The Bristol Magazine April 2016

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THE

Issue 142

WWW.THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

£3.95 where sold

I

APRIL 2016

MAGAZINE

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WHAT’S TRENDING AT BRISTOL FASHION WEEK

FASHION CONSCIENCE ETHICAL THREADS FROM AROUND THE CITY

MEET THE TEAM BEHIND THE NEW STOKES CROFT GALLERY TWENTY TWO

HATS OFF TO HER

WE CHAT TO LOCAL MILLINER ANNABEL ALLEN

ROAD TESTED THE NEW AUDI A4 AVANT

PEACE IN THE VALLEY

TAKE A TURN IN TORMARTON

T H E C I T Y ’ S F I N E S T M O N T H LY G U I D E T O L I F E A N D L I V I N G I N B R I S T O L

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THE | CONTENTS

APRIL 2016

34 10 48 40

44 10 ZEITGEIST Five things to do this month in Bristol

12 THE CITYIST We chat to Sunset Cinema’s Ti Singh

14 BARTLEBY ...Is he a Nimby ot not?

16 FACE THE MUSIC Meet the gals at Gallery Twenty Two

19 FASHION WEEK Mark Heyes tips us off on the latest trends to look out for

68 CITY BEAUTY

40 ETHICAL STYLE Jenny Hayes meets the city folk with a fashion conscience

Hero products with beauty buff Emma Hollingworth of Harvey Nichols

74 OUT AND ABOUT

44 CREATIVE BRISTOL Milliner Annabel Allen has her head in the game...

48 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Tasty titbits from local restaurants

Andrew Swift kindly shows us a favourite route around Tormarton

76 MOTORING Dara Foley gets to grips with the new Audi A4 Avant

78 GARDENING

50 BRISTOL UPDATES Business news from across the city

56 WRITTEN IN THE STARS

Create your own cutting garden with the help of our green-fingered expert Margaux Speirs this spring

Spot Leo in the night sky this month

26 WHAT’S ON Pencils and diaries at the ready...

32 HYSTERICAL HISTORIES

ON THE COVER

58 FAMILY FUN Springtime activities for a younger audience this month

Coast’s Ameliana floral maxi skirt and Zahara off-theshoulder combo – turn to p19 to see what else is trending at Bristol Fashion Week SS16

Imagined anecdotes from bygone times

60 FREELANCE MUM 34 ARTS & EXHIBITIONS

Faye Dicker introduces us to Graft

What’s on at the city’s galleries

38 BRISTOL AT WORK Bust a groove with Minirigs

Even more great content online: thebristolmag.co.uk

66 EDUCATION NEWS What’s going on at our city’s schools and colleges at the moment?

Follow us on Twitter @thebristolmag

Like us on Facebook.com/ TheBristolMagazine THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 3

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HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £1,750,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Stoke Bishop An exquisite family home (3,283 sq ft) in a quiet and private location. 3 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, utility room, cloakroom, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (3 ensuite). 2 garages, garden and terrace.

EPC D.

Guide price £535,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price £650,000

Clifton

Clifton

A fine lateral hall floor apartment (1172 sq ft) with parking and terrace.

Substantial drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, 2 bedrooms (1 ensuite), guest shower room, private terrace, off street parking for one vehicle.

Immaculate three bed lateral apartment (1,490 sq ft) with balcony and parking. Contemporary open plan kitchen/breakfast/drawing room, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, decked balcony and allocated parking.

Knight Frank April.qxp_full page 21/03/2016 14:14 Page 2

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £2,250,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Clifton An elegant listed townhouse (5,200 sq ft). 3 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 ensuite), self-contained 1/2 bedroom apartment, cellars, garden, off-street parking, communal gardens.

Guide price: £875,000

Long Ashton A substantial Grade II listed family home (2,941 sq ft) with outbuilding. Open plan dining room/drawing room, library, snug, kitchen/breakfast room, hobbies room, 6 bedrooms, hay barn, stable, garage and large gardens.

nTheMarket.com

Guide from £985,000

Sneyd Park 4 spacious, 5 bed semi-detached houses, built to exacting standards, in the sought-after area of Sneyd Park. Close to The Downs, excellent schools and 1 mile from Whiteladies Road. Prices from £985,000.

Knight Frank April.qxp_full page 21/03/2016 14:15 Page 3

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: POA

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Sneyd Park A unique 5 bed home (3,487 sq ft) with outstanding views. Sitting/dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, family room, 5 bedrooms, family bath, guest shower, utility, extensive sun terrace, manicured terraced gardens, swimming pool and parking.

From ÂŁ295,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: ÂŁ835,000

Clifton

Bleadon

FINAL PHASE: This sympathetically converted chapel in the centre of Clifton will comprise of 16 one and two bedroom apartments. All apartments benefiting from parking. Last remaining: 1 two bed and 2 one beds.

Beautiful detached family home (3,211 Sq ft) with exceptional views.

4 reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast, utility. 6 bedrooms (2 ensuite), family bathroom. In all 2.57 acres of gardens and paddock. EPC C.

Knight Frank April.qxp_full page 21/03/2016 14:15 Page 4

HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2016 If you are considering selling a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 417 offices across 58 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

Call us today on +44 117 317 1999 to arrange your free market appraisal.

Knightfrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com

0117 295 0425 Guide price: £1,200,000

KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Stoke Bishop Contemporary and generously proportioned detached family home (2,551 sq ft) within a gated community.

Kitchen/breakfast/dining room, utility, sitting room/family room, master suite, 2 guest suites, 3 further bedrooms, family bathroom, established gardens, summer house, play area, parking, double garage.

Guide price £675,000

nTheMarket.com

Guide price: £625,000

Northwick

Spindleberry

A charming detached cottage (2,124 sq ft). 4 reception rooms, kitchen.

3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room. Detached stone outbuildings, log store, double garage, gardens & paddocks.In all about 3.36 acres. EPC F.

4 bedroom barn conversion (1,871 sq ft) with stunning views. Drawing room, kitchen/dining room, study, 4 beds (1 ensuite), bathroom. Log cabin/summerhouse, workshop. Large gardens and parking. EPC D.

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THE

BRISTOL MAGAZINE

Contact us: Editor Amanda Nicholls Tel: 0117 974 2800 Email: amanda@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Web Editor Demelza Durston Email: demelza@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Publisher Steve Miklos Email: steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Production Manager Jeff Osborne Email: production@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Production Assistant Jessica Hope Email: jessica@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

from the

Advertising Sales Louise Harrold, Sue Parker, Liz Grey

EDITOR

For advertising enquiries please contact us on: 0117 974 2800 Email: sales@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Financial Director Jane Miklos Email: jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Oooh, fashion!

“I like my money right where I can see it – hanging in my closet...”

The Bristol Magazine is published by MC Publishing Ltd. An independent publisher.

Y

ep, the heady combination of April’s arrival; a brand new season and a hint more sunshine in the skies (steady on); plus a fresh pay packet in our pockets, has seen our thoughts turn rapidly – and a little obsessively – to re-populating the spring wardrobe.

Thus it’s a pretty fashion-focused issue from us this month, and we hope you’ll enjoy nosing through the following pages as much as we’ve enjoyed putting them together.

Happily, it’s Bristol Fashion Week from 6-10 April so there’s plenty of new inspiration to be found out on the high street and beyond – stylist Mark Heyes gives us the lowdown on trends to look out for while you’re pounding the pavements in search of sassy new threads, on page 19, while on page 44, creative, independent local milliner Annabel Allen throws her hat(s) into the style ring. We’ve also been feeling super-inspired by the city’s burgeoning ethical fashion scene – flick to page 40 to find out more about these forward-thinking city folk.

Elsewhere in the mag, we chat to the dynamic duo behind new Stokes Croft gallery Twenty Two (p16), and more of the many business folk that help the city go round (see p38); before test-driving the slick new Audi A4 Avant (p76) and traversing the pleasant terrain of tranquil Tormarton with Andrew Swift (p74). ’Course, there’s plenty more for you to get stuck into, including the usual raft of exciting events happening in Bristol – bang them the diary, stat!

We’ll see you in May...

The Bristol Magazine is distributed free every month to more than 20,000 homes and businesses throughout the city. We also have special distribution units in Waitrose, John Lewis and Harvey Nichols as well as many stores and coffee shops, hotels and convenient pick-up points.

THE

BRISTOL MAGAZINE

Bristol and Exeter House, Lower Approach, Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QS Telephone: 0117 974 2800 www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk © MC Publishing Ltd 2016

AMANDA NICHOLLS EDITOR

@thebristolmag Editor’s image by Paolo Ferla

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www.thebristolmag.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bristol Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers.

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ZEITGEIST

The top

5

things to do in APRIL

GOOD TIME CHARLIE

SECRET ESCAPE When you think of Bedminster, what do you think of? Tall terraces, the Tobacco Factory, awesome graffiti? How about lush greenery?

Probably not so much. But, in fact, behind Bemmie’s brick walls are some wonderfully creative, productive and beautiful gardens – and that’s what Bedminster Secret Gardens is all about. On 24 April, from 11am-4pm, local folk will be opening their gates for visitors’ viewing pleasure, showing what can be achieved in a small urban garden. The £2 guide, available now from the Create Centre, Bell Lane Flowers, Eileen's Flowers, Ivory Flowers, Riverside Garden Centre, Southville Centre and the Tobacco Factory Market (on the day, 10am-2.30pm), gives two people entry to all the gardens. Plants will be available to buy in some gardens and proceeds go to groups such as Patchwork Community Gardening, who transform patches of abandoned land into gardens for all to enjoy. www.bloomingbedminster.org.uk

Everything changed for Charles Bradley – the James Brown impersonator who dealt with homelessness, illness and the murder of his brother while waiting for his big break – when the head of Daptone Records walked into a New York nightclub and heard him singing.

Soon after, at the age of 62, Charles released his debut album, No Time For Dreaming, and finally started getting the recognition he deserves. Head to the Colston Hall on 15 April to hear his distinctive rough-hewn voice of experience – each gruff inflection a reflection of his often rocky personal path. Tickets £13.25£26.50. For more information, visit: www.colstonhall.org

CAST YOUR MIND BACK...

Catch pedigree Britpop legends Cast performing their new album at the O2 Academy on 29 April. Formed in 1992, when a new genre of music was taking form, the band have reunited with original producer John Leckie (Stone Roses, Radiohead) to release Troubled Times – their first studio album in over 10 years.

With support from Dellavega. Tickets cost £20.25 plus £2.25 booking fee. To book, visit: www.academymusicgroup.com

THE REEL DEAL The Banff Mountain Film Festival is coming to town from 6-8 April, offering audiences the chance to enjoy exhilarating, inspirational adventures from the comfort of the Victoria Rooms. Expect a diverse collection of the newest and best films from the global mountain culture and sports community, selected from over 350 films entered into the prestigious 40th anniversary edition of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, held in the Canadian Rockies in November 2015. For more information, visit: www.banff-uk.com Eclipse © Reuben Krabb

CHOOSE LIFE...

As if it hadn’t already collected enough cool points with its recent exhibition celebrating Glastonbury Festival, exciting new underground arts venue The Loco Klub presents a critically acclaimed staging of cult classic novel Trainspotting, by In Your Face and King’s Head Theatre, from 6-17 April. Following sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe last year, this punchy production is fittingly taking place in the dark tunnels under Temple Meads, recapturing the passion and controversy of the novel and film (this year celebrating its 20th anniversary), and repackaging it into an immersive experience. Prepare to be part of the show, including the notorious ‘worst toilet in Scotland’ scene... Tickets £10/£14; www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

5 reasons to spend this summer on Scilly

#TravelLocal

Scilly’s white sands and picturesque harbours might well be enough to tempt you to hop on a flight, but beyond the postcard perfect beaches you’ll also find a vibrant and welcoming community. When you travel to Scilly there’s a real sense that you’re not just a tourist, you’re part of island life, and it’s this feeling that entices visitors back to the islands year after year.

Read on for the top 5 reasons to travel local and choose Scilly this summer... ➊ FOR THE WARM WELCOME Scilly is home to just a couple of thousand full-time residents, but visitors become honorary islanders for the length of their stay. You’ll be immersed into the Scilly way of doing things, leaving your car on the mainland and getting around by boat, bike, on foot or in a golf buggy. ➋ FOR ITS AUTHENTICITY Beach BBQs, buying homemade fudge from honesty box stalls, fishing for your own mackerel. If your idea of the perfect holiday is experiencing a different way of life, a stay on Scilly might just have you hooked. As you get to know the islands better, you’ll find yourself slipping into the islands’ calmer pace and you’ll soon get used to planning your schedule around the tides.

Fly Having been welcomed aboard an eight or nineteen seat aircraft by your pilot, you’ll kick-start your holiday with a scenic flight over the coast of Cornwall. Skybus planes have the added bonus of an open cockpit, so you’ll enjoy the rare treat of watching your pilot fly.

Sail Once you’ve collected your retro travel token, you can relax on the deck enjoying views of St Michael’s Mount, the Minack eatre and Wolf Rock Lighthouse. You might even spot a pod of dolphins following the ferry during the crossing. ➌ FOR UNIQUE EXPERIENCES Island living is all about making the most of the great outdoors and there are so many ways you can enjoy Scilly’s spectacular landscape. You could lace up your walking boots and head to the coastal paths.

Breathe in the fresh sea air and seek out secluded beaches and caves. Water lovers can try standup paddleboarding, swim with grey seals or visit the uninhabited islands by boat.

Take me there Travel to Scilly and you can enjoy a slice of island life without the long haul. e islands are a mere 60-minute flight from Exeter Airport, 30 minutes from Newquay and 15 minutes from Land’s End. You can also sail from Penzance in under three hours on the Scillonian III passenger ferry.

www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk Tel: 01736 334220 #TravelLocal

➍ FOR A TASTE OF ISLAND LIFE Wherever you are on Scilly, you’re never more than a short walk or boat trip away from freshly caught fish and seafood. From pop-up crab shacks to lively gastropubs and food festivals, you can easily spend a week letting your taste buds do the exploring. ➎ FOR THE JOURNEY Whether you choose to fly to Scilly by Skybus or sail on the Scillonian III passenger ferry, Isles of Scilly Travel goes to great lengths to make sure the journey is part of the island experience. You’ll be travelling just as the locals do, with the company they started nearly a century ago.

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ist

THE CITY THE BUZZ

My BRISTOL

Ti Singh, manager at Bristol Sunset Cinema, tells us what he’s up to this month...

How long have you been in Bristol?

I was born in Bristol and have lived here for most of my life.

Current projects?

I also run the Bristol Bad Film Club so I’m always organising screenings around the city.

For Bristol Sunset Cinema, I’ve just put the finishing touches to a season of six outdoor film screenings that we’ll be putting on at Ashton Court in September and October.

Snap it up...

Entries are now open for 24 Hours in Bristol, the unique photographic competition challenging professional and amateur photographers to capture the essence of life in the city over one 24-hour period – from midday on 16 April to midday 17 April. Now in its fourth year, the competition – which offers £6,000 in prizes – randomly allocates entrants a specific hour of the day or night during which they must take at least one entry photograph – ensuring excellent hourby-hour coverage of a typical day in the city. Entry fee is £18.50, including submission of one image. Further images can be entered at £5 each. For more information visit: www.24hoursinbristol.co.uk

Colour me happy We’re loving this brand new Bristol-centric book tapping into the whole colouring-for-adults trend. The Bristol Colouring Book features intricate illustrations of some of the city’s most iconic landscapes, from the historic floating harbour, to Clifton Downs, the Avon Gorge and Temple Meads, and celebrates the city’s unique appeal. For more info: www.thehistorypress.co.uk

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What are you reading right now?

Brian Blessed’s autobiography! He was kind enough to record a video introduction for our screening of Flash Gordon at Clifton Observatory last year, so we’re big fans.

What’s pumping through your headphones?

I have Hamilton on loop on my phone – the musical currently taking Broadway by storm.

It’s essentially a hip-hop production about the American Revolution focusing on the ‘founding father’ Alexander Hamilton. Imagine HBO’s John Adams series, but with more rap battles.

Film or play? (We reckon we know the answer) While I often to go the Colston Hall and can't wait to see Derren Brown at the Hippodrome, I'm more often in the cinema. April has a bunch of great films coming out including The Jungle Book, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot and Captain America: Civil War, which we're riding on the back of at the Bristol Bad Film Club by screening the 1990 Captain America film at Wardrobe Theatre on 11 May to raise money for Help For Heroes – if you want to see what a superhero film looked like before they started

caring about the characters, it's definitely worth checking out.

Which restaurant are you loving?

I recently went to Three Brothers and their burgers were fantastic.

Favourite watering hole?

I live in Bedminster and we have a great selection of pubs on North Street – I love The Steam Crane and The Hare.

Which museum or gallery will you be visiting?

I keep meaning to go to Death: The Human Experience at Bristol Museum What else will you be doing in April?

I recently started a podcast with Tara Judah at 20th Century Flicks – Bristol's best video store.

We're very different in our film tastes so Cinema Blindspot is us recommending films to each other that we've never seen or deliberately avoided. I'll also be finally going on my honeymoon four months after I got married!

What local event will you be attending?

The Optimus Comic-Con in early April – and although it's not until June, I can't wait to see Sigur Ros as part of Bristol's Summer Series!

Favourite local walk?

I'm often up at Blaise Castle. It's a fantastic estate and so peaceful – even with our two large dogs bounding through the undergrowth.

For further information: www.facebook.com/bristolsunsetcinema

BOOK OF THE MONTH...

Charlotte Pope at Foyles bookshop reviews High Rise by JG Ballard With the film adaptation starring Tom Hiddleston soon to be released, now is the time to pick up this dystopian classic by JG Ballard – probably most well-known for his semi-biographical novel Empire of the Sun. Eager for privacy and seclusion, Dr. Robert Laing has exactly what he is looking for among the modern high-rise buildings that obliterate the skyline above. Totally self-sufficient and isolated, he barely needs to leave the building: its floors boast supermarkets, swimming pools, a restaurant and even a primary school. But, cut off from the rules and restrictions of the outside world, the highrise is a law unto itself. What begins as annoyances at power disturbances and petty arguments between neighbours, turns into a vicious orgy of violence with tenants throwing off all social restraints and turning feral. Groups savagely attack ‘enemy’ floors – their primal instincts taking over – and before long, the ways of the old world are left behind... This book also contains one of my favourite opening lines ever: “Later, as he sat on his balcony eating the dog, Dr. Robert Laing reflected on the unusual events that had taken place within this huge apartment building during the previous three months...”

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 13

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Nimby nation

T

hey say a person’s true character only emerges under pressure. You can say what you like about any given subject, but your beliefs and attitudes are meaningless until tested. To take one example, I have never considered myself a ‘Nimby’, yet now I find myself fretting about a proposed new housing development in a way I have to admit is pretty Nimbyish. Or is it?

The origins of the expression ‘Not In My Back Yard’ are lost in the leafy residential streets of time, but I remember Tory minister Nicholas Ridley using it to describe people who objected to supposedly vital infrastructure projects.

That was in the 1980s, and since, vociferous local objections have stymied everything from airport extensions to new schools. None of us likes to see our area undergo dramatic change, but there’s a distinction to be made between out-and-out Nimbyism – i.e, I object because it will spoil my view or make it harder to park – and a sensible objection based on pre-existing use.

Remember the furore over the Bristol and Bath Railway Path a few years ago? A plan was put forward to turn a path used by walkers and cyclists into a kind of bus lane, but withdrawn in the face of protest. In that case you could see the point: the route was already used regularly by lots of people, so the losses involved in the venture probably outweighed the gains. In my corner of the city, the Nimbies have been kept busy for years by the proposed new arena, supposedly to be built near Temple Meads. Personally I’m quite keen on the idea of Bristol having a new music venue, but I suspect I will be dead and gone long before it’s actually built. Locals object to the traffic it will no doubt generate, and with good reason, given the congestion during rush hour, but I suspect there would be opposition even if free magic carpets were laid on at

❝ BRISTOL IS BOOMING. LOTS OF PEOPLE WANT TO LIVE HERE AND THE HOUSE PRICES ARE GOING UP AND UP

❞

the Long Ashton park and ride. Other than die-hard music fans like Big Jeff, nobody wants an arena plonked down at the bottom of their road. They want it plonked down at the bottom of someone else’s road.

