Bristol News by HANA - Edition 60
Bristol Bites: Marvellous & Special
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From our Editor:
It seems many of our cherished national institutions are crumbling. A Royal Family plagued by a pernicious former prince, now “styled” as Mr Mountbatten-Cake-Windsor-in-the-Soup. A BBC mired in mortal combat with President Trump, munching humble pie, after a catastrophic collapse in journalistic standards. An NHS riven by strikes and complaints about underfunding (even though it’s not underfunded - our armed forces are underfunded).
But there is at least one British institution upon which we can rely. Yes. It’s M&S.
Founded approximately a million years ago, Marks & Spencer has fed and clothed our nation forever.
And now M&S has laid down a massive marker in our beloved Bristol.
A giant flagship Marks and Spencer has opened in a former House of Fraser location.
The BBC reported that hundreds of people headed to Bristol's Cabot Circus shopping centre for the opening of the £21m department store, which includes a market-style food hall and a 200-seater café, as well as fashion and beauty departments.
Spanning three floors, the new store marks a return to Bristol city centre for M&S, almost four years after its Broadmead branch shut down.
The retailer believes the opening has created more than 100 jobs, with M&S regional manager Ali Ivery describing it as "one of the most modern stores in the UK".
Bristol is clearly the place to be. I do hope you’re reading Sir James Dyson. You and your overpriced vacuum cleaners are not missed after you ditched Brizzle in favour of a place no one knows.
Pull on the gardening gloves, lads (or should that be lags?). Green-led Bristol City Council wants criminals to be tasked with pulling up weeds from our pavements by hand to reduce the use of pesticides. Commendable.
One can only speculate what Norman Stanley Fletcher (AKA Ronnie Barker in Porridge) would make of it.
“With all due respect, Governor, I have very sensitive hands. So, can I suggest I receive a daily manicure with associated potions? Or, grudgingly, I would be prepared to accept a reduction in my sentence due to unpickable behaviour.”
Rhidian Wynn Davies | Editor in Chief
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Databox
Data Box: Bristol digital connectivity —Bristol is highly connected and super-fast. Perhaps the data below – at least partially – helps explain why our city is rapidly cementing its status as one of Britain’s premier tech hubs.
Gigabit-capable broadband: 94.1% in Bristol, outstripping a national local authority average of 86.3%
4G coverage: 100% in Bristol. The same as nationwide coverage.
5G coverage: 100% in Bristol, compared with a national local authority average of 95.6%
Source: ONS
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
Marks and Spencer opens flagship store in Bristol's Cabot Circus Bbc - Marks and Spencer has opened a new flagship store in the former House of Fraser location at Bristol's Cabot Circus, attracting hundreds of eager shoppers with its diverse offerings of clothing, home goods, and food. This grand opening highlights M&S's commitment to expanding its presence in key retail areas and adapting to changing consumer preferences, generating excitement within the local community. |
Crooks to remove weeds in Bristol by hand in switch away from herbicide Yahoo News - November 11, 2025 Bristol City Council is reducing its use of glyphosate herbicide, linked to cancer and bee harm, by employing community service workers for manual weed removal, despite the higher cost. This initiative aims to protect local ecology while allowing residents to opt out of chemical treatments, although some neighbourhoods have seen a return to glyphosate due to weed complaints. |
Bristol dog named after man who left more than £40k to charities Bbc - Paul Chandler's generous bequest of over £40,000 to two animal charities underscores his passion for animal welfare, promising to enhance rescue operations and care for animals in need. His legacy serves as an inspiring reminder for others to support causes they cherish. |
Joe Wicks returns to celebrate reopening of fire-hit school BBC News - November 13, 2025 Celebrity fitness coach Joe Wicks returned to Yatton Infants School in Somerset to celebrate its reopening after a fire, fulfilling his promise to the community by leading an uplifting workout session for the students. The school, which serves around 200 pupils, has been beautifully rebuilt, and Wicks was greeted with enthusiastic signs saying "welcome back Joe." |
Seven men charged in Bristol child sexual exploitation investigation The Guardian - November 12, 2025 Seven men have been charged with over 40 offences against 11 teenage girls in Bristol, including serious charges such as rape and sexual exploitation, following an investigation that began in November 2023. The accused are set to appear in court on December 17 as authorities emphasise the importance of community awareness and collaboration to combat child exploitation. |
How Northern Lights can be seen tonight from Bristol Yahoo News - November 13, 2025 The Northern Lights may be visible across the UK due to recent solar activity, with AuroraWatch UK issuing a red alert for sightings; however, thick clouds and rain are expected to obscure views in Bristol. Northern Scotland offers the best chance for glimpses of the aurora on Wednesday night, while visibility in the southeast remains uncertain. |
Bristol launches bold bid to become UK’s capital of civil rights Bristol24/7 - November 12, 2025 Bristol is vying to become the UK’s capital of civil rights, marked by the Talks4Change summit at the Wills Memorial Building, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Race Relations Act 1965 and honouring civil rights pioneer Paul Stephenson. The event brought together over 450 leaders to discuss racial equity and civic leadership, with highlights including performances, a procession, and tributes to key figures from the Bristol Bus Boycott. |
November: Modern crocodiles made snappy deals trading skull strength for streamlining Bristol - November 12, 2025 A new study reveals that modern crocodiles evolved flatter, weaker skulls for swimming efficiency, sacrificing biting power, as researchers compared fossilized skulls from extinct species to current ones. This research highlights the evolutionary flexibility of crocodyliforms over 200 million years, showcasing a fascinating transition from land to water adaptations. |
Bristol Gets the Bite: Honest Burgers Unlocks Its Latest UK Expansion Travel And Tour World - November 12, 2025 Honest Burgers has launched its second Southwest location at Cabot Circus, Bristol, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and a menu packed with favorites like the ‘OG’ Honest Burger and local collaborations, all while supporting the community. This opening is part of an ambitious plan for 12 new establishments across the UK, reinforcing Honest Burgers' reputation for high-quality British dining. |
'Bird flu outbreak' as dead swans found near lake BBC News - November 10, 2025 Experts are warning of a potential bird flu outbreak after five dead swans at Backwell Lake near Bristol tested positive for Avian Influenza, prompting Defra to enforce mandatory housing for poultry across England. With 26 cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 reported since October, the public is urged to keep dogs leashed and refrain from feeding wild waterfowl to help protect wildlife. |
Mystery as man attempts to enter properties at 2am Bristol Live - November 11, 2025 Police in East Bristol are investigating an attempted break-in on College Road in Fishponds, where a man was seen trying door handles around 2am on November 10. Local residents are urged to submit any CCTV or doorbell footage from the incident to assist with the investigation. |
Sport
Bristol Bears
The Autumn internationals mean the Bears can take a breather until their next Premiership match, away to Exeter on Saturday 22 November (3pm).
