The Bristol Magazine December 2021

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Issue 205

THE

I

DeCeMBeR 2021

MAGAZINE

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Glad tidings WE BRING Take a look inside

THEBRISTOLMAG

THEBRISTOLMAG

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM THE CITY’S BIGGEST GUIDE TO LIVING IN BRISTOL

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Dreamgirls at Bristol Hippodrome

58 Photography by Nic Crilly-Hargrave

© Gagana Mendis Wickramasinghe/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

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20 Contents December 2021 10-year-old Gagana Mendis Wickramasinghe's photograph from the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at M Shed

KIBOU signature cocktail

Photography by Matt Crockett

REGULARS ZEITGEIST

FESTIVE

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10

Top activities for the month to come

CITYIST

IT’S A WRAP FOR CHRISTMAS

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The simply ginormous red bow is back, keeping Bristol Audi festive

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12

SEASONAL CHEER

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74

Catch up on local news and meet the founder of Legs4Africa Tom Williams

How The Marmalade Trust is providing helping hands for anyone who needs it this Christmas

BARTLEBY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

DECKING THE HALLS

...ruminates on the joys of carol singing

Ever wondered how to dress a dinner table, decorate a tree or make a Christmas wreath? The answers are here, from three local experts

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76

FESTIVE EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

SPORT

We bring a super-festive round-up of what’s on to get you in the Christmas spirit

WHAT’S ON

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32

A cross-section of upcoming happenings in the city

WINTER WANDERS

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60

Andrew Swift explores Kingsdown’s cobbled streets and discovers a hidden gem with a rich history

LACROSSED STICKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Lacrosse is on the up, says Carys Johnson who plays for England U20 National Academy

FOOD & DRINK FOOD NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 City tidbits, from artisanal groceries to burger clubs and whisky

ARTS & CULTURE DAZZLING DREAMGIRLS

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Melissa Blease gets an insight into the magic that is Dreamgirls the Musical, which is coming to Bristol Hippodrome in January

ACCESSIBLE READS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Dyslexia-friendly books for children from Books on the Hil

FOOD REVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 We sample the menu of Clifton newcomer, Japanese kitchen KIBOU

HABITAT HOME & ANTIQUES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Chris Yeo talks jelly moulds

WINNING WILDLIFE

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From mountain gorillas to sea bears, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at M-Shed reflects the diversity of the natural world

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS

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What’s showing at our local galleries

GUISEPPE TIME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 “There are no words,” said Guiseppe, Great British Bake Off winner.

But actually our Bristol hero finds quite a few specially for us...

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GARDENING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Elly West recommends five brilliant green reads for gardeners

ON THE COVER Walther & Co. mix leaf wreath, £75 from Maze –the newly opened lifestyle and homeware store located at 18 The Mall, Clifton.

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Enjoy a Victorian Christmas at SS Great Britain

THIS MONTH WE’VE BEEN...

Admiring our cover shot...

from the

EDITOR

O

ur December issue brims with joyfulness, hope, inspiration and a historic first. Most notably, we chat to the man of the hour, Giuseppe Dell’Anno, on p.52.

After being crowned the winner of The Great British Bake Off last Tuesday (23 November) and becoming the first Italian – and the first person from Bristol – to ever win the competition, he fills us in on his Bake Off journey, his plans for Christmas, and his hopes for the future.

From the screen to the stage, Melissa Blease provides us with an insight into the magic that is Dreamgirls the Musical on p.20. Arriving at the Bristol Hippodrome on 5 January, Dreamgirls is without doubt a must-see show. Melissa catches up with four of The Dreams after their first week of rehearsals. Their power, their passion, their purpose – it’s all divine.

As the time to bring some much-needed winter sparkle into our homes is nigh, we asked three local experts for their top tips on how to beautify our living spaces. On p.76, we chat to the display manager of Harvey Nichols Bristol, The Mount Without’s award-winning stylist, and the owner of Bristol’s brilliant independent florist, Bouquets For Days, and discover their styling secrets.

Elsewhere, there are plenty more treats to be found. On p.58, we stop by one of Clifton’s popular newcomers. The KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar has been impressing diners since its humble beginnings in Cheltenham. Now spreading its wings to London and Bristol, we had to check it out.