My current dilemma is slightly different. A certain property development company is planning to build a whole lot of new apartments near Bartleby Towers – in principle, a project we welcome. After all, Bristol is booming.

Lots of people want to live here and the house prices are going up and up.

Besides, the development will not be despoiling the countryside but – we hope – improving a patch of neglected urban land. In fact, this is just the sort of building we – as a recent Green Capital – ought to be doing. My new neighbours will be able to walk or cycle to work in the city, frequent local shops and cafes, be part of the street-food-munching, outdoor-gig-going, Harbourside-strolling Bristol. Let’s get those cement mixers rolling!

But as things stand, they may also live 15 floors up, in a tower block that will so dominate the generally low skyline, that the character of the neighbourhood will be forever changed. For the developer, after all, this is an opportunity to maximise revenues by putting in as many units as possible for the lowest price. Some argue that they could build in a more sensitive way and still house the same number of people – but slightly less profitably – and that they should be encouraged to do so. Does this make us Nimbies? Or something else – perhaps Scimbies (Suitable Construction in My Back Yard) or the more exotic-sounding Tbimbies (Thoughtful Building in My Back Yard)? Yes, that’s it. I’m a Tbimby, and proud! n

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FACE | THE MUSIC

Zoe Cox and Victoria Chalmers, © justinefrost.co.uk

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FACE | THE MUSIC

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK Samantha Coleman chats to business manager Zoe Cox and prize-winning artist Victoria Chalmers – the two women who set up Bristol’s newest art gallery – and uncovers the tunes that fuel their creativity

Y

ou may have noticed a new hive of activity in Stokes Croft, and that’s down to the opening of Gallery Twenty Two, Bristol’s newest art space run by dynamic duo Zoe Cox and Victoria Chalmers. With two successful exhibitions already under their belt since opening in February, Zoe and Victoria have high hopes for the gallery. “Our aim is to champion the work of British contemporary artists, showing painting, print, drawing, illustration, sculpture and photography,” says Victoria. “We will also be working closely with our neighbours, Jamaica Street Artists, who featured in our opening exhibition, offering them a versatile gallery in which to exhibit throughout the year – something that has not been available to them as of yet. Not only that, we will be working as an event space too; it’s a great backdrop for parties and gatherings. In fact, we’ve already hosted two fabulous events here – a cookery book launch and a women-in-business seminar.”

Speaking about their first exhibition, Zoe says: “We had a very positive response to our opening, and I think that’s because we’ve got a really good space that’s not intimidating, despite the fact that we are showing bold pieces of artwork.”

It appears that Gallery Twenty Two has integrated into the diverse Bristol arts scene seamlessly and amicably, probably thanks to the pair’s knowledge and background spanning the arts; Zoe in theatre and music and Victoria in contemporary art.

But the story of how they came into this exciting partnership is probably one that only fate could’ve written. Victoria and Zoe met at school in London 30 years ago and went on to lead separate busy lives. After studying art in Falmouth, Victoria was making her mark in the young artists’ world in London, having been commissioned by Saatchi; while Zoe worked in marketing and promotions for Universal in the USA and the UK, moving on to produce theatre shows in Sadler’s Wells.

It was years later that chance would have them meet again – this time in Bristol; at Horfield Leisure Centre, when they were both taking their children swimming. “I couldn’t believe it,” says Victoria. “Zoe didn’t look any different despite so much time having passed. After we got chatting we discovered that we only lived five doors away from each other too!”

It turned out that both women had relocated to Bristol after seeking a slower pace of life and breathing space. “It was my brother that brought me and my family to Bristol, really,” says Zoe. “He was training to be an actor at the Bristol Old Vic and living in Clifton Village. When we came to visit him, we immediately fell in love with the city and decided to move here. It’s vibrant yet calm at the same time and it’s a lot nicer and easier bringing up a child here than in London. I thought it would help my children enjoy their childhood for longer.”

Zoe continued working in the music business on a freelance basis, which allowed her to fuse into the creative scene of the city, befriending many of the movers and shakers, including the people at Bristol-based property company Portland Brown, who approached Zoe to see if she could do anything with the available space they had in Stokes Croft. “It was just screaming for art,” says Zoe. “Having spoken to lots of artists, I found that Bristol had a lack of spaces to show, so I approached Victoria who has an excellent eye for art, and we made Gallery Twenty Two happen with the hope of bridging the gap between a commercial and public space.”

Catch the gallery’s latest exhibition, Stoke, curated by renowned art editor Phil King, until 1 April, Thursday – Sunday, noon – 6pm. For further information visit www.gallerytwentytwo.co.uk or keep up to date with the latest news and exhibition dates on Twitter, @gallerytwenty2

Victoria’s top five tracks: ❶ Jet: Are You Gonna Be My Girl I've chosen this song for the simple reason that it makes me feel like sitting down just isn't an option. ❷ Nick Cave: Into My Arms When I first heard this song, the hook was his voice; that deep timbre against the piano is rich, a bit sinister, and entirely unsentimental. It’s a song I never tire of listening to, and I find myself choosing it and singing along late at night when life gets tough. ❸ Joni Mitchell: A Case Of You I love this album and I love every song on it – it reminds me of being 16.

I listened to it over and over and I still love it. A few years ago I tried to learn this on the guitar and made it sound like London’s Burning, but it was good to find the chords and pretend. She’s a great guitarist, and has an astonishing vocal range. ❹ Richie Havens: Freedom, live at Woodstock I can’t really say why I love this, all the words sound superfluous. You just need to listen to it really – the thing that makes music great just happens of its own accord. The whole event, the pictures, the people who played, the storm, the do-it-yourself feel, it’s all part of the reason artists do things that change the way we read the world. ❺ David Bowie: Life On Mars This is a bit obvious, I know, but I was the girl with the mousy hair, and Bowie just talked directly and indirectly to us all in our bedrooms and made me feel that although the mousy hair was probably dull, because I was listening to him, I might not be.

Zoe’s top five tracks: ❶ Louis Armstrong: What A Wonderful World The lyrics to this song make you want to live your life now and stop planning tomorrow. It's a reminder that today is precious and we are all too busy running to keep up. I see trees of green, red roses too… ❷ Nirvana: Smells Like Teen Spirit Cobain set out to write the ultimate pop song and he did just that. This reminds me of working for Geffen/Universal in the ’80s and breathing in Soho everyday. It was a lot of fun and this song takes me back there. ❸ Buena Vista Social Club: Chan Chan Hard to stand still when you hear the entire album. Cachaito’s bass playing is sublime. I would take this album to a desert island (with my husband) and dream of Havana and mojitos! ❹ Jessie Jay: Price Tag Reminds me of Friday nights, dancing with my youngest daughter in the front room. The restrictions of the week are over and it's our family time.

It's up tempo with a great sing-along chorus, so it makes for a great Friday night dance. ❺ Jeff Buckley: Hallelujah This Cohen cover by Buckley is just so haunting; it gives me goosebumps.

It never fails to make me cry when I hear it. My funeral song when my time’s up! n THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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BRISTOL | FASHION WEEK SPECIAL

STYLE

COUNSEL

THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE FINDS OUT E X A C T LY W H A T ’ S T R E N D I N G A T B R I S TO L FA S H I O N W E E K . . .

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MARK’S spring must-haves

ON THE COVER

Bristol Fashion Week starts this month, but before you brandish the banknotes in the name of a brand new wardrobe, presenter and TV stylist Mark Heyes gives us the lowdown on what’s hot in stores this coming season...

Flower power It wouldn’t be spring without a floral print. This season we’re mixing them up with clashing stripes, checks, dots, you name it. Look to Victoria Beckham’s SS16 collection for inspiration and invest in graphic separates to mix together.

Walk the line If there’s one trend you absolutely must buy into this season, it’s stripes. They are the new black. Of course, vertical ones are more flattering, but – many people don’t know this – they are actually more expensive for retailers to make because of the way the fabric is woven, so the fact that they are doing a lot of them shows just how influential this trend has been.

Prairie chic Unleash your inner country girl with this season’s floaty styles. Maxi dresses, fluttering frills and embellished accessories were the order of the day at Gucci, Coach and Erdem.

SUNSET STRIP: Coast’s vibrant and voluminous, sunset-hued floral Ameliana maxi and Zahara off-the-shoulder combo taps into two of this season’s trends in a way we really dig. Buy the whole shebang, you say? We reckon it’d be rude not to…

Ruffle your feathers We haven’t seen them for a while, but ruffles are going to be everywhere.

They were on the catwalk at Gucci, which really is the designer of the moment – a lot of high street stores have based their designs on Gucci’s new season trends.

All white on the night I love an all-white outfit in the summer – keep your fabrics luxe and your styling simple for a look sure to turn heads.

Designer doubles If you’re looking for designer style at high street prices, Oasis is totally on the ball this season. They have a new head of design shaking things up, and some amazing designer doubles – nightwear as outerwear that’s spookily like Celine, and some striped items that are very Prada. Topshop also has a great collection. A lot of their pieces seem young in style but actually they can be worn by any age group – they have some lovely florals. I’m also loving M&S – they’ve got some bang on-trend Victoria Beckham-inspired ruffles in their latest collection.

Bust a mule Fashion really does work on a 20-year cycle, so right now it’s the ’90s we’re revisiting with a lot of mules back in vogue. There are a few with those wooden block heels as well, which are quite ’70s and very stylish right now.

Look out for this bold, off-the-shoulder number from Marks & Spencer, which incorporates the ruffles trend too

On her shoulders Forget high hemlines and low necklines – the flesh to flash right now is the shoulder. Off-shoulder styles ruled the catwalk at Oscar de la Renta and Proenza Schouler as well as cut-away styles.

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HELLO, PETAL!

DARK MATERIALS: We’re big fans of this moodier take on the floral trend, soon to be on the rails at M&S. With a hint of Dolce & Gabbana about it, it’s the ideal designer double for spring, and with floral prints a perennial favourite, you’re sure to get a lot of wear out of it

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WALK THE LINE

SHOW YOUR STRIPES: Brightly coloured stripe fabrics were all over the SS16 catwalks, and if it’s good enough for Dior, Balmain and Pucci, it’s good enough for us. We love this effortlessly cool little tunic dress from River Island THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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PRAIRIE GIRL

WHITE OUT: This all-ivory maxi ticks plenty of the new-season boxes – Warehouse will be bringing out their pioneer spirit this season with some gorgeous homespun styles

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LOUD AND PROUD

Statement sleeves are back – Fendi, Erdem and 3.1 Philip Lim have all been flaunting them lately – and here, Hobbs has translated the trend beautifully for the high street, pairing it with a bold palette and ruffled offshoulder flourish

Want more on the latest trends?

Visit Bristol Fashion Week SS16 Running from Wednesday 6 April to Sunday 10 April, Bristol Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2016 features 17 45-minute catwalk shows across the five days – all presented by Denise Van Outen and Mark Heyes. Tickets start at £8.95 for a standard seat (£9.95 for second row seat and £13.95 for front row seat) and are available from www.mallcribbs.com or from The Mall’s Information Desk.

Keep up to date with all the latest news from Bristol Fashion Week by following @mallcribbs on Twitter and tweet using the hashtag #BristolFashionWeek

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Engagement Rings Wedding Rings Wedding Gifts

Stunning Engagement rings, Wedding bands and tailor-made rings Beautiful Gift Ideas for the bridesmaids, mother of the bride and for the groom A 10% discount on any pair of rings purchased & off any further gifts for your wedding when you mention The Bristol Magazine We also offer Bespoke Jewellery • Silver Jewellery • Watches Jewellery & Watch Repairs • Gold purchased (old jewellery & coins)

History, Tradition & Quality the only Kemps Jewellers since 1881 9 Calton Court, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3DF

www.kempsjewellers.com

0117 950 5090 THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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BRISTOL | EVENTS

WHAT’S ON There’s plenty to look forward to in April

See Michael Crawford at St George’s Bristol

John Cooper Clarke will be in Weston-super-Mare

for what they witness on screen.

Tickets £10, tel: 0117 973 5171 almataverntheatre.co.uk

FROM APRIL 1 UNTIL 23 APRIL, 7.30PM (THURS/SAT MATINEES 2PM)

Long Day’s Journey Into Night, Bristol Old Vic

7 APRIL, 8PM

Written by Eugene O’Neill, directed by Richard Eyre, starring Jeremy Irons and Lesley Manville.

Follow the lives of the Tyrone family as they struggle to overcome their past and the dark cycles of love and resentment that exist within their family bonds to face the future. Tickets from £7.50 from: bristololdvic.org.uk

John Cooper Clarke, also known as the Bard of Salford, shot to fame in the 1970s as the people’s poet and one of the leading voices of youth culture. He’ll be at Weston-Super-Mare to deliver his biting, satirical political verse with his trademark rapid-fire delivery.

Tickets: £17 – £26.50: parkwoodtheatres.co.uk

John Cooper Clarke, The Playhouse Theatre

5 APRIL 8PM

7 APRIL, 1.05PM – 1.45PM

Emily Barker, The Wardrobe Theatre

Wells Cathedral lunchtime concert, Wells Cathedral

See Emily Barker, award-winning songwriter and performer of the theme to BBC TV’s Wallander starring Kenneth Branagh. Her music is a blend of roots influences, from country to English folk via 60s pop. Tickets £10: thewardrobetheatre.com

FROM APRIL 8

5 APRIL, 12.30PM & 7.30PM

The Dream Collector, Alma Tavern Theatre

8 APRIL, 8PM

Follow the misadventures of an East London school group as it embarks on an overnight trip to the mansion of movie pioneer and Somnagraph inventor, Charles Somna. Arriving at the derelict mansion, they stumble upon a disused camera in the basement, nothing can possibly prepare them

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Join pianist Theodora Poole for some free music during your lunch time away from the stresses and strains of modern life. For more information visit: wellscathedral.org.uk

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Michael Crawford, St George’s Bristol Stage and screen star Michael Crawford – best known for his portrayal Spencer in Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em shares anecdotes and film clips before being presented with the 2016

APRIL 2016

Jeremy Irons and Lesley Manville star in Long Day’s Journey Into Night at the Bristol Old Vic

Aardman Slapstick award. Tickets from £8: stgeorgesbristol.co.uk or tel 0845 402 4001 9 APRIL, 1.15PM

Violin and organ recital, The Lord Mayor’s Chapel Violinist Petronella Dittmer and organist Andrew Kirk take you through a recital of classical music.

Free entry. lordmayorschapel.org.uk 9 APRIL, 8PM

Instant Wit! The Alma Tavern Theatre You’ll be in fits of laughter at this interactive show from Collaborative Improvisations. Be prepared to get involved and suggest themes for the show (best idea wins a bottle of wine).

Tickets £10: almataverntheatre.co.uk or tel 0117 973 5171

9 APRIL, 10.30AM

Oboe Elevenses with Sarah Bence, Holy Trinity Church, Westbury-on-Trym Join Royal College of Music’s oboist Sarah Bence at her recital in aid of the Organ Fund. Coffee and cake will be served from 10.30am, with the recital to follow. Tickets £5 (suggested donation on door) tel 0117 950 8644 10 APRIL – 24 APRIL, 9.30AM

Introduction to growing vegetables, University of Bristol Botanic Garden Join Steve Collins who will be introducing you over three weeks to the rewarding world of growing your own vegetables – from finding your patch to sowing the seeds and creating your own compost. A theory-based course with practical demonstrations and participation is encouraged. Places on the course are £120: bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden/events

9 APRIL, 10.30AM – 12.30PM

Gorge-ous Plants The Downs Join local botanist Libby Houston for a walk through The Downs and Avon Gorge. Enjoy spectacular views of floral displays under the expert guidance of Libby, but be aware of the steep slopes and uneven ground. Tickets £5 via emailing the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project, at Bristol Zoo: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk or tel 0117 903 0609

10 APRIL, 6AM – 8.30AM

Early Birds & Bacon Butties, The Downs Join expert in bird life, Michael Johnson as he teaches you how to identify birds on The Downs. After you’ve worked up an appetite, head back to the zoo for a hearty breakfast. Tickets £15 (includes a bacon bap/egg butty and tea/coffee) via emailing the Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project, at Bristol Zoo: mleivers@bristolzoo.org.uk or tel 0117 903 0609

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BRISTOL | EVENTS

14 APRIL, 7PM

The Vyrll Society, The Louisiana The Vryll Society have been kicking up a storm over the past year and picking up a strong following. The band has been championed by BBC Introducing and Huw Stephens, and their likened to The Rolling Stones channelling Storm in Heaven-era Verve through the spirit of Austin’s Black Angels. Support from Bristol’s The Shimmer Band.

Tickets £7: thelouisiana.net

FROM APRIL 15 16 APRIL, 7.30PM

Bristol Phoenix Choir, St George’s Bristol The Bristol Phoenix Choir and Orchestra perform Mozart’s Requiem and Bach’s Magnificat.

Tickets £10 – £15 (under 16s free): stgeorgesbristol.co.uk 17 APRIL, 2.30PM

Welsh National Opera, 70th anniversary, Redmaids’ Performing Arts Centre Leading Welsh National Opera singers will present a full programme to mark the great institution’s 70th anniversary, including pieces by Mozart, Puccini, Verdi and Wagner with accompaniment. Tickets £15: wno.org.uk

19 – 23 APRIL, 7.30PM

The Secret Rapture, Kelvin Players Theatre Company Written by David Hare, and directed by Bob Harvard, The Secret Rapture delves into family, relationships and loyalties, set against the backdrop of deceased Robert Glass and his family.

Tickets £12: kelvinplayers.co.uk

FROM APRIL 22 20 APRIL – 30 APRIL, 8PM

Dark Land Light House, Bristol Old Vic Studio This dark sci-fi thriller invites us on an otherworldy journey through time and space as lone lighthouse keeper Teller Ghent keeps watch while orbiting the Dark Land. Tickets £12: bristololdvic.org.uk or tel 0117 987 7877 22 APRIL, 7PM

Molotov Jukebox, Thekla Celebrate the release of Molotov Jukebox’s much anticipated second album Tropical Gypsy. Influenced by sights and sounds encountered in Mexico and Spain, it’s a footstomping whirlwind of revelry that joyfully deals with the highs and lows of everyday life. Fronted by the enthralling, charismatic Natalia Tena, the band’s shows give traditional world music a noholds barred modern carnival twist. Tickets £14: theklabristol.co.uk 23 APRIL, 7.30PM

Exultate Singers, St George’s, Bristol Join renowned guitarist Craig Ogden and cello virtuoso Richard May, as the Exultate Singers fill St George’s with a sense of the divine.

Included in the performance will be the sounds of Latin America featuring music by Ginastera, Villa Lobos and Juan de Araujo.

Conducted by David Ogden.

