Bristol News by HANA - Edition 59
Bristol Bites: A poppy for your thoughts 🌺
Bristol Bites: A poppy for your thoughts 🌺
Remembrance Sunday is almost upon us. From Bristol to Bradford to Bridlington and all points in between, people of these illustrious isles will gather, donned with a simple red flower, to pay their respects. To the fallen. To those who survived a horrific conflict. To the land girls who literally dug us to victory.
It is the most important day in my calendar. Both my grandfathers fought in the Second World War: the Welshman in the Battle of the Atlantic, the Englishman in North Africa. Many of you will have similar stories.
Today’s Data Box reveals Bristol’s contribution to the defence of our nation. Nearly 10,000 people from Bristol aged over 16 have served in our armed forces. This means that 2.4% of Bristolians are veterans. That’s more than two in one hundred. Sunday is the day to commemorate and celebrate their efforts on our behalf. Our kids should learn that this is our true red-letter day. Not hellish Hallowe’en.
Feel free to skip our Sports Section. It’s all bad news. Supporting the Bears, the Robins and the Pirates can be a labour of love.
Crime stories loom large. Sorry. But the news is the news. And it’s our job to report upon it.
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
Bristol Vets
The total number of people aged 16 years and over who had previously served in the UK armed forces in Bristol stood at 9,491.
• This means that 2.4% of Bristol's population aged 16 and over are veterans.
• Of the total veteran population in Bristol:
◦ 6,450 people (1.7%) served in the regular UK armed forces.
◦ 2,623 people (0.7%) served in the reserve UK armed forces.
◦ 418 people (0.1%) served in both the regular and reserve forces.
The neighbourhood with the highest proportion of veterans is Westbury-on-Trym at 4.4% of all people aged 16 and over.
For veterans looking for connection and support, the Bristol Veterans’ Hub operates a monthly ‘one-stop shop’ at Bedminster Cricket Club. This initiative, driven by organisations like Help for Heroes, Op Courage (NHS mental health service), and Veterans UK, celebrated a successful first year in August 2023. The hub averages about a dozen veterans at each meeting, providing a space to learn about available support and meet contemporaries. The hub meets on the final Thursday of the month, from 10 am to 3 pm.
Scroll down for property news and more things to do in Bristol this weekend…
Best Articles From Bristol This Week
as chosen by our editors
Bristol Airport reveals plans to expand onto Felton Common Bbc - November 3, 2025 Bristol Airport plans to extend its runway to enable long-haul flights, which will involve taking over part of Felton Common for landing lights and fencing, sparking criticism from the Bristol Airport Action Network over potential community space reduction and safety concerns. A public consultation is set to run from November 7 to December 19, as the airport assures that its design complies with safety standards. |
Brutal attack outside Bristol pub leaves woman in hospital Yahoo News - November 4, 2025 A woman in her early 60s was hospitalised after suffering a deep cut to her forehead during a verbal altercation outside a pub in Bristol on October 16. Avon and Somerset Police are investigating the assault, seeking information about a woman captured on CCTV who may be connected to the incident. |
Bristol college lockdown as firearms police respond and teenager arrested The Mirror - November 4, 2025 A bomb threat at St Brendan's Sixth Form College in Bristol led to a swift evacuation and police response, ultimately deemed not credible, with no injuries reported. A 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of making a hoax threat as authorities ensured the safety of students and staff. |
Bristol hosts first padel tournament for deaf and hard of hearing people BBC News - November 2, 2025 Bristol is set to host the inaugural Lawn & Tennis Association-approved tournament for deaf and hard of hearing individuals at Rocket Padel, featuring 52 participants from across the UK. Mark Gill from the Centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People highlights padel's potential to empower the deaf community and calls for coaches to undergo deaf awareness training to foster inclusivity in this rapidly growing sport. |