Bristol beat the Chiefs in the reverse fixture in October - a hard-fought 18-14 comeback win, thanks to 10 unanswered second half points at Ashton Gate.
The Bears lie 6th in the table, clinging on to the play-off places. But Exeter are in 3rd and on a roll. Expect a brutal West Country battle.
Bristol City
City have slipped to 8th in the Championship table after a 1-1 draw against Watford away.
Thus far, November has not been a kind month for the Robins. The 5-1 drubbing away to Stoke City was followed by a 1-0 defeat at the Gate against lowly Blackburn Rovers.
The international break means City don’t meet Swansea at the Gate until Saturday 22 November (3pm). After that, it’s another fixture against Welsh opponents - Wrexham away on Tuesday 26 November (7.45pm). Three points from the Swans and a point from the Dragons would represent a reasonable return.
Bristol Rovers
November has been a mixed bag for Rovers. A 2-1 away win against Bromley in the FA Cup 1st Round was followed by a 1-0 EFL Trophy victory versus Plymouth. But in between came a damaging 1-0 home defeat against Gillingham in League Two.
The Pirates are 17th in the table. Ok ish but only four points above the relegation places. A dreadful goal difference of -12 doesn’t help. However, the teams below Rovers are rubbish (park football standard) so they should survive the dreaded drop.
Property news
Plans for hundreds of homes in South Bristol take step forward Business Live - November 11, 2025 Allison Homes South West has submitted a Reserved Matters planning application for 510 new homes at Centric Parc in South Bristol, with at least 30% designated as affordable housing. The proposal includes community facilities, green spaces, and enhanced walking and cycling routes, aiming to create a sustainable neighborhood that meets local housing needs. |
The costs you need to remember when you're buying a house via shared ownership Explore a captivating collection of stunning homes, from elegant Georgian townhouses to unique campervans, each showcasing diverse architectural styles and creative designs. Whether you desire historic sophistication or cozy charm, this selection offers something for every taste and budget, inspiring your next living experience. |
BGO completes 235,000 sq ft Bristol shed letting UK Property Forums - November 10, 2025 Developer BGO and Equation Properties have secured Roper Rhodes as a tenant for their Matrix 49 scheme in Avonmouth, Bristol, with a 15-year lease for the Matrix 235 building at £9.75 per square foot. This state-of-the-art facility, featuring 18m eaves and extensive parking, was completed earlier this year at a cost of £21.6 million and boasts impressive sustainability ratings. |
Fury as housing developers pay £100m to avoid competition investigation Bristol Live - November 10, 2025 The UK's Competition and Markets Authority has ended its investigation into seven major housebuilders accused of colluding to manipulate the housing market, accepting a £100 million payment and behavioral commitments from the developers. Critics argue this deal raises ethical concerns about accountability and could undermine consumer rights amidst a housing crisis. |
Property expert issues 10-day warning to everyone hoping to move house this year Bristol Live - November 11, 2025 Act quickly if you want to move into a new home before Christmas, as contracts must be exchanged by November 21. With the property market slowing in December and removal companies fully booked, mid-week completions may offer a better chance to settle in before the holiday season. |
What’s on in Bristol this weekend?
Bristol Christmas Market: In Broadmead, explore over 40 festive stalls for gifts, crafts, treats, and enjoy live music at the Jäger Barn Bar. Look out for Santa and themed performers throughout the weekend.
Clifton LitFest: This literature festival features more than 70 speakers, including Kate Humble, Caroline Lucas, and Martin Parr, with events on storytelling, politics, photography, and memoir. It runs all weekend.
Totterdown Arts Trail (25th Anniversary): Bristol’s oldest arts trail invites you to tour hundreds of local artist studios and displays, with free workshops and community events across Totterdown.
MAMMA MIA! The Musical: The global hit musical lands in Bristol with performances over the weekend for ABBA fans of all ages.
Live Music and Gigs: Options include club nights at Thekla and Motion, "The Emo Fest" tribute night (Friday), and concerts at Bristol Beacon and St George’s Bristol. The Last Dinner Party also have a much-anticipated show at The Prospect Building.
All photos are credited to source articles or Mark Riley unless otherwise specified.
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