Tickets £25 – £15: stgeorgesbristol.co.uk or tel 0845 402 4001 23 APRIL, 7.30PM

Bristol Ensemble, Trinity Henleaze URC Virtuoso pianist Viv McLean joins the ensemble to perform Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto, packed with poetry,

Molotov Jukebox, fronted by Natalia Tena, will be at Thekla

drama, tenderness and rhythmic drive. Tickets £5 – £16: henleazeconcertsociety.org.uk 24 APRIL, 4PM

A Night at the Musicals, Colston Hall Go with The Bristol Ensemble and the WestEnders on a wonderful sonic journey through the best of the musicals, including Phantom of the Opera, the Lion King, Miss Saigon and Les Miserables. Tickets £10: colstonhall.org 26 APRIL – 30 APRIL, 7.30PM (SAT MATINEE 2.30PM)

The Ugly One, Alma Tavern Theatre For Lette, life is tough when faced with a society so consumed by appearance. He turns to the knife to undergo a radical transformation in this gothic horror/comedy. In a world obsessed with conformity and capitalism, this play shows that you really can’t take anything for face value. Tickets £10 available: www.almataverntheatre.co.uk or tel 0117 973 5171 24 APRIL

The Vintage Furniture Flea Market, Paintworks Celebrating the styles of 21st century living, the formula of the

flea is simple. Gather eclectic vintage traders from all over the world, invite them to bring their whimsical, affordable homeware and set up a shop for a day. The flea features everything from Ercol to cocktail shakers.

26 APRIL – 7 MAY, 7.30PM (THURS/SAT MATINEES 2.30PM)

The Massive Tragedy of Madame Bovary!

Bristol Old Vic Theatre Part of Bristol Old Vic’s 250th anniversary, Gustave Flaubert’s masterpiece Madame Bovary is presented. Directed by Gemma Bodinetz, watch the consequences of Emma Bovary’s choosing of the wrong man. Tickets from £10: bristololdvic.org.uk or tel 0117 987 7877 27 APRIL, 7PM

The Divide and live Q&A, The Curzon Enjoy a special screening of Katherine Round’s debut feature The Divide. An original adaptation of Kate Pickett’s bestselling book The Spirit Level, this beautifully shot film creates a lyrical picture of how economic division creates social division.

The screening also includes a live Q&A panel. To book tel 01275 871 000 or visit: curzon.org.uk

EDITOR’S PICK...

16 APRIL, 7.30PM

Nerina Pallot, Colston Hall The Ivor Novello and Brit award-nominated singer, songwriterc and producer – who has also written for the likes of Kylie Minogue – will be performing a range of original material taken from her back catalogue of LPs and EPs, including her 2001 debut Dear Frustrated Superstar and her recent album The Sound and the Fury, released in 2015 and offering up a gritty, bold, bluesy sound.

To book tickets visit: colstonhall.org or tel 0844 887 1500.

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l a c i r e t s y H

HISTORIES

Bristol’s strangest contest...

Historian Julian Lea-Jones shows us an imagined side of Bristol’s history

I

n 1941 on Redcliffe Hill, a mild and decorous group of visiting Celtic Ranger fans were on their way to Ashton Gate, where they hoped to meet and have a friendly football match with The Robins.

Unfortunately, a road gang recognised the Rangers’ colours and an argument ensued as to the relative merits of their teams. The gang, all hefty chaps, were mending bomb-damaged tramlines and the arguments started to get ugly. However, a passer-by averted bloodshed and calmed the situation by suggesting that their argument could be settled by taking part in one of the traditional Scottish sports practiced at the Highland Games.

After some more heated discussion and name calling, they settled on a game of ‘tossing the caber’ instead. But what could they use? Then the foreman of the road gang had the idea of using a length of tramline instead of the more customary tree trunk. The first throw went to the Bristolians, who managed to get the tramline as far as the churchyard wall.

Unfortunately, but perhaps predictably, the Scots’ throw went much further – sailing right over the wall to the middle of the churchyard, where it can still be seen today, sticking out of the ground exactly as it hit all those years ago.

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Chagrined at losing, the Bristolians attempted to save face by suggesting the winner would be decided after the best of three. The Scots, jubilant at having clearly won, disagreed on principle, but headed into the churchyard with their opponents to inspect the tramline sticking out of the ground, before noticing blood all around it on the grass. Realising there were likely to be serious repercussions after their actions, both sides decided to beat a hasty retreat.

Leaving the tramline and an unfilled bomb crater there, they made for a pub on St Michael’s Hill – where another dispute broke out over the spelling of the name ‘Scotchman’ – but after a few pints, the original cause of the argument was forgotten, and the losers congratulated the Scots on their remarkable throw. The landlord, too, was so impressed at their sportsmanship that he renamed his pub, and this contest is why even today the pub on St Michael’s Hill is known as ‘The Scotchman & His Pack’. But what of the blood in the churchyard and why had the contestants vacated the scene of the contest so quickly? Well, a member of the congregation of the Church of St Mary Redcliffe later discovered that the tramline had killed the beloved church cat...

In the ensuing scandal, RSPCA militants wanted the contestants neutered.

However, in the interests of wartime morale, the incident was hushed up, which is why the tramline has a plaque blaming its arrival on a bomb – strictly true although stretching the point – and to confuse the conspiracy theorists there is still, just opposite the South Porch, a separate pre-dated tombstone for the poor old church cat. n

Image © Marc Vyvyan-Jones

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ARTS | & EXHIBITIONS

STATE OF THE ART Spring Show, at Coldharbour Framery & Gallery, until 21 May If you like the sound of bold, bright and suitably spring-like botanicals, you’ll love Bristolbased artist Abigail McDougall's new set of paintings and prints, which depict exotic plants reflected in water. We’d happily pop each and every one of her collection on our walls – they’d add a welcome slice of sunshine to any room. Abigail, who works from the renowned Jamaica Street Studios, spends a few days in different locations intensively gathering sketches, photos and colour studies, always seeking the most interesting light and atmosphere for her compositions.

Continuing the theme of the show are a selection of paintings

by Izumi Omori, that feature a riot of Cornish wildflowers; while Rupert Blamire brings a splash of colour to the table with his beautifully glazed ceramics. www.coldharbourgallery.co.uk; 0117 944 6244

Pictured: Floating World, Kew

by Abigail McDougall

John Evans: Bristol and West Country, at Sky Blue Gallery, until 30 April

Still, at Rainmaker Gallery, until 28 May Fine art photographer Cara Romero heads a line up of native American artists as part of this show. Her underwater images expose the fragile and essential relationship that exists between people, water and life. Meanwhile, Robert Mesa’s richly coloured fancy dancers, concealed in fringing, are frozen in a fleeting moment of pure pow-wow; Kali Spitzer offers magnificent experiments with the wet plate process of tintype; and Zoe Urness mesmerises with her Keeping the Traditions Alive series. www.rainmakerart.co.uk; 0117 944 3101

Influenced by the artists of St Ives, John Evans plays with proportions to give a loose, contemporary feel to his paintings, and often utilises the immediacy of drawing directly onto the final work, which then dries into the paint. His palette, which features vibrant turquoise and lime green tones plus subtler hues, is loved by many collectors. www.skybluegallery.co.uk; 0117 973 3995

Eufala Tiger Girls by Cara Romero Castle Park Bristol

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ARTS | & EXHIBITIONS

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Michael Beutler: Pump House, at Spike Island, 16 April-19 June

For his first solo exhibition in a public art gallery in the UK, German artist Michael Beutler is presenting an ambitious, largescale, site-specific commission in two chapters. The first responds to Spike Island’s current use as a gallery and artists’ studio complex, and historic use as a tea packing factory.

Beutler works in situ and always uses industrial materials, which he repurposes and reinterprets in modular makeshift constructions with the help of hand-built tools (or ‘protomachines’, as art critic Gregory Williams once called them).

These tools are often shown alongside his installations as an integral part of the work. Beutler’s concern is with the process of production, and constitutes a subversion of industrial and serial manufacturing processes. Typically the artist involves a great number of ‘human’ collaborators and the social structure of the team they form acts as a catalyst for the development of the exhibition as a whole. Intrigued? Head to Spike Island on Cumberland Road this month and see his work first-hand. www.spikeisland.org.uk; 0117 9292266 The Helter Skelter

The Red Studio by James Bland

Simon Quadrat, the Royal West of England Academy, until 12 June In this intimate solo exhibition, Simon Quadrat RWA – elected an RWA in 2004 and president between 2010 and 2011 – explores notions of place and memory, evoking visons of the past that are at once nostalgic and full of narrative possibility. Post-war landscapes are scratched, scraped and layered with echoes from another time.

Fusing real and imagined imagery from his childhood in 1950s London, his migrant ancestors and his own travels, Simon constructs landscapes from the industrial cityscapes, abandoned fairgrounds and weathered buildings of his imagination. The off-kilter, self-contained worlds that he creates, where figures disappear and reappear among worn streets and flattened buildings, are like surreal stage sets or decayed dioramas. In his more imaginary works, Italian colonnades, Byzantine domes and the soot of London’s factories sit beside helter skelters and bustling harbours. These layered, literary landscapes are places which exist as much in the mind as in paint. www.rwa.org.uk; 0117 9735129

Also not to be missed...

Portrait II

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● Prism, at The Grant Bradley Gallery, 9-30 April

Graphic artist and designer Patrick Astwood has a new exhibition of giclée prints – work accumulated after a year-long process of image design and printmaking. Patrick's obsession with colour and form began a couple of years ago when he embarked on a series of ‘raw’ acrylic spray-painted canvases. The pieces had a purity and vibrancy that were both impactful and strongly evocative, often encouraging the viewer to project their own narrative onto the paintings. Using a number of different techniques, including photography, screen printing and digital manipulation, Patrick's method involves an intense process of superimposition, refraction and deconstruction. The resulting images remain familiar, but through the rearrangement of colour, boundaries and textures, they are transformed into more abstract forms. www.grantbradleygallery.co.uk; 01179 637673

● Wedding Show, at Diana Porter Contemporary Jewellery, 8 April-30 June Feelings of playfulness and the notion of seasons changing are captured in the eclectic mix of pieces featured in this wedding-themed exhibition at Diana Porter Contemporary Jewellery on Park Street. Bold yet delicate, mysterious and intriguing, each piece invites you to look at wedding jewellery in a new and enticing way. This spring show also features the work of Emmeline Hastings, Alice Clarke, Ulli Kaiser, Catherine Hills and Ulrikke Vogt. If you’re planning to tie the knot and are looking for your ‘something new’ to complete your all-important bridal ensemble, this is an exhibition not to be missed. www.dianaporter.co.uk; 0117 9090225

Pictured left: Vintage fur and pearl earrings by bespoke contemporary jewellery designer Ulli Kaiser

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Forgotten drawing set sells for £26,000 A silver drawing set discovered in the drawer of a Bristol home has sold at auction for £26,000. The owner had not noticed the significance of the name on the case, which showed it had belonged to John Wood, the famous 18th Century Bath architect responsible for the Royal Crescent and The Circus and who has become known as the architect whose influence formed the entire character of the city.

The silver drawing set measured just 13cm high and dates from about 1745. The silver fish-skin covered case bears both the engraved Coat of Arms of John Wood and his name in script.

Jewellery, Watches Silver & Gold Free Valuation Day Tuesday 26th April 10am – 4pm At the Salerooms Ample free parking

Estimated at £4,000 - £6,000 creating huge pre-sale interest, the set was secured by the Bath Preservation Trust for £26,000 and will be displayed in Bath for future generations to enjoy.

Interiors, Antiques, Collectables & Jewellery Auction Thurs 14th & Thurs 18th April at 10am On view day before, 10am – 7.30pm and sale day from 9am to start

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FREE VALUATION DAYS at the Salerooms

4, 5, 6, and 18, 19, 20 April 9.30 – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm

Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers The Auction Centre Kenn Road, Kenn Clevedon, BS21 6TT

Tel: 01934 830111 www.clevedon-salerooms.com

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BRISTOL AT WORK: Minirigs Our series of portraits by Charlotte Stone shines a spotlight on the folk that help make up the fabric of city life...

Words by Jenny Hayes

F

avourite tunes are always best enjoyed when blasted loud and clear from some serious hi-fi equipment. So whether you rock out to the Rolling Stones, enjoy a boogie to Bowie, or secretly sing along to Girls Aloud when you think nobody’s home, you’re missing a trick if you haven’t sorted yourself out with one of the hottest items on the music market at the moment.

Minirigs is a Bristol-born, Bristol-based sound system outfit who offer top quality audio from their single, tiny portable speaker units – which allow you to listen to your top tracks anywhere and everywhere.

Sound too good to be true? Well hearing is believing, so we caught up with founder Tom Tucker to find out more…

“The Minirig is a small, portable speaker and hi-fi, designed and built right here in Bristol,” explains Tom. “It uses a large 3” driver that really connects with the air, making it one of the loudest but cleanest sounding speakers on the market. One of our favourite features is the ability to link-up, so if you and your friends all have Minirigs you can keep daisy-chaining them together – they’re perfect for parties!

“Our story is one with humble beginnings,” he continues. “It started on sunny days in beautiful parks, spent enjoying and sharing the music we love with friends. Over many years, the idea of a portable sound system, for just those occasions, evolved through a series of obsessive hobbyist creations. It was done purely for the love of music and a fascination with technology, but our DIY creations proved ever more popular as they got more refined.

“The final step was to put our products into production so we could share the great sound we’d created with others. We wanted to manufacture in the UK, and since Minirigs had grown out of the Bristol scene, it seemed the obvious choice to base our operation here.

“Both David, my Minirigs co-founder, and I had a strong passion for speakers and had designed large PA systems to play the music we enjoyed in some of the biggest clubs and festivals in the UK. Dave had already studied electronics at Bristol Uni, so I went to UWE to study product design, and when Dave suggested building smaller speakers we never looked back – it’s a lot easier carrying the Minirig around.

“Each day is different here at Minirigs HQ. One minute we could be designing a new product in 3D CAD software; the next, making coffee for everyone. With the small team we have currently, everyone pitches in to get jobs completed according to whatever is most important at the time.

“We currently have some very exciting products in development.

Obviously audio is our speciality, so we hope to keep innovating in this area, but 2016 is set to be a very interesting year for us. So just watch this space...” n

CLASSICAL RECORDS WANTED Top prices paid for clean Classical Music vinyl LPs (Beethoven, Mozart etc.) from the 1950s onwards.

Labels include Columbia SAX, HMV ASD and Decca SXL. CD collections and vintage hi-fi equipment also of interest.

Call Tim: 07502 331438 or Adam: 07738 772381 or email: adam@viva-tonal.com

Image opposite: Minirigs is very much a team effort, so we captured the whole bunch at work for this month’s feature. Minirigs prices start at £129.98, for more information visit: www.minirigs.co.uk www.charlottestonephoto.com

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ETHICAL | STYLE

REBELS WITH A CAUSE Consumed by fast fashion? There is another way – as Jenny Hayes discovered when she met some of the pioneers of Bristol’s ethical fashion scene

L

ive fast, die young. You may not abide by that rule, but do the clothes in your wardrobe tell a different story? I know I’m guilty of falling for faddy fashions, and with modern life and modern budgets the way they are, that means I’ve purchased more than my fair share of throwaway clothing. So I decided it was time to take responsibility and unravel the truth behind some of my low-cost togs – with the help of four people who have rejected the shady sartorial underworld of disposable fashion in favour of a more sustainable approach. I learnt there’s a lot more to ethical fashion than hemp trousers and a scratchy cardi, and that by actually thinking a little more about the clothes I buy and the history behind them, I can gain far more enjoyment from my wardrobe.

You see, the beauty of shopping ethically – whether you buy new or second hand, support a local designer on an upcycling mission, or help create a sustainable life for someone somewhere else in the world – is that you receive a story along with each item. It’s certainly convinced me to turn over a new, greener leaf – and make fashion statements I’m proud of.

Ceri Heathcote Ethical fashion blogger ethicalfashionblog.com Interested in ethical fashion but have no idea how to make it work within 40 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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your wardrobe? Ceri Heathcote’s blog offers tips and inspiration galore…

So, Ceri, what first sparked your interest in ethical fashion?

I got interested in charity shopping when I started my blog, as it felt wrong for me to encourage irresponsible consumerism. Blogging about ethical fashion gave me the opportunity to indulge my love of clothes without compromising my values. I’ve had a really good response, with ethical brands contacting me, wanting to be featured, and readers saying it’s changed the way they shop.

What does the term mean to you?

For me, ethical fashion is fashion that has had a positive impact on the lives of those in the supply chain by allowing them to create a sustainable livelihood, and includes fair-trade clothing as well as that made from organic and fair-trade cotton. It is also about clothing that minimises my impact on the environment, such as second-hand or recycled items. Being sustainable also means buying clothes that will last, not lots of items that you don’t really need.

Why do you think the movement is so important?

Because of the continued unethical treatment of those working in the supply chain, and the pollution and waste created by the fashion industry. The ethical movement helps to raise awareness of these issues and offers an alternative via brands making a difference in some of the poorest countries in the world.

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ETHICAL | STYLE

The Fix Up Look Sharp label was born after staff at Clic Sargent on Gloucester Road decided to rework items that hadn’t sold, into fresh pieces

What benefits does ethical fashion offer the savvy shopper?

Aside from the feel-good factor, for me, the big benefit is the unique, innovative brands and designers you’ll discover. You’ll find timeless styles, high quality clothes that last for ages, and super soft, sustainable fabrics that feel great to wear.

Top tips for ethical shopping?

Shop online for the greatest choice; team second-hand items with modern, sustainable and ethical labels for a really wearable look; and remember vintage sizing can be variable, so check the measurements to be sure each item will fit.

Marcelle Fletcher Owner, Movement Boutique movementboutique.co.uk So now you know how to shop sustainably, where are you going to find these high-quality ethical items? Movement Boutique, on Alma Road, stocks womenswear and menswear from brands such as People Tree and Cock & Bull, as well as offering a beautiful range of fair-trade accessories and homeware. It’s a one-stop shop for ethical yet elegant living.

Why did you decide to open an ethical boutique, Marcelle?

My background is in the public sector – the last project I worked on was managing a national youth programme to help young people in deprived areas – and throughout my career, everything I’ve done has been for the good of other people. I wanted to bring that with me to this new venture. I’m not an eco-warrior, but I have my values and beliefs, and here at Movement what’s most important to me is sharing the stories behind the ethical brands that I stock.

Could you tell us about some of them?

I really love every brand I’ve chosen to include in the boutique but on the fashion front, I’m very proud to be the only stockist of Cock & Bull in Bristol. It was the first ethical and sustainable menswear brand in the UK, and every item is made in Britain, mostly from recycled fabrics, and finished by hand. I’m also privileged to stock bags by the incredible Brazilian company Bottletop. These are made from aluminium ring pulls, and have become highly sought-after fashion items – one recently featured as the centrepiece of a Selfridge’s window display about ‘The Human Face of Fashion’. The proceeds from every bag sold go to the Bottletop Foundation, which raises funds to support teenagers facing a range of issues, in Malawi, Mozambique, Brazil, and here in the UK. Another Image by Alistair Campbell Photography: alistaircampbellphotography.co.uk favourite is Sidai Designs jewellery. Each piece is made by women of the Maasai tribe, using upcycled beads and yoghurt pots held together with thread from grain bags, then finished with soft leather and recycled gold. The jewellery is so delicate, yet there is such strength and empowerment in the fact that it provides women with a sustainable livelihood.

Do your customers enjoy buying items with a story?

We’ve been so enthusiastic in telling people about our brands and the response has been incredibly positive – people are really keen to try something that is stylish and sustainable. We’ve had a good mix of customers too, from local people popping in for a look, to a young student who came in to buy a jacket because he believed it was better to pay for one good item than five throwaway pieces from Primark.

It seems that you really have started a new Movement in Bristol…

Well, that’s what inspired the name of the boutique. The word reflects the way clothes drape and fall, but it’s also quite political and suggests momentum gathering for change.

Ruth Strugnell Designer, Fix Up Look Sharp fuls.clicsargent.org.uk Moving toward a more sustainable wardrobe isn’t just about buying luxury ethical brands. Take Ceri’s advice and mix new items with second-hand and vintage pieces to create your own signature style. Charity shops are the perfect place to bag a bargain, and at Clic Sargent on Gloucester Road you can also pick up a bespoke, handmade item from Fix Up Look Sharp – assistant manager Ruth Strugnell’s fashion-focused initiative.

