downs to be like in the future? In this creative-mapping workshop, led by walking artist Dr Siobhan O’Neill, we’ll explore what you treasure and what you might discard as a starting point for reimagining The Downs. Then, illustrate your imaginings in the creation of a future map for 2050.
Run with the Friends of the Down and Avon Gorge and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council via the Wastes and Strays project https://research.ncl.ac.uk/wastesandstrays/
This family-friendly event consists of a guided walk on the Downs to capture images of treasure and trash, followed by a drop-in creative workshop to map out your visions for the future. Your visions will help start a conversation about how we create the urban common we want to see – considering stewardship, biodiversity, access and diverse uses.
Workshop
Sunday 27th February | 10.30am – 1.30pm. By the Downs Dressing rooms.
_________________________________________
Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project (www.avongorge.org.uk) events programme spring 2022
For further information contact Mandy Leivers (Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager) on 0117 903 0609 or e-mail [email protected]. Pre-booking for all events is essential and can be done online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or by calling 0117 4285300. Details of meeting points are given after booking.
Saturday 12th March
Meet the Avon Gorge goat keeper (Walk)
Search for our herd of gorge-ous goats on this strenuous walk in the Gully. Hear about our rare breed Bagot and Kashmir goats and find out how these 'hairy conservationists' are making space for the rare plants of the Avon Gorge.
10.00am - 12.00pm, £7.50
NB: There are very, very steep slopes and uneven ground on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 15th March
A year in the life of birdsong (Talk)
During 2020, Tim Dowling started recording the birds singing on the Downs, creating a remarkable collection of recordings. In tonight’s talk Ed Drewitt, will use them to show how the peak dawn chorus develops during the course of an hour and how birds change their singing behaviour throughout the year. Tim will also share how he went about making the recordings and what his personal highlights were.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 26th March
Learning birdsong on the Downs (Course)
The Downs are home to a wide range of birds and a great place to learn how to identify them from their song. After a multimedia introduction to the birds you’re likely to see and hear Ed Drewitt will lead you on a walk to identify birds ‘in the field’.
10.00am - 3.30pm, £30.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 2nd April
Gorge-ous spring plants (Walk)
The Avon Gorge is internationally important for its rare and interesting plants. Discover spring-flowering rarities on a scramble around the Avon Gorge with local botanist Libby Houston.
10.00am - 12.00pm, £7.50
NB: There are very, very steep slopes, uneven ground and steps on this walk.
In the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call0117 4285300.
Sunday 3rd April
Early birds and bacon butties walk (with a veggie or vegan option)
Join us for an early morning walk with bird expert Michael Johnson. After learning how to identify birds on the Downs, it’s back to the Zoo for a spot of breakfast.
6.00am - 8.30am Note the early start time!
£15.00 (includes a bacon bap, egg butty or vegan bap plus tea or coffee).
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 14th April
Feathered friends (Children’s event for 8 – 12 year olds)
The Downs are a brilliant place for birds from blue tits and blackbirds through to our super speedy peregrine falcons. On this egg-stra special Easter event, have fun learning to identify and discover more about our feathered friends. In the afternoon, make an amazing bird mask to take home.
Drop off children at 10am and pick them up at 3.30pm
£20.00 per child
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 30th April
Spring on the Downs in batik (Course)
Come and learn the art of batik (using hot wax and fabric dyes) to create an individual picture inspired by wildlife found on the Downs in spring. Artist Jo Whiteland will show you how to design your picture, transfer to fabric and apply the wax and dyes to build up colour and texture before dipping in a dye bath to create the characteristic batik crackle effect.
10.00am - 4.30pm, £50.00 (includes materials).
Suitable for ages 11+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult).
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call0117 4285300.
Thursday 5th May
Butterfly Britain (Talk)
Butterflies have been collected and studied in Britain for hundreds of years and their decline over recent times has been dramatic. Enjoy Oliver Smart’s stunning photographs as he takes you on a journey to see many of the resident butterfly species of these isles. His talk will cover the behaviour, habitats and the relationships with other plants and animals that make these little insects so uniquely special.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Friday 13th May
Music with Mummy® on the Downs (For children under 4 years old)
Let’s make some melodious music on the Downs. Decorate and play a shaker, sing, dance and meet some wildlife puppets with Fiona from the well known ‘Music with Mummy®’ franchise (of course daddies, grandparents or any other responsible adults are equally welcome!).