Bristol Airbus to benefit from VietJet order for new planes Bbc - October 30, 2025 VietJet's landmark order of 100 Airbus A321neo aircraft, confirmed during a meeting between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Vietnamese General Secretary To Lam, will bolster the UK aerospace sector by supporting thousands of jobs and investment in key facilities like Rolls Royce in Derby. This deal not only safeguards skilled employment but also promotes innovation and decarbonization in aviation. |
Mum-of-two died after falling over 'trip hazard' at Bristol hospital Yahoo News - November 4, 2025 The family of Lorna Loxton, who died following a fall caused by her walker getting stuck on a metal flap at the Bristol Royal Infirmary, is preparing to take legal action against the hospital as a coroner investigates her death. Highlighting the tragic circumstances, Lorna's children express their devastation and seek answers from the University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Trust regarding the safety measures in place for vulnerable patients. |
People catching the bus in all these Bristol areas can travel for free Yahoo News - November 2, 2025 Passengers in South Bristol can enjoy free travel on the 36 bus service from November 3 to November 9, connecting key areas and promoting local transport usage. This initiative, part of a broader effort funded by the Mayoral Combined Authority, aims to increase bus ridership following a significant rise in passengers since the service's launch. |
Discover Bristol's 19 most dangerous areas where the most crimes were reported in the past year Bristol's latest crime data reveals that St Paul's, Easton, and Bedminster are among the 19 neighbourhoods with the highest reported crime rates, experiencing significant incidents of violent crime, anti-social behaviour, and property-related offences. These areas highlight ongoing safety concerns within the city. |
Mum shares anguish as daughter dies days after being released from hospital BBC News - November 5, 2025 The mother of 19-year-old Lauren Roe, who died by suicide while under mental health care, has criticised the Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust for "significant failings" in her daughter's treatment, highlighting a troubling lack of support during her transition from child to adult services. Despite a history of severe mental health issues, Lauren was deemed capable of self-management and sent home after a serious suicide attempt, leading to tragic consequences less than a month later. |
Ex-headteacher, 47, sentenced after sexual offence Aol - November 5, 2025 Former Clifton High School headteacher Matthew Bennett has been sentenced to 200 hours of community service after pleading guilty to attempted sexual communication with a minor and placed on the sex offenders register for five years. The school’s chairman assured parents that immediate measures were taken to protect students following Bennett's arrest in August 2023. |
Bristol's 11 areas where residents fear crime affects their lives the least A recent BristolWorld report reveals that nearly 25% of Bristol residents feel crime significantly affects their daily lives, raising concerns about safety and community well-being. This growing anxiety may prompt calls for enhanced safety measures and community support initiatives to improve residents' sense of security. |
Bristol City Council tax typo costs authority £200,000 BBC News - November 4, 2025 Bristol City Council faced nearly £200,000 in costs to rectify a "typing mistake" on council tax bills, where police and fire service percentage increases were mistakenly swapped. In response to the error, the council has introduced new review measures to prevent future occurrences. |
Sport
From our sports desk:
Bristol Bears
Two defeats on the bounce to arch rivals Bath make for painful reading for Bears fans.
Last Saturday’s thrashing at the Rec was followed by a humiliating defeat at the hands of Bath in the Prem Cup. Least said, soonest mended.
Bristol City
A disastrous week for the Robins. A 5-1 thumping at the feet of Stoke City on Saturday was followed by a, frankly, unacceptable 1-0 defeat at home to Blackburn Rovers. City now lie seventh in the Championship table. Next up? Away to Watford tonight at 8pm.
Bristol Rovers
The Pirates laboured to a 2-1 away win over lowly Bromley in the FA Cup first round. Next up? Tomorrow (3pm) at The Mem against Gillingham in League 2.
