Epigram 340 - The Croft

Wellbeing Advice on how to support a friend in need | p. 8

Food Bristol hotspots for all meals of the day | p.11

Style A homeware guide for halls and uni life | p.14

Travel How green travel can be achieved | p.20

the croft

Away to Marseille

Students share their summer stories

the croft issue 1 | september 27 2019

Editor Daisy Farrow Deputy Editor Hendrike Rahtz Digital Editor Emma Holding

the croft editor’s no tes

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here’s something both equally exciting and daunting about starting something new. Whether it’s a new job, debuting a new haircut, or moving house, change can be scary. But it can also be legendary. And that’s what we’re aiming for with The Croft. They say ‘print is dead’, but we’re here to prove them wrong. We’re here to be a breath of fresh air in the world of student journalism.

Sobey’s vintage shop - Discover Park Street’s hidden gems with Style, pg.15

The Croft is what we’re calling the new lifestyle pull-out for Epigram. I am thrilled to be working alongside an amazing team of writers, editors, and artists who are collaborating on a such a unique project. It’s unprecedented, and we love that. We’ve been working hard to get this together. It’s been many late nights with pizza and coffee; going over designs for logos, catchy headlines, and making sure that we provide you, the reader, with the best of the best.

What you’re going to find over the next few pages is a myriad of information and entertainment. Hungry for info about the latest restaurants in Bristol? Our Food section can satisfy you with recipes, recommendations, and everything in between. Looking for inspiration to freshen-up your wardrobe? Our Style section tackles all, from fashion faux-pas to campus style coverage. We also have a Travel section detailing anything from the undiscovered gems of Bristol to the cheapest way to jet-set across the globe. Our Wellbeing section is also here to help, whether you’re struggling with your mental health and looking for advice, or simply just the best ways to increase your productivity.

Mezze food in Bristol - Food provides a handpicked guide of local eats on pg.11

Brandon Hill - Wellbeing explores green spaces around Bristol on pg.6

And finally, we have The Croft’s front pages. Here you’ll find anything in between. Our sex and dating column Bristol in Bed provides light entertainment thanks to your submissions. And our Agony Aunt column Consult the Croft allows us to answer your anonymous questions and put your fears about university to rest. We also have various articles about living in Bristol and being a student, two things which Epigram are all about.

As you can see, we have a lot going on. These pages are full of bright and entertaining examples of the best of student journalism. We’re not going to be like The Times, or The Sun, or The Guardian.

We are The Croft. We’re sexy. We’re funny. We’re Bristol.

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Clifton Suspension Bridge - The Croft welcomes you to Bristol. pgs.3-5

D aisy Farrow The Croft Editor

Cádiz - Travel invites you to explore with them on pg.22

Dear

consult

‘Porn’s man-moans mess with my mojo’

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Is anyone else sick and tired of hearing the guy moan in porn? Every time I’m about to finish to the sweet moans of the girl, the guy has to ruin it by moaning. I hate his voice.

Can he stop talking dirty too? Every time he says ‘bend over’ I feel like he’s talking to me. I’m definitely okay with the woman talking dirty but just not the man. If I watch one more porno with male moans, I am going to cancel my PornHub premium membership.

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Epigram / Hendrike Rahtz

‘Lightweight Tinder date’

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Last weekend was my first, and last, Tinder date. A casual drink; what did I have to lose? He bought the drinks when we arrived, and things proceeded pretty smoothly. So, off I went to buy the next round, noticing he seemed slightly flushed, but figured he was just nervous. Halfway through the next pint I began to notice some signs: slurred words, dutch courage, wandering eyes. Aside from this, things were going pretty well and he came back to mine. Things heated up at home, but all of a sudden he stopped. I looked at him, he went white. He turned around and vomited all down the side of my bed and all over my carpet. He was absolutely pissed - after two pints. He was so drunk that (while I tried to clean!) he fell asleep in my bed, and concerned for his safety getting home, I slept on the sofa. When I woke up, he was gone, but had left sick smeared on my sheets.

thecroft...

I’m worried that I won’t find ‘my people’, and then feel lonely I get it. But you’ll meet such a variety of people that perhaps who ‘your people’ turn out to be will surprise you! Give it time, and be open-minded. But if you start to feel really lonely, which starts to affect your daily routine and your mood, speak to your tutor or someone you trust. There’s also Residential Life Advisors in uni accommodations who you can find on the University of Bristol website. The student wellbeing service and counselling services at Hampton House at the top of St Michael’s Hill are also really useful! But if you’d rather be anonymous, the Big White Wall is great for this, as you don’t have to talk to them in person.

I want to have a good time but I’m worried about budgeting Luckily students don’t get all their student loan money for the year at once. So that’s one way of budgeting the money throughout the year! One payment is meant to last you a few months, but it’s totally normal to make mistakes – we all spend too much on a ticket for a shitty event, order too many takeaways, buy too many new clothes etc. Just learn to cook, don’t shop at Waitrose, delete the Just Eat app, go to charity shops, and download UNiDAYS and Student Beans to get decent discounts at restaurants and shops (if you MUST go).

I’m worried about ‘sexpectations’. There seems to be a big sex culture at uni, and I’m worried about being pressured into it It’s true that uni is seen as a place where people ‘let go’ and have loads of wild sex, but that’s not everyone. You shouldn’t feel pressured to do anything you’re not comfortable with, and if you do feel like that, speak to someone. Being at uni isn’t a reason to do things you’re not happy doing.

Love, your Editors x

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Have a story to submit to Bristol in Bed? Or a burning question for Consult the Croft? We are taking submissions by anonymous Google Forms, available on The Croft’s Facebook Writers’ Group.

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Maintaining a long distance relationship

Editor of The Croft Daisy Farrow gives an insight into her long distance relationship, and offers advice for others

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Intimacy was still achievable even though we weren’t together

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Unsplash / Jorge Aguilar

made sure that we knew we were still a priority for each other, even if we weren’t in the same country.

With this in mind we even started getting creative. Sure, sometimes we would FaceTime in our pyjamas in bed, but we still wanted to keep doing things special and romantic (well, as romantic as can be over the phone.) We found that intimacy was still achievable even though we weren’t together. We resorted to watching the same TV show at the same time, But my best piece of advice? Don’t be

afraid to get really cringey and romantic.