10.00am - 11.00am, £5.00 per child (babies under 1 and adults can come for free!)
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Sunday 15th May
Writing the Downs (Course)
The Downs are haunted by a rich human and ecological history. In this creative writing workshop led by Poet in Residence, Dr John Wedgwood Clarke, we’ll explore the people and flora and fauna that have shaped its distinctive landscape and think about how the traces of the past can inform writing our own experiences of the Downs.
10.30am – 4.00pm, £25.00
Run in conjunction with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council via the Wastes and Strays project www.research.ncl.ac.uk/wastesandstrays .The event consists of a guided walk on the Downs in the morning and an indoor writing workshop in the afternoon.
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is a partnership of Bristol City Council, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Natural England, University of Bristol, the Society of Merchant Venturers, Downs Committee,
Bristol Zoological Society, National Trust and Forestry England.
We also work in partnership with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is working to secure the outstanding wildlife interest of the Avon Gorge, Clifton Down, Durdham Down and Leigh Woods, as well as raising awareness and understanding of this unique location and its importance for people and wildlife.
Mandy Leivers,
Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager,
Learning Department,
Bristol Zoo Gardens,
Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA
Tel: 0117 9030609 / 0117 4285460
e-mail: [email protected]
www.avongorge.org.uk www.facebook.com/avongorge www.bristolzoo.org.uk
_________________________________________________________________
Two new Deep Litter clearing events for January 2022:
As promised at the last event in our Wombling Calendar for 2021 we will be litter-picking on the regular timetabled date of Saturday January 29th but, in addition an extra outing is proposed for Saturday January 15th.
Details are outlined below. Volunteers are requested to sign up for either or both dates in the usual way by contacting me be eMail at [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435
Date: 15.1.22
Time: 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point: Extension to top of Parry’s Lane now used as a HGV and Coach Park but which should accommodate our small number of vehicles.
Target Area(s): From Clay Pit Road Traffic Lights to Wills Hall northwards to St. Monica’s and through the Granny Downs.
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT IF THERE IS MUCH RAIN BETWEEN NOW AND JAN 15TH. PARTS OF THE GRANNY DOWNS CAN BECOME WATERLOGGED AND FOOTWEAR MIGHT NEED TO BE SELECTED WITH THIS IN MIND.
Date: 29.1.22
Time: 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point: On Ladies Mile where it intersects with the tarmac path linking Worrall Road with Ivywell Road.
Target Area: Clifton Down to the East of Ladies mile from the tarmac path to Fountains Hill including Zoo Banks.
Timothy and I look forward to meeting up with as many of you as can make it on either or both of these dates and send our best wishes for the New Year.
Take care and Kind regards,
Martin (Collins) and Timothy (Dowling)
___________________________________________
NOTICE
DEER LITTER CLEARANCE: December 4th
Having consulted with last weekend's volunteers, I have decided to change the November cancellation to a postponement.
Details will be as for November 27th except for one.
On Timothy's suggestion to get closer to our starting point and to avoid having to cross Bridge Valley Road :
Meeting Point : NOT FOUNTAINS HILL but beside the triangle of greensward adjacent to the Lord Mayors Residence. This is the extension of Clifton Down which makes up 2 sides of the triangle. Apparently, on Saturdays parking here is free!
Thank you
Martin
_________________________________________
FOD+AG November Deep Litter Clearance
Next Deep litter clear.
Date : 27th November 2021
Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am
Meeting Point : Fountains Hill
Target Area : Woodland Edge from Bridge Valley Road along the Promenade to Observatory Hill
Please sign up in the usual way with Martin at <[email protected]> or on 0117 924 9435.
Kind regards,
Martin
____________________________________________
FOD+AG October Deep Litter Clearance
The arrangements for this months DLC are as follows:
Date : Saturday October 30th
Time : 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point : Western side of Ladies Mile adjacent to parking bays closest to the
Junction with Circular Road
Target Area : South of tarmac path linking Ivywell Road to Ladies Mile including
the wildflower Meadow and the parallel strip to the South of Circular
Road back to where we ended the September DLC.