In other news, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition has arrived at M Shed (p.38), showcasing the breath-taking diversity of the natural world. Andrew Swift takes us on a journey through the cobbled streets of Kingsdown – discovering a rich history and a formidable line-up of hostelries (p.60). Marmalade Trust, Bristol’s loneliness charity, tells us all about how they’re giving a helping hand to those who need it most this festive season (p.74); and Books on the Hill, in Clevedon, suggests six dyslexia-friendly reads from their new collection (p.24).

As always at this time of year, there’s an incredible array of local gifts on offer (p.46); a full calendar of festive events to be enjoyed (p.28); and a whole heap of updates from the city and its people.

To round off another 52 weeks around the sun, we bring – as our cover proclaims – glad tidings to you and your kin. Merry Christmas, Bristol!

MILLIE BRUCE-WATT EDITOR

@thebristolmag

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@thebristolmag

After 37 years of fashion retail, the team behind Maze Clothing have ventured into homeware. The newly opened lifestyle and homeware store, located at 18 The Mall, Clifton, features carefully curated homewares, gifts, apothecary and curios from renowned brands, local designers, and unique makers from around the world.

Emerging from an idea in lockdown, Maze had the opportunity to move with the market and satisfy the growing need for carefully chosen homewares. Maze Home presents a curation of unique and unusual pieces that have been skilfully chosen to bring joy to our homes from vintage finds to luxurious candles and natural textiles.

• mazeclothing.co.uk

Celebrating...

... Giuseppe Dell’Anno’s win on The Great British Bake Off. We catch up with the newly crowned champion to chat all-things Bristol. “There is a quirky vibe in this city that makes it very special: I particularly like the combination of strong Bristolian pride with welcoming international openness that makes it, to my eyes, a unique place to live,” he tells us. More on p.52...

Image: Bake Off finalists, Chigs Parmar, Giuseppe Dell’Anno and Crystelle Pereira

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5

ZEITGEIST

top things to do in December

Photograph by Lee Pullen

Listen

Gaze With shorter days and clear nights, winter can be the best time of year to look up at the night sky. This month, We The Curious is running Winter Stargazing shows in its 3D digital planetarium. Running from 8 December to 26 February, everyone is welcome to wander into the giant silver ball for their very own guided tour. Discover famous constellations, unveil the secret lives of stars, and learn the fate of planet Earth. Combining its incredible planetarium with its lively and knowledgeable presenters creates a remarkable show and a truly astounding experience.

Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or completely new to stargazing, you'll be able to escape the everyday and leave inspired to discover the night sky for yourself.

• wethecurious.org

Bristol Bach Choir is performing at St George’s Bristol on 11 December at 7.30pm, with their concert, Spirit of Christmas.

A sparkling evening of uplifting choral music and witty, entertaining readings. The spirit of the festive period will flow through this heart-warming, enthralling concert: a joyous celebration of Christmas through gloriously uplifting music and humorous and profound readings. A blend of the traditional and contemporary, to inspire you with the charm and magic of Christmas.

Tickets £12, £16, £22 (students £5).

• bristolbach.org.uk

Laugh Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients Bristol audiences have come to expect, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of jawdropping dance, side-splitting comedy, sensational special effects and plenty of festive magic.

Lesley Joseph will be starring as The Wicked Queen, Rob Rinder – who will be making his panto debut – will be appearing as The Man In The Mirror and Bristol panto favourite Andy Ford will be returning to the stage as Muddles. Don’t miss these strictly wicked shows, which will run from 4 December to 2 January. Tickets available from £13.

• atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white/bristol-hippodrome

Get festive

Remember

The rabbit warren of Estate of the Arts studios in Ashton, Bedminster has opened again for their much-loved arts fairs on Sundays and Thursday nights throughout December. With a large indoor and outdoor local makers market, open studios, pop up animation cinema, live music and performances, visitors are in for a real treat.

With a good dose of festive refreshments, the day and night winter fairs promise to be an exciting Christmas experience with a real grass roots Bristol atmosphere. Head to South Liberty Lane, Opposite Red Point Climbing Centre, on 2 December, 9 December and 12 December.