Personally, I am a fan of the old-fashioned methods. Writing a letter to your significant other may seem a bit outdated, but not only is it super romantic but it also gives you something to hold onto and keep forever. But if writing isn’t your forté, don’t worry. Treating your partner to a thoughtful gift, a box of chocolates in the post, or a classic bouquet of flowers (because yes, boys like flowers too) are

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Planning ahead what to do when we actually met up made for something to look forward to

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sounded dumb, and very basic. Obviously we were going to communicate, how else would we keep in touch? I soon learnt that there was a big difference between sending your boyfriend a funny meme and communicating your issues. You could call each other every day and talk for hours, but if you’re not being honest about your frustrations and worries, then it’s not going to work. The best solution I found for this was to make sure that we carved out time for each other - a designated time of day or week where we would call. It can be really easy to get caught up in your job, your university work, or spending time with your friends.

And while you’re out having the time of your life, your partner is hundreds of miles away waiting for you to text. We

Epigram / Hendrike Rahtz

ith university right around the corner, the next few weeks are going to be an exciting time. But for some it can also be daunting. The prospect of saying goodbye to your significant other can be scary; whether they’re staying at home while you’re away, going to a different university themselves, or one of you is going on a year abroad. My experience of maintaining a long distance relationship over the summer taught me a lot, and hopefully the following advice can help teach you something too.

The first piece of advice given to me about maintaining a long distance relationship was to communicate. This

all great ways of showing your partner that you’re thinking of them. We also planned ahead big time when it came to us actually meeting up. My boyfriend and I were able to see each other about once a month, and every time we did we would go out to dinner. It made for something to look forward to as well as something fun to plan, and a great way to make sure you stay on the positive side of things thinking about when you’re meeting instead of how lonely you feel.

I was lucky enough that my long distance relationship was only temporary, but the things I learnt are definitely useful no matter how long you’re away from your partner. Long distance relationships get a bad rep; but if you put in the time and effort, and realistic about what you want to get out of it, you can definitely make it work.

Making the 3 most of lectures 4

Read news around your subject

This sounds basic but searching your most recent topic in a news platform should produce some interesting case-studies you can reference in exams. This is a really easy way of showing the examiner and your lecturer that you are following current subject news and reading beyond the reading list.

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hether you’re new to Bristol or entering final year, we could all use some help in ing the most out of our lectures. Take (no pun intended) of these handy

your maknote tips:

Note down readings and resources

It might not be on the reading list, but if your lecturer mentions a book they’ve just read, a related school of thought, a news story or even their favourite podcast, make a note of it! These may seem less important compared to the core reading list but immersing yourself in the works your lecturers engage with will help you pick up extra content.

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Make amazing and creative notes

Make sure that you review your notes after to check for mistakes, clarifications, and to add extra info. Checking these notes in the hour or two after the lecture will help you consolidate the content while it’s still fresh in your mind. Don’t forget to add colour, pictures, arrows or other tools that will help you to remember it. Notes don’t have to be boring, even if your lecture is.

Share notes with course friends

No one wants to give notes to the person that never turns up to the 9am lecture. But if you are sitting in that early morning lecture feeling fragile after a heavy night out, suggest mutual note sharing with lecture and seminar friends to get the best of both worlds. Creating joint Google Docs with your whole course or small study groups means you get large amounts of good quality notes that everyone has contributed to.

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Download the best software

I hate using Microsoft Word. It’s clunky, slow and looks boring. Download a software such as Google Docs or OneNote. These allow more freedom for visual notes, inserting photos and attachments. These also provide much better ways of inserting interactive features like YouTube videos and podcast clips to keep your notes interesting.

Rosa Stevens Sub-Editor

Unconventional Essentials

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A helpful list to help you remember essential items that you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise, but are thankful you brought.

Dioralyte - originally a powder used to mix with water to alleviate an ‘upset tummy’, it is also a powerful antidote for the aftermath of a heavy night of drinking.

Also, paracetamol, lemon water and coffee (not a concoction) will leave you good to go.

A reusable coffee cup and water bottle - as the first university to declare a climate emergency, having these items will spare you dirty looks from environmentalists (on a serious note, it does help to reduce waste!!!)

Condoms - for those of you that choose to have sex, please bring them. The spread of fresher’s flu is bad enough…

Meningitis jab - get one. Deadly meningitis spreads very quickly and easily and in a heavily populated student area, the chances are greatly increased.

Kitchen stuff - at least bring some, but not everything – just because your parents have it doesn’t mean you need one. Plus, you’ll end up with six colanders to one flat which nobody wants.

Earplugs - people who design student halls don’t seem to like using bricks for walls.

Sliders or flip-flops - the bathroom and kitchen floors are likely to be DISGUSTING so do yourself a favour and protect your feet.

A washing basket that closes or seals - in most student accommodations, your washing machine will be in a communal washing room nearby. You’ll have to carry your washing there and no one wants to see your dirty underwear.

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Wellbeing

Editor Bethany Harris Deputy Editor Rosie Angel-Clark Digital Editor Diana Toma

The best green spaces to relax in Bristol

Ellie Crabbe evaluates the parks and gardens that bless our beautiful city

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s the new year approaches, there is one thing at the forefront of our minds: academic work.

Whether you are a fresher or a returner, despite the excitement, it can be a stressful time as there is plenty of hard work to be done. However, there are some amazing ways to reduce back-to-uni stress – one of the cheapest and most relaxing being spending time outdoors!

The benefits of being in nature are limitless. There are obvious advantages to physical health such as increased sun

exposure, helping to increase levels of vitamin D (which helps the body absorb calcium, maintaining strong bones), but the mental health benefits are even more impressive. Spending as little as 20-30 minutes a day in nature has been shown to decrease levels of the so-called ‘stress hormone’ cortisol and reduce general mental fatigue induced by regular proximity to screens. Being out in nature is a fantastic, free way to destress and in Bristol we are lucky to have such an abundance of accessible and beautiful green spaces. From vast expanses to

Epigram / Luke Leckie

The Downs

It may seem obvious, but because they are a bit out of town it can be a trek to get up to The Downs. However, I lived in Stoke Bishop and I would often get off the bus to walk through The Downs on my way home. In varying seasons or hours, it always looks different. From winter walks to summer barbecues, The Downs are always a wonderful place to chill, both on your own or with friends.

Royal Fort Gardens

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This charming little garden sits right in the centre of campus, but instantly has a more relaxed vibe. With plenty of benches dotted beside the lawns and flowerbeds, it’s a lovely, convenient spot to take a break during a day of classes.

Victoria Park

Sitting just south of the Avon in Bedminster, this large Victorian park is an unsung hero. It provides great views of the city, plenty of seating areas and a tracked route of about a mile if you want to do some exercise.