In preparation please :
1. Sign up in the usual way at [email protected] or 01179249435
2 Check weather on the day and beforehand to choose clothing and footwear
appropriate to the conditions
3 If you are a first time volunteer let me know so that I can send you copies of
the H&S protocols within which we work ,and obtain information needed to ensure you are covered by the Insurance Policy provided by BCC.
We send kind regards look forward to meeting up on the 30th
Martin (Collins)
________________________________________________________
FOD+AG’s First Deep Litter Clearance of the 2021 – 2022 Season
For all potential volunteers out there waiting with bated breath for this announcement, your patience has been rewarded. We will begin our wombling activities again on Saturday September 25th – see below for details.
It being the first session following much heavier use of the Downs during the summer and also after the recent Music Event there, we will target the area in the far south west corner of our patch known as Ash Wood. That is where we will meet, although the reach of our litter picking will be determined by the number of volunteers who turn up! To ensure that we can equip you all and to plan a route, it is most important that you sign up in advance in the normal way
By eMail [email protected] or telephone 0117 924 9435.
DATE : Saturday 25th September
TIME : 10.00am – 11.30am
LOCATION : Western-most grassy area variously known as being adjacent to Ash Wood, the Sea Walls Toilet block or the Ice Cream Van!
PREPARATION :
1, (re)-familiarise yourself with the Health and Safety protocols within in which, for insurance purposes, we operate – for new recruits, you will receive a copy of these when you sign up: you will also be asked for contact details of a relative or close friend, in case of emergency on site; and you will be asked to arrive on site at 9.45 on the day of session with us for a short introduction to H&S by Timothy Dowling.
2. Please note weather conditions on the day and for the week before to ensure that you are appropriately clothed and particularly shod for the activity.
We will look forward to meeting up again or for the first time in a fortnight’s time. Until then we send our thanks and kind regards,
Martin Collins (DLC Coordinator)
________________________________
For further information contact Mandy Leivers (Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager) on 0117 903 0609 or e-mail [email protected]. Pre-booking for all events is essential and can be done online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or by calling 0117 4285300. Details of meeting points are given after booking.
Saturday 12th March
Meet the Avon Gorge goat keeper (Walk)
Search for our herd of gorge-ous goats on this strenuous walk in the Gully. Hear about our rare breed Bagot and Kashmir goats and find out how these 'hairy conservationists' are making space for the rare plants of the Avon Gorge.
10.00am - 12.00pm, £7.50
NB: There are very, very steep slopes and uneven ground on this walk.
On the Downs and in the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Tuesday 15th March
A year in the life of birdsong (Talk)
During 2020, Tim Dowling started recording the birds singing on the Downs, creating a remarkable collection of recordings. In tonight’s talk Ed Drewitt, will use them to show how the peak dawn chorus develops during the course of an hour and how birds change their singing behaviour throughout the year. Tim will also share how he went about making the recordings and what his personal highlights were.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 26th March
Learning birdsong on the Downs (Course)
The Downs are home to a wide range of birds and a great place to learn how to identify them from their song. After a multimedia introduction to the birds you’re likely to see and hear Ed Drewitt will lead you on a walk to identify birds ‘in the field’.
10.00am - 3.30pm, £30.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 2nd April
Gorge-ous spring plants (Walk)
The Avon Gorge is internationally important for its rare and interesting plants. Discover spring-flowering rarities on a scramble around the Avon Gorge with local botanist Libby Houston.
10.00am - 12.00pm, £7.50
NB: There are very, very steep slopes, uneven ground and steps on this walk.
In the Avon Gorge. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call0117 4285300.
Sunday 3rd April
Early birds and bacon butties walk (with a veggie or vegan option)
Join us for an early morning walk with bird expert Michael Johnson. After learning how to identify birds on the Downs, it’s back to the Zoo for a spot of breakfast.
6.00am - 8.30am Note the early start time!
£15.00 (includes a bacon bap, egg butty or vegan bap plus tea or coffee).
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Thursday 14th April
Feathered friends (Children’s event for 8 – 12 year olds)
The Downs are a brilliant place for birds from blue tits and blackbirds through to our super speedy peregrine falcons. On this egg-stra special Easter event, have fun learning to identify and discover more about our feathered friends. In the afternoon, make an amazing bird mask to take home.