Mark Sykes: Bristol City midfielder out with shin injury BBC Sport - November 5, 2025 Bristol City faces a tough challenge as Mark Sykes joins their injury list with a severe shin cut, sidelining him for two matches. Manager Gerhard Struber confirmed that the team is already dealing with 10 unavailable players, including Rob Atkinson, who is out until at least Christmas due to a hamstring injury. |
Bristol Bears confirm new hooker signing after naming insane 29-man unavailable list Bristol Live - November 6, 2025 Bristol Bears face a daunting challenge with 29 players sidelined due to injuries and international commitments, prompting the signing of former Northampton Saints hooker Nathan Langdon for their exhibition match against the Argentina XV. With a squad featuring 12 academy players and key stars like Ellis Genge and Louis Rees-Zammit away on duty, Director of Rugby Pat Lam is navigating a significant reshuffle ahead of the match at Ashton Gate. |
Blackburn Rovers boss fumes at Bristol City behaviour Lancashire Telegraph - November 5, 2025 Blackburn Rovers secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Bristol City, despite controversy over time-wasting accusations and tensions surrounding goalkeeper Toth's injury. As they gear up for a significant home match against Derby County, marking their 150-year celebrations, manager Ismael emphasizes the need to build on their recent momentum and improve their home performance. |
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Preview:Watford vs Bristol City - prediction, team news, lineups Sports Mole - November 5, 2025 Watford seeks a third consecutive unbeaten match in the Championship as they host Bristol City, who are struggling with injuries and form. With key player Imran Louza shining for the Hornets, Bristol City faces a tough challenge after back-to-back defeats and a depleted squad. |
Fan's voice: Scudamore's involvement at Bristol City can only be good BBC Sport - November 3, 2025 City faced a disappointing 5-1 defeat against Stoke, despite optimism from their recent winning streak, as critical errors and a slow start proved costly. In other news, former Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has joined City's board, bringing his expertise at a pivotal time for the club. |
Property news
Southampton’s The Joiners and The Croft in Bristol saved forever by “National Trust of venues” Music Venue Properties NME - November 6, 2025 Music Venue Properties has successfully saved The Joiners in Southampton and The Croft in Bristol, part of a broader initiative by Music Venue Trust to secure grassroots venues through community investment. With nearly £4 million raised, the campaign highlights the vital role these spaces play in nurturing local talent and fostering cultural connections, supported by notable artists advocating for the preservation of the music scene. |
News | Savills to relocate Bristol office to city landmark
Costar -
Savills is relocating its Bristol office to a larger space to support its growth ambitions and accommodate an expanding workforce, although details on the new location and timeline remain undisclosed. This strategic move aims to enhance operational capabilities and improve client service amidst rising demand for real estate services in the region.
Bristol Property Market 2025: Trends, Predictions & Expert Insights Sarah Clark Property Consultants - November 5, 2025 Bristol's property market is set for cautious optimism in 2025, with national firms forecasting steady growth and a potential decrease in the Bank of England base rate to stimulate transactions. Sarah Clark Property Consultants offers expert advice and free property valuations to help you navigate this promising market, whether you're buying or selling. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Bristol City Cenotaph & Parade
The official City of Bristol Remembrance Service will begin at the Cenotaph on Colston Avenue at 10:25 am on Sunday.
HMS Flying Fox will lead a parade from College Green to Colston Avenue, with military units, cadets, veterans, and related groups participating.
The national two-minute silence will be observed at 11:00 am, followed by wreath-laying and a short public service. Members of the public are invited to attend and reflect.
Expect road closures in the city centre from 5 am to 1 pm, especially near College Green, Colston Avenue, Baldwin Street, and surrounding roads.
Bristol Cathedral Service
Bristol Cathedral will hold a Remembrance service on Sunday, November 9, starting at 9:30 am, with military personnel and a parade joining from College Green.
Other Services and Events
All Saints Clifton will host a Remembrance Sunday Mass at 10:15 am on Sunday.
The Bristol Chamber Choir will present an evening of reflective music at Westbury-Try Chapel at 5 pm on Sunday.
An Armistice Day Remembrance Event will take place at Arnos Vale Cemetery, Soldiers' Corner War Memorial, on Tuesday, November 11, including readings and reflection.
A Concert of Remembrance hosted by the City of Bristol Brass Band will be held at Bristol Cathedral, marking significant anniversaries and Remembrance Day.
Music Events
Simple Things Festival 2025: One of the UK's leading contemporary music festivals is taking place, with performances across multiple venues, including Bristol Beacon. Notable acts include Dry Cleaning, These New Puritans, Rich(ard) Dawson, and Iglooghost, with events running from Saturday, November 8, through Sunday, November 9.
Fantazia: New Horizons: On Saturday, November 8, Document Bristol hosts a legendary rave event celebrating UK dance culture, with a lineup of electronic music pioneers and cutting-edge artists from 2 PM till midnight.
Club 22 – The Soul Club: For a night of soulful vibes, join the event at Club 22 on Saturday, November 8, from 9 PM to 2 AM, featuring soulful music and good times.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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