Earlier this year, a new mobile café in a campervan called ‘Stuffed’ opened there. Serving hot drinks and pastries, it is sure to relax you even more in the fresh autumn air.

College Green

Nestled between the cathedral and city council, College Green is surprisingly peaceful. With its colourful flowerbeds, water feature and large lawn, it’s a great place to take a breather after a busy day in town and enjoy an ice cream.

Brandon Hill

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol and has arguably some of the best views of the city. To the south, there is an almost bird’s eye view of the SS Great Britain and to the east a view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

Though a beaten track, the park has lots of nooks and crannies including a pond surrounded by trees and shrubs. Due to its central location, it’s a perfect spot to bring your lunch and sit quietly, taking in the beautiful views of this brilliant city.

So, whether you prefer to get lost on the meandering paths of the Downs, or simply stroll through College Green in the middle of a busy day, one thing is for sure – we are spoiled for choice with all the green spaces in Bristol.

Simple wellbeing tips for the new academic year Rosie Angel-Clark offers words of wisdom for treating yourself well

Eat well An easy way to squeeze more vegetables into your diet is by making your own pasta sauce or curries rather than buying jars - doing this will also help you to save money. Cooking more than you need and freezing the extra portions can be invaluable for a busy or stressful day and prevent you from slipping into eating badly when everything gets overwhelming.

Getting yourself a reusable water bottle is a great idea for keeping hydrated throughout the day and helping the environment. Maintaining a good diet means that you’ll recover more quickly on those days when you feel unwell or hungover.

Evaluate your relationship with alcohol and drugs It is a good idea to acknowledge your use of alcohol and drugs and work out if it is serving you well. If you regularly black out, spend days hungover, or find yourself worrying about things you can’t remember saying or doing, it might be time to think about cutting back and talking to someone such as a friend, tutor or doctor.

Balancing studying, socialising, parttime work and relaxing can be difficult.

Taking the time at the beginning of the year to list your priorities can help structure your responsibilities and make sure you have time for everything, preventing – as far as possible – those horrible moments where you realise you’ve forgotten an important task deadline.

Remember you can get support from your personal tutor.

Spending time in nature has been proven to benefit mental and physical wellbeing. It doesn’t have to be hiking or tree-climbing – taking a longer walk to lectures through one of Bristol’s many parks or taking a book to a green space instead of a library desk could make your whole day feel calmer.

Make time for your friends People don’t always find it easy to express what they’re going through.

Letting your friends know that you are there for them if they need you will solidify your friendships as well as aid both your own and your friends’ mental health. Studies have shown that something as simple as a hug can boost your wellbeing.

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Many people, including me, find it difficult to keep a regular sleep schedule.

Everyone is different and for some it is not realistic to be in bed by 10pm – but try to ensure you get eight hours as often as possible, even if it means taking naps. If you’re struggling with sleep, experiment with apps such as Bedtime on iPhones, try herbal teas for relaxation or lavender essential oil on your pillow. If it becomes unmanageable, arrange an appointment at the Students’ Health Service.

Get some fresh air every day

Try a new activity, even if it seems small

Take some time at the end of the day to relax

Finding something new that you enjoy doing will benefit your wellbeing as well as introduce you to new people. Doing something physical like yoga or martial arts benefits your physical health and might also take you out of your usual haunts. Even if you’re not a first year, go to the Welcome Fair and look around the many societies. Maybe challenge yourself to sign up to - and attend at least one session of - a couple of new societies.

University life can make us feel like there is no ‘off’ time when work is done for the day, but it is a good idea to stop working for an hour or so before you go to sleep. Unwinding before bed will improve your sleep and general health, and help your studying efficiency in the daytime. Read a book - not one required for your course! - watch a favourite tv programme, call your family, try meditation… whatever suits you.

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Get enough sleep

Make a plan for your work

Epig ram

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t can be easy to feel a little lost at the beginning of the year. With so much ahead it can feel daunting.

Whether you are starting Freshers’ or dreading your dissertation, you will need to look after yourself. Here are some easy-to-keep resolutions to make the (re)adjustment into university life easier from a wellbeing perspective.

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Remember to treat yourself kindly. It’s ok to feel overwhelmed - after all, the start of the year is exciting! But finding your own strategies for managing it can make a huge difference.

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How to support a friend with mental illness Bethany Harris walks through what can be a difficult barrier to breach

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Support comes in different forms

s the new year brings new opportunities and excitement, it also brings new challenges, and this can be overwhelming. It’s therefore important to recognise that for some, embarking on the university journey can be difficult and may place a strain on mental health and wellbeing.

For some people, going away from home may mean leaving behind familiarity and the support network provided by friends and family. Therefore, it is important to look out for each other, particularly at the start of term, to ensure that everyone feels cared for and able to talk if they are in need of support. A 2013 NUS survey found that 58 per cent of students suffering from mental distress shared their feelings with friends, compared to only 10 per cent who sought help from their university.

Thus, it is clear that friendships play a significant role in mental health support at universities. However, knowing how to identify when someone is struggling with mental health and how best to support them can be difficult.

Fortunately, there are a range of resources available online that offer useful advice and tips on how best to support a friend. I have found the best of these to be a resource provided

by Student Minds – the UK’s student mental health charity.

Whilst more detail can be found on their website, I have put together a short guide on how to support a friend who is struggling with mental health and wellbeing.

Don’t forget about the fun stuff! Enjoy spending time together, whether that be going shopping, taking part in a sport, or socialising at the pub. It can be easy to withdraw from social situations and focus on talking about worries or concerns. If your friend is struggling with their mental health, waiting for them to arrange something or asking them what they want to do may be overwhelming. Suggest a plan and remember to keep inviting them along (even if they say no) to make sure that they still feel included.

Don’t forget to look after yourself

It can be difficult not to worry about your friend but remember you can’t support them with everything. Establish some boundaries. Solving day-to-day problems alone will improve their confidence and ensure that you and your friend don’t become too reliant on each other. Remember that you are still friends and so if it gets too much, you may want to confide in someone you trust to take a little pressure off yourself.

Finally, it is important to remember that mental health is a very personal experience and the signs can be difficult to spot.

Remember that supporting a friend does not mean you are there to make a diagnosis. However, if there is a diagnosis it may be useful to do some research. Helpful resources include Mind and Student Minds. These not only explain what specific diagnoses involve but offer advice on how best to support someone who is dealing with that problem, helping you to offer more specific support.

