Bristol News by HANA - Edition 35
Bristol Bites: Both The Emergency Services And Love Save The Day
There is much to be thankful for as Bristol gears up for the bank holiday weekend. Despite a horrific fire rampaging across the roof of St Michael’s Hospital, no lives were lost, and not even a single injury was reported. All credit to the staff, patients (mothers-to-be and babies) and emergency services for diverting a disaster.
The weather forecast is mixed, but the entertainment is turned up to 11. Love Saves The Day returns to Ashton Court. It's not quite Glastonbury, but it's one of the most respected festivals on the summer circuit. It’s a big, colourful event that blends dance music, live acts, and a strong community vibe, with a distinctly Bristolian feel—equal parts creative, inclusive, and a bit hedonistic. Expect house, drum and bass, techno, reggae, hip-hop, and live bands.
The atmosphere is vibrant and laid-back, with plenty of food stalls (often local and independent), creative art installations, and themed stages. It celebrates Bristol’s culture: music, street art, and a progressive spirit.
Earplugs are essential; suitable wet-weather clothing: optional.
Mark Riley, CEO Hana News
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Databox
Always late
Bristol is two degrees west of Greenwich
Therefore, Bristol is technically 10 minutes behind Greenwich
Before adopting standardised time across the UK on 14 September 1852, Bristol operated on its own local time. The Exchange building on Corn Street still displays two clocks: one for London time (in black) and one for Bristol time (in red), serving as a charming reminder of this unique piece of Bristol’s history
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Hyper-local news articles
St Michael's Hospital fire Bristol: Pregnant women moved to safety BBC - May 22, 2025 A significant fire involving solar panels broke out on the roof of St Michael's Hospital maternity unit in Bristol, leading to the evacuation of pregnant women and newborns, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. The fire was swiftly extinguished within an hour, allowing the hospital to reopen later that evening, with ongoing investigations into the cause. |
Three Bristol WWII veterans recognised for service in ceremony with UK, France consuls Three local veterans in Bristol were honoured at a special event titled "Connecticut World..." attended by state leaders and Consul Generals from the UK and France. The event emphasised the importance of recognising their sacrifices and fostering international relationships. The ceremony celebrated shared values of bravery and dedication, reminding the community of the ongoing commitment to honour the legacy of military service. |
Moon’s mysterious wobbling atmosphere like a gyroscope, new research suggests Recent research from the Cassini-Huygens mission reveals that Titan's atmosphere wobbles like a gyroscope, shifting over its lengthy seasonal cycle and presenting new mysteries about atmospheric physics. This discovery is crucial for NASA's upcoming Dragonfly mission, as it highlights Titan's unique climate systems and deepens our understanding of atmospheric dynamics across celestial bodies. |
Top UK klezmer group has Bristol gig cancelled due to Israeli members Jewish News - May 21, 2025 Oi Va Voi, the UK klezmer band, faced a concert cancellation at Bristol's Strange Brew venue due to pressure from activist groups over some members' Israeli heritage, sparking accusations of discriminatory censorship in the arts. The venue defended its decision as a response to politically sensitive artwork, insisting it was not based on ethnicity, while critics condemned the move as cowardly discrimination. |
Bristol protestors released after demo and counter-rally BBC News - May 17, 2025 Three of the five individuals arrested during a Bristol protest related to a UKIP demonstration advocating for "mass deportations" have been released, with two receiving out-of-court disposals. The event saw about 100 UKIP supporters and 250 counter-protesters, prompting police to maintain order with vans and horses at the Cenotaph. |
Credit:YTL
The Bristol schemes that can 'really move the dial on UK growth' – as long as transport links are improved Yahoo News - May 21, 2025 Bristol's ambitious regeneration projects, Temple Quarter and Brabazon, promise to reshape the South West economy with thousands of new homes and a major arena, supported by significant investment from YTL. As local leaders emphasise the importance of transport improvements and collaboration, they aim to tackle housing challenges while enhancing connectivity around key areas like Temple Meads station. |
1.5°C Paris Climate Agreement target too high for polar ice sheets and sea level rise Bristol - May 20, 2025 A new study from Durham University and the University of Bristol warns that to avert severe losses from polar ice sheets and accelerated sea level rise, global warming should be limited to just 1°C above pre-industrial levels, rather than the commonly discussed 1.5°C. The research highlights that current ice loss rates are unprecedented, posing existential threats to millions living near sea level and emphasising the urgent need for policymakers to act in alignment with the Paris Agreement. |
Sport
Bristol Bears
The Bears recently secured a notable 36-14 win over Bath Rugby, but their play-off hopes were dented after a defeat to Sale. The eToro prediction market has Bears on 61% probability to make the playoffs. The club has been active in the transfer market, signing new players and extending contracts, including a recent extension for Lane and Bevan, Jasmine & Alisha Joyce-Butchers. The Bears are aiming to strengthen their squad for the next Premiership season
Bristol City
The club recently concluded their Championship play-off campaign, exiting after a 6-0 aggregate defeat to Sheffield United. Despite the loss, fans and pundits have praised the team for exceeding expectations this season, finishing sixth in the league and reaching the play-offs with one of the smallest budgets in the division. There is optimism about the future under manager Liam Manning, with hopes that smart summer additions could make them contenders for promotion next season.