This month, St Peter’s Hospice is inviting all communities to come together and be part of a series of special Light Up a Life remembrance events. Light up a Life aims to provide everyone with a chance to remember, whether your loved one was cared for by St Peter's Hospice or elsewhere, Light up a Life is for everyone who wishes to remember someone in this way.

The charity is reflecting on the theme of 'Gratitude', as it expresses thanks to its supporters whilst remembering loved ones that are no longer with us. The hospice would like to welcome people of all faiths and communities to enjoy its services with readings and live music. The events will be taking place at Salvation Army, Staple Hill, on 5 December at 5pm and at St Mary's, Stoke Bishop on 6 December at 6pm. There will also be an online service on 9 December at 7pm.

• estateofthearts.co.uk

• stpetershospice.org

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THE CITY

My

BRISTOL Meet the founder of Legs4Africa, Tom Williams I always knew Bristol was a hub for international development organisations so when Legs4Africa started blossoming, I knew I needed to be surrounded by like-minded people, so I moved down here from the Midlands.

I've found it hard to be bored in Bristol (apart from once or twice during lockdown); there is always something interesting to do. What's really special for me is what's happening in the daytime – outdoor activities such as climbing, cycling or hiking are my go-tos these days, and there are just loads of opportunities for that.

CITY SUCCESS Bristol Sport Foundation, which aims to develop and coordinate the delivery of community sport in Bristol and beyond, has teamed up with Aardman and Netflix as they release their new animated musical short, Robin Robin.

Robin Robin is a beautiful 30-minute festive short, created by directors Dan Ojari and Mike Please. When her egg fortuitously rolls into a rubbish dump, Robin is raised by a loving family of burglar mice. As she grows up, her differences become more apparent.

Robin sets off on a heist to end all heists, to prove to her family that she can be a really good mouse – but ends up discovering who she really is.

The stop-motion animation was produced at the Aardman studios in Bristol and was launched on 24 November on Netflix. It features the voices of Gillian Anderson, Richard E. Grant, Adeel Akhtar and Bronte Carmichael.

Thanks to this unique partnership with Aardman and Netflix, the Bristol Sport Foundation will be able to deliver its Bristol Flyers Health Squad programme to six Greater Bristol primary schools all based in areas of high deprivation. More than 350 children will receive the weekly health and well-being lessons, running into Christmas; teaching them valuable lifeskills alongside fun basketball sessions.

At the conclusion of the six-week programme, 30 children will be invited to attend a Health Squad Christmas Holiday Hub at Ashton Gate Stadium, where they will learn to cook the pudding that features in Robin Robin, from a recipe devised by chef and activist, Jack Monroe.

Legs4Africa started as a random act of kindness back in 2013, when I managed to get a chap from The Gambia a new prosthetic leg following a visit there. Seeing this man walk again and witnessing how it impacted his family and community touched me deeply, so I set about rescuing unwanted prosthetic legs from anywhere I could find them. Luckily I had few friends that wanted to get involved, and people in the prosthetics industry liked what I was doing, so that first leg soon turned into many.

In the early days, I would personally dismantle the legs, but a few years ago we started working with groups of retired men around Bristol to dismantle them for us. These groups are called Mens Sheds, and I absolutely love what they do to help retired men keep busy and connected with their community. We are now receiving and dismantling enough legs to support eight mobility centres across six sub-Saharan countries.

Our recent campaign, Leg Up, is the brainchild of our fundraising manager Evie Dickinson and has been launched to bolster the projects that we're running in The Gambia. It's a matchfunded campaign meaning all public donations are doubled, which is obviously incredible.

There has been a focus on The Gambia since we began, and we can see that a lot more still needs to be done to support people with limb differences there. Our projects involve supporting the country's only mobility centre by providing training and prosthetic legs, offering outreach services, peer support, and counselling to help people through the trauma of limb loss. Our target is to raise £100,000 by Christmas Eve. It's the biggest fundraiser we've ever tried to do, and we've had tons of support from Paralympians and other influential people with limb differences.

• bristolsportfoundation.org

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As I run the Leg Recycling Programme, I'd like to see us rescuing even more legs in 2022, which

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means developing more robust relationships with suppliers and clinics in the UK and overseas and streamlining our supply chains.

Our partners in France are currently sailing a boat of prosthetic components that they've collected over the last 18 months to the clinic in The Gambia, which opens up a conversation about ethical and sustainable transport.

