Bristol is a breeding ground for creativity with the city and surrounding towns providing the platform for seriously talented people, from artists to footballers to scientists.
Recently, we’ve taken a look at the famous people who went to school in Bristol, and the sports stars from the city, now we’re looking specifically at people who were born or/and grew up in the eastern suburbs of Bristol, and the town of Yate.
So, as well as this region having some of the most beautiful spots and important historical landmarks, we’ve discovered it has the people to back it up. Have a look through our list, and email us if you think we’re missing anyone. Email us at [email protected]
5. Josie Gibson - Yate
It only seems like yesterday when Josie came onto our screens and won the 11th series of Big Brother. She’s since forged a successful career and often appears on This Morning. Josie grew up in Yate and attended Brimsham Green School. Here she is, pictured, at the National Television Awards 2022 | Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images
6. Paul Potts - Kingswood
The singer became an instant star after he appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in 2007. His performance singing Nessun Dorma shocked judges Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan - and he went on to win the series. But it all began in Kingswood. The son of Roland and Yvonne, Paul was born in Kingswood and was raised in Fishponds. He attended St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School and sang with choirs at several Bristol churches. He later moved to Wales, and it was while he was living there that he appeared on Britain’s Got Talent. | Getty Images
7. Stephen Merchant - Hanham
Hanham Secondary School ex-pupil Stephen Merchant began his career performing stand-up at Bristol’s Comedy Box - today he’s a renowned writer, director and actor. Most recently, he brought the comedy drama The Outlaws, set in Bristol, to our screens. He is still involved in the city and is a support of a campaign to save an art deco cinema in Redfield. | Getty Images for IMDb
8. Ian Holloway - Kingswood
Bristol Rovers legend Ian Holloway was born in Kingswood, and grew up in Cadbury Heath, studying at Sir Bernard Lovell School in Oldland Common. And in 1980, he began his career as an apprentice at Rovers before making more than 400 appearances over three stints, including his final spell as player manager. He’s gone on to become a football celebrity and can now be seen on television working as a football pundit. | Getty Images