InBath Easter issue by InBath

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Paul Merton

We speak to comedy royalty, Paul Merton, as he brings his 'Impro Chums' to this year's Bath Comedy Festival.

JAmes Cracknell OBE, Bath Half , Nicola Benedetti, Food and Drink , Easter Days Out, Property and more

UP TO 60% OFF EVERY DAY Nestled in the heart of Somerset just one mile from the world famous town of Glastonbury, Clarks Village is no ordinary designer shopping outlet.

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mar/apr

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March April

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InBath

Paul Merton

as he brings his We speak to comedy royalty, Paul Merton, Festival. 'Impro Chums' to this years Bath Comedy

, JAmes Cracknell OBE, Bath Half , Nicola Benedetti more Food and Drink , Easter Days Out, Property and 02/02/2017 14:08

MarApr17.indd 1

what's on

paul merton

Spring brings with it some fantastic shows and events in Bath.

Paul Merton is one of Britain's best loved comedians. He has been a regular on tv (Have I Got News For You) and radio (Just A Minute) for nearly 30 years.

We speak to double Olympic Gold medal winner, James Cracknell OBE, as he tackles the Bath Half. We take an in-depth look at this year's Bath Comedy Festival, which includes an interview with comedy royalty, Paul Merton. Plus there are the usual competitions to win tickets to see some great shows at Theatre Royal Bath.

Craig Maplesden caught up with Paul to talk about the forthcoming 'Impro Chums' show, as part of the Bath Comedy Festival, why stand-ups don't do 'improv' and why his brain is like an oldfashioned ticker tape machine.

food and drink

museums and galleries

property

With Mother's Day and Easter Sunday covered in this edition, you can guarantee that the cities eateries have come up with some tempting dishes to welcome in the new season.

As the winter jumpers and scarves are beginning to ﬁnd their way to the back of the wardrobe, there is no better time for the family to get out for the day and visit some of Bath's outstanding museums and galleries.

We also focus on our fascination with Afternoon Tea, looking at its origins and ﬁnding out about some of the best places to take it. Plus there is a chat to Searcys Head Chefs, Mark Pearson and Ross Shaw, as they talk about their careers.

With this in mind, we have highlighted the best museums and galleries and asked them what is on offer this Easter.

Inside this edition, we take a look at the 'White Paper 'put forward by the Secretary of State for Local Communities and Government Minister, Sajid Javid, to 'Get Britain Building' again. We also ﬁnd out if the new 'Lifetime ISA' is right for you.

inbath InBath is published by CVM Publishing Ltd Tel: 01225 958105 M: 07966 041054 twitter: @InBath google +: In Bath Editors: Craig & Victoria Maplesden

Plus, there is our regular look at some of the areas best 'new-build' developments, keen to help us onto the property ladder.

You can obtain our competition rules and regulations by e-mailing us at the address above.

Competition e-mails may be retained for marketing purposes.

The publisher shall not be held responsible for any loss occasioned by failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damages or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions and misprints. All information correct at the time of going to press.

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Richard Herring

Paul Merton's Impro Chums

what's on 1 – 11 Mar Abigail's Party Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk It’s forty years since the appalling Beverly ﬁrst put Donna Summer on the turntable, stacked a plate with little cheesey-pineapple ones, plied her guests with alcohol, cigarettes and Demis Roussos and slow-danced her way across the shag-pile into theatrical history. Times and prices vary see website for details

6 Mar Mary Cassatt: An American in Paris. BRLSI, Queen Square, Bath www.bedfas.co.uk Bath Evening Decorative and Fine Arts Society Talk by Sarah Kelly Sarah will talk on Mary Cassatt who was a close friend of Degas and the only American to exhibit with the Impressionists. Time 7.15pm. Pre-booked visitors £8, full time students free.(01225 742819 or 742989) 9 Mar Dr Phil's Health Revolution Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Laugh, love, shout and reclaim our NHS. Ditch the market, cherish the carers, fund the frontline, avoid the harm, kill the fear, tell the truth, use the evidence, inspire, collaborate, recover, die gently. Are you in? Time: 8pm Prices vary, see website for details 10 Mar Richard Herring – The Best Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Richard Herring, King of the Edinburgh Fringe, Metro columnist and the UK’s Podfather (RHLSTP, AIOTM) picks his favourite routines from his 12 one-man shows and crams them into 90 minutes for your delectation. From his

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deconstruction of the genealogy of Christ to him proving that racists are less racist than liberals, via some of the best knob jokes in the business. Will your favourite routine make the cut? Time: 8pm Prices vary, see website for details 12 Mar Vitality Bath Half Marathon www.bathhalf.co.uk The 36th edition of the Bath Half continues to grow in popularity. See more details on page 10 and our interview with James Cracknell. 14 – 25 Mar

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk The National Theatre’s internationally acclaimed production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time returns to Bath in March 2017. Times and prices vary see website for details 16 Mar The Bath Orchestral Gala Concert The Guildhall, Bath Orchestral musicians and soloists take ﬂight for an evening of enchanted musical journeys. Time: 7pm Prices: Adults £14 | Children £5 Tel: 01225 464313

15 Mar Rob Beckkett – Mouth of the South Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Beckett‘s back with a brand-new show of funnies and he’s taking on the big issues like Kit Kats and ﬂatbread! SOLD OUT! 16 Mar Rory Bremner: Party Political Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Britain’s best-known satirical impressionist is

Vitality Bath Half Marathon back! With Trump, Boris and Brexit fresh in the memory, Rory’s on a mission to make sense (and nonsense) of it all. (Good luck with THAT.) He will be joined by special surprise guests: some politicians, some comedians. Come and work out which is which! Time: 8pm Prices vary, see website for details 27 Mar – 1 Apr What the Butler Saw Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Orton’s inspired comic masterpiece, which pokes fun at sex, authority, family relationships and the world of psychoanalysis, remains as fresh and audacious today as ever. The wit of Wilde’s dialogue combines with the craftsmanship of a Feydeau farce in Orton’s last and funniest play, originally produced in 1969. Times and prices vary see website for details 1 – 17 Apr Bath Comedy Festival www.bathcomedy.com Bath Comedy Festival offers an intimate experience of quality performances in every conceivable venue, as well as some truly unmissable special events. Find out more on pages 14 - 17 1 Apr Paul Merton's Impro Chums The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk Paul Merton and his highly acclaimed Impro Chums are wonders of nature. They take audience suggestions and create cascades of fantastic tumbling laughter. The Impro Chums are Paul Merton, Suki Webster, Niall Ashdown, Lee Simpson and Richard Vranch. Time: 8pm Prices vary, please see websites for details 3 April A 21st Century Renaissance Talk by Simon Seligman BRLSI, Queen Square, Bath www.bedfas.co.uk Bath Evening Decorative and Fine Arts Society Simon will talk on Chatsworth and the Devonshire Collection in the Modern Age

Shirley Valentine Time 7.15pm. Pre-booked visitors £8, full time students free.(01225 742819 or 742989) 4 – 8 Apr Pygmalion Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk “The science of speech. That’s my profession. I can place any man within six miles. I can place him within two miles in London. Sometimes within two streets.” One ﬂower girl. Two experts. Free lessons. Six months. Duchess required. Times and prices vary see website for details 7 Apr Ruby Turner Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Ruby Turner was born in Jamaica and grew up in Montego Bay. Her Grandfather sang the lead in one of the Island’s Gospel Groups. Moving to England when she was 9, Ruby has lived here ever since. Time: 7pm Prices: £ 21.00 10 – 15 Apr Shirley Valentine Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Inside Mrs Joe Bradshaw, a 42-year old mother of two, is the former Shirley Valentine longing to get out. Her kids have left home and her days are an endless routine of making chips and egg for her husband while she talks to the kitchen wall. What happened to all that passion and potential? Times and prices vary see website for details 18 – 22 Apr The Mikado Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk From the team that brought you the awardwinning Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore With its hugely successful all-male versions of Gilbert and Sullivan’s work, Sasha Regan’s company has become one of the most popular with Theatre Royal Bath’s audiences. Previous

Nicola Benedetti with Bath Philharmonia visits include The Pirates of Penzance, winner of Best Off West End Production at the WhatsOnStage Awards, and 2016’s hugely acclaimed HMS Pinafore. Times and prices vary see website for details 21 Apr Nicola Benedetti with Bath Philharmonia The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk Nicola Benedetti is one of the most sought after violinists of her generation. She will bring Shostakovich’s First Violin Concerto to life with a performance that promises energy, torment and breath-taking passion. Bath Philharmonia partner her performance with Prokoﬁev’s Romeo & Juliet including the ubiquitous theme of The Dance of the Knights from the TV series, The Apprentice. Time: 7.30pm Prices vary, please see websites for details 23 Apr An Evening with Geoffrey Boycott Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk 11th August 1977, Headingley. With a century in each of his two recent ﬁrst class matches could Boycott record his 100th hundred in front of his adoring home county public? Well, you know the answer and Geoffrey will be sharing some unseen footage and photographs from the BBC archives in this brand new show. Time: 7.30pm Prices: £26/£24 25 Apr Shakin' Stevens The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk The Echoes Of Our Times Tour will see the UK's biggest selling singles artist of a decade come to The Forum, as part of his Spring 2017 Tour. Time: 8pm Prices: from £ 22.50 25 – 29 Apr Nell Gwynn Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Jessica Swale’s blissfully funny Nell Gwynn visits Bath direct from critically acclaimed sell out runs in the West End and at the Globe Theatre.

1660 Drury Lane. Charles II has cast off London’s drab, puritanical past with a love of all things loud, French and sexy. A young Nell Gwynn is selling oranges for sixpence in the burgeoning West End. Little does she know who is in the audience one fateful night. Times and prices vary see website for details 27 Apr Rusell Cane: Right Man, Wrong Age Komedia www.komedia.co.uk Are you 16-years-old, yet feel 21? Are you 40, but tragically faking 25? Or maybe you’re full-on 80 years, with the heart of three oxen and the sex drive of a bonobo chimp. Don’t worry: this is normal. No one is ever the ‘right’ age – it’s is the beauty and the curse of being a real person. Time: 8pm Prices vary, see website for details 2 – 6 May Sweet Charity Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Charity Hope Valentine is a dance club hostess in the sleazy Fandango Night Club. An eternal optimist, she just wants to be loved, but keeps on falling for the wrong guy. Finally, she seems to have met a decent fellow in shy Oscar, but will he still love her tomorrow when he discovers that she’s not actually a bank clerk?! This much-loved musical premiered on Broadway in 1966, where it was nominated for nine Tony Awards, and also ran in the West End. It was made into a ﬁlm starring Shirley Maclaine in 1969.The show-stopping hit songs include (Hey,) Big Spender, Rhythm of Life and If They Could See Me Now Times and prices vary see website for details 6 May One Night of Elvis The Forum www.bathforum.co.uk There are Elvis tributes..... and then there’s Lee Memphis King. He leaves audiences in no doubt that they are witnessing the world’s No 1 Elvis Tribute Artist. Pure entertainment and Pure Presley. Time: 7.30pm Prices vary, please see websites for details

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what's on From the team that brought the award-winning Pirates of Penzance and HMS Pinafore

Win tickets to watch Sasha Regan’s all-male

The Mikado at the Theatre Royal Bath

Thermae Bath Spa's Wellness Suite offers the ultimate in relaxation Opening in late March, Thermae Bath Spa is excited to introduce a new Wellness Suite. Offering five distinctive experiences, guests will transition into the Wellness Suite, where they can rest and relax in an entirely different atmosphere. The Wellness Suite features two themed Steam Rooms, an Infrared Sauna, an Ice Chamber and an Astral Relaxation Room. The Roman-inspired Steam Room encapsulates Bath’s rich Roman history. Featuring handcrafted, traditional stone seating and gorgeous fluted columns, the mosaic of Sulis Minerva embodies the Romano-Celtic philosophy of the healing power of thermal water that pervades all aspects of Thermae Bath Spa. The Georgian-inspired Steam Room offers a trip to another hugely influential period of Bath’s history. Utilising elements of traditional Georgian architecture to create strikingly elegant surroundings, warm light and garden scenes fill the space, while water trickles from an ornate fountain. Bathers are wreathed in comforting floral fragrance and steam, that will provide the ideal ambience for revitalisation.

With its hugely successful all-male versions of Gilbert and Sullivan’s work, Sasha Regan’s company has become one of the most popular with Theatre Royal Bath’s audiences. Previous visits include The Pirates of Penzance, winner of Best Off West End Production at the WhatsOnStage Awards, and 2016’s hugely acclaimed HMS Pinafore. Now the company returns for a third time with The Mikado, a fabulous new production which will be opening in Bath.

With its hugely successful all-male versions of Gilbert and Sullivan’s work, Sasha Regan’s company has become one of the most popular with Theatre Royal Bath’s audiences. Gilbert and Sullivan, at the height of their creative genius, take us to the far away land of Titipu, where their penchant for poking fun at British Institutions, combined with their inherent humour and timeless tunefulness, make for, arguably, the most popular opera ever written. The Mikado includes the songs A Wand’ring Minstrel I, Three Little Maids, Willow Tit Willow and Some Day it Might Happen, aka The List! Tickets for The Mikado are on sale at the Theatre Royal Bath Box Ofﬁce on 01225 448844 or online at www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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win

One of two pairs of tickets to watch The Mikado at the Theatre Royal Bath on Wednesday 19th April, 7.30pm performance. For a chance to win, simply send your name and contact details, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net Subject: The Mikado Closing Date: 12th April Usual T's and C's apply

Find yourself in contemporary surroundings with a state-of-the-art Infrared Sauna, which transmits healing heat much deeper into the muscles and joints than traditional Saunas. Acacia and lime wood panels are draped in a warm amber glow to create the perfect environment for a detox. In contrast to the warmth of the steam rooms and sauna, guests can step into a distinctly different environment with an invigorating Ice Chamber. Ultrasonic vibrations create an immersive, ethereal mist and those feeling particularly brave can use a handful of ﬂaked ice to rejuvenate and energise themselves. The Astral Relaxation Room presents another dimension with soothing, twinkling lights and calming sounds. Inspired by the work of William Herschel - the Bath–based astronomer who discovered the planet Uranus – this intimate area crafts a serene, dream-like environment. The innovative new Wellness Suite adds an original selection of experiences to Thermae Bath Spa’s already impressive facilities. For updates and further information please visit www.thermaebathspa.com

NEW WELLNESS SUITE OPENING LATE MARCH

Enjoy the contrasting experiences of the new Wellness Suite featuring the Roman and Georgian steam rooms, a state-of-the-art Infrared Sauna, an invigorating Ice Chamber and a dream-like Astral Relaxation room.

Open daily from 09.00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21.30 (pools & Wellness Suite close at 21.00)

01225 33 1234

www.ThermaeBathSpa.com

what's on

Win tickets to watch

Nell Gwynn at the Theatre Royal Bath

Winner of the 2016 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy “An absolute treat… a bawdy, witty, engaging romp” – The Times

*****

Jessica Swale’s blissfully funny Nell Gwynn visits Bath direct from critically acclaimed sell out runs in the West End and at the Globe Theatre. 1660 Drury Lane. Charles II has cast off London’s drab, puritanical past with a love of all things loud, French and sexy. A young Nell Gwynn is selling oranges for sixpence in the burgeoning West End. Little does she know who is in the audience one fateful night. English Touring Theatre presents this warm hearted, bawdy comedy directed by Christopher Luscombe with Laura Pitt-Pulford (Seven Brides for Seven Brothers) as the unlikely heroine who won the adoration of the public and the heart of the King. “This gloriously funny and touching bio-drama… a right royal treat. Go” – Daily Telegraph

*****

Christopher Luscombe recently directed the acclaimed production of Rattigan’s While the Sun Shines for the Theatre Royal Bath’s Summer Season. His other recent work includes Love’s Labour’s Lost, Much Ado About Nothing, The Madness of George III, Enjoy and Spamalot. Tickets for Nell Gwynn are on sale at the Theatre Royal Bath Box Ofﬁce on 01225 448844 or online at www.theatreroyal.org.uk

win a pair of tickets to watch Nell Gwynn at the Theatre Royal Bath on Tuesday 25th April 7.30pm performance.

For a chance to win, simply send your name and contact details, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net Subject: Nell Gwynn Closing Date: 19th April Usual T's and C's apply

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Blue patterned shift dress SUGARHILL BOUTIQUE

Ready for a bit of colour and a wardrobe refresh for Spring? Whether you are looking for a classic designer piece for the start of the wedding season, or some crisp new linen and furnishings for your bedroom, you will be able to find it at Clarks Village. Easily accessible at less than 20 minutes from the A303, come along and visit a shopping destination unlike any other.

1 mile from Glastonbury

Sir Salman Rushdie

Mary Berry

JUMP IN!

Friday 19th – Sunday 28th May 2017 The Bath Festival 2017 - Bath’s new flagship festival of music and literature has released its inaugural programme of events. Building on the heritage of the Bath Literature and Bath International Music Festivals, and with more than 130 events over 10 days, it will take place from 19th to 28th May 2017 and will bring some of the world’s leading writers, musicians and cultural figures into the iconic buildings and onto the streets of Bath. Classical, jazz and folk music will be heard alongside contemporary fiction, intelligent debate, science, history, politics and poetry, with concerts, discussions and collaborations and many free events across the city of Bath. Bath’s biggest free night of music, 'Party in the City', will launch the Festival on 19th May. The full programme will be online at www.thebathfestival.org.uk Highlights of the 2017 programme include: In his only appearance outside Paris and London, Sir Salman Rushdie, talks about his remarkable life in writing as he approaches his 70th birthday. Much-loved doyenne of the kitchen Mary Berry talks about her extraordinary career in cookery and her new book Mary Berry Everyday.

Twinkle-toed Ed Balls talks about his life in and out of politics, and his refreshingly different political memoir, Speaking Out. Two literary legends – Margaret Drabble and Fay Weldon – in conversation about their decades of experience and remarkable careers One of the great musicians of our time, Herbert Blomstedt, conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra, with pianist Martin Helmchen The very special Georgie Fame with his distinctive singing style embracing r & b, jazz, and straight-ahead grooving, performs with the Guy Barker Big Band for an evening of pure class American singer Madeleine Peyroux performs from her new and highly-acclaimed album Secular Hymns, with emotional and deeply personal interpretations of songs by Tom Waits, Jacques Brel, Allen Toussaint and more. Internationally celebrated cellist Steven Isserlis discusses his new, extensive commentary on Robert Schumann’s Advice to Young Musicians with actor, national treasure and Schumann superfan Simon Callow

The festival will have an accessible and vibrant programme that embraces the wider performing arts, with broad appeal for our city, engaging the wider community and our valued visitors.

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Bob Dylan: A Celebration – Dylanologists gather for a gala evening of music and discussion about the musician, lyricist and now Nobel Prize Laureate. Guests include Sid Griffin, Barb Jungr and David Hepworth Madeleine Thien’s epic tale about revolutionary China, Do Not Say We Have Nothing, centres on a group of classical musicians, with Bach’s Goldberg Variations featuring prominently in the story. She talks about the book, with live music from pianist Richard Uttley. Also featuring across the 10 day programme are: Literature: Sebastian Barry; Ali Smith; Michael Rosen; Raja Shehadeh; Harriet Harman; India Knight; Victoria Hislop; Lionel Shriver; Clover Stroud; Sophie Hannah; Elif Shafak; Charley Boorman; Roy Strong; Madeleine Shaw; Dan Pearson; John Simpson; Sarah Perry. Classical: Philharmonia Orchestra with Herbert Blomstedt; Jeremy Denk; Ann Murray; Cecilia Bernardini; Tenebrae; Malcolm Martineau; Richard Goode. Jazz & Folk: Brad Mehldau Trio; The Gloaming’s Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill; Martin Carthy and Sam Sweeney; Ballake Sissoko and Vincent Segal; Josienne Clarke & Ben Walker. How to book tickets: In person at Bath Box Office: open from 10.30am to 5pm. By telephone on 01225 463362. Or, Online at www.thebathfestival.org.uk

Philharmonia Orchestra

Georgie Fame

Sebastian Barry

Mary Berry

Salman Rushdie

Sissoko & Segal

Margaret Drabble

Madeleine Peyroux

Madeleine Shaw

Lorraine Pascale

Tenebrae

Celia Bernardini

Steven Isserlis

Simon Callow

Ed Balls

Harriet Harman

Naturally 7

Victoria Hislop

Charley Boorman

Psycho

JUMP BOOK INTICKETS

â&#x2013;ş thebathfestival.org.uk

Bath Box Office 01225 463362

what's on

As thousands of runners gear up for the 13.1 miles; that is the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon, we speak to some of those who will be pounding the streets and the inspiration behind each step.

Bath University Student on a Mission to Beat Cancer

The award-winning Vitality Bath Half Marathon returns to the streets of Bath on Sunday 12th March, celebrating the 36th edition of one of the best organised, longest established and most iconic city centre road races in the UK.

Recommended viewing and entertainment points for spectators include the start and finish of the race at Great Pulteney Street, Churchill Bridge, Green Park, Queen Square, Royal Victoria Park, Station Road and Weston Lock Retail Park.