How did the Fix Up Look Sharp label come about?

I studied fashion at Bath Spa University and then, straight after my degree, I decided to move to Bristol – where I started volunteering in the Clic Sargent shop on Gloucester Road. When the assistant manager job came up I went for it, and when they asked me what I could bring to the shop, during my interview, I said; “Well, I can make clothes!” That was about four years ago now – just as upcycling was starting to become a bit of a thing – so we decided to make a label based around reworking items that hadn’t sold in the shop, into fresh pieces.

About 12.5% of the textiles Bristol Textile Recyclers handle remain in the UK

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ETHICAL | STYLE

Aimee Campanella Marketing manager, Bristol Textile Recyclers btr-ltd.co.uk The dedicated Bristol Textile Recyclers team work on the frontline to contain the consequences of our insatiable appetite for fast fashion. Every day, they divert 20 tonnes of unwanted clothing from landfill and, as BTR is only one of over 30 registered textile recyclers in the UK, that figure is just the tip of a terrifying iceberg…

Hey Aimee, could you explain to us what it is that Bristol Textile Recyclers does?

Traditionally, we work with charity shops in and around the greater Bristol area, buying whatever items they can’t sell. That isn’t just clothes, but also any non-textiles – such as books, bric a brac, CDs and DVDs – which we recycle for them, free of charge. We also work with over 400 schools and other groups who are looking to fundraise through recycling, as well as local councils and the general public who come in and donate their unwanted clothes.

What inspires you when you are designing a new collection?

I think Bristol as a whole contributes to the designs, because they reflect the street style here. I keep an eye on current trends, and I also design around the shapes and styles I see people wearing. My volunteer designer, Hayley, and I know our customer and what they are going to like. But there are limitations that we have to consider too – we can’t do anything that will use too much fabric or take up too much time. I know from experience that we rarely get a large piece of fabric, so I design items that have different panels or sleeves so we can mix and match prints.

What can we expect from the SS16 range?

I’m excited about this collection. I’m really pleased with the shapes that have come out of it and some of the fabrics that have been donated. I know that at the moment people are enjoying midi-length culottes and front pleats, so you’ll see those, and we’ve also got a great jumpsuit and some shorts and matching crop-top two-pieces.

Why is upcycling important to you?

Apparently there are now so many t-shirts in the world that every person could have five each, and yet more are being made each day. There is a ridiculous excess of fabric, so environmentally speaking it’s much better to upcycle clothes. As well as looking at upcycling in terms of ethical value, it’s also important to appreciate the creative side. I think people value something more if they think about the effort that has gone into creating it, and that makes it precious and worth spending a bit more money on. It is those items that you really love and wear loads, rather than just going into Primark, buying a top, wearing it a few times, chucking it out, and then buying another one. It’s just a different way of thinking.

We can’t believe you get more than 20 tonnes of clothes each day – what do you do with it all?

Here at the factory we go through every single item by hand to assess its reusability. We grade each piece into one of over 100 categories – such as women’s cotton blouses, or men’s three-quarter length shorts. Then, to keep the business model sustainable, we need to sell these materials on. About 12.5% of the textiles we handle remain in the UK. Initially, we look for the high-value, quirky fashion items that we resell to customers who run their own vintage shops, market stalls or online businesses. Of course, because these items are in such demand they are usually sold on eBay or bought in the charity shops we collect from before they reach us, which is why this sector only makes up about 0.5% of textile sales for us. A further 12% is recycled, being either cut up and used as cleaning cloth or burnt as energy from waste. Our first export market is buyers in Eastern Europe who, like our customers in the UK, are looking for fashionable, nearly new items that they can sell in second-hand clothing shops and boutiques, which again is only really another 0.5% of what we receive here. Then, all the remaining reusable summer clothes go to Africa, where they are sold to distributors, ready sorted. This makes up about 40% of our textiles. After that, we send any other reusable items to south Asia, where some are resold but most are downcycled into shoddy. As a result of fast fashion, more and more clothes are being downcycled, and south Asia is now inundated with the western world’s unwanted clothing. It’s kind of odd to think that a lot of our clothing is made in places in south Asia, and then it may soon end up back there for downcycling. We talk about food miles all the time, but what about clothes miles? ■ If you want to do your bit for the environment and snap up a bargain at the same time, head to Bristol Textile Recyclers on Victoria Terrace, St Philips Marsh, on Saturday 2 April for its #FashionSalvage Kilo Sale, where you can bag yourself a kilo of clothes for just £6. There’s also an upcycling workshop, hosted by We Do Ethical Fashion, at the kilo sale from 10am, where you can learn how to upcycle and transform your clothing in a few short, simple steps. For more information, visit: fashionsalavgeupcyclingworkshop.eventbrite.co.uk

You can also find sustainable fashion at: Kecks Clothing – kecksonline.wordpress.com Antiform – antiformonline.co.uk Linda Thomas Eco Design – lindathomasecodesign.co.uk Katcha Bilek – katchabilek.com Image by Alistair Campbell Photography

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ETHICAL | STYLE

Main image: We love this outfit, put together by Bristol Textile Recyclers Above, top to bottom: Blogger Ceri Heathcote; clothes getting sorted into different grades before being upcycled; Movement Boutique proudly stocks togs from the first ethical and sustainable menswear brand in the UK, People Tree; Fix Up Look Sharp’s designs are inspired by Bristol’s street style (image by Alistair Campbell)

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CREATIVE | BRISTOL

HATS OFF TO HER Turning your creative hobby into a successful business requires guts and a passion for your craft, as Samantha Coleman discovers after meeting milliner Annabel Allen, who set up her business two years ago

Opposite: Milliner Annabel Allen set up her business two years ago and now works from her home studio in Bishopston, designing and hand-crafting bespoke hats and headpieces This page, clockwise from top: hats from Annabel’s collection include Ensay, Patricia and Connie

I

t’s no secret that Bristol is the place to be doing it. Setting up a business in the creative industry, that is. In recent years there has been a surge in local people who have taken the leap into making their craft hobby a successful business, all thanks to sheer determination, courage and a true love of what they do – which is so very Bristol.

For Annabel Allen, it was a need to be working with her hands, doing something artistic and finding a job to fit around family life, that led her to set up Annabel Allen Millinery two years ago.

“Bristol was the perfect base for this venture, as people appreciate handmade and unique here,” she says of her business, which was conceived when she and her husband moved to Australia briefly.

“Being on the other side of the world and not knowing anyone, I needed to find a hobby that would help me meet people and also satisfy my desire to be creative,” says Annabel. “That’s when I discovered my love of designing and making hats. I was looking for a hat to wear to a race event, and when I couldn’t find anything on the high street that matched my style, I decided to go on a hat making course and design my own. After that, I couldn’t get enough of making them.

“I came to love hats as an accessory – you can be bolder and riskier with a hat; they make you stand taller and are a great a way to add some vibrancy to an outfit.”

Annabel’s stylish creations caught many an eye and were soon being commissioned by friends, which led her to consider turning her new hobby into a business. Sure enough, with support from friends and family, she did it.

Fast forward three years, and she’s now living in Bishopston with her husband and one-year-old daughter, designing and handcrafting bespoke hats from her home studio. Annabel’s business has been going great guns, and just before Christmas she launched her website – a sleek and luxurious online space to showcase her headwear collections that include hats, fascinators, and hair pieces in a range of seasonal styles, as well as a bridal collection too.

These beautiful and ornate pieces are artistic creations in their own right, with every detail carefully crafted to form an intricate arrangement suited to the wearer.

“So much time and love goes into them,” says Annabel. “I hand-cut flowers out of silk and paint and shape them too. Every part of the hat is hand-sewn, wired and bound – it’s very labour intensive. But that’s what sets my hats apart from the ones you can buy on the high street: I only use the highest quality materials and each design is truly unique. I get my inspiration from the world around me – anything abstract and unusual, especially nature.”

Annabel offers a very personal service, so clients can visit her studio to talk about the sort of hat they would like, and try on different styles to get a better idea of what suits them. “It’s an opportunity to play and have fun,” says Annabel. “Lots of people think they don’t suit hats, but varying shapes, fabric and styles can make such a difference. I’ve had clients come in and say they want one thing and then after trying on all sorts of hats from my collection, they change their mind completely and usually go for a bolder choice, surprising themselves.”

Annabel can make a totally bespoke piece or can alter a hat from her collection to

incorporate a particular colour scheme, fabric or motif. Either way, they are made to measure to fit your head perfectly.

“I’ve never understood the ‘one size fits all’ labelling of hats you buy on the high street,” says Annabel. “You wouldn’t get that with clothes or underwear, so why something you wear on your head? A hat that fits immaculately makes all the difference and can look fabulous. I want to make women feel really good and comfortable in what they are wearing. I would hate to send something out that the client didn’t feel a million dollars in.”

Millinery seems to have been an inevitable choice of creative outlet for Annabel, given her education and interests as she was growing up. “I’ve always had a love of making things, and fashion in particular has been a big part of my life,” she says.

“From an early age I aspired to be a fashion designer. I tried to follow my dream by going to study art and fashion at college, but

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I started to have doubts about whether I’d be able to make it, so I then went to study history of art at university, which I loved. Even after this degree, I still couldn’t shake my desire to become a fashion designer, so I went to London to get some work experience in the industry.”

Annabel enrolled in a tailoring course that was sponsored by Savile Row, where she learnt and excelled in pattern cutting. She went on to work at Temperley London in the cutting room, but found it wasn’t quite the experience she had hoped for: “It was more about perception than the creative process involved, which wasn’t me at all,” she says.

Not one for giving up on her dreams, Annabel became a PA for the Gucci group to try and gain a better idea of what goes on behind the scenes of the fashion industry. “It was a tough job but it taught me so much about the business side of things,” she continues. “There was no room for error and everything was very uniformed and structured. It made me question my career plans, and I realised that I needed to be doing something that was a lot more creative.”

And millinery, as Annabel discovered, is a discipline that allows her to combine her traditional tailoring skills with highly intricate and imaginative design concepts.

“What I am doing now encompasses all these things I’ve been interested in and learned about over the years,” she says. “When I first came to Bristol with the dream of starting my own millinery business, I apprenticed under accomplished theatrical milliner, Ani Stafford-Townsend, at the Milliners’ Guild, who taught me how to balance the business and making side of things. I felt confident and ready to go for it after that, and I haven’t looked back since.

“It’s a job that I love, and can fit around family life too, so I feel very lucky. I can’t wait until my daughter is old enough to wear hats – she’ll end up being my little model. My husband currently holds that job at the moment!” ■ Visit www.annabelallenmillinery.co.uk to see Annabel’s collection of hats and headpieces. Annabel also plans to hire out hats out in the summer, so keep an eye out for all her latest news on social media too.

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Left: Annabel’s Enid design from her bridal collection Below: Her vintage-inspired Florence headpiece

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WIN

TICKETS TO THE FOODIES FESTIVAL

We’ve a pair of VIP and two pairs of standard tickets to Bristol’s fabulous Foodies Festival to be won

F

oodies Festival returns to The Downs in Clifton from 13-15 May and to celebrate, we have a pair of VIP tickets and two pairs of standard tickets to give away.

The UK’s biggest celebration of food and drink, the event has grown from its humble beginnings in Edinburgh in 2005, to attracting over 22,000 visitors to The Downs in May. This year the festival features over 120 artisan producer stalls, an Aga Rangemaster Chefs Theatre with Michelin star and top chefs cooking live, a street food avenue, food and drink masterclasses, the Cake & Bake Theatre, live music and lots of foodie fun.

Expert mixologists and sommeliers, including Neil Phillips and Charles Metcalfe, will host champagne and wine masterclasses, and beer connoisseur and writer Melissa Cole will be on-hand with craft beer tutorials. For the courageous food lovers, with an inclination towards those Crocodile Dundee days, you’d be a fool not to head to the Vietnamese Street Food stand. Take your pick from a freshly coated ‘n’ baked tasty critter – including grasshoppers, caterpillars, mealworms, beetles, scorpions, locusts and ants. If you’re feeling super brave, there’s also a daily Bush Tucker Trial on the Challenge Stage.

Much loved favourites, the Children’s Cookery School and Chilli-Eating Challenge, will also be making an appearance.

To be in with a chance of winning tickets, simply email: competitions@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Please remember to quote your full name, telephone number and postal address. Three winners will then be picked at random after the closing date of 30 April.

For full details visit our website at www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk

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FOOD & Drink

TASTY TITBITS FROM THE CITY’S TOP RESTAURANTS The festival celebrates the wealth of great foodie projects and producers around the city

RAISE YOUR FORKS! Food Connections, the nine-day festival celebrating the wealth of great foodie projects, restaurants and retailers across Bristol, and encouraging people to think about where their food comes from, kicks off on 28 April. Delivering a diverse programme of events, with guest speakers, debates, workshops and an ‘edible education’ outdoor classroom for schools, the event has also inspired a fringe festival with over 100 more community events. “By showcasing projects designed to change the way people eat, and bringing people from every community together through good food, we aim to create change felt long after Food Connections finishes,” says festival manager Aine Morris. “We want to put Bristol firmly on the map, as a city making huge strides towards being able to feed itself sustainably.” Food Connections launches with Radio 4’s Food and Farming Awards, and will also see College Green transformed into a hub of activity, with the ‘Brain Food’ programme; debate on what makes a great restaurant with Bristol Lido’s Freddy Bird, Financial Times food writer Tim Hayward and the Telegraph’s Xanthe Clay; a food-themed spoken word poetry slam; and new comedy show Food Porn; plus everything from celeb chef sessions, foraging masterclasses and food-themed story telling to fermenting workshops, street food and markets galore.

For more, visit: www.bristolfoodconnections.com

YES, CHEF! Next month, two-Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw – whose eponymous Port Isaac restaurant has been rated Britain’s fourth best restaurant in this year’s Good Food Guide – will be cooking a fivecourse Cornish feast in Long Ashton village hall, to celebrate and showcase recipes from his third book, Everyday Seafood. Nathan will also be giving a talk about the book and signing copies. Tickets for the dinner – at 6.15pm on 29 May – cost £49.50 and include five courses, coffee/tea and petits fours. Booking opens 1 April. For more information, visit: www.feastwithachef.co.uk

A TASTE OF THE EXOTIC A Bristol-based entrepreneur has published a new documentary-style cookbook in partnership with local company Sustainable Kitchens. The Locals Cookbook: Sri Lanka features fascinating stories and beautiful photography from chef and photojournalist Jon, who wrote, designed, photographed and self-published all the content, and launched the book at Gallery Twenty Two in Stokes Croft last month. A unique, innovative book, it aims to help the reader not just discover recipes, but unfold the country’s culture through Jon’s journey. "The idea stemmed from my love of travel, surf, food and giving back to a community who had inspired so much in me in the aftermath of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami,” said Jon, who is making sure 10% of his profits go to supporting them. For more info, visit: www.thelocalscookbook.com

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NEW IN TOWN You might have spotted a couple of fresh faces on the foodie block very recently – we’re talking Prince Street Social and King Street Brewhouse, located on (you guessed it) Prince Street and King Street respectively. The new babies of The City Pub Company, King Street Brewhouse offers all-day dining showcasing the best local ingredients available, and plenty of real ales, craft beers and cider, plus its own micro-brewery, while the offering at Prince Street Social comprises of a British brasserie complemented by a great wine, beer and cocktail collection. To book a table, visit: www.kingstreetbrewhouse.co.uk; www.princestreetsocial.com

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A quality local independent Italian that's family run and well established.

WWW.PIAZZADIROMA.CO.UK 178 WHITELADIES ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2XU OPEN 6PM TO 11PM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY (AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS)

T: 0117 973 4183

FROM A ROMANTIC MEAL TO A PARTY BOOKING, YOU WILL BE WELL LOOKED AFTER

THE MENU

SPECIAL OFFERS PICTURES & REVIEWS

ON OUR FACEBOOK &WEBSITE

15% off your food bill (eat in or takeaway) You must have the voucher with you, voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher must be presented before ordering drinks or food, only one voucher per group or table, management reserves the right to modify or cancel this offer at any time, applies to main menu only not specials board, please let us know that you are using the voucher at the time of booking to avoid disappointment.

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BRISTOL UPDATES BITE-SIZED BUSINESS NEWS FROM ACROSS THE CITY

GREEN GIANT

A growing reputation...

A University of Bristol horticulturist has been presented with one of the Royal Horticultural Society’s highest awards.

Nick Wray, curator of the university’s botanic garden, was recognised for work at the garden spanning more than 30 years, and given the Associate of Honour award. “I am delighted and honoured to accept,” he said. “I had always wanted to work with plants even as a teenager and I have been particularly fortunate in being able to work with some inspirational people throughout my working life. I enjoy exciting people about plants; their beauty, diversity and place in a complex web of living things.

Many of the solutions to the problems facing the modern world are to be found in the world of plants.” www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden

Nick Wray was recognised for decades of botanical work

FAIR PLAY!

WADING IN TO HELP

YOUNG ACHIEVER

Patients at St Peter’s Hospice in Bristol had a special visit from Emmerdale star Fiona Wade recently. “St Peter’s Hospice is very close to my heart, as my father passed away from oesophageal cancer very suddenly and one of my family members was recently cared for by the hospice,” said Fiona. “I understand how important places like this are to give comfort, respite and a nice environment to those in their last stages of life.” Head of supporter relations at St Peter’s Hospice, John Flanagan, added: “It was wonderful to have Fiona visit us in Bristol. Visits like this really brighten the patients’ day and everyone thoroughly enjoyed meeting and chatting to her.” www.stpetershospice.org

Amy Bracey, a senior surveyor at Hartnell Taylor Cook and 27-year-old Bedminster resident who volunteers as a business advisor for a local secondary school’s Young Enterprise Team, won the surveying category in the Duke of Gloucester's Young Achievers Scheme last month. "The Scheme has enabled me to improve my leadership and support roles while also promoting my industry to the students,” explained Amy, who also volunteers via the Bristol Drugs Project.

Judges praised her great professional progression, motivation and dedication to giving back to the community. For further information, visit: www.constructionyouth.org.uk

PSSST! Simplyhealth is rebranding its retail business Independent Living to become The Unlimited Company, and launching its first new-look store at 63 Shirehampton Road in Stoke Bishop. It will offer daily aids and mobility products to help people live more independently. “We want to challenge the perceptions of health, age and disability and help customers remain active and lead a limitless lifestyle,” said Matthew Main, managing director. “That’s why we chose a name that captures our attitude towards what’s possible.”

For more information: shop.simplyhealth.co.uk; 0800 1380764

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The South West Fairtrade Business Awards took place at the At-Bristol Science Centre recently, hosted by ethical beauty and wellbeing expert, Liz Earle MBE – who has just launched a range of Fairtrade gold jewellery.

Winners, who included Bristol-based Greenhouse Bed and Breakfast, Minuteman Press and Full of Beans café at UWE, received a trophy designed by Bristol Blue Glass, while Sophie Luxon of Computershare in Bristol was named Best Fairtrade Advocate, for running Fairtrade stalls at her place of work and persuading her company and neighbouring companies to switch to using Fairtrade products. www.bristolfairtrade.org.uk

Host Liz Earle with her Fairtrade collection at John Titcombe

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Divorce does not have to be a financial minefield

By Clare Webb, Sharp Family Law - Bristol and Bath Divorce Solicitors. Producing Resolution not Prolonging Conflict

F

or many couples that make the decision to divorce, the financial practicalities of ending a relationship are almost as painful as the emotional impact.

However, divorce, with all its complexities and emotional upheavals, does not have to be a financial minefield.

Here are three points to help you navigate through this period:

prioritize your goals, educate you on your options and assure you have the information needed to make important decisions.

An experienced family lawyer will look at all aspects of your life, including children, property, business valuation, pensions, etc. to make sure you have the right resources and professionals to enable you to successfully move forward after your divorce.

outcome for separating and divorcing clients.