Yu Hirakawa Call-Up: Bristol City forward Yu Hirakawa has been called up to Japan's senior national team for the first time. The 24-year-old, who joined City permanently from Machida Zelvia in February, will join Japan for their final World Cup qualifying matches against Australia and Indonesia next month
Bristol Rovers
The club faces a rebuild after being relegated to League Two following three seasons in League One. There is a focus on restructuring the squad over the summer to prepare for the upcoming campaign.
Cricket
Gloucestershire Cricket: The county side, based at the County Ground in Ashley Down, started the 2025 season strongly after their T20 Blast triumph last year. Cameron Bancroft has been a key figure since rejoining the squad in 2024, and the team is set to face Sussex Sharks in the semi-final at Edgbaston. Zaman Akhter has also signed a one-year contract extension.
Running
Great Bristol Run 2025: Over 24,000 runners participated in this year's event, highlighting the city's vibrant running community and the popularity of mass participation sports in Bristol
Property news
News | Melburg and TPG Angelo Gordon get Bristol student homes Gateway 2 all-clear Costar - Melburg Capital and TPG Angelo Gordon have secured Gateway 2 approval for their real estate project, a key milestone that confirms regulatory compliance and paves the way for future development phases aimed at boosting the local economy. More details on the project's scope and timeline will be shared as it progresses. |
Bristol homes soar by more than £30,000 in a year Bristol's property market is booming, with prices soaring by over £30,000, making it a standout performer in the housing landscape. This surge reflects strong demand driven by economic growth and an influx of residents, attracting buyers and investors alike. |
Quirky Bristol cafe in former Edwardian toilets on the market Yahoo News - May 19, 2025 The Cloakroom, a unique café in Bristol housed in a former Edwardian toilet, is up for sale, offering a quirky dining experience with fresh food and creative decor that celebrates its history. Located near the University of Bristol, this Grade II listed building features original elements like a checkerboard floor and repurposed fixtures, making it a standout opportunity for potential buyers. |
Nearly a quarter of Gen Z and Millennials aspire to have property just like their own parents' Bristol Live - May 21, 2025 A recent poll reveals that nearly a quarter of Gen Z and Millennials in the UK aspire to own homes similar to their parents', prioritising functionality and comfort over luxury. With 91% emphasising layouts that support daily activities, young Brits are also embracing home improvement hacks, reflecting a desire for personalised spaces that evoke a sense of familiarity and safety. |
The new wave of property developers in the UK: Who’s shaping the future? Luxury Lifestyle Magazine - Luxury Lifestyle Magazine - May 15, 2025 The UK housing market is undergoing a transformative shift towards diverse, sustainable development models, with boutique developers and institutional build-to-rent operators leading the charge. As consumer preferences evolve, innovative approaches that prioritize community integration, climate resilience, and quality design are reshaping the landscape, offering new opportunities amidst growing complexities. |
The Bristol schemes that can 'really move the dial on UK growth' – as long as transport links are improved Yahoo News - May 21, 2025 Bristol's Temple Quarter and Brabazon regeneration projects are poised to transform the South West economy, featuring thousands of new homes and a major arena at the former Filton Airfield, with backing from Malaysian investment. As local leaders emphasize the need for improved transport and housing solutions, these initiatives aim to create vibrant communities while driving growth in the region. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Sundowners at The White Lion Terrace
All photos are credited to Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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