Starting a conversation

Starting that first conversation can be the hardest part as it can be difficult to know what to say. However, choosing where and when to have the conversation is just as important as what you say. Suggest going for a walk or a meal just the two of you as this may make it easier to talk openly, and ensure that you have enough time to talk as leaving halfway through the conversation may leave your friend feeling like you do not fully support them.

Whilst you may not understand what your friend is going through, try not to act shocked as this may make them feel less able to talk freely. It is likely that you won’t know what to say and will be unable to offer advice – don’t worry – just by listening you are showing that you are there for them.

Instead of asking ‘Why’ questions, ask open questions such as ‘How can I support you?’ as these are less intimidating and encourage further conversation.

Unhappy in your halls?

Here are some thoughts from students who moved accommodation after challenging experiences.

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Ha ig I moved flat within h, Nelson House (an old one). I didn’t think I got on with my flatmates so I moved. However, I got on with the new ones even less. I should have made a bit more of an effort with the first ones and taken responsibility for the issues I was creating. Instead I moved when things got difficult as they sometimes do when you live with random people. It helps that I have four years of hindsight and experience now but I did what I thought was best at the time.

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I moved into Favell House and wanted to go out in Freshers’ Week but my flatmates just wanted to stay in. I remember going to my room and crying. I can empathise with others who might not want to go out when all their friends do, as they’ll feel pressure as well.

Someone I knew had a spare room, so I moved in after only two days. A major part of my happiness in first year was thanks to my new flat. I think it would be great if there was a scheme where first-years were given the option to move after their first e week. I can’t imagine what my life would’ve been like D g if I hadn’t moved – I wouldn’t have made n i er the friends I have now. in e g n ar E h ye t 5 , d d o Lara D

A society that looks out for you James Carter from Peace of Mind explains how they help students

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ike a seat in the ASS Library after 12:00pm, maintaining good mental health at UoB is not accessible enough by conventional means.* Still haunted by so many student tragedies, we must look out for one another, since like our physical health, our mental health needs support. Thankfully, our student community has lit the beacon for change. Thanks to their tireless work, Bristol now has several societies which aim to improve the wellbeing of our student population.

One of these is Peace of Mind, a society which puts on events to promote wellbeing and community – and on whose committee I now sit! I became increasingly involved with the society in the 2018-19 academic year after attending the society’s weekly drop-in event, ‘Positivitea’, on a whim one day. Positivitea, the society’s core weekly event, invites students to come along to the SU living room, 4th floor, Senate House, and join in as much as they want with that week’s creative activity. Be it brownie-making, board games, origami or just having a chat, Positivitea gave me a community and structure I never realised I needed, which maintained and improved my mental health. I now find myself looking forward to going along every week! And I’m not the only one: a second year Chemistry student told me attending Positivitea made her feel ‘a lot calmer’. For anyone curious about PoM, the perfect

introduction to the team is on 2 October, 12:00pm-2:00pm.

But PoM’s activities don’t stop there. Last year saw some incredible events, including a Stoke Bishop wellbeing series in North Village, making hedgehogs from recycled books in the Wills Memorial Library, and a huge Wellbeing Fete. This year the society is even more ambitious: we’re currently in the process of planning several joint events with other societies including RAG and Healthy Planet Bristol. On top of this, PoM has new events ‘Creativitea’ and ‘Activitea’, pub quizzes, morning dances with free breakfasts, help with academic advice and a collaboration with the Beets ‘n’ Roots restaurant. But perhaps our most ambitious project for the new year is our buddy system. How many times have you wanted to go to an event but felt nervous about it and had no one to go with? Our new PoM buddy system aims to stop this by offering a volunteer to go with anyone to any society to try it out! Anyone interested need only ask the society.

Alongside Student Body in Mind, Beat This Together and the Wellbeing Network, Peace of Mind is a wellbeing society run by and for students. The student community is at the heart of what we do and there’s nothing like a strong network of people looking out for each other to protect our mental health. To quote one final year Cellular and Molecular Medicine student, PoM offers ‘a friendly and safe community’. Isn’t this exactly what our University needs? I hope to meet you soon at a Peace of Mind event! *If you don’t know the ASS Library yet, you will before long!

Join Peace of Mind for free via the Bristol SU Website e Peac d in

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Find us on Facebook and Instagram @uobpeaceofmind arter

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Tom Jon es,

2n Moving into halls was stressful. dy ea I struggled to get on with my flatmates as our rP kitchen was always left in a mess and I was kept awake sy with loud music. I contacted the Accommodation Service and although they listened, nothing was done about it for three weeks. I moved to a new halls and was lucky enough to meet some really lovely people who I am now living with in second year. I would advise anyone who is not happy to act fast. Don’t just think ‘it’s only a year’ because how you feel about where you live will make all the difference to your university experience. Moving accommodation was the best decision I made in first year.

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A few An days before moving on to University I got an email saying a pipe had burst in my Badock accommodation and 26 of us were going to be moved to Langford for a few weeks. It made me dread university but it actually worked out for the best. We got very close as we were all in the same situation and spending all of our time together.

It wasn’t the most conventional Freshers’ Week but it couldn’t have been better. It just shows how these situations can actually end up working in your favour.

sics hy P ar I was in Richmond Terrace. I started in ye a shared room where they had squeezed two 4 , beds into a single room (due to Bristol being my insurance choice I had to apply last minute) but I had the opportunity to move after a week. I moved a few floors up in the same building. I think I was very lucky.

I didn’t really have to start again and ended up staying good friends with my original flat.

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Food

Editor Virginia Campbell Deputy Editor Emma Bayley-Melendez Digital Editor Hannah Ross

Must Try Foodie Hotspots for Bristol Students

Allegra Darwood shares her favourite foodie spots to get a true taste of the city

Breakfast: ‌FED 303‌

Epigram/ Allegra Darwood

I‌ recently discovered this Bristol game-changer. It’s a little out of the uni bubble (Bishopston) but has astoundingly good food. Cakes and pastries are home-made; don’t miss the ‘Babkini’ and vegan chocolate cake. Brunch is incredibly tasty, the toasties are to die for – try the Black garlic aioli toastie with greens & cheddar, £7.50.

Lunch: Chilli Daddy ‌

Epigram/ Allegra Darwood

Dinner: Bosco

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It’s a little out of the uni bubble but has astoundingly good food.