Drop off children at 10am and pick them up at 3.30pm
£20.00 per child
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Saturday 30th April
Spring on the Downs in batik (Course)
Come and learn the art of batik (using hot wax and fabric dyes) to create an individual picture inspired by wildlife found on the Downs in spring. Artist Jo Whiteland will show you how to design your picture, transfer to fabric and apply the wax and dyes to build up colour and texture before dipping in a dye bath to create the characteristic batik crackle effect.
10.00am - 4.30pm, £50.00 (includes materials).
Suitable for ages 11+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult).
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call0117 4285300.
Thursday 5th May
Butterfly Britain (Talk)
Butterflies have been collected and studied in Britain for hundreds of years and their decline over recent times has been dramatic. Enjoy Oliver Smart’s stunning photographs as he takes you on a journey to see many of the resident butterfly species of these isles. His talk will cover the behaviour, habitats and the relationships with other plants and animals that make these little insects so uniquely special.
7.00pm - 8.00pm, £6.00
At Bristol Zoo Gardens. Venue accessible to wheelchair users.
Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Friday 13th May
Music with Mummy® on the Downs (For children under 4 years old)
Let’s make some melodious music on the Downs. Decorate and play a shaker, sing, dance and meet some wildlife puppets with Fiona from the well known ‘Music with Mummy®’ franchise (of course daddies, grandparents or any other responsible adults are equally welcome!).
10.00am - 11.00am, £5.00 per child (babies under 1 and adults can come for free!)
On the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
Sunday 15th May
Writing the Downs (Course)
The Downs are haunted by a rich human and ecological history. In this creative writing workshop led by Poet in Residence, Dr John Wedgwood Clarke, we’ll explore the people and flora and fauna that have shaped its distinctive landscape and think about how the traces of the past can inform writing our own experiences of the Downs.
10.30am – 4.00pm, £25.00
Run in conjunction with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge and funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council via the Wastes and Strays project www.research.ncl.ac.uk/wastesandstrays .The event consists of a guided walk on the Downs in the morning and an indoor writing workshop in the afternoon.
At Bristol Zoo Gardens and on the Downs. Book Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project events online at bristolzoo.org.uk/all-events or call 0117 4285300.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is a partnership of Bristol City Council, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Natural England, University of Bristol, the Society of Merchant Venturers, Downs Committee,
Bristol Zoological Society, National Trust and Forestry England.
We also work in partnership with the Friends of the Downs and Avon Gorge.
The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is working to secure the outstanding wildlife interest of the Avon Gorge, Clifton Down, Durdham Down and Leigh Woods, as well as raising awareness and understanding of this unique location and its importance for people and wildlife.
Mandy Leivers,
Avon Gorge & Downs Biodiversity Education Manager,
Learning Department,
Bristol Zoo Gardens,
Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA
Tel: 0117 9030609 / 0117 4285460
e-mail: [email protected]
www.avongorge.org.uk www.facebook.com/avongorge www.bristolzoo.org.uk
_________________________________________________________________
Two new Deep Litter clearing events for January 2022:
As promised at the last event in our Wombling Calendar for 2021 we will be litter-picking on the regular timetabled date of Saturday January 29th but, in addition an extra outing is proposed for Saturday January 15th.
Details are outlined below. Volunteers are requested to sign up for either or both dates in the usual way by contacting me be eMail at [email protected] or by telephone at 0117 924 9435
Date: 15.1.22
Time: 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point: Extension to top of Parry’s Lane now used as a HGV and Coach Park but which should accommodate our small number of vehicles.
Target Area(s): From Clay Pit Road Traffic Lights to Wills Hall northwards to St. Monica’s and through the Granny Downs.
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT IF THERE IS MUCH RAIN BETWEEN NOW AND JAN 15TH. PARTS OF THE GRANNY DOWNS CAN BECOME WATERLOGGED AND FOOTWEAR MIGHT NEED TO BE SELECTED WITH THIS IN MIND.
Date: 29.1.22
Time: 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point: On Ladies Mile where it intersects with the tarmac path linking Worrall Road with Ivywell Road.