The dedicated retired men from Mens Sheds that crack on with dismantling the legs that arrive from around the country definitely deserve a shoutout. Without them, we wouldn't have been able to recycle 10,000 legs and make such a positive impact on so many people’s lives.

Recently, I've been thoroughly enjoying reading The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enríquez. It's a charming book of short stories.

The Blind Boy podcast is hilarious, and they also talk a lot about mental health and other major societal challenges we're facing right now.

I love going to the new veggie or vegan restaurants that seem to be popping up more and more around town. OM Burger on Glouchester Road recently tickled my taste buds.

If I could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, it would have to be one of my early ancestors, ideally from a few thousand years ago; it would be interesting for a few reasons but mainly because I would appreciate it if someone brought me back from the dead way into the future.

My philosophy is to leave this beautiful little planet, having given more than I have received.

• Follow @legs4africa on Instagram and Twitter and donate to the Leg Up campaign via the website: legs4africa.org

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FLYING THE FLAG A flag from one of the biggest ships in the Royal Navy is to hang permanently in Bristol Cathedral.

A special ceremony is set to take place to mark the links between the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and the maritime city of Bristol. Crew members from the ship will parade the flag into the cathedral, accompanied by a Royal Marine Corps of Drums, on 12 December at 3.30pm as part of the historic Evensong service. The flag will then be blessed and will hang permanently in the cathedral marking the affiliation between the city and the vessel as it patrols the world as a national strategic defence asset.

Military flags “laid up” in this way are permanently displayed and buried in consecrated ground if they disintegrate over time.

The blessing of the White Ensign, which traditionally flies on Royal Navy ships, will be the ceremonial highlight of a weekend visit to their home port by the Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales Captain Steve Higham and around 30 of the crew.

HMS Prince of Wales is one of the Royal Navy’s fifth generation aircraft carriers, one of the most powerful surface warships ever constructed in the UK and has a projected lifespan of 50 years. In 2022 she will lead the NATO carrier strike force in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Her flight deck is 70 metres wide and 280 metres long – enough space for three football pitches – and she can hold 45 days’ worth of food in stores. She has a minimum crew of around 700, increasing to around 1,600 with aircraft onboard.

During the weekend visit to Bristol the captain and crew will be meeting Bristol business and civic leaders, including a formal meal on board SS Great Britain and crew members will be taking part in gig races with Bristol Gig Club on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.

• bristol-cathedral.co.uk/whats-on/white-ensign

STUDENT WINS AT INTERNATIONAL AWARDS A University of the West of England MA student has won two prizes in the British Ecological Society’s annual photography competition, Capturing Ecology, which celebrates the diversity of ecology across the planet.

Alicia Hayden, who joined UWE Bristol’s MA Wildlife Filmmaking course in September, took top spot in the Up Close and Personal category and also won the Art of Ecology student prize.

In the Up Close and Personal category, Alicia’s photograph, titled Beautiful Bryophyte, displays the intricacy of moss growing on a wall in Cornwall; looking like something from a tropical rainforest it shows how there is beauty in the smallest of living things. Spotlight, Alicia’s photograph of a spider repairing its web, with the streetlamp highlighting the movement of its legs, was awarded the student prize in the Art of Ecology category; it illustrates the urban wildlife which is not usually acknowledged.

Alicia said: “Working in the wildlife film industry has been an aspiration of mine since I was around 12, as I love the idea of combining my love of the arts with the sciences –and using my skills to tell stories about the natural world, and inspire people to protect it.”

The independent judging panel included six highly respected photographers including eminent ecologists and award-winning wildlife photographers. Among them was Laura Dyer, a South African-born wildlife photographer, who has an affinity for animal portraits.

Laura said: “Wildlife and nature photography is so vital today, as it helps to showcase parts of the natural world which would otherwise remain hidden from the view of most of us. And it is only by seeing the beauty of nature that we will be inspired to protect and conserve it.”

• uwe.ac.uk; britishecologicalsociety.org 14 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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CROSS-CONTINENT COLLABORATION Fluorescent Smogg – a print and production house based in Bristol – is proud to present Chikyu (Earth), a 21 colour screen print from Japanese artist Taku Obata.