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‌ hilli Daddy started as a street stall and has C grown into a local chain selling authentic Szechuan noodles. Choose your food then pick your spice level 1-5 (anything above a 3 will leave an impact). My usual is the Chongqing Xiaomian with rice noodles (£6) – a big bowl of spicy broth with veg and noodles - the wontons are also delicious. Top tip: Add the vinegar that’s on the table for extra flavour and umami.

Bosco is my favourite pizza in Bristol; even the Margherita (£9) is amazing. Before 6pm, you can get 2 courses for £11, and if you ask nicely you can have a pizza with a different topping combo on each half (I love Queen Green). I prefer the Whiteladies branch because it serves Parmigiana, but the Clifton pizzas are equally good.

All day: Pinkmans

‌ nown for its Sour-doughnut, Pinkman’s is an absolute K brunch favourite. With arguably the best hot chocolate in Bristol, it has delicious brunch items (order the custard dipped brioche with blueberries, £9), and freshly baked pastries.‌ ‌Past 12pm, there’s a £10 Pizza & Beer Combo.

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Easy sausage pasta bake recipe Elaura Lacey dishes out a delicous cure-all

Epigram/Elaura Lacey

Epigram /Nicole AA

Starting or returning to Bristol Uni is a time associated with fun, excitement and lots of nights out. But it can also be tough. Feeling homesick is a completely normal and common thing to feel whilst settling in, and the best way to combat those down days is by making some great comfort food. Of course, everyone has different meals they associate with home cooking, so I’ve tried to make a recipe that appeals to as many people as possible. Pasta bake is something I immediately think of when remembering home; it’s easy to make, has that soft and crunchy combination and has plenty of leftovers. Bon appetite!

Method:

1. Start by pre-heating your oven to 180 degrees.

2. Place your sausages into a heated frying pan and cook them until they are piping hot in the centre. Once they are cooked, leave them on a low heat whilst completing step 3.

3. Fill a baking dish (preferably a Pyrex dish or something similar) with dry penne pasta until it reaches the top but leave room for your toppings- this is the amount you should boil for your pasta bake.

4. As you are boiling your pasta, start to chop up your red pepper and mushrooms.

5. Now is the time to place your cooked sausages on a chopping board and cut them into smaller pieces.

6. Once your pasta has softened, drain it and place it in the bak-

Ingredients

2 pork/ vegetarian sausages 1 red pepper Handful of baby button mushrooms/alternative veg 1 jar of tomato sauce Cheese (optional for topping) Penne pasta

ing dish and add your prepared vegetables and sausage pieces.

7. Add the whole jar of pasta sauce and stir in until it’s coated and mixed in with the pasta. that crispy, cheesy taste.

9. Place the tray in the centre of the oven for 30-40 mins until it is crispy on the top. Check your pasta bake regularly until it’s

10. When it’s done, let it stand for a few minutes and then serve.

If you want, you can add extra cheese!

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TIP: If you buy a pack of six sausages, get some little freezer bags at the supermarket so you can defrost some for later!

aura Lacey

the right amount of crispiness for you.

/L am igr Ep

8. If you wish, add some grated cheese on top of the pasta to get

House of Veg: a celebration of Bristol vegan culture

Emma Bayley-Melendez meets the founder of an up-and-coming food festival Daniel worked in London in IT and event management prior to moving to Bristol last year; I was intrigued to hear that it was the results of the animal food wastage conferences that he organised that led him to consider

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The House of Veg welcomes the creation of inclusive vegan events which showcase local talent

moving away from his career at the time. Since moving to Bristol, he has been busy engaging with the vegan community here which he said felt purer than the “diluted” London vegan scene. Creating and organising the House of Veg combines the moral causes that

Photo courtesy of Taste of Life

4. Find your favourite vegan junk food stalls like Bun Fiction and The Big Kebabski.

This 100% vegan Caribbean food offering was truly delicious and is the first of its kind that I have found in Bristol.

I had the seitan fried chicken which was served with incredible rice and peas packed with so much flavour. Worried you can only find them at House of Veg? Worry not because they have an online delivery service which means you can get it delivered straight to your door!

Photo courtesy of House of Veg

3. Lots of local businesses selling cute style items such as pins, patches and clothes.

Epigram / Emma Bayley-Melendez

2. A tonne of vegan cakes and sweet treats to bring back home.

Mr Lahey’s

The perfect pit stop if you’re after a energising juice that’ll keep you going throughout the event. I had the ABC juice which contains: apple, beetroot and carrot.

If like me you also need an upbeat addition definitely add ginger this will give you the kick you need to get going and is also great for digestion!

Daniel is passionate about with his experience in event management. The Pennywell Project provides the perfect space for hosting the event which combines music, food and shopping!

House of Veg was created in order to bring together likeminded people, spread veganism and help small businesses. The latter is something that I particularly admire since the House of Veg boasts forty small businesses due to Daniel offering cheaper pitch fees.

Part of what makes Bristol such an attractive location is the sense of community between the people involved. This is what House of Veg stands for and I hope it continues to inspire in the years to come as it grows and develops.

Taste of Life

What you can find

1. Vegan charities such as Viva holding talks on veganism and the farming industry.

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ristol, as a community, perfectly encapsulates the balance between food and culture and is home to a vibrant vegan scene.

The House of Veg vegan street food festival is an optimal example of how the city welcomes the creation of inclusive vegan events which showcases local talent.

House of Veg, founded by Daniel Scales in February this year, prides itself on its ability to draw in communities and local businesses from the South West and beyond. The event, hosted at the Pennywell project, has seen massive success on three consecutive occasions since February. It was great to speak to Daniel about his experiences since becoming vegan four years ago.

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Style​

Editor Orin Carlin Digital Editor Laura Mallinson Deputy Editor Lilly Hill

Halls homewares edit

Orin Carlin chooses bedroom essentials to help you channel your inner Kirstie Allsopp

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eaving home and moving to a new city is daunting for most. You have to learn to navigate unfamiliar territory and although I do recognise that Bristol is hardly the Amazon Rainforest, settling into your surroundings can still be a challenge. I think it’s fair to say that the average bedroom in halls can leave a lot to be desired, especially in comparison to your own chamber that you have spent the past 18 years carefully curating, so it will need to be spruced up!

DIFFUSER, £32.99 | BYMIE Filling your room with an aromatic scent is the perfect way to set an ambience. This diffuser mimics the look of a beautiful Roman amphora which makes it all the more covetable.

THROW, £10 | WILKO An outrageously fluffy throw is essential for making a new bed feel instantly cozy.

My personal favourite is not only enormous but most joyfully, machine-washable! (Not that it will ever be washed, because of the god-awful laundry facilities provided by halls.)

