Here we take a look at the people who are from places like Southmead, Westbury and Henleaze
Bristol continues to surprise us with its wealth of talent as we delve into our latest picture gallery of famous faces, this time from the north west of Bristol and the market town of Thornbury.
Featuring some of the best schools in the region, it’s perhaps not a surprise to see so many young people go on and achieve big things. But there are also some success stories from those who have had a more challenging upbringing.
Arguably the most famous face to come out of north west Bristol is Cary Grant, who was born in Horfield in 1904. Aged just 10, his mother was sent to Bristol Insane Asylum , where he rescued her from 20 years later. He started his acting life at Bristol Hippodrome and joined a travelling troupe of comedians to go to America. A life-sized bronze statue of Cary Grant sits on Bristol's Millennium Square. The statue was unveiled in December 2001 by Grant's widow Barbara Jaynes to commemorate the Bristol-born actor's achievements.
6. Emily Webley-Smith, tennis player
Emily Webley-Smith is a professional tennis player who has reached the second round of Wimbledon on one occasion in 2004. She achieved a career-high ranking of 240 in 2011. She was born in Thornbury and was introduced to tennis while playing swingball in her garden. She has been a member at Almondsbury Tennis Club and trained at Virgin Active in Gloucester.
7. Naomi Wilkinson, TV presenter
The picture shows Naomi ahead of starring in the Christmas pantomime of Cinderella at New Wimbledon Theatre in 2005 - but you will know here better from presenting children’s Channel 5 show Milkshake! She grew up in Henleaze in Bristol and started her career at Butlin’s where she was a Redcoat.
8. Joel Dommett, television presenter
Anyone who watches The Masked Singer will know Joel for presenting the popular show - he also hosted the 2021 National Television Awards ceremony. He’s also appeared on I’m a Celebrity, Live in Chelsea and Impractical Jokers. And it all started in Rockhampton, near Thornbury, where Joe was raised. He attended The Castle School and moved to London aged 19.
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