The race is a fantastic platform for charity fundraising, and is one of the top three single day charity fundraising running events in the UK. It raised over £2.2 million at the 2016 race alone, and in 2017 is supporting over 130 different charity partners. Some 40,000 spectators are expected to gather to cheer on the runners and to soak up the inspirational atmosphere. The two lap traffic-free course, which is well known for being flat and fast, starts and finishes in Great Pulteney Street and straddles both sides of the River Avon, taking runners through the beautiful World Heritage city of Bath. The Runners Village is located behind the Bath Sport Centre on North Parade Road. Key Race Day Timings for the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon: 08.00 Help Desk opens in Runners Village (Bath Sports Centre) 09.00 Church service in Runners Village 10.00 Runners called to start 11.00 Half Marathon start 11.20 Family Fun Run start 12.02 Half Marathon winner crossing the finish line 13.00 Half Marathon prize giving at finish gantry 16.00 Help Desk closes Full details regarding road closures, with important information for residents, businesses and churches, are available on the race’s website at http://bathhalf.co.uk/race-day/ information-for-residents-businesses/.

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The Vitality Bath Half Marathon always attracts a strong British elite field and a large number of celebrities who are attracted by the stunning setting, fantastic crowd support and the promise of a good finishing time. The 2016 race was won by Robert Mbithi with a time of 1:01:45, setting a new course record, and the women’s title was won by Lenah Jerotich with a time of 1:12:24. The race is a fantastic platform for charity fundraising, and is one of the top three single day charity fundraising running events in the UK. It raised over £2.2 million at the 2016 race alone, and in 2017 is supporting over 130 different charity partners. Cancer Research UK is the Lead Charity for 2017, with Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens the official Family Fun Run Charity and Dorothy House Hospice Care the official Local Charity. All entries for the 2017 race are closed. Results and photos will be available online after the event. Early bird entries for the 2018 race will open on 13th March. www.bathhalf.co.uk www.facebook.com/BathHalfMarathon @bathhalf #bathhalf

Lining up at the start line of the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon on Sunday 12th March will be 21-year-old student Jack Roberts, who is not only running for close family and friends living with cancer, but who has taken matters somewhat into his own hands by studying Pharmacology at Bath University with an additional module on cancer. It is an honourable, yet understandable, career choice for someone who has seen both his grandfathers suffer from prostate cancer, one having survived and the other having sadly passed away. “My maternal Grandad, David, was diagnosed with prostate cancer and recently passed away. I really saw the harsh, life-ruining side of cancer this time. My mother’s best friend, Jacqui, has also recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, telling me that the awful disease is not done with my family and friends yet.” For Jack, studying at Bath University had already given him the idea of running the award-winning Vitality Bath Half Marathon, which is set to attract 15,000 runners and 40,000 spectators to the streets of Bath this March. “I believe it is a good thing to do at least once whilst at Bath University, but when I learnt that Cancer Research UK was the Lead Charity, I knew it was fate that I was to run it. All the money Jack raises for Cancer Research UK will help the charity to make a valuable difference in Bath and the South West, with all donations from the Vitality Bath Half going towards research in the local area. It will be the first time for Jack running his current home town’s race, and he admits that he has no running history or training plan as such. “Just go for as many runs as possible and try not to collapse!” he laughs. He is however hoping to complete the race in a respectable 2 hours 10 minutes, and it’s sure to spur him on with his studies back in the lab as he works to understand and beat cancer. Jack’s fundraising page is www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/JackRoberts95 .

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2018 ENTRIES OPENING 13 MARCH BATHHALF.CO.UK

what's on

KESBath teacher to tackle the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon for Cancer Research UK

Teacher Honours Pupil by Running for Charity For some people running a half marathon is a one-off achievement, but the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon will see 49-year-old teacher Andy The award-winning Vitality Bath Half Marathon Westley lace up his running shoes to run the returns to the streets of Bath on Sunday 12th race for an impressive 13th time. March, celebrating the 36th edition of one of the best organised, longest established and most This year, as with many of his previous races, iconic city centre road races in the UK. Andy will be running to raise money for CLIC Sargent, a much-loved charity that supports children and young people with cancer, which all stems back to an experience that has stayed with him since his ﬁrst days of teaching.

20 minutes. “I will be very pleased to get that, as age and injuries are catching up!” admits Andy.

knew that I wanted to run for them.” Some 40,000 spectators are expected to gather to cheer on the runners and to soak up the inspirational atmosphere. The two lap traffic-free course, which is well known for being flat and fast, starts and finishes in Great Pulteney Street and straddles both sides of the River Avon, taking runners through the beautiful World Heritage city of Bath. The Runners Village is located behind the Bath Sport Centre on North Parade Road.

miles from their home at a time when they most The Vitality Bath Half Marathon always attracts a strong British elite field and a large number of celebrities who are attracted by the stunning setting, fantastic crowd support and the promise of a good finishing time. The 2016 race was won by Robert Mbithi with a time of 1:01:45, setting a new course record, and the women’s title was won by Lenah Jerotich with a time of 1:12:24.

Key Race Day Timings for the The Vitality Bath Half Marathon takes place on 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon: Sunday 12th March and is one of the top three single day charity fundraising running events in 08.00 Help Desk opens in Runners Village the UK, raising over £2.2 million at the 2016 race (Bath Sports Centre) alone. The award-winning event supports over 09.00 Church service in Runners Village 130 different charities and CLIC Sargent is a 10.00 Runners called to start Platinum Bond charity. For runners like Andy, the 11.00 Half Marathon start race offers a fantastic opportunity to raise funds 11.20 Family Fun Run start for a cause that has touched him. 12.02 Half Marathon winner crossing the finish line In preparation for his 13th Vitality Bath Half, Andy 13.00 Half Marathon prize giving at finish gantry is running three or four times a week around his 16.00 Help Desk closes home-town, Trowbridge, in Wiltshire. He runs on his own and sometimes takes the picturesque Full details regarding road closures, with canal towpath towards Bradford or Devizes. For important information for residents, businesses him it is social running for ﬁtness, after having to and churches, are available on the race’s give up his beloved rugby and cricket, although website at http://bathhalf.co.uk/race-day/ his target time for Bath is a respectable 2 hours information-for-residents-businesses/.

day charity fundraising running events in the UK. need the love and support of their family, CLIC It raised over £2.2 million at the 2016 race alone, Sargent offers 10 Homes from Home across the and in 2017 is supporting over 130 different UK, which give families a free place to stay close charity partners. Cancer Research UK is the to principal treatment centres. The minimum Lead Charity for 2017, with Cancer Research UK pledge of £200 sponsorship that the charity Kids & Teens the official Family Fun Run Charity requests from each runner could pay for a family and Dorothy House Hospice Care the official to stay in one of their Homes from Home for six Local Charity. nights.

Recommended viewing and entertainment points Although he doesn’t know how much he has for spectators include the start and finish of the raised in total for CLIC Sargent over the years, race at Great Pulteney Street, Churchill Bridge, and there is some inevitable sponsorship Green Park, Queen Square, Royal Victoria Park, fatigue after so many years of doing so, Station Road and Weston Lock Retail Park. Andy’s fundraising will be making an important difference to a charity that works tirelessly to improve the lives of young cancer patients. With 11 children and young people each day learning that they have cancer, CLIC Sargent is there to help, support and guide young patients and their families from the moment of diagnosis through to cancer treatment and beyond, including supporting bereaved families living with emotional pain.

The race is a fantastic platform for charity fundraising, and is one of the top three single day charity fundraising running events in the UK. It As an English teacher in secondary education, Andy was teaching at his ﬁrst school when a boyat the 2016 race alone, raised over £2.2 million in his Year 9 tutor group contracted cancer and died, aged 13. “It has with me ever and injust2017 isstayed supporting over 130 different charity since,” says Andy, “and when I saw that CLIC As cancer treatment can often take children partners. Sargent was one of the Bath Half charities I With 11 children and young people each day learning that they have cancer, CLIC Sargent is there to help, support and guide young patients and their families from the moment of diagnosis The race is a fantastic platform for charity through to cancer treatment and and beyond. fundraising, is one of the top three single

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All entries for the 2017 race are closed. Results Anyone wishing to help CLIC Sargent fund these and photos will be available online after the vital services can do so by visiting event. www.clicsargent.org.uk/content/donate. Early bird entries for the 2018 race will open on 13th March. www.bathhalf.co.uk www.facebook.com/BathHalfMarathon @bathhalf #bathhalf

When the starter horn sounds for the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon, it will be a big moment for Abby Kean. The 36-year-old teacher from Bradford on Avon will be running the race in place of her husband, Jon, who earlier this year was diagnosed with lymphoma, and trying to raise as much money as possible for Lead Charity Cancer Research UK. For Abby, a self-confessed non-runner, completing the 13.1-mile course on Sunday 12th March will be a challenge in itself. "The most I have ever run in one go is 5K at my local parkrun, pushing my 9-month-old baby in his buggy," says Abby. "But it's really important to me to run the race as a mark of support for my husband, to raise money for such an important cause and also raise awareness of lymphoma which can often present no symptoms at all". Indeed, Abby was surprised when Jon, 42, first visited his doctor back in July with a tickly cough and feeling a bit tired. Surprise turned to shock when a precautionary chest X-Ray revealed that Jon in fact had second stage lymphoma, a cancer which usually affects people much younger or older. Fortunately in Jon’s case they caught the lymphoma early: Jon is currently undergoing his first course of chemotherapy and is bravely fighting the disease. For now he is even still able to run gently, which is his real passion. Abby’s determination to complete the Vitality Bath Half Marathon is even more impressive given her own medical history. Having had major knee reconstruction due to trochlear dysplasia, she needs to take particular care when running – another real reason for her to take it slow and make sure she crosses the finish line safely. Abby hopes to raise £500 for Cancer Research UK, which she will contribute to the school’s fundraising total. The school community has already raised an impressive £5,000 for Cancer Research UK at this year’s Great Bristol Half Marathon. Anyone wishing to support Abby can do so at her JustGiving page. Funds raised for Cancer Research UK at the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon will be put towards valuable research and education in the local Bath and South West area.

Army Career Inspires Runner to Run for Wiltshire Air Ambulance

Teenage Cancer Survivor Lives Life to the Full at 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon It is an impressive feat to run a half marathon, and even more so when it’s to raise money for a charity that has saved your life and given you hope for a future you could never imagine. This is the case for 25-year-old Claire Woolger, who is running the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust after herself being diagnosed with cancer at 14 years old. Not knowing whether she would ever lead a normal life, let alone survive, Claire experienced ﬁrst-hand the tremendous work that Teenage Cancer Trust does in helping teenagers with cancer to be normal teens and cope with the disease. Now clear of cancer, and teaching English and languages at Hayesﬁeld Girls’ School in Bath, Claire is an amazing example of someone who is using her experience to help others. And she certainly doesn’t do things by halves, as a few weeks after running the award-winning Vitality Bath Half on 12th March 2017, Claire will be running the Virgin Money London Marathon, again to raise money and awareness for Teenage Cancer Trust. “I would have never imagined, going through treatment, that I could run a marathon – or any race for that matter – 11 years down the line,” Claire admits. “I wish I could go back and tell myself that in the darkest moments of treatment – in the very, very rare moments where chemotherapy made me so poorly and weak. Because I would have had a little smidgen of hope that people survive and go on to do things they never imagined doing; in other words, that I would be able to absolutely live life to the full.” A pivotal moment came when a Teenage Cancer Trust representative was asked to go into Claire’s school to give a talk to the whole of her year group about teenagers with cancer. He put into words something Claire hadn’t been able to express to her peers because she hadn’t yet grasped it herself: a teenager with cancer is absolutely still a normal teenager and it’s ok to have normal aspirations. “Teenage Cancer Trust changed the way I was seen from ‘that

cancer girl’ and the support I received was tremendous,” remembers Claire. “The charity made school a place I went to in order to escape, and gave me a support network of friends and teachers who understood. This made the whole experience much more bearable. As a teacher now, I never underestimate the role a school can have in giving students going through all kinds of problems an escape and a haven of normality.” The ambition of Teenage Cancer Trust is to reach every young person with cancer, by expanding their team of expert nurses to work in local hospitals and patients’ homes so that young people can receive the expert treatment they need, no matter where they live. With support from fundraisers like Claire, they can fulfil this ambition and make sure every young person with cancer gets the care they deserve. It is nothing short of astonishing that Claire is planning to run the 13.1 miles of the Vitality Bath Half this spring, given that when she first put on running shoes she couldn’t run for longer than half a minute due to a lack of oxygen. Post treatment and at university she was able to run for longer, and finally in 2015 Claire entered the Vitality Bath Half Marathon in order to combine her running with giving something back to Teenage Cancer Trust. As Claire herself says, “If I can go some way to giving a teenager or family or anyone going through cancer some hope, then I will have absolutely done what I am setting out to do with my running.” Claire’s fundraising page is: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ Claire-Woolger.

Having spent 13 years serving in the British Army, and receiving the Queens Commendation for Valuable Service in 1996, Paul Wilcock could be considered something of a hero himself. But at 11am on Sunday 12th March, Paul will be running the 13.1 miles of the 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon for another bunch of heroes much closer to home: Wiltshire Air Ambulance. Having completed tours within the Army of Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kuwait and Kenya, Paul, 47, knows better than anyone the value of an Air Ambulance. I recognise the importance of being able to move casualties to the urgent care they need in the shortest time possible,” says Paul. “There are many remote locations in Wiltshire that are not easily accessible by road quickly, but the Air Ambulance overcomes this by being able to fly to those remote locations, including to the Salisbury Plain Training Area. I’d like to do what I can to raise money for the Air Ambulance as it is a great cause that relies almost entirely on donations.” The award-winning event supports over 130 different charities and Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a Silver Bond charity. For runners like Paul, the race offers a superb opportunity to raise funds for a cause close to the heart. Any money that Paul raises will go towards the £3.25m yearly cost of keeping the Wiltshire Air Ambulance flying. An emergency medical service for anyone who lives, works and travels in Wiltshire, with some call-outs to neighbouring counties, the Wiltshire Air Ambulance operates 365 days a year, allowing highly skilled paramedics to deliver critical care to patients at the scene and transfer them rapidly to the best hospital. Be it a road traffic collision, cardiac arrest, horse-riding accident, agricultural incident or sporting injury, the speed of the helicopter along with the expertise of the crew can make the difference between life and death. Paul’s fundraising page is: www.justgiving.com/Paul-Wilcock1

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what's on

Making headwa

With 2 Olympic Gold Medals and 6 World Championship t has inspired many young athletes to get ďŹ t and make the

In 2010, James took on America- racing to cycle, run, row in record time. It was during this trip that he suffered a n struck from behind by a truck while cycling through Arizo Headway, James and his family were able to make a full

This March, James will be facing the challenge of runnin raising money for the charity as well as creating awarene do. Here, James talks to Craig Maplesden about the cause as well as how you can support the charity.

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titles, James Cracknell OBE, eir lives an active one.

w and swim from LA to New York near fatal accident after being ona. With the help and support of recovery.

ng the Vitality Bath Half Marathon, ess for the outstanding work they e, the beneﬁts of an active lifestyle

Many thanks for taking time out to talk to us. So you're getting your running shoes out for this year’s Vitality Bath Half Marathon, supporting ‘Headway'. Can you tell us a little about the charity itself and why you have chosen to raise money for them? I was cycling in the United States in 2010 and was knocked from my bike by a fuel truck going 70mph. I was airlifted to hospital, suffered a fractured skull, brain swelling and placed in a medical coma. I’ve no memory of the next 5-6 weeks and Headway helped my family (as they do countless of others) understand and appreciate what the short and long term effects of a brain injury are. Their expertise, passion and patience helped my family and I immeasurably and if by raising money I can help them do the same for others that will be the least I can do. What will the money raised be put towards? Supporting the work that Headway does in communities up and down the country, the accommodation, nurses and volunteers that make the charity able to function. We’ve seen recently in the news, with Ryan Mason (Hull City footballer), how important quick and professional action is required to deal with an initial head trauma. How important is that aftercare that Headway can offer to help survivors continue living with the possible after effects? Aftercare for not only Ryan but his family and helping him/them to understand and develop strategies for areas where his personality may have changed. I’m a believer that honest but unconditional support is the best rehab. You're no stranger to training, but how much have you been able to put in for the event? Like anyone training for a long distance running event it’s a case of balancing the commitment to work/family/friends, time to train, being injury free and not eating too much. I’ve trained a fair bit, am currently injury free but have also eaten a fair bit!

James Cracknell norm and they’ll be able to enjoy and get the most out of their lives. It’s great to see more and more people getting into running as a way of keeping ﬁt. There are a number of parkruns locally which are becoming more and more popular. If you had a chance to sit down with the PM or Sports Minister for the day, what would you be asking them to do in order to get everyone out and active? More physical activity – not just sport - and education about the food the body needs and why in primary schools so we can get the best habits into the next generation to guide them through life.

helped my family (as they "doHeadway countless of others) understand and appreciate what the short and long term effects of a brain injury are. Have you run a marathon or half marathons before? I’ve done 5 marathons and the same number of half-marathons, the first of which was the Bath Half! You’ve always taken your health and fitness very seriously, how important do you feel keeping an active lifestyle is for all of us? Absolutely but it’s not just being fit in order to be good at sport but to make the most of our lives, our kids’ lives and their kids’ lives. We can’t do that if we don’t look after ourselves.

Having witnessed, ﬁrst hand, the beneﬁts that sport can offer, what advice would you give anyone out there who may not have the most active lifestyle? Start now it’s never too late. You won’t be running a marathon on day one so don’t expect to, start slow and with some friends that way you’re more likely to stick at it and activity will become part of your life. Many thanks for chatting to us. How can readers sponsor you or donate to ‘Headway'? My JustGiving page is www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/James-Cracknell-Bath-Half. T Thank you!

With this in mind, you’ve set up ‘RunJoy’. Can you tell us a little more about the idea? The aim of RunJoy is two fold ﬁrstly to give people a target(s) to aim at – namely a massparticipation running event(s) but to support them in their preparation for that and to ensure they enjoy the experience but to help them make exercise/activity part of their everyday life. That way being active and healthy will become the

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what's on

Arthur Smith & The Smithereens

Barry Cryer and Ronnie Golden Roberts, NSPCC and Childline supporter, I’m A Celebrity contestant, and author of the much loved Sadsville series of children's books The New Act Competition has grown in popularity so much that the heats have been extended to a total of eight, the ﬁrst three of which are to be held in the Igloo underneath the Abbey Hotel with the rest at The Bath Brew House.

1st - 17th April 2017

Festival Director Nick Steel says “This year sees a brilliantly balanced line-up, with something for everybody, from baby buggy to Zimmer frame! Opening night on April 1st with Paul Merton’s Impro Chums is sure to be popular and I’m thrilled that we’re being able to use Bath’s fabulous art deco Forum venue.”

Residents of Bradford on Avon and those up for a ten minute train ride won’t miss out as old stagers and all-time favourites Barry Cryer and Ronnie Golden are at the Wiltshire Music Centre (April 5th). This historic town’s pubs, eateries and independent shops are currently trending, so why not make a day of it?

Other shows destined to sell out include a second visit of the fantastic Wedding Reception (April 16th) where the audience become the guests at possibly the worst wedding in the world, whilst, we might add, devouring a delicious three course meal. Widcombe Social Club will be transformed into a glittering wedding venue for the occasion and guests are invited to dress appropriately.

Meanwhile, there’s plenty of stuff for those of us with thin wallets, from free previews on the new Theatre Bath Bus situated in SouthGate to the return of the Affordable Festival based mainly at The Bath Brew House which is hosting a plethora of pay-what-feel solo shows from the likes of Joz Norris, Simon Caine, Archie Maddocks, Harriet Kemsley, Sally-Anne Hayward and John Hastings.

This year sees a brilliantly balanced line-up, with something for everybody, from baby buggy to Zimmer frame!

Further gourmet treats include Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience, which is delivered to you courtesy of Basil, Sybil, Manuel et al in the gracious setting of the award-winning Allium Restaurant at the Abbey Hotel (April 4th).

The Brew House is also host to Saturday evening bills, plus for the ﬁrst time some late line-up shows which don’t start until 11pm. Look out for Andrew Maxwell, Paddy Lennox, Roger Monkhouse and Janey Godley.

Winner of Celebrity Mastermind and star of Live at the Apollo, wry comedian Simon Evans, is at Widcombe Social Club on April 9th, which is also the day that sees the perennial hit The Wine Arts Trail making its bonkers boozy way around Bath’s secret corners in the big red bus.

The cheap as chips buggy-friendly Kids Comedy Festival in Widcombe (Mon 10th through Fri 14th April) is aimed at hard-up mums and dads looking for creative fun during the holidays for tots and toddlers up to pre-teens. The Kids Festival will be declared open by TV’s Martin

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Widcombe remains the spiritual home of the Festival, with the programme at Widcombe Social Club boasting two star-ﬁlled Friday Night Live line-ups, the return of Arthur Smith & The Smithereens and the absolutely sensational Jess Robinson and her new show “Impressive” with a full band. Also visiting are “King Of The Fringe” Mervyn Stutter, Viv Groskop and a late entry in the programme - Pip Utton’s show Playing Maggie (8th April). The celebrated Frome performer has had huge success worldwide with his tragi-comedy which ostensibly concerns a seedy Thatcher impersonator but ends with an astonishing question and answer session with the Iron Lady herself. An unmissable tour de force suitable for Maggie lovers and Maggie haters alike! The Ring O Bells hosts a concentrated programme during the ﬁrst week of the Easter holidays with three top notch Edinburgh-style shows per day including amazing performances from Elf Lyons, Bilal Zafar, Kirsty Newton, Nick Doody, Ashley Storrie, David Mills, Croft & Pearce and Samantha Baines. Stephanie Laing returns as well as her touring partner Bisha K Ali, and the four day mini-Edinburgh closes with Lieven Scheire, a Belgian comedian who teaches special relativity while performing stand-up… never say the Festival isn’t varied! There is a whole host of other shows all over town in venues such as The Bell, The Assembly Inn, The Mission Theatre, St James Wine Vaults, Komedia and The Rondo Theatre, where Marcel Lucont and Mitch Benn star, along with the only act to have performed at every Festival since its inception – The Scottish Falsetto Sock Puppet Theatre Full details for all shows, times, venues and ticket links are on www.bathcomedy.com

Viv Groskop The Wedding Reception

Simon Evans

Festival highlights Paul Merton's Impro Chums

last couple of years, like a pig immersing itself in organic cleansing elements.