Taku is a multidisciplinary artist spanning sculpture, painting and print making. With his playful approach, Taku transitions seamlessly between figurative and abstract styles with compositions inspired by history, nature and culture. Fusing traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary arts practice, he forges dynamic and surprising compositions, the largest of which is this production with Fluorescent Smogg.

Speaking about the silkscreen prints, Taku said: “This edition of 21 colour silkscreen prints was very exciting to make; I've never seen a silkscreen print of this scale with so many layers. I visited the print studio and was very surprised and impressed at the printing technology and machinery.

To enhance the edition, I have also hand finished 10 copies to make this part of the edition completely unique.”

Fluorescent Smogg, which was set up by UK artist Sickboy said: “Taku's mark making is totally unique and for us, an almost direct translation of his sculptural 2D work process. With this release we want to capture his mark making as closely as possible. To achieve that we utilised cutting edge technology within printmaking to edition an original piece of Taku's work at a 1:1 scale. The detail in the reproduction is truly incredible and we're proud to say that this looks more like an original than anything we've created before.”

• fluorescentsmogg.com

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THE

B R I S TO L MAGAZINE

Contact us:

Carols of comfort

F

unny the things you miss. I used to dread Wednesdays because for about a decade I spent the hours after school dragging the kids to their swimming lessons, watching said lessons, then getting everyone home again. Wednesdays were about lost goggles, chlorine and shouted conversations through the door of the female changing rooms, where Ms B would be attempting to beat the world record for slow dressing. I think about those times quite fondly these days, remembering the conversations with random parents and that first length of proper non-doggy-paddle crawl.

Carol singing in the park only happens once a year, rather than every week, but my feelings about it used to be broadly similar. Carols were a chore, and one it was impossible to get out of because we were friendly with the vicar and he always made a point of saying how much he was looking forward to seeing us… tomorrow, in the park, at 6pm, in front of the old park lodge, at 6pm. Although generally easy-going, the vicar took carol singing in the park seriously. Kick-off was at six sharp, then he and the keyboard player competed to see how quickly they could race through a repertoire of familiar classics interspersed with occasional modern offerings from the happier, clappier end of the church spectrum.

Of course the older singers only knew one way to sing Once in Royal David’s City, and that was slowly with the occasional warble or trill, so the congregation was always a bar or two behind the piano. Add the wail of a baby and the occasional bark and you ended up with something more like experimental jazz than anything beamed live from King’s College.

We would inevitably arrive late, forgetting until we got there and were handed our laminated carol sheet that visibility in the park on a December evening is not great. As the keyboard player banged out the opening bars of Away in a Manger we peered around for someone we knew well enough to share words with. The kids, meanwhile, vanished into the darkness, resisting our hissed entreaties to ‘stay here and enjoy the carols!’, and were soon to be heard shrieking with their friends in the play area. Moments later we were being divided up by gender so we could perform Good King Wenceslas with high and low parts, despite mutterings in certain quarters about the king’s part being sung by men, and the page’s by women.

A couple of carols later the keyboard player paused, allowing the vicar to say a few words. Readers of a certain age may remember the bit in The Two Ronnies where Ronnie Corbett sat in a chair and told a story, and this is what always came to mind when the singing stopped and the vicar shared his thoughts. Shoulders drooped. Eyes lost their sparkle. Feet shuffled towards the table where the vicar’s wife was preparing to serve mulled wine. Then the piano burst into life once more and we went hurtling towards the climax of the show: a breathless rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas. We would begin confidently, knowing all about partridges and turtle doves, but as the days grew more numerous the inevitable uncertainty would creep up. Was it nine lords-a-leaping?

Or ten? What were the ladies doing? Fortunately the mounting chaos of each verse was brought to order by the vicar bellowing ‘Five Go-old Rings!’ every so often, bringing us back to the cosy world of calling birds and French hens.