Target Area: Clifton Down to the East of Ladies mile from the tarmac path to Fountains Hill including Zoo Banks.
Timothy and I look forward to meeting up with as many of you as can make it on either or both of these dates and send our best wishes for the New Year.
Take care and Kind regards,
Martin (Collins) and Timothy (Dowling)
___________________________________________
NOTICE
DEER LITTER CLEARANCE: December 4th
Having consulted with last weekend's volunteers, I have decided to change the November cancellation to a postponement.
Details will be as for November 27th except for one.
On Timothy's suggestion to get closer to our starting point and to avoid having to cross Bridge Valley Road :
Meeting Point : NOT FOUNTAINS HILL but beside the triangle of greensward adjacent to the Lord Mayors Residence. This is the extension of Clifton Down which makes up 2 sides of the triangle. Apparently, on Saturdays parking here is free!
Thank you
Martin
_________________________________________
FOD+AG November Deep Litter Clearance
Next Deep litter clear.
Date : 27th November 2021
Time : 10.00 - 11.30 am
Meeting Point : Fountains Hill
Target Area : Woodland Edge from Bridge Valley Road along the Promenade to Observatory Hill
Please sign up in the usual way with Martin at <[email protected]> or on 0117 924 9435.
Kind regards,
Martin
____________________________________________
FOD+AG October Deep Litter Clearance
The arrangements for this months DLC are as follows:
Date : Saturday October 30th
Time : 10.00 – 11.30am
Meeting Point : Western side of Ladies Mile adjacent to parking bays closest to the
Junction with Circular Road
Target Area : South of tarmac path linking Ivywell Road to Ladies Mile including
the wildflower Meadow and the parallel strip to the South of Circular
Road back to where we ended the September DLC.
In preparation please :
1. Sign up in the usual way at [email protected] or 01179249435
2 Check weather on the day and beforehand to choose clothing and footwear
appropriate to the conditions
3 If you are a first time volunteer let me know so that I can send you copies of
the H&S protocols within which we work ,and obtain information needed to ensure you are covered by the Insurance Policy provided by BCC.
We send kind regards look forward to meeting up on the 30th
Martin (Collins)
________________________________________________________
FOD+AG’s First Deep Litter Clearance of the 2021 – 2022 Season
For all potential volunteers out there waiting with bated breath for this announcement, your patience has been rewarded. We will begin our wombling activities again on Saturday September 25th – see below for details.
It being the first session following much heavier use of the Downs during the summer and also after the recent Music Event there, we will target the area in the far south west corner of our patch known as Ash Wood. That is where we will meet, although the reach of our litter picking will be determined by the number of volunteers who turn up! To ensure that we can equip you all and to plan a route, it is most important that you sign up in advance in the normal way
By eMail [email protected] or telephone 0117 924 9435.
DATE : Saturday 25th September
TIME : 10.00am – 11.30am
LOCATION : Western-most grassy area variously known as being adjacent to Ash Wood, the Sea Walls Toilet block or the Ice Cream Van!
PREPARATION :
1, (re)-familiarise yourself with the Health and Safety protocols within in which, for insurance purposes, we operate – for new recruits, you will receive a copy of these when you sign up: you will also be asked for contact details of a relative or close friend, in case of emergency on site; and you will be asked to arrive on site at 9.45 on the day of session with us for a short introduction to H&S by Timothy Dowling.
2. Please note weather conditions on the day and for the week before to ensure that you are appropriately clothed and particularly shod for the activity.
We will look forward to meeting up again or for the first time in a fortnight’s time. Until then we send our thanks and kind regards,
Martin Collins (DLC Coordinator)
________________________________
Event invitation: Tuesday 21st September - St Christopher’s design workshop
I am writing to you on behalf of the development partnership that is preparing proposals for a new
ultra-sustainable Extra Care community on the former St Christopher’s site in Westbury Park.
Following our initial engagement with the local community earlier this year, we would like to invite
you to an interactive workshop-style session to discuss the emerging proposals for the site.
The aim of the workshops is to work with neighbours and other interested parties to develop a deeper
understanding of the St Christopher’s site, the character of the local area and to help shape the
emerging proposals. Discussions will focus on a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, scale,
massing and layout.