Paul Merton and his highly acclaimed Impro Chums are wonders of nature.

He has unpicked why the French don't want to own their own home (sex, obvs), why mass spectrometers reveal Americans to literally be made of corn, and why Alco-Synth - the effects of alcohol but with an effective antidote - is not likely to be appearing at a wine bar near you in the near future, despite having been invented years ago. As usual the whole thing deteriorates swiftly into a heartfelt rant about his children but these are at least the lofty aspirations he starts with this time.

Saturday 1st April, 2017 Venue: Bath Forum Doors: 7.00pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2hrs incl interval Price: £20 - £25

They take audience suggestions and create cascades of fantastic tumbling laughter. The Impro Chums are Paul Merton, Suki Webster, Niall Ashdown, Lee Simpson and Richard Vranch.

Barry Cryer & Ronnie Golden Wednesday 5th April, 2017 Venue: Wiltshire Music Centre Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 2hrs incl interval Price: £15

Expect comedy songs and gags galore from the well-loved duo, proving they're still alive and old's cool. With a combined age of more than twice that of One Direction, they sing of Nicola Sturgeon, killer stair lifts and mobile phone starers, with some shiny new chestnuts alongside a whole aviary of Barry's parrot jokes. Songs and patter both smart and funny enough to tickle the ribs of anyone with (or without) a pulse.

Simon Evans - In The Money Sunday 9th April, 2017 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 1 hr 50 mins incl interval Price: £14/12 concs

Host of BBC Radio 4's Goes to Market and star of BBC1’s Live at the Apollo, Simon Evans has been immersing himself in economics for the

As Bill Clinton said - "It's the Economy, Stupid!" Though he also said, "For Christ's sake Monica, I'll never get it to light now." So what does he know?

Viv Groskop - Anchorwoman (work in progress) Saturday 15th April, 2017 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 5.30pm for 6.00pm show Duration: 1hr Price: £8/£5 concs

Following her ﬁve star sold-out 2016 Edinburgh show Be More Margo, BBC Radio 4's Viv Groskop presents her latest work-in-progress. Anchorwoman is a show exploring our relationship with the news, asking why exactly all the news is so annoying at the moment. There might be quite a lot to say.

Arthur Smith sings Leonard Cohen 2 The Extended Mix Saturday 15th April, 2017 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 7.30pm for 8.00pm show Duration: 1hr 40mins incl interval Price: £15/£12 concs

The day before the presidential election Leonard Cohen finally fell silent. Arthur and the gifted and glamourous Smithereens revisit the acclaimed show they brought to Bath in 2015 to say so long to Leonard - with a couple of new Leonard songs, laughs and reflections. The show reflects on despair, decline and dementia yet succeeds in being hilarious, joyous and life-affirming. Smith, playwright, grumpy old man, 'Radio 4's bit of rough' and stand-up comic, is enhanced by the fabulous Smithereens, a trio of unbeatably melodious and glamourous singer/ musicians to produce an evening you will never forget.

The Wedding Reception A Dining Experience Sunday 16th April, 2017 Venue: Widcombe Social Club Doors: 12.30pm for 1.00pm show Duration: 2 hrs 30 mins Price: £37.50 incl 3 course meal!

Packing 5-star reviews from appearances in London's West End, Brighton and Edinburgh Fringe, this bonkers new immersive comedy from the makers of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience returns to Widcombe Social Club by popular demand, complete with new bits! Of course, we're no strangers to 'proper' wedding receptions, but this is something else! Will & Kate's dream was for a small intimate wedding - but Kate's parents had been dreaming of something else entirely. The happy couple tied the knot romantically in a secluded registry ofﬁce, turning up next for their quiet and romantic wedding dinner. But 'quiet and romantic' are most deﬁnitely not in Kate's parents' vocabulary...and therein lies the rub. Surprise! Find details on the full seventeen programme of laughs by visiting: www.bathcomedy.com Printed brochures are now available from pubs, cafés and restaurants around Bath and surrounding areas, or from the Visitor Information Centre in Abbey Churchyard.

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what's on

Off the cuff

Paul Merton is one of Britain's best loved comedians. With his deadpan humour and razor sharp, surreal, sense of hu (Have I Got News For You) and radio (Just A Minute) for nearly 30 years. Away from the conďŹ nes of the studio, Merton coming to the Bath Comedy Festival on 1st April, creating a new and unique comedy show, based entirely on sugges ďŹ nely honed improvisational skills and an almost manic compulsion to show off. Craig Maplesden caught up with Pa why stand-ups don't do 'improv' and why his brain is like an old-fashioned ticker tape machine.

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umour, he has been a regular on tv n, along with his 'Impro Chums', are stions from the audience, their own aul to talk about the forthcoming show,

Thank you for taking the time out to speak to us. You're coming to Bath Comedy Festival, with your 'Impro Chums' on April 1st. Now, for all our readers.....there really is no script, no props, and without sounding rude, no plan! No nothing at all. What we have is a running order of games. You generally, over a number of years, know which sort of games will encourage the audience to shout things out and be aware of what we are doing. So, there are games based on ﬁlm and theatre suggestions, there is a game based on emotional suggestions from the audience, another features three people sat in a row but speak as one person, so taking it in turns to speak one word at a time. So those are the sort of games you play; but we change the people that will play them each time, so one player will have a different take than another and of course we ask the audience to make the suggestions. I've heard about the 'Fish Bowl' where suggestions from audience members are read out and acted on immediately. Well that one's great. We usually do half an hour or so of that because there could be a ﬁlm style, a Dickens theme, a man on a desert island or four nuns up a mountain; it can be anything and that's what is really fun about it. And as you've never heard the suggestion before, your reaction to it is going to be fresh and so it keeps you on your toes. So audience participation in the show is key? Yeah, I mean, we reserve the right not to take stupid suggestions and only occasionally do we receive suggestions that we can't even read out. Sometimes you do look at them and think, why would anyone think that's remotely funny.

it. You read the words but the tape went straight into a bin. And its a bit like that, your brain, without you having to send out a message to forget everything today will just get rid of it if you don't need to know it; it just happens. It reminds me of a show I did 20 years ago, and actors talk about this. It was a two handed play that lasted 100 performances. After the final show, when the curtain came down, I went to the dressing room and had a celebratory glass of Champagne and it was all just gone. The next day I couldn't remember any of it. That Champagne was good? Yeah, I drank 15 bottles of it! Does the fact that the 'chums' have been together for over 25 years, and therefore know each others 'game', help things run smoothly? It really helps. It's also important that you get on. If there's friction in the group, and two members aren't seeing eye-to-eye on something you don't want it coming out in an improv situation - I've seen it happen. 'Can I have an emotion please?' 'Kindness; oh yes, that's never something you showed me was it!' You can't keep it out! It's much better to be harmonious. I suppose its a bit of a win/win, as people will be coming along to see something go wrong. The nature of this, because there are five people in the show, you are never on your own. Even if it's just you on stage, you know that the others are there. And if it starts not to work, or doesn't work at all, somebody will come on a deliver a punchline. Very occasionally something doesn't work. If one joke doesn't work, that's fine. If two jokes don't work, that's two too many.

We reserve the right not to take stupid "suggestions and only occasionally do we

receive suggestions that we can't even read out. Sometimes you do look at them and think, why would anyone think that's remotely funny. So as far as an audience member is concerned, each show is like a 'one night only' performance? Yes, so the Impro Chums have been working together at the Comedy Store since 1985 and there have been audience members who have been coming to the shows for 10 or 15 years because the nature of the show is that it's different every night. That's what also makes it interesting for us. I have been asked before if we have repeated stuff that we have done previously, but then if you fall into that trap, you are then pretending that you are coming up with something for the ﬁrst time and if someone has been to your show before they then think that its all repeated. And, its a lot harder to remember all that stuff than just do it! With that in mind, do you get audience members from past shows coming up to you and describing a routine or song that you performed years ago, which you can't even remember doing? Absolutely, sure. Never mind a previous year it could have been half an hour later. And its part of how your brain works. It's like one those old-fashioned ticker tape machines, where the tape came out very slowly with words printed on

Having toured with the 'Impro Chums' and worked on 'Just a Minute' for close to 30 years, is it safe to say that impro is your preferred style of comedy? I think, if you can do it, it's an incredibly effective way for a lazy person not having to do much media stuff. And 'Have I Got News For You' is very similar, they've all been running for over 30 years and its all improvised stuff. A team of writers couldn't keep a radio or tv series running for 30 years. There is a discipline to it; you have to be good at it, ﬂuent at it, but if you can pull it off, its a lazy mans way of dong it. I grow up watching programmes like 'Whose Line'. Why are there not more 'improv' shows on TV? I don't know. I think TV producers, who normally pitch these ideas, aren't particularly keen on Improv because it doesn't give them much to do. And it's difﬁcult to edit it. With 'Whose Line', you really need to see the entire game because otherwise you'd know there was a cut there and as soon as you saw it you'd ask yourself is this really improv. Do you think there is too much emphasis on 'stand-up' tours and DVD sales these days, or

continued overleaf >>>>>>>>> 21

what's on

is that just the way things are?

continue to tour in the future?

I think that's how the DVD market is these days. It peaked a little a couple of years ago but certainly the Christmas comedy DVD still sells well. I suppose doing a big arena tour works for some but not for us. We need to be close up to the audience. Asking 10,000 people for a 'physical position'. Yes you, the 19th row back. 3rd in; you!

We hope we appeal to peoples intelligence, thats the ambition, rather than the lowest common denominator stuff. We will reject stuff that we don't feel is right. 'Can we have a location for a scene please; somewhere you might go on holiday. 'Toilet!'. So we aim to make it intellectual; something that is funny, up-liﬁtng, imaginative, creative and that's all inclusive, something that is happening at that moment and couldn't happen again. It's wonderful to be part of something like that.

I suppose comedians will make money the best they can really. I suppose if you get a big laugh form 10,000 people that must be a hell of a sound. So is it more an ego thing? What 'stand-up'? (Laughs) Have you managed to talk any other comedy pals into trying doing the 'Improv' show? A lot of stand-ups don't have anything to do with Improv. Marcus Brigstock's done a fair bit, but then he is quite adventurous, and Phil Jupitus has done a bit. It's funny, stand-ups in this country don't go near it, they sort of look down on it as if its a parlour game or something. Where as, in America, it has always been different. You think of the luminaries such as Robin Williams and Steve Martin in the 70's, who went on to make ﬁlms, all did improv; there was never a divide. Anyway, I'm more than happy to keep it all to myself. They can see what i'm doing, if they can't work it out for themselves.... So what's the secret of doing improv? Generally speaking, a 'stand-up' is used to being on stage on their own and is terrible at listening to other people on stage, because they aren't used to it and they don't really care. The one key about improv is, you must listen. If we are doing a scene together, I must know what you have said. If you say 'I'm an astronaut' then I have to respond to it. If you're not listening then you can't even start. You can be the greatest improvisor on your own but in a group it won't work if you're not listening. You perform, on a regular basis, in front of audiences aged 18 – 80. As the show appeals to all ages, does this mean that you will

Merton continued 22Paul inbath

And the other great thing is the audience are part of that. They can go away feeling that they are part of the creative process, that their suggestion kick-started something that turned into a wonderful scene or a three-song musical. So as a new generation of audience comes to see the 'Impro Chums', is it something you will keep touring with? Well I think so. Unlike when you are touring a lot, where there is the monotony of the travel, staying in hotels and not being at home and stuff, the show refreshes everything. Now if we were doing the same show each night, that would be different; it becomes more like hard work. So with this there is a sense of play and fun. Paul Merton's Impro Chums are playing this years Bath Comedy Festival on 1st April, 8pm, at The Forum, Bath. Tickets are £20 - £25 and available at www.bathforum.ticketline.co.uk

win

two tickets to see Paul Merton's Impro Chums at The Forum, Bath on 1st April, 8pm a part of The Bath comedy Festival. To be in with a chance of winning, simply send us your name and contact details, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net Subject: Paul Merton Closing Date: 24 March Usual T's and C's apply

60 second interview: Nicola Benedetti When did you start playing the violin? Why did you choose it? I started playing the violin aged four because my sister who is four years older than me wanted to and I copied everything she was doing at that stage! Is the violin an instrument that you can ever master or is it a case of continual practice? I can be certain I’ll never master this instrument. My only hope is for continued improvement throughout my life. How often do you practice and how different is practice to playing live? I practice a varied amount day by day. When it comes to real crunch time and particularly when I am in the process of learning a piece of music I stop counting the hours! What type of music do you like to play and does a particular composer suit your style? My only rule is to keep a huge amount of variety in my repertoire. Provided I give myself enough time to adjust I am as comfortable in Vivaldi with a baroque bow as I am in Shostakovich. What advice would you give any young aspiring musicians (particularly violinists)? Keep consistent with practice, listen to a lot of great classical compositions and don’t be disheartened. Learning to play an instrument is very difﬁcult. You’ve travelled the world with your music, are there any places that stand out as favourites or any you would love to visit that you haven’t as yet? Playing in Scotland is always signiﬁcant for me but of course travelling to other cultures like that of India and South American countries is fascinating. Nicola Benedetti perfoms at The Forum, Bath with the Bath Philharmonia on Friday 21st April, 7.30pm. Tickets from £ 25.00 + booking fee. See www.bathforum.co.uk for more details. Find out more about Nicola and future shows by visiting:www.nicolabenedetti.co.uk

food and drink

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa launches new 2017 Afternoon Tea Menu at The Dower House Restaurant & Afternoon Tea Garden ‘Taking tea’ has been a timeless tradition in Bath since the mid-18th century when it was very much in vogue for the aristocrats and socialites of the Georgian Era to indulge in afternoon tea. Celebrating this English ritual as a symbol of grace and sophistication, as popular today as it was then, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa is pleased to announce the launch of its innovative new 2017 afternoon tea menu, epitomising the hotel’s ethos of combining old world heritage with The Boringdon Hall, located on the edge new historic world luxury. of Dartmoor, is well known for its exquisite range Theafternoon RC250teaAfternoon Tea of special experiences. Boringdon Hall’s special edition afternoonin teas for 2017 are has been crafted homage a monthly addition to the traditional afternoon tea of this momentous occasion menu, offering a stylish and luxurious afternoon tea experience with a different theme each and is a timeless classic month, with special sweet treats to complement enjoy throughout this eachto theme.

There’s always time for tea!

The birth of afternoon tea There is nothing more quintessentially English than taking afternoon tea. While the custom of drinking tea itself dates back to the third millennium BC in China, this fashionable social event is somewhat of a recent addition. During the mid-nineteenth century it was usual for people to take only two main meals a day, breakfast and dinner. Dinner was a more formal affair and would typically occur around 8 o'clock in the evening, thus leaving a long period of time between meals. In order to suppress 'that sinking feeling' during the late afternoon, Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Woburn asked that a tray of tea, bread and butter and cake be brought to her room during around 4 in the afternoon. Later Anna Maria would invite friends to join her in her rooms at Woburn Abbey during the summer and continued the practice when she returned to London, sending cards to her friends asking them to join her for "tea and a walk in the ﬁelds." Other social hostesses quickly picked up on the idea and the practice became respectable enough to move it into the drawing room. Before long all of fashionable society was sipping tea and nibbling cakes in the middle of the afternoon.

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During the late nineteenth century, afternoon tea became extremely popular with the upperclass and society women would change into long gowns, gloves and hats. Traditionally, the upper classes would serve a 'low' or 'afternoon' tea around four o'clock. The middle and lower classes would have a more substantial 'high' tea later in the day, at ﬁve or six o'clock, in place of a late dinner. The names derive from the height of the tables on which the meals are served, high tea being served at the dinner table. Traditional afternoon tea consists of a selection of dainty sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and preserves. Cakes and pastries are also served. Tea grown in India or Ceylon is poured from silver tea pots into delicate bone china cups. To experience the best of the afternoon tea tradition, indulge yourself with a trip to one of our ﬁnest hotels and restaurants who will be more than happy to offer you a special 'afternoon tea' experience. We have highlighted just a few of Bath's best places for you to try and allowed them to tell you a little more about their experience. Plus, there is a lovely recipe from Mary Berry.

celebratory Inspiration drawnyear. from the new release the For the Royal Crescent, of 2017 is a Disney milestone year as it marks 250 years sincethe John Beast, Wood the classic, Beauty and Younger placed a square of yellow limestone March’s special edition on the top of a hill overlooking the city of afternoon tea experience Bath on 19th May 1767. Today, his sweeping arc of features Georgian building remains seemingly all the expected unchanged, and at its very heart, we at The goodies such theme. Royal Crescent from Hotel & Spa are a extremely

Inspiration drawn fromthe thecity newinrelease of the excited about leading a year of Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast, celebrations. The RC250 Afternoon TeaMarch’s has been special edition afternoon tea experience features crafted in homage of this momentous occasion all from such a theme. this andthe is expected a timelessgoodies classic to enjoy throughout Indulge in enchanted tempted celebratory year. The rose Royalcupcakes, Crescent be Hotel & by white chocolate candles take a in Spathe provides a fitting setting forand indulgence nostalgic of teas, the chocolate shelled, cookie the finest bite world prestigious champagnes, crème delight topped with special ‘grey exquisite sandwiches and Lumiere’s delicate pastries. stuff’, all accompanied by delicate English ﬁnger sandwiches and of course warming speciality Masterfully created by Executive Head Chef tea. David Campbell and is team, the new 2017 menu will feature five carefully crafted teas, inspired by the hotel’s own history and notable guests of the past. Shaking up the traditions of ‘tea time’ and elegantly reinventing the English classic, David and his team have cleverly created menus tempt every pallet. Executive Head Chef, David Campbell comments, ‘Taking Afternoon tea at The Royal Crescent is a quintessential part of life in Bath, whether you live here or are visitor to this great city. We invite you to come and enjoy The RCH A wonderful way to spend as time with as friends and Afternoon Tea experience much we enjoy loved ones, preparing it. mark special occasions or simply to enjoy an indulgent treat, afternoon tea is served in thenew quintessentially Great 12 – The Afternoon TeaEnglish menu at The Hall, Royal 5pm daily.Hotel & Spa is served between 1.30pm Crescent & 6pm daily (with last sitting at 4.30pm). Enjoy Special Edition Afternoon and £45 Traditional Afternoon Tea for £35 per Tea person, to include Afternoon are pricedorfrom per person, a Glass of Tea Champagne £55 £19 to include a Flight with a naughty-but-nice Champagne upgrade of Taittinger Champagne. available. Reservations are essential and can beand made by calling 01752 or visit Relax indulge at The Royal344455 Crescent Hotel boringdonhall.co.uk for more information. & Spa.

THE DOWER HOUSE & AFTERNOON TEA GARDEN

What could possibly be more decadent than afternoon tea at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa? Choose from one of six afternoon teas; including the RC250 Tea, specially crafted to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Royal Crescent building in 2017

Afternoon Tea £35 Per Person

With a glass of champagne £45 per person With a Flight of Taittinger Champagne £55 per person

Afternoon Tea royalcrescent.co.uk

#RCHBath

To book your Afternoon Tea Experience at The Dower House Restaurant & Afternoon Tea Garden, please call our dedicated reservations team.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS 01225 823333 info@royalcrescent.co.uk royalcrescent.co.uk I #RCHBath

food and drink

Mary Mary Berry's Berry's Vanilla Vanilla Cupcakes Cupcakes with with Swirly Icing Swirly Icing

The swirled, two-toned icing makes these pretty The swirled, two-toned icingand makes these pretty cupcakes really distinctive, you can achieve cupcakes reallyadistinctive, and you achieve the effect using regular piping bag.can Have fun the effect usingwith a regular piping bag. fun experimenting the huge range of Have coloured experimenting with the hugeand range of coloured and patterned paper cases sprinkles and patterned paper cases and sprinkles available. available. Temperature: 180C/ 160C Fan/ Gas Mark 4 Temperature: 160C Fan/ Gas Mark 4 Cooking Time:180C/ 20-25mins Cooking12Time: 20-25mins Makes: Cupcakes Makes: 12 Cupcakes Cupcake Ingredients Cupcake 175g (6oz)Ingredients butter (room temperature), 175g (6oz) butter (room temperature), cut into large pieces cut into large pieces flour 175g (6oz) self-raising 175g (6oz) (6oz) caster self-raising 175g sugarflour 175g caster sugar 1⁄2 tsp(6oz) baking powder 1⁄2 tsp baking powder 3 large eggs 3 large eggs extract 1⁄2 tsp vanilla 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract Icing Ingredients Icing(6oz) Ingredients 175g butter (room temperature), 175g (6oz) butter (room temperature), cut into large pieces cut tsp intovanilla large pieces 1⁄2 extract 1⁄2 tsp vanilla 2–3 tbsp milk extract 2–3 tbsp milkicing sugar, siftedpink edible 350g (12oz) 350g (12oz) icing sugar, siftedpink colouring edible pink hearts or otheredible sprinkles, colouring to decorat.edible pink hearts or other sprinkles, to decorat. Method Method the oven to 180°C (fan 160°C/350°F/ Preheat Preheat the oven to 180°C Gas 4). Line a 12-hole muffi(fan n tin160°C/350°F/ with paper Gas 4). Line a 12-hole muffi tinthe withcake paper cupcake or muffi n cases. Putn all cupcake or into muffianlarge cases. Putand all the ingredients bowl beatcake with an ingredients a large andspoon beat with electric handinto whisk or a bowl wooden untilan electric and handevenly whisk mixed. or a wooden until smooth Dividespoon the mixture smooth and evenly mixed. Divide the mixture evenly between the paper cases. Bake for 20–25 evenly between the paper cases. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cakes are well risen and firm minutes, or until to thea cakes areto well risen and firm on top. Transfer wire rack cool. on top. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Make the icing: put the butter, vanilla extract, 2 Make the icing: put the and butter, extract, tablespoons of the milk, halfvanilla the icing sugar2 tablespoons of and the milk, and half the icing in a large bowl beat until smooth. Beatsugar in in aremaining large bowlicing and sugar, beat until Beatrest in the andsmooth. pour in the thethe remaining icing sugar, andthe pour in the the right rest of milk if needed to make icing of the milk if Put needed to the make theinto icing the right consistency. half of icing another consistency. Putithalf the icing intoedible another bowl and colour paleofpink with the bowl and colour it pale pink with the edible colouring. Carefully spoon this down one side of Carefully spoon this8 down one side of acolouring. piping bag fi tted with a No. star nozzle, then a piping fi tted with aicing No. down 8 starthe nozzle, spoon thebag non-coloured otherthen spoon side of the the non-coloured bag. Twist theicing end down of the the bagother to seal sideicing of the of theonbag the in.bag. PipeTwist swirlsthe of end the icing toptoofseal each the icing in. Pipe swirls of the icing on top of each cupcake. Scatter with the edible pink hearts, or cupcake. Scatter the edible pink hearts, or other sprinkles, towith decorate. other sprinkles, to decorate. Tip: Making the icing: Tip: Making the or icing: Using an electric hand whisk, beat the icing Using an electric or hand whisk, beat the icing ingredients until well mixed. Aim for a soft, fluffy ingredients until mixed. a soft, uffy consistency. Addwell extra milk ifAim the for mixture is fltoo consistency. Add extra milk if the mixture is too dry. dry. Taken from Mary Berry's Cookery Course, Taken from: Berry's Complete Cookbook published by Mary DK, £25, www.dk.com.

