FROM THE EDITOR

Looking back to the past and looking forward to the future at the same time gives us a dynamic present. We’re doing both this month. Our historic city always likes a good bit of backwards enrichment, in this case with the publication of Oliver Taylor’s new book, Bath Abbey’s Monuments. The Abbey has over 1500 monuments –including wall tablets, ledgerstones and memorial stones –and they are a unique collection through which we can read the story of the parish church building and the rise of Bath as a spa (see page 32), a subject of which we are rather fond.

Looking forward can be more challenging, but one person who does this *really* well is engineer and artist Edward Chudleigh MBE. And he takes the concept further, because he is experimenting with creating the sustainable materials of the future, called bioplastics, with the help of a basement full of computers and self-built robots. It’s awesome –turn to page 36.

When it comes to protecting nature we need to be present in both camps of past and future. We have a responsibility to ensure that our precious nature reserves –including ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows and wetlands –continue to support the host of natural life within them, from dragonflies and orchids to badgers and water birds. Fortunately the Avon Wildlife Trust cares for over 27 nature reserves across the south west region, including Folly Farm and Chew Valley Lake, which George Cook tells us about on page 58.

Buddha is reported to have once said, “The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.”

Fair enough. Let’s do that, and you can start by reading our magazine, right now.

People making a difference

Individuals whose contributions have made a significant and lasting difference to the university, the City of Bath and the wider region were recognised recently at the University of Bath President's Awards dinner attended by HRH, The Duke of Edinburgh our Chancellor. At a packed event at the Guildhall, individuals spanning local and regional media, sport, as well as a student and prominent alumni were recognised by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian White. The University of Bath President's Award is a new mark of distinction conferred upon individuals who have made a sustained or distinctive contribution. This year's recipients were BBC TV and radio presenter Ali Vowles; former Bath Rugby captain and current Club President John Hall; University Gold Scholar, Ciara Sherlock; University alumnus and co-founder and CEO of Bath-based Storm Consultancy, David Kelly; and New York alumna and member of the University's US Charitable Foundation, Hollis (Holly) Anzani.

Emma Clegg, Editor

The Bath Magazine

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On The Cover

All paper used to make this magazine is taken from good sustainable sources and we encourage our suppliers to join an accredited green scheme. Magazines are now fully recyclable. By recycling magazines, you can help to reduce waste and contribute to the six million tonnes of paper already recycled by the UK paper industry each year. Please recycle this magazine, but if you are not able to participate in a recycling scheme, then why not pass your magazine on to a friend or colleague.

Wool is…

• Naturally insulating

• Hard-wearing

• Easy to care for

• Sustainable

• Hypoallergenic

• Fire resistant

• Available in a wide variety of colours and patterns