Please note the workshops are not intended as a conventional exhibition and the format will be more
informal and participative, and will involve working in small groups. Once the proposals are further
developed, we will hold a more conventional drop-in exhibition open to all where anybody will be able
to view the plans in more detail and respond more formally.
We are holding two workshop sessions at St Alban’s Church on Tuesday 21 September, the first from
3 - 5pm and then from 6 - 8pm.
In order to manage the number of attendees and ensure that the sessions are as valuable as possible,
we are asking people who would like to participate in the workshops to sign up in advance by either
calling our freephone number 0800 148 8911 or emailing us on [email protected].
The content of the workshops will be the same in both sessions so please only book onto one session
as there is a limit on attendees. We will be operating bookings on a first come first served basis.
ATTEND A DESIGN WORKSHOP TO DISCUSS THE FUTURE OF THE
ST CHRISTOPHER’S SITE
Date: Tuesday 21st September 2021 at 3pm - 5pm OR 6pm - 8pm
Location: St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Avenue, Bristol, BS6 7NS
Please contact the team to book your preferred session
________________________________________________________
I am writing to you on behalf of the development partnership that is preparing proposals for a new
ultra-sustainable Extra Care community on the former St Christopher’s site in Westbury Park.
Following our initial engagement with the local community earlier this year, we would like to invite
you to an interactive workshop-style session to discuss the emerging proposals for the site.
The aim of the workshops is to work with neighbours and other interested parties to develop a deeper
understanding of the St Christopher’s site, the character of the local area and to help shape the
emerging proposals. Discussions will focus on a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, scale,
massing and layout.
Please note the workshops are not intended as a conventional exhibition and the format will be more
informal and participative, and will involve working in small groups. Once the proposals are further
developed, we will hold a more conventional drop-in exhibition open to all where anybody will be able
to view the plans in more detail and respond more formally.
We are holding two workshop sessions at St Alban’s Church on Tuesday 21 September, the first from
3 - 5pm and then from 6 - 8pm.
In order to manage the number of attendees and ensure that the sessions are as valuable as possible,
we are asking people who would like to participate in the workshops to sign up in advance by either
calling our freephone number 0800 148 8911 or emailing us on [email protected].
The content of the workshops will be the same in both sessions so please only book onto one session
as there is a limit on attendees. We will be operating bookings on a first come first served basis.
ATTEND A DESIGN WORKSHOP TO DISCUSS THE FUTURE OF THE
ST CHRISTOPHER’S SITE
Date: Tuesday 21st September 2021 at 3pm - 5pm OR 6pm - 8pm
Location: St Alban’s Church, Bayswater Avenue, Bristol, BS6 7NS
Please contact the team to book your preferred session
________________________________________________________
Events on the Downs
11.30 -1.00 Sunday 11th July "Wildflowers" Walktalks with local ecologist Neill Talbot: A small charge of £10.00 will be made for each. To register please contact Robin using the form below.
11.30 - 1.00 Sunday 20th June "Grasses" Walktalks with local ecologist Neill Talbot: A small charge of £10.00 will be made for each. To register please contact Robin using the form below.
________________________________
MEADOW MAKER
A New Collection by Sally Stafford
3rd – 30th July
It is estimated that 97% of Britain’s wild flower meadows have vanished since the 1930s, and the few that remain are often vulnerable, together with the numerous creatures that depend on them, such as vital pollinators, butterflies, birds and small mammals. The tireless work of conservation charities such as Plantlife has never been more important.
Beginning on National Meadows Day, Saturday July 3rd, our latest exhibition is a celebration of these beautiful habitats, expressed through the encompassing mixed media paintings of Sally Stafford, who has long drawn inspiration from the intricate balance of living colours and changing textures that define unspoilt meadows.
Meadow Maker immerses the viewer in a rare and precious world that deserves to be cherished and protected by us all.
www.cliftoncontemporaryart.co.uk
i[email protected]
Clifton Contemporary Art
25 Portland Street
Clifton
Bristol
BS8 4JB
0117 3179713
_____________________________________
Next and last winter Litter collection
If you want to help the last session for this winter will be on:
March 27th, 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point: Above the designated parking bay on Fountains Hill, as for 27th February.