Then it was over and we made a beeline for the mulled wine. One year it had snowed, and we all stood about stamping our feet, wreathed in plumes of white breath like carol singers from the past. Another year someone brought a trumpet. And last year there were no carols in the park, which I’m really hoping was a one-off. Christmas just isn’t the same without them. ■

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Publisher Email:

Steve Miklos steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Financial Director Email:

Jane Miklos jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk

Editor Tel: Email:

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Assistant Editor/Web Editor Daisy Game Email: daisy@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Production Manager Email:

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2 Princes Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2ED 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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THEATRE

Dreamgirls was nominated for 13 Tony Awards and won six before being adapted into a 2006 film version starring Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé

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THEATRE

BEYOND THE DREAMS Direct from the West End, the cast and crew of the Tony award-winning musical, Dreamgirls, are currently preparing to dazzle audiences at Bristol Hippodrome in January 2022. After the first week of rehearsals, Melissa Blease sat down with the four powerful women playing The Dreams to chat about the extraordinary story, the unforgettable soundtrack and what it takes to deliver a showstopping performance...

T

hree young women, three exceptionally powerful singing voices, one big dream: you could say that's the start of the story of every Girl Group since the all-American, allfemale trio the Three X Sisters (formerly the Hamilton Sisters and Fordyce) shook up Vaudeville variety across the USA, Europe and the UK as early as 1923.

As the decades rolled by, the Girl Group genre moved with the times from The Andrews Sisters to Zhané taking in legendary, iconic GG acts including The Supremes, the Spice Girls, Destiny's Child, The Shangri-Las, En Vogue, The Nolans, The Pointer Sisters and many, many more along the way; the list is endless and can never be fully comprehensive, while much controversy rages regarding which GG's lead the ultimate top ten.

But beyond the gloriously glamorous outfits that are as intrinsic to the Girl Group genus as the big, BIG ballads are, one core fact remains the same: if the girls in any given Girl Group didn't have the drive to follow up on their ambitions, they were never going to get beyond wannabe category. So, given the backstories woven into the very fabric that sticks the sequins to those slinky dresses, the real-life dramas behind the rise of the Girl Group were never destined to stay backstage.

And so it came to pass that, in 1981, Broadway audiences packed the Imperial Theatre for the premiere of Tom Eyen and Henry Krieger's Dreamgirls: a lavish musical based on the real life stories of acts such as The Supremes and The Shirelles, following the tale of a young female singing trio from Chicago (The Dreams) on their journey to stardom. Dreamgirls was nominated for 13 Tony Awards and won six before being adapted into a 2006 film version starring Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx and Beyoncé. But as spectacular as the film is, Dreamgirls aficionados (and their numbers are legion) will tell you that you simply cannot beat the live show experience... and in January 2022, you can test that theory for yourself when Dreamgirls comes to the Bristol Hippodrome.

“The amazing thing about Dreamgirls is that the story is so real and relatable,” says Natalie Kassanga, who plays Deena Jones in the current touring production of the musical. “It really portrays the struggles for women within the music industry, especially back in the 1960s and 1970s when we simply weren’t able to have a voice, or stand up for ourselves, or navigate our own journeys without manipulations from other people, including managers who almost tried to build women into something that they're not, or an artiste that they didn't want to be.”

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There are around 34 unforgettable songs packed in, around and through the Dreamgirls dialogue and action, taking in everything from soft ballad to high energy, full-on dance floor anthems along the way

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THEATRE

(L-R): Natalie Kassanga, who will play Deena Jones, Nicole Raquel Dennis, who will play Effie White and Paige Peddie, who will play Lorrell Robinson

“Because all the lead principal roles in Dreamgirls are females who succeed despite the pressures around them, it's a very empowering story, which is so important not just for a younger generation but for women of all ages, and men too,” adds Nicole Raquel Dennis, who plays the ineffable Effie White. So we're definitely on role model territory here, then? “For sure!”, says Paige Peddie (Lorrell Robinson); “for me, seeing Dreamgirls when I was younger, and seeing women who looked like me going through their journey – I wanted to be like that! And now I'm an actual Dreamgirl too.”

As you may have gathered, we’re lucky enough to be talking to all three Dreamgirls for this interview... with a fourth thrown into the mix for extra-added sparkle. Without giving any of the plot away (there will be no spoiler alerts here, folks!), Effie – one of the original band members – is replaced by Michelle Morris before the group go on to achieve international stardom and a string of chart-topping hits. “Michelle is kind of the fourth “Dream”, stepping in to fill Effie’s shoes after all kinds of plot twists and turns force the change,” says Brianna Ogunbawo, who is herself stepping into new shoes in the role. “She’s very excitable, and understandably nervous about being the new girl in the line-up; it’s a completely new experience for her, and she’s trying to navigate it.” An interesting role indeed – but then again, none of The Dreams are one-dimensional.