26 inbath

The Real Afternoon Tea Experience

Breathtaking views, delicious lunches at the Pump Room and sumptuous The This picture-perfect tearoom in Bath is as treats famous Theat Traditional PumpCorinthian Room Tea also comes with for its historical surroundings as it is for its In 7/10 Plymothians In aa recent recent survey, survey, 7/10 Plymothians weren't weren't sumptuous afternoon tea. aware aware that that the the Royal Royal Plymouth Plymouth Corinthian Corinthian Yacht Club, to them Yachtyou Club, was open toadorned them daily! daily! Here willwas findopen tables with crisp white

linen, impeccable service and genteel music from Most considered itit to private Members only Most considered to be be aaTrio, private Members only the resident Pump Room which combine to Club knew itit as Club and and many knew of ofexperience. as aa brilliant brilliant wedding wedding create an many unforgettable and and events events venue. venue. Whilst Whilst this this is is all all true, true, itit is is also also open open to to the the public public from from 10am 10am -- 9pm 9pm Monday Monday to to Saturday Saturday and and 10am 10am -- 6pm 6pm on on aa Sunday. Sunday.

No afternoon tea would be complete without a Are Are you you missing missing out out on on what what this this local local iconic iconic venue has to offer? Originally part of the Royal venue has to offer? Originally part of the Royal serving ofenjoyed homemade Citadel, aa rich Citadel, the the club club has has enjoyed rich history history since since its foundation 1877. into its foundation in inwith 1877. Built Built into the the side side of of the the scones Devonshire Hoe Hoe with with incomparable incomparable views views across across The The Sound, Sound, clotted cream and The Plymouth Club The Royal Royal Plymouth Corinthian Corinthian Yacht Yacht Club has has aa broad broad offering offering to to meet meet aa range range of of tastes. tastes. strawberry jam.

a helping of savoury treats including a poached salmon shot and crispbreads, a cheese scone with chive crème fraiche and a selection of yummy sandwiches. Whatever the occasion, why not add a touch of luxury to your afternoon tea experience with a glass or two of Searcys very own selected cuvee? This Champagne has been created especially for Searcys venues.

The Pump Room offers three afternoon tea packages which are served daily from noon as well as a full a la carte afternoon tea menu from 2.30pm onwards. Reservations can be made from Sunday – Friday (subject to availability) and a queuing system operates on a Saturday.

Our creative chef has come up with a wide range of sumptuous treats to tempt your taste buds. We pride ourselves in No afternoon tea would be complete without a providing the ultimate Devon cream tea. serving of homemade scones with Devonshire The afternoon tea menu is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds! The signature Traditional Pump Room Tea (£25.00 per person) offers plenty of dainty cakes to indulge in, from the chocolate and coffee opera cake to the raspberry choux, fresh fruit tart and macarons.

clotted cream and strawberry jam. The The stunning, stunning, relaxing, relaxing, family family location, location, for for Sunday Sunday lunch lunch is is suitable suitable for for families families who who love love the the outdoors, outdoors, good good food food and and the the seaside. seaside. To To complete complete the the afternoon, afternoon, ﬁﬁnish nish off off with with aa stroll stroll along along the the sea sea front front & & Barbican Barbican taking taking in in the the Plymouth’s Plymouth’s beautiful beautiful ambiance. ambiance.

With With ample ample parking parking outside outside or or on on the the Barbican Barbican the the Royal Royal Plymouth Plymouth Corinthian Corinthian Yacht Yacht Club Club is is ‘the ‘the perfect perfect location location for for any any occasion’. occasion’. Our Our stunning stunning function function rooms rooms are are available available to to hire hire for for your your special special occasions, occasions, such such as as celebrating celebrating the the life life of of aa loved loved one, one, birthday birthday parties, parties, weddings weddings & & engagements, engagements, charity charity events events and and much much more. more. The The Corinthian Corinthian Restaurant Restaurant offers offers aa delicious delicious 33 course course bistro bistro lunch lunch menu menu from from 12pm-3pm 12pm-3pm Monday Monday –– Saturday Saturday and and aa Carvery Carvery on on Sunday's Sunday's to to be be enjoyed enjoyed along along with with the the panoramic panoramic waterside waterside views. views. The The Chefs Chefs prepare prepare aa range range of of scones scones for for you you to to choose choose from from for for an an afternoon afternoon tea. tea. The The terrace terrace and and bar bar provide provide the the perfect perfect place place to to enjoy enjoy some some British British Tapas Tapas over over aa beer beer or or glass glass of of wine wine on on aa sunny sunny afternoon afternoon or or aa Gin Gin cocktail cocktail as as the the sun sun sets. sets.

Afternoon Tea at The Bath Priory Hotel

01225 444477 | www.pumproombath.co.uk Our Our creative creative chef chef has has come come up up with with aa wide wide range range of of sumptuous sumptuous treats treats to to tempt tempt your your taste taste buds. buds. Treat yourself to a full afternoon teaultimate including We ourselves in We pride pride ourselves in providing providing the the ultimate a selection of tea, freshly cut consists sandwiches, delicious Devon cream homeDevon cream tea, which which consists of of two two homehomemade cakes andwith warm scones served with made served clotted cream(from made scones, scones, served with clotted cream(from clotted-cream and a local preserve. Devon Devon of of course), course), and and lashings lashings of of strawberry strawberry jam. jam. When When served served with with aa pot pot of of freshly freshly brewed brewed A vast teas and coffees are delight! also tea we think is culinary tea we selection think this this of is the the ultimate ultimate culinary delight! available. For a little more indulgence, enjoy a fine glass of Ruinart Champagne with your Booking Booking Essential Essential -- Phone Phone 01752 01752 664327 664327 full afternoon tea. For on For more more information information on hiring hiring our our facilities facilities please please email: email: club@rpcyc.com. club@rpcyc.com. Served in The Pantry, our lounges or on the terrace Visit Visit our our website: website: www.rpcyc.com www.rpcyc.com for for events events events events and and offers, offers, you you can can even even ‘LIKE’ ‘LIKE’ us us on on Monday Sunday 3.00pm 4.30pm facebook. facebook. (facebook.com/RPCYC). (facebook.com/RPCYC). Full Afternoon Tea £30.00 Champagne Afternoon Tea £44.00 For more details on The Bath Priory Hotel's Afternoon Teas, visit:www.thebathpriory.co.uk or call direct on: 01225 331 922

The Real Afternoon Tea Experience TRADITIONAL PUMP ROOM TEA £25.00 per person SEARCYS CHAMPAGNE TEA £34.00 per person PUMP ROOM CELEBRATION TEA WITH BUBBLES £43.00 per person 01225 444477 | www.pumproombath.co.uk Afternoon tea packages served daily from noon. Live music throughout the day.

The Pump Room is managed by Bath & North East Somerset Council and catering is provided by Searcys

@SearcysBath The Pump Room @thepumproomrestaurant www.searcys.co.uk

food and drink

Easter treats at idyllic Ston Easton Ston Easton Park, a fabulous country pile situated just 11 miles from the city of Bath, has a packed schedule of events for visitors this Easter including History Tours, Flower Workshops, Murder Mystery Evenings and a May Bank Holiday Picnic in the Park. Set in 36 acres of its own private West Country parkland, the hotel is idyllically placed to enjoy the joys of Spring, - complete with gorgeous gardens and the River Norr cascading through. Guests visiting Ston Easton Park this Easter Sunday will be treated to a special menu featuring traditional favourites, with a separate menu for younger members. The award winning dishes are created using only the ﬁnest, freshest, seasonal produce from the Ston Easton Park estate, complemented by an extensive selection of ﬁne wines and vintages from the hotel’s cellar. Adorned with original antique furniture, sumptuous fabrics and glistening chandeliers, the welcoming country home-from-home will provide a lovely backdrop for a memorable family day, each member leaving with an Easter Treat to take home.

The award winning dishes are created using only the ﬁnest, freshest, seasonal produce from the Ston Easton Park estate. After lunch, guests can take a stroll around the stunning grounds and witness the beginnings of Spring. Easter Sunday Lunch is available on Sunday the 16th of April priced at £39.75 per person, with children under 12 costing £20.00.

Hotel, Restaur ant and Gardens TO BOOK: Please telephone 01761 241631 or email: reception@stoneaston.co.uk Located immediately above the exhibition, the comfortable rooms provide the perfect backdrop to an Austen-themed trip to Bath. The staff are dressed in full regency regalia, allowing you to step back in time as you enjoy a delightful range of loose leaf teas, coffees, sandwiches, snacks and sweets. You can be sure that a visit to the Regency Tea Room will delight and enhance your experience at the Jane Austen Centre – it is very much part of the tour.

Afternoon Tea in Bath at The Regency Tea Room Looking for a truly elegant afternoon tea in Bath? Then the Regency Tea Room at The Jane Austen Centre is not to be missed! Our tea rooms have a lovely period atmosphere and very friendly staff, contributing to our ‘Trip Advisor’ Certificate of Excellence.

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We serve 15 varieties of loose-leaf-tea, Belgian hot chocolate and fresh coffee as well as a selection of luscious cakes, sandwiches, scones and toasties. Especially popular are our ‘Tea with Mr. Darcy’ and ‘Lady’s Afternoon Tea’, or why not try a slice of victoria sponge or Crawford’s crumpets? Whatever you choose, you can be sure it will be delicious! April – October: Everyday 10am - 5pm (last orders 4.30pm) For more details, visit: www.janeausten.co.uk call direct: 01225 443000 – Option 2, or e-mail: tearoom@janeausten.co.uk

Mary Berry's Carrot and Walnut cake with Cream Cheese Icing For this classic carrot cake recipe, its important to use full-fat cream cheese for the icing; if you use a low-fat version, the icing will just run off the cake. Carrot cake is beautifully moist, so keeps well. If your kitchen is warm, store the cake in the fridge. Temperature: 180C/ 160C Fan/ Gas Mark 4 Cooking Time: 35mins Serves 8 Ingedients: 250 ml sunflower oil 4 large eggs 225 g light muscovado sugar 200 g carrots, coarsly grated 300 g self-raising flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp mixed spice 1 tsp ground ginger 75 g walnuts, chopped, plus 8 halves to decorate For the icing: 50 g butter, at room temperature 25 g icing sugar 250 g full-fat cream cheese a few drops of vanilla extract Method: Preheat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Grease two deep 20cm round sandwich tins and line the bases of the cake tins with baking parchment. Put the oil, eggs, and sugar into?a large mixing bowl. Whisk until the mixture is well combined, lighter, and noticeably thickened. Gently fold the carrot into the cake batter, then stir in the flour, baking powder, mixed spice, ginger, and chopped walnuts until evenly blended. Spoon the mixture evenly between the tins. Put the cakes in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until golden brown, risen, and shrinking away from the sides of the tins. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. For the icing: Put the butter, icing sugar, cream cheese and vanilla extract in a bowl and whisk using a hand or electric whisk until smooth and thoroughly blended. Spread half the icing on one cake, sit the other cake on top, and spread the remaining icing on top to make a swirl pattern. Decorate the top of the cake with the halved walnuts. Taken from Mary Berry's Cookery Course, published by DK, £25, www.dk.com.

Hotel, Restaurant and Gardens

Five Course Tasting Lunch Menu £26.00 per person Coffee and Petit Fours £4 per person Delicious Five Course Tasting Lunch £26.00 per person (does not include beverages) .50

Full Afternoon Full Afternoon Tea Tea

Including a selection of ½RKIV WERH[MGLIW Including a selection of cakes, ﬁnger scones, clotted cream and cream cakes sandwiches, scones and clotted .50 £22.50 per £22 person per person

To book, please call 01761 241631 or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk Special offer – Please quote ‘In Bath’ on booking to receive 10% off per person Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF www.stoneaston.co.uk (maximum of six per party) Monday – Friday www.stoneaston.co.uk Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF Please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram JulyAug16Draft.indd 19

To book, please call 01761 241631 or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk quoting inbath.

01/06/2016 11:59

food and drink

Mark Pearson, Head Chef, The Pump Room

Three stunning venues, two different stories, one shared passion. When you hear the name Searcys you know that the ethos of innovation and quality are at the forefront of each of their venues. Founded in 1847 by John Searcy, the pastry chef to the Duke of Northumberland, its three venues in Bath continue that legacy by creating a chef led business, focused on meticulous attention to detail and a passion for fresh seasonal ingredients. Mark Pearson has been at the Pump Room for just over 30 years and has worked his way up from being a commis chef to Head Chef of both the Pump Room and Assembly Rooms. Ross Shaw has been Head Chef at Roman Baths Kitchen for almost 2 years and has already made an impact on both the business and the local restaurant scene. Craig Maplesden caught up with both chefs to talk about their careers, the fantastic produce on offer as well as what each venue has in store this spring. What are your first memories of food and at what age did you know you wanted to become a Chef? MP: From a young age I always enjoyed experimenting with food and flavours at home, and on leaving school I jumped at the chance of working on a youth training scheme, giving me my first taste of life in the catering industry.

attending Chippenham College where I gained my City and Guilds 7061/2 qualiﬁcations. In due course I was promoted to chef de partie, then to sous chef, and in 2000 I was promoted to Head Chef overseeing all restaurant and event catering at both the Pump Room and the Assembly Rooms.

We are a chef-led business and food is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to provide At 16 I started working in a small café and soon realised I was a quick learner and enjoyed our guests with a great working under the pressure of a kitchen. dining experience in a Tell us a little about your background and how you came to become Head Chef at beautiful venue. your restaurants? RS: My parents ran a nursing home when I was young and I often helped to prepare the food. My mum and grandmother were keen cooks and I would always be hanging around helping and eating!

MP: When I was 14 I started my catering life at Hands Dairy in Bath, working weekends whilst still at school. When I left school I joined a youth training scheme organised by the Hotel Catering Industry Training Board where I had a placement at the Lansdown Grove Hotel. In 1986 I applied for a commis position at the Pump Room. I combined working at the Pump Room and going to Bath College before

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RS: My ﬁrst job was at Café Retro on York Street and as part of my job with them I attended college where I achieved my NVQ 2&3. I started off making sandwiches and left 6 years later as the Head Chef.

From there I worked at HaHa bar & canteen as Sous Chef / Head Chef, followed by Bailbrook House as the senior Sous Chef. I then completed two ski seasons in France as Head Chef before returning to take on the senior Sous Chef role at Marlborough Tavern during which time we received two rosettes.

I then headed up the team at Gascoyne Place before joining the Roman Baths Kitchen as Head Chef in September 2015. What is the ethos of your restaurant? MP: We are a chef-led business and food is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to provide our guests with a great dining experience in a beautiful venue. RS: The focus is on using seasonal, local produce to create dishes which balance strong ﬂavours. We use simple presentation to showcase the incredible ingredients of the South West. How much do your surroundings add to the dining experience at The Pump Room/RBK? MP: I truly believe if you are having afternoon tea at the Pump Room with the Trio playing in the background, you really do feel as though you’ve been transported back to Georgian times. The stunning surroundings are a big part of the appeal to our guests and we are proud to work in such iconic venues. RS: We have a great position in the heart of Bath with stunning architecture and attractions on our doorstep. The restaurant has great views of some of the city’s famous sites, especially from the outer terrace.

Ross Shaw, Head Chef, Roman Baths Kitchen

Spring has some of my favourite seasonal ingredients including lots of amazing fruit and veg; rhubarb, asparagus, purple sprouting broccoli, Jersey Royals, samphire and watercress.

Coming into spring, what can we expect to see on your menu this season? MP: Our spring menu will reﬂect the tastes of the West Country with new season Wootton Bassett lamb and some nice local asparagus and baby leaves from Salisbury. RS: Spring has some of my favourite seasonal ingredients including lots of amazing fruit and veg; rhubarb, asparagus, purple sprouting broccoli, Jersey Royals, samphire and watercress. How fortunate are we to have such great produce on our doorstep?

MP: We have a special two/three course Mother’s Day lunch menu available on 26th March featuring a lovely roast topside of beef with seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and horseradish. The Mother’s Day lunch includes either a Pinkster cocktail (artisan gin with raspberries) or a Duval-Leroy Champagne cocktail, as well as coffee and macarons. From 17th June – 31st August the Pump Room will open late for summer evening dining. We only open for dinner at selected times of the year so it’s a great time to dine with us and enjoy exploring the Roman Baths until late.

MP: We are lucky to have such great suppliers on our doorstep. Lovejoys fruit and vegetables and Bartlett & Sons butchers provide some of the freshest local produce around. I have worked very closely with them for a number of years alongside the thoughtful bread company who specialise in delicious bespoke bread.

RS: We will have a great Sunday roast on offer for Mother’s Day for all the family. We’re also looking forward to some warmer days and some alfresco dining! Our new spring menu will feature lots of fresh, seasonal produce and seafood.

RS: I believe the South West has the most diverse, unique, artisan produce in the country. Stunning ﬁsh from Newlyn, Looe and Portland, locally grown seasonal vegetables and top quality butchers who work closely with local farmers.

MP: Food heaven for me is deﬁnitely a skilfully made curry combing great ﬂavours and delicate heat. I can get along with most food in life, but my idea of food hell are classic dishes poorly seasoned and food served tepid when it should be piping hot!

Any recent food/produce discoveries?

RS: My food heaven is cooking a roast dinner at home for a big group of family and friends - a big joint of meat, all the trimmings, kids running around, good ale, good wine and good company. My food hell would be the washing up the next day!

MP: Lovejoys have sourced me some great locally grown heritage cabbages and cauliﬂowers from Bromham, which we are looking to incorporate into our menus. RS: Some new suppliers I have discovered recently are Didi cakes on Walcot Street who make wonderful handmade cakes daily, The Bath Pig Company with their brilliant sausages and chorizo, and Sandridge Farm who have the best bacon. What does The Pump Room/RBK have in store in the coming months?

What is your food heaven and food hell?

What is the best piece of advice you have been given in your career? MP: If it was easy, anybody could do it! RS: The 3 T’s - the holy trinity of chefﬁng. Taste. Taste. and…. Taste. Taste everything. At least 3 times. If you’re not happy with it don’t serve it.

Dates for the diary: The Pump Room International Women's Day Wednesday 8th March 2017 6.45pm - 9.30pm Enjoy an evening of food, ﬁzz and inspiring discussion at our ﬁrst ever International Women's Day event at the Roman Baths and Pump Room. Tickets: £25.00 per person. Mother's Day Lunch Sunday 26th March 2017 12.00 - 2.30pm Treat your mum to a special Mother's Day lunch at the Pump Room. Two courses £33.50 / Three courses £39.50 (includes a cocktail, coffee and macarons). Summer Evening Dining Saturday 17th June Thursday 31st August 2017* The Pump Room doors open until 9.00pm for late afternoon tea and dinner. *Please note that the restaurant may be closed on selected evenings due to private events. Reservations: 01225 444477 www.pumproombath.co.uk

The Roman Baths Kitchen Mother's Day Lunch Sunday 26th March 2017 12.00 - 5.00pm Get the family together for a Sunday roast with all your favourite trimmings. Live music with Vince Freeman Friday 19th May 2017 7.30pm Vince returns for Party in the City. Free entry. Reservations: 01225 477877 www.romanbathkitchen.co.uk

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food and drink

The Bath Brew House: The best free house in the South West

The origins of Mother's Day So where did it all begin?