We will be targeting the areas along the Promenade and its woodland edge adjacent to the Gorge and Observatory Hill.
Please register with Martin as usual. Use the 'contact us' page on this site to reach him so that his email is kept safe.
Deep Litter Clearance
Date : Saturday February 27th 2021
Time : 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point : The open area on the south side of Fountains Hill above the the designated parking spaces along the wide curve of Fountains Hill. (as recently please collect equipment from the piles which you will find there and avoid the pavement and ts
the members of the public who might be walking/jogging/running there).
Target Area : Depending on the number of volunteers and thus the number of sub-groups into which it would be advisable to split for ease of social distancing, the locations to be cleared will include The north side of the Promenade., the south side and the woodland verge at the top of the Gorge, Observatory Hill and perhaps the west side of Bridge Valley Road.
As always please bring any equipment of your own if you have it to reduce the risks associated with sanitisation, but we will supply what is required to keep you safe. Wrap up warmly and come shod appropriately for conditions underfoot.
Please also register with me in the usual way in advance so that paperwork andequipment required will provide what is needed for everyone. Email at [email protected]
Thanks, and kind regards,
Martin
7.00pm Saturday 20th February 2021 Illustrated Zoom Talk: Butterflies of the Downs and Beyond. Last chance for members to register at [email protected]
10.00am - 11.30am Saturday 27th February 2021 Deep Litter Clearance Meeting Point : The open area on the south side of Fountains Hill above the designated parking spaces along the wide curve of Fountains Hill. (as recently please collect equipment from the piles which you will find there and avoid the pavement and its the members of the public who might be walking/jogging/ running there). Target Area : Depending on the number of volunteers and thus the number of sub-groups into which it would be advisable to split for ease of social distancing, the locations to be cleared will include The north side of the Promenade., the south side and the woodland verge at the top of the Gorge, Observatory Hill and perhaps the west side of Bridge Valley Road. As always please bring any equipment of your own if you have it to reduce the risks associated with sanitisation, but we will supply what is required to keep you safe. Wrap up warmly and come shod appropriately for conditions underfoot. Please also register with me using the below forms in advance so that paperwork and equipment required will provide what is needed for everyone. Thanks, and kind regards, Martin
9.30 am Sunday 7th March 2021 Dead Hedging working party If you are interested in maintaining the hurdles along the circular road and learn new skills register with Robin using the form below.
Regular Activities
If you are interested in being involved when our activities resume please feel free to contact us for more details using the forms at the bottom of the page.
Deep litter picking
FODAG volunteers and friends forage for litter one Saturday morning of the month during the winter from 10 am to 12 pm. If you would like to join the merry band please contact Martin for details.
Butterfly Survey
Friends have actively surveyed the butterfly population of the downs over the last 6 years adding to national data. (data is held on our website). If you are interested in being involved please contact Martin on the form below.
Goat and Gully Monitoring
A group of Friends keep a regular eye on the Goats in the Gully, making sure they are happy and healthy. Also we are looking to create a similar group who take note of the health of the Victorian steps and it's surroundings. If you would like to find out more or to get involved please contact Martin on the form below.
Conservation Sundays
The second Sunday in the Month (this sometimes changes). Doing a range of activities and often asked to bring gloves, loppers and secateurs if possible. please register an interest with Robin on the form below.
Dead hedging
the dead hedge working party work to build and maintain the dead hedges. If you are interested in being involved please contact Robin on the form below.
11.30 -1.00 Sunday 11th July "Wildflowers" Walktalks with local ecologist Neill Talbot: A small charge of £10.00 will be made for each. To register please contact Robin using the form below.
11.30 - 1.00 Sunday 20th June "Grasses" Walktalks with local ecologist Neill Talbot: A small charge of £10.00 will be made for each. To register please contact Robin using the form below.
________________________________
MEADOW MAKER
A New Collection by Sally Stafford
3rd – 30th July
It is estimated that 97% of Britain’s wild flower meadows have vanished since the 1930s, and the few that remain are often vulnerable, together with the numerous creatures that depend on them, such as vital pollinators, butterflies, birds and small mammals. The tireless work of conservation charities such as Plantlife has never been more important.