“Our characters are so complex, so human, so relatable,” says Nicole. “In a nutshell, you could say that Effie is the sassy, ballsy, feisty one – really determined and hardworking, but often misunderstood.”

“Lorrell is the kookie, excitable one,” says Paige. “In some ways, she's the problematic one too. But she really speaks her mind, and goes for exactly what she wants.”

And Deena? “She’s the enthusiastic one,” says Natalie. “She’s very loving too. To Deena, The Dreams are her family, and she really 22 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Because all the lead principal roles

in Dreamgirls are females who succeed despite the pressures around them, it's a very empowering story, which is so important not just for a younger generation but for women of all ages, and men too

reflects and concentrates on the relationships she has with her ‘sisters’ despite the fact that she too has a keen eye on turning her dreams into reality.”

Are there any aspects of the four actors’ own real life personalities in the roles they play? “I think I'm quite similar to Lorrell,” says Paige; “I sometimes think she's just a bigger version of me,” “In my real life, I don't think I’d want too much of Effie’s attitude,” says Nicole. “But since starting rehearsals, I can definitely feel her in the way I carry myself with more confidence, off stage. It’s hard not to draw on your own experiences in a show like this, but as actors, it's important that we separate the two; we can't base our roles on our own lives, because we’re telling their stories. But I think the one thing all four of us have in common is that we all always wanted that kind of Dreamgirls success. I know for sure that when I

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Photograph by Matt Crockett

“It's a jukebox musical, but the script is phenomenal, and the characters so fleshed out, so unique. The actual story at the core is incredible,” says Nicole Raquel Dennis

Photograph by Matt Crockett

Photograph by Brinkhoff Moegenburg

“Some people will experience a sense of nostalgia for the Motown era, others will be introduced to a brand new sound. But overall, the Dreamgirls vibe is exciting, uplifting, thrilling – it's just beautiful,” says Paige Peddie

“On one level it's quite educational, because the costumes change and the musical styles change as The Dreams move with the times. Dreamgirls tracks a music business evolution and, in a way, a revolution,” says Brianna Ogunbawo

was younger I definitely wanted that kind of visual, that Dreamgirls vibe. And now we get to be like that, we get to be them... and it's very humbling.”

Strength, sass, sisterhood and sparkle: so far, The Dreams and I have discussed every component of the perfect recipe for ultimate Girl Group stage musical success... except one.

A major part of this fast-paced, deliciously dramatic, diva-led drama is, of course, the music – and fans of the jukebox musical will be delighted to hear that there are around 34 unforgettable songs packed in, around and through the Dreamgirls dialogue and action, taking in everything from soft ballad to high energy, full-on dance floor anthems along the way. I Am Changing, Listen, One Night Only – even if you think you don't know the greatest hits, you do. But there is one soaring, spectacular song that stands alone as the ultimate Dreamgirls moment. “And I am Telling You I’m Not Going is a truly iconic song,” says Nicole (who, by the way, as a 2019 finalist on ITV's The Voice, wowed viewers and judges alike with her rendition of the same song, which she duetted with team mentor Jennifer Hudson herself). “As Effie, I get to sing it every night. It's one of those songs that you can't ever plan in advance,

or think about coming up – you have to do it in the moment, and commit to it in that moment.” And when she does, I guarantee that there's not a dry eye (let alone an undropped jaw) in the house.

And when the tears have been dried, the jaws re-hinged and the music stops: what can audiences expect to take away from the Dreamgirls experience?

Brianna: “On one level it’s quite educational, because the costumes change and the musical styles change as The Dreams move with the times. Dreamgirls tracks a music business evolution and, in a way, a revolution.”

Nicole: “It’s a jukebox musical, but the script is phenomenal, and the characters so fleshed out, so unique. The actual story at the core is incredible.” Paige: “It’s definitely a feel good show for every generation, for all ages. Some people will experience a sense of nostalgia for the Motown era, others will be introduced to a brand new sound. But overall, the Dreamgirls vibe is exciting, uplifting, thrilling – it's just beautiful.” n • Dreamgirls will be showing at Bristol Hippodrome from 5–22 January 2022. Book your tickets at: atgtickets.com/shows/dreamgirls THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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BOOKS

READ EASY This Christmas, delve into a selection of dyslexia-friendly books recommended by the brilliant team at Books on the Hill in Clevedon. With larger fonts making reading easier and off-white paper helping to reduce visual stress, owner Alistair Sims details his favourite books for adults and children alike...

THE HOUSE ON THE OLD CLIFF

By Adrian Tchaikovsky; published by BOTH Press A master of the unexpected, Adrian Tchaikovsky takes readers for a ride in this imaginative whodunnit. Pseudohistorian Doctor Hendry is missing. His employers want answers.

Paranormal investigators, Michael and Walter – accompanied by two unscrupulous mercenaries and a deeply sceptical history professor – join a search party, which leads them to Hendry’s remote Scottish cliff-top home. Among the doctor’s research they find more than they bargained for and the rescue becomes a fight for survival.

SHERLOCK HOLMES AND THE FOUR KINGS OF SWEDEN

By Steven Savile; published by BOTH Press Steve Savile hits the perfect note in this homage to Sherlock Holmes. Those who are familiar with Conan Doyle style of prose and storytelling are in for a treat. How can one man be in four places at once? Lecturing to a carefully selected audience, Dr Watson recounts the unravelling of this impossible riddle after he and The Great Detective are summoned to Stockholm. The King of Sweden has been spotted in several cities on the same day, many miles apart. Threats of blackmail hint at some dark purpose behind this deception. As Holmes and Watson dig deeper, they uncover a convoluted plot of murder, mummery, and mesmerism.

MADAM SQUEAKER

By Pip Jones; published by Barrington Stoke Ltd Crumbs on the counter, morsels on the floor – there should be plenty of food for Minetta the mouse to eat in Hollyhock House, but the Ruling Rats are running rampage every night, taking the best of everything for themselves. Minetta has decided that enough is enough – it's time the rats learn to share.

The trouble is, Minetta is so small and her voice is just a squeak – how will she ever make them listen?

THE CLOCKWORK EYEBALLS

By Steven Poore; published by BOTH Press Reminiscent of masters of the spy genre, Steven Poore tells a tale of derring-do in a world of intrigue, with his usual flare and immaculate writing. Readers are plunged into an alternate Marrakesh in the year 1958.

The Cold War rages on and, with the launch of Sputnik, Russia edges ahead in the race to space. Young Saif’s mission: escort an undercover British agent to the deputy security directorate. Evading high tech Russian surveillance devices, Saif borrows a grand taxi and heads to the pick-up point. But the agent – aka “The Lighting Rod” – is the one man guaranteed to make a dangerous situation more perilous. The race is on to escape the Russian secret service and deliver the spy safely into British hands.

RACE TO THE FROZEN NORTH

By Catherine Johnson (author), Katie Hickey (illustrator); published by Barrington Stoke Ltd Matthew Henson was simply an ordinary man – or that was until Commander Robert E. Peary entered his life and offered him a chance at true adventure. Henson would become navigator, craftsman, translator, and right-hand man on a treacherous journey to the North Pole. Defying the odds and the many prejudices that faced him to become a true pioneer, this is his incredible and often untold story.

Founded in 2014, Books on the Hill is a family-run, independent bookshop located in the heart of the historical seaside town of Clevedon.

Owner Alistair Sims, who is dyslexic himself, has worked tirelessly to create a haven for people with dyslexia and reading difficulties.

Books on the Hill recently launched a publishing arm, BOTH Press, which publishes dyslexia-friendly books for adults. Find out more about Books on the Hill at: booksonthehill.co.uk, or visit the store in person: 75 Hill Road, Clevedon BS21 7PL

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HISTORY,TRADITION & QUALITY since 1881

Kemps, still a family run jewellers, in Westbury on Trym

KEMPS J EWELLERS

1881

9 Calton Court, Westbury on Trym, Bristol, BS9 3DF www.kempsjewellers.com • 0117 950 5090

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Yuup fp 3.qxp_Layout 1 26/11/2021 15:29 Page 1

Give them something to say Yuup about this Christmas!

Looking for local, sustainable, and out-of-the-ordinary gifts? You’ll find hundreds of unforgettable experiences with Yuup.