The earliest accounts that relate to a 'Mothers Day' date back to the ancient annual spring festival the Greeks dedicated to maternal goddesses. The Greeks used the occasion to honor Rhea, wife of Cronus and the mother of many deities of Greek mythology. Similar spring festivals were also prevalent in Ancient Roman, where the festival of Hilaria dedicated to Cybele, a mother goddess were celebrated some 250 years before Christ was born. The celebration made on the Ides of March by making offerings in the temple of Cybele lasted for three days and included parades, games and masquerades. The celebrations were notorious enough that followers of Cybele were banished from Rome.

Connections to the church

As Christianity spread throughout Europe churchgoers would regularly use their nearest parish or 'daughter' church to worship albeit when the spring celebrations arrived, usually around the fourth Sunday of Lent (the 40 days leading up to Easter), worshipers were asked to return to their home or 'Mother' church for spiritual protection that would give life and keep family members from harm. Over time the church festival became an opportunity for

people to celebrate both the church and the work of mothers in general.

A day of celebration

Mother's Day or Mothering Sunday has since become a regular celebration of mothers and an opportunity for the family to show their appreciation. During Victorian times many of the poor worked as servants for the wealthy. As most jobs were located far from their homes, the servants would live at the houses of their employers. On Mothering Sunday, the servants would have the day off and were encouraged to return home and spend the day with their mothers.

Modern Day

Today, Mothers Day is celebrated all over the World and although the celebration itself can take on a variety of guises there is one constant, the celebration of the Mother and motherhood. So even if you sometimes feel that life doesn't offer you a moments rest, take time to consider treating that special person this Mothers Day.

The pub is one of Bath's few remaining independently owned and run establishments, this historic country pub has been run by the same family for 20 years now, making it a well established favourite among Bath's discerning diners for consistently delicious, reasonably priced food in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. Using quality ingredients and local produce, wherever possible, to create simple and flavoursome dishes is the ethos in Richard's kitchen. As everything is prepared from scratch, the kitchen is usually able to cater for specific dietary restrictions and allergies.

32 inbath

There are lots of different areas inside the pub available for bookings and they can cater for up to 100 people for a sit down meal or for drinks and nibbles. They run popular brewery tours at 12pm and 6pm daily for just £7.50 per person (includes a pint of their beer) which adds a unique element to any booking or event. This can also be an interesting thing to do while visiting Bath for the day or during a small break.

A special cake, called the mothering cake, was often brought along to provide a festive touch.

The Hope and Anchor is set in the heart of the delightful Cam valley, a 10-minute drive from Bath city centre or alternatively now a fairly gentle and very scenic cycle ride along the new Colliers Way cycle path which leads straight into the pub car park (and then on to Radstock for the more energetic).

Hope and Anchor: The perfect spring retreat

The Bath Brew House has become a firm favourite as a well-loved pub where Bathonian’s can celebrate any occasion. They are perfectly located in Bath city centre and offer a unique experience with their micro-brewery and exceptional range of craft beers on both cask and keg. They have become well known for their tasty menu which utilises their in-house smokers and charcoal spit, offering some of the best pub food in the city.

For details of our menus call the pub on: 01225 832296, visit the website: www.hopeandanchormidford.co.uk or e-mail: info@hopeandanchormidford.co.uk

The pub hosts various events with their weekly pub quiz every Tuesday evening and live music every Sunday 4-9pm being amongst the most popular. They are one of the biggest pub venues to host live comedy during the Bath Comedy Festival, the dates this year are 1 – 17th April including the Easter weekend. Previous years have seen them host the likes of Sean Hughes and Mark Dolan and this year’s full line up is available on the Bath Comedy website (www.bathcomedy.com). From the end of March their popular beer garden comes into its own offering a sun trap (weather permitting) paradise away from the bustling streets of the city. It even has free outdoor table tennis and some large outdoor board games! Now in their fourth year and after winning Bath CAMRA City Pub of the Year 2015 and the Great British Pub Awards ‘Best free house in the Southwest 2015’ they are clearly one of the best pubs that Bath has to offer and a must see for anyone who hasn’t already visited them. For more details of events and how to book a private function, contact: 01225 805609 or visit the website: www.thebathbrewhouse.com

A lot of fresh organic vegetables and seafood as in the summer i try to work with lighter and fresher recipes .

food and drink

been in many places so i enriched my food knowledge a lot .I love Asian and Caribbean flavours , but here we cook Italian!

fan of Queen , Pellegrino Artusi to show him if i got his teachings in the right way. let's say it would be an interesting table!

'The perfect Alfresco venue' Rustico Bistro Italiano is located in one of Bath's most beautiful streets. Situated within walking distance of two of the Cities most famous attractions, The Royal Crescent and The Circus, Rustico Bistro offers ahaven of great food for locals and visitors alike. With freshly prepared, traditional Italian food in a initmate and friendly atmosphere, Rustico Bistro will give you a taste of Italy to remember. With additional seating outside, Rustico comes alive in the Summer giving your Alfresco dining experience a real Mediterrainean feel.

BAT0711/019

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food and drink

Get ready for The Cork Easter extravaganza www.libertywines.co.uk

Wild Sauvignon Blanc by Stephen Barrett

In the previous issue I extolled the virtues of what Sauvignon Blanc’s style might mean to lovers of this grape and wine. I realised there was a great deal of different styles throughout the world and some very samey ones amongst these too. So when you have a chance to taste what can only be described as “iconic” wines made with Sauvignon Blanc I, for one, jumped at the chance. It was at a tasting in Bristol that I was first introduced to Kevin Judd, and Englishman who grew up in Australia and then settled in New Zealand’s South Island with the sole purpose of making as good a wine as he could. Australia was his first appearance/appointment as assistant winemaker at the outstanding Mount Hurtle with Geoff Merrill in McLaren Vale. Next to New Zealand working at Selaks another quality establishment intending only three years in New Zealand before returning to Australia. As in life the unexpected was about to happen when a chance meeting with David Honen of Western Australia’s fabled Cape Mentelle winery led to a job offer.

clay soils that are where the majority of grapes are harvested. Kevin’s wish for a Sauvignon Blanc with a complex fruit and acid balance plus an exceptional mouthfeel was the aim. The harvest must be healthy and as late harvested as is possible, the use of wild yeasts and a naturally slow fermentation help create this much sought after style of wine. So the scene is set for me to taste his range of Greywacke Wild Sauvignon from 2009 to 2014 - just six vintages of this new and exciting cult-wine. Tasting with Kevin at the helm plus other colleagues in the wine trade we were left alone to make up our own decisions on how the wines showed and more important how did they compare over this six years period. My overall feeling was the extraordinary suppleness these wines had achieved. Soft and supply to the front palate the “hidden” fruit that was undoubtedly there in the body of the wine opening up into a myriad of flavours from Lychee to ripe Apple.

The harvest must be healthy and as late harvested as is possible, the use of wild yeasts and a naturally slow fermentation help create this much sought after style of wine. The offer was rather different as there was no winery and no grapes – this was a hands-on creation of Honen’s dream. This was around 1984 when the first sod was turned at the fledgling Cloudy Bay winery. Grapes were sought and wines were (eventually) made creating a truly new style of ripe, luscious Sauvignon not before seen in many parts of the wine-making world. Fast forward 25 years and acclaim from the wine world, many awards and an enviable distribution to all parts of the globe, it was time for Kevin to leave Cloudy Bay and create his own wine. Knowing the best sub-regions in Marlborough (South Island) he set about sourcing and creating a viticultural programme of grape management culminating in ripe, healthy moderate yields of the now unctuous Sauvignon Blanc grape. Then into the (borrowed) winery to be de-stemmed then into oak barrels for the slow fermentation he requires for his newly-named Greywacke wines. Greywacke is the name given to the sandstone/

36 inbath

Subtlety and acid then kicked in to the back of the palate giving the wines and unmistakeable harmony and elegance.The vintages all had slightly different characteristics which depict the vintage and how the winemaker (Kevin) tweaks the winemaking process to suit the harvest. In other words Greywacke Wild Sauvignon will always offer a taste of the best of the harvest coupled with winemaking with minimal interference. The wines were very well received (along with Tapas from Bristol’s restaurant Bellita) by all the lucky assembled tasters. No one wanted to go home as Kevin also offered us Pinot Noir, Riesling and Pinot Gris from the Greywacke stable to finish this truly extraordinary wine tasting from one of the worlds most respected winemakers. His parting shot to all of us was “It’s not a masterclass it just a tasting so get on with it” We did. www.libertywines.co.uk for UK stockists of all Greywacke wines.

The Cork is situated in the heart of Bath, just around the corner from the famous Thermae Spa and within walking distance of all the major tourist attractions. Historically The Cork is positioned above an old debtors prison and a Roman Well. The décor incorporates the gorgeous limestone with a cool Retro feel. Comprised of two bars, two-vaulted party pods, a conservatory and what is arguably one of the best beer gardens in Bath, The Cork has something to offer everyone. The Cork offers a fantastic range of Whiskies, Wines, Rums, Craft Beers, Real Ales, Ciders and Cocktails and much, much more! The food offering suits their style, created to emphasise laidback, relaxed dining. The menu is comprised of American inspired cuisine along with some great classics like fish and chips and the posh kebab. Bath’s huge student population can take advantage of The Cork’s student offers, available all day, every day. Not reserved just for students, all customers can receive the same discounted rates by downloading the free Cork app.

They are one of the only venues in Bath with private ‘Party Pods’, which can screen sporting events or can act as private karaoke rooms! Also, with 3 widescreen HD TVs on both floors, a projector on our upper floor and an outdoor TV (in good weather), they are able to show a huge range of sport, from regular football and rugby fixtures to the Team Bath netball team participating in the Netball Superleague. Every Sunday The Cork holds it’s infamous pub quiz hosted alternately by Quiz Masters Fitz and Aled, an event that always promises to banish those return to work/university blues’. This year’s Easter promises to be jam-packed with entertainment with a three-day bank holiday extravaganza. Friday starts the weekend off with a Steam-punk inspired Mad Hat Party and electro swing tunes. Saturday they have a Frat party themed night with a DJ, alcoholic “FreakShakes”, beer pong and classic American House Party movies. To round off the weekend The Cork will be having an Easter egg hunt, a special themed quiz, along with a DJ and some great cocktails .

Award Award Winning, Winning, Family Family Run Run Farm Farm Shop Shop Established for over 30 years Established for over 30 years Selling Quality Local Selling Quality Local Produce Produce Open Daily 9am – 6pm (10am Open Daily 9am – 6pm (10am – – 5pm 5pm on on Sundays) Sundays) HOME & & LOCALLY LOCALLY REARED REARED FRESH FRESH MEAT, MEAT, POULTRY POULTRY & HOME & GAME GAME HOMEMADE SAUSAGES, SAUSAGES, BURGERS BURGERS & & FAGGOTS FAGGOTS HOMEMADE EASTERMEAT ORDERS NOWNOW BEING TAKEN CHRISTMAS ORDERS BEING TAKEN Free local local parking parking nearby nearby Ladies and Gents Gents appointments appointments (Rick) (Rick) Free Ladies and Free local parking nearby Ladies and Gents appointments (Rick) Hair Up Up (Sam) (Sam) Classic and on-trend on-trend Hair Classic and Hair Up (Sam) Classic and on-trend Wella colouring Wella colouring Open Mondays Mondays to to Saturdays Saturdays Open Wella colouring Open Mondays to Saturdays LOCAL CHEESES & HOME COOKED MEATS Hot towelLOCAL shaving CHEESES & HOME COOKED Late night nightMEATS Friday evening evening -Hot towel shaving Late Friday LOCALLY FRUIT & SALADS Hot towel shavingGROWN VEGETABLES, Late night Friday evening 8.30 closed 8.30 closed LOCALLY GROWN VEGETABLES, FRUIT & SALADS 8.30 closed Baxters of California California HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES Baxters of Baxters of California Join us for our HOMEMADE CAKES & PIES

LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES Christmas Tasting Day LOCALLY MADE CHOCOLATES & FUDGE & FUDGE on Saturday 12th Nov FINEFINE WINES, LOCAL ALES WINE, LOCAL ALE&&CIDERS CIDER 10.30am – 2.30pm; Meet our suppliers and PRESERVES & CHUTNEYS sample their delicious PRESERVES CHUTNEYS GIFT & HAMPERS produce! GIFTCHRISTMAS HAMPERS TREES PREMIUM

www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk TEL: 01249 658112 Allington Bar Farm, Chippenham, SN14 6LJ Find out

What's On NovDec16.indd 33

03/10/2016 16:21

13 Buildings, Lansdown Lansdown Hill, Hill, Bath Bath Tel: Tel: 01225 01225425403 425403 13 Fountain Fountain Buildings, Lansdown Hill, Bath Tel: 01225 425403 EVERY EVERY NIGHT NIGHT 8 8 -- 9 9 PM PM

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of the liveliest venues One One of liveliest Sunday One ofthe the liveliest venues in Coming soon ' One of the liveliest Great selection of Shots, venues in Bath, a great begining or to Bath! or end Bath, a greatin beginning Cocktails and Fine Wines! New Cocktail Bar Join us on Facebook and Twitter for updates Dj's, inCabaret Bath! anworks endvenues tonight a works night out! aGuest out! us on facebook for Join usJoin on Join facebook for updates us on Facebook forupdates updates www.facebook.com/Mandalyns @Mandalynsbar Join us on Facebook for updates www.facebook.com/Mandalyns @Mandalynsbar

Wednesday - Open 8pm-Late - 2 for 1 Cocktails 8pm-10pm Choose

Choose Premium cocktails 2-4-1 between 8 - 10pm Thursday - KARAOKE with Mis Match & retro style barfrom with a8pm modern has10pm aa quirky Open Wedtwist. - Sat It and Sun‘snugg’ in the back bar, (closed an ideal retreat for and thoseTuesdays) looking for a temporary Mondays - Hommage a Fromage retreat Friday from the lively dance floor area. Its theme nights and Tune cabaret shows at weekends create aspirits unique ‘buzz’ . This lots is a great An Eclectic mixofofwines, tunes including of Great selection and cocktails.

So whatever you want; a quiet drink, or a full on party, Mandalyns is the place for you. Gay, Lesbian, Bi and straight, we guarantee you'll have a great night!

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Mandalyns is Bath's most popular gay venue. Great selection of wines, spirits and cocktails. With an unassuming exterior, the bar hasvenue a warm and vibrant Mandalyns Bar has always been a popular with students DJ’s and/or Cabaret nights every Saturday night until 3am ambiance, giving you the fun and entertaining night you over many years. It’s probably best know for its Student Karaoke Industry night every Sunday until 3am deserve. Mandalyns transforms from a quiet bar during the day, where there is a great selection of 1wines and cocktails on Thursday andKaraoke Sunday with lots of9student promotions available Student between until on Thursday to night. one ofBeyond the city's liveliest hot spots by the exterior early hours! all a very unassuming traditional lies a

Mandalyns is Bath's most popular gay venue. With an unassuming exterior, the bar has a warm and

venue forambiance, a night out with friends, a Saturday quiet with a selection vibrant giving you the fundrink andnight entertaining DJ’s and/or Cabaret nights every until 3am Cheese of traditional boardMandalyns games to choose from during the night you deserve. transforms from a week. quietAt bar Industry night every Sunday until 3am during the early evening, where there a great selection weekends it’s a very popular stop off, so ifis you’re looking for a between 9leave & 12 followed byliveliest DJ)at the hot Saturday - DJ’s Cabaret of wines and cocktails one of/ the city's party and a(Karaoke place where you to can your inhibitions door, spots by the early hours! Open Tuesday - is Sunday from then Mandalyns the place for 8pm you.

Premium cocktails fromfrom £ 6.9510pm Sunday - Industry Latestart - Open So whatever you want; a quiet drink, or a full on party,

FREE ENTRY Until 12pm

Mandalyns is the place for you. Gay, Lesbian, Bi or Friendly atmosphere! Straight,Great we guarantee you'll have a great night!

Great atmosphere! Have a Friendly FREE Shot 12pm on us FREE ENTRY BEFORE Greatplace place end up after aa meal! Great totoend up meal! with first drink! FREE ENTRYyour Until 12pm Last Entry 1am Weopen open at 8pm 8pm We at Last Entry 1am Thursday to Sunday Open until 3am Open 3am Thurs Sat Open 'til'til3am Thurs -UNTIL Sat 3am OPEN UNTIL 3am OPEN OPEN UNTIL 3am

inbath 37

films Logan Guardians of the Galaxy 2 28th April Released: Action, Sci-Fi Genre: Est box office: £ 30,000,000 James Gunn Director: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Film cast: Karen Gillan TBC Certificate: Walt Disney Studios Distributor:

Synopsis: Set to the backdrop of Awesome Mixtape #2, 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2' continues the team's adventures as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill's true parentage.

Released: 1st March 2017 Genre: Action, Sci-Fi Est box office: £15,000,000 Director: James Mangold Film cast: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Elizabeth Rodriguez Certificate: TBC Distributor: Twentieth Century Fox Synopsis: In the near future, a weary Logan (Hugh Jackman) cares for an ailing Professor X (Patrick Stewart) at a remote outpost on the Mexican border. His attempt to hide from the outside world gets upended when X introduces him to a young mutant named Laura (Dafne Keen). Logan must now protect the girl and battle the dark forces that want to capture her.

Kong: Skull Island

Beauty and the Beast 7th March 2017 Released: Romance, Musical, Fantasy Genre: Est box office: £30,000,000 Bill Condon Director: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Film cast: Luke Evans TBC Certificate: Walt Disney Studios Distributor:

38 inbath

Synopsis: The fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle's enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast's hideous exterior and realize the kind heart and soul of the true Prince within.

Released: 10th March 2017 Genre: Action, Fantasy, Adventure Est box office: £12,000,000 Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts Film cast: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Hiddleston Certificate: TBC Distributor: Warner Brothers Synopsis: A diverse team of explorers is brought together to venture deep into an uncharted island in the Pacific – as beautiful as it is treacherous – unaware that they’re crossing into the domain of the mythic Kong.

Also released this issue

Life 24th March 2017 Released: Sci-Fi, Thriller Genre: Est box office: £7,000,000 Daniel Espinosa Director: Ryan Reynolds, Jake Film cast: Gyllenhaal, Rebecca Ferguson TBC Certificate: Sony Pictures Intl. Distributor:

Synopsis: The six-member crew of the International Space Station is on the cutting edge of one of the most important discoveries in human history: the first evidence of extraterrestrial life on Mars. As the crew begins to conduct research, and their methods end up having unintended consequences, the life form proves more intelligent than anyone ever expected.

Ghost In The Shell

Released: Genre: Est box office: Director: Film cast: Certificate: Distributor:

31st March 2017 Action, Drama, Crime £5,000,000 Rupert Sanders Scarlett Johansson TBC Paramount

Smurfs: The Lost Village Released: Genre: Est box office: Director: Film cast: Certificate: Distributor:

31st March 2017 Animation, Family £10,000,000 Kelly Asbury Demi Lovato, Rainn Wilson U Sony Pictures Intl.

Synopsis: A mysterious map sets Smurfette and her friends Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty on an exciting race through the Forbidden Forest leading to the discovery of the biggest secret in Smurf history.

Synopsis: The Major (Scarlett Johansson) is a special ops, one-of-a-kind, human-cyborg hybrid who leads an elite task force known as Section 9. Devoted to stopping the most dangerous criminals and extremists, she faces an enemy whose singular goal is to wipe out Hanka Robotics' advancements in cyber technology.

Power Rangers Released: Genre: Est box office: Director: Film cast: Certificate: Distributor:

24th March 2017 Action, Sci-Fi, Fantasy £8,000,000 Dean Israelite Naomi Scott, Becky G. RJ Cyler TBC Lionsgate Films

Synopsis: Five ordinary teens must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove - and the world - is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it's too late, band together as the Power Rangers.

The Time Of Their Lives Released: Genre: Est box office: Director: Film cast: Certificate: Distributor:

10th March 2017 Comedy £3,000,000 Roger Goldby Joan Collins, Pauline Collins, Ronald Pickup TBC Vertigo Films

Synopsis: Determined to gatecrash her ex-lover's funeral on glamorous French hideaway Ilede-Re, former Hollywood siren Helen (Joan Collins) escapes her London retirement home with the help of Priscilla (Pauline Collins), a repressed English housewife stuck in a bad marriage.

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easter days out Where history comes alive

This Easter there are more reasons to visit the award-winning Roman Baths. The world-famous site is bringing Roman bathing to life with stateof-the art technology, allowing visitors to see how the East Baths would have been used in ancient times. There are also drop-in family workshops on bathing, Roman style, to get younger visitors’ imaginations overﬂowing. The East Baths, part of the historic complex, have been updated with new projections, soundscapes and CGI reconstructions. These show the Roman Baths at the height of their popularity as a working, living and leisure space. The newly installed technology portrays Roman characters of all social classes interacting with each other. Visitors are invited to watch, listen and step into the Roman Baths as they would have looked in the ﬁrst to fourth centuries.

Roam around Bath's outstanding

Museums & Galleries There is much for Bath to be proud of; a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, its independent, creative and unique stlye, the breathtaking views - not to mention its rugby team. As the winter jumpers and scarves are beginning to ﬁnd their way to the back of the wardrobe, and with the last couple of years proving that some of the better weather comes this way at the start of spring, there is no better time for the family to get out for the day and visit some of Bath's outstanding museums and galleries. Bath has more museums in just one square mile than most other much larger cities can boast altogether.