Beginning on National Meadows Day, Saturday July 3rd, our latest exhibition is a celebration of these beautiful habitats, expressed through the encompassing mixed media paintings of Sally Stafford, who has long drawn inspiration from the intricate balance of living colours and changing textures that define unspoilt meadows.
Meadow Maker immerses the viewer in a rare and precious world that deserves to be cherished and protected by us all.
www.cliftoncontemporaryart.co.uk
i[email protected]
Clifton Contemporary Art
25 Portland Street
Clifton
Bristol
BS8 4JB
0117 3179713
_____________________________________
Next and last winter Litter collection
If you want to help the last session for this winter will be on:
March 27th, 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point: Above the designated parking bay on Fountains Hill, as for 27th February.
We will be targeting the areas along the Promenade and its woodland edge adjacent to the Gorge and Observatory Hill.
Please register with Martin as usual. Use the 'contact us' page on this site to reach him so that his email is kept safe.
Deep Litter Clearance
Date : Saturday February 27th 2021
Time : 10.00am - 11.30am
Meeting Point : The open area on the south side of Fountains Hill above the the designated parking spaces along the wide curve of Fountains Hill. (as recently please collect equipment from the piles which you will find there and avoid the pavement and ts
the members of the public who might be walking/jogging/running there).
Target Area : Depending on the number of volunteers and thus the number of sub-groups into which it would be advisable to split for ease of social distancing, the locations to be cleared will include The north side of the Promenade., the south side and the woodland verge at the top of the Gorge, Observatory Hill and perhaps the west side of Bridge Valley Road.
As always please bring any equipment of your own if you have it to reduce the risks associated with sanitisation, but we will supply what is required to keep you safe. Wrap up warmly and come shod appropriately for conditions underfoot.
Please also register with me in the usual way in advance so that paperwork andequipment required will provide what is needed for everyone. Email at [email protected]
Thanks, and kind regards,
Martin
7.00pm Saturday 20th February 2021 Illustrated Zoom Talk: Butterflies of the Downs and Beyond. Last chance for members to register at [email protected]
10.00am - 11.30am Saturday 27th February 2021 Deep Litter Clearance Meeting Point : The open area on the south side of Fountains Hill above the designated parking spaces along the wide curve of Fountains Hill. (as recently please collect equipment from the piles which you will find there and avoid the pavement and its the members of the public who might be walking/jogging/ running there). Target Area : Depending on the number of volunteers and thus the number of sub-groups into which it would be advisable to split for ease of social distancing, the locations to be cleared will include The north side of the Promenade., the south side and the woodland verge at the top of the Gorge, Observatory Hill and perhaps the west side of Bridge Valley Road. As always please bring any equipment of your own if you have it to reduce the risks associated with sanitisation, but we will supply what is required to keep you safe. Wrap up warmly and come shod appropriately for conditions underfoot. Please also register with me using the below forms in advance so that paperwork and equipment required will provide what is needed for everyone. Thanks, and kind regards, Martin
9.30 am Sunday 7th March 2021 Dead Hedging working party If you are interested in maintaining the hurdles along the circular road and learn new skills register with Robin using the form below.
Regular Activities
If you are interested in being involved when our activities resume please feel free to contact us for more details using the forms at the bottom of the page.
Deep litter picking
FODAG volunteers and friends forage for litter one Saturday morning of the month during the winter from 10 am to 12 pm. If you would like to join the merry band please contact Martin for details.
Butterfly Survey
Friends have actively surveyed the butterfly population of the downs over the last 6 years adding to national data. (data is held on our website). If you are interested in being involved please contact Martin on the form below.
Goat and Gully Monitoring
A group of Friends keep a regular eye on the Goats in the Gully, making sure they are happy and healthy. Also we are looking to create a similar group who take note of the health of the Victorian steps and it's surroundings. If you would like to find out more or to get involved please contact Martin on the form below.
Conservation Sundays
The second Sunday in the Month (this sometimes changes). Doing a range of activities and often asked to bring gloves, loppers and secateurs if possible. please register an interest with Robin on the form below.
Dead hedging
the dead hedge working party work to build and maintain the dead hedges. If you are interested in being involved please contact Robin on the form below.