The Bath Magazine December 2013

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THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY OF BATH

£3.00 where sold

GET YOUR

SKATES ON For our Winter Wonderland XMAS

S P E C IA L

THE ALL NEW BENTLEY

FLYING SPUR TBM’s exclusive test drive THE BIG CHRISTMAS

WHAT’S ON Over 100 great things to do AN D

ROOM AT THE INN

the Crystal Palace reviewed

A WISE MAN mentoring in Bath

FOLLOW THE STAR

Bath at work

BEARING GIFTS our guide to Christmas giving

‘TIS THE SEASON ...to be stylish

ISSUE 135 • DECEMBER 2013

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CONTENTS

December 2013 19

34

✳

70 10

THIS MONTH IN BATH

76

68

50

82

THE CITYIST

FACE THE MUSIC

MRS STOKES

19 WOMEN WITH STYLE 70

73

48

74

BATH@WORK Neill Menneer’s portrait of the month is of Star Inn landlord Paul Waters

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FESTIVE WINE Wine critic Angela Mount picks her favourites for Christmas Day

34 ALL WRAPPED UP Inspiration for your Christmas gift shopping

RESTAURANT REVIEW Bath city pub the Crystal Palace benefits from a traditional makeover

28 BATH LIT FEST PREVIEW Edinburgh Fringe favourites bring literary laughter to the 2014 festival

PARTY CITY Put on your dancing shoes as Bath prepares to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve

‘If I ruled Bath this is what I’d like to see ‘

Photographer Marko Dutka captures Bath’s fashionistas at the Royal Crescent Hotel

FOOD & DRINK

CITY PEOPLE News from the movers and shakers

76

BEAUTIFUL BENTLEY A favourite in Beijing and Bath

FAMILY WINTER WALK Andrew Swift visits Wicks Rocks, a rugged landscape which inspired Jane Austen and painters

Who won what at the Bath Good Food awards 2013

68

MENTORING IN BATH The volunteers who are changing young people’s lives for the better

86

Philippa Watson of Dorothy House talks to Mick Ringham and picks her top tunes

16

ART EXHIBITIONS Pick up a truly original gift from one of the city’s galleries and studios

66

FAMILY FUN Ice skating and other child-friendly events

84 60

Bath Drama pantomime writer Stephen Curtis picks his favourite Christmas activities

14

IF IT’S ON . . .

Our bumper What’s On pages include the cream of Bath’s cultural Christmas diary

From the Bath Film Festival to Nine Lessons and Carols: essential dates to note

12

★

✶

92

HOLISTIC APPROACH Artizan hair salon creates spa ambience

94

MAKE-UP TREATS Sample a workshop with the professional artists at Little Lab

96

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN Jane Moore’s pick of the best winter son et lumière

102 PROPERTY Find your next home in the city or country

ON THE COVER Get your skates on for Bath on Ice: Images courtesy of Shutterstock

@ thebathmagazine www.thebathmag.co.uk

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EDITOR’Sletter

A

s I write there’s great excitement as the little wooden chalets are popping up all round Bath city centre, ready for the biggest yet 18-day Christmas market, which by the time you read this will be bustling with shoppers arriving by the busload to enjoy the delights of our dear city. The locals may roll their eyes and have a little grumble about the market but there’s no denying that it’s good for business, and those coachloads of visitors are a very welcome boost to local traders and producers. There’s the added sweetener for locals this year with a discount when you spend over £20 at the market on Mondays through to Wednesdays and show your B&NES resident Discovery card. And if you have a friend or relative running a stall do pop along and support them, maybe buy them a hot drink – it’s bloomin’ freezing in those chalets.

We’ve had a lot of fun producing this festive issue. On top of pages and pages of things to do in the run-up to Christmas we’ve been hanging out in the very elegant surroundings of the Royal Crescent Hotel, where they’ve created the sumptuous Montagu bar. Inspired by this backdrop I got together with photographer Marko Dutka and stylist Katie Fishlock and invited a handful of Bath’s most interesting, influential and stylish women to join us for a photoshoot. You can see the results from Page 19.

We’ve got interviews with two more inspirational local people.

Mick Ringham talked to Philippa Watson, fundraising manager for Dorothy House Hospice Care for our regular Face the Music feature (Page 14) and I met Jamie Luck, the new director of Mentoring Plus, a Bath charity which pairs adults with teenagers, turning young people’s lives and aspirations around. Find out how you can help this good cause by giving time or money, on Page 84.

Included in our 100 plus things to do in December is a visit to one of the son et lumière experiences. The Holburne Museum has a new installation designed by Rolling Stones and Olympics ceremony lighting designer Patrick Woodroffe, and Westonbirt has the natural beauty of its trees lit up to create the Enchanted Forest. You’ll probably want to take the family on a walk at some point over the Christmas holiday, and Andrew Swift suggests a trip to Wicks Rocks, a rugged, romantic landscape just north of Bath. You can pick up Andrew’s route on Page 86.

Andrew has jointly written the history of the lost pubs of Bath, so I expect, like me, he had a wary eye on the scaffolding outside the Crystal Palace which has recently undergone a facelift. Rest assured, beer drinkers of Bath, this historic pub hasn’t become a chi-chi wine bar. It’s still very much a proper pub, with a real fire, hearty pub grub and a warm welcome.

Well I don’t know about you, but I’ve got a spot of Christmas shopping to do. You might find the local gift you’re looking for on our website: www.thebathmag.co.uk. And don’t forget, you can always communicate with us via Twitter @thebathmagazine.

Here’s wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Georgette McCready Editor 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.

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

DECEMBER 2013

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Follow us on Twitter @thebathmagazine Contact us: Editor Tel: Email:

Georgette McCready 01225 424592 georgette@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Deputy Editor Email:

Samantha Coleman sam@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Web Content Editor Email:

Dulcie Carey dulcie@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Production Manager Email:

Jeff Osborne production@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Commercial Production Lorna Harrington Email: lorna@thebathmagazine.co.uk Publisher Email:

Steve Miklos stevem@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Contact the Advertising Sales team tel: 01225 424499 Advertising Sales Email:

Liz Grey liz@thebathmagazine.co.uk

Advertising Sales Email:

Kathy Williams kathy@thebathmagazine.co.uk

The Bath Magazine and The Bristol Magazine are published by MC Publishing Ltd. We are independent of all other local publications

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ZEITGEIST

5

things to do in December

HOW SILENTLY: Simon Brett’s exhibition of 50 years of wood engraving is at the Holburne Museum until February, admission free

Listen As the Archbishop of Canterbury wisely observed, Christmas is not all about spending money. Bath Abbey is holding a series of carols for shoppers every Saturday until December 14, to remind us to take time out from conspicuous consumption. On Christmas Eve at 7pm it will be holding the traditional service of nine lessons and carols which tells the story of Christ’s birth, and who could fail to be moved by the beauty of human voices raised in song in this historic, majestic building, the Lantern of the West?

Skate

PHOTO: with thanks to the Jane Austen Centre

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For a romantic date or an outing with family or friends Bath’s open air ice rink in Royal Victoria Park is the ideal winter playground for Bathonians this Christmas. It’s open to skaters every day except Christmas Day, but you’d be wise to book your slot in advance. Enjoy a hot drink and some food from the rinkside stalls. From £7 for an hour, to include skate hire. To book visit: www.bathonice.com or tel: 07583 258 688.

Watch The Bath Film Festival runs until Sunday 8 December, with all sorts of fascinating, entertaining and enlightening films showing. We simply don’t have space to share them all in the magazine, which is where our rather marvellous website – www.thebathmag.co.uk – comes in. We’ve got the festival’s full listings posted there, including clips and previews for you to enjoy.

INSPIRING: Idris Elba plays Nelson Mandela (showing 8 December)

Eat Enjoy A family Christmas in Bath wouldn’t be complete without an outing to see a pantomime. The Theatre Royal’s productions, directed by and starring Chris Harris, are always full of fun, action and music – an ideal introduction to live theatre for children.

Peter Pan, which runs from Thursday 12 December to Sunday 12 January stars Cliff Parish, pictured, (who plays handyman Fred in Call the Midwife), Jon Monie and youngsters from the Bath Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance. For tickets, tel: 01225 448844.

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We always act as though the shops are going to be shut for at least a week as we prepare for Christmas, overloading our trolleys and baskets with food and drink, enough for an army. Enjoy the golden brown roast turkey, the fruity Christmas pudding and the silly jokes in the crackers, but most of all enjoy the company of those you love gathered around the table – not forgetting to raise a glass and toast absent friends.

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ist

THE CITY

One city . . . one month

The buzz

My

BATH

We ask Stephen Curtis playwright, author, editor and sometime lexicographer and translator what he’s doing this month

COMING TO BATH: Joanna Trollope

Book

For the first time, the Bath Literature Festival, under new director Viv Groskop, is releasing some ticket sales pre-Christmas. For a Christmas gift idea, you could treat someone to a stimulating experience – that’s got to be more fun than a jumper with a reindeer on the front.

Here are some of the highlights of next spring’s festival (28 February – 9 March). ● Academic, feminist and natural-born contrarian Germaine Greer delivers a one-off lecture on the environment, the fate of the planet and her complicated love affair with her homeland, Australia. ● Claudia Roden comes to Bath to share memories of a long and inspiring career and reflects on The Food of Italy, a book which has had a huge influence on British cooking and which will be reissued in 2014. ● The Great Bath News Debate chaired by Jonathan Dimbleby. Philospher Alain de Botton and Carl Honore, TED speaker and author of The Slow Fix, will propose the motion that ‘News Is Ruining Our Lives.’ Channel 4 News’ Jon Snow and former BBC journalist Kate Adie will oppose the motion. ● Hanif Kureshi, award-winning author of The Buddha of Suburbia and Intimacy joins us to discuss his controversial new novel, his first in nearly six years, The Last Word. ● Mark Hix, as seen on BBC2’s Great British Menu comes to Bath to talk about his latest book, Mark Hix: The Collection. Expect sublime recipes and great story-telling. ● Comedian Mark Watson is also a best selling author. Mark will be talking about his new book The Knot and taking part in a comedy night at Komedia with stars from the comedy circuit. ● Joanna Trollope’s much-anticipated re-working of Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, has been one of the most talked-about books of the year.

For more information and to book tickets visit: www.bathfestivals.org.uk. See Page 28 for details of another event, Austentatious – Pride and Prejudice as you’ve never seen it before.

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What brought you to Bath?

An elderly red Austin Maxi containing three children – one still in a safety seat – one dog, one cat, myself and my ex-wife who was about to take up a teaching post at King Edward’s School. I had just been made redundant by a publishing firm in London.

Bath seemed like a very pleasant place to attempt a new career as a freelance lexicographer and bonded househusband.

What are you reading?

At the moment anything quirky or macabre – ETA Hoffman and Franz Kafka, for instance.

I think this might be a time to look at the ghost stories of MR James, which I’ve been meaning to read for years.

What is on your MP3 player?

I don’t own an MP3 player. If I tried to walk and listen to music I should infallibly bump into things or get run over. It’s time to get out all the Christmas CDs – carols, Messiah, The Christmas Oratorio, Bing Crosby, The Pogues etc (I draw the line at Cliff Richard!)

Which café or restaurant takes your fancy?

I have a theory that most restaurant meals are let down by the main course. Starters and desserts can be light, manageable and imaginative; mains can be a wade-through (or tough). Until Bath gets a ‘First and Last’, though, I shall continue to go to the Rose and Crown, Hinton Charterhouse and, for coffee and cake, to the Courtyard in Lilliput Court.

Which museum or gallery will you be visiting?

I shall probably go to the Characters exhibition at the Holburne. I should love to see the Paul Klee exhibition at the Tate Modern in London.

Which interests will you be pursuing?

Amateur drama – though it often seems to be pursuing me. I’m directing my own pantomime Cinderella for performances at the Rondo Theatre in January. In December rehearsals will be frequent and full on.

What local outdoor activity or event will you be doing or visiting?

I hope the weather will be good enough for a weekly welly-walk (often in the footsteps of Nigel Vile). I may also spend some time

watching the skaters on the Bath on Ice open air rink in Victoria Park from a safe distance and fantasising about being agile and elegant . . . while on the way to play tennis in the bubble.

Film or play?

I’ve seen the Spanish Golden Age season at the Ustinov (for my money, this autumn’s highlight) and, with panto rehearsals, I may well be all theatred out in the run-up to Christmas. So I shall go and see a film that is entertaining, heart-warming and visually exciting without being infantile rubbish or sentimental gloop – I hope.

How will you be spending Christmas?

Trying not to be overwhelmed by the practicalities and banalities. Trying to be organised so as not to have to chase around the shops on Christmas Eve morning.

Trying to help my wife and not hinder her.

Trying to appreciate the presents I’m given even if I don’t actually like them. Trying not to subside into a fattened doze on Christmas Day afternoon. Trying not to be too easily overwhelmed by emotion. Trying not to weep into the stuffing when the King’s College carol service comes on.

Trying to cope with the repetition of ceremonies and traditions that bring Christmases past awfully close and memories of people who helped to make them but are no longer here. Trying to create some non-tawdry wonder for the children. Trying to extend Christmas good cheer beyond Boxing Day morning. Trying to find new and delightful things to do with a decimated turkey.

Cinderella by Stephen Curtis will be presented by Bath Drama at the Rondo Theatre, Larkhall from 11 to 15 January, 7.30pm Saturday and Sunday matinees, 2.30pm. Tickets, £10/£8 (children and concessions) tel: 01225 463362. Cinderella has a traditional story and characters, slapstick and wonderment for the children, as well as more sophisticated humour for grown-ups, and audience participation.

We’re following @BathXmasMarket – named as one of the top five Christmas markets in the UK. Use it for news of what’s happening among the chalets and to plan your Christmas shopping trips (also use the #askbath service)

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FACEtheMUSIC

Always a time for giving Phillippa Watson, events fundraiser for Dorothy House Hospice Care, talks to Mick Ringham about her favourite music, family Christmases and how she got involved with working for this much-loved local charity

W

ith Christmas lights sparkling overhead and city shops awash with festive displays, it’s hard not to be tempted inside for a spot of seasonal retail therapy. However, take a closer look down the high street at any time of year and you will soon discover a local, national or international charity shop, helping to raise funds for that particular charity’s cause. With thousands of diverse organisations requiring funding and given the current economic situation, where money is at a premium, the task is by no means easy.

Coming up with new ideas to attract cash and that all important goodwill, not only takes time, skill and determination but originality.

For the past decade Phillippa Watson has been doing just this. As events fundraiser for Dorothy House Hospice Care, she is responsible for the management and development of all the charity’s events along with her fundraising team.

Phillippa was born in Tynemouth and after leaving school headed for Leicester Polytechnic. After taking her degree she decided to take a gap year or two in Italy, initially to study Italian in Florence and then to teach English in Naples. To help fund this she took a variety of jobs including au-pair, chambermaid and bar work, all the while, as she says: “falling totally in love with the country.”

Returning to the UK in the mid 1980s she settled in London where she was employed by Polydor records working as a secretary in the company’s legal department. But she was then approached by the head of A&R and was appointed a co-ordinator. She progressed into artist management and it was here that she became involved with concert and sports promotions, helping to arrange and coordinate any number of diverse events from a Prince’s Trust rock gala to boxing events in Battersea Town Hall.

It was during this period that she met her future husband Jeff and when a job opportunity arose for him in Bath they moved west to settle in Camden.

When a good friend of hers was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30, Phillippa naturally wanted to help and support her as much as possible and it was then that she became interested in the work of Dorothy House Hospice. She takes up the story: “I soon discovered the charity’s work was held in very high esteem and wondered with my previous background if I could be any use to them. I applied for a parttime job in fundraising and events covering someone’s maternity leave. It was supposed to last a year, but I seem to have stayed on a little, in fact it’s now ten years and counting.”

Dorothy House hospice care is based in the village of Winsley close to the city and has also established two outreach centres at Trowbridge and Peasdown. At the last count it had 27 shops and an army of more than 1,000 volunteers. From coffee mornings, auctions, discos, grand balls and the famous midnight walks, nothing seems off limits when it comes to raising the profile and ultimately the revenue of the charity.

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would be celebrating Christmas? “Oh, it’s going to be very traditional, surrounded by family with hopefully an open fire and certainly a few glasses of prosecco. But never far away are our thoughts for the patients as well as their families at this particular time.”

Maybe over the Christmas period we just might find the time to reflect on how we could help – even in the smallest of way – this hard-working local charity?

Phillippa’s top ten: ● Pink Floyd – Money Surely no self respecting fundraiser would exclude this record? I have also

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FAVOURITES: left to right, Steve Nicks of Fleetwood Mac, Dreams, Michael Buble, All I Do is Dream of You, and The Cure, Love Cats Philippa’s portrait by Neill Menneer of Spirit

another reason, as this was the first album I was bought by my great aunt for Christmas when I was 13. The Dark Side of the Moon has just celebrated its 40th birthday – gosh I’m feeling old remembering it. ● Fleetwood Mac – Dreams This brings back memories of Friday and Saturday nights around at my friends’ houses listening to records. The boys had a can of beer, us girls Coca-Cola or a cup of tea and biscuits.

There was no binge drinking in my day. Most teenagers at that time were intrigued by Stevie Nick’s voice, especially the boys. ● The Cure – Love Cats While teaching in Naples I had a number of English friends who were the wives of naval personnel at the NATO base. I was invited to attend a party on HMS Brazen that was visiting Italian naval ports and the guest of honour was Prince Andrew.

For some reason I arrived late and had a subtle grilling by his detective. However, I was then kissed on the cheek twice by HRH as he filed past me. The party was quite tame while he was there, but when he left the volume was turned up and this track was the first record to be played.

very traditional, surrounded by family with, ❝ hopefully, an open fire and certainly a few glasses of prosecco. But never far away are our thoughts for the patients as well as their families at this particular time

❞

● Level 42 – Something About You I loved this record when I came back to the UK. Little did I know that in time, I would be working for their record company and a couple of years later for their management company. They are a smashing bunch of guys and it was a wonderful treat for us that they attended our wedding. ● Steely Dan – Hey 19 This is my husband’s favourite band. I know this because when I’m driving his car there’s usually one of the band’s albums on the CD player. Our daughters are now word perfect on the Steely Dan front, particularly Leonora, because she is always singing along to it with her dad. ● The John Wilson Orchestra – The Trolley Song Probably one of the few times we sit down as a family is to watch something on television, such as John Wilson at the Proms. The girls and I love musicals and we are always singing (me very badly) along to them. Alessia, our eldest daughter is very good at this, so we dream of her performing with his orchestra at the Albert Hall one day. ● Michael Bublé – All I Do is Dream of You This record was picked by my wonderful work colleagues as it’s the ringtone on my mobile. I knew the lyrics, but for the life of me couldn’t place the tune. Eventually I worked it out, as it’s a WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

different arrangement, sung this time by Bublé instead of Debbie Reynolds, when she pops out of a cake in a sequence from the film Singing in the Rain. ● Mozart – Don Giovanni My favourite opera. I love living in Bath and in particular the view of the city from Camden, but one of the things I miss about not living in London is being able to go to the Royal Opera House. I had a favourite seat there, it had a slightly restricted view and was quite high up, but heaven all the same.

I’m not sure if I could afford that same seat these days. ● Band Aid – Do They Know it’s Christmas?

I think we can all remember where we were when we watched Live Aid back in 1985. I watched it on a circular yellow sofa at a friend’s villa in Opatija in former Yugoslavia. I was very fortunate to be able to attend Live Aid in 2005 in both London and Edinburgh as a guest of Midge Ure who has become a good friend over the years. ● Cantilena – Psalms Cantata This is without doubt my current favourite piece of music, sung by the B&NES County Choir and conducted by Tim Parker.

They have just recorded a CD with Stephen Faux and I can honestly say that it’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever listened to. The choir is made up of children, including one of our daughters, with ages ranging from 13 upwards. It’s truly inspirational and makes fabulous Christmas listening. ■

Helping Dorothy House

Dorothy House Hospice Care has a year-round programme of fund-raising events to help pay for its invaluable work. The next one is the annual Santa Dash, on Sunday 1 December.

Run, jog or walk four miles dressed as Father Christmas.

Places are already being booked by boys aged 12 and over, and men, to take part in the second Bath Men’s Walk, which takes place on Sunday 1 February and consists of a walk from Winsley to Bath Recreation ground, where walkers will enjoy a pie, a pint and the chance to watch Six Nations rugby on the big screen at the end of their trek.

Phillippa said: “Bath Men’s Walk was created last year in response to popular demand, particularly from husbands and boyfriends who had seen their other halves take part in the annual Dorothy House Midnight Walk. The response was so overwhelming and the feedback so positive from last year’s inaugural Men’s Walk that we believe the event has now become a regular fixture in Bath’s calendar and an extremely important fundraiser for both charities. We hope to double the numbers of men and boys taking part this year to 400 and are aiming for a staggering £40,000 raised.”

Sign up for Dorothy House’s sponsored events at: www.dorothyhouse.co.uk.

Now you can listen to the Face the Music tunes thanks to a link on : www.thebathmag.co.uk DECEMBER 2013

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N I G H T W E A R

Mrs Stokes

B E A C H

&

R O O M

©www.robbiddulph.com

takes a sideways look at life in Bath . . .

In my parallel universe

I

T H E

F I N E S T

I N

L I N G E R I E ,

t’s that time of year when Bath is buzzing with visitors again. They’re drawn not only to the Christmas market, but also to the idea that the streets are full of bonneted ladies sipping Earl Grey in the Assembly Rooms, while gents in tight fitting breeches promenade the city centre, drinking in the ambience (OK, well one actually does, you know, Mr Whiskers outside the Jane Austen Centre). They imagine our well-kept roads are trimmed with beautiful Georgian buildings, while elegantly dressed people parade Milsom Street, patronising our wealth of independent shops and taking advantage of our excellent service.

And of course, that’s all real. But have you ever thought how actually living in Bath is also a bit like living in Somerset’s version of The Truman Show? Because just like the 1998 Jim Carey classic, behind our sparkly façade is an alternative Bath that takes off its make-up, kicks off its shoes and gets on with the business of living once the tourists go home. And while I don’t think there’s a Machiavellian Ed Harris character manipulating our movements via CCTV from a control centre above the tourist office, I do think that our real life could do with some glitz. So in the spirit of the season I’ve written my own Christmas wish list for fantasy Bath that would delight residents as much as tourists all year round.

1. First comes that old chestnut – free parking. It’s the issue that drives us to distraction, especially since the meters popped up in the once free Victoria Park. In my fantasy city we’d all have a pass to park wherever and whenever we’d like and limitless car parking space too. B&NES council tax payers only mind (and for no extra cost). On a similar traffic theme, I’d construct a magic road running over the city that couldn’t be seen by the naked eye so we could drive over the city not snail-trawl through it when we want to get to Bristol or Chippenham (some people do).

2. In my fantasy there’d be a free spa pass for all, with Champagne on tap. Does anyone who lives here use it or is it just reserved for hen parties and weekend breakers? It’s currently being marketed for Valentine’s Day for “empty nesters and pre-family couples” to visit for an amorous tete-a-tete.

Let’s hope the background music is a little more romantic that the sounds of a chatty Japanese coach party (and it’s more affordable than usual).

because it’s impossible to go into ❝ Bath without bumping into someone you know . . . ❞

7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU Telephone: 01225 330563 email: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com

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3. Thirdly, and because it’s impossible to go into Bath without bumping into someone you know, I’d also introduce a city-wide understanding that if you dare go shopping without washing your hair/wearing your best coat, anyone who sees you will pretend they haven’t and certainly won’t tell anyone else you weren’t looking your usual best. Even better I’d invent some kind of invisibility cloak.

4. I’d also build a giant skatepark for young adults to hang out on their bikes to stop them chasing empty crisp packets across Green Park Station’s market square after 5pm every night. It can’t be that hard, Google makes making this kind of dream reality a synch – according to their latest ad, you only have to search the internet for “free building materials”and you’re away.

5. Finally, I’d introduce cycle lanes. We need them, much more of them to encourage us all to keep fit and to keep safe on the roads. Admittedly my fantasy cycle lanes would probably be lined with travelators owning to my preference to cycle for fashion rather than fitness, but hey – I can have what I like in my Christmas wish list. Feel free to tweet me @mrsstokeschina to let me know what’s in yours. Season’s greetings! ■

@mrsstokeschina

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WOMEN STYLE

We invited six of Bathʼs most stylish, independent and inspirational women to join us at the Royal Crescent Hotel for a Christmas photo shoot with award-winning photographer Marko Dutka

Deirdre McSharry

Award-winning editor Deirdre McSharry is a collector of beautiful things and talented people. She particularly loves textiles and the stories that come with each piece of art or clothing. As a journalist who has worked in New York and London, editing titles including Cosmopolitan and Country Living, she’s a consummate networker and social fixer. Her next project is working with designer Kaffe Fassett on a major retrospective of his work at the American Museum in Bath. Deirdre is wearing a vintage Uzbeckistan silk Ikat coat from her own collection.

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Stylist Katie Fishlock is a Bath girl with an instinctive and original eye for what looks good on herself and on others. She knows her labels but is equally adept at creating a look, using her skills as a tailor, pulling together pieces from markets, charity shops and making her own creations. She has worked for Alexander McQueen, talked style with designer Paul Smith and is currently working on launching her own label next year. Katie works at Space NK in Bath. She tweets as @BathBlah.

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Grazzie Pinto

A passion for fashion means Grazzie Pinto is the kind of woman who can spot a designer label instantly, and she’s put her knowledge and enthusiasm to good use with her business, Fashion Bloodhound.

Founded three years ago, it’s a hassle free way to buy or sell preowned designer wear. For everything from belts and shoes to dresses and bags, from Jaegar to McQueen, savvy fashionistas go to www.fashionbloodhound.com.

Grazzie is wearing Whistles dress, J Brand jacket, By Malene Birger necklace, Lara Bohinc shoes, Vivienne Westwood bag.

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Jo Emerson

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Jo Emerson is a former broadcast journalist, marketing strategist and busy mother of three who has harnessed her warm, easy way with people to forge a new career as one of the UK’s top performance coaches. She works with businesses and individuals to help them achieve the goals they want for success and fulfillment. She also writes a regular column on our website: www.thebathmag.co.uk Sample Jo’s positive thinking approach on her website: www.jo-emerson.com Jo is wearing a beaded cocktail dress and shoes from Phase Eight, bag from Fashion Bloodhound.

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Tanya Rich

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One great, original hair style and 1,000 voices – Tanya Rich is a voice over artist who can be heard in adverts, jingles and phone systems the world over.

Dedicated to good food, good times and her home city of Bath, Tanya can also be heard singing with her trio The Bellefleurs who deliver punk, rock, metal and pop numbers all in the close harmony style of the Andrews Sisters – like a tattooed iron fist in a velvet glove. Dress by Pinup Couture from Deadly is the Female, Frome, shoes Dolce & Gabbana.

Jewellery by Vivienne Westwood at Garment Quarter, Bristol.

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Sarah Lowden Poole

Sarah Lowden Poole – a woman of many hats (and shoes and bags). A former teacher of philosophy, the wife and business partner to a forensic pathologist husband, mother of four, also currently President of the New Generation Bath WI. Erstwhile columnist for a small parenting magazine and blogging on subjects as they catch her fancy as LowdenClear. Find out more about Bath WI, visit: www.thebathwi.com. Sarah is wearing dress and shoes by Phase Eight, bag, Fashion Bloodhound.

We couldnʼt have done it without ...

Photography: Marko Dutka www.studiomarko.com Location: the newly refurbished Montagu Bar at the Royal Crescent Hotel Hair: Mia and Lisa from Artizan, George Street, tel: 447087 Make-up: Claire from Little Lab, Milsom Place www.littlelab.co.uk Styling: Katie Fishlock @BathBlah & Nikki Donovan from Garment Quarter, Bristol Photographer’s assistant: Sophie Blakeley Clothes and accessories: Fashion Bloodhound, Phase Eight, Vivienne Westwood at Garment Quarter and models’ own And a big thank you to our models for giving up their time

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A bit of literary mischief Tamsin Treverton Jones talks to the cast of the Edinburgh sell-out success, Austentatious: an Improvised Novel ahead of their Bath show as part of next spring’s Independent Bath Literature Festival

O

nce a show at Edinburgh Festival acquires cult status, people will queue for however long it takes to get themselves a ticket. For the past two summers the fringe venues hosting Austentatious: an Improvised Novel have seen people queuing for up to two hours, as the most talked about show on the improvised comedy circuit comes to town. Even with a performance every night for the four weeks of the festival, demand for tickets saw some people returning day after day and others almost throwing themselves at cast members, begging to be allowed in.

Thankfully, Bath audiences won’t be in this rather humiliating position when Austentatious perform at the Guildhall as part of the 2014 Independent Bath Literature Festival. Tickets for “one of the most enjoyable sixty minutes of the Fringe” (Guardian), on Saturday 8 March are already on sale.

“We are absolutely delighted to be coming back to Bath for the festival,” says Andrew Hunter Murray, one of the six cast members who were in Bath earlier this year for the Jane Austen Festival and who perform regularly in London and at festivals throughout the year.

Andrew, along with Amy Cooke-Hodgson, Joseph Morpurgo and Rachel Parris performed with their university improvisation group The Oxford Imps and subsequently teamed up with Graham Dickson and rising comedy star Cariad Lloyd to create Austentatious.

The format is deceptively simple: audiences are asked to place imaginary titles of a novel by Jane Austen into a hat; one is selected at random and there follows an hour long improvised performance of the ‘novel’ in the distinctive style of Austen, complete with Regency costumes, fluttering fans, strongminded girls and their silly mothers, arrogant men and witty repartee.

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“The audience’s contributions are what make each show unique: their imagination and wit surprise and amaze us every time,” says Andrew. “No two titles are ever the same and whether you’ve never read one of her novels or you’re a die-hard Austen fan, there’s enough lunacy in the show for anyone to enjoy it.”

The cast is remarkable in the way they adapt instantly to the ridiculousness of a title, whether it’s Pride and Extreme Prejudice; Tax and Taxability; Man-Filled Park; Me Tarzan, You Jane Austen or Fifty Shades of Mr Darcy. With no discussion whatsoever they launch into the story, creating characters and situations from scratch, with hilarious results.

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The cast... adapts instantly to the ridiculousness of a title, whether it’s Pride and Extreme Prejudice; Tax and Taxibility; Man-Filled Park

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“We do rehearse,” says Cariad Lloyd, whose comic talents and Best Edinburgh Fringe Newcomer nomination have invited comparisons with a young Catherine Tate. “We never know what we’ll be asked to perform, but we can practice listening to each other, picking up on lines and facial expressions and doing character work. The more improvisation you do, the more you find you can do, the more risks you can take, the more avenues become open to you. It’s never safe and it’s never boring: it’s why we all love what we do.”

My suggestion that they are being touted as

the new faces of comedy meets with surprise.

“I’m not sure about that,” says Andrew, “but it would be great to think that we are part of a new era of improvisation and that improv generally could gain more attention.” As he points out: “Many of the panel shows we see on TV such as QI, Have I Got News For You and Mock The Week are basically improvised comedy: it’s only the presenters who have scripts.”

Cariad is equally modest; she has, however, recently recorded a BBC 3 pilot The Cariad Show as well as a very funny series of short films for the BBC, introducing a young couple negotiating their way through the minefield of manners involved in running a modern day, livein relationship.

“When we first started doing Austentatious, we were actually surprised at just how many people liked the show. We’re certainly not doing it to exploit Austen: we like improvisation and we like Austen, so it gives us huge pleasure that everyone else seems to like it too.”

Without doubt, this is a supremely talented cast who wear their success and true comic ability very lightly. Every time they step onstage they not only reinforce our own love of Austen as a national literary treasure, but they prove that the world of manners she created is a shrewd starting point for genuine human comedy, accessible to all.

Austentatious: an Improvised Novel plays the Guildhall on Saturday 8 March as part of the 2014 Independent Bath Literature Festival.

Tickets are on sale now. ■ For more information and to book tickets now visit: www.bathfestivals.org.uk Bath Box Office: 01225 463362 The Independent Bath Literature Festival runs from 28 February – 9 March 2014

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GRASSE

Luxury Items for Home and Garden | Truly Tempting Skincare A unique shopping experience with fresh style and approach 3 Argyle Street, Bath BA2 4BA 01225 444260 | www.grasse.me.uk

A Gift that

is Loved

Beautifully crafted engagement rings, wedding rings and fine jewellery designed and traditionally handmade on the premises. All types of jewellery remodelled. Efficient repair service.

Shown here: silver stacking rings set with sapphires and right, hammered finish silver and gold bangles

Gold & Platinum Studio 19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR Tel: +44 (0)1225 462 300 www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk email: mike@goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk 30 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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1. Dermalogica Favourites Gift Set retails at £30, includes 13g daily microfoilant, 50ml multi active toner, 7ml skin hydrating booster, 22ml skin hydrating masque & 5 ml multivitamin power firm ( worth £55.60) Hands On Health, High Street, Bathampton 2. Ruby jewellery set, Jody Cory, total cost of set: £1,406 (each sold separately) 9 Abbey Church Yard 3. Solid silver swan pendant with chain, £97, Nicholas Wylde, 21/22 The Corridor 4. Handwoven Harris tweed and calf leather accessories from £22, The British Emporium, 15 Cheap Street 5. 18ct gold branch ring set with white diamonds, made by goldsmith Mikala Djorup, £2,100, available at Tina Engell, 29 Belvedere 6. 18ct yellow gold sapphire and diamond ring, £1,995, from Gold and Platinum Studio, 19 Northumberland Passage 7. Ranging from £27 – £195, Spa gift vouchers make great presents for friends, family or colleagues, from Thermae Bath Spa, The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street 8. Pamper someone this Christmas with vouchers from Jennifer Luckham Beauty Clinic, voucher prices start at £10, Jennifer Luckham Beauty Clinic, 32 Monmouth Street 9. Holiday Exfoliator, £49.99, The Orangery, 2 Kingsmead Street 10. Grosvenor bowler bag in slate £1,091.00 by Smythson, from Mallory, 1– 5 Bridge Street

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y for – a challenge to bu from Men needn’t be ys r all types of gu we’ve got ideas fo e urban metrosexual th the sportsman to

1. Specialised wind jacket, £50 available in black or white, Total Fitness Bath, 3 Saracen Street 2. Paul Smith classic multistripe socks, £15.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 3. Highloft glove, £34, Jack Wolfskin, 36-37 Westgate Street 4. Jeff Banks polkadot tie, outlet price £16, McArthurGlen, Kemble Drive, Swindon 5. Daniel Wellington watch, £149, Fabulous, 17 St Lawrence Street, Southgate 6. Barbour Classic Loch Explorer travel bag, £215, from John Anthony, 26-28 High Street 7. Lhoste vest, £75, Jack Wolfskin, 36-37 Westgate Street 8. Maui Jim Pau Hana polarised sunglasses, £204, Kathryn Anthony, 16 Pierrepont Street 9. Unisex Bright Belt, £29.95, Cotswold Country, 28 Milsom Street 10. Mozart tribute to MontBlanc, pen £495, from Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street

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9 1. Large Lego storage head, girl, £19.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 2. Toadstool nightlight £4.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 3. Nanoblocks Pyramid of Giza set, £15.95, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place 4. Gap denim dress, outlet price £19.99, McArthurGlen, Kemble Dr, Swindon 5. Mini Woodland Rabbit Nightlight, £5.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 6. Elmer puzzles by Vilac, £15.99, My Small World, 18 Little Southgate 7. Under the tree Christmas mug, £14.95 from Shannon, 68 Walcot Street 8. Little Scamp Mette by Haba, £24.95, My Small World, 18 Little Southgate 9. Specialized Hotwalk bike, £110, Total Fitness Bath, 3 Saracen Street, 10. Brio ant with rolling egg, £21.95, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place

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Even Santa uses the internet . . . for direct links and to buy online visit: www.thebathmag.co.uk

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Animal Head Rhino, £65, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street Handmade bell jars, £30 – £95, Prey Renaissance, 2 Milsom Place British bee mug, Bath Tourism Gift Shop, £9, Abbey Churchyard The Roberts Revival Rover, £199, Moss Of Bath, 45 St James’ Parade Sammalaas felt animal wine coolers, £72 from Shannon, 68 Walcot Street Moroccan blush rose reed diffuser, £35, Grasse, 3 Argyle Street Littla Toikka mouth blown glassbird Joulina, £159, from Shannon, 68 Walcot Street 8. Drift stainless steel jugs in five sizes from £12, Robert Welch, 6 Broad Street 9. Astier de Villatte candles, £55, TCS, 3 York Buildings, George Street 10. T-Loop looping chrome candlestick, a unique alternative to traditional tea-light holders, £19, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place

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9 1. Gentleman’s hardware bicycle tool and puncture kit, £14.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 2. Izola hipflask Don’t Drink & Ride, £29.95, Bloomsbury, 15 New Bond Street 3. QuietComfort 15 headphones feature exclusive Bose advancements in noise reduction technology, making them our best around-ear headphones. You hear even less noise and more of your music—with brilliant sound and a long-lasting comfortable fit. £259, Paul Green HiFi, Brassmill Lane, Brassmill Enterprise Centre 4. The Sonos Play, £169, Moss Of Bath, 45 St James’ Parade 5. The WiFi enabled Nikon Coolpix S9500, £199.99 with free case and Battery. London Camera Exchange, 13 Cheap Street 6. Sennheiser Momentum on-ear headphones, £169, Moss Of Bath, 45 St James Parade 42 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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7. The Ruark R4i, £599, Moss Of Bath, 45 St James Parade 8. Bungee card case, this pocket-sized, flip-top case is a compact, stylish alternative to a wallet. It comes in four gorgeous metallic shades, £8.50, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place 9. GoPro Hero3 + Silver Wearable Sports Camera, Total Fitness Bath, 3 Saracen Street 10. Garject – this clever, time-saving gadget presses unpeeled garlic, scrapes itself clean, and even ejects the peel, £24.95, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place

Check out more hi-tech gifts and direct links to buy online visit: www.thebathmag.co.uk

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Champagne Jacquart Cuvee Alpha, £85, Great Western Wine, Wells Road Chocolate and hazelnut nougat, £5.95, Carluccio’s, Milsom Place Heston from Waitrose puff pastry mince pies, £3.50, Waitrose Traditional Panettone, £16.95, Carluccio’s, Milsom Place Cantucci al Miele, £15.95, Carluccio's, Milsom Place Riverford organic gift hamper, £49.95, www.riverford.co.uk Belgian truffles infused with Champagne, Cointreau and Grand Marnier, £15, Prey Renaissance, 2 Milsom Place 8. Cylindra spice rack – a great way to keep herbs and spices freshly sealed and tucked away tidily. It can be wall-mounted or used freestanding, £15, Quadri, 16 Milsom Place 9. Victoriana Glorious Food tea towel, £8, John Lewis, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, Bristol 44 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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We’ve rounded up more foodie gifts for you to buy online, visit: www.thebathmag.co.uk

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Islington sofas from £795 & swivel chair from £519

FURNISHERS OF DISTINCTION FOR OVER 98 YEARS

15-18 LONDON STREET • WALCOT • BATH • 01225 465 757

www.trhayes.co.uk

• FREE DELIVERY TO A LARGE AREA • FREE CUSTOMER CAR PARK •

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Bath@Work Our series of photographic portraits by Neill Menneer shows Bath people at work.

View a gallery of our Bath@Work subjects at: www.thebathmag.co.uk

Paul Waters Landlord at The Star pub s anyone who has attended one of the Star’s Cornish beer festivals will know, I’m a proud Cornishman. I grew up in Polruan, a small village on the south east coast of Cornwall. They were glorious times in the late 70s and early 80s when, as I remember, summers were always hot! I started bottling up in the local pub at the age of 11 and continued working in various jobs throughout my schooldays.

At the age of 18, I left Polruan to study engineering at Bristol Polytechnic. A sandwich year at the MoD brought me to Bath in the late 80s.

Before coming to the Star, I worked in a variety of pubs, restaurants, hotels and in Waitrose. However, my favourite job was at Chippenham College, where I supported teenagers with severe learning difficulties.

I started work part-time at the Star in 1999, after having got down to S in the phone directory. The pub was very quiet in those days, and I enjoyed getting to know the locals. The Star was taken over by Alan Morgan, owner of Abbey Ales and in 2004, he asked me to become the manager. Thinking it was too good an opportunity to miss, I gave up my other jobs to come here full time.

The pub prides itself on offering a friendly service in a traditional pub environment. We are in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide, where they particularly appreciate the Bass served directly from barrels behind the bar, as well as local Abbey Ales’ Bellringer and seasonal guest beers. Abbey Ales Brewery is less than 400 yards from the front door of the pub, so it is a truly local beer.

A couple of years ago, we got a pub cat who comes down late in the evening when the pub is getting quieter. Kernow (which means Cornwall in Cornish as he is black and white just like the Cornish flag) has proved a great hit with customers, and several regularly bring in toys or treats for him. He spends most of the day asleep upstairs or climbing on my back as I’m trying to get on with my paperwork.

The Star is a very special place. It’s been a pub since 1759 and the building itself is in the shape of a coffin (as is the bench outside). When it came under threat of closure the locals got together to save it and get the building Grade II listed. The bench by the bar is known as Death Row, with the older locals claiming the privilege of sitting nearest the bar. Meeting people and getting to know them is my favourite part of the job and I’ve had fascinating conversations with people from all around the world.

Some locals are in every night, so you get to know them very well.

My girlfriend sometimes gets frustrated by my inability to walk down a road in Bath without saying hello to half a dozen people.

I first pulled a pint in the Star nearly 14 years ago. In that time customers have come and gone, governments, climate, haircuts all change but I want to be here for a long, long time yet and then they can take me out in a real box. ■

A

PORTRAIT: Neill Menneer at Spirit Photographic www.capturethespirit.co.uk Tel: 01225 483151 WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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WHAT’S ON in December Events are listed in chronological order To promote your event visit: www.thebathmag.co.uk

Christmas at Claverton: Ingenious inventions Thursday 28 November – Sunday 22 December The American Museum, Claverton, Bath Each room is dedicated to a different innovation: from the swim fins invented by Benjamin Franklin to the swivel chair designed by Thomas Jefferson, and where he is said to have sat while writing the Declaration of Independence. A 17-foot Christmas tree fills the central hall.

Also at the American Museum Christmas Craft Fair Friday 13 – Sunday 15 December Local craftspeople will be selling original and beautiful things, including jewellery, pottery, textiles, prints and decorative lamps. Entry is free.

Widcombe Christmas lights switch-on Friday 29 November 2013, 6pm for 6.15pm Outside the White Hart, Widcombe Lady Margaret will perform the ceremony, with much cheering anticipated from the crowd, then she and the Natural Theatre invite visitors to wander and enjoy shopping, carols, mulled wine, jazz, jolly japes and all those twinkling Christmas trees.

Christmas at Claverton

★ Editor’s pick Bath Film Festival Until Sunday 8 December

Lady Margaret

Various venues around Bath From the 1946 masterpiece by Jean Cocteau, Beauty and the Beast, to Ralph Fiennes in a new film about Charles Dickens, The Invisible Woman, the festival gathers together an eclectic mix of films for all tastes. Find out more from www.bathfilmfestival.org.uk or pick up a paper programme from the Tourist Information Centre.

Christmas at the Blathwayts’ Saturday 30 November, Sunday 1, Saturday 7, Sunday 8 December, 12 - 4pm Dyrham Park, north of Bath on the A46. National Trust owned The stately home will be decorated for Christmas with a tree in the Great Hall and three other rooms, all decorated. Follow the children’s trail, or walk through the secret servants’ passage which leads to St Peter’s Church.

Ensemble 360 Sunday 1 December, 7.30pm (6.30pm pre-concert talk)

Dorothy House’s service

Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradford-on-Avon Ensemble 360’s oboist Adrian Wilson collaborates with film-maker Katie Goodwin to create a visual ‘transformation’ to accompany Britten: Six Metamorphoses after Ovid, Op 49. Transformation is also the theme behind With Stolen Fire by Charlie Piper, who uses archive footage from the British Film Institute. Alongside these pieces are Schubert’s Trout Quintet and Wagner: Siegfried Idyll. £17 (£16) / Free under-25s. Tickets: 01225 860100.

Also at Wiltshire Music Centre Imogen Cooper, piano and Christianne Stotijn, mezzo-soprano The pair bring their musical chemistry to Britten’s Winter Words, A Charm of Lullabies, from Thomas Hardy’s poetry, Mussorgsky’s The Nursery and Schubert’s Der Winterabend, Im Abendrot and An Mein Herz. £24.

The Woman in Black Monday 2 – Saturday 7 December The Theatre Royal, Bath We defy anyone not to jump out of their seats at this spooky stage Visit our website for more events and things to do. adaptation of the excellent novel by Susan Hill. Now in its 25th year in the To promote your event log on and get listed. www.thebathmag.co.uk West End it still has the power to terrify audiences. For tickets call 01225 448844 or visit: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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WHAT’Son Light up a Life: Dorothy House service Tuesday 3 December, 6pm Bath Abbey Christmas can be a tough time for bereaved families and friends of those who have died. Dorothy House’s annual service brings people together, lighting candles and remembering those in their thoughts and hearts. Bath Camerata will sing for the service.

Christmas Fair: Bath WI Wednesday 4 December, 7.30pm – 9.30pm St Mary’s church hall, Bathwick This talented, creative and lively bunch of women will be selling Christmas gifts of all kinds, from candles and cake to gardening gifts and jewellery.

There’ll be mulled wine and much laughter.

presents

THE SNOWMAN Howard Blakes’s

The film classic on the big screen with live orchestra!

Bowood House Christmas Extravanganza Wednesday 4 – Friday 6 December Bowood House stately home, near Calne The Christmas Extravaganza previews on the Wednesday evening with cocktails and carols. The ticketed preview event, 4-8pm, £15. The Extravaganza will then run from 10am-5pm on Thursday and 10am-4pm on Friday, £6 in advance, £8 on the day. Tickets, tel: 01249 812102, e-mail: reception@bowood.org.

Photographing the stars Thursday 5 December, 7.30pm Lacock Abbey, National Trust, Wiltshire Award winning astro-photographer and author Nick Howes shares some of his photographs of the night sky and offers tips. Bring a camera and weather permitting there will be the chance to take photographs.Tickets £8. Box Office, tel: 0844 249 1895.

Also at Lacock Christmas tree festival Sunday 8 December– Sunday 5 January Stroll through the medieval cloisters and admire 25 Christmas trees decorated by local community groups. Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock or phone: 01249 730 459.

Clare Teal’s Festive Fiesta Thursday 5 December, 7.30pm Chapel Arts, Lower Borough Walls, Bath.

Box office tel: 01225 463362 visit: www.chapelarts.org.uk To coincide with the release of Clare’s new Christmas Album Jing, Jing-a-Ling, take a relaxing, retro journey into Clare Teal’s Festive Fiesta – a unique blend of seasonal swing, cheeky retro grooves and a smattering of cosy fireside ballads to add a little romance. Tickets are £25 or £27.50 on the door.

Plus lots of other seasonal favourites, a fancy dress parade (any costume related to the season) and a visit from Father Christmas!

Monday, 23 December, The Forum, Bath, at 4:00pm

Tickets: £15 adults, and only £8 for children Clare Teal Jing, Jing-a-Ling

Oh, Clarence! by the Argyle Players Wednesday 4 – Saturday 7 December, 7.30pm The Tovey Hall, Central United Reformed Church, Grove Street, Bath A comedy by John Chapman, adapted from the Lord Emsworth stories by PG Wodehouse. Tickets from the Bath Box Office, tel: 01225 463362, or tel: 01225 858112.

Nanny Knows Best book launch Friday 6 December, 6.45pm to 8.30pm Bath Royal Scientific and Literary Institution, Queen Square, Bath Historian Katherine Holden will give a short talk on the history of nannies, followed by a reading from the book. To book a place email: Katherine.Holden@uwe.ac.uk or tel: 07979 985692.

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01225 463362 Bath Box Office

www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

or by phone or online at Ticketline

08448 889991

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WHAT’Son Sculptor Richard Deacon Thursday 5 December, 7.30pm East Building 1.1, University of Bath Richard Deacon, a leading figure in British sculpture and former winner of the Turner Prize, will talk about his work and influences over the past 30 years. £10, £8 concs, £5 students. Box Office: 01225 386777 www.bath.ac.uk/icia.

Christmas. Time.

Friday 6 December, 8pm The Rondo Theatre, St Saviour’s Road, Larkhall Box office tel: 01225 463362 www.rondotheatre.co.uk Tickets: £12/£10 Charlie and Toby are feeling low. It’s Christmas Day and they’re serving time at Her Majesty’s pleasure. What’s stopping them from creating Christmas around them? Absolutely nothing. Join them in a festive show that puts the ‘cell’ firmly back in ‘celebration’as they decide to put on Christmas inside.

Andrew Meller brings Edgar Allen Poe to life

Also at the Rondo Tales from the Shadows: Gothic Horror Stories of Edgar Allen Poe Saturday 7 December, 8pm Tickets: £14/12 Beyond Eternity Productions present tales from Edgar Allan Poe, the undisputed master of gothic horror. Terror fills the auditorium when Andrew Meller brings to life, in his own, inimitable style, Poe’s greatest characters and most menacing scenes. A show for those who revel in being scared and not suitable for the under 14s.

★ Editor’s pick

Widcombe Mummers New Year’s Day, various locations

Widcombe Mummers perform outside Widcombe Manor

FREE The mummers are continuing a tradition of street theatre which dates back to medieval times at various locations in Widcombe starting at noon. This year’s play is The Widcombe Mummers Get Stuck on Halfpenny Bridge after the local disturbances which led to Bath being temporarily isolated from Widcombe. For times and locations visit: www.widcombemummers.org.uk.

Batheaston Christmas Market Saturday 7 December, 2-5pm Church Hall, School Lane, Northend Held in aid of the new village hall fund, stalls will be selling Christmas gifts and stocking fillers, art, craftwork and jewellery. Craft activities for children and decorative and vintage bric-a-brac for sale. Delicious cakes and Christmas high tea.

Handel’s Messiah: Bath Choral Society Friday 6 – Saturday 7 December, 7.30pm

Louis is the Cats’and Dogs’ Home’s canine ambassador

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Bath Abbey, Bath Box Office, www.boxoffice.org.uk, tel: 01225 463362 Bath Choral Society, directed by Will Dawes, will sing its celebrated annual concerts of Handel Messiah. The society will perform with the Bristol Ensemble and soloists Lucy Hall, Catherine Hopper, Thomas Hobbs and Callum Thorpe.

For more information about events and what’s happening in Bath visit our website which is updated daily

Christmas Paper Art Workshop Saturday 7 December

Or to promote your event, log on and get it listed. www.thebathmag.co.uk

Christmas Fantasy at Bath Racecourse Saturday 7 December

DECEMBER 2013

Jessica Palmer’s Widcombe studio Learn paper cutting, paper collage or paper craft in a small group with lunch and all tools and materials provided. Design your own paper art eChristmas card or create a unique paper gift. Suitable for beginners and those who want to improve their skills. £50, to book email: palmerk@outlook.com or tel: 01225 284 598.

Bath Racecourse, Lansdown, Bath Feed the reindeer, have your photo take in a traditional sleigh, enjoy festive party games and visit Santa in his grotto. Tickets, tel: 01225 424609 or visit: www.bath-racecourse.co.uk

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WHAT’Son Festive Indoor Market Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December and Saturday 14/Sunday 15 December

£6, Concs available Bath Box office 01225 463362 www.bathboxoffice.org.uk A festive celebration of brass band and choral music. Join in a carol singalong and children will have the chance to conduct the band. Proceeds go towards the Forever Friends cancer appeal and Bath Spa Band.

Bath Cats & Dogs Home, Claverton, Bath Two weekends of market are being held to raise vital funds for an increasing number of abandoned pets. Sniff out some festive treats for you, the family and your pets. There will also be a furry Father Christmas and a pet friendly Christmas carol service on Sunday 8 December from 5-7pm. Entry is free, visit: www.bcdh.org.uk.

A Christmas Soiree: The Bellini Girls Saturday 7 December The Mission Theatre, 32 Corn Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 463362 www.missiontheatre.co.uk This all-woman close harmony singinging group is hosting a fun and glamorous evening of festive warmth and songs. The girls are joined by Alfie Pugh and The Bellini Backing Band. Tickets £12.50.

Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight Sunday 8 December, 7.30pm Theatre Royal, Bath The choir and orchestra will don full period costume for a recreation of Handel’s Messiah as it would have sounded at its premiere in 1742.

Tickets £23/£25 tel: 01225 448844.

Bath Film Society: La Cage aux Folles Friday 13 December, 7.45pm

The Magic of Motown: December 14 Topping & Co bookshop. Tel: 01225 428111 No stranger to the front-line, journalist Kate Adie looks back to the First World War and how women’s lives changed during and after that conflict. She asks what these women acheived for future generations.

Christmas wreath workshop Wednesday 11 December, 10am - noon Newton Farm Shop, Newton St Lowe Young Blooms florist of Winsley will be teaching how to make a beautiful Christmas wreath.

Tickets £37.50, which includes refreshments and all materials. To book tel: 01225 873707.

Kate Adie Tuesday 10 December, 8pm

Community Christmas Concert: Bath Spa Band & Royal United Hospital Choir Wednesday 11 December, 7.30pm

Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath hosted by

St Michael’s Church, Broad Street, Bath

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BRLSI, Queen Square, Bath This 1978 French film, directed by Edouard Molinaro, is high camp at its stylish best. Arrive a few minutes early and enjoy a glass of wine before the screening. Contact the membership secretary for details, tel: 01225 316410.

Christmas Oratorio: JS Bach Saturday 14 December 7pm St Swithin’s Church, the Paragon, Bath The Bath Minerva Choir and the Southern Sinfonia Baroque with conductor Gavin Carr present Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, sung in English. Tickets £15 (under 16s £5) from www.bathboxoffice.org, tel: 01225 463362.

The Magic of Motown Saturday 14 December, 8pm Bath Forum, St James Parade, Bath The Magic of Motown returns with its I’ll Be There 2013 Tour packed with 36 massive Motown hits celebrating 50 years of the record label. Tickets: £24 Concs: £21 Box office: 01225443114 www.bathforum.co.uk.

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WHAT’Son The Paragon Singers Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm

Simon Schama Wednesday 18 December, 7.30pm

Wiltshire Music Centre, Ashley Road, Bradfordon-Avon The singers will be joined by Bradford Baroque Band and St Laurence School Junior Choir under conductor Keith Bennett, for a delightful programme comprising Bach’s Cantata No 30, Britten A Boy was Born, Purcell’s Birthday Masque from The Fairy Queen, Zelenka Magnificat in D. Tickets: £19/£18/£8 (under 18s), tel: 01225 860100.

Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath, courtesy of Topping & Co bookshop, The Paragon Historian, writer and broadcaster Simon Schama will reflect upon his career, life, and The Story of the Jews, the first volune of his book which accompanied the recent television series. Tickets, £7 in advance, from www.toppingbooks.co.uk.

Mediaeval Carols: Opus Anglicanum Sunday 15 December, 4pm Prior Park College Chapel, Ralph Allen Drive, Bath Candle-lit concert of 15th century English carols and liturgical chant for Christmas in the context of a narration from mediaeval sources. Music by Dunstable, Cornysh and Obrecht. A cushion is advisable. Opus Anglicanum, tel: 01749 677903, visit: www.opus-a.co.uk

Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates 18 – 22 December, 7.15pm Workshop: Exploring Drypoint Kingswood School Theatre, Lansdown Bath Unity Players presents its annual Christmas family-friendly pantomime, Robinson Crusoe and The Pirates, with matinees on 21 and 22 at 2pm. Tickets £10/£8 children and seniors unitytickets@btinternet.com or tel: 01225 427108.

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The City of Bath Bach Choir

The Noise Next Door’s Comedy Lock-in Wednesday 18 December, 8.30pm Komedia, Westgate Street Bath A fast-paced comedy improv show from festival favourites The Noise Next Door. Tickets from £18: www.komedia.co.uk, tel: 0845 293 8480.

Carols by Candlelight: the City of Bath Bach Choir Wednesday 18 – Friday 20 December, 7.30pm The Pump Rooms, Bath Conducted by Nigel Perrin, the programme features a mix of traditional and contemporary carols, with some new carols, arranged to showcase the choir’s versatility and musicality.

There will also be the opportunity for audience participation, so come in good voice. Bath Box Office: 01225 463 362.

Clyve and the Soul City Foundation: plus Rosa Gray Band Thursday 19 December, 7: 30pm Chapel Arts, Lower Borough Walls, Bath.

Box office tel: 01225 463362 visit: www.chapelarts.org.uk Bath and New York based funkster Clyve, and the The Soul City Foundation get you into the Christmas party spirit. Dance the night away to soul classics old and new. Visit: www.clyve.co.uk.

The Bath Camerata Christmas Concert Saturday 21 December, from 6.30pm Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath The award winning chamber choir’s eclectic mix of musical Christmas cheer, with mulled wine and mince pies. Three joyful birthday tributes for the festive season: Britten’s early cantata is a vocal tour-de-force, wonderfully evoking Christmas; Purcell’s birthday masque for King Oberon depicts the changing seasons, while Bach’s Cantata 30 honours John the Baptist.

Tickets, £15, U18s £7.50, tel: 01225 463362.

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WHAT’Son Burlesque and Cabaret Saturday 21 December, from 7.30pm

Paper cutting workshop with Jessica Palmer Saturday 18 January, 10am – 4pm

Chapel Arts, Lower Borough Walls, Bath Headliner femme fatale Domino Barbou is among the performers leading the audience through a fantasy world. With music, comedy and plenty of glamour. Tickets in advance, £16, www.chapelarts.org or tel: 01225 461700. A meal deal before the show is also available.

Museum of East Asian Art, Bennett Street, Bath Paper artist Jessica Palmer will lead this adult workshop. The price of £35 includes free entry to the museum and a curator’s tour, along with all tools and materials. Finished work will be displayed as part of the celebrations of the Lunar New Year of the Horse, 2014. To book a place email: palmerk@outlook.com or call 01225 284598.

Planning ahead for 2014 . . .

New Year in Vienna: the London Gala Orchestra Wednesday 1 January 3pm The Forum Bath 08448889991/01225 463362 Packed full of Strauss classics plus tunes from Lehar and Kalman. Get whisked away into a world of toe tapping waltzes, songs and romance.

Andrew Wicks, compere and tenor, soprano Paula Sides, pryotechnics, a champagne lottery, and a bagpiper for Auld lang Syne. Tickets tel: 08448889991 or 01225 463362.

The Perfect Murder Monday 13 – Saturday 18 January Theatre Royal Bath Les Dennis and Claire Goose star in crime writer Peter James’s story of marriage, murder and dark twists. Tickets, tel: 01225 448844 or visit: www.theatreroyal.org.uk.

Russell Howard’s benefit gig

Russell Howard charity gig Thursday 16 January Komedia, Westgate Street, Bath Comedian Russell Howard is to stage an exclusive benefit gig to raise funds for Bath Rugby Foundation with a show that’s bound to sell out fast. The foundation is an independent charity which aims to enhance the lives of children and young people through sport.

Tickets, £27.50 plus a booking fee. A limited number of Meal Deal tickets will be available, £38 plus booking fee. Visit www.komedia.co.uk/bath or www.bathrugbyfoundation.com.

City of Bath Heraldic Society: Arcadian heraldry Saturday 18 January, 2.30pm Manvers Street Baptist Church, Bath Talk on Arcadian heraldry from speaker Michael Messer, followed by refreshments. Visitors welcome, admission £3. The society meets regularly. Email: john.janet@uwclub.net.

Joseph Wright of Derby: Bath and beyond Saturday 25 January – Monday 5 May The Holburne Museum, Bath The museum will be staging an exhibition of the 18th century painter, Joseph Wright, who lived and worked in Bath for 18 months. He was one of many talented people living in Bath during this period of Georgian cultural flourishing and invention.

Missed the deadline to get your event listed in December’s magazine? You can post your event on our website. Visit: www.thebathmag.co.uk to see what’s on in and around Bath

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ARTS&EXHIBITIONSS

Art for all seasons SNOW IN REDLAND by RICHARD CARTWRIGHT

Woods and Water by Sarah Gillespie

Beaux Arts 12 – 13 York Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 464850 www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

Artists of Fame and Promise Monday 25 November – Tuesday 24 December

Adam Gallery John Street, Bath, tel: 01225 480406

Richard Cartwright: The Master’s Bouquet Saturday 7 – Friday 20 December This exhibition is of new work by Bristol-based artist Richard Cartwright. His paintings have been popular with collectors for many years. His work has lasting appeal as each spectator brings his/her own experience to the work and is captivated by the possibilities that are never fully resolved. Often there is an air of expectancy in the work and the viewer is left wondering what has happened or is soon to happen. Richard paints what we hold inwardly in our mind’s eye: a landscape, an image offering solace, reflection and stillness amidst a fast-paced contemporary lifestyle.

The collection includes paintings by the 2012 National Open Award winner Joy Wolfenden Brown, works on paper by Hare by Sarah Gillespie Sarah Gillespie and new sculptures by John Maltby in his 33rd year of exhibiting with Beaux Arts.

ICIA ART SPACE The University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath

DETAIL OF A PAINTING by GEORGIA COX Bath Artists’ Studios The Old Malthouse, Comfortable Place, Upper Bristol Road, Bath

Journeys in Crimea and Odessa: The Faces They Have Vanished Until Friday 16 January, open Monday to Friday 10am-5pm

Christmas art supermarket Late night shopping, Friday 6 December, 5–9pm, open Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December, 11am – 5pm

Ruth Maclennan’s exhibition is a mixture of images and encounters drawn from her journeys in Crimea and Odessa. Using film, photography and sound, the works excavate and expose the remnants of a political experiment. Free admission, tel: 01225 386777.

Enjoy a spot of Christmas shopping as the artists throw open their doors for a weekend’s art supermarket. Pick up an original piece from a wide array which includes everything from a small token to a big statement.

The studios are an arts education charity and the artists are fundraising to buy the building for future generations. Call in, meet the artists and enjoy a coffee or a seasonal mulled wine in the café. The artists have been busy making willow lanterns which will be seen on the evening of 28 November at the Roman Baths for the Holburne Museum’s children’s lantern procession through the streets of Bath.

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The Holburne Museum Great Pulteney Street, Bath

Characters: People and Portraits from the Arts Council Collection Until 7 January Admission to the Holburne is free, but for £6.95 visitors can enjoy a visit to this eclectic collection of portraits of people real and imagined from artists including Peter Blake, Paula Rego and

By Milena Dragicevic Hew Locke.

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ARTS&EXHIBITIONS DETAIL FROM TOWPATH by NICK CUDWORTH Nick Cudworth Gallery London St, top of Walcot Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 445221, visit: www.nickcudworth.com

Reflections Tuesday 3 – Tuesday 24 December A favourite walk of artist Nick Cudworth is the towpath along the Kennet and Avon canal as it runs through Bath. Over the years it has inspired many paintings which include bridges, canal boats, the towpath and locks, capturing the light and atmosphere created by the reflections on the water. Images include the elegant Georgian buildings that overlook parts of the canal and the beautiful Sydney Gardens Bridge. The seasons are portrayed by the flora and fauna that is found along the towpath within Bath and the entry into Bath from Batheaston. Reflections is an exhibition of originals and limited edition prints.

HYDE PARK WALK by KEVIN HUGHES

ECLECTIC EYE at ANTHONY HEPWORTH

SOPHIE

Anthony Hepworth Fine Art Dealers Margaret’s Buildings, Bath BA1 2LP. Tel: 01225 310694.

Thursday – Saturday 11am – 5pm

An Eclectic Eye VII 23 November – 11 December The Christmas show this year is, as its title implies, a rich mix from diverse talents and cultures.

It includes a group of paintings by an English primitive artist, bus driver, Henry Stockley and works by Mick Lindberg, Edgard Pillet, Sandra Blow, LS Lowry, Prunella Clough, Nick Moore, Kenneth Hall and Phelan Gibb together with tribal art and objects from Africa, India, Oceania, China and The Americas, also interesting furniture and rugs.

Gallery Nine Margaret’s Buildings, Bath www.gallerynine.co.uk Tel: 01225 319197

Christmas Exhibition, Until 24 December Hand-crafted gifts, including watercolours by Kevin Hughes, ceramics by Katrin Moye and jewellery by Laura Baxter, Marlene Mckibble and Caroline Reynolds.

DETAIL FROM NIGHTWORK by JANE STOBART Bath Contemporary 35 Gay Street, Bath Tel: 01225 461230

www.bathcontemporary.com Saturday 7 December - 18 January Paintings and original prints from six members of the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers; Corinna Button, Howard Jeffs, Jackie Newell, Sumi Perera, Jane Stobart and Francis Tinsley. There will also be talks and demonstrations by the artists (booking is essential): Friday 6 December, 6.30 - 7pm artist’s talk by Jackie Newell, followed by a talk

by Corinna Button at 7 – 7.30pm. On Thursday 12 December 2-3pm there will be an artist’s print demonstration by Howard Jeffs.

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QUERCUS GALLERY

nick cudworth gallery

PRESENTS

GLEAM

An exhibition of contemporary jewellery, ceramics, textiles, handmade accessories, paintings & prints.

The Angler - Oil on Canvas

REFLECTIONS Exhibition from 3 – 24 December

6 DECEMBER - 18 JANUARY 1 QUEEN ST. BATH www.quercusgallery.co.uk

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An exhibition of paintings and prints by Nick Cudworth Various aspects of the Kennet and Avon Canal as it runs through Bath.

5 London Street (top end of Walcot Street), Bath BA1 5BU tel 01225 445221 / 07968 047639 gallery@nickcudworth.com www.nickcudworth.com

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ARTS&EXHIBITIONS RED BARN by URSULA LEACH

DREAM by TRUDY MONTGOMERY

Hilton Fine Art Margaret’s Buildings, Bath Tel: 01225 311311

100 under £500 Saturday 7 – Saturday 21 December Featuring 100 original paintings, ceramics, prints and jewellery including work by Louise Balaam, Becky Blair, Peter Davies, Stewart Gedes, Bo Hilton, Rose Hilton, Rachael Kantaris, Ursula Leach, Mary Kaun-English, Arthur Neal, Salliann Putman and Richard Twose. A fantastic opportunity to collect art at affordable prices and to find a unique and individual present.

GLYCINE CREOL RED by DAMIEN HIRST

LIONHEART COVER by ED KLUZ

Lane House Arts Nelson Place East, Bath, BA1 5DA Tel: 07767 498403 www.lanehousearts.co.uk

Winter colour Until end of January This exhibition of contemporary art and ceramics brings colour and warmth to winter with new abstracts by Trudy Montgomery, Kathryn Stevens, Susanna Lisle, Beryl Robinson and Julie Smith.

Victoria Art Gallery Owned by Bath & North East Somerset Council

Ione Parkin: Primal Matter Until 2 February

The White Room Gallery Brock Street, Bath BA1 2LN. Tel: 01225 331500

White Christmas Until 31 January This is a cracker of a mixed Christmas exhibition featuring a wide selection of artists including Damien Hirst, Sir Peter Blake and Roy Lichtenstein. The collection also includes a selection of colourful new screen-prints by the Bristol based artist Lionel Friedland. For more information visit: www.thewhiteroomgallery.com.

Quercus Gallery Queen Street, Bath. Tuesday – Saturday 10.30am – 5.30pm, open late Thursdays, December

Gleam Friday 6 December – 18 January Bright and beautiful artwork for the winter months, this mixed show presents an original collection of paintings, prints, ceramics, textiles and hand-made accessories. Also featuring: Five Gold Rings – a display of silver and gold jewellery by five contemporary designers.

Admission Free Ione Parkim’s one-person show presents a new body of intricately balanced work, rich in colour and texture – from the dynamically dramatic to the lyrically luminous. All works are for sale. Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sundays 1.30pm -5pm; closed Mondays and bank holidays.

Royal United Hospital Combe Park, Bath

Faces (Bath)

WHITE HEN by SALLY GARDINER

Amanda

Time and Space Gallery The Avenue, Combe Down, Bath. Tel: 01225 830310. Visit: www.bathtimeandspacegallery.com

Winter Show Open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Friday Step out of the cold and into the warmth to discover exciting new work by a group of talented local artists including ceramics, contemporary jewellery, paintings, original prints, textiles and handmade cards.

Visit our website for more exhibitions and gallery information To promote your exhibition, log on and get it listed: www.thebathmag.co.uk

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Until 15 January Unlike the well-known face of Bath, the Georgian buildings admired the world over, Faces {Bath} explores the faces of the people who give the city life, and who keep it running. Artists, Malcolm Ashman, Ben Hughes and R Scott Fraser observe and paint portraits of real people. Admission free.

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FOOD&DRINK

Foodie nibbles ■ On Thursday 12 and Friday 13 December, for two days only, Chateau Marmot, the touring pop-up restaurant will bring its brand of culinary magic to the Bath Forum. With executive chef Ramael Scully, moonlighting from his job as the executive chef at London’s Ottolenghi restaurants, diners can enjoy a four course tasting menu for £42 a head – with the promise that the food will be far from boring, bland Christmas fare. For tickets visit: www.chateaumarmot.co.uk.

The bar will be open from 12pm-11pm on both days, serving cocktails, craft beers and wine and is open to diners and nondiners alike.

■ We may have come late to the party, but we recently stumbled on the White Row Farm shop near Beckington and were amazed at how much delicious and varied produce it offers under one roof.

To say it’s a farm shop is a bit of an understatement, although the freshly grown veg did look good and the meat counter inspired thoughts of tasty dinners. But then there’s the Scallop Shell fresh fishmongers counter, all sorts of treats such as chutneys, jams, chocolate and the sort of sauces you always intend to make at home but rarely get round to.

May we recommend a pre-Christmas visit as a one-stop shop for seasonal foodie goodies? It’s open daily, visit: www.whiterowfarm.co.uk for more details.

■ Abbey Ales is celebrating Christmas by launching two seasonal beers, Bath Best and Oh Mr Porter. Simon Morgan who runs the brewery is a great fan of Will Hay. He said: “The name comes from the 1937 film Oh, Mr Porter! – a British comedy starring Will Hay, with Moore Marriott and former Bath landlord Graham Moffatt who was licensee at the Englishcombe Inn.“ The two new beers can be found at The Star Inn, the Assembly Inn, the Coeur de Lion and the Trinity Inn.

CALLED TO THE BAR: the Royal Crescent Hotel’s newly refurbished Montagu Bar is an elegant oasis where Bathonians are welcome to call in and enjoy a cocktail or glass of Prosecco. You can now access the bar from the hotel’s discreet entrance in Julian Road – simply ring the bell and you’ll be welcomed to this most stylish of venues

City’s top chefs gather for food awards The city’s chefs swapped their whites for suits and ties for an evening held to celebrate the best of Bath’s food scene. The Bath Good Food awards 2013 – with votes from the public creating a shortlist – were held at Bath Racecourse in front of an audience of more than 300.

From the shortlist the judges then dined at each restaurant and picked the winner in each category. For the best producers’ awards the judges underwent a blind tasting of all the products.

Here are some of the winners: ● Best deli: Blue Quails ● Best sandwich: Made by Ben ● Best alfresco: The Hare & Hounds ● Best tapas: Koh Thai Tapas ● Best butcher: Larkhall Butchers ● Best cakes: Indulgence Cafe ● Best Italian: Nonna ● Best British: The King William ● Best Asian: Yen Sushi ● Best Indian: The Mint Room ● Best French: Casanis ● Best chain: Bill’s ● Best pub food: The King William

Apres ski comes to city centre Enjoy all the pleasure of an apres ski bar without even having to head for the mountains, as the Abbey Hotel sets up its own ski chalet, complete with snow, right in the heart of the city of Bath.

Shoppers will be able to take a break from touring the Christmas market to visit the Ski Chalet on the pavement outside the hotel, which will be open from 11am daily serving warming Alpine inspired cakes, drinks, soups and stews.

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and linzertorte as well as traditional British mince pies and cream, plus a daily changing selection of soups and stews served with Hobbs House bread.

In the evenings, drop in after work for vin chaud, mulled cider and seasonal cocktails created by Art Bar mixologist Andrew Fisher, who promises his own tasty version of a Snowball. The Ski Bar can also be booked for exclusive parties, email Ian Taylor: Iantaylor@abbeyhotelbath.co.uk.

DECEMBER 2013

TROPHY TIME: the team from Menu Gordon Jones, with Gordon holding the award, picking up the Best Restaurant prize from sponsor, jeweller Nicholas Wylde and head judge of the Bath Good Food awards, Angela Mount

● Best Sunday lunch: The Hare and Hounds ● Best family-friendly: Giraffe ● Best vegetarian: Chapel Arts Café ● Best café food: Green Rocket Café ● Best newcomer: Yammo! ● Best restaurant: Menu Gordon Jones ● Best chef: Chris Staines at the Allium Brasserie ● Best ambassador for Bath food: Sam Moody Sam said: “I am so proud to

have won this award and to have been recognised for the work I do promoting Bath and its food outside of my work at The Priory. It’s an honour to have been awarded this by my peers.”

Students from the City of Bath College, under the tutelage of Michelin star holder Sam Moody prepared a three course dinner for the event – a daunting challenge given the calibre of the audience.

For a full list of winners visit: www.bathgoodfood.co.uk. ■

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Very Best Wishes for the Festive Season From all the Team at THEBATHMAGAZINE Advertisers Please Note: The Deadline for Receiving Copy for the January Issue is Wednesday December 11th Telephone 01225 424 499

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

December Festive lunch/dinner menu from £17.55 Christmas Day Celebratory seven course menu £80

NewYear’s Eve Spectacular five course Hogmanay menu £75 7a Kingsmead Square, Bath, BA1 2AB Tel: 01225 466688 www.thekiltedchef.com reservations@thekiltedchef.com

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life

Time to celebrate Why spend the party season slumped in front of the television in your onesie when this beautiful city of ours is hosting a myriad of parties and events to celebrate Christmas and to see in the new year in style? Firstly, select your companions with care, book your night out and put on your best party dress and dancing shoes

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t a former workplace, and in a much less happy atmosphere than we enjoy at Bath Mag Towers, the Christmas ‘party’ was a grim affair involving a folding artificial tree, a mix tape of seasonal music and several boxes of Mr Kipling mince pies consumed through articificial smiles as we hoped the bosses saw the joke behind our Secret Santa gifts.

If you recognise that scenario and vow that your colleagues deserve something altogether more riotous you could book them in to a Bubble Christmas party at Bath Racecourse.

These party nights run right through until 21 December and offer the lure of a reindeer rodeo, glitter make-up, a decent dancefloor and three course dinner, all for £29.95 a head. These party nights are shared with other companies, which creates much more of a buzz and you might even get Merv the IT man to throw a few shapes. Call: 01225 424609 to book.

In the run-up to Christmas the intimate setting of Menu Gordon Jones’ Bear Flat restaurant will no doubt have a great party atmosphere as Gordon – who recently won Best Restaurant at the Bath Good Food awards – will be serving his guests an alternative Christmas feast of seven courses for £55. Tel: 01225 480871.

The Royal Crescent Hotel is hosting a suitably elegant New Year’s Eve dinner. You don’t need to be a hotel resident to join the party. This includes a whole host of things, including a festive drink and Royal Crescent quiz in the early evening, with prizes, a Champagne and canapés reception and a five course black tie dinner with wine, followed by a DJ and dancing before seeing in the new year at midnight with a glass of Champagne. £215 per person (non resident). For more details call: 01225 823333.

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MUSICAL TREAT: Tenors Unlimited at the Allium

provide the setting for a black tie New Year’s Eve dinner and entertainment which begins with a cocktail reception around the torch-lit baths.

There’ll be a five course dinner and entertainment from bands to a disco, fun casino and Champagne bar. Tickets: from £90 – £120 per person, depending on where you’re sitting.

Contact caterers Searcys on 01225 444477 or email emma.gerrett@searcys.co.uk.

For those who’d like a good laugh to see out 2013, Komedia is holding an evening of comedy, with three stand-ups spots and a compere. A three course celebratory dinner and a seat for the show is £45. You can upgrade tickets to stay on and dance the night away to Motorcity Gold disco. For tickets visit: www.komedia.co.uk.

If you’ve had a successful year, you could see in 2014 sampling dishes created by Michelin starred chef and all-round good guy Sam Moody at the Bath Priory. The hotel is inviting non-residents to join an exclusive 1920s themed black tie dinner with dancing afterwards in the Drawing Room, for £230 per head to include wines and Champagne and fireworks. Tel: 01225 331922.

The Allium Brasserie at the Abbey Hotel is hosting the Rat Pack of opera, Tenors Unlimited

for a pre-Christmas party on Tuesday 17 December from 7.30pm.

The trio has performed all over the country including singing at the FA Cup Final. The evening comprises Christmas cocktail and canapés, followed by a three course dinner and wines for each course, £85 per person. For tickets call: 01225 461603.

On New Year’s Eve the Allium is laying on a black tie party to welcome in 2014, with a menu designed by head chef Chris Staines, recently crowned Best Chef in the Bath Good Food awards. The evening begins with a cocktail and canapé reception before moving through to enjoy a five course menu, while from 10.30pm the party continues with DJ Charles Hart, only breaking at midnight to usher in the New Year with a piper and Champagne. Tickets are £95 per person.

If there’s a man who knows how to celebrate Hogmanay, it’s The Kilted Chef of Kingsmead Square, aka Dougie Bonar. Dougie and his team will be laying on a five course banquet, with Scots beef fillet as the main course. Guests will be welcomed with prosecco on arrival and as 2014 arrives there’ll be a traditional whisky toast to the new year. For tickets, which are £75, tel: 01225 466688.

The newly refurbished Bailbrook House Hotel is the setting for not one but two, black tie New Year’s Eve dinner parties. One will be held in the Cloisters restaurant with a pianist, while the other is in the Brunel suite with a band and disco. Both are £139 a head. Call: 01225 855100.

There are lots more New Year’s Eve dinners going on in Bath’s restaurants and hotels. Aio Sardinia and The Porter in George Street both have special evenings planned, as does Nonna’s Italian in Gay Street, which recently won Best Italian in the Bath Good Food awards. ■

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The Crystal Palace 10 – 11 Abbey Green, Bath BA1 1NN Tel: 01225 482666

R E V I EW

A warm welcome at the Palace

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hen word goes out in the taprooms of Bath that yet another pub has closed, there are always a few moments of respectful reflection for another part of our rich cultural heritage lost.

And when we hear that a pub is about to undergo a makeover, it is with some trepidation that we step over the threshold to visit the watering hole after it’s been made over.

We’d heard that the venerable and historic Crystal Palace had been given a facelift by London brewery Fuller’s. But would it still welcome those of us who’d like a pint with lunch and a quiet hour with a crossword? Worse still, would the revamped Palace be wall to wall hipsters with their tweed caps and ironic moustaches?

Well, the good news is that the old Palace has been lovingly and carefully restored, a real fire burning in one bar and the walls covered in pictures, many of them of old Bath and some of that great British hero Admiral Nelson, who is reputed to have stayed at the inn in its previous incarnation, The Three Tuns. They’ve even retained the wood panelled walls in one bar.

Fuller’s has included some of the better aspects of a proper London pub, like its real ale and a menu mainly of pub classics like shepherd’s pie and ham, egg and chips. There’s brunch served at weekends, roasts on Sunday and (a personal favourite of mine) a pub quiz on a Tuesday. I’ll get back to you on how that is once I’ve tried it.

Food is served all day and evening too so there’s none of that old-fashioned English custom of turning hungry people away.

The Friday lunchtime we called in was busy with locals and tourists. A group of men stood at the bar enjoying a pint, while a party of French speaking customers, sitting under a picture of Nelson, tucked into healthy sized portions of fish 70 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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and chips. Landlady Kim Rennie, who arrived just over a year ago and so is braced for the Christmas market crowds, and her team were bustling about but an air of efficient, friendly calm was maintained.

Between us we sampled a vegetarian pear and Bath blue cheese tart (£6.75 and a generous starter or as a light lunch) served on a bed of fresh watercress, with caramelised walnuts. It was delicious. Mary Berry would approve of the perfectly crisp pastry – not a soggy bottom in sight. Another vegetarian option followed for my dining companion, a main course portion of wild mushroom ravioli (£10.95) with buttery almonds and healthy spinach – this dish won the thumbs-up and was despatched with gusto.

for hot, crispy chips ❝asopta side, or a mug of warming soup, which might be nice if you’ve frozen your butt off on a tour of the Christmas market

❞

A burger is a good test of a pub kitchen and this did not disappoint (£10.50 with relish and chips). It was served on a plate (not a wooden board, I’m pleased to report), cooked to just the right degree, faintly pink in the middle, juicy and when you cut in half managable in one of my chubby fists eaten as it should be, rather than with a knife and fork. I would also recommend the chips, lightly coated in polenta, plump, hot and crisp.

The Crystal Palace serves sandwiches too (from £6.50) and for an additional £1.50 you

can opt for hot, crispy chips as a side, or a mug of warming soup, which might be nice if you’ve frozen your butt off on a tour of the Christmas market. If you can bag a cosy seat by that fire this would be doubly pleasurable.

The pub has retained its conservatory at the back which doubles as a dining room, although Kim is at pains to continue to welcome her regulars and the drinkers who still want to frequent a proper pub. For warmer weather there’s the courtyard at the back with tables and chairs, and patio heaters.

As pubs continue to close at an alarming rate it’s good to see historic inns like this one saved for future generations. There has been a pub on this side of Abbey Green since the 17th century, The Three Tuns being superseded by The Crystal Palace, named in honour of the Great Exhibition of 1851 when all the wonders of the Victorian Empire were gathered together under one giant glass roof in London.

Fuller’s, or to give it its proper title, Fuller, Smith and Turner, is about to unveil the newlook Huntsman to a waiting world, and after that the rugby supporters’ favourite The Boater is also due for a facelift. Judging by what’s happened at the Crystal Palace, I don’t think Bathonians need to be too worried.

Bookings are now being taken for Christmas parties at the Palace. The festive menu is £20.95 for two courses, £25.95 for three. Dishes include London Porter smoked salmon, beetroot and fennel salad, roast Norfolk turkey with pigs in blanket and braised blade of beef with horseradish and rosemary dumplings.

If you’re passing Abbey Green – either as part of the Christmas market or to escape it – do call into the Crystal Palace and raise a pint of London Pride to the good old British boozer. Al Murray’s Pub Landlord would surely approve.

GMc

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Christmas at Carluccio’s in Bath Gather friends and family around the table for a festive feast at Carluccio’s in Milsom Place, Bath. Our Christmas menu will bring you the best of Italy, with a choice of three-courses for £22; or a very merry four-courses for £32 with Prosecco and Christmas crackers.

Head to the food shop for our beautiful range of Christmas products, including gift boxes, cakes, biscuits and confectionary.

From traditional Panettone to honey cantucci biscuits and torrone, each item has been carefully selected by our Italian producers for being the finest it can be.

For further information, please visit www.carluccios.com Carluccio’s, Milsom Place, Somerset, BA1 1BZ | 01225 312 604

We deliver to over 20,000 addresses every month. But if you live outside our distribution area or would like us to send a copy to friends or family then we are able to offer a mailing service for only £15.00 (6 issues) or £25.00 Euro zone; £30.00 (12 issues) or £50.00 Euro zone World Zone 1 £95.00 World Zone 2 £120.00 To subscribe just send a cheque payable to MC Publishing Ltd 2 P r in c e s B u il d i n g s , G e o r g e S t r e e t , B a t h B A 1 2 E D o r Te le ph o ne 0 1 22 5 4 2 4 4 9 9 f or c ar d p a y me nt

Subscription Form Mr/Mrs/Ms ................Forename ..............................................

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THE WINE COLUMN Angela Mount, wine and food critic, selects her ideal wine for a perfect Christmas Day

E

very year I plan to get organised; to buy presents in November; and to have a stress-free run up to Christmas. But I know I’ll be the one racing round shops in Bath with about a week to go. It will be fine; it will happen; it always does. But one part of the Christmas jigsaw puzzle that I have worked out is picking the perfect Christmas Day wines. I’d kick off the day with a glass of breakfast bubbles, with or without fresh orange juice, in the form of Ruggeri Prosecco Brut Quartese NV ( £13.95 GWW); then I’d get the bird in the oven, and gently move into the following to keep my guests happy.

Champagne Gobillard Brut Grande Reserve Premier Cru NV, £22 GWW Forget the big names; try one of the lesser known, but frequently better quality and nearly always far better value Champagnes from small individual growers, like Gobillard (it’s a bit like supporting local producers and independents over the big chains). The main reason to pick this top class fizz is its sheer style – made with 50% chardonnay, it has a lightness of touch that you won’t find in all Champagnes; with a pristine stream of tiny bubbles skipping up to the top of the glass. It has a soft, creamy, welcoming style, with aromas and flavours of russet apples and toasted brioche, lifted by a delicious edge of citrusy freshness and verve.

Who can prepare the perfect Steak and Kidney Pie? The Gravy is the essential element - it must set into a jelly with the pieces of steak and kidney embedded in it. Then the pie is better cold than hot. (With a crisp salad and a fresh Burgundy). Also short crust pastry and a few other things.

If you have thought these thoughts already, you probably can make a pie of this kind.

If so, please (whether restaurant professional or keen home cook) reply to

bathfoodie@mail.com

Macon Fuisse, Domaine Paquet 2012, £12.28 GWW There’s something about Christmas lunch which always draws me to white Burgundy – it’s the richness and sumptuousness of the whole event – the food, the decorations, the presents, the warmth of the family occasion. But in my view, it’s never the time to bring out the very top Burgundies, so I look for special, classic, yet great value wines, that are going to please my guests. Think Pouilly Fuisse, without the price tag. Elegant and stylish with its ripe yet reined-in baked apple, cream, and toasted hazelnut character. It will work perfectly with any seafood or smoked salmon starter and will also be a great match to goose or turkey.

Carrick Unravelled Pinot Noir, Central Otago, NZ 2011, £12.76 GWW For me, no Christmas feast is complete without a decent bottle of Pinot Noir. From Central Otago, the home of some of the best Pinot Noirs in New Zealand, this has to be the best deal around this Christmas, for top quality Pinot Noir. It’s just glorious.

Packed with sumptuous aromas of wild cherries and violets, it’s a soft style of red, with a lightness of touch, no tough tannins, yet with a simply glorious richness of effortless, velvety, seductive, bright fruit flavours. Gentle oak touches add to the delicious ripe berry fruit, and make for an irresistible combination, which will match beautifully with all the rich, spicy, herby, fruity trimmings and stuffings that will be thrown in with the turkey or goose.

Patricius Late Harvest Tokaji Katinka 2011, 37.5cl £11.88 GWW Christmas is the time to indulge in a glorious dessert wine to match the sweet delights. Port is always a classic, but I’d urge you to try something slightly different, which not only has a lighter, more citrusy style, but is only 11.5% alcohol, compared to over 18% in Port. It’s from the historic region of Tokay in Hungary. It’s sweet, and full of ripe, dried apricot, mango and raisin flavours, with an intense aroma of rich, Scottish honey, and candied orange; but don’t be deceived; it has an incredible freshness, despite its sweetness, with a bold, citrus-spiked, edge, which will do a superb job at perking up any jaded palate.

All of the above, plus a mixed case can be ordered through our website. Enjoy a 10% Great Western Wine discount by entering the code on Angela’s wine column. Visit : www.thebathmag.co.uk

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News in brief ■ Hair stylist Katie Groves, pictured, has joined the Aveda cutting and colour team at Artizan George Street. Katie said: “I’m excited to be joining George Street because it gives me the opportunity to offer my clients that little bit extra. I love the relaxing environment and believe my clients will too.” Tel: 01225 447087 or visit: www.artizan.co.uk.

■ Bath-based Withy King has achieved 12 top-tier rankings in nine specialist areas in the independent guide Chambers UK 2014. A further four solicitors have been recognised by Chambers as Leaders in their Field bringing the total at the firm with this accolade to 30. Partners Amanda Noyce and Caroline Preist have been named as Notable Practitioners in their respective areas of contentious trusts and real estate litigation – and have been named Leaders in their Field, along with partners Paul Daniels and Sharon MacDonald. Associate Greg Callard has been named Associate to Watch while partner Jon Toogood has been named Eminent Practitioner.

■ Accountant Jill Robson, pictured, has joined chartered accountants Monahans. She will assist Martin Longmore in providing accountancy services to business and personal clients. Her extensive knowledge of company and personal tax matters will be invaluable in helping Monahans clients. Jill has returned to the UK following two years in Australia. She lives in Stroud with her husband and two young daughters.

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London restoration architects open Bath office Chris Dyson Architects is opening a Bath office in Pierrepont Street, which will be run by Harry Whittaker RIBA. The London practice was founded in 2003 and is based in an 18th century silk weavers house in Spitalfields.

Chris Dyson Architects, which specialises in the repair and conservation of historic buildings, has won a number of awards. Projects include residential,

RESTORED: Bryngwilla Lodge, Oswestry, was a derelict early 19th century gate lodge restored and refurbished by Chris Dyson Architects as estate offices

civic, commercial and arts based schemes with a strong emphasis on

design and sustainability.

The practice is known

for designing bespoke homes which usually involve the restoration and refurbishment of historic structures, such as this old gatehouse.

Each scheme is approached with the aim to rationalise the internal living space and work with existing elements to create a clean and well lit space for modern living.

See examples of past projects at: www.chrisdyson.co.uk.

Hub for creatives

GREEN TOURISM: a delighted Alison Howell, founder of Box-based Foot Trails walking holidays business picks up her national award at the 2013 Green Tourism GoldStar awards, from Earth Pilgrim Satish Kumar

The Guild, a new workspace for creative and technical professionals has opened at the city’s Guildhall. It offers the chance for small and start-up businesses to use an affordable base and to make use of conference and meeting rooms and library.

Bath Spa University has already been making good use of the city-centre location, bringing students,

academic staff and local professionals together. Students will also be curating a gallery space for emerging talent.

The project was initiated by Tom Lewis of web marketing agency FirstExact and supported by law firm Mogers, communications company Gradwell, Bath and North East Somerset Council and Bath Spa University.

Degree honour for Booker Prize winner Booker Prize-winning author Hilary Mantel CBE has described her delight at receiving an honorary degree from Bath Spa University, writes Alex Clere. She was awarded a Doctorate of Arts in a ceremony at the Assembly Rooms, before engaging in conversation with fellow writer and Professor of Creative Writing at Bath Spa, Fay Weldon. Mantel described Bath Spa as a wonderfully dynamic, young university.

She said: “Bath Spa has got one of the best-known and most successful creative writing courses in the UK. It’s very much something close to my heart, to encourage new talent and new writers, so it is great to be associated with an institution like this.”

The presentation of the honorary degree was

made by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christina Slade. Bath Spa University Vice-Provost Professor Tim Middleton, who delivered the citation, described Mantel as ‘one of the most important writers of her generation.’ Renowned for her historical fiction including Wolf Hall, which charts the rise of Thomas Cromwell, Hilary Mantel became the first female writer to win the Man Booker Prize twice. Her work is being prepared for adaptation to TV and theatre, while the third novel The Mirror and the Light looks set to be released in 2015.

The creative writing course at Bath Spa has been running for over 20 years and has become one of the most successful and popular in the UK.

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WILL I ENJOY A FAMILY CHRISTMAS AGAIN? The break-up may be unavoidable but the way you separate and divorce could determine whether enjoyable times of the year, like Christmas, will be looked forward to again.

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new poll of the UK’s ‘Christmas stress factors’ finds that people in the South West, particularly divorced or separated couples, are bracing themselves for a stressful festive season.

According to the research, one in three people in the region say they’re not looking forward to Christmas, rising to one in two amongst those who are divorced or separated.

The data from the poll, published last month, assessed a range of festive stress factors and found that making family arrangements, a fear of loneliness and deciding where to spend Christmas are all causing “significant” concerns for many families in the region particularly divorced or separated couples, making the festive season difficult for them.

It’s a season that puts real strains on couples.

For those who find it all too much, face a broken relationship, are going through a separation, or are contemplating divorce, it can often be made significantly less stressful and more financially manageable, with an awareness of the ways that problems can be addressed following a break-up.

❝

It is a season that puts, strains on couples

❞

The key thing to remember is that - contrary to what some might think – the process of separation and divorce, whilst traumatic, doesn’t have to involve conflict, confrontation, or the courts. Whilst for some couples litigious court action will be unavoidable, for many others, an understanding of the available alternatives to court, can lead to the process being less traumatic, reduce conflict and importantly negate the impact on them and their families.

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

There are a range of dispute resolution options to choose from that need no attendance at Court, help you to maintain control, leaves the decision making in your hands and holds out the prospect of reduced conflict, expense and time. They include: • Family mediation - where the mediator (a neutral professional third party) facilitates communication and helps couples to arrive at an agreement acceptable to all without offering legal advice or advocating for either party.

According to the ❝ research, one in three people in the region say they’re not looking forward to Christmas

❞

Call us on 01225 448955 for an advice guide for couples going through separation or divorce published by Resolution or download it at: www.resolution.org.uk/separatingtogether

• Collaborative practice - where specially trained family lawyers and other professionals provide a safe environment in which positions are defused and goals developed. This enables couples to make informed decisions and work strictly towards settlement at their pace and without the threat of court intervention.

• Constructive negotiation - where couples negotiate their proposals through lawyer's letters or "round the table” meetings, adjusting them on advice until an acceptable middle ground is reached.

• Arbitration - where an arbitrator, after ensuring all the relevant facts are gathered together, takes into account a couple’s views on what they think should happen and gives a binding ruling or award.

At Sharp Family Law, the largest niche firm of family solicitors in Bath, we will talk you through the options and help you decide on the one that holds out the best way for you to arrange your separation and divorce in the long-term interests of all family members, so that enjoyable times of the year, like Christmas, can be looked forward to, even after divorce.

Richard Sharp

sharp F A M I LY L A W Sharp Family Law: Helping clients to reach solutions 5, Gay Street, BATH, BA1 2PH, UK email: richard@sharpfamilylaw.com: m: 07798 606740 t: 01225 448955 website: www.sharpfamilylaw.com blog: www.familylawcollaborativedivorce.co.uk DECEMBER 2013

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SPUR OF THE MOMENT Made in Britain and highly desired by the world’s super-rich.

Dara Foley enjoys the fastest and finest example of four-door automotive luxury.

It’s quite a big event when the new 2014 Bentley Flying Spur visits Bath.

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ne of the great ironies of modern times is that the communist led People’s Republic of China may well have done a much better job of managing the last six years of capitalist meltdown than all the elected governments of the west. As the Obamas, Merkels, Camerons and Cleggs have pondered, while shuffling their feet, the tiger economy of China has roared, advancing with ravishing strides. Within a generation, some half a billion people have been elevated out of poverty to create the world’s largest middle-class demographic. This is state-sanctioned capitalism that now fuels a powerhouse of long-term consumer demand and especially fertile ground for the luxury brands of the world to take root and prosper.

In 2009 China surpassed the US to become the worlds largest car market and with sales in 2013 expected to top a staggering 18 million, Beijing alone is expected to have more sales in the luxury segment than the US and western Europe combined. Bentley, now with 38 dealerships, was one of the first luxury car marques to establish itself in China. With a current average of 2,300 Bentleys snapped up each year, China is second only to the US in sales. So little wonder that earlier this year Bentley's PR gurus chose an 80km route from Beijing to the Great Wall for the maiden drive of its new luxury saloon; the Flying Spur.

Despite a 200% luxury car tax, modern China has discovered the joy of supreme opulence and a new long black Bentley is the finest ostentation of status. However China also boasts the greatest number of chauffeurs, so most owners might only appreciate half of what this incredible machine offers.

Auto enthusiasts will have noticed that the 2014 Flying Spur does not use "Continental" in its name. Historically, Bentley has used the "Continental Flying Spur" badge on two types of four-door cars since 1957. The first was a four-door saloon body, made to order by coachbuilders H. J. Mulliner & Co. in London and placed on a Continental chassis at the Bentley motorworks in Crewe. The second version, from 2006, is a four-door version, again using the Continental chassis but with the whole car produced in Crewe. With the 2014 Flying Spur, Bentley decided to drop the moniker to clearly distinguish it from its sporty two-door Continental GT. The new generation of Flying Spur owners, as well as the traditional ones will not be disappointed, inside they will find themselves in a spacious cabin, cosseted and enveloped in plush, hand stitched and diamond quilted leather, with deep wool carpeting underfoot, and a pleasance of high polished wood and brushed metal all around, not forgetting the famous embroidered Bentley wings in the headrests and the Breitling analogue clock in the dashboard.

Outside, re-designed lines update the coachwork with a striking new, smoother front end with the larger LED headlamp moved to the outside, and a full-width lower air-intake. The softer lines sharpen down the wings culminating in broad, muscle-car haunches over the rear wheel arch. Nothing new in the finish though, Bentley's trademark paintwork - noticeably rich and glasslike. There's also a respectful reintroduction of the famous Flying-B, no longer on the bonnet, but on the two side vents.

Bentley owners will know and expect the highest specifications. After all at

a starting price of around £140,000, perfection should come as standard, but what is truly sensational about this car is the machine itself. It is a triumph of advanced engineering. Weighing in at two and a half tonnes, and bursting with 616bhp from the W12 6-litre twin turbo engine; the Flying Spur can be propelled from 0 - 60 in just 4.3 seconds, topping out at 200mph, making it the fastest, most powerful four-door production car in the world. With that in mind, another of the most impressive new innovations is the acoustic floor and sound proof glazing. The acoustics team at Crewe has added a new level of refinement in noise elimination.

In Bath or in Beijing, the dilemma must be the same, should I sit up front and thrill to the finest driving experience, or should I relax in the back, and let a lucky chauffeur do the job? In the rear cabin Bentley has afforded every luxury for the passenger; the legroom is extensive, all seats have multi touchof-a-button comfort settings with back massage and individual heating and air-conditioning functions. A flick of the switch raises the privacy screens, so any gawpers or the lenses of prying paps are soon dealt with. A clever detachable, touch-screen remote control operates the climate control, info-tainment and comms system and offers a variety of app like functions throughout the car even allowing anyone in the back to view the speedometer or trip computer. It is supremely comfortable and glamorous and one can only imagine, for a passenger, any journey can't be long enough. For me though, I'll play chauffeur.

Having reviewed the Bentley Continental GT Speed earlier this year, the driving seat and dashboard were a familiar pleasure - the organ-stop vent controls still bring a broad smile - so I had no anxieties about introducing this car to all the delights of Bath traffic on a Saturday afternoon. However ➤

In Bath or in Beijing, the dilemma must ❝ be the same, should I sit up front and thrill to the finest driving experience, or should I relax in the back

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the Flying Spur is 5.3m long, wider and lower than the Continental so threading it through the narrower stretches of Northend required careful concentration, but once out and onto the London Road, via a very quick dash along the Batheaston bypass, the bigness was soon mastered. In fact coupled with the weight, the immense reserves of available power - you will probably never need all 200mph worth - means this is an elegant and refined ride at any speed. Around town, it handles like a car half its size, the all-wheel drive means its turning and parking is light, responsive and simple.

Thanks to those acoustic engineers, noise elimination is quite brilliant, as is the lack of vibration, in Milsom Street I was guilty of trying to start it when it was already running. Rookie error. It is completely silent - the cabin fan at its lowest setting making the only audible sound. Conversely for an optional £5,610 extra, the 11-speaker Naim audio system will add a 1,100 watt soundtrack to your drive; and you will never be embarrassed by your musical choices as the outside world will not be troubled. Onlookers were plentiful though as it's quite an event to see one of the first examples of this beautiful car in Bath city centre.

On the motorway, it’s a similar story. The W12 engine remains super quiet at speed, road noise seems well suppressed and the 8 speed automatic gearbox shifts effortlessly. The ride is very stable and holds a perfect straight line, even in heavy crosswinds. I only took the car up to UK motorway speed limits, (honest, officer) but it was obvious that it was running at a fraction of

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its capabilities. The highly developed air-suspension dealt with pretty much everything a bad road can give, and if you fancy a sportier, firmer drive the dampers can be adjusted through ride settings on the drivers touch-screen display. Understandably with a car of this mass and velocity, the braking system needs to be one of the best in its class too, it is. And for the big traveller…the boot is enormous, think isotype for a four-man tent.

Bentley owners will not be too concerned about running costs (what China's 18 million new drivers p.a. might do to petrol futures - experts can only guess) but for the record, the new Flying Spur has improved its average fuel consumption to 19mpg and lowered its emissions significantly to 343g/km CO2.

Rolls-Royce, and perhaps the Mercedes S class, are the only real competitors offering travel in this rarified air, and of those only the Rolls Ghost offers comparable interior space and amenities, although at a far higher price point. Indeed ownership of the 2014 Flying Spur may well offer a perfect employment opportunity for some very fortunate chauffeurs, for the occidental motorist, real privilege is best served when seated at the wheel. Handmade in Crewe, Britain. ■ The Bath Magazine’s test car courtesy of Bentley Cheltenham.

For more information on the Bentley Flying Spur contact: Bentley Cheltenham, Rutherford Way, Cheltenham.

GL51 9TU. Tel: 0333 240 3659. http://www.cheltenham.bentleymotors.com.

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Tax Free Childcare Tax and NI free support for childcare has been around for some time, but a number of new clients that have joined us recently were unaware that their businesses, as employers, were able to provide them with tax and NI free childcare vouchers of up to £55 per week or £243 per month – that’s £2,916 per annum available to you tax free to help with childcare costs! – and this equally applies to small owner managed businesses operating PAYE schemes.

You may have heard this year’s budget announce a new scheme to be phased in from 2015 but employers can continue to take new members – including owner / managers - into the existing arrangement until April 2015.

Whether the new or old scheme will provide you with the best deal will depend on your personal circumstances and can be reviewed closer to the date when the new type scheme is introduced.

For now, you need to be aware just how easy it is to set up and operate a childcare scheme; it is simply a case of getting the right pieces of paper in place, takes very little time and is extremely easy! We’re here and ready to help now, so don’t miss out!

At OCL we have been looking after SMEs for more than twenty years; we would be pleased to meet you to discuss any tax, financial and accounting matters that would help you, including how we can help you save money.

See our website for more – and download our FREE guides

“OCL Accountancy always provide an excellent level of support in an extremely straightforward and user friendly fashion. Advice is sensible and constructive. It is much more of a partnership than a traditional client relationship which is particularly helpful.”

Call Marie Maggs or Mike Wilcox on 01225 445507 to arrange a no-obligation meeting 141 Englishcombe Lane, Bath BA2 2EL

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

www.oclaccountancy.com

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ADV ERT OR I AL FEATURE

DON’T LET YOUR CHRISTMAS CAR JOURNEY BECOME “THE ROAD TO HELL” Christmas should be a time for catching up with our loved ones and enjoying ourselves. Philip Hatvany, road traffic specialist solicitor discusses how for the driver it can all too easily become a nightmare.

Speeding The familiar sight of cars being filled with Christmas presents and stuffed with growing families is once more blessing our roads. As relatives are becoming increasingly dispersed around the country people are having to make longer trips to meet up. This often involves travelling long distances along unfamiliar roads, where speed limits can fluctuate. All too easily one can find one has broken the speed limit without even realising it.

Meanwhile closer to home fixed speed cameras which have been idle in the Bath and Bristol area are under discussion as to whether they should be turned back on. The Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, Nick Gargan, is calling for fixed speed cameras in his force area to be reactivated. This is after the cameras were shut down following budget cuts two years ago. He has also revealed a scheme being explored to fit police motorbikes with speed cameras.

Most times people caught speeding do not even realise this until a ‘Notice of Intended Prosecution’ (a document warning of the possibility of prosecution) arrives through their door. It should be borne in mind that the law states that the Notice of Intended Prosecution must be sent by the police within 14 days of the date of the speeding offence either to the driver or the registered keeper. Failing to comply with this 14 day rule is a concrete defence irrespective of whether the person was speeding or not.

Do I need a solicitor?

If you were not speeding then you will need to consult a solicitor to find out why you have been falsely accused and potentially to go to trial.

If you were speeding and the speed recorded against you is just over the speed limit, then you may be offered the speed awareness course. If your speed is slightly higher then you will receive an offer of a fixed penalty which carries three penalty points. If it is higher still or you already have nine penalty points on your licence, then you will receive a postal requisition asking you to WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

attend court. In such a case if there is a danger that this matter could push your number of penalty points to 12 or more, then instructing a good solicitor is important. Normally people who incur 12 or more points are banned for at least six months, but if “exceptional hardship” can successfully be argued, then it is possible that you may keep your licence despite this.

If the speed recorded against you is very high, then the magistrates may consider forgetting about penalty points and just disqualifying you outright. Again an experienced solicitor would be important in such a case.

Drink driving At Motoring Law Defence Solicitors we do not condone drink driving. However, the majority of our clients who come to us accused of driving whilst over the limit, were not even aware that they were doing so. Often they have simply misjudged the amount of alcohol they have drunk, and incorrectly believed that they were below the limit. Such misjudgements are especially common at Christmas, when the alcohol content of festive treats such as Christmas pudding and sherry trifle can be higher than people might expect. When mixed with other favourites such as chocolate liqueurs and a little festive drink, this can easily be enough to push you over the drink drive limit without you even realising.

Even people who wisely decide they will not drive at all immediately after drinking are not safe. One in five people who are convicted of drink driving are caught the morning after they have been drinking.

The police this Christmas will be carrying out their normal Christmas campaign. Last year 180 people were arrested for drink driving by Avon & Somerset Police during December as a part of Operation Tonic.

Do I need a solicitor?

If found guilty of drink driving the penalties can be severe. The minimum driving ban that

can be imposed is 12 months, and a prison sentence can even be ordered of up to six months. However, the police have to follow very strict procedures at the police station, and if they fail to do this, then this will often amount to a defence.

Even if it transpires that you do not have a defence, the magistrates will want to hear your mitigation and good representation is therefore vital.

At Motoring Law Defence we specialise in representing clients in relation to all motoring matters at court and at the police station. We are especially skilled at saving peoples licences. If you would like to talk to one of our solicitors about a motoring matter please telephone 01225 442925 for free initial advice.

Philip Hatvany, Road Traffic Solicitor at Motoring Law Defence

3 Queen Square Bath, BA1 2HG T: 01225 442925 www.motoringlawdefence.com Motoring Law Defence is a division of Mowbray Woodwards Solicitors DECEMBER 2013

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FAMILYfun

Moominland at the egg theatre

A fairy house in Long Wood

Bath on Ice

Christmas playtime Once you’ve made the mince pies, decorated the tree and wrapped the presents there’s still lots of fun to be had with the children in and around Bath this month Bath Museums Christmas events Roman Baths Saturday 28 December, 11am to 3pm Take part in a holiday craft activity to celebrate the new year and find out about the Roman god Janus. Free to Discovery Card holders.

Victoria Art Gallery Sunday 1 December to Sunday 5 January Explore the gallery to find hidden decorations.

Victoria Art Gallery Saturday 21 December, 2pm to 3.30pm Make wise men and Rudolph reindeer. For five to 11s. Book, tel: 01225 477233, £4 per child.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Fashion Museum Sunday 15 December, noon - 3pm Join in this craft activity for the holiday season and make special fashionable decorations.

Hemisphere sky in real time through state of the art computer telometry because Charles Draper of the BRLSI has been abe to negotiate time on the Faulks Telescope.

Suitable for audiences aged six and over, this promises to be a magical, enchanting show featuring Moomintroll, Moominmamma and the Snork Maiden.

Bath on Ice family skating

Making Light of It

Royal Pavilion, Royal Victoria Park, Bath Until 5 January, open daily Bath’s open air ice rink opens for its second season, providing an exciting playground for skaters of all ages. Little ones can use one of the push-along penguins for support, while older children will enjoy swooping across the ice.

Parents and grandparents can enjoy a hot drink and some food from one of the stalls in Christmas Avenue. From £7 for an hour, to include skate hire. To book visit: www.bathonice.com or tel: 07583 258 688.

The Herschel Museum of Astronomy, New King Street, Bath. Visit: www.herschelmuseum.org.uk Tel: 01225 446865 Until 16 December Find out about the art and science of light in the 18th century. The exhibition looks at William Herschel’s work on the sun, infra red and telescopes.

Stick Man trails at Westonbirt

Fairy Christmas

The Holburne winter light display

Long Wood, Bath Skyline, National Trust Saturday 7 – Sunday 8 December, 10am – 4pm Visit the woods on the Bath Skyline for a magical fairy Christmas. Bring the whole family and head out to explore the fairy trail and discover the hidden world of the fairy and elves living in Long Wood.

Christmas crafts, trail maps and refreshments will be available next to the Shepherd’s Hut, just to the east of the Bath Clinic. Parking at the Sulis Club, Claverton Down Road, Bath. Free.

Tel: 01225 833977, visit: www. nationaltrust.org.uk/bathskyline.

The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney St, Bath Wednesday 4 December – Sunday 5 January Lighting designer, Patrick Woodroffe, who designed the lighting for the opening of the Olympics will be creating a magical light display in the museum grounds, set to music.

Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire Sunday 1 December – 31 January Let your children’s imaginations roam by following the Stick Man trail and using the forest as their playground. The trail, inspired by the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler character, is designed to help children find out more about the importance of wood and trees to their daily lives. Admission prices apply.

Alice in Wonderland

The Blue Bird by Maeterlinck

The Pound Arts Centre, Corsham Thursday 5 – Friday 6 December, 6.30pm Using a mixture of music, physical theatre, circus and puppetry, Proteus Theatre Company creates an anarchic, magical and mad-as-a-hatter version of Lewis Carroll’s classic tales Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through The Looking Glass. £8 (£7 concessions), £25 family Thursday’s performance will be sign-interpreted.

The Rondo Theatre, St Saviour’s Road, Larkhall Box office tel: 01225 463362 www.bathboxoffice.co.uk Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm plus matinees at 2.30pm on Saturday 14, Sunday 15 and Saturday 21 December It’s Christmas, but in little boy Tyltyl’s family, times are hard. There are no presents under the tree and Tyltyl’s tummy is rumbling. As he wraps himself in his blanket grumbling and wishing for more, a cantankerous Fairy appears and Tyltyl’s adventures begin. Butterfly Psyche Theatre presents a new adaptation of Maurice Maeterlinck’s Nobel Prize winning play from 1908. This fairy tale tells the story of child’s Christmas search for The Bluebird of Happiness.

Tickets: £12/£10. ■

Hands-on science: Comet Ison Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution, Queen Square, Bath. £6 a session. To book, email: coolbookings@brlsi.org Saturday 14 December, 1pm– 4pm Millions of miles away from the earth, Comet Ison has been hurtling towards the centre of our solar system at 50,000 miles per hour for the last few months. We hope to be able to see it at the beginning of December. There will also be a chance to view the sky at night in the Southern 82 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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Moominland Midwinter The egg at the Theatre Royal, Bath Tel: 01225 823409 Friday 6 December – Sunday 12 January This will be first time in the UK for a stage adaptation of Tove Jansson’s Moominland Midwinter by acclaimed writer Hattie Naylor.

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Turning lives around Bath-based charity Mentoring Plus brings adults with life experience together with young people in need of a sympathetic ear and esteem-building, with some impressive results. Georgette McCready met the charity’s dynamic director Jamie Luck

W

hen we look back at our teenage selves, how many of us see a slightly awkward, anxious young person, often at odds with the world and authority, with absolutely no idea of what sort of adults they’d turn into, or indeed whether they really wanted to grow up at all?

Anyone who watched the excellent TV series Educating Yorkshire will have been reminded about the troubled route that many youngsters take to adulthood. The pressures build up, from school, home and peer groups and the result can be an increasing feeling of isolation, which in turn can lead to rebellion, self-destructive behaviour and even crime.

Fortunately for the young people of Bath and North East Somerset there is Mentoring Plus, a volunteer scheme which pairs mature adults with young people to offer support and a sympathetic ear at what can be a difficult time in their lives.

Jamie Luck is the dynamic director of the charity, who joined it this year. A Bathonian by birth who attended Culverhay School, he knows the city well.

He recalls his own young years: “As a teenager I had what I call itchy blood. I did OK at school but I did have times when I thought, ‘what is the point of me trying to learn all this?’

finding out about their interest in street art, skateboarding or hip-hop. The pairs can also work together at the charity’s Newbridge base where gardening, cooking and fixing things like bicycles are all taught.

Jamie offers up one example of how mentoring has made a difference. He was introduced to 14-year-old Dan Martin, whose school pastoral officer had spotted that he wasn’t achieving his potential at school. Too much of his time and talent was being wasted on stunts like performing card tricks under the desks during lessons, rather than learning.

Dan joined Jamie’s Young Company at the egg where he charmed his way into a breakdancing class for girls and took to the floor with such a natural flair that the teacher spotted his talent.

From then something clicked in the youngster and he became a disciplined, focused peformer.

He took part in The Storm on the Lawn drama production at Prior Park, where an audience of several hundred gathered to watch a youth production. There was a moment, Jamie recalls, when Dan turned to him before the show and admitted he was stricken by stagefright and a worry that he couldn’t perform. Jamie spoke a few words of positive encouragement, calmed his nerves and made him believe in himself.

Dan went on stage without a qualm and held that ❝ audience in the palm of his hand with a ten minute impromptu performance ❞ And then I joined what was then Bodlets drama group, where I found something I enjoyed doing, which gave me confidence and which inspired me. I would say that Scott Rogers, who is still part of Zenith youth theatre, was an inspirational mentor to me.”

From there Jamie went into a career in the theatre, working with the Theatre Royal and the egg theatre in Bath, before moving to the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford, but always concentrating on working with young people, and particularly those who were vulnerable or isolated. He is now devoting himself to bringing young people – including those at risk from being excluded from school or running into trouble with the law.

“I believe that young people can be helped with compassion and support,” he said, “We offer them the choice to take up a year’s mentoring. It’s their decision to take it or not.

And our volunteers, who may not necessarily have worked with young people before, offer an evening a week to spend with their mentee.”

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“What was incredible is that the following night, when there was a power cut, Dan went on stage without a qualm and held that audience in the palm of his hand with a ten minute impromptu performance. He brought the house down and that was a light bulb moment.” There was no stopping Dan – he’s now at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance.

Not every young person who takes advantage of Mentoring Plus is going to be another Billy Elliot. But they might find themselves able to lead a happy, balanced life, holding down a job, a relationship and managing with the everyday business of cooking, cleaning and budgeting.

The charity, which needs £180,000 a year to run, helps around 40 young people each year.

Some of that number would have possibly gone on to cost the State dear if they had continued to head off the rails to a life of crime.

“I want to emphasise that the young people who come to us come from all different backgrounds,” said Jamie. “Their familes are often desperate to know how to help them, but are not equiped to do so. Some of them live in isolated rural homes where they don’t get the advantages that we have in towns and cities. It’s

also a sobering thought that, although Bath is a culturally rich city, a good many of those activities are closed to a lot of young people, through social and economic doors not being open to them.

“Mentoring someone only takes a few hours a week but it can make a difference and it’s incredibly rewarding. We have mentors who come back and help more young people year after year.”

The charity is expanding. If you would like to know how you can make a difference – either by volunteering or by fundraising (the charity has bonded places for people running in the 2014 Bath Half marathon) – visit: www.mentoringplus.net, email: info@mentoringplus.net, or call the charity at its Newbridge headquarters: 01225 429694. ■

Mentoring Plus: fact file

Mentoring Plus is funded by Bath & North East Somerset Council, by grants, local businesses and schools and from fundraising from individuals. ● In the last 12 months the charity has worked with 59 local young people, aged between 12 and 17. The mentors who worked with them are aged between 18 and over 65 and come from a variety of backgrounds. ● The majority of the young people (41%) who were helped between 2012 and 2013 came from the south west of Bath, from Odd Down, Whiteway, Twerton and Southdown, others came from Keynsham and Chew Valley (27%), Peasedown St John, Radstock and Midsomer Norton (17%) and 15% from the rest of Bath. ● One young man who was helped by having a mentor, said: “I liked the idea of having someone to talk to who doesn’t pre-judge, and sits and listens and gives advice. . . it’s giving me confidence and the ability to try new things.”

■ TEAMING UP: main picture, former Bath schoolboy Dan Martin discovered a talent for dance after Jamie Luck, right, became his mentor PHOTO: Nick Spratling www.the officialphotographer.co.uk

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All grist to the mill Andrew Swift’s walk for the Christmas holiday can be enjoyed in two parts, either as a pleasant stroll, or as a more challenging trek rewarded with the sight of a dramatic landscape which inspired artists and writers

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our Christmas family walk packs a great deal into a very short distance, visiting a valley once celebrated for its picturesque beauty, but now littered with reminders of its industrial past. The first part of the walk, which is level, is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs and would make a pleasant ‘there and back’ stroll; the rest of it, which involves a steep and rocky climb, is more challenging. There are also high cliffs and a fastflowing river, so children and dogs should be kept under control.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, one of the most popular excursions from Bath was to Wick Rocks, six miles north of the city. This sylvan glen, with 200-foot high cliffs, was a magnet for artists such as Gainsborough and Thomas Barker and was featured by Jane Austen in Northanger Abbey.

Richard Warner’s New Guide through Bath and its Environs, published in 1811, declared it ‘remarkable for its picturesque beauty ... and a rich feast for the admirer of romantic natural scenery.’ He added, however, that, ‘of late years the glen has lost much of its picturesque interest, by the introduction of several manufactories within its quiet sequestered windings, the din and bustle of which by no means harmonise with the features around.’

A small ironworks had been established in the valley as early as 1761 to take advantage of the fast-flowing River Boyd, and by 1811 it had been joined by a rolling mill, a paper mill, a cotton mill and two grist mills. It was the discovery of deposits of yellow ochre while mining for iron ore that led to the large-scale industrialisation of the valley, however. The Golden Valley Ochre and Oxide Works was established in the 1890s and proved so successful that within a few years around 400 people were working there.

After it closed in 1971 the buildings were demolished and a nature reserve was created in the valley. Forty years on, it is possible not only to recapture some of the 18th century allure of this picturesque valley, but also to see the remnants of an industrial past now crumbling into the undergrowth.

To get to Wick Rocks, drive up Lansdown Road and carry on for six miles. When you reach the A420, turn left for 650 metres and, just past the Rose and Crown, turn left into Wick village hall car park (ST703727). Walk on along the A420 for 150 metres before crossing and turning right along Golden Valley Road. Carry straight on alongside the River Boyd into the Golden Valley Nature Reserve, passing spoil heaps from the ochre works on the right.

Just after passing a post marked Bat Trail 2, look up to the right to see a face carved into the trunk of a dead tree. After crossing a bridge over the river, turn right along the Red Ochre Trail. Almost all the land on this side 86 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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of the river was once covered by the ochre works, the remains of which can be glimpsed up to your left.

After 300 metres, the level path ends at an impressive spill weir (ST708731). From here, steps lead to a viewing platform, before continuing up to a walkway to another viewing platform. From here, you have your first glimpse of the quarries beyond.

After heading back across the walkway, bear right up a steep, rough and narrow path, bearing right when it forks. After it levels out, you come to a ruinous lookout point with a panoramic view of the flooded quarry below.

Carry on as the path weaves through woodland. When you come to a kissing gate (KG), don’t go through it but bear right down a slippery path to Wick Rocks with the familiar caterpillar of trees on Freezing Hill beyond.

Here there is an even more spectacular viewpoint, with the screech of buzzards heightening its wild beauty (ST708732).

Continue along the path beside the fence. When it forks, bear left and carry on into a small quarry where you will see a curious triangular structure with a small arch. Although it has been suggested that this is a folly, old maps show a limekiln on this spot, and it seems more likely that the arch is what remains of it.

this sylvan glen, with 200-foot high cliffs ❝ was a magnet for artists such as Gainsborough and Thomas Barker and was featured by Jane Austen in Northanger Abbey

❞

Carry on through a KG in an archway, beyond which you will see another large flooded quarry. After a few metres, bear left and, at a broad path, turn left alongside a wall. After going through a KG – beyond which is a hollow ash tree – follow a waymark diagonally across the field. You will notice that the ivy-topped wall over to the right has small recesses at regular intervals, suggesting that there was once some kind of structure built against it.

Much of the ochre for the ochre works was extracted in this area. As you carry on across the field, you will see how it has been scooped into terraces, almost certainly the legacy of digging for ochre. Go through a wide gap in the far corner of field, and head for a small building with a corrugated iron roof (ST707732). This was a winding house, to which the ochre was

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OUT&ABOUT

ROMANTIC LANDSCAPE: main picture, the spill weir on the River Boyd, and above, Wick Rocks

conveyed by a narrow-gauge tramway before being winched down an incline to the works below.

Follow the fence downhill past the winding house – diverting to the right to avoid the last slippery stretch – and go through a KG. Turn left down a broad track. At a T junction, turn right and carry straight on downhill, before carrying on across the bridge and retracing your steps along the valley.

Wick has two pubs serving food: the Carpenters Arms and the Rose and Crown Access: The first three-quarters of a mile is fully accessible; the rest of the walk includes a steep climb and rough, slippery paths. ■

WWW.THEBATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

FURTHER INFORMATION ■ ■ ■ ■

Length of walk: 2½miles Map: OS Explorer 155 Approximate time: 1 – 2 hours Public transport: the No 620 leaves Bath bus station for Wick at 10.45am and 2pm (Mon to Fri), 10.45am and 13.45pm (Sat), returning 5.55pm and 6.14pm (Mon to Fri) and 3.17pm and 5.32pm (Sat).

No Sunday service

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Osborne’s Christmas Trees On the Fosseway sn14 8ah Open the 30th November & 1st December 10am til Dark then daily from the 7th December

Fresh from the Forest • Traditional tree • Potted • Large trees • Nordman Fir • Fraser Fir • Wreaths • Mistletoe and holly • Logs in bags • FREE REINDEER DUST

Illunimated Father Christmas www.o-christmas.co.uk West of Colerne Airfield Tel: 07870 466179

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Acupuncture for Fertility, support alongside IVF, Pregnancy and Womens Health.

Holly Woodward (MBAcC, Reg Nurse) is an experienced fertility acupuncturist, having worked for leading fertility expert Zita West.

Call Holly on 07759 684552 Address: The Practice Rooms, 26 Upper Borough Walls.

Situated above ‘Lush’.

E: holly.woodward@yahoo.co.uk W: www.hollywoodward.co.uk

THEBATHMAGAZINE THEBESTOFBATH PERFECTLYCOVERED BATHSBIGGESTMAGAZINE PERFECTLYDELIVERED TOADVERTISETEL: 01225 424499

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Inspiring and empowering people through creativity to explore, develop and grow Would you or a friend benefit from...?

Creative activities for those living with mental health challenges Creative support and development for Artists Creative commissions

Creative fun for everyone from pure artistic creation to thought provoking activities

Get in touch today to find out more or support our work

Call 01761438857 email info@creativityworks.org.uk Or visit www.creativityworks.org.uk

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ON THE WEBSITE THIS MONTH THE BATH MASSAGE COMPANY

BRETT HARDY LANDSCAPES An award-winning garden design and landscaping company creating expertly crafted and beautiful gardens in Bath and the surrounding area Tel: 07967 078058 or 01225 789990 Website: www.bretthardylandscapes.co.uk

HANDS ON HEALTH Hands on Health is a unique skincare and therapy centre promoting the benefits of a healthier you. Its ethos is to enable clients to put the outside world on hold, relax in beautifully designed interiors and experience the restorative properties of heat, water and therapeutic touch. Whatever your needs the Hands on Health team will endeavour to deliver a personalised and professional service, carried out with great care and empathy. Open 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday, with evening and Saturday appointments by prior booking.

Tel: 01225 462462 Website: www.handsonhealthbath.co.uk

Offering professional and experienced massage treatments in Bath from two centrally located venues, The Bath Practice and Seasons Natural Health Store. A variety of therapeutic services include deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, specialist pregnancy massage treatments (including first trimester work through to post pregnancy phase), and monthly baby massage courses which run for 6 weeks and include a partners session.

Tel: 07790 007263 Website: www.thebathmassagecompany.com

LISA BARNES HEALTH

Weight loss – working with techniques which produce results before you look at diet and exercise.

EFT, known as Energy Psychology, works with the body’s energy system to access and release traumatic and distressing memories from the past, allowing new thoughts and beliefs to take place.

TOTALLY RAD

BUBBLE CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Homeopathy is a holistic medicine with the aim of triggering the body’s own healing mechanisms. It aims to get to the root of the problem and restore a healthy balance.

We carry out commissioned projects for domestic and commercial requirements.

Our nursery range offers fun, colourful and educational themed safety covers for nurseries and day care centres. Our covers have easily removable front panels for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Bubble Christmas Parties is the premier Christmas party provider across the south west, specialising in gourmet dining, spectacular decor, and superb entertainment.

Join the Fantasy Christmas party at Bath Racecourse which runs until 21 December.

Tel: 01225 830855 or 07946 515 999 Website: www.lisabarneshealth.co.uk

Tel: 07402 667702 Website: www.totally-rad.co.uk

Tel: 0845 2220517 Website: www.bubblechristmasparties.co.uk

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Create some Sparkle this Christmas With pampering presents for all the girls on your list.

Gift vouchers available from

THE ORANGERY laser and beauty clinic

the orangery l a s e r

&

b e a u t y

c l i n i c

No.2 Kingsmead St. Bath.

Tel: 01225 466851 www.theorangerylaserandbeautybath.co.uk

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Salon adopts the spa philosphy of chill

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here’s a quiet revolution going on in hair salons, stylists tune themselves into the busy, bustling nature of our lives and begin to create quiet, calming havens for their clientele.

Does the following scenario ring any bells?

You’re worrrying about some Christmas shopping you haven’t yet done, while stuffing coins into a car park machine, trying to answer a text, and simultaneously trying to dash to your next appointment without being late?

The last thing you’re going to want at that stage is a hair salon with music banging out, bright lights and an atmosphere of frenetic energy. And those nice people at Artizan in George Street understand this, having banished the pop music and are in the middle of transforming this popular salon into somewhere you can retreat to and emerge, not only with a head-turning new hair style, but an air of calm and relaxation.

Artizan only uses Aveda products, which prides itself on only using natural products.

Everything, from the shampoo and colour through to styling, is all Aveda. I experienced the holistic Aveda experience on a recent visit to the George Street salon.

After talking through, as is traditional, what I would like stylist Liam to achieve with my hair, I was then treated to one of the Aveda Sensory Rituals, which are now standard if you book an appointment at Artizan. Using soothing lavender scented oils Liam gently massaged my neck,

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shoulders and head. Just these few moments is enough to take stock and chill. If you’re having a colour treatment the Ritual is a hand massage.

Both Rituals are included in the price of your hair cut or colour.

Mia washed my hair, again using Aveda products, including an intensive moisturising treatment for my poor, winter-ravaged hair.

After a good, stylish cut, in which Liam managed to create an elegant swish in my usually unruly mop, he applied the wonderfully effective Be Curly, which helps define curly hair while beating frizz. He also used some volumising tonic and liquid gel, followed by some Aveda hair

spray. All the products smell delightful and are reassuringly made from natural ingredients.

Artizan stock a full range of Aveda goodies, so whether you’re buying for someone else or selfgifting, you’ll pay the same price as at any Aveda counter.

With the ambient music, gentle lighting and muted colours, along with the staff’s general air of quiet, friendly professionalism, I left for my next appointment feeling thoroughly unwound and pampered.

Find out for yourself what’s going on in George Street by calling in, or give them a call on tel: 01225 447087.

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Life can be difficult and its challenges can be overwhelming

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aking the step to seek help can be challenging too, but we know that counselling and psychotherapy works.

With over 150 counsellors and psychotherapists in the South West, our aim is to make it easy for you to find the right person to help you.We offer long or short term therapy and a sliding scale of affordable fees.

Please visit our website, or call to talk to someone in confidence:

Tel: 07907 771612 Email: referralservice@bcpc.org.uk Website: www.psychotherapy-counselling-service.org.uk All our practitioners are trained by BCPC, registered with or working towards registration with UKCP or BACP and adhere to the relevant code of ethics

Viv Kenchington Solution Focused Hypnotherapist & Reflexologist

HPD, DHP, MNCH (Reg), AfSFH, DipReflex, MIFR

Depression,Anxiety, Stress, Phobias,Anger,Weight or Performance issues?

Help change happen fast with effective professional treatments in Bath and Wiltshire

Free initial consultation & parking available

Contact: 07974 153487 email: info@hypnotherapyandhealth.co.uk website: www.hypnotherapyandhealth.co.uk

THEBATHMAGAZINE THEBESTOFBATH PERFECTLYCOVERED BATHSBIGGESTMAGAZINE PERFECTLYDELIVERED TOADVERTISETEL: 01225 424499 WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

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Making faces Learn how to apply make-up like a professional at one of Little Lab’s exclusive workshops

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t’s not taught in school but the art – or should that be science? – of applying make-up is something that most women wish they could improve on. Who wouldn’t want to look as good as a model or film star when leaving the house? And even those women who do know how to make the best of their facial features enjoy picking up tips on techniques, such as how to create the classic femme fatale smoky eye, or how to get that perfect cat’s eye liner.

Fortunately for the women of Bath professional make-up artist Katherine Spreadbury is sharing some insider secrets at her new pop-up shop, Little Lab, in Milsom Place, where she runs a series of make-up workshops. Katherine can take bookings for one-to-one sessions or for parties of up to six women.

In a two hour workshop groups of friends have fun

applying make-up from Little Lab’s impressive range of products. Katherine hs secured the rights to sell MUD, a range used by professional make-up artists from Los Angeles – she is the only British stockist. There is a tempting array of MUD’s colourful palette laid out in the store.

Little Lab’s products would make excellent Christmas presents, ranging from really good quality brushes for cheeks, lips and brows, to make-up bags, cleansers, lipstick and nail polish. Most exciting product of all is the Airpod system which applies foundation using airbrush technique, which allows the artist to create a flawless, natural looking complexion.

In addition to the make-up workshops, customers can book a Saturday special mini session dedicated to learning how to apply fake eyelashes or to creating party smoky eyes. There are also manicures and a fake tan service.

Little Lab’s team also prides itself on being a unisex make-up and skincare shop, so guys, you’re very welcome too.

Workshops are from £8 for false eyelash lessons to £45 per person for a two-hour group session.

Little Lab is at Milsom Place until the end of January. To book a session email: info@littlelab.co.uk or call: 0776 332 8352. ■

SHIATSU and Therapeutic Full Body Massage

for well-being and balance CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE ...Give the Gift of Relaxation – better than a toaster!

Contact Piu Bose on 07946 521766 for more details or information on the therapies available

“Don’t think I’ve EVER felt this relaxed” - Meg from Weston Village

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The Party Season

Party Package £65

• Lash Tint • Artistic Gloss Manicure • Spray Tan Offer available to end of Dec 2013

£10 OFF

on all treatments over £40 (Monday-Wednesday Jan - March 2014)

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

day spa for men and women 14 green street, bath BA1 2JZ tel: 01225 426000 www.greenstreethouse.com Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion

Drop by to see our fantastic range of gift and luxury accessories.

Lovely candles, slippers, scarves and much more. Gift vouchers available

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CHRISTMASlights

IN THE NIGHT GARDEN Gardening writer Jane Moore turns her attention to a very different type of bulb as she gets festive with a trip through some magical outdoor light shows

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here is little point in writing about anything seriously gardening in December because frankly none of us have our minds on the job. This month, even for professionals like Anna and me, is totally subsumed by all things Christmas.

There is simply no escaping it. At the hotel all is decidedly festive and for us outside it’s all Christmas trees, holly and ivy and, of course, outdoor lights that fill our days.

Now I fear many of you may be preparing to turn the page in horror at such frequent and casual repetition of the C word, convinced that I will spend the rest of the page waxing lyrical in a somewhat syrupy fashion about you-know-what. But hold on and read on. Shelve your inner ‘Bah humbug’ and embrace the magic of the season as I aim to give you a round-up of the best outdoor light shows on offer in this countdown to Christmas.

Kew Gardens: The Illuminated Trail

For a seasoned gardener all paths lead to Kew and that horticultural nirvana is only a quick blip up the motorway, after all. This spectacular trail has been crafted by a specialist outdoor event company called Culture Creative and features a trail though the heart of Kew Gardens where you will encounter light, sound, performance and interactive installations to delight and amaze the whole family. Although the details are a closely guarded secret, the trail will take in the Palm House at night, some curious botanists and beautifully lit specimen trees.

Prices and times: adult: £12.50, children (5yrs -16yrs): £8, children under 5 go free. Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children, 5yrs -16yrs) £38. Thursday 28 November – Sunday 1 December, Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 December, Thursday 12 – Sunday 15 December, Thursday 19 – Monday 23 December 2013 and Thursday 26 December – Saturday 4 January.

The illuminated trail opens at 4.30pm and closes at 10pm.

Visits are timed at 30 minute intervals from 4.45pm. The full trail takes approximately 75 minutes.

Westonbirt Arboretum: The Enchanted Christmas

Locals may have visited Westonbirt’s winter spectacular before but each year the route changes, taking in different specimens, paths and vistas in this vast tree collection. Even if you know 96 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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our National Arboretum like the back of your hand, it’s amazing how different it all looks lit up like, well, a Christmas tree.

Prices and times: Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, Friday 29 November – 22 December, 5pm to 8.30pm (last admission to the trail at 7.15pm). Adults £10, concessions £8, children £5. Book in advance online or call: 03000 680 400.

Hestercombe Gardens: Winter Wonderland

These beautiful Lutyens and Jekyll gardens lend themselves to inspired illuminations and the organisers promise a magically lit pathway of sparkling lights and festive decorations. Trees will be lit up against the night sky and Father Christmas will be in his garden grotto, then you can warm up with skating and hot drinks from the café afterwards. Prices and times: every weekend in December and every day in the week leading up to Christmas and after Christmas until Sunday 5 January, 4.30pm to 7pm.

Adults £4.50, children under 16 £2.75, members free.

The Holburne Museum: Light to Light

The winter light shows at the new-look Holburne are becoming something of a Bath staple – if anything this spectacular can ever be called a staple. Following on from last year’s Labyrinth, Light to Light has been designed specifically for the Holburne by lighting designer and artist Patrick Woodroffe. The museum garden will host a spectacular display of LED lights of varying brightness and colour to create a rich and layered bed of light that ripples and dances to a sound track compiled and created

by English composer Matt Clifford.

Over the last 40 years Patrick Woodroffe has produced lighting designs for an extraordinary collection of people including Abba, Lady Gaga, Take That, The Rolling Stones, The Three Tenors, and the London Symphony Orchestra as well as special events including the opening and closing ceremonies of the London Olympic and Paralympic Games. He has also created many important architectural lighting schemes, including the gardens at Highgrove House and many galleries worldwide.

Patrick’s stage this winter is the Holburne Museum’s garden.

Put on your ‘silent’ headphones and immerse yourself in a performance of colour, light and sound.

Prices and times: Wednesday 4 December – Sunday 5 January,

LIGHT FANTASTIC: main picture, look at trees in a new light Opposite page, left and right, Westonbirt’s Enchanted Christmas trail, and centre, Bruce Munro’s previous installation at the Holburne in Bath was a roaring success – this year Patrick Woodroffe is the designer Westonbirt pictures

by Paul Groom

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CHRISTMASlights

4-6pm (Sunday - Thursday), 4-7pm (Friday and Saturday) closed 24 to 26 December and on New Year’s Day. Free (charge for hire of headphones).

Also at the Holburne…

Light Art with Patrick Woodroffe, Bruce Munro and Martin Richman.

The museum plays host to three leading light artists/designers who will debate and explore light art and its uses in public art to coincide with the launch of the Holburne's third winter light installation. Tuesday 3 December, 7.30pm, Ticket £10/£8. To book tel 01225 388569.

Waddeston Manor: Winter Light

The National Trust’s Waddesdon Manor near Aylesbury might be a bit of a drive but not only is the garden well worth it in its own right but it is also home to an exciting light sculpture exhibition this winter. Bath folk may already be familiar with Bruce Munro’s work at the Holburne Museum in Bath in 2011, where he created Field of Light, an enchanting outdoor

WWW.THEBATHMAG.CO.UK

installation which inspired the invitation to work with the Trust at Waddesdon.

Since then Bruce Munro has created Blue Moon on a Platter and Angel of Light and his four year residency at Waddesdon continues with an exhibition of six large scale light-based installations situated around the gardens. The darker winter evenings showcase these light works to perfection and the house and gardens are open after hours for special late night evening openings every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 29 November to 29 December.

Prices and times: Friday 29 November to 29 December, 3pm to 8pm, £8 Adult, £4 child, NT member free. The trail will take on average approximately 30 minutes. ■ Jane Moore is the head gardener at the award-winning gardens of the Bath Priory Hotel. Follow her on Twitter @janethegardener.

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the directory

to advertise in this section call 01225 424 499

Baby Equipment

Gardening

House & Home

RHS Silver Medal winner 2012

Baby Equipment Hire in and around Bath www.babyquip-bath.co.uk 07528 074960

• Award winning Garden Design • • All aspects of Garden Construction • • Driveway specialist • • Expert planting • • Garden maintenance • • Attention to detail • Reliability of service • • Highly experienced •

Mob: 07967 078 058 Tel: 01225 789990

Electricians

House & Home Health, Beauty & Wellbeing

Tuition Bath Language Academy

GCSE German Private Tuition Individually tailored private tuition Unique ‘fast progress’ teaching method 45 min free of charge initial assessment session

100% pass rate 95% A and A* tel. 07500164744 bath.language.academy@outlook.com www.bathlanguageacademy.com Excellence • Exclusivity • Experience • Expertise

ONEMAGAZINEONECITYONEMONTH House & Home

Specialist Vehicle Services

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PROPERTYin FOCUS

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or many years this house was owned by HRH Princes Charles and was the headquarters of the Duchy of Cornwall Estate’s Eastern District offices. The current owners purchased the property in 1999 and have carefully returned it to a private residence. The accommodation is over five floors and briefly comprises: lower ground floor: beautiful kitchen with range, dining room, cloakroom, vaults converted as office/hobbies space.

Ground floor: reception, study, laundry room. First floor: entrance hall, drawing room with connecting doors into a withdrawing room, bathroom. Second floor: two bedrooms, bathroom. Third floor: three further bedrooms and a shower room. There is a delightful walled garden with access to the rear of the property and a single garage is available to rent or purchase by separate negotiation. This is a fine pedigree property which has been meticulously cared for and is for sale with agents Pritchards.

THE DUCHY EDWARD STREET • Royal pedigree property • Grade II listed • Immaculate décor • Five/six bedrooms • Courtyard garden

Guide price: £1.55 million

Pritchards, 11 Quiet Street, Bath. Tel: 01225 466225

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THINKINGproperty

Buy with just a 5% deposit...

Estate agent Peter Greatorex looks at the Government backed ‘Help to Buy’ schemes and options for first time buyers

I

t hasn’t been easy, in fact it has been virtually impossible for first time buyers to get onto the housing ladder – and equally it has been difficult for families, couples and individuals wanting or needing to up-size and/or relocate in recent times. However, in an attempt to kick this trend the Government has come to the rescue and revealed a couple of ‘Help to Buy’ schemes to encourage banks and building societies to lend to a wider audience and inject further confidence in the UK property market. There are two different schemes, namely ‘Shared Equity Loan’ or a ‘Mortgage Guarantee’, see a brief summary below:

Peter Greatorex

Shared Equity Loan: • Launched on 1st April 2013 for an initial period of 3 years • Available for the purchase of newly built homes only to both first time buyers and home movers up to a maximum property value of £600,000 • Buyer to provide at least 5% deposit • Government to loan a further 20% (on an interest only basis for the first 5 years and an extremely competitive rate thereafter) and so opening up access to more attractive interest rates from participating lenders • Subject to affordability • Can be repaid at any time in minimum portions of 25% - or can be re-paid on selling the property with 20% of the value of the property being paid to the Government • EXCLUDES – buy to let and second homes

Every month The Bath Magazine brings you a selection of properties from Bath's most commercially active estate agents. These agents advertise with us as part of their broad selection of print and online media to ensure your property is marketed to the highest standards and greatest audience.

If you are thinking of selling your property in 2014, then consider using one of our featured estate agencies to give you the best possible service.

Justify your choice of estate agent and get the exposure you’ve been promised...

Mortgage Guarantee: • Originally scheduled for a January 2014 launch but was brought forward and launched 8th October 2013 due to the rapid house price rise • Available for the purchase of newly built homes and older properties to both first time buyers and home movers up to a maximum property value of £600,000 • Buyer to provide at least 5% deposit • Guarantee given to mortgage lender by the Government for up to 20% of the loan - you may not even be aware that your product falls under this scheme but it will open access to better rates offered by participating lenders • Subject to affordability • This version is currently only available in England although Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own separate schemes • EXCLUDES – buy to let and second homes If you would any more information on either of these schemes or would like to know how they could affect the sale of your apartment, call Peter Greatorex at The Apartment Company on 01225 471144.

Bath’s biggest monthly magazine is also online at www.thebathmag.co.uk 102 THEBATHMAGAZINE

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pritchard-partners.co.uk

Midford Road

Price: ÂŁ699,500

An impressive & recently extended semi det. house enjoying wonderful views on the desirable southern outskirts of the city set in attractive gardens.

Int area: 2039 sq ft/189.4 sq m.

Principal bedroom with superb en suite, 4 further double bedrooms, bathroom & additional en suite shower room, sitting room with attractive working stone fireplace, stunning handmade kitchen/dining/garden room, family room, study, utility & cloakroom. Garage. Ample driveway parking.

Scan to access our Website Homepage

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pritchard-partners.co.uk

Claverton Down

Price: ÂŁ599,000

An attractive semi. det period house, in same family since 1927 with a delightful 100’ south west facing garden close to Bath University.

The substantial accomm is now in need of some updating but offering a great deal of potential (subject to the nec consents).

5 bedrooms, bathroom & 2 cloakrooms, sitting room, dining room, living room, kitchen/breakfast room. Extensive cellarage. Wonderful level walled garden (SW). Detached garage & residents parking permits avail. Int area hs 2229 sq ft/207 sq m.

11 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2LB

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Charlcombe Lane, Lansdown A charming and spacious four bedroom detached former farmhouse, tastefully combining contemporary comforts with period charm. Located in a highly sought-after area on the northern outskirts of Bath, the property benefits from breath-taking rural views and tranquillity, yet still enjoys very convenient access to Bath city centre and a host of excellent schools.

Rent: ÂŁ2,500 pcm fully fitted country style kitchen | spacious living room | 2 further reception rooms | wooden flooring | feature fireplaces | utility room | four good sized double bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | study | picturesque private garden | rural views | off street parking for 2 vehicles Reside Bath | 24 Barton Street Bath BA1 1HG | T 01225 445 777 | E info@residebath.co.uk | W www.residebath.co.uk

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Fidelis

Residential Sales & Lettings

Bloomfield Road A Very Pretty 3 Bedroom Cottage Brimming with Character Features and Charm

SOLD IN NOVEMBER

Midford Road A Brilliant 4 Bedroom Family Home Convenient for Local Schools within 2.5 miles of the City Centre

SOLD IN NOVEMBER Fidelis Estate Agents 134 Wells Road, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 3AH

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01225 421000 wwww.fidelisproperties.co.uk

Milton Avenue A Lovely 2 Bedroom Garden Flat Rarely Available in Poets Corner

SOLD IN NOVEMBER

Midford Attractive Grade II Listed Double Fronted Period Property With Four Double Bedrooms and Countryside Views

SOLD IN NOVEMBER Email: info@fidelisproperties.co.uk

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Fidelis

SOLD

Residential Sales & Lettings

01225 421000 wwww.fidelisproperties.co.uk

SOLD

SOLD

Why Vendors Choose Fidelis Members of the Guild of Professional Estate Agents Park Lane Office No Hidden Fees Bespoke Marketing Package Mobile Website

SOLD

Professional Photography and Brochures

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Fidelis Estate Agents 134 Wells Road, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 3AH

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Email: info@fidelisproperties.co.uk

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k Mar r o l y a N

BLOOMFIELD AVENUE

ÂŁ695,000

A large and distinctive double fronted Edwardian semi-detached house that is now in need of refurbishment and upgrading.

Beautifully located, adjoining the allotments. Viewing is highly recommended.

Entrance vestibule, hallway, drawing room, sitting room, study, conservatory, dining room, kitchen, downstairs shower room, small cellar, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and separate WC. Small kitchenette. Approximate gross internal floor area: 2,050 square feet / 191 square metres.

1 Hayes Place, Bear Flat, Bath BA2 4QW

01225 422 224

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k Mar r o l y a N BEECHEN CLIFF ÂŁ625,000 Development opportunity to build two brand new semi-detached houses.

Ultra-modern design and planning permission passed. This is a great location at the end of Chaucer Road, close to Beechen Cliff and only moments from the City Centre.

Permission is granted for two, four bedroomed houses of approximately 1530sq ft/142 sq m and 1430 sq ft/132 sq m.

Further details from agents.

CHAUCER ROAD

ÂŁ495,000

This property is a highly individual, architect designed, detached bungalow built in the 1980s to a high specification. This delightful property is most certainly most worthy of an internal inspection to fully appreciate. It is thought by the agents to be either an ideal retirement property or, alternatively, an individual modern home on the doorstep of the City Centre that would suit young professionals.

Hall, sitting room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. Patio gardens and off-street parking. Approximate gross internal floor area: 715 square feet / 66 square metres.

www.mark-naylor.com

email: homes@mark-naylor.com

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Castle Combe A spacious four bedroom detached Cotswold stone country house with separate two bedroom cottage, large self contained office, outbuildings, attractive gardens and paddocks of three acres.

Features such as exposed stonework, beamed ceilings and an original 17th century stone fireplace give a warm ambience throughout the year, regardless of whether it is winter, with the log fire burning or a warm summer night with the doors open for a family party outside.With the large kitchen/breakfast room being the centre of daily comings and goings, a huge yet cosy sitting room and a very large dining room where you can entertain up to 20 guests for friendly suppers or formal dinners.

"The garden has been my passion and

there are many delightful features.We have two patios, one catching the morning sun so we often have breakfast here in the summer, while the other is used for evening BBQs. In addition to these features of the property, we converted the stone built stables into a self contained cottage which we presently utilise as a successful holiday let."

"We feel very lucky to have discovered this house, together with its unique location, and we have loved every minute of our life and the happy times our family have shared here.”

PADDOCK BARN COTSWOLD STONE DETACHED BARN CONVERSION • 4 BEDROOMS • 2 BATHROOMS • 3 RECEPTION ROOMS • OFFICE • DETACHED BARN STORAGE • DETACHED 2 BEDROOM STABLE CONVERSION • BEAUTIFUL GARDENS AND PADDOCK

Contact: 01225 320032

£999,950

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Bath The Empire is one of Bath's landmark buildings situated in the very centre of the City. Originally built as a hotel in 1901, commissioned by the Admiralty during the war years, and, in the mid 1990's, converted into exclusive apartments for the over 50's.

A grandiose entrance hall and original mahogany staircase immediately establish this building's credibility. Residents' drawing and function rooms are located on the ground floor, along with lifts that provide access to the lower ground floor communal facilities and to all apartment levels.

Apartment 4 is located on the first floor and offers two bedrooms, sitting room

with access to a full length balcony, high ceilings and wonderful views across the Avon valley, river and weir.

Communal facilities include guest suites, cinema room, laundrette, billiard room, craft room, exercise room, sauna, library and roof garden.The Empire will appeal to those seeking a rather special secure base in the City centre, with glorious far reaching views, and Bath's fashionable shopping areas on the door step.

THE EMPIRE VICTORIAN PROPERTY • 2 BEDROOMS, MASTER EN-SUITE • FAMILY BATHROOM • KITCHEN • SITTING ROOM • COMMUNAL GARDENS • OFF STREET PARKING • BALCONY • EPC RATING = C

Contact: 01225 320032

£550,000

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Henrietta Street

Offers in Excess of ÂŁ375,000

Georgian apartment | Grade I listed | Newly refurbished | Modern kitchen | Two double bedrooms | Luxury bathroom | Highly recommended Having recently undergone a complete refurbishment to an exceptionally high standard this beautifully presented and well proportioned accommodation comprises: spacious sitting room with original feature fireplace, modern oak kitchen with natural stone flooring, two large double bedrooms and a luxury bathroom. Located on the highly sought after Henrietta Street this apartment benefits from being just a short, level walk from the City Centre.

Kensington Chapel

Offers in Excess of ÂŁ370,000

Grade II listed | Converted Chapel | Spacious accommodation | Two double bedrooms | Luxury kitchen and bathrooms | Allocated parking space | Lift access This fabulous apartment within a unique chapel conversion. Designed by John Palmer this spacious two bedroom Georgian apartment offers spacious and beautifully presented accommodation and benefits from having a gated allocated parking space, lift access, sole use of a secure large storage cupboard to the rear of the property and a communal area for all residents to enjoy. Located within walking distance of the City Centre.

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Old Walcot School

£1100 pcm

Three bedroom | Central location | Council Tax Band D | Parking - Central zone permit | Tenant fee £350 +VAT | Furnished | Available immediately Luxury furnished apartment set within The Old Walcot School and conveniently situated for City Centre shops and amenities. The apartment comprises a large open plan sitting room and a fitted kitchen with dining area. There are double doors leading to a double bedroom. An impressive feature wooden spiral staircase leads from the open plan sitting room to first floor level. Family bathroom with shower. Master bedroom with en-suite shower room and a third bedroom/study. Recommended.

The Hay loft

£825 pcm

Studio apartment arranged over two levels | Secure parking | Bills included | Sought after location | Tenant fee £350 +VAT | Furnished | Available immediately Beautifully presented studio apartment in a much sought after location just north of Bath City Centre. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, shower room on the ground floor, stairs rising to first floor. Spacious double aspect sitting room/bedroom and well equipped fitted kitchen. Outside there is secure locked courtyard with parking for one car. Inclusive of council tax, water rates, gas/electricity.

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The Grange

Offers in Excess of ÂŁ385,000

Luxury period apartment | Well presented | Sought after location | Large sitting room | Two bedrooms | Private courtyards | Allocated parking Currently run as a successful holiday let this delightful garden apartment enjoys a peaceful setting whilst being within easy reach of the City Centre. The spacious and beautifully presented accommodation comprises: large sitting room with marble fireplace, modern kitchen, two double bedrooms and a luxury bathroom. Externally there is a private patio and courtyard area which surrounds the property and which can be accessed from three rooms.The property benefits from its own parking space.

Great Pulteney Street

Offers in Excess of ÂŁ350,000

Georgian apartment | Beautifully appointed | Stunning kitchen | Prestigious address | Second floor | Luxury bath and shower room | Stunning views This stunning Grade I listed two bedroom apartment is located in the world famous Great Pulteney Street and offers spacious, well presented accommodation all just a level walk from the City Centre. This second floor apartment offers two bedrooms, master with en suite, main bathroom, sitting room with open plan kitchen. This is a truly special apartment in a wonderful location and an internal viewing is highly recommended.

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Perrymead A stunning property set within a breathtaking part of Perrymead with a detached studio and superb views | entrance hall | drawing room | sitting room | study/playroom | kitchen/breakfast room | utility room | cloakroom | master bedroom with en suite | 3 further bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | detached studio: bedroom, studio, kitchen, wet room | garden | parking | shared woodland of approx. 3 acres available by separate negotiation | Guide Price: ÂŁ995,000

Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333

www.crispcowley.co.uk

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Wellow A well presented family house situated in the heart of this sought-after village | entrance hall | sitting room | dining room | kitchen | cloakroom | snug | master bedroom | 3 further bedrooms | 2 bathrooms | delightful rear garden | Guide Price: £650,000

Crisp Cowley Ralph Allen’s Town House York Street Bath BA1 1NQ 01225 789333

www.crispcowley.co.uk

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