If you have a penchant for science, fashion, breathtaking art, industry or architecture, there will be a location somewhere in the city and its surrounds that will cater for your every whim. Many of the cities museums and galleries are set in, and around, beautiful historic buildings where visitors can observe fascinating collections free of charge. Throughout the holiday period you will also ﬁnd that many sites will hold workshops, talks and activities targeted at children and families. With this in mind, we have highlighted the best museums and galleries and asked them what is on offer this Easter.

Many of the cities museums AND galleries are set in, and around, beautiful historic buildings where visitors can observe fascinating collections free of charge. 40 inbath

Around the site visitors can also meet with, and talk to, costumed Roman characters that work and play around the complex, including Candidina, a lady from Metz who is visiting the Temple of Sulis Minerva to pray for a cure for her deteriorating eyesight. Younger visitors can also follow child-friendly trails and listen to a special audioguide designed exclusively for them. Narrated by Michael Rosen it features the young Romans Belator and Apulia, who talk about their lives in Roman Bath. This Easter’s family event will be all about ‘Bathing Beauties’. There is no extra price for this drop-in event being held on Tuesday 18 April. The fun doesn’t stop when they get home. If a visit has got them bursting with enthusiasm for all things Roman we have some great interactive games on the children’s page at www.romanbaths.co.uk. Here they can design their own Roman coin or learn Roman Numerals and draw themselves as a Roman. The Roman Baths is also celebrating after winning Gold Award in the South West Tourism Awards for best large visitor attraction in the South West for the second year and the Silver Award for top international visitor experience. For anyone living in Bath & North East Somerset, entry is free to the Roman Baths with a Residents Discovery Card. Paying visitors can also buy a Season ticket which last for three years and gives free entry to the Roman Baths, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery. The Roman Baths is open daily. Mar- 16 Jun: 09:00-17:00, exit 18:00; Facebook: TheRomanBaths Twitter: @RomanBathsBath Instagram: theromanbaths

WHERE IMAGINATIONS OVERFLOW Step in to Roman history with a visit to the Roman Baths www.romanbaths.co.uk

bath's outstanding museums and galleries

#royalcrescent250 Bath Preservation Trust is leading an exciting city-wide project throughout 2017, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Royal Crescent in Bath.

Saturday 18 March – Sunday 18 June

working with light, and knowledge of the chemistry of early photographic processes.

An exhibition of botanical photograms by scientist and artist, Jan Ramscar, on display at the Fox Talbot Museum at Lacock, Britain’s birthplace of photography.

‘Although they start as a science,’ says Roger Watson, curator of the Fox Talbot Museum at Lacock Abbey, ‘it’s impossible to deny how artistic Jan’s images are. They are created in the exact same spirit as Talbot - you can draw plants all you want but the best way to capture their intrinsic beauty is through photography.’

at the Fox Talbot Museum, Lacock

Following in the footsteps of early photographic pioneers, Jan Ramscar’s botanical projection photograms are created without the use of a camera. Working in a darkroom, Jan shines light through flowers and seeds onto photographic paper to create unique and intricate images of some of the smallest elements of the natural world. ‘Each image is completely unique and unrepeatable,’ says Jan, ‘much like a monoprint in Art … so these images cross the boundary between photography and Fine Art.’ It is fitting for Jan’s work to be displayed at Lacock, where William Henry Fox Talbot invented the world’s first photographic negative in 1835. A scientist with a keen interest in botany, Talbot also produced photograms of this kind, although Victorian technology meant they were confined to black and white, a far cry from Jan Ramscar’s vivid and otherworldly images. Jan’s professional background is in science, and the production of her images is undoubtedly scientific, requiring an understanding of botany,

By magnifying some of the smallest specimens of plant life for her images, Jan reveals details that can usually only be seen through a microscope, allowing the intricacies of the natural world to be truly appreciated. ‘There are no straight lines, everything is soft curves,’ Roger adds, ‘you can’t beat nature – it’s had 14 million years to get it right.’ ‘Plants in a different light’ is on display at the Fox Talbot Museum in Lacock from Saturday 18 March to Sunday 18 June and is free with normal admission. The Fox Talbot Museum at Lacock Abbey is open to visitors throughout the year. National Trust members and under 5s go free. Lacock is near Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 2LG. For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock

Family fun at AMIB 1920s Jazz Age: Fashion and Photographs Launch Saturday 18 March, 10.30am-5pm Experience the Roaring ‘20s on our opening weekend. See Model A and Model T American cars courtesy of the Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum, learn to dance the Charleston, and make your own 1920s accessories to take home. You can even have your face painted as a showgirl or mobster! Dance workshops suitable for all ages and experience levels. Included with gardens admission.Visitors who arrive dressed in 1920s costume will be given free entry. Easter Paper Crafts Thursday 20 April, 12-3pm Come along and make 1920s inspired Easter paper crafts. Drop-in, age 3+. Included with gardens admission. For more details: www.americanmuseum.org

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Exhibitions

No. 1 Royal Crescent until 4 June From Rome to the Royal Crescent traces the evolution of classical architecture from the ancient monuments of Rome, through the innovation of the Renaissance to the modern designs of C18th Britain through the beautiful models made by Timothy Richards. These highly detailed models of key buildings show the story of design and reveal why the Royal Crescent looks the way it does. Come and look inside the models, see how they were made, and learn their stories! Museum of Bath Architecture until 4 June We are ‘exploding’ a model of No. 1 Royal Crescent and suspending the bits and pieces to show how the building was constructed 250 years ago! The Royal Crescent Deconstructed will reveal how the architects, stonemasons, carpenters and other craftsmen used their skills..

Events at No. 1 Royal Crescent Model-making workshop Thursday 13 April 11am – 1pm. Ages 5+

World Heritage Day in Parade Gardens Sunday 23 April. Help us build a replica of Pulteney Bridge using Georgian construction techniques!

Georgian Makeovers

Saturday 1 April 10.30am - 5.30pm. Costume, make-up, professional photograph!

It’s time for a Timeline!

Lower lawn outside No. 1 Royal Crescent. Free public event, building a large-scale timeline of key dates in classical architecture since Ancient Rome.

Springtime Paper Craft Fun

8-23 April. Get crafty and create delicate paper ﬂower pictures.

Easter Holiday Demonstrations

9, 15 and 22 April. Handle objects, try on costumes and discover more about eating, dressing and spring-cleaning 250 years ago. 11am–1pm and 2-4pm

Lacock image: Erythronium dens-canis; Dog's tooth violet - © Jan Ramscar

‘Plants in a different light’ by Jan Ramscar

No other building better represents the architectural innovation, social identity and creative imagination of Georgian Britain than the Royal Crescent in Bath. The foundation stone for this masterpiece of eighteenth century design was laid on 19th May 1767 and since then it has become one of the most famous buildings in Britain. It stands as a doorway through which the history of the Georgian period can be discovered and the architecture of the future inspired.

See how many bunnies you can spot on the Cadbury Egg Hunt at Lacock Abbey this Easter Saturday 8 - Sunday 23 April Can you see the Easter bunnies having fun on the Lacock, camera, artists trail around the abbey grounds? See how many you can spot and claim a delicious Cadbury treat when you're done. £2.00 per trail, normal admission applies.

nationaltrust.org.uk/features/jointhe-cadbury-egg-hunts #nationaltrust

When you join, donate, visit or volunteer, your support helps us to look after special places in the South West such as Lacock Abbey and The Courts Garden, Holt for ever, for everyone.

Holburne Museum springs into a new season of outstanding events for all ages Bruegel: Deﬁning a Dynasty

11 February to 4 June 2017 Roper Gallery £10/£9 concs FREE entry to all Museum Members Under 16s go FREE (Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult) UK’s first exhibition devoted to the Bruegel dynasty includes newly discovered paintings in the Holburne Museum’s own collection.

Wednesday 22 March, 3pm – 4pm Dr Jamie Edwards £7 or£11 (which includes exhibition entry redeemable before 4 June) This lecture will explore the fascinating imagery within Pieter Bruegel the Elder's Parable of the Blind (1568), relating it to contemporary social, political and artistic conditions. The talk will reveal the popularity of the proverb of the Blind Men more generally in Netherlandish culture.

The Holburne Museum is proud to announce the UK’s ﬁrst exhibition devoted to the Bruegel dynasty, including recent attributions for two paintings from the Museum’s own collection. The Holburne Museum is proud to announce the UK’s first exhibition devoted to the Bruegel dynasty, including recent attributions for two paintings from the Museum’s own collection. Bruegel: Defining a Dynasty unravels the complex Bruegel family tree, revealing the originality and diversity of Antwerp’s famous artistic dynasty across four generations through 29 works, including masterpieces from the National Gallery, Royal Collection Trust, the National Trust, the Fitzwilliam Museum, the Ashmolean Museum and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts.

Easter Eggstravaganza

Sunday 9 April, 12-4pm FREE Family Fun Come and enjoy an afternoon of creative activities inspired by the peasants, proverbs, tulips, butterflies and beetles in our colourful exhibition Bruegel: Defining a Dynasty.

Bruegel's Blind Leading the Blind (1568): The Original and Its Afterlife

44 inbath

How to ﬁnd a lost Brueghel

Thursday 23 March, 7pm – 8pm Bendor Grosvenor £15 (includes entry to Bruegel: Defining a Dynasty between 6pm – 7pm on the night). Café open 6-7pm In this talk, Dr Bendor Grosvenor will give a masterclass in how to identify lost paintings, including works by major artists such as Pieter Brueghel the Younger, whose newly discovered Wedding Dance features in the Holburne’s current exhibition. Dr Bendor Grosvenor is an art historian and dealer, best known for discovering paintings by artists such as Van Dyck, Rubens and Raphael. He is also a writer and broadcaster, and has presented a number of programmes for the BBC4 series Britain’s Lost Masterpieces, The Culture Show for BBC2, and 'Fake or Fortune?’ for BBC1.

Bruegel Study Afternoon

Friday 31 March, 1.30pm – 5.15pm Chaired by Jennifer Scott and Dr Amy Orrock,

co-curators of the exhibition Bruegel: Defining a Dynasty £25 full price/£10 students

More than meets the eye. A closeup look at paintings from the Bruegel dynasty Dr Dominique Allart and Dr Christina Currie

Pieter Bruegel’s radical Adoration and its aftermath Dr. Susan Foister

Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s Massacre of the Innocents Lorne Campbell and Nicola Christie

Who was Bruegel? Discovering the Master through his Sons

Thursday 11 May, 7pm – 8pm Dr Amy Orrock £10/£14 (includes exhibition entry redeemable before 4 June). Café and exhibition open 6-7pm. ‘Peasant Bruegel’ - highbrow humanist, painter of nature or practical joker? In this lecture Amy Orrock will explore the many identities of the elusive father of the Bruegel dynasty, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, through the legacy of his sons and followers. Focusing on key paintings from the exhibition Bruegel: Defining a Dynasty, the lecture will consider what the works reveal about Bruegel and his admirers throughout the ages.

Anne Desmet RA: Under Changing Skies

Saturday 11 March to Sunday 4 June 2017 Wirth Gallery I Free Distinguished wood engraver Anne Desmet presents a series of journeys through time. These recent prints and mixed media collages will take you to New York, London and an imaginary beyond, exploring the tones and textures of changing seasons, times of day and layers of history. The exhibition will include the first showing of a new series of six engravings, Manhattan, based on the Chrysler Building in New York City. For more details on these and other events, visit: www.holburne.org

BRUEGEL

DEFINING A DYNASTY 11 February to 4 June 2017

PRINCIPAL SPONSOR

WWW.HOLBURNE.ORG Great Pulteney Street, Bath, BA2 4DB

bath's outstanding museums and galleries

Upcoming exhibitions and events at the Victoria Art Gallery History through a Lens: Iconic Photographs from the Incite Project

Until 10 May 2017 This show focuses on single iconic images and their power, proﬁling over 75 photographs that have changed public perception of world events. They have been selected from a collection that specialises in photojournalism and documentary photography. We are used to seeing these images in the press, in transient form, generally accompanied by columns of text, but the Incite Project treats them as works of art. The core of the collection are the classics of 20th-century photojournalism that have become visual markers of a moment in time – the assassination of JFK, a rare shot of the Normandy D-Day landing, Nelson Mandela in his cell on Robben Island, to name but a few.

Here Be Dragons

(with Bath Children’s Literary Festival) From 22 July – 8 October Discover our fabulous den of 2D and 3D dragons – a must for all the family!

First ﬂoor galleries

View for free the most diverse art collection in Bath, with works on display dating from the 16th century right to the present day. In our decorative art gallery you can enjoy hundreds of glittering Georgian glasses and other beautiful items.

Changing displays for 2017 include:

March-May: Grayson Perry’s Map of Days and other prints from the collection

Events for children and adults

Lunchtime exhibition tours

We welcome children. Free art materials, trails and quizzes are always available from our mobile Art Cart. Also free and fun are the themed activities below.

Roving Reporters

Family Events

Every Thursday, 2 March to 27 April inclusive, 12.30-13.00. Free to Discovery Card and ticket holders.

Saturdays 4, 11, 18 & 25 March, 12.00-15.00 Students from Bath Spa University's BA Acting programme convey the human stories behind the images. Let yourself be transported back in time to revisit how those key moments felt. Image: Woman of Sarajevo, Tom Stoddart, 1993

Coming soon

Tom Hickman: following the Thread

Until 10 May 2017 At his home in the small coastal village of New Tolsta on the Isle of Lewis, creating has become a way of life for self-taught artist Tom Hickman, from dry stone walls to wool-work pictures and everything in-between. Whatever the material, he follows his impulse to capture the whimsical, embellish the practical and express the emotional. Using reclaimed Harris Tweed wools he stitches complex high relief stump-work embroidery as well as jovial images of local crofters’ sheep.

Artist’s Talk

Friday 10 March, 11.00-12.00; free.

46 inbath

Free drop-ins (no need to book), all children to be accompanied by an adult

Get Creative

Saturday 8 April, 10.30-12.30 & 13.30-15.30. Join in and let your creativity grow.

Side by Side

Wednesday 19 April, 10.30-12.30 & 13.30 15.30. Ages 3 to 6 Investigate mirror images and create work using mixed media.

600 years of exquisite lace at the Fashion Museum

Easter is the perfect time to pick up inspiration from the Fashion Museum Bath and its new ‘Lace in Fashion’ exhibition. Drawing on the riches of the museum’s collection, as well as generous loans from contemporary fashion designers, the exhibition showcases 50 exquisite pieces, showing how lace has been used in fashion from the 1500s to the present day. The Exhibition Curator, Elly Summers, has worked painstakingly to catalogue the museum’s extensive collection of lace dating from the 1500s to the present day. This research has uncovered many gems from the collection – for example a lace dress made in 1805, which may be the only surviving dress worn by Queen Charlotte. Global British luxury brand Burberry has loaned two looks from its Spring/Summer 2016 collection. Other highlights include a navy blue lace dress worn by Lea Seydoux in the James Bond film Spectre and a 1991 Karl Lagerfeld dress worn by 1990s supermodel Linda Evangelista in British Vogue. The oldest object in the exhibition is a smock dating from 1580-1600. Another of the museum’s rarest treasures also appears in the show: a silver tissue dress, which dates from around 1660. ‘Lace in Fashion’ complements the Fashion Museum’s major exhibition, ‘A History of Fashion in 100 Objects’, which runs until 1 January 2019. Admission to both exhibitions is included in the Fashion Museum ticket. For younger visitors there is a themed trail and a dressing-up area where they can see what it was like to wear coats and hats, dresses and bonnets from the past. Adults can join in the fun too and try on replica Georgian and Victorian clothing, and wigs.

Photo Mix up

This Easter’s family event, ‘Read all about it!’ focuses on designing fashion from newsprint and is free with admission.

Art Store Tours

See www.fashionmuseum.co.uk for details Facebook: fashionmuseum Twitter: @Fashion_Museum Pinterest: fashion_museum

Friday 21 April, 10.30-12.30 & 13.30-15.30. Ages 6 to 11. Create a photo collage.

Wednesdays 15 March, 19 April, 17 May, 14 June, all 12.00-12.45 Explore the parts of the Gallery other people don’t reach. Free, but book in advance on 01225 477232.

Opening times: Jan-Feb 10:30-16:00, exit 17:00; March-Oct 10:30am-17:00, exit 18:00; Nov & Dec 10:3016:00, exit 17:00

A history of American movie memorabilia and collectables

4 February 2017 to 1 January 2018 Drawing on the riches of the Fashion Museum’s Sat 19 March collection, as well as–generous loans from Sun 30 October 2016 this exhibition contemporary fashion designers, showcases 50 exquisite pieces, showing how lace has been used in fashion Claverton Manor, Bath BA2from 7BDthe 1500s to the present day. Tel: 01225 460503 fashionmuseum.co.uk enquiries@americanmuseum.org #LaceinFashion

l love a good . We all love a good C t rs l a ss! americanmuseum.org

Assembly Rooms Bennett Street Bath BA1 20H

It’s F i story...

l love a good . Postal Museum BathBath Postal Museum 27a Northgate Street, Bath, BA1 1AJ 27a Northgate Street, Bath, Registered Charity Number: 277419BA1 1AJ Email: Info@bathpostalmuseum.org Registered Charity Number: 277419 Tel: 0122546033

Email: Info@bathpostalmuseum.org Tel: 0122546033 www.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk

It’s First Class!

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HISTORY THROUGH A LENS

ICONIC PHOTOGRAPHS FROM 25 February – 10 May 2017 Victoria Art Gallery By Pulteney Bridge Bath BA2 4AT 01225 477233 • www.victoriagal.org.uk • Open daily 10.30-5.00 Stuart Franklin, Tiananmen Square, Beijing, 1989 © Stuart Franklin / Magnum Photos

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bath's museums and galleries What's outstanding On In Bath

What's On

May & June Bath Tango School with Eduardo Bozzo of Tango Alchemy Beginners 7.30 - 8.30pm dancing til 9pm Improvers 9.00 - 10pm dancing til 10.30pm £8.00 per class - 4 weeks £28.00 - 8 weeks £56.00 Come and experience the most exciting dance in the world ! at The Gateway Community Centre London Road Bath BA1 5BB www.tangoalchemy.co.uk contact annscollan@btinternet.com