PINEAPPLE BASKET, £85 | NEXT Could this work as a washing basket?

Probably not, it’s too small but SO cute. Don’t underestimate fripperies, instead tell your bank account that they add character!

MAGDA MUG, £6 | HABITAT There’s nothing more comforting than a hot cup of your favourite drink to relax you. This is a hug-in-a-mug that will keep you happy and make you feel at home.

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TERRAZZO LAMP, £25 JOHN LEWIS No doubt the standard issue lamp will be hideous and prisonesque. Get it out of sight because you’ll need something prettier to accompany you during the allnighters.

TRINKET DISH, £16 OLIVER BONAS A stylish trinket dish is ideal for enabling you to keep your fine jewellery safe and for looking lovely on your shelf. I must stress that if you are the type of person who will smash your dish when frantically untangling your necklaces because ‘punctuality is for old people’, don’t even bother.

Bristol’s style hotspots: Park Street edition Laura Mallinson helps you get to know Bristol’s in vogue areas

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elcome to Bristol! A vibrant city with an autonomous ease of style, Bristol’s confident aura of chic dressing buzzes throughout the city; Local hotspots foster the desire for sharp fashion.

Epigram Style brings you a selection of our favourite fashion rich areas across the city, ensuring that you too can feed your fashion desire. What better place to start than the poster street of Bristol...

Like an arterial vein of street style, Park Street pumps Bristol’s independent fashion spirit straight to the heart of the student community. A string of trendsetting shops adorn the edges of campus, giving Bristol’s newest fashionistas a perfect space to shop for their latest look.

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Charity Shops 1. Cancer Research 2 2. Sue Ryder Vintage Shops 4. Uncle Sam’s 5. BS8 6. The Vintage Thrift Store 7. Sobey’s Streetwear 3. Cooshti 8. Carhartt WIP

3 4 6

5

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Cool kicks from the Vintage Thrift Store, the place for standout accessories

Cancer Research UK

Carhartt WIP

For slick streetwear, designer input and fresh brands, Carhartt WIP is your spot. It is a shop that oozes a cool credibility and no-nonsense attitude, the epitome of Bristol fashion. This high-end, high quality, retailer will help you stay street-smart with minimal effort. A Carhartt garment should last you a lifetime.

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@carharttwip

Nestled in The Triangle, Cancer Research UK is a friendly charity shop which caters perfectly to a fresher’s night out wardrobe- from fancy dress staples to audaciously patterned shit shirts, you’ll find it here. They also tend to have a pretty impressive coat/blazer selection – one to bear in mind as you hunt for the seasonal trend of oversized outerwear!

Sobey’s

Pride of the Southwest, Sobey’s is an indie brand providing fashion conscious punters with a curated selection of quality vintage pieces.

From ‘90s sports shells to sharp suits ‘n’ shirts, Sobey’s brings a finesse to vintage dressing which will perfect your cool and confident street style.

Even their cosy shop is dressed to the nines with quirky feature walls and décor straight from Antiques Roadshow, ensuring that nothing is left unstyled.

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Basic Bristol B!tch Maggie Sawant reveals the wardrobe staples that pretty much all Bristol gals own

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oing to university changes you. No longer are you the timid, skinny-jean-wearing sixth-former you once were – you are a Bristol student and you wear your flares with pride. They are your uniform. By the end of your first week, after gawping at hundreds of effortlessly cool second and third years as they breeze past you on Woodland Road, you will be able to adeptly recognise ‘Bristol style’. You’ll start hearing yourself saying, ‘Oh my god, they look so Bristol!’

FLARES, £29 TOPSHOP It’s virtually a requirement that Bristol students own a pair of flares.

It should be written on UCAS Track: You need A*AA to get in AND a pair of flares. Your bum will thank me later.

CROP TOP, £25 URBAN OUTFITTERS Crop tops are a match made in heaven with flares, combats and oversized jeans.

Bandeaus, bralets and halter necks will be your clubbing wardrobe essentials.

editors’ profiles

TRAINERS. £39.99 | ASOS The bigger and clunkier the shoes, the more Bristol they are.

Editor Orin Carlin

Fav Bristol Spot

I’m well-cultured, so I’d have to say Lola Lo or Space NK.

Go to style staple

Leopard print or sequins. So pretty understated.

CARGO TROUSERS, £22 PRETTYLITTLETHING And the award for the most versatile pair of pants goes to…the cargo trouser.

Digital Editor Laura Mallinson Fav Colour

Green, as it is such a vibrant colour.

Fashion inspo

I’m all about the Scandi vibe right now; rich textures, natural tones, big coats – it’s a big hitter for my autumn inspiration.

HOOP EARRINGS, £4.99 | H&M I have worn hoops so much my face looks strange without them. They make an outfit. You’ll struggle to find anyone without at least a small pair in their ears.

Deputy Editor Lilly Hill Couldn’t live without

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MOM JEANS, £42 | TOPSHOP It’s an unwritten rule that skinny jeans should be avoided at all costs. Straight leg, Mom, Boyfriend and Girlfriend are the only acceptable styles.

I feel like saying my family and friends is too clichéd so... My housemates’ wardrobes.

Fav Epigram Section

(Excluding Style!) Opinion. I’m a sucker for a satirical article.

Club night outfit quiz!

Lilly Hill tells you which well-loved Bristol student night out matches your outfit

Have you recenty bought your first pair of flares?

Yes, I’m a fresher!

Nope

Do you shop at charity shops?

Is it a Monday?

Why, of course!

No

Do you layer your tops?

No

When I can!

No

Do you wear your fav band’s merch?

Do you like jazz?

Yes

Nope

You got…

You got…

GRAVITY! THE BRASS PIG! The ultimate rite of You have exhausted passage for any fresher Gravity and now is many consecutive prefer a more laid back BED Mondays. Maybe atmosphere, involving after a first term lapping drink prices so high that up the £1 VKs you’ll they make you wish venture out around you’d applied for a bigger the corner to BP (once overdraft. You will spend you’ve ditched the black the whole night in the skinny jeans, that is). smoking area, obvs.

You got…

MR WOLF’S! You love to get your groove on to some live music. It suits you perfectly that Mr Wolf’s shuts at midnight since you’re like, so swamped with work these days.

Your one night out a week is JazzFunkSoul Society on a Tuesday.

Yes

Never!

Obviously!

You got…

LIZARD LOUNGE! Even though you pretend to cringe whenever the YMCA comes on, you just can’t get enough of those cheesy bangers.