We will guide you safely through the potential financial minefield towards a constructive outcome that helps you and your family move on with life For further information please call Clare Webb on 01225 448 955 or email clare@sharpfamilylaw.com.

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Step 1: Know your figures.

Now is the time to be organised. Organisation of your paperwork will help you keep on top of often complex financial discussions.

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focus on what is most important to you, not just today but also in the future

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• What is the value of your pension fund?

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Gathering this information carefully and the papers to support it will help you make wellinformed decisions about your future.

Step 2: Take appropriate advice.

Seek appropriate legal guidance early. A good family lawyer will give you confidence about your future and support you through this difficult transition. Your lawyer will help you

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At a time when you are feeling your most financially insecure and vulnerable, your instinct may be to withdraw, protect yourself and make hasty decisions that are not in your long term best interest. It is essential at this time to focus on what is most important to you, not just today but also in the future.

Listen to the advice provided by the team of professionals around you and be prepared to let go of those issues that they suggest you should.

Do not throw good money after bad by letting your emotions get the best of you. Do make sure that you take proportionate and measured steps to secure your finances for your future.

The specialist solicitors at Sharp Family Law are dedicated to finding the most secure, long-term

Clare Webb

sharp F A M I LY L A W Sharp Family Law: Helping clients to reach solutions Broad Quay House, Prince St, Bristol, BS1 4DJ email: info@sharpfamilylaw.com m: 07766 107527 t: 01225 448955 website: www.sharpfamilylaw.com

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Supporting disabled children, young people and their families.

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

WRITTEN IN THE STARS Jenny Hayes visits At-Bristol Science Centre, and tries to tame Leo the lion...

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SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY

Main image: M66 © ESO This page, top to bottom: Hercules fighting the Nemean lion attrib. Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640); The Leo Triplet with M65, © Hewholooks

L

eo the lion leaps into our skies this month, taking his place as the mighty king of the heavens throughout spring. Containing some of the brightest stars visible from Earth, Leo is one of the earliest recognised constellations, first documented by the Mesopotamians back in 4000BCE. It wasn’t until the second century, when the constellation was spotted by Greek astronomer Ptolemy, that Leo gained his crown as the most fearsome creature in the sky. To the ancient Greeks, the pattern of the stars resembled a lion lying low and ready to pounce, so they believed it to be the celestial depiction of the ferocious Nemean lion who was slain by Hercules in the first of his 12 labours.

“Animal cruelty!” I hear you cry, and to be honest, you may not revise your opinion as the full story unfolds, but rest assured all events are fictional and no animals were harmed in the making of the myth.

So, without further ado, let’s picture the scene. Hercules, one of Greek mythology’s most virtuous heroes, was tasked by the king of Eurystheus to set out on a quest to kill the Nemean lion, a vicious shapeshifter who transformed himself into a beautiful maiden in order to lure men into his lair and devour them. It was a big ask, but fortunately half man, half god Hercules was equipped with both brains and brawn. When the lion was asleep, he crept into the cave armed with his bow and arrow, took aim at the beast’s heart, and let the arrow fly.

But far from sinking into its mark, the arrow bounced off the beast’s pelt, serving no greater purpose than to awaken the terrifying creature. It leapt at Hercules, who battled courageously with his bare hands until the lion lay limp and dead in his arms.

Having defeated the monster with brute strength, Hercules’ nimble brain kicked into gear and he swiped the armoured pelt and vicious claws to use as his own, somewhat grisly, weapons.

In tribute to this magnificent deed, and as a reminder of his reign of terror, the Nemean lion is immortalised in the sky as Leo. He is easy to spot this month – just look out for the distinctive asterism that forms his mane and shoulders. This is known as the Sickle, but to modern observers it’s more recognisable as a backward question mark, at the base of which sits Regulus, the heart of the lion and the brightest star in the constellation.

Regulus is also one of the most visible objects in the night sky for us on Earth, with an apparent magnitude of +1.36. But to call it a star is not wholly accurate, because it actually comprises four stars organised into two binary pairs. The brightest star, and the only one visible to the naked eye from Earth, is Regulus A. This is a hot, blue-white main sequence star that orbits around a common centre of mass with its companion star, which scientists

Look out for... ● Jupiter is in opposition this month, and well placed for observation within Leo. It will be visible for much of the night throughout April, reaching its highest and most visible position in the sky between midnight and 3am. ● On Friday 8 April, when you look out to admire the beautiful new moon, you should also be able to spot Mercury shining brightly to the right of it.

If you’re an early bird, you’ll also have the chance to see Venus peeping over the horizon just before sunrise in the first half of the month.

have not yet directly observed but is believed to be a white dwarf.

Regulus B and C, the second binary pair, are also thought to comprise a brighter main sequence star and a dwarf.

As well as this notable star system, many bright galaxies can be observed within Leo. Among them are the spiral galaxies of M65, M66 and NGC 3628, which all lie about 35 million light years away from Earth and together make up the famous Leo Triplet. M65 and M66 were first documented by Charles Messier in 1780, and NGC 3628 was spotted just four years later by William Herschel.

The most noteworthy of these galaxies is M66, among whose sweeping arms are bright star clusters that have experienced an unusually high rate of four supernova explosions since 1973. This is an extremely high number to occur within one galaxy, and scientists are still puzzling over the reasons for their occurrence.

No doubt a reason will be found at some point in the not too distant future, but for the moment it’s rather nice to know that when we look up at the constellation of Leo this month, there lies within one of the real wonders of the universe. n With huge thanks to Lee Pullen for sharing his knowledge and time. If you’d like to learn more about Leo and the other constellations you can spot in the sky this month, you can book tickets for Spring Stargazing in At-Bristol’s 3D Planetarium; www.at-bristol.org.uk

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WHAT’S ON | FOR KIDS

FAMILY FUN Keep all ages entertained with the help of our guide to what’s on around the city

Aquarium Eggs-travaganza, Bristol Aquarium, until 10 April, 10am-5pm Springtime signals new life and new beginnings, so why not pay Bristol Aquarium a visit and discover the latest arrival of new additions to the oceanic family? There’s plenty to see in the Nursery Zone and the Sunken Shipwreck area is always a hit. There’s even a trail quiz with exciting prizes to be claimed. For more information: www.bristolaquarium.co.uk

Hop To It, Bristol Zoo, until 10 April Follow the clues on this adventure tour around Bristol Zoo; discover the movements of all kinds of creatures (great and small); and get creative with magic and balloon shaping.

Alternatively, you might like to get up close and personal with a range of animal encounters.

There will be face painting for children (and the young at heart) too. Tickets £5, available online: www.bristolzoo.org.uk

Storytelling: Mud, Slugs & Scarecrows, At-Bristol, until 10 April Ursa and Leo like nothing more than to watch the fruits of their labours blossom and flourish into beautiful, colourful gardens. Join them as they embark on a voyage of horticultural discovery, and teach you to plant your own seeds. Stories last for 15 minutes and are suitable for families with very young children.

Free with every general admission ticket. For more information and to book, visit: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Enchanted Easter, The Wild Place Project, until 10 April Take a walk through the fairy door trail and discover the magical kingdom beyond. Stop off at the mysterious yurt for storytelling and get

into the spirit with some animal-themed face painting. Tickets £7.20 (adult), £5.63 (child) – available online at: www.wildplace.org.uk

Space Explorers, At-Bristol, until 10 April, 11.45am & 2pm Leave behind the Earthlings as you board a rocket ship and zoom through the solar system.

You’ll be stunned by the beauty of the Milky Way and inspired by the natural patterns floating in outer space. The 2D shows last for 30 minutes and are suitable for children under six. Tickets £2 (members £1), free for under threes. For more information: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Holiday family fun, M Shed, until 31 May, 11am-3pm There’s something for everybody in this fun family event designed for children aged three to 10 years. Explore and feel inspired with elaborate masks, and dive into the vibrant exhibits on display. Pay what you feel. For more information: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk

Nature Lab, At-Bristol, until 29 June, 10am-5pm There’s nothing more intriguing than a wander through the natural world. Get inside the mind of the humble bumble bee, find out about their feeding habits and become a nature detective.

Science has never been more interesting!

Admission free with a general admission ticket.

For more information and to book: www.at-bristol.org.uk

Bristol Old Vic/Arnolfini Young Company Easter School, Arnolfini, 4 – 6 April, 10am & 3pm Mysteries of the unexplained inspired by John

Akomfrah’s Vertigo Sea exhibition. Join in on this storytelling adventure and discover the depths of the ocean in all its glory. Featuring myths, legends and giants, this multidisciplinary Easter course is suited to young people aged seven to 11. Directed by Bristol Old Vic’s Angela Athay-Hunt, who will guide students through a wide range of devising techniques, movement, music and storytelling.

Tickets £90 for the full course. To book: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Sea Hear Storytelling, ss Great Britain, 5 April, 11am Visit the Brunel Institute with your little ones, and be absorbed in a morning of storytelling with Sarah Mooney. These free sessions will captivate imaginations as you’re invited into the world of make believe, featuring original tales, classic legends and interactive stories from the sea. For more information and to book: www.ssgreatbritain.org

Boxy & Sticky, Bristol Old Vic, 7 – 9 April, 11am & 3pm Sarah Argent’s highly interactive show brings together crafty capers, soft play, storytelling and poetic tales. Stick around for the ending, where you’ll get the opportunity to throw yourself into some serious fun-making. Tickets: £10 (adults), £7 (concessions). Suitable for age three and up.

For more information and to book: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Free family fun, Bristol Old Vic, 8 April, 10am-3pm If you’ve ever felt the urge to cover your hands in glue ‘n’ glitter and sparkle your way through the day, then look no further than Bristol Old Vic’s free family fun event. Join Artrageous and

Head to Bristol Zoo for a close encounter

Enjoy a free Sea Hear Storytelling session at the ss Great Britain

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WHAT’S ON | FOR KIDS Children’s Scrapstore for a busy day of arts, crafts and soft play at Coopers’ Gallery. There will also be light refreshments available. Visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk

Raggedy coat making, Arnolfini, 9 April, 1pm-5pm Personalise your own raggedy coat in this workshop held by writer-in-residence Cleo Lake.

You will be guided through the process of creating your own customised fashion brand, with the chance to model your creations. You will need to bring your own t-shirt to decorate.

Suitable for age seven and up. Free admission.

For more information: www.arnolfini.org.uk

The Amazing Bubble Man, Tobacco Factory Theatre, 10 April, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3pm

Enjoy giant leaf hunts and exciting games for all the family. Hot drink included. Booking essential. Suitable for under 5s. Tickets £3 (adults), £7 (children). For more information, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Enchanted Easter runs until 10 April at Wild Place Project

Spring Detectives, Avon Gorge, 24 April, 1.30pm-3.30pm Breathe in the fresh air on this special spring walk taken by Geraldine Taylor and Mandy Leivers. This is the perfect opportunity to introduce your children to the world of wildlife, as you’re invited to observe and learn all about the animals living on The Downs, before getting involved and creating your very own spring world in a jar. Tickets £4, free for under 5s. For more information and to book your tickets, visit: www.bristolzoo.org.uk

Louis Pearl has been creating bubble spectaculars for well over three decades – in fact, he has created over three million bubbles in his career. This sell-out Edinburgh Fringe show featuring Jet Black Pearl on accordion promises to captivate you with tricks, science and a big helping of fun. Both spellbinding and educational. Tickets £9 online at www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Wild Outdoors, Windmill Hill City Farm, 16 April, 12pm-4pm Head to Bedminster’s community farm and entertain the kids with a great bug hunt. After you’ve worked up an appetite, sample locally sourced produce freshly chargrilled on the barbecue and soak up the atmosphere and live music. Tickets £3 for adults, free for children.

To book, call 0117 9633252

TYNTEtots: Jack & the Beanstalk, Tyntesfield Gardens, 20 April A Jack and the Beanstalk-themed springtime walk designed especially for the younger ones.

Board a rocket ship and zoom through the At-Bristol solar system

Editor’s picks...

Step inside The Story Cellar at Bristol Old Vic

The Story Cellar, Bristol Old Vic, 8 April, 12.30pm & 1.45pm In every vault lies a treasure trove of hidden secrets – in this particular hideaway is a magical stash of ingredients just waiting to be whipped into the most spellbinding story. Bring your own ideas as you’re invited to create a recipe of words, costumes, puppetry and games galore.

Tickets £4. For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk Hello! The Lawrence Weston and Avonmouth Community Weekend, At-Bristol, 23 – 24 April Hello! Community Weekends are a chance for families and community groups to discover AtBristol for free. All ages are welcome to join in with a range of interactive activities including exploring the Nature Lab; cooking tasty treats in the Spring Kitchen; watching exciting new family science show Good Vibrations; and seeing over 250 hands-on exhibits. Limited tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. Part of At-Bristol’s community engagement programme. For more information, visit: www.at-bristol.org.uk/community

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Mum, voiceover artist and BBC Radio Bristol presenter, Faye Dicker, meets the Bristol businesses that make family life easier...

W

hen teachers Sophie and Rob had their first child in 2012, it earmarked a gear change for them in more ways than one. Not only did they now have to juggle family life around teaching, but for Rob, it prompted him to put some ideas into practice. As a secondary school art teacher with a love of social history, he had often enjoyed teaching his students graffiti lessons. Not just the practice of it – but also as a part of Bristol’s rich social history. Now was the time, he thought, to put those ideas into practice and start teaching them as workshops outside of school.

In September 2012, Graft was born – workshops for budding graffiti artists from age eight upwards. Workshops are held in The Island, the former Bridewell Street Police Station. It’s an irony appreciated by both Rob and Sophie, that their students are being taught graffiti in cells former street artists had probably been locked up in. Typically workshops last three hours, beginning with a mini tour of some of the graffiti around Bristol, before getting hands-on with participants having a go themselves. They start by practicing their tag, before trying spray cans on boards, then finally having a go on walls. Needless to say, there’s a lot of white washing involved when it comes to prepping the classes!

And it doesn’t stop there, as Rob and Sophie also take commissions for murals – which has had an incredible response. A recent community project in St Paul’s took its inspiration from patterns used in different cultures, sampled from local residents’ crockery and textiles. Rob and Sophie have also worked on commissions in people’s homes and gardens, painting murals based on images and designs that they like.

You can spot the vibrant murals all over the city, including the whole side of a house in Totterdown, which is jaw-dropping. It’s hard to believe how someone can even conceive an art project that large, let alone practice it.

There’s been a more recent uptake in schools as well, particularly with forest themed murals in primary schools. It’s a theme proving very popular, as increasingly schools are engaging with the natural environment. A project at Chewton Mendip Primary saw an entire wall covered in woodland animals – it’s a huge difference from the playtimes that I remember as a child of the 80s.

It seems the sky is the limit when it comes to Graft, and there is no stopping them. Last year they painted canvases for a window display at H&M on behalf of the London School of Fashion; appeared on the BBC’s Home Away From Home programme, giving a graffiti masterclass to their house swappers; and even ran a one-to-one workshop for Professor Alice Roberts. Not to mention painting a mural on the Trunki head office building in the heart of Bristol, as well as continuing to run their workshops.

I can’t say graffiti is something I’ve turned my hand to – or that my GSCE art classes were half as interesting as Rob’s, but if there was an opportunity to get a group together and try something different, then I’m definitely up for it. My two budding artists have a little way to go before they’re old enough to have a go with a spray can, but I dare say they’ll be making their mark on the world in no time. Until then, I’ll leave the Graft classes in the safe hands of the experts and we’ll just enjoy taking in their colourful skylines. n www.freelancemum.co.uk 60 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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By Caroline Pascoe, Headmistress of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls

EXCELLENT IN EVERY WAY Last month, we were finally able to announce the exciting news – that Estyn (Wales’ version of Ofsted) had rated our school as “excellent” in every aspect of its work.

According to inspectors who visited in December, HMSG and its preparatory school, Inglefield House, are achieving “extremely high” standards which are “well above expectations”.

I am so proud of the teaching and support staff who consistently put their all into providing a life-changing education and a truly inspirational environment for girls to thrive in.

It’s thanks to their tireless efforts and innovative thinking that we have achieved the highest possible praise from the country’s inspectorate.

Estyn recognised “many strengths, including significant examples of sectorleading practice.”

They praised our pupils’ performances in public exams as “outstanding”, with around 75 per cent of all GCSEs being graded at A* or A, in comparison with the national average of around 20 per cent.

At A level, the sixth form’s performance over the last three years was reported to be “extremely high”, with 50 per cent of all girls achieving A*s or As and approximately 80 per cent of grades being A* to B. Under the care, support and guidance banner, inspectors reported that HMSG “promotes pupils’ spiritual, moral and cultural development exceptionally well through the curriculum.”

This was in part down to our ground-breaking personal and social education programme, Confidence for Life, which captures girls’ enthusiasm and engages them well in considering spiritual, moral and social issues.

Inspectors also noted the “highly effective partnerships” within the Haberdashers’ Monmouth family of schools, along with HMSG’s “exceptional engagement with community organisations and local businesses.”

The Monmouth Literary Festival, a joint schools’ collaboration between HMSG, Monmouth School and Monmouth Comprehensive, was applauded by Estyn for giving the girls involved an opportunity “to develop their social and life skills extremely well.”

HMSG is one of only a handful of schools in Wales to achieve “excellent” across the board in its Estyn inspection under the new framework, introduced in 2010.

Our sibling, Monmouth School, achieved the same result in 2014. *The Schools have an established bus route covering the Thornbury area.

For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG.

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Do you want to become a better leader?

Part-time MSc Strategy, Change and Leadership

Scholarships now available*

Philosophy for living

Free 4 week course starts April 2016 The aim of philosophy is to set people free; free from pressure and free from worry; free to grow, free to be themselves. So it seems fitting that a philosophy course should be free. This four session mini-course, called Philosophy for Living , looks at life and its meaning, the world and its causes and applying mindfulness to every moment. Based on the classic philosophies of East and West, it invites us to see life as a place to test the words of the wise. Feel free to join us.

For those who wish to extend this introduction, a further 6 week course follows on immediately, cost £36 (concessions available).

BATH When? Tuesdays at 7.15pm starting 26th April 2016 Where? 30 Milsom St, Bath, BA1 1DG

BRISTOL When? Wednesday at 7.15pm starting 27th April 2016 Where? Friends Meeting House, Champion Square, Bristol BS2 9DB

If you would like to know more or to register please contact: Email: bathandbristolphilosophy@gmail.com Or call: 07873 230651 Bath and Bristol School of Philosophy: branch of The Fellowship of the School of Economic Science.

Registered Educational Charity 313115

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Designed for busy managers to fit around a demanding management role, this part-time programme will help you to: • enhance your impact as a leader • understand organisational complexity and issues affecting success • improve your ability to manage change and uncertainty • make better choices about growth and strategic direction

Email Cheralyn Dark at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk or Tel: 0117 954 6694 for details www.bristol.ac.uk/efm/courses/postgraduate/programmes/strat-change-leadership.html

Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 20 April between 6-7.30pm.

To register, please email Cheralyn at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk

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EDUCATIONNEWS UPDATES FROM THE CITY’S SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

Bright-eyed

PICTURE OF HEALTH

and bushy-tailed!

© Mark Simmons

THE ART OF LIFE

IN THE GOOD BOOKS

Red Maids’ School is hosting an exciting evening event with actress and TV presenter Clemency Burton-Hill on 13 April. Clemency, who is a novelist, mother and renowned musician, has also worked as a journalist on Vogue and The Economist; acted in Poirot, Midsomer Murders and Hustle; and presented documentaries for both radio and television. As if all that wasn’t enough, she is also a Cambridge double-first graduate.

She will speak about how her love of the arts has shaped her career and how having an interest in your free time can enrich your life. Tickets £3/£5; www.ticketsource.co.uk/theredmaidsschool

Pupils at Elmlea Junior School have a new library – with exciting design and state-of-theart equipment, thanks to the generosity of parent Richard Blunden. As MD of Bristol business Moduflex, which specialises in the design and manufacture of space-saving storage systems, library shelving and office furniture, Richard put his company’s resources at the school’s disposal. “Our design team thought very carefully about how to make the library attractive and engaging for children,” he said. “The library has its own learning tree and woodland furniture, and a glass wall opening on to a reading deck. Whenever the weather is right, children can now read in the fresh air.” www.elmleaj.bristol.sch.uk

Public Health Bristol launched The Big Book of Bristol Healthy Schools recently, with the aim of improving the wellbeing of city children. The book showcases the work of nine schools that have achieved Healthy School status – the criteria include physical activity, personal safety, healthy eating, building positive relationships and managing worries.

“The importance of getting children to adopt healthy habits when they’re young cannot be underestimated,” said Becky Pollard, director of public health at Bristol City Council. “This is a wellformed model for improving the overall health and wellbeing of children and we’re working holistically with schools to ensure the best outcomes for pupils.”

So far, the schools have reported improvements such as kids eating more fruit and vegetables; less food waste and fewer behaviour issues – one saw 28% fewer playground incidents while another saw a 56% increase in children being physically active during lunchtime.

To request a copy of the book, contact: healthyschools@bristol.gov.uk

BRIGHT SPARKS Over 1,000 Bristol university students took part in a 10-hour exercise-a-thon to raise money for the city’s hospitals last month. The Ignit10n event is all about local students harnessing their sporting prowess to raise money for Above & Beyond’s £6 million Golden Gift Appeal, which will help transform Bristol cancer centre, the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre and the Bristol Royal Infirmary into the very best hospitals around. So far, they’ve raised over £7,000 and funds are still coming in! www.facebook.com/ignit10nBristol

Having fun at Clifton High Nursery School

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CITY | BEAUTY

LANCÔME LA BASE À PAUPIÈRES PRO EYE SHADOW BASE, £21

The eyes

Lancôme has created a new bare-skin effect eye base to enhance and set eye shadow for all-day wear. It makes the application of eye shadow easier and prevents it from creasing, smearing or fading

HAVE IT THE EYE SMUDGE BRUSH

BY RODIAL, £24

From dramatic and smokey to softer and neutral, eye make-up can have a real impact on your look. Emma Hollingworth, beauty manager at Harvey Nichols Bristol, handpicks a selection of beauty products including brushes, brow sculptors, tweezers and colour palettes – ready and waiting to help perfect those peepers...

This brush features a firm construction and thin fan shape to make it the ideal partner for a smokey eye. Use it to blend along the lash line or to create sharper definition

All products are available from Harvey Nichols Bristol or via Collect in Store from www.harveynichols.com

Pop, play and provoke with this limited edition NARS palette boasting a smörgåsbord of textures including matte, shimmer, and wet-to-dry

Eyeko's easy-toapply, skinny liquid eyeliner pen allows you to create a thick feline flick or fine defined lines to accentuate your eyes. With its unique, long-lasting formula, you’ll enjoy intense colour with a smudge-proof finish

It naturally illuminates the skin, as fruit stem cell extracts deliver deep-down moisture and help to preserve skin's suppleness and elasticity

SHU UEMURA SPECIALIST SLANT TWEEZERS, £20

BLINC MASCARA AMPLIFIED, £21.50

These fab tweezers use a precision slant tip for accuracy in hair removal and are also useful for handling false eyelashes

BENEFIT TINTED PRIMER, £18.50

RODIAL INSTAGLAM HIGHLIGHTER, £25

Designed with dual use in mind, this can be worn as a mascara primer to dramatically boost length and separation, or alone to tint and define lashes for a feathery, more natural look

A yellow-toned, highlighting formula designed to add definition to the skin wherever needed. Perfect to apply over make-up to highlight cheekbones, the cupid's bow, the corner of the eyes and the bridge of the nose

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A stroke of carbon colour intensity with a luminous shine finish – the Kajal Stilo is like nothing you’ve seen before. The first of its kind to combine colour, light and long-wear credentials, its creamy texture melts to the skin for instant impact, and blends easily and evenly

EYEKO SKINNY LIQUID EYELINER, £12

EVE LOM LIGHT ILLUSION CONCEALER, £30

NARS L'AMOUR TOUJOURS PALETTE, £55

LAURA MERCIER KAJAL STILO, £22

After almost a decade in development, blinc's high performance Mascara Amplified coats the lashes with a glossy, volumising and extending formula for a truly enhanced flutter. Here’s the science bit: the copolymer-based formulation forms tiny water resistant ‘tubes’ around the lash to make them appear darker and longer

EYEKO COSMETICS CASE, £20 Eyeko's coated cotton canvas make-up bag is capacious enough to hold all your beauty essentials, making it the ideal travel tote

TOM FORD BROW SCULPTOR, £35 To Tom Ford, the eyebrows are one of the most important elements of the face. A perfectly groomed and shaped brow is the most powerful, non-invasive way to define and enhance your features. The unique calligraphy tip of his brow sculptor allows for a tailor-made stroke

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“I can’t believe it was so quick and easy...

I only wish I’d had done it sooner” Cosmedics Skin Clinics’ doctors and surgeons have treated literally thousands of patients for common skin lesions and blemishes over the years and wishing they’d done it sooner is a very typical reaction.

Advanced Treatments For Skin Blemishes: • Latest skin treatment techniques – face & body • Pain-free treatment – and minimal scarring methods • Mr Daniel Thio and Dr Sarah Thio - qualified and experienced team

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10 Years’ Experience Established 2003, we offer over 10 years’ experience in offering the very best in aesthetic, surgery, dermatology and beauty treatments.

Cosmedics Skin Clinics, Litfield House Medical Centre, 1 Litfield Place, Clifton Down, Bristol, BS8 3LS Telephone: 020 7386 0464 • Email: info@cosmedics.co.uk • Website: www.cosmedics.co.uk THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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Gluten Sensitivity – Fact or Fiction?

Is Gluten Sensitivity all in the mind? Why do some people react to gluten, when we have been eating grains for 10,000 years?

Marika Walker, a Nutritional Therapist who graduated from CNM (College of Naturopathic Medicine) looks at the clues.

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luten, found in many staple foods, is a substance that gives elasticity to dough. Until recently, a strict gluten free diet was only of interest to people with celiac disease, an autoimmune disease in which proteins from grains (such as wheat, rye and barley) damage the small intestine. However, more people are now finding that they feel better on a gluten free diet. So, is this a psychological ‘placebo effect’, or do people actually benefit physically from a gluten free diet?

Research has now confirmed that gluten sensitivity does exist. Some experts say that gluten sensitivity is much more common than celiac disease. In celiac disease the intestine is damaged, but in gluten sensitivity, it is not.

Symptoms for both can be similar (including stomach aches and pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, IBS) so it is important to get tested.

Symptoms of gluten sensitivity can affect any organ or tissue in your body, and can include fatigue, anaemia, tingling in hands and feet, muscular and joint pains.

Why are more people now reacting to gluten, when we have been eating grains for 10,000 years? First of all, to make those lovely fluffy white breads, modern grain has been cultivated so that it contains much more gluten than it did in the past.

Secondly, our diets have changed significantly in the

past few decades. We now eat gluten in most meals, unlike in the past. Wheat flour is now used in a vast range of modern, mass-produced ‘ready-made’ meals and sauces, (even your mustard can have it). So we are consuming far greater quantities of gluten, more frequently, than our ancestors did.

When our bodies digest gluten, the lining of the intestine is temporarily damaged. This makes it permeable to gluten proteins (hence ‘leaky gut’), which is the mechanism behind both gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. For most people this inflammation is healed relatively quickly after eating but for some it takes much longer.

Nowadays there are also other aggravating factors at play which can confuse the picture about whether gluten is to blame, including modern additions to the food chain, such as pesticides and GM (genetically modified) foods, which have been linked to ‘leaky gut’. You may have seen the July 2015 report from the Soil Association showing that spraying of the herbicide Glyphosate on wheat crops in the UK has increased by 400% over the last 20 years. To ensure there are no pesticide residues or genetically modified substances, which may affect your gut health, choose organic food.

If you feel that you suffer from symptoms that may be caused by gluten, firstly, get tested for celiac disease. Then you can try going gluten free for a minimum of 4 weeks, and re-introduce gluten to see the difference in how you feel. Take good care of your general gut health, as the gut is the basis for your overall health. Feed the good bacteria in your intestine by eating plenty of organic vegetables and fruit every day. Also, introduce fermented foods, such as sauerkraut

and probiotic yogurts.

Avoid damaging your intestinal lining with unnecessary antibiotics, drugs or alcohol.

Marika Walker

CNM is the UK’s leading training provider in a range of natural therapies.

Attend a FREE Open Evening

to find out about part time training with CNM Bristol for a career in Naturopathic Nutrition or Naturopathic Acupuncture.

Thursday 14th April 7pm-9pm Don’t miss the following international speakers in association with CNM: Dr Michael Greger on preventing disease, 29th April Dr Jayne Donegan on vaccination, Geoff Don 19th May Dr Marilyn Glenville on rebalancing hormones, 23rd May Brian Clement on foods to heal, 10th June Please book on line, at

www.naturopathy-uk.com 01342 410 505

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BEAT THE BLOAT We all know that feeling ladies. You set down your knife and fork and within hours your stomach starts to swell, you feel gassy, full and not to mention uncomfortable.

I

t’s common to just shrug this off however, as Emma Dawson, Nutritional Therapist at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital, The Chesterfield, explains it could be something underlying that may require careful management.

“Bloating around the middle is a common complaint for many women in Bristol, not only because of the pain it can cause but also the frustration of having a protruding stomach, despite not overindulging”, said Emma.

“Unexplained bloating may indicate an imbalance in the gut or an intolerance to a certain food group, so I would always advise women to seek professional advice to rule these out.

“Our guts are necessary for absorption, energy, repair and strength as well as to process toxins, to feel happy and relaxed and to ensure the thousands of daily chemical processes can happen. Containing over 70% of the immune

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system, the gut protects us from absorbing harmful bacteria, undigested foods or other particles that we may have unwittingly eaten or swallowed.”

seeing a nutritional therapist may help. We may consider supplementary support for digestion as well as food changes to support the gut”, said Emma.

Eating habits

Gut microbiota or bacteria:

We’re all guilty of it but when we’re pushed for time in the workplace we often opt to eat at our desks, in a hurry or on the go. This stimulates our stress hormones, impacting on the cephalic phase of digestion when we release saliva and digestive enzymes in anticipation for the food.

When we’re not taking the time to chew our food properly we swallow bigger food particles putting our digestive system under strain.

“Antacids are commonly used for indigestion to neutralise the stomach acid in your gut however this acid plays a vital role in the digestion of food and in our immune system. If you experience indigestion on a regular basis,

Bacteria in the gut play important roles in moderating vital functions including digesting and absorbing nutrients, protecting our gut lining and keeping pathogenic (disease bringing) bacteria and parasites at bay.

Alterations in gut bacteria including a poor diet, use of antibiotics, lack of foods that feed healthy bacteria and an overload of sugar and processed foods, are some factors that may affect gut bacteria. Indicators of a bacterial imbalance include bloating, thrush, cystitis, loose bowel movements, constipation, and often, foul smelling flatulence.

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Undigested and mal-absorbed foods: If foods are not digested and absorbed properly they can be fermented by bacteria which produce gas and lead to bloating. This can cause further problems such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea and/or constipation. This vicious circle means we struggle to absorb the nutrients needed to help us digest, resulting in swelling.

FODMAPs Over the last 4 years, research by the Monash University in Australia has linked dietary sugars called FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligo-DiMonosaccharides and Polyols) to IBS type symptoms including abdominal pain, excessive wind, diarrhoea and/or constipation and bloating. This is because FODMAPs may be poorly absorbed in the upper gut and fermented by bacteria to produce gases including methane and hydrogen. An overgrowth of these bacteria is referred to as SIBO (Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) and is positively linked to gut bloating.

Emma explained: “I advise people to see a dietician or nutritional therapist who can arrange a test for malabsorption and support you to design an effective and safe protocol. I have found success with many clients that I have taken through the FODMAP protocol.

Interestingly high FODMAP foods include wheat, rye and cow’s milk so people frequently self-diagnose a wheat or lactose intolerance when they may actually benefit from a low FODMAP protocol.”

Leaky gut Our gut absorbs nutrients through the walls of the small intestine into the bloodstream and a leaky gut or intestinal permeability may occur when this system is put under stress. This stress can be caused by treats such as coffee, alcohol, sugar and sweets, as well as convenience foods and medication such as painkillers and antibiotics.

“These stresses can cause the gut lining to be damaged, letting in undigested food molecules and other particles, resulting in inflammation and further damage. Undigested food particles may trigger the immune system to develop antibodies against these foods, leading to intolerances and further exasperating the bloating and inflammation,” explained Emma.

coeliac do not remove it from your diet but instead make an appointment to see your GP, who will be able to organise for a blood test to check for antibodies. If they’re present you may be referred to a gastroenterologist for a biopsy.”

Emma Dawson

Gluten sensitivity Glutens are complex proteins to break down which many people may not fully digest, leaving them in the gut to cause fermentation and irritation, and potentially trigger leaky gut.

There is evidence that gluten stimulates a chemical in the gut called zonulin which may cause the gut wall to leak, letting undigested foods and other particles into our systems causing inflammation.

“This is emphasised by the amount of gluten in wheat that the average person consumes on a daily basis. It is extremely common for people to include wheat based foods in their breakfast, lunch and evening meals. I recommend reducing wheat and gluten based foods and replacing with vegetables such as sweet potatoes; corn; brown rice and pseudo grains such as buckwheat, amaranth and quinoa”, said Emma.

Lactose intolerance Lactose is found in milk products and is a disaccharide sugar which means it contains two sugars joined together that need to be split by an enzyme called lactase.

Many people do not produce much or any lactase, so lactose is not absorbed. The result is fermentation, which causes bloating and gut irritation.

These problems can increase over age because the production of lactase is thought to decrease in childhood. Injury or surgery to the small intestine or any intestinal disorders, such as coeliac disease or bacterial imbalance, may affect lactase production.

Emma Dawson has these top tips for looking after your gut to alleviate bloating: - Aim for 80:20 balance so 80% of your foods are healthy, whole foods - Make up your varied food plate with eggs, fish, poultry, lean meat, soy, nuts, seeds, pulses and legumes, and a rainbow of vegetables and fruit.

- Include fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut and natural yoghurt.

- Take your time when you eat and avoid eating and working at the same time.

- Seek nutritional support to identify the individual programme you need to support your gut to heal and allow the bloating to dissipate.

Emma offers a range of services and support to those experiencing problems with their gut. Personalised food plans can be developed and appropriate alternative medicines, including supplements, may be recommended to alleviate and control bloating. She also offers a range of tests, including food intolerance and stool tests, to identify the profile of bacteria, yeast and parasites in the gut. Emma runs a highly successful Heathy Weight Programme, with the next starting from 25 April 2016.

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital, The Chesterfield, is hosting a free Women’s Health event on Saturday 16 April to provide information about the services available to women including menopause, breast care, gynaecology, fertility and general fitness. The event runs from 10am-2pm and includes a lunch targeted at the nutritional needs of women. To book your place, contact 0117 405 8978 or visit: www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol.

Coeliac Disease Coeliac is an autoimmune disease, affecting one in 100 people, triggered by a reaction to gluten – the complex proteins found in wheat, barley, rye and triticale. Symptoms include bloating as well as hair loss and anaemia. If you suspect

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield, 3 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1BN Tel: 0117 405 8978 • www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol

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OUT | AND ABOUT

PEACE IN THE VALLEY Andrew Swift takes us on an invigorating hike across the tranquil Cotswold plateau

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ormarton lies less than a quarter of a mile north of the M4, yet is the starting point for a walk through some of the most tranquil scenery in south Gloucestershire.

After a brisk hike across the Cotswold plateau, which offers far-reaching views in every direction, you can head steeply downhill to Old Sodbury, where there is a welcoming pub, and from there, field paths lead to Dodington Park – landscaped by Capability Brown – and a climb past the source of the River Frome, to return to Tormarton.

Apart from three busy road crossings, the walk is straightforward, if muddy in parts. You are unlikely to encounter much livestock, but dogs have to be kept on leads in Dodington Park. There is also some walking along quiet lanes.

To get to the starting point, leave the M4 at junction 18, turn north along the A46, and almost immediately take a right turn for Tormarton. After three-quarters of a mile, just past Chestnut Farm, take the third right and park on the left by Tormarton church (ST769788).

Walk back along the road and, at the crossroads, carry straight on along a lane heading north. After 750m, turn right following a bridleway sign (ST769798). The copse you can see over to the right marks the site of an underground stone quarry. Carry on in the same direction for 2000m, and, when you come to a lane, turn left along it. At the T junction, bear left to carry on in the same direction, and after 250m, when the road swings left, bear right to carry on up another lane (ST786812).

•

•

• Over to your right, you will see a ventilation shaft, one of six

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that mark the course of Sodbury Tunnel – 2.5 miles long – which carries the GWR line from London to South Wales.

Spoil removed from the tunnel is now covered by a copse of beech trees. Further away, to the north east, you can also see Badminton House.

After 400m, when the lane swings right, bear left along a bridleway signposted to Old Sodbury, passing two more ventilation shafts. After 900m, just past Lyegrove Farm, carry straight on through a gate, following a path cutting through an avenue of trees, with Lyegrove House just over to the right.

Another gate leads into a large ploughed field (ST776815).

The OS map shows the bridleway heading straight on, but hoof and footprints indicate that it is customary to bear right and follow a grassy strip around the edge of the field.

At the end of the field, and with another ventilation shaft to your left, carry on along the remnant of a green lane – marked as Tyning Lane on the map.

At the next gate, carry on alongside a wall, but, after going through another gate, follow a waymark through a gate on the left. After heading across two fields, a handgate leads onto the busy A46. Cross and go through another handgate to the right of a drive.

Carry straight on alongside a wall. After 350m, just past a gate, take a track curving into woodland and follow rickety steps down into a holloway (ST758816). Although passable, this deep and ancient track is strewn with fallen trees. The official footpath climbs more steps to continue along the edge of the field, before dropping down through woods – carpeted with bluebells, with the holloway far below. This is the edge of the Cotswold plateau, and, through the trees, the Severn plain can be glimpsed, stretching far away.

After crossing a stile, head diagonally down to a handgate and turn left (ST757818). You are now on the Cotswold Way (CW), which you will be following back to Tormarton.

A kissing gate (KG) leads into a rough lane, at the bottom of which you turn right. Go through the churchyard, on the far side of which another KG leads into a field where a toposcope indicates features such as the Brecon Beacons, May Hill and the Tyndale Monument.

Main image: The view west from Old Sodbury Churchyard Below: Looking across the Severn plain

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OUT | AND ABOUT

This page: Oriental bridge detail in Dodington Park

• Head down to the bottom left-hand corner of the field and • • • •

• • •

through the KG. Carry on towards a barn and through a farmyard, before crossing a main road. If you look up to your left, you will see a final ventilation shaft.

Head along Chapel Lane to the right of the Dog Inn. After 350m, follow a CW signpost through a metal KG on the left (ST752812).

Cross the field diagonally to another KG, carry on in the same direction and go through one more KG in the top corner of the field. Carry on uphill, cross a stile and, after going through a gap in the hedge, continue towards modern buildings.

After going through a gate, turn right along a lane. After 350m, turn left, following a CW sign into the Dodington estate (ST753805).

Carry on through two more gates, cross a drive and continue over an ornamental bridge. As you head uphill beside a fence, you will see a lake to your right, with Dodington church and house high above. From the late 16th century to 1980, the estate belonged to the Codrington family, whose wealth came from sugar plantations in Antigua, but since 2003, it has been home to the pioneering hoover manufacturer, Sir James Dyson.

After passing a CW waymark, go through a KG as the ground levels out, and carry on with a fence on your left. After 600m, as the fence bears left, follow a clear track straight ahead towards a line of beeches on the horizon.

Cross a footbridge and head uphill beside the fledgling River Frome. Go through a gate at the top, cross the A46 with care and negotiate a squeeze stile by the milepost straight ahead (ST763790).

After 200m, cross a road and carry on across a slab stile. After another 75m, two more slab stiles with broken-down steps take you across a lane. Continue through a gate and at a KG turn left along a lane. When the lane curves left, cross a stile on the right and head across a field to emerge opposite Tormarton church. n

FURTHER INFORMATION...

■

Walk distance: 7 miles

■

Time: 3 – 3.5 hours

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Level of challenge: straightforward, although some sections may be muddy; three busy road crossings

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Map used: OS Explorer 155

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 75

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MOTORING | TEST DRIVE

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MOTORING | TEST DRIVE

THE A4: REVISITED To celebrate its 21st anniversary, the latest revision of the ever-popular Audi A4 focuses on upgraded driver comfort, advancements in technology and engine efficiency – Dara Foley sits back and enjoys the drive...

F

irst launched in 1995 to replace the early Audi 80, the A4 range of saloons and estates has become much trusted, loved and hugely popular across the globe.

Unassuming but supremely elegant, it’s the car of choice for those who want class and quality without any pretence or ostentation. And thanks to Audi’s design team, A4 devotees will appreciate that from the outside (at least at first glance) the new model does not look that much different to the outgoing version.

This is the ninth generation of A4s, and through an evolution that chooses to refine rather than remodel, Audi has brought the car up to date by making it lighter; therefore more fuel efficient, more powerful. Audi says every one of the 11 engine options has improved performance and to the delight of driving critics, it’s also more agile than any of its predecessors due to a number of transmission and suspension improvements.

Physically, it is a tad bigger and longer, with the usual updates to styling on the headlights and air intakes, but the real improvements are on the inside. It’s far roomier than before – Audi claim to have enhanced every part of the cabin; with more head room, leg room and shoulder space. The interior is certainly plush, and on the feature-packed S-line Avant we tested, the cabin space was airy and refined with all its interior styling wonderfully finished and a wealth of quality materials – ne vile velis…

(Nowt cheap and nasty, in other words.)

In today’s market though, driver technology is the new battleground for all car manufacturers – every car marque and model upgrade demands something special – and Audi’s trump card when it comes to tech has to be the newly integrated ‘virtual cockpit’. This was previously only included in the highest spec Audi R8 and TTs but is now being installed as an optional extra in A4s and Q7s. It is futuristic and very clever, a 12.3-inch, fullcolour LCD displays 3D graphics and transforms the regular instrument cluster at the touch of a steering wheel button. A toggle-through customisable display shows all the important information at a glance, there’s a ‘classic’ view with prominent speedometer and rev counter, or the ‘infotainment’ view, which brings functions such as the satellite navigation map or media to the fore.

Through the virtual cockpit you can also monitor a host of practical safety and driver assistants too – Audi active lane assist helps you stay in lane, and monitors the road markings via a front camera, while adaptive cruise control, including a traffic-jam safety assist, helps to regulate the distance between you and the car in front. This system uses two front radar sensors and a camera, rather than camera only, and works well.

Other state-of-the-art features like the improved park assist, and a superbly designed ‘head-up’ display that projects driver information to the inside of the windscreen, as well as camera-based road traffic sign

recognition, are great optional add-ons that should please even the most demanding technophile.

The infotainment system has also undergone an overhaul. The dashboard mounted MMI full-colour screen interacts far better than before with an intuitive connection to your smartphone, and allows you to use your phone applications, sat nav and music streaming. Even your contact list is accessed with the multi-function steering wheel controls, Audi voice control or even through the various Android or iPhone assistants like Siri. And if that’s not quite enough, the world is at your fingertips with the high-speed 4G internet access with Audi Connect now available for you and passengers in the A4 with the optional technology pack. The Audi sound system is fitted as standard but one of the most popular extras is the symphonic Bang and Olufsen sound system.

We rate the level of driver and passenger comfort – the front seats on our S-line model offering four-way electric lumbar adjustment – and discover many features like the three-zone climate control are fitted as standard. Road and wind noise inside the cabin are reduced to a whisper, and vibrations are minimal, thanks to plenty of acoustic padding and improved engineering techniques such as tighter gaps between body panels and doors. The extra leg room is welcome and the back passenger seats would comfortably accommodate three adults even on long journeys.

And so to the drive. It’s really very good and, as Audi claim, punchy, nimble and responsive. Our three-litre V6 TDI has a great pull, even at lower revs it smoothly picks up speed and works through the automatic seven-speed S-tronic gearbox beautifully. From standing it will reach 60mph in just over 6.5 seconds, and Audi has recorded its top speed as 155mph. Officially, the figures for the three-litre V6 TDI average 62.8mpg, with 117 CO2 g/km. These figures will stack up nicely for company drivers who might be trying to choose between a BMW 3 series, or Mercedes C Class, especially on the two-litre comparisons with reduced emissions – where they can save on fuel, tax and benefit in kind.

The new A4 range starts at £25,900 for the saloon and £27,300 for the Avant estate – the basic models come with a lot of the new features included, but with the addition of a package or two, and at unprohibitive costs, drivers can enjoy the best of this car-maker’s huge advancements in driver technology, infotainment and comfort.

Audi has a great reputation for high quality, well-built, reliable and cool-looking cars and here the A4 evolves again – as always, for the better.

Very recently it received the overall ‘Car of the Year’ award from What Car? magazine – and we reckon it’s fair to say it should expect a few more...

The Bristol Magazine’s test car was provided courtesy of Bristol Audi. For more information contact: Bristol Audi, Lysander Road, Bristol, BS10 7FF; 0117 9581450; www.bristolaudi.co.uk

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 77

Gardening.qxp_Layout 2 24/03/2016 12:14 Page 1

GARDENING

MAKING THE CUT

Margaux Speirs talks seasonal bouquets to brighten the home, fresh from your very own cutting garden

S

ome garden designers avoid annuals (plants that go through an entire life cycle in one season – growing, flowering and setting seed) for the obvious reason that they are not going to be there the next year, but I have never met a keen gardener who eschews annuals. They include some of the most colourful plants and their flowering can last many months, making a big impact in the garden. On the whole they are easy to grow, fast to flower and usually cheap to buy in great numbers. The very fact that they only last a year also gives you chance to try out some different varieties and colour combinations.

This article assumes you are planning a dedicated space for growing annuals for cutting but you can also plant cutting flowers within an existing border if your garden isn’t big enough to devote an exclusive area to them. The downside of doing that is it’s less easy to give them the conditions and care they need and it’s harder to bring yourself to cut the flowers as you may feel this denudes the border!

There is a small business in Cornwall, rather sweetly called Higgledy Garden, who sell cut flower bouquets from their planted paddock and who also harvest and sell seeds from their own cut flower stock. Their wide experience in growing flowers for cutting makes their list of ‘top 50 annuals for growing a cutting garden’ a good place to start when choosing what to plant (and buying seeds).

More locally, Organic Blooms based near Iron Acton runs a social enterprise business growing flowers for cutting and hosts courses such as ‘Create Your Own Cutting Garden’ (Friday 13 78 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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May, £110) and flower farming workshops (6, 7, 8 June, £375), but these courses are both a bit late given that you should really start planning and planting your cutting garden about now.

The smallest viable plot for your project is about one metre by two metres, but if you don’t have this much space, then why not start with growing just a pot or clump of sweet peas? Pick a sunny spot and if the soil is not already light, fertile and weedfree, prepare it by clearing, digging and adding compost. The ground will usually be warm enough to plant annual seeds from late March but you can carry on planting right up to mid-May – they will just bloom later and for a shorter season.

Buy a sheet of gardeners’ fleece to lie on top of the prepared soil for a few days before you plant, to warm it up. Once you have sown the seeds, you can put the fleece back on to keep it toasty and also keep pigeons from eating up the seeds. Ideally, plant in drills (rows) so you can tell the germinating seeds apart from the weed seedlings. You can make a little trench to the depth the seed packet instructs, by laying a bamboo pole on the surface and pressing it gently down. Water the ground before you plant, otherwise the seeds get washed about, and sew sparingly along your trench – raking soil over the top and labelling what you have planted at the end of the row.

Keep rows sufficiently far apart so that you can weed between them and be aware of how tall the annuals you plant are going to grow – plant them so that taller ones do not create too much shadow for smaller ones and be prepared to stake the taller plants. You will be amazed at how quickly the seeds germinate in warm soil and while they are tiny you will need to protect

Main image: Nurture your seedlings now, and reap the rewards throughout the year © Baramee Thaweesombat

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GARDENING your precious babies from hungry slugs and snails. If you have planted them too densely, be brutal and thin them out once they are large enough to handle, to give each plant the best possible chance of success.

Once they are flowering, pick regularly to encourage more blooms and to prevent flowers from trying to set seed. Keep the plants well-watered, especially during periods of drought.

The design element of a cutting garden is largely in the colour combination: unless you have loads of space I would limit the varieties to a manageable half-dozen or so and focus on flowers that have longer stems – these are the best candidates for cutting and arranging. You might have plenty of cuttable foliage in your garden but if not, I would always include something with green flowers – odd as that might sound – as it gives a bouquet stability and enduring freshness. Molucella (Bells of Ireland), nicotiana ‘lime green’ (Flowering Tobacco), and bupleurum griffithii would all serve that purpose. Having little sprays of white flowers is also helpful with almost any colour combination: something like gypsophila Monarch White in late spring, ammi majus in summer or cleome in autumn will each give a light, airy feel to your seasonal bouquets.

Here are a few combinations that will work really well together, although not all of these varieties will be flowering at once. For cool blues and whites: scabiosa perfecta (Pin Cushion Flower); larkspur consolida; lupin ‘Sunrise’; cosmos ‘Purity’; ammi majus (Bishop’s Flower); and chrysanthemum ‘Crazy Daisy’. For rich colours: centaurea ‘Black Ball’; various dahlia; tithonia ‘Fiesta Del Sol’; and various zinnia. For pinks and purples: nigella ‘Persian Jewels’ (Love in a Mist); statice; various sweet pea; aster ‘Ostrich Plume’; and godetia ‘Crown’. And finally, for fiery golden colours, why not give calendula (Pot Marigold); calendula ‘Art Shades’; and coreopsis grandiflora a try? n Margaux Speirs is a pre-registered member of the Society of Garden Designers and runs her business, Margaux Speirs Garden Design, from her home in Bristol. For further information, tel: 07903 779910 or visit: margauxspeirsgardendesign.co.uk

PLANT OF THE MONTH: My company logo is a dicentra spectabilis or Bleeding Heart (officially renamed lamprocapnos spectabilis a few years ago) and I am always thrilled to see them in flower in April.

The new leaves are vivid green and the flowers are little rows of hearts along arching stems (either white or pink). They are a woodland native so they don’t like to be in full sun or to dry out but otherwise they are easy to grow and amazing to look at even if they only flower for short time. Avoid putting them at the front of the border as they disappear back under ground and would leave a gap for a large part of the year.

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 79

Bristol Property column.qxp_Layout 1 24/03/2016 17:28 Page 1

CITY | BUSINESS

THE | COLUMNIST

THINKING PROPERTY ROBIN ENGLEY, ASSOCIATE AT KNIGHT FRANK ESTATE AGENTS BRISTOL

BUSY SPRING MARKET With a Spring market well under way Knight Frank Bristol remains busy with continued activity in both the town and country market. With recent success stories in the country ranging from £525,000 upwards and the Clifton market repeating a similar pattern of aggressive bidding due to the shortage of quality stock, we have to examine what is happening in the bigger picture across Bristol. Having worked closely with Independent Planning Consultancy agents Barton Willmore for many years, Senior Planner Faith Wright confirms what a hot topic the housing market is across the board. This connectivity is on-going and is a key driver in the regions attempt to tackle the housing shortage issue, having opened doors to several exciting opportunities in and around Bristol.

20 years to build 150 thousand homes There may be a lot of disagreement in the run up to the Mayoral Election in May, but there appears to be consensus on one issue - housing. Perhaps as one might suspect, the need to address Bristol’s housing crisis is a top priority amongst those looking to govern our city, and quite rightly so, given that in 2005, 69% of first time buyers took out their mortgages without parental assistance, and today that figure has fallen to 35%.

At the latter end of last year Barton Willmore, the UK’s leading independent planning and design consultancy and Knight Frank published a joint research project into development hotspots in the UK. For the South West the research identified that despite major transport infrastructure being underway Bristol and the surrounding areas has an imbalance of future housing supply and forecast household growth. Simply put we are not building enough new homes to keep up with demand, which in turn see’s house prices escalate far faster than earnings.

Barton Willmore’s research team suggest that over 150,000 new homes will be needed in Bristol and the three surrounding authorities over the next 20 years. With the Council itself owning 100 hectares of land in South Bristol, which is allocated for housing but not yet developed, pressure has to intensify to redevelop underused sites in the City. Even with this being the priority, we will not go anywhere near what is needed to meet the scale of demand within the current administrative boundaries. Our Mayor will need to work closely with the neighbouring authorities and make the case for more new homes within commuting distance of the City Centre.

Barton Willmore is the UK’s largest independent planning and design consultancy. From our 11 offices nationwide we combine national influence with local knowledge to offer the very best advice.

With competition increasing amongst buyers there has never been a more important time to register your interest in buying a property with the agent you feel are most likely to be able to help. n If you are considering a sale in 2016 please contact Robin Engley or James Toogood for a free no obligation market appraisal.

Robin Engley, Knight Frank, Regent House, 27a Regent Street, Clifton Bristol. BS8 4HR Tel: 0117 317 1999 Faith Wright, Barton Willmore, 101 Victoria Street, BS1 6PU Tel: 0117 929 9677. Email: faith.wright@bartonwillmore.co.uk

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PROPERTY | HOMEPAGE

The Gables, Cheltenham The Fairways, Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield

Brunswick Gate, Bath

Hall Farm Estate in Knowle, West Midlands

S

pitfire Homes recently won silver in the Best Small Housebuilder category of the 2015 WhatHouse? Awards. What makes Spitfire different is its bespoke approach to the design process, an ethos that has become synonymous with creating quality, beautifully designed homes with a real sense of individuality, which gives Spitfire a distinct differentiation in an increasingly discerning marketplace.

With many of their new homes sites located in The Midlands and The Cotswolds, Spitfire are now turning their attention to the South West. Following the off-plan sales success of the Brunswick Gate development in Bath, which consisted of four bedroom townhouses and two bedroom coach houses, Spitfire are gearing up for their next development within the grounds of Clevedon Hall, which is launching in the spring. Here, Spitfire are creating Clevedon Hall Estate, a collection of properties that respect their grand surroundings but at the same time are uncompromisingly current, both architecturally and functionally. Phase 1 of the scheme Hall Garden, will offer for sale 24 two and three bedroom terraced, semi-detached and link-detached contemporary homes that will surround a landscaped focal feature. With Spitfire’s renowned attention to detail & superb levels of specification, we can expect kitchen appliances from Smeg, with composite quartz worktops, & glass splashbacks; Vileroy and Boch sanitary ware, Porcelanosa tiling, & Amtico floors in bathrooms; and engineered oak wood floors, plus bi-folding doors on to patios with turfed gardens as standard.

Spitfire understands that today’s buyer insists on the latest technology in their homes, therefore wiring for CAT 5 and CAT 6 is included.

Due to the accessibility of Bristol, the M5 and good schools, there is a demand for high quality family homes in Clevedon. With this in mind, Spitfire will look initially at launching off-plan, followed thereafter with the opening of a show home. Scheduled for occupation from late 2016, please register your interest via Knight Frank LLP Bristol or Steven Smith Homes Clevedon.

Knight Frank, Regent House, 27a Regent Street, Bristol BS8 4HR. Tel: 0117 317 1999.

Steven Smith Homes, 12 The Triangle, Clevedon BS21 6NG. Tel: 01275 877771

SPITFIRE HOMES, CLEVEDON HALL, CLEVEDON • 24 New Homes • 4, 2 Bedroom Semi-detached Houses • 5, 2 Bedroom Terraced Houses • 13, 3 Bedroom Terraced Houses • 2, 2 Bedroom Detached Houses • Kitchen appliances from Smeg • Vileroy and Boch bathroom sanitary ware • Bi-Folding patio doors

Prices from £325,000

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Fine & Country April 2.qxp_Layout 1 24/03/2016 19:08 Page 1

Clifton | Bristol

Guide Price ÂŁ625,000

A wonderful mid-terrace family house with superb southerly views and well-appointed accommodation over three floors. 32' through-reception room with a modern open plan kitchen and access to the enclosed rear garden. Utility room. Three first floor bedrooms and a family bathroom. Top floor master bedroom suite with en-suite shower room. Excellent storage and a pretty fully enclosed rear garden.. EPC Rating: E.

Fine & Country April 2.qxp_Layout 1 24/03/2016 19:08 Page 2

Stoke Bishop | Bristol

Guide Price ÂŁ1,197,000

An exceptional five bedroom detached family home in a sought after location; refurbished by the current owners to a high standard throughout. Superb open plan kitchen / breakfast room & sitting room. Dining room. Playroom / study. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom & dressing room. Guest bedroom with en-suite shower room. Three further bedrooms. Family bathroom. Enclosed gardens. Gated drive & off-street parking. Integrated garage. .

EPC Rating: F

OFFICES – PENTHOUSE OFFICE SUITE

(0117) 934 9977 FOR SALE •

• • •

• •

• City centre location • High quality studio style refurbishment • 3,762 sq ft + 2 cars

• Fantastic space

Investment or

occupier Superb studio offices 2,014 sq ft Fitted to a v. high

standard Guide £325,000 Current 11% yield

FOR SALE ALL SAINTS LANE BS1

STUDIO ‘TRENDY’ OFFICES, CLIFTON

• Office building also suit residential (stp) -

• Modern open plan studio offices of 1,650 sq ft

• 2,838 sq ft gross area

• 4 on site car spaces

• Great city location

• New lease

• Guide £380,000 + CLIFTON OFFICES

MARINER HOUSE, PRINCE STREET, BRISTOL CITY CENTRE • Refurbished loft style offices • Open plan – c 1,200 sq ft – 2,400 sq ft • Close to Queen Square and The Waterfront.

• New lease – Only £14.75 per sq ft

• Flexible sizes from 460 to 1,550 sq ft • Close to the BBC • On site parking • Flexible leases

HQ OFFICE BUILDING CLIFTON

PARK STREET – BRISTOL

• 10 Car spaces!

•

• Close to BBC

• 1,450 to 3,115 sq ft

• New lease

• New flexible lease

QUEEN SQUARE – BS1

*FOR SALE* WESSEX HOUSE

• 2,337 sq ft

• Modern open plan office suite in prime city location

Offices to let in fashionable location between Clifton and the City Centre

• Modern detached office building

• 2,506 sq ft

• 3,143 sq ft – Excellent parking

• New lease – competitive rent

• Price on application

Julian Cook FRICS

Burston Cook APRIL.indd 1

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte BA Hons

• Sales / Lettings • Acquisitions • Valuations • Landlord & tenant • Auction Sales

• Rent reviews • Property Management • Investment Sales / Purchase • Development & Planning • Dilapidations Advice

23/03/2016 15:23

RETAIL – BROADMEAD SHOP TO LET

(0117) 934 9977 CABOT CIRCUS • Suit multiple uses

• Large shop 1,236 sq ft

• 1,000 – 4,000 sq ft

• Busy retail pitch

• Adjacent to Blanc Brasserie

• Shop & office use • New lease

• New leases – low rent

SHOP TO LET 70 PARK STREET

BROADMEAD A3 UNIT TO LET

• Large retail unit of 1,924 sq ft

• Large A3 restaurant unit

• *EXCELLENT TRADING POSITION*

• 1,320 sq ft

• New lease

• £27,500 pax – No premium

WATERFRONT CAFÉ

CLIFTON CAFÉ / A3 RESTAURANT UNIT

• Established pitch

• Fully fitted café unit in prime Portishead Marina

• Busy Queens Road site

• Available to purchase as ‘virtual freehold’

• 1,000 sq ft • ‘Al Fresco Seating

• OFFERS INVITED

• New lease 33 COLSTON AVE, BS1

HIGH STREET, SHIREHAMPTON

• Prominent A2 office unit

• Lock – up shop

• Busy Colston Avenue Pitch

• Prominent & busy pitch

• High quality fit out

• 576 sq ft

• 1,627 sq ft to let

• New Lease FREEHOLD FOR SALE, HEANLEAZE, BRISTOL

CLIFTON VILLAGE • Confidentially available*

• Prominent A5 unit plus 5 bed maisonette

• Lock – up shop • Busy location

Julian Cook FRICS

Burston Cook APRIL.indd 2

• Rent only £8,750 pax

• Great investment

• Premium £10,000 +

• Price on application

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte BA Hons

• Sales / Lettings • Acquisitions • Valuations • Landlord & tenant • Auction Sales

• Rent reviews • Property Management • Investment Sales / Purchase • Development & Planning • Dilapidations Advice

23/03/2016 15:24

THE NEW TREND FOR STUDIO AND LOFT STYLE OFFICE SPACE… As demand for studio and loft style office space in the City continues to thrive, one of Bristol’s leading Commercial Agents, Julian Cook, reports on current availability through his practice…

St Stephens Avenue – ‘studio space’

Whilst there has always been a niche demand for studio and loft style office space, an increasing number of non traditional office occupiers in Bristol are demanding a more contemporary and trendy office environment, away from the more traditional and generic office styles developed over the last 4 or 5 decades.

The Paintworks off the Bath Road was one of the first major developments to embrace this style with great success and a few years ago, this was followed by a refurbishment of the offices at the former HTV Studios close by, which again attracted a number of the design based media and digital companies across Bristol.

A number of buildings through the city are now being refurbished away from the traditional ‘suspended ceiling and cord carpets’ style to cater for this increasing demand, incorporating a more trendy industrial style finish for which there is strong demand throughout town.

A number of recent instructions handled by Burston Cook include a penthouse suite of circa 4,000 sq ft, just up from the Colston Mariner House – ‘loft style’ Hall and offering fantastic views over the city centre, newly refurbished loft style suites of between 1,200 sq ft and 2,400 sq ft at Mariner House just off Queen Square, a ground floor studio of circa 2,000 sq ft just off Colston Avenue and a newly developed purpose built office of circa 1,650 sq ft with 4 car spaces at the heart of Clifton, providing a more open plan nautical style.

For details on any of these properties or should you require advice on acquiring or disposing of office space throughout the city, then please contact Julian Cook at Burston Cook who would be only to pleased to help…

‘The Penthouse’ – 15 Colston Street

Hyland Mews, Clifton – ‘Nautical Style’

(0117) 934 9977 www.burstoncook.co.uk Burston Cook APRIL.indd 4

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Blaise

Westbury-on-Trym

Westbury-on-Trym

Five double bedrooms, four bathrooms, three receptions, kitchen-breakfast room and two downstairs cloakrooms/WC; a landscaped, fully enclosed, south-westerly facing garden, with dual access, measuring approximately 28m, large patio area and secure gated parking for several vehicles. This 16th century property maintains its original period features yet has a contemporary edge.

A four bedroom family home with master with en-suite to loft conversion, two interconnecting reception rooms; front with bay and rear with stone fireplace, kitchen/ breakfast room and a southerly facing 21m family garden with sandstone patio and path and a modern garage positioned within the garden.

EPC D.

Characterful three storey Victorian family home with four bedrooms, front reception with bay and fireplace, opening into dining area, third reception to lower ground floor with French doors to Westerly facing garden, kitchen/breakfast room with dual aspect and solid wood worktops. Period features and character throughout. No Chain.

EPC E.

Price Guide £1,000,000

£475,000

£450,000

Henleaze

Henleaze

Henleaze

A substantial natural four bedroom semidetached family home with three receptions; front with bay, rear with inset French doors to garden and third reception/breakfast room leading to kitchen also with garden access.

Further benefits include a 100ft family garden to rear with garage, ample parking and private driveway.

EPC E.

A substantial detached four bedroom 1930’s family home with two interconnecting reception rooms, additional breakfast room which leads to kitchen, modern Porcelanosa bathroom with matching separate WC. Further benefits include boarded loft room with natural light, garden, garage, driveway and partial views. Marketed with a complete chain.

EPC E.

A well-presented, three bedroom semidetached family home positioned within central Henleaze. Modern kitchen/ breakfast room with dual aspect and access to a landscaped 25m family garden, two receptions; front with bay and open fire and rear with French doors to private garden and modern spacious bathroom with four-piece white suite. EPC E.

Price Guide £675,000

Price Guide £600,000

£535,000

CJ Hole April.indd 1

21/03/2016 14:49

Clifton t: 0117 923 8238 (sales) t: 0117 946 6588 (lettings) clifton@cjhole.co.uk

www.cjhole.com Interesting times ahead. The stamp duty threshold for second properties has just changed and pundits, buyers and sellers are all waiting to see what happens in the property market. Notably here on the ground in Bristol, already first time buyers seem to have the upper hand again in some transactions. Where the investor may have had the cash advantage in the last few years, tighter investment margins mean that buyers looking for a home may have the edge in securing a deal, especially if they are prepared to go the extra mile.

The question mark over Europe is also making its impact felt. The referendum in June could see us stay or leave Europe: ripples of uncertainty in the media and what Brexit might mean for the UK economy are being

noisily debated. How might withdrawal affect the British housing market?

Again opinion is divided and no one can say for sure.

My advice as always on these things is generally the same -if you need and want to move, then move. Life goes on. Just be sensible and get expert opinion and support.

And yes that’s where we come in. If you want to have a ‘no strings attached’ chat about any property related matter then one of our expert team would be delighted to help. Call the Clifton office on 0117 923 8238.

Howard Davis M.N.A.E.A Managing Director - CJ Hole Clifton

CITY CENTRE A contemporary apartment offering luxurious and spacious accommodation located close to Park Street with its array of shops, restaurants and bars. In brief the property offers: open plan living space with defined kitchen area, sitting room and dining area, master bedroom with en suite and glazed door leading onto a private patio area, second generous double bedroom and main bathroom. The property also benefits from an underground allocated parking space plus secure bike storage. EPC B

£360,000

CENTRAL LOCATION A most attractive modern and contemporary four storey town house situated in the heart of the city. The thoughtfully designed house offers a light and versatile interior with four double bedrooms, three en suites, kitchen/breakfast room, living room, cloakroom, South West facing garden, two balconies and a roof terrace with views over the surrounding area. There is an integral garage with additional storage space. EPC C

£590,000

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Kingsdown £450,000

Highbury Villas – Four bedroom house

ila

ld quire Sor Re

m Si

Clifton Office 0117 946 6007

Sold similar required. Tucked away in a cul-de sac, period features, fireplaces, stained glass doors, rear courtyard garden, dining room, four bedrooms. EPC - TBC

d

Cribbs Causeway £310,000

Westbury-on-Trym Office 0117 962 1973

Medlar Close – Three bedrooms Only built 3 years ago, this immaculately presented family home is both contemporary and spacious. Rarely available, in fact we understand this is the first to be offered to the market since they were originally finished and purchased in 2013. An exclusive and intimate development close to Cribbs Causeway.

oceanhome.co.uk

Ocean April.indd 1

21/03/2016 14:22

Clifton £450,000

Upper Belgrave Road – Two bedroom flat A stunning top floor apartment with amazing views to the front over the Durdham Downs and to the rear across the City of Bristol. There is a staircase leading out from the kitchen giving access to the roof which has 360 degree views. EPC - E

Coombe Dingle £525,000

Westbury Lane – Three bedrooms Nestled at the end of a private lane accessed by only two properties the first thing that strikes you once you park your car in one of the many off street spaces is the tranquillity occasionally interrupted by bird song. Surrounding you are beautifully maintained and cared for gardens with an array of colourful plants and shrubs.

Ocean April.indd 2

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

NEW PRICE

Clifton

Guide Price £1,750,000

An impressive detached family house located in a popular residential are between Whiteladies Road and Clifton Village. EPC: F

SALE AGREED

St Andrews

Leigh Woods

Guide Price £750,000

Shortlisted for a Building Excellence award, this truly unique abode is a ‘one off’ hidden gem with open plan utilitarian style living space. EPC: C

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £575,000

City Centre

Compton Martin Guide Price £750,000 A stylishly presented 5 bedroom detached period home centrally positioned within the village.. EPC: F

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £525,000

Clifton

Guide Price £350,000

An elegant and stylishly presented Victorian family home. Tucked away from view, this 3 bedroom family house has many period features. EPC: D

SALE AGREED WITHIN 24 HOURS. Benefiting from unparalleled 180 degree views across the water, this home truly epitomises waterside living. EPC: C

This two bedroom Grade II Listed Georgian courtyard apartment is steeped in elegance and period charm.

City Centre

City Centre

City Centre

Guide Price £310,000

Two bedroom apartment with parking. Ideal investment buy. EPC: C

SALE AGREED

Sneyd Park

Guide Price £475,000

Two bedroom apartment. EPC: C

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £1,375,000

Set in just under half an acre, this distinguished 6 bedroom home exudes quintessential 1930s elegance and charm. EPC: E

Clifton

Guide Price £225,000

One bedroom apartment in a central location. EPC:C

SALE AGREED

Guide Price £545,000

An exquisite 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Grade II listed penthouse apartment occupying the top floor of this impressive converted semi-detached Victorian townhouse.

Redland

Guide Price: £325,000

An attractive and well proportioned split level apartment occupying the top floor of a period residence. EPC: D

Hamptons Bristol

Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com

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Wedmore, Somerset Guide Price: ÂŁ1,100,000

A large period village house set in stunning grounds of over 5 acres. Leisure complex, tennis court, gardens and open paddocks. EPC Rating: G

Burrington Guide Price: ÂŁ1,350,000

A stunning and recently renovated period gem nestled beautifully in the sought after village of Burrington, a true village complete with primary school, beautiful church, and excellent local facilities.

EPC Rating: F

Hamptons Bristol

Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com

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Richard Harding April.qxp_Layout 6 21/03/2016 15:00 Page 1

Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers

SOLD

An incredibly rare opportunity to purchase this handsome and large (over 5,500 sq ft) detached family residence enjoying magnificent level lawned gardens (overall plot in excess of 0.8 acres) and offering exciting potential to refurbish and renovate an impressive property to ones taste and requirements. Reduced VAT rate of 5% for building works and renovation to the main house, Ashburnham. EPC: F.

STOKE BISHOP guide £1,750,000

An elegant, impressive & beautifully presented large Victorian period semi-detached family house in a prime central location with the privilege of off street parking for 2-3 cars, an attractive rear town garden & extensive 5 double bedroom, 3 reception accommodation over the three upper floors PLUS a generous sized 5 room adaptable lower ground floor. An outstanding residence of exceptional quality full of light and space with enormous character and a lovely atmosphere. EPC: D

REDLAND guide £1,150,000

An immaculately presented and large 6 bedroom (2 with en-suite), 3 reception room semi-detached Victorian house with a stylish interior designed for modern family living, further benefiting from off street parking, a fabulous 21ft x 12ft kitchen/dining space and a level rear garden. Coveted location off the beaten track and yet so convenient: within 0.25 miles of Whiteladies Road, easy for the Downs/city centre/University/main Hospitals.

A spectacular refurbished period home in a desirable location. EPC: F

CLIFTON guide £1,175,000

KINGSDOWN guide £850,000

An attractive 5 bedroom, 3 reception early Victorian period semi-detached house dating from circa 1860 – set in a favoured and convenient location in the heart of Redland. Renovated to provide bright, well-proportioned accommodation with an abundance of character and period features. Very well thought out and sympathetically renovated and offers spacious family accommodation and a westerly facing rear lawned rear garden. Offered with no onward chain. EPC: C

A most civilised and engaging 4 double bedroom mid-Georgian (circa 1770) grade II listed period townhouse with a lovely 90ft tiered garden and parking in the sought after Kingsdown Conservation Area. A beautiful and interesting home – light and full of character with retained period. Enjoys a marvellous high position with far reaching and uplifting city views and a friendly neighbourly community who love the ambiance of this historic Georgian quarter with its cobbled streets and fine buildings;

Professional, Reliable, Successful

REDLAND guide £1,450,000

An exceptionally elegant and well-presented 5 double bedroom (2 en-suite), 4 reception, grade II listed family home situated in an enviable and convenient Clifton Village location. Enjoying the rare benefit of off street parking as well as a magnificent 28ft x 19ft family kitchen/dining room leading out onto a 50ft x 20ft rear garden.

Retaining much original character & architectural features. Prime Clifton Village location just round the corner from Victoria Square.

REDLAND guide range £1,000,000 - £1,100,000

0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP

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Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers

A superbly situated, modern south-west facing, 4 bedroom, with en suite shower room and family bathroom, water fronting townhouse with privileged views overlooking the wet dock of Bristol’s famous floating harbour, having an open-plan kitchen/dining/living room, easy maintenance gardens, balcony, off-street parking for two cars and single garage.

HARBOURSIDE guide £750,000

A spacious 4 bedroom, 2 reception townhouse which beautifully blends a contemporary finish with a number of retained period features, with 80ft x 80ft garden and off street parking space. Located within this contemporary Church conversion on the border of Redland and Bishopston, close to the amenities of the Gloucester Road and within the APR for Redland Green School. Works are due to be completed in June of this year.

BISHOPSTON guide £650,000

A stylish and contemporary 5 bedroom end of terrace home situated in a cul-de-sac, tucked away just off Gloucester Road and enjoying a peaceful and private 35ft x 30ft rear garden, off street parking, secure gated front courtyard/bike store and a well-crafted, tasteful interior. Newly constructed (2015) by its architect owner, this property has been carefully and sympathetically designed to blend in with the neighbouring period properties.

CML Professional Consultants certificate/building warrenty. Offered with no onward chain. EPC: B

HENLEAZE guide £685,000

SNEYD PARK guide £675,000

A loft style 2 double bedroom, 2 bath, 2 floor duplex with roof terrace, bike storage area and own private entrance. Kersteman Quarter is a stunning 5 home contemporary church conversion on the border of Redland and Bishopston, close to the amenities of the Gloucester Road and within the APR for Redland Green School.

Works are due to be completed in June of this year.

Immaculately presented this attractive 4 bedroom (1 with en-suite), 2 reception room modern detached house enjoys a 45ft x 30ft rear garden, off street parking for 2 cars & a double garage. Situated within a well-regarded established development, Glenavon Park, in the heart of Sneyd Park, a peaceful & leafy area. Much loved by the current owners for over 30 years, this well-cared for property offers scope for gentle cosmetic updating & offered with no onward chain. EPC: D

Professional, Reliable, Successful

KERSTEMAN QUARTER, REDLAND guide £750,000

A bright, well-proportioned 4 bedroom 1930’s semi-detached house with a large thro’ sitting/dining room, a sociable kitchen/dining room plus generous utility and an exceptional south-westerly facing rear garden (approx150ft x 60ft) and ample off street parking. Lots of space and further potential – set in a generous corner plot, with scope to build a double/single garage and/or add a loft room (subject to necessary consents). A wellpresented and spacious family home with an extraordinary garden. EPC: tbc

KERSTEMAN QUARTER, REDLAND guide £395,000

0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP

Brentry - Guide Price £625,000

Redland - Guide Price £425,000

A fine family home which has been cleverly extended and improved over the last ten years by the current vendors. This impressive home offers great space for growing families both inside and out, standing in a generous plot which affords privacy. A substantial 4 bedroom family home (with 3 bathrooms) and a generous driveway and garage. EPC - D

A very stylish and well presented 2 bedroom garden flat located in central Redland boasting well arranged accommodation and an allocated parking space. This lovely apartment has been updated by the present owner in the last couple of years to include the installation of a new kitchen and bathroom, which are both impressive. EPC - E

Clifton - £399,950

Redland - £630,000

A large 2 bedroom garden flat located in this sought after location near Clifton Triangle.

This remarkably roomy flat boasts over 1000 square feet of accommodation and has a great layout, briefly comprising: Entrance lobby, large central hallway, sitting room with feature fireplace, 2 double bedrooms (one with en suite bathroom). EPC - D

A superb 5 bedroom period home with cellar and private garden located in this quiet side road off Redland Road within walking distance of Whiteladies Road and The Downs. This roomy family home offers families plenty of space with accommodation arranged over 3 floors with plenty of period features and a great location. EPC - E

Stoke Bishop – Guide Price £650,000

Henleaze - £525,000

One of the best penthouse apartments in Bristol! Situated in the prestigious Marklands apartment building this extremely spacious (over 2000 sq./ft.) apartment offers gracious living with elevated views. Available to the market for the first time in twenty years we feel this is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire one of these highly desirable and rarely available flats. EPC - C

We are delighted to offer this very impressive looking large and traditional style 1930’s 4 bedroom semi-detached house with garage, parking and south facing garden located in this highly popular suburban district. Houses with this amount of potential are rare to come to the open market and so we recommend a viewing at the earliest opportunity. EPC - E

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Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £1,100,000

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £795,000

This is a magnificent ‘Stride’ built house offering well-proportioned rooms, striking wood panelling and an abundance of natural light from its large windows and patio doors. Stoke Paddock Road is one of Bristol’s most coveted roads due to the large plots and generous family houses. EPC - E

This is a large and impressive 1930’s 5 bedroom detached family house of character and distinction with a lovely westerly facing garden and situated in one of Stoke Bishop’s most desirable roads within walking distance of the Durdham Downs and the shops in Stoke Lane.

EPC - E

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £775,000

Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £735,000

A lovely late 1930’s five bedroom extended detached family home situated in a popular location mid-way between Westbury village and Henleaze High Street. Large open plan living spaces offering great versitility, south facing garden and off street parking for several cars. Close to Redmaid’s school. EPC - E

This is a beautifully appointed classic 1930’s 5 bedroom semi-detached house retaining much of its original charm situated in both Elmlea Schools & Bristol Free School Catchment Areas.

The house offers 5 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, open plan kitchen/breakfast room and conservatory. EPC - E

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Stoke Bishop - Guide Price £750,000

Westbury-on-Trym - Guide Price £499,950

An attractive 1930’s four bedroom detached house of considerable character with lovely balanced proportions set in a generous plot with 90 foot long rear garden situated in a premium residential side road within walking distance of local amenities and the parkland of Durdham Downs. EPC - F

Stunning cottage situated in a wonderful backwater area of an old part of the highly sought after Westbury on Trym district. It has been painstakingly restored, extended and refurbished by its current owners with great attention to detail so the next owner will have the pleasure of having the enjoyment of an old property yet with minimal maintenance. EPC - D

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CLEARANCE SALE

We are refurbishing our entire showroom with all new models All showroom models reduced by 50-75%

Sofa and curtain delivery time 2/3 weeks

Curtains and Blinds Sofas and Fabrics Bespoke Cabinet Furniture and Wardrobes

Bespoke Cabinet Furniture 3/5 weeks

All types of reupholstery Traditional to comtemporary styles Antique and Vintage pieces

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We are just past Clifton Down Shopping Centre 56/60, Whiteladies Rd, BS8 2PY Mon-Sat 9.30 - 5.30/Sun 12 - 5

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