16 May Davina & The Vagabonds Chapel Arts Centre www.chapelarts.org 7:30pm Price: £16

Volunteer at the American 19 May Museum Comedy Club 4 Kids in Britain

BathFest

Komedia Our family of volunteers lie at the very heart ofwww.komediabath.ticketsolve.com the American Museum and play a huge role in3pm our success. Indeed, we are proud to be considered one of the most welcoming heritage Prices: £ 8.50 venues in Bath, a strength due almost entirely to our team of over 150 dedicated and committed 18 May 20 May supported by the front of house team. volunteers, Camille O'Sullivan - Feel Enjoy from Festival Hailing all walks of life, and of all ages, these dedicated and committed men and Komedia Green Park Station women inspire our visitors with their enthusiasm, www.komediabath.ticketsolve.com www.enjoyfestival.co.uk/ knowledge, for American history Camille O'Sullivan enjoys a formidable This event and is setpassion to be unique, uplifting andand fun the decorative arts. international reputation for her dramatic for the whole family. It is highlighting women Bath A Folk Festival Bath Festival Of Motoring Hong Ling’s works tell the story of one artist’s small selection of paintings from ‘Hong Ling 8 – 12 May interpretations of theworld, songshis of Brel, Cave, within business, performance Interested in joiningcreativity us? If so,and we are sure you embrace of the natural personal Retrospective’ Europe touring exhibition is on Vibrant, colourful, calendar, and every year is outdoing The Winslow Boy of East Asian Art (MEAA) socialdevelopment Waits, Bowie and Chameleon-like with markets, food from and around the will findeclectic thespontaneous, Museum to be a hugely rewarding and hismore. versatile creativity.the on more. show at the Museum Shindig Weekender hugely entertaining. last with more and more bands wanting to be on experience. Not only will youperformances be volunteering Mission stage, each song has a different character with globe, thought provoking &in 25The February – 2Theatre July 2017. the line up! 27 - 29 May one of the most stunning locations in Bath, you www.next-stage.co.uk its story to tell. painting – live music and DJ’s to keep you entertained Talk: Chinese will have theFestival chance meetanew colleagues, The curator of the touring exhibition is Professor Bath Folk www.shindig-events.co.uk 7.30pm 8pm throughout the day.toWith great kids space Therean are many things to keep you entertained, introduction make new friends, exchange ideas, and to share McCausland, History of Art of China, The Now inShane it’s third year, Shindig, a gathering of Prices: £10 (£8 Cconcessions) Prices vary19:00 filled with activities, face painting and other 6 14 August in theFri past years there have been cider tents, 3 March – 20:00 and develop your knowledge and skills. School of Oriental and African Studies family and friends, and friends of friends, is (SOAS), delights, there's something to keep everyone hog roasts, bouncy castles, rodeo bulls, face Dr Nicole Chiang (Curator, MEAA) University of London. At the MEAA, the curator www.bathfolkfestival.org a music and dance festival set in beautiful painting, Held at BRLSI fairground rides, stalls sales May 18magician’s, May entertained. ofisour volunteering opportunities are Dr10Nicole edited more BathThe Folkmajority Festival a grass roots festival run countryside nearChiang, Bath over the the 3 days ofextensive the May of festival treats Harryweekend. Bird and The Rubber Wellies view. all kinds Blues Brothers UKand of course all the for Room Guides,and so you must who be a are confident, original show to provide a representative by and for musicians dancers Bank Holiday live music you could want!! outgoing individual, keen to interact with visitors Workshop: Cherry Blossom The touring exhibition Chapel Arts Centre follows the artist’s recent Chapel Arts Centre 20 Mayabout passionate folk culture. - Dr young old, and with communication retirement from thesuch prestigious Central In previous year legends as Norman JayAcademy www.chapelarts.org www.chapelarts.org Philand Hammonds Rudegood Health Show Ink With on sitePainting camping, kids welcome and a great of7.30pm Fine Arts (CAFA), where he taught oil Folk Festival was founded in 2009 and has MBE, Joey Negro, GraemeBeijing, Park and Lindy Sat 18 your March 14:30 – 16:00 Don and fedora .... and join the Bathskills. Komedia atmosphere why shades not come and see what this since 1987. already established a reputation as one of the Laytonpainting have Purdy Price:graced £9 the decks not to mention mission! www.komediabath.ticketsolve.com yearsAili event has(Chinese to offer. painting artist) will already have a goodtoknowledge mostYou exciting new folk festivals emerge inofthe entertainment from the The Cuban Brothers and Held MEAA 7:30atpm If you only see one doctor this year, make it history, butyears a commitment to learning Little Circus. of Hong Ling's art survives from the UK. American Over the last seven we have attracted Moonshine 11 May political era of the Cultural Revolution Price: £14 Dr Phil… more is all acclaimed important, and, this end, weofare unsettled internationally acts to and a wealth Bath Festival Of Motoring Talk:From the Heart of the Yellow investing our writer, Guidesbroadcaster through a When Two Collide: Phil Hammond is in a GP, (1966–76) in Worlds China. areVan twoBarneveld waves localconstantly talent. Enjoy performances all dayThere and live music at of Vs programme of extensive and ongoing training, The Landscape influence Circus on Chinese art: one in the 18 - Mountains: 19 June night inwestern our ‘Moonshine & Cabaret’ tent, Wade and possibly the only comedian to have knowledge sharing and research opportunities. 1920s and 1930s, the other in the 1980s after The festival is run entirely by volunteers and hang outBath in the ‘Tutti Frutti’ Cocktail Beach Bar Paintings of Hong Ling Pavilion appeared ata public inquiry. He is Private Eye’s www.bathfestivalofmotoring.com call ourmusic, Volunteers Sharon Cultural Hongmusic Ling belongs aimsPlease to bring folk danceManager, and storytelling or visitthe The Dig InnRevolution, for drinks and till late. to The Rotary Fri 7 April 19:00 – 20:00 Club of Bath’s Festival of Motoring www.bathpavilion.org medical correspondent and has appeared on Blanchard, on 01225 823017 to chat about how thedawn latter.at The Ghetto Funk Nightclub. to all areas of Bath. Party till Maryagain Redfern of the East Asian this (Curator year for Father’s Day For one night only! Van Barneveld Vs Wade will beDrback Have GotAmerican News forMuseum You, Thecould NewsbeQuiz, you andI the the The Collections, Chester BeattyThe Library, Dublin) weekend, June 18th and 19th. family-friendly Athe select fewKids from thewas audience will be Now Show, The One2016 Show and Countdown. fit.Competition 1990s, his work richly informed by hischarity Newperfect Shoots FamilyIn fun includes Kingdom, a fortress of lucky Held at BRLSI. event – which last year gave over 6,000 enough to play across against one of theseand twomany well visitors the chance to get up close and personal 8pm extensive travels Asia, WIN A DAY OF RECORDING AT PETER fun devoted to the younger folkChina, with workshops, GABRIEL’S REAL WORLD STUDIOS remote of players, the world. During thisaplus time, he with 500 vintage and classic cars & motorbikes, climbing nets, parts storytelling, singing, dancing known darts followed by head-toPrices vary Talk: Encounters Between also started setting up his studio residence an indoor cinema an amazing Circus to end in as well as the very latest prestige Supercars – is head Van and Barneveld vs Wade. & Western We aim to seek out and nurture the very best the region of Mount Huangshan, a picturesque beingChinese the day. held at Lansdown, oppositeArt the Park & 7.45pm 22 May new folk talent. To do this, we are giving fresh, UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Anhui ProvinceRide. Fri 19 May 19:00 – 20:00 or VIP £50then, + booking fee has FISH:folk Full Electric Band Show Dr Zhu Ling unsigned acts the chance to compete for our inPrices: eastern£20 China. Since Hong Ling BathFest Komedia (Chinesewhich painting specialist, & Turnbull) top prize: a day’s recording at Peter Gabriel’s focussed exclusively on landscape painting, The Festival, includes tradeLyon stands and 13 May www.komediabath.ticketsolve.com at BRLSI legendary Real World Studios. encapsulating the traditions of Chinese aesthetica hostHeld 28 May of entertainment for all ages, will raise philosophies with western oil painting medium. funds for two main charities: – ‘Freewheelers’, The Little Big Club Few artists have achieved near-mythic www.bathfest.co.uk out more about motorcyclists these events and areina the younger or “more mature” Working inRoyal parallel studios in Huangshan and whichFind Theatre cultyou status way that Scottish singerprovides volunteer whoothers at: Whether 10,000 young music fans from Bath are expected www.meaa.org.uk performer, if your act is new to the folk scene Beijing, devoted to both oil and ink painting, transport blood and other essential life saving songwriter Fish has. to attendwww.theatreroyal.org.uk this year’s BATHFEST on 28th May at and you do not yet have a recording contract, we products around the country ‘Time to development Share’ Bath Racecourse. Times: 1pm & 3.30pm "Bath has played a vital –role in the would8pm love to hear from you. an organisation which arranges supportthe andBritish of communications, and improving Prices: Children £10, Adults £12 Prices vary services to improve the lives ofboast disabled children BATHFEST have announced postal service. It can thus many "firsts" Family Ticket (for 4) their £40 lineup which in Bath. Jane22Austen Festival includes 99 SOULS /CHAMPION / DJ S.K.T / as you will discover when you visit this -26 May A unique surviving Victorian Boating Station LOW STEPPA / PREDITAH and SNAKEHIPS to fascinating museum. If you cant get to Bath, 9 18 September 14a–few. 16 May Henry V restaurant,The Bathwick Boatman. Further information, including onoftickets, is name just with onsite a comprehensive browsing this website will available the Bath Festival of Motoring DNA 18 from Mayhow Theatre Royal illustrate the postal service played a major www.janeaustenfestivalbath.co.uk 10 wonderful days celebrating all things Austen website. Theatre Royal An in Appointment The Waterboys BATHFEST Event Organisers are ready for this Awww.theatreroyal.org.uk living museum with traditional wooden skiffs, part linking areaswith of the world". in the beautiful Georgian city of Bath. year’s event to be bigger and better. punts and canoes bywould the hour or day, www.theatreroyal.org.uk The Forum "O for a muse of for fire,hire that ascend The some over 100 years old. A pleasant way to Visit usWATERBOYS in our modern and Glastonbury Festival 2016interactive Times Vary THE wereexciting formed in 1983 brightest heaven ofgrows invention: Each year an thehour Festival, and grows with spend or day on the River Avon with its museum in the same building as the City of Bath Prices: £7 / £5.50 Children & Students by Mike Scott and became famous for their more Apeople kingdom for a in stage, princes to act, and PittFest 2016 Regency costume 22 -Post 26 June abundantdressing wildlife, kingfi shers, herons, swans, Offi ce. At Bath Postal Museum there is powerful live performances and majestic Monarchs to behold the of swelling scene." celebrating the life andetc. works Jane Austen. 3 - 4 June geese, moorhens Even the otter was seen something for everyone. We provide colourful, www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk 14 – 19 May alternative rock albums such as A Pagan Place Shakespeare’s Globe returns to Bath to present several times last year! frequently changing exhibitions, A unique feast of music set on a hugeinteractive site www.pittfest.co.uk events are organised by The Diary of Anne Frank and This Theof Sea, whichand included their and Throughout Henry the V, incity a large-scale, epic production games andIs quizzes, models collectables offering a grand scale entertainment unlike Pittfest is a mini festival with everything you need team under stretch the 2012 guidance Jackie This is awill verylaunch pretty of summer river,ofmeandering feature historic talking heads‚ where actors bring the Festival any other festival the world. ForThe fiveMoon. days Theatrenight Royal biggest hit in The Whole Of which the season in for a awesome of mayhem! Herring the Festival Director. out into theafter countryside & Entrance ending at to theeach village to life.There alsoplays plenty to do 2,000portraits acres around Pilton is farm host to afor www.theatreroyal.org.uk 7.30PM London a brief tour. event is by ticket and those go on sale at the of Bathampton where there is a lovely pub right who can play mail computer tentedyoung city invisitors, Somerset. As well asthe music from Times vary Price: £30.50 Stalls, £27 Balcony (PRICE Times vary It was Created in 2007 at Stothert and Pitt RFC Bath Festivals Box Office a few months before by the river. try on costumeson and play our stunning nearlychallenge, every genre imaginable over 100 (The Cranes) the social secretary Dan Smith Prices:by£16.50 - £32.50 INCLUDES £2 PER TICKET BOOKING FEE)the start. Prices: £17.50 -a£33.50 Becoming Friend of the Jane Austen Potholes Pitfalls‚ board game. stages, there'sand performing arts with cabaret, as a fundraiser for the club, since it’s launch it Festival ensures youabout get first choice of tickets, To find out more Bath Boating Station, go theatre, circus, children's entertainment, poetry, has grown to be the main event in the cranes essential for those events with limited numbers. to: www.bathboating.co.uk Find out more healing, green craftswww.bathpostalmuseum.co.uk and information and much

Hong Ling - Selected at M.E.A.A

Bath Boating Station: A living Museum

Bath's First Class Postal Museum

4 inbath 48

What's On In Bath 22 – 24 May Punk Rock Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Time: 7.30pm Prices: £7 / £5.50 Children & Students 23 May Alfie Moore: I Predicted a Riot Rondo Theatre www.rondotheatre.co.uk/ 8pm Price: £12, £10 Concessions 23 May Michael Winslow - The Man of 10,000 Voices Komedia www.komediabath.ticketsolve.com 8pm 25 May – 10 June Bath Fringe Festival Various Bath Fringe is a 17-Day festival of all the arts, The Great Bath Feast in the Beautiful City of Bath. See page 12 & 13 for details

25 – 26 May A Midsummer Nights Dream Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.org.uk Times vary Tickets: Prices: £7 / £5.50 Children & Students

Handel, Elgar, Vaughan Williams and Parry through to the arrangers of today, Rutter, Chilcott and Sir David Willcox. Add to that melodies from Lionel Bart, Elton John and the Beatles to guarantee something for everyone to enjoy. James Scott will play the Abbey Organ and also appearing will be the Bath Good Afternoon Choir conducted by Francis Faux. The concert compere is the 784th Mayor of Bath, Cllr Bryan Chalker, who will be marking the closing of his year of office. 7.30pm This exhibition showcases paintings Price: £10 Under 16'S £5

HONG LING - SELECTED

25 February - 2 July 2017

25 May The Johnny Cash Roadshow Chapel Arts Centre www.chapelarts.org The Johnny Cash Roadshow, a show not to be missed by avid fans or the casual listener. This year prepare for a musical adventure unrivalled by any other that truly celebrates the career of a music legend, Johnny Cash.

by the celebrated Chinese painter Hong Ling 26 from Maydifferent stages of his career. Macbeth The Lord Chamberlains Men

ThisBotanical is a small selection paintings 26 May Garden's, RoyalofVictoria Park Take punt 60 Years - A Diamond Jubilee Celebration 7.30pm from theaHong Ling on Retrospective Bath Abbey Price: Adult £14.50, Child £8.50 Bath Boating Station exhibition touring Europe.

www.grenvillejones.biz/ Presented by Grenville Jones. A spectacular 27 May Jubilee evening of musicAand songsurviving is promised Hamilton's Hat onsite of Doom unique VictorianAndy Boating Station with restaurant, iin the magnificent surroundings of Bath Komedia The Bathwick Boatman. Abbey. See pages 14 & 15 details A living museum with traditional wooden skiffs, punts and canoes for hire Music man Grenville Jones is joining forces byathe hour or day, some over old. A pleasant way to spend an with the Abbey to present very special 28 100 Mayyears – 2 June hour or day on the River Avon with its abundant wildlife, kingfishers, herons, Jubilee Celebration of music representing the Ladies In Lavender swans, geese, moorhens etc. Even the otter was seen last sixty years of the Queen's reign. Theatre Royal several times last year! Manor, Bath The Abbey will resound Claverton to tunes that link with www.theatreroyal.org.uk 12 Bennett Street, Bath BA1 2QJ the coronation as well asPunting songs01225 toisevoke fond and aLadies in Lavender tells the tale two a speciality quick lesson is given before youof set off,sisters to make tel: 460503 www.meaa.org.uk | 01225 464640 you of are heading in the Ursula right direction. The punts two paddles as memories of the last six sure decades popular and Janet who livehave in a close-knit www.americanmuseum.org wellwill as the British music. The evening raisepole. money fishing village in picturesque Cornwall, in for six of Bath's lesser-known community 1937. enquiries@americanmuseum.org This is a very pretty stretch of river, meandering out into the countryside & groups. Times vary ending at the village of Bathampton where there is a lovely pub right Masters of music will beby represented - from Prices: £17.50 - £33.50 the river. www.bathboating.co.uk

this Summer

and the festivals keep Come oncoming a journeyin through

30 - 31 May Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Komedia www.komediabath.ticketsolve.com 7.30pm Prices vary

2016

Bath International Music Festival 2012 See Pages 16 & 17

Bath Children's Literature Festival 30 September - 9 October www.bathfestivals.org

We all love a good story...

D isc Fr ove ee ry En C try ard

the history of America 30 May June 14– 10March – 1 November 2015

BATH BATHBOATING BOATING STATION STATION

Staged in association with headline media partner, The Telegraph, and retail partner Waterstone’s Booksellers, the Bath Festival of Children’s Literature was established in 2007 by Bath-based children’s publishing professionals Gill and John McLay.

Great Bath Feast 1 - 31 October www.greatbathfeast.co.uk

In w £7 g d

Bath is a handsome city at any time of year but in autumn it positively glows. Great food and drink is just one of many reasons to visit this golden Georgian gem. This is a city that attracts ambitious young chefs, drawn not just by the beauty of the place and the countryside that surrounds it, but by the provenance of the south-west. Typically, chefs work hand in hand with their suppliers to create menus that are both seasonal and locally sourced.

Volunteer with us and open a whole New up The film festival is a long awaited treat forWorld the city of Bath, with screenings

of previews, documentary features, F-Rated films (highlighting women in film, on and off screen), Q&As with directors, producers and stars, it's a great 11 days, and screenings can sell out fast, so do buy your tickets early.

Sch and

Firs and you the boa just Eng like

This is the largest dedicated children’s book festival in the UK, and presents over 80 public, ticketed events and an extensive programme of events in schools.

Bath Film Festival 3 - 13 November www.bathfilmfestival.org.uk

M s F

BRING THISADVERT ADVERT AND PAY BRING THIS AND PAY ADULTS: £ 11.00 ADULTS: £ 11.00 CHILDREN: £ 5.50 CHILDREN: FAMILY TICKET££5.50 30.00 FAMILY TICKET: £ 30.00 (2 Adults & 2 Children) ALL DAY - 10am - 5.30pm ALL DAY - 10am - 5.30pm

Contact: 01225 823017

Bath Mozartfest Bath Postal Museum Northgate Street, Bath, BA1 1AJ 11coordinator@americanmuseum.org - 19 November 27a Registered Charity Number: 277419 Email: Info@bathpostalmuseum.org www.bathmozartfest.org.uk

www.americanmuseum.org

Tel: 0122546033 Over the past 25 years Bath Mozartfest has built an enviable reputation for artistic excellence in chamber and orchestral music. In its annual 9-day, Claverton Manor, Bath BA2 7BD 16-concert, festival each November it presents the finest classical music performed by world-renowned artists. Excellent ticket sales, capacity audiences, and glowing national broadsheet reviews confirm this.

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property

Internal affairs So what will the home of 2017 look like on the inside? We speak to some of the cities most respected voices to find out what they feel the interior of 2017 will entail. From tropical prints to copper and brass, we consider the kitchen, bathroom and living spaces.

Clair Strong Interior Design The home of 2017 will be big, bright, and bold. After the soft and serene Scandi-inspired looks of previous years, there seems to have been a shift towards vibrant maximalism. On a philosophical level, this could be a reaction to recent political and social events. When things seem a bit dark and gloomy, the world of art and design often swings the opposite way.

hard minimalist) but they are quite loud, so I recommend exercising a bit of caution. An accent wall in palm leaf wallpaper or a few well-placed botanical cushions can be really effective. More than that and you risk overwhelming the eye. Green – in all its verdant glory – is a great colour to use in the home as it represents balance and harmony. It’s a natural companion to the tropical trend too. ‘Greenery’; a mossy, spring-like hue is Pantone’s Colour of the Year but I prefer emerald. It’s a warm and inviting tone that always feels a bit opulent and indulgent. Plus it goes remarkably well with a lot of other colours.

Brass is a great choice if you want something rugged and industrial, but still glamorous. Pair with raw, natural materials like timber, clay and cork or for a sleeker finish; marble. On an aesthetic level, I think after years of magnolia reigning supreme, people are simply craving more colour. So we’re seeing bright hues, playful patterns and warm materials replace cool neutrals and subtle detailing. There have been a lot of interior design trends forecast for 2017. I’ve picked three that go really well together and can be made as maximalist or minimalist as you like. They are: tropical prints, the colour green (in part inspired by Pantone’s colour of the year) and brass. Tropical prints are everywhere, from cushions and curtains to wallpaper and furniture. They can look amazing (and I say that as a die-

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Various metallic materials have come and gone over the past few years. It started with gold before moving swiftly onto copper and now brass is the metal du jour. Brass is a great choice if you want something rugged and industrial, but still glamorous. Pair with raw, natural materials like timber, clay and cork or for a sleeker finish; marble. Clair Strong Interior Design is a small, friendly, creative business based in Bath and London, providing services for residential and commercial clients. Visit: clairstrong.co.uk or contact: clair@clairstrong.co.uk.

Choosing art for your home

Are you struggling to find the ‘right’ painting to complete your living room? Or are you looking to design a whole new décor for your home, but want to start with a dramatic piece of artwork? With art having such a big influence on how your home looks and feels, finding something that ticks all the boxes can prove a real challenge. Naomi Pound, Design Director at Kersfield, has teamed up with Bridget Sterling, Director at local gallery, Bath Contemporary, to choose artwork for the show house at the stunning new Lansdown Fields development by Kersfield. The resulting pieces help to show off the show house’s best features, while making the space feel ‘lived in’. Here, they share their top tips on how to choose the best pieces for your home …

Know where to look

If you’re new to buying art, knowing where to start can be one of the most daunting aspects. “With the internet such a popular starting point for all kinds of purchasing decisions these days, people often think it’s better to approach artists directly online, rather than going through a gallery,” explains Bridget. “But what they don’t realise is that, if an artist is being represented by a gallery, their work will sell at the same price as when buying directly. We simply make sure their work gets seen by more people and manage the sale, which is something most artists prefer not to do.” Naomi also recommends visiting the Affordable Art Fair, plus taking in exhibitions at art schools, where you may meet talented emerging young artists eager for a commission.

Have a budget in mind

Unless you have thousands to splash on whatever may take your fancy, it’s worth having a maximum figure in mind. This will help keep you grounded in those ‘wow’ moments, when you spot something you love, but which far exceeds your price range.

For entry-level buyers in particular, Bridget she strongly recommends original prints. Unlike a giclée print, which is a reproduction print produced on an ink-jet printer, an original print has been hand printed by an artist. With prices starting at around £50-£100, they don’t have to be an expensive option and they hold their value far more than a reproduction.

Create a ‘flow’

At a basic level, this means choosing colours that complement each other – either matching a piece of artwork to your existing colour scheme, or picking two or three colours from the piece and adding accents from that around the room. Similarly, try to repeat shapes and angles throughout your scheme. “For example, if your furniture features hard, industrial edges, choose artwork that incorporates sharp lines and angles,” says Naomi. “It’s about making sure that nothing jars and everything ‘talks’ to each other. This creates a more comfortable space.”

Consider your space

Whichever room you’re buying for, Naomi’s advice is to think about the atmosphere you’d like to create there. “Some artists have a noisy energy to their style and their work often fits well within busy environments such as kitchens and living areas. As you would expect, quieter pieces work better in rooms where you might want to create a calmer setting, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.”

architectural features to ‘breathe’ – so it’s important to go for a scale that’s in proportion to the surroundings,” adds Naomi.

Think before you hang

So, you’ve found ‘the one’ and you’re keen to get it up on the wall as soon as possible. But, as Bridget points out, there are certain ‘rules’ when it comes to hanging artwork. “It sounds obvious, but try not to hang paintings too high, even if you have high ceilings – they should be at eye level, not above your head! That’s a mistake people make a lot.” And how do you make sure your new piece is shown off to its best advantage? This is where good lighting comes in. “Picture lights can interfere with the artwork, so instead, I’d recommend recessed down-lighters – especially if they’re directional, so you can angle them to wash the wall with light without shining directly on your piece,” advises Naomi.

Find an emotional connection

Whether it reminds you of a special holiday, a specific memory, or just gives you a good feeling, both Naomi and Bridget agree that by far the most important factor to consider when buying art for your home is finding an emotional connection. As Bridget says: “You must buy art because you love it. You’ll know when you have it because the piece will jump off the wall and wrap itself around you!” Naomi adds: “It’s vital to remember that artwork will become the focal point of a room. It absolutely carries the interiors so it’s important to really consider it quite carefully. It’s probably one of the single most important purchases you’ll make for your interior.

It’s also important to make sure you consider scale.

“But as long as you go for something you truly connect with, you won’t go too far wrong.”

“I don’t think artwork should ever dominate the architecture of a home – it should allow

www.kersfield.co.uk www.bathcontemporary.com

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property

Expert tips on Interior Design by Abigail Ahern Designer, stylist and owner of one of London's leading Interiors stores, Abigail Ahern is passionate about design. Here, Abigail gives us a few tips and ideas of how to tackle an interior makeover. Can Interior Design be taught or do you need to have an eye for it? I think it’s a bit of a mixture – I have an eye, always have, so automatically know what and what doesn’t work. However learning it trains your eye, makes you see things in a different way and gets you to think out of the box so to speak. Decorating is more than anything else about confidence – as soon as you study it the confidence comes.

kitchens

Most clients of mine prefered the matt/soft touch textures of door frontals but I really think that the glosses are going to become popular again this year.

Should you have a definitive design in mind or should a design be organic? With me often times its organic – I always work on something - a wall colour or covering and that often dictates the scheme. With clients you have to be way more defininitive obviously but its still pretty organic, I’m often working with a large piece of artwork or piece of furniture that they love which again inspires the scheme. Is a good design about taking risks or following your heart rather than your head? Good design is about following your heart, there is no point taking risks purely to be gimmicky or on trend, you’ve got to love it and don’t let the head rationalize. Follow your gut its held me in pretty good sted! Are there any design secrets when working with either larger or smaller spaces? No, the more barriers you put up because a space is small or large the more restricted the room feels I find. Decorate every room no matter the size like a palace, don’t compromise and don’t think you have to put small scale furniture in small rooms and vice versa. You can find more tips, advice and interior ideas in Abigail's book: DECORATING WITH STYLE, published by Quadrille (£16.99)

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something that will not 'date' but is a combination that goes with most properties. Most clients of mine prefered the matt/soft touch textures of door frontals but I really think that the glosses are going to become popular again this year.

Kelly-Marie Hicks Homemaker Bath As we enter the new year of 2017, with all the uncertainty as we prepare to leave the EU, I believe the interiors market will continue to grow as many of my own clients are staying in their properties or extending them. Most clients wanting to achieve that 'open-plan' effect and large entertaining spaces.This is something that will be very popular for years to come and really is very effective as long as everything is linked to give it continuity. In terms of colour trends, last year saw different dramatic shades of grey, mixed with clean whites and natural floors such as limestone or woods. I really believe this trend will continue and is rather

My predictions are that dark dramtic blues will be popular this year and this mixed with coppers and golds which could be rather amazing. My personal favourites are mixing woods with lacquered frontals so ash could look rather great with deep blue! I generally advise most client to have quartz or granite worktops but this year the new ceramic worktops could really kick off with all the advantages they carry.... Most of my sales last year were handle-less and I believe that this is still going to be popular but I also like to make each kitchen unique so sometimes handles can really give the client something different!

Exploding a few bed-buying myths

BEDROOMS “For Sale: Brand new unused unregistered car with 15 years guarantee, delivered from registered dealer. Money back after 60 days if you don’t like it. As seen on TV: ONLY £2000!!! (Was £4000)” Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Would you fall for it? Or would you at least think, “Hold on a doggone minute! The dealer has to pay his employees, refund money on returned models, pay for advertising, and pay for premises, etc., and make a profit; the manufacturer has to make a profit; the component suppliers have to make a profit; the guarantee provider has to make profit; the raw materials suppliers have to make a profit, and the delivery company has to make a profit. So what can there possibly be in the car that is of any decent and lasting quality?” How many times have you heard it said of consumer offers, “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true”? And yet countless thousands of people are prepared to pay “one-nine-nine” for a new bed that is supposedly going to help them sleep better. Of course, if their current bed is worn out, shabby and unhygienic, then ANYTHING would probably be better. But, honestly, how long do you really think that one-nine-nine “bargain” bed is going to last and give you a good night’s sleep? So, after a short while and because you spend up to one-third of your life trying to sleep in it, the base becomes rickety and squeaky, the mattress becomes hot, malodorous and lumpy, and your sleep is disturbed by your kicking yourself over the money you wasted. So, forgetting the “look”: what’s “on trend” in beds right now? Firstly, more than anything else, it is the realisation that good quality nights give you good quality days. Like vitamin D, sleep is an absolute essential when it comes to good health. Articles and features about sleep are everywhere nowadays: in health and beauty magazines, newspaper articles, TV programmes, sleep “science” books. As a topic of interest It seems third only to the weather and terrorism. Secondly, it’s the general realisation that the more you pay, the better the bed, but only if you’re dealing with a bona fide independent specialist retail-proprietor who knows their stuff.

(You’ll get to talk to them in person; they have a reputation to build and maintain; and they’re not buying beds by the 1000s, or holding expensive stock that their sales-people are cajoled if not almost bullied into selling to the unwitting bargain-hunter). Thirdly, it’s the realisation that things aren’t always what they seem when it comes to bed marketing. For example: “The more springs the better.” If a spring were a spring were a spring, that could well be true. But when one spring is almost as small as a clock-spring whilst another is over a metre long, you can see why some mattresses have 800 springs while others the same size allegedly has 13000! (Most in the latter are tiny, and arguably simply replace layers of good quality upholstery). Or, “Firm is best.” A complete generation, now in their 50s and 60s, was fooled into buying “orthopaedic” mattresses. For 20 years or more they got up from their medical-sounding mattresses (“so they must be good”) with backache that lasted half the day until their muscles had pulled their unsupported spines back into alignment. Or, “Replace your bed every seven years.” Would you need to replace your high-quality car every seven years? Nowadays many beds have 10 years guarantees, and are expected with care and proper use to perform satisfactorily for much longer. At least we could be honest and say “You’ll need to replace your cheap bed long before seven years have passed.” Fourthly, it’s the realisation that “thirty or sixty” days to love your bed or return it sounds fantastic but the question remains: “What really happens to the beds that are returned”? Are they really thrown away or given to charity? Or do they re-enter the manufacturing chain to be recycled, recovered and sold again as new?” If your retailer offers that service, how do you truly know that the bed you buy from him to replace it hasn’t been slept on before. Last, but by no means least: it’s the realisation that you don’t have to “try” a bed before you buy it. Ten, twenty or thirty minutes of prodding, pushing and embarrassment in a public showroom will tell you nothing. Only time will tell, and that can be half a day, a week or even months. Good, professional advice from renowned retailers with lots of customers happy to vouch for it, can be found half a world away. That’s often far better than a few finger-prods and handpresses in your local “bed-shed.” You may just as well kick the tyre of that bargain car!

Bedroom Trends for 2017

They say that trends are cyclical, that if you give it enough time, then certain trends will come back into fashion. Well, get ready for the most unlikely decade to make a comeback transforming the bedroom; the 1980's.

Fortunately, we aren't talking tight perms, mullets and shoulder pads but there are a few staples of the 1980's home that have inspired the designers of 2017 to create a refreshing, bright and natural look for the new year.

Well, get ready for the most unlikely decade to make a comeback transforming the bedroom; the 1980's. Wallpaper:

It's time to dig out the pasting table and brush because it looks like wallpapering is back and it's here to stay. Bold floral or metallic prints, on a feature wall, will help make a small bedroom look bigger. Marble-effect wallpaper in the bedroom, in aqua and darker blues will also add the wow factor.

Cork:

Another material to make a comeback is cork. With its natural and neutral shade, cork can be incorporated on a feature wall or to accessorise a bold, statement colour. Cork will also add texture to a bedroom wall and can absorb noise – say no more!

Upholstered Bedheads:

For the past decade or more, beds have seemed to follow the same style. But in 2017, the Bedhead or Headboard as we used to call it, will make a big impact. Look out for finishes in leather or velvet, bright, punchy patterns. If your not feeling that adventurous, then a plain, bold colour will do the trick.

Greenery:

Mention green and 1980's and you'd be forgiven for truning a bit pale, as you remember those avacado bathrooms that seemed to be all the rage. Well, the 'Green' of 2017 will be a much softer, yellow shade that will bring a more natural feel to the bedroom. Marry with earthy colours such as browns, light greys and clear whites and the feeling of the outdoors pours into the bedroom – creating a sense of nature and relaxation. To finish the 'greenery' theme, replace the cutflowers with potted plants, orchids and planters – make the bedroom come alive.

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INSIDER TIPS

LET’S TALK TRENDS The bathroom trends set totorock 2016 Bathroom trends set rockin2017

Get Curtis, ahead Senior with the hottest at bathroom trends Neil Designer Ripples Bath, set tohis rock the interiors world in 2016.trends offers advice about 2017 bathroom

#1 GREEN #1GOING Scandi Styling 2016 sees the trend for Scandinavian design continue, Scandinavian

This year we are going green, Pantone have recently announced that design is of created through amplewhich light, the wood, their colour the year is Greenery, theyuse sayofisnatural a “refreshing minimalism and functionality. someone is shade looking for aperfectly and revitalizing” shade of green. ifThis uplifting works Scandinavian design in their bathroom weawould taking throughout the whole house. We’re teamingthen it with darkersuggest colour palette to a bring the sophisticated timeless side of (available this colour, to add a lookout at bathroom furnitureand designer Dansani atlook Ripples), touch of metallic and champagne hues. they are inspired by their rich Scandinavian design heritage.

#2 NATURAL

#2 High Shine

Bring the outdoors in; it’s as simple as that. Wood should be high on everyone’s interiors agenda for 2017, 2016 was a huge year for ‘Scandi Styling’ and it’s set to continue, the use of wood in a bathroom is exactly what makes a Scandinavian space. While natural is usually best, when it comes to this trend take a look at porcelain wood-effect tiling, it not only looks incredible but in the long-run it’s more practical in a bathroom and is low maintenance too!

#3 URBAN

Scandi styling from Dansani available at Ripples

Concrete is having a real moment; it might be an unexpected interiors trend but it’s set to be the hottest trend for 2017. It’s never looked cooler than in the bathroom, team a concrete basin with a touch of black and very cool patterned tiles for a cloakroom with an industrial twist.

#5 Finishing

Touch

Double basins feature in this bathroom designed by Ripples

#3 Mirror Image Special finishes from Hansgrohe at Ripples

#5 BLACK and WHITE Chic and effortless, black and white is still most deﬁnitely in fashion. Opt for a touch of both, or be bold and go for bright white. Add some on-trend monochrome tiles to your hallway and cloakroom to tap in to the trend for boutique hotel inspired bathrooms.

#4 CRUSHING ON COPPER Hotel Inspired #4 The design trend for copper accents is here to stay, it’s a trend that adds warmth Designs and elegance to any setting. If you are looking to lend a nod to the trend then There is nothing more luxurious than a hotel bathroom and it’s certainly set to inspire bathroom looks in 2016. Timeless design and elegant fittings are exactly what are needed to create that beautiful hotel look. Marble is essential in hotel inspired designs.

invest in statement pieces including a copper radiator, or a beautiful copper bath. When it comes to copper it’s really important to complement with other materials, Double basins feature in thisitbathroom consider using slat grey as a beautiful complementary colour, as this will really from Dansani, available at Ripples make the copper in your bathroom pop.

www.ripplesbathrooms.com www.ripples.ltd.uk Chelsea House, London Rd, For your nearest showroom Bath BA1 6DB telephone 0800 107 0700 01225 447971

Chelsea House London Road Bath BA1 6DB Tel 01225 447971 88 Whiteladies Road Clifton Bristol BS8 2QN Tel 0117 973 1144 Award winning showrooms nationwide

www.ripplesbathrooms.com

new homes What is the new Lifetime ISA It's been a year since the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced in the spring budget that there would be a new 'Lifetime' savings account, designed to help those saving to get onto the property ladder or to enjoy a comfortable retirement.

Atwell Martin opens the doors to 12 The Crescent The new Lifetime Individual Savings Account (LISA) will soon go live (from April 2017), so in Plymouth could this be for you? Plymouth’s award-winning waterfront estate agency, Atwell Martin is delighted to announce What is ofa 12 Lifetime ISA? the launch The Crescent, Plymouth. So, the basic principle is that, under the terms of theCrescent scheme,isthe government will most pay in £1 for The one of Plymouth’s every £4 saved. You can invest a maximum of recognisable and historic buildings and number £4,000 a year, meaning the 25% government 12 has been stylishly converted in to eight one top-up is worth up to £1,000 a year. bedroom apartments, combining modern city

Plans to help Britain's broken housing market. It seems that, in recent years, there have been numerous announcements, incentives and plans to 'get Britain building' again. Government backed schemes such as 'Help to Buy' and 'NewBuy' along with Shared Ownership opportunies, where the owner will purchase 75% of the property while the remaining 25% is owned by the housing association, have all aided some to get onto the property ladder. Despite these success stories, the root of the problem remains. The pace of which houses are being built is too sluggish. Soaring prices and rising rents have caused a shortage of the right homes in the right places. And with a rapidly growing population, the current housing stock fails to work for far too many people. Although the schemes mentioned have been well-intentioned, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Sajid Javid MP has set out plans to cover the whole house building process, from finding sites to securing local support and permission as well as getting homes built quickly and sold on fair terms. In his 'White Paper', the minister has unveiled plans for a new "standardised" way of calculating the number of homes that need to be built by each local authority. In the past, it has been suggested that local authorities have been able to 'fudge' figures on housing demand to limit the need to build. Now, Councils will be forced to set aside land for thousands of new homes under new Government targets as part of a bid to "get Britain building". Along with the new targets will come relaxed planning restictions for developers building near town centres. An incentive aimed at revitalising the High Street. Housing companies will, however, be required to inform local councils how long it will take to build these new houses after receiving permission. In the past, home

56 inbath

developers have been able to sit on land that they have purchased. The new terms will force developers to start building within two years of gaining planning permission. The White Paper also encourages smaller firms to buld more houses. Currently, 60% of new homes are being built by just 10 developers. Under the new plan, a £ 3billion fund will be allocated to help those smaller firmscadd more than 25,000 hmes to the Governments target of one million new homes by 2020. It has not been lost on the Communities and Local Governments minister that this may all sound a little familiar, saying that people are right to be sceptical as they have heard it before. Adding that successive governments have let people down by not building enough homes. To help first-time buyers, the White Paper will include plans for a new Lifetime ISA to help them save for a deposit, and extends Right to Buy discounts to housing association tenants. Launched in April of this year, the Lifetime ISA will help those looking to save for a deposit by giving them a 25% bonus on up to £4,000 of savings a year. The key aim of the White Paper is to get to the root of why Britain has broken housing market. These have been outlined in 4 'key' steps: - Planning for the right homes in the right places - Building homes faster - Diversifying the market - Helping people now It has taken decades for the housing market to reach the state that it is currently in and it may take decades to recover. We will see if the ministers plans will 'Get Britain Building' once and for all.

living with spectacular period features and all For tax year (2017/18), withthe an first allocated parking space.the bonus will be added at the end of the year. For subsequent years, the bonus will be paid on a monthly The Crescent is one basis. In order to open a 'LISA', you need to be 18 or over under the age of 40. Savers can ofbutPlymouth’s most continue to receive a bonus on their contributions recognisable and historic until the age of 50 and you can take money out buildings of the account to and buy your first proeprty 12 at number any time. If you are saving for a retirment, the has must been stylishly converted money remain in the account until the accountholder reaches one 60. in to eight bedroom You can open aapartments. LISA alongside a standard ISA, aLocated Help to within Buy ISA and/ordistance a pension fund.Hoe You will walking of The also be able to Lifetimeoffers ISA if ayou already Promenade, 12open The a Crescent rare own a property. opportunity to purchase a piece of Plymouth’s

history. The building is Grade II listed and The total ISA allowance all your ISA savings includes sought-after liftfor access, and the at the point when ISAs become available apartments have Lifetime been appointed to a very high will bewith £20,000 level open per planyear. living and contemporary kitchens and bathrooms. The first government bonus will be paid into your account at the end of the 2017/18 tax year. From 2018/19 onwards, the bonus will be paid into your account each month.

Providing nothing changes in the rules governing the scheme, an 18-year old could run a Lifetime ISA for 32 years, saving a maximum of £128,000 and earning a government bonus of £32,000, giving a total of £160,000. Interest would also be earned (tax-free) on the savings as they accrued. The amount of interest will varyMartin from provider to provider. Atwell Partner Sue Dyer said “We are

thrilled to offer these city centre apartments The LISA haslate been designed to help The two types in this iconic Georgian terrace. of people; first andtothose saving properties are time likelybuyers to appeal buyers seeking for retirment. If you decided to withdraw cash a fabulous location within walking distance of from a Lifetime ISA, before the age of 60, for the city’s major shops, entertainment venues anything other than to buy a home, you Barbican will and transport, as well as The Hoe and have area.”to repay all the money added to the pot by the government plus a 5% early redemption or withdrawal For further charge. information please contact

Atwell Martin on 01752 202121. Other restrictions say that first-time buyers can only use Lifetime cash toStreet, fund aThe deposit Atwell Martin, 65 ISA Southside Barbican, ifPlymouth, the property they PL1 are buying costs less than Devon, 2LA Tel: 01752 202121 £450,000. www.atwellmartin.co.uk also on Facebook These LISA's will be available (@AtwellMartinPlymouth) andtraditional Twitter ISA providers such as banks, building societies and (@AMPlymouth). fund management companies.

The worst job in Britain? Chairman of the BSA, Dick Jenkins

House prices are high, because land is expensive and demand is high, a problem not helped by the fact that there are many people who like it that way.

I would rate the package he has come up with to generate more houses in the UK is a pretty good effort given the circumstances. Unfortunately the circumstances are such that the package almost certainly falls a long way short of what is needed. I had real sympathy with the poor Housing Minister when he brought out the Government’s white paper on how he was going to fix the country’s so-called broken housing market. He has put heart and soul into this for many long months and when the document appeared he had to do a round of TV and press interviews where he was repeatedly asked “is that it?” by baying journalists. It hadn’t helped that there had been repeated proclamations from his Prime Minister that housing was A National Priority and the fact that the white paper had been delayed a couple of times only heighted expectations. The analysis is simple: Britain isn’t building enough houses and because it hasn’t for many decades, the problem is now deep, pressing and urgent. The solutions are horribly difficult. I’ve met Gavin Barwell; our Housing Minister, on a couple of occasions and from what I have seen he seems like a thoroughly decent and hardworking chap full of very good ideas, even better intentions and a keen ear to listen.

When you look a bit deeper, we have planners, quite understandably, trying to preserve what’s left of our green and pleasant land. We have developers who need to make a reasonable profit (and not a killing as some would have us believe) from building homes which, all things considered, is a pretty risky enterprise for them.

but these days there is plenty of home finance available as lenders are keen and willing to lend. The one and obvious thing we really need to do is to build more social housing; “council houses” as we used to call them. The last time we built anything like the volume of houses that we say we need going forward was in the 1960’s. Trouble is we don’t have the money to do that. I suppose we could borrow the money, but that leaves us with even more debt than the eyewatering levels we already have.

We have a fluid population with more and more people wanting their own space be it youngsters, the migrant workers that underpin segments of the UK economy, divorcees or older people who want; not unreasonably, to stay in their own homes. I’m not even sure we’ve got the tradesmen here in the UK to build the volume of houses we need over the next few years. House prices are high, because land is expensive and demand is high, a problem not helped by the fact that there are many people who like it that way.

So the Government white paper has at least owned up to the fact that the housing market is “broken”. The minister has put in place a raft of proposals which should help, such as forcing development to happen more quickly once planning consent is granted, encouraging what I call “modfabs”(modern prefabs, a world away from the leaky post war prefabs we know and love), and allowing higher density housing in areas where land is short. There are many other initiatives, all of which are good, but there are no game changers. No silver bullets. Like I say, it’s the worst job in Britain!

A few years back you could have added mortgage lenders in as part of the problem,

Or, come to think, does that honour fall to the Health Secretary?

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Words associated with AFTERNOON TEA tea, cream, scone, jam, china, table, anna, maria, woburn, sandwich, clotted, high

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Answer the following trivia questions, taking the first letter of each answer, to spell a word associated with this issue. Send your answers to each question along with the 'secret' word, on e-mail, to: competitions@inbath.net subject: 'Next Voucher' for a chance to win! Closing date: 1st April 1, English synthpop duo, consisting of singer and songwriter Andy Bell and songwriter and keyboardist Vince Clarke. (7) 2, British electronics company, founded in 1968 by Alan Sugar, at the age of 21 (7)

3, County, located in the West Midlands, whos towns include Shrewsbury, Ironbridge, Telford and Much Wenlock (10) 4, Canadian politician, 23rd and current Prime Minister of Canada and leader of the Liberal Party. Justin ------- (7)

5, The “Father of Immunology”, ------ (6) Jenner was an English scientist and is famous for his discovery of smallpox vaccine. 6, 1971 film set in the Pale of Settlement of Imperial Russia in 1905. Fiddler on the ---- (4)

Last Issues Answers: hito 1) Chittagong 2) Hiro une pt 3) Anastacia 4) Ne r de 5) Graphite 6) Evan GE AN SECRET WORD: CH

Building a portfolio? It’s not just about buildings, it’s about building long term relationships. With over 20 years’ worth of experience in property letting in Bath, we know how important it is to provide a service that is both professional, personal and bespoke. So, if you are happy managing the upkeep on your property, but need some help letting it or collecting the rent, then we can help. To find out how we can help you, you can call us on 01225 314055, you can email us at enquiries@bathpropertyletting.co.uk or you can call in to our office at 34 Southgate. www.bathpropertyletting.co.uk

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