You’ll be found wearing a crop top and some old skool Vans. You also can’t stand Lola Lo.

editors’ picks

PATCHOULI ESSENTIAL OIL, £9.50/10ml NEAL’S YARD ‘As summer comes to a close, even the thought of classes, assignments and deadlines fills me with dread. I’ve found adding a couple of drops of essential oil to my wrists can help to relieve the stress.’

THE RECEIPTS PODCAST | SPOTIFY ‘This fun and honest podcast brings you unadulterated girl talk, covering all your relationships, ‘situationships’ and general life experiences. Receipts trio Tolly, Audrey and Milena are a girl gang who’ll hype you up as they provide all the giggles and straight up advice.’

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You got…

THEKLA! Your top Spotify genre is indie and it annoys you when people wear The Stones’ logo as a fashion trend. Sorry about Boardmasters getting cancelled by the way, we know you were looking forward to seeing Foals live (again).

JOLI ROUGE LIPSTICK, £22 | CLARINS ‘When I’m in a rush but don’t want to leave the house bare-faced, I like to add a splash of colour to make me feel ready for any occasion. This lipstick suits that role perfectly; I love its bright shade and I’ve found it to be less drying than other lipsticks.’

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S R E br is E to l, bs1 2jl B CRAFT BRUNCH EN K C I H C D FRIE shakes

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Travel

Editor Lily Donnelly Deputy Editor Emma Loubser Digital Editor Will Holmes

Summer stories: Away to Marseille

Emma Loubser shines a light on her stint in the South of France

Lily Donnelly

Notre Dame

“ Epigram / Emma Loubser

Ile d’If

/ am igr Ep

Lily Donnelly

Panorama

available if you are that way inclined.

Marseille is perfectly located for day trips around the south of France.

I made it to Avignon and Montpellier with train and coach options that can be booked last minute. Avignon is a chocolate box French town, with a grand Palais de Papes (Papal Palace).

Montpellier is picturesque and mostly pedestrianised, thus easy to explore on foot. The tram pass is less than five euros for the day and takes you around the whole town and almost all the way to the beach, covering the bus that

As if there aren’t already enough good reasons to go to Marseille, the city is a treasure chest for foodies.

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/ am igr Ep

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oasting tourist-free tourist spots, a buzzing nightlife and the home to some of the finest French wines, why not squeeze in one last summer get away to Marseille?

The Palais Longchamp is a good place to start for a spot of sightseeing. Besides the building’s magnificent architecture, it houses the art and national history museums of Marseille which are surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Meandering down the leafy boulevard of the palace takes you into the buzz of the city. From the Old Port, there are great transport links. A small ‘train’ winds around the city to the NotreDame de la Garde and gives visitors a chance to glimpse some of Marseille’s highlights en route. Said Notre-Dame was built at the highest point of the city, offering a 360-degree view – and the building is pretty impressive too, hosting both popes and warfare since the 12th century.

If you are a literature lover who has made it through The Count of Monte Cristo, you can get a boat from Marseille to the Ile D’If which the prison in the story was based on. In reality, the Chateau d’If served as a fortress to defend the coast, but it has also housed political and religious prisoners since the early 16th century. For a prison, it has rather spectacular views of Marseille and the surrounding seas as well as a wealth of history found in the prisoners’ inscriptions on the walls. However, there is only one rather expensive café on the Ile D’If, so take some snacks for this worthwhile trip.

The boat trip also takes you to Frioul, where you can explore gorgeous calanques, lush beaches and sandy coves. It is a welcome escape from the city, with multiple hiking trails

takes you right to the shore.

Winding back to the city, Marseille offers sunset cocktails and a fun night out. Catch a gig at Le Rooftop, combining a stylish but laidback outdoor bar with panoramic sunset views. There are also lots of bars and karaoke opportunities around the Old Port!

As if there aren’t already enough good reasons to go to Marseille, the city is a treasure chest for foodies. For a true taste of French cuisine in the heart of the city, visit Le Comptoir Dugommier and try their plat du jour, oozing French authenticity in a way Café Rouge can only aspire to.

Traditionally a port city with a somewhat shady reputation, Marseille has outgrown its past. So don’t let this detract from all the wonderful things Marseille has to offer; like a bottle of Provence rosé, and a first class holiday.

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Greener globetrotting

Lily Donnelly shares some tips on how to become a sustainable traveller by making greener environmental, social and economic choices.

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Unsplash/Antoine Beauvillain

olidays abroad are everso tempting, especially when some return flights to eastern Europe are cheaper than a train to Manchester and back, yet ever-so damaging to our environment. The large amounts of carbon emissions released by planes cannot be easily justified by a threeday long city break – but you don’t have to abandon the idea of going away completely. Either save up to spend more time away, thus making the flight worthwhile, and truly discover your surroundings over two weeks - or

Slow travel

months - rather than one. And most emissions take place during take-off and landing, so take advantage of Bristol’s well connected flight paths when you feel like escaping to avoid unnecessary stop overs. Or, source other means of transport such as the Eurostar, Fix and Megabus, but as Greta Thunberg brutally discovered, private yachts do not save carbon emissions.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way.

Top Tip

Over-tourism is becoming increasingly problematic in some of Europe’s biggest cities, so steer clear of Barcelona and Venice and opt for a choice off the beaten track.

Bristol is a city all about independent business, and you should keep your broken chains out of your hand luggage.

By supporting local communities, tourists support local economies, thus helping the locals themselves to thrive rather than the exploitative hotel and resort chains that overrun many holiday destinations worldwide. And it’s sure to save you money in the process. Buying ingredients at market stalls, dining at a family-run restaurant and panic-buying at an artisanal gift shop? Consider the economic box ticked.

Packed lunches are not just for the library - bring your own sandwich or salad to save wasting both time and money at airport. And to save the seas, consider investing in a portable metal straw. Bring a biodegradable bamboo toothbrush, decant your toiletries into long-lasting & reusable travel bottles and if you’re going to a country where sanitary water isn’t guaranteed, invest in a bottle that has an in-built filter system. Although you probably already have a Chilly’s bottle if you’ve ever stepped foot in the ASS library.

Trusted platforms such as Lift Share and Blahblahcar are great ways of hopping in a car, offering a space in yours and halving the carbon footprint of your journey. Cheap, cheerful and much less harmful to our planet, carpooling will help you reach both your destination and green goals. If being in a confined space where you’re compelled to talk to strangers doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, hopping on a coach or a train is much better than driving four empty car seats back home for the weekend. But that’s obvious!

Locally sourcing

Plastic platitudes

Don’t take the wheel

This re-usable bottle is available in the SU for £8.99

Or find a metal version that will keep your drink cold OR hot in Source cafés on campus

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Awarded the title of European Green Capital in 2015, Bristol is famed for its eco-friendly ethos and environmental efficacies.

Over the past 12 years, the Bristol Green Capital Partnership has received pledges from over 900 citywide organisations, each committing to support the city in its ongoing quest for sustainability. As its residents, we too need to become a deeper shade of green - and even deeper still when it comes to travel.

Brazil breakdown - time for an Amazonian adventure Emma Loubser tells us how to show support for the world’s oxygen tank

Flikr/Joseph King

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he Amazon rainforest is often described as the significant backlash from farmers who have even lung of the world, as it removes such a vast burnt bridges and tires to protest IBAMA’s attempts. quantity of carbon dioxide from To better understand the situation, and ...the bad news is the world’s atmosphere then the air that we breathe, why not go and released back into the air as oxygen through support eco-tourism in the rainforest, and that their efforts photosynthesis. Its significance is not just get a unique adventure holiday out of it now face the marked in the oxygen it produces, but also too? Companies like World Expeditions or threat of President in its provision of a home to exquisite flora Adventure Life, whose philosophy fosters Bolsanaro, held and fauna which include thousands upon a commitment to ‘preserving the places largely accountable thousands of species, only 10% of which [they] visit’ and a ‘Leave No Trace’ principle, we actually know about. It also serves offer wide-ranging packages. for the ongoing as a home to tribal communities, whose Student-friendly versions such as Real devastation of the livelihoods depend on the rainforest and Gap offer a reasonable, inclusive package rainforest... its produce, a plethora of animals and a which promises a budding adventurer the wealth of resources that are used for things like medicine opportunity to canoe through flooded forest, enjoy jungle production. treks and learn about the myriad species along the way.

In July 2019, the BBC revealed satellite data showing The guided tours are recommended so that travellers can that an area of Amazon rainforest about the size gain knowledge of the area and how to treat it in a of a football pitch is cleared every minute. sustainable way. Whilst you’re in the mood for The good news is that Conservation saving the planet, and conveniently also in International has restored around 73 Brazil, spend some time as an eco-volunteer at million trees in the rainforest since 2016, the Brazil Otter Sanctuary and Conservation. and other organisations are following The project assists the conservation of neosuit. However, the bad news is that their tropical otters by researching otter burrows efforts now face the threat of President on the Florianopolis Coast, feeding Bolsanaro, held largely accountable for and looking after orphaned-otters and the ongoing devastation of the rainforest carrying out behavioural research. It also caused by sweeping fires. boasts the chance to explore your coastal These fires are blazing to make surroundings sustainably, by kayaking and space for livestock farming and to fuel trekking, to complete your wholesome adventure. other such commercial markets. Even with the efforts of Brazil’s main environmental Turn back to our guide that will help you Cut the Carbon of your agency IBAMA to enforce regulations, there has been flight to Brazil and support the strife towards sustainability.

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/ Diegon Gavilan ez

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Summer stories:

Soaking up some Spanish

Sofia Allistone recounts her summer spent sipping sangria, surfing and speaking Spanish...

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anting to learn a language, and feeling unequipped by years of Spanish and French at school, I chose the small but picturesque city of Cádiz in southwest Spain for a three-week language and surf course. The oldest inhabited city and pleasantly sparse of tourists, the local residents of Cádiz (gaditanos) are very welcoming.

Accommodation As for living, I would recommend the old town. Not only is it picturesque, with tall buildings and narrow cobbled

Language School After researching the best language schools, International House (IH) seemed to have the best student feedback. The surf-course available with IH in Cádiz was its selling point, so I booked a three-week beginners course for July. To save money, I chose the least intensive course, entailing 20 hours of Spanish a week. This was the perfect amount - I finished school at 1pm, leaving the afternoon to do what I liked, whether that be surfing, reading on the beach or exploring the city.

The school itself did not disappoint.

Not only was it well-organised with great teachers, it also provided different activities every evening. I attended salsa and yoga classes on the rooftop terrace of the school, which were easy ways of meeting people whilst improving my Spanish.

I would also highly recommend the

Top 3 places to visit El Mercado Central is the oldest covered market in Spain. Buy ingredients here by day, then visit its buzzing bars and stalls by night.

Cadiz Cathedral and the Levante Tower. There are lots of bars and restaurants on the square, but the smaller and more local a place, the better the food and prices!

Plaza San Antonio boasts plenty of coffee shops and bakeries to enjoy in the heat, hosts live music and dancing when the sun goes down.

streets, it’s the central spot where people meet after class. I organised my accommodation through IH, who assigned me a self-catered flat with two other students and a Spanish landlady. Whilst I didn’t apply to have a host, my independence wasn’t affected, and it enabled me to practise my Spanish with a local insight into the city.

Beaches There are three main beaches in Cádiz: La Caleta in the old town, La Santa Maria del Mar and La Victoria in the new town. Situated in a small bay on the edge of the city, La Caleta is quite small and can get crowded. It is, however, very convenient to reach if you’re living in the old town, and a beautiful spot to have a group picnic and watch the sunset. La Santa Maria and La Victoria - which join together and stretch for miles - are slightly further away, but worth the journey. If you do surf, it will be at La Victoria beach, which you can reach by bus for just over a euro.

International House I would definitely recommend Cádiz and IH to anyone interested in doing a Spanish course - it’s a great way to travel, learn a skill and make close friendships with people from all over the world.

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surf course. Don’t be discouraged if you’re a newbie, as most people there are beginners and the course itself is very relaxed - you can choose when to surf and how long for. It’s a great way to be active and set a routine in an unfamiliar place, and is also how I met the people I became closest to!

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Summertime in Bristol on camera We have compiled our favourite photos from the editorial team this summer

Co-Editor-in-Chief Patrick Sullivan enjoyed a cider with this view of Bristol Harbour.

Deputy Editor of The Croft Emma Holding took this stunning photo of Clifton Suspension Bridge.

The Croft Editor Daisy Farrow is a big fan of environmently friendly book share, Little Clyde Library, in Redland.

Emma Holding also took her friend for a few cocktails this summer at the Koocha Mezze Bar by The Arches.

Have any good photos of Bristol or student life? Submit them to thecroft.epigram@gmail.com for a chance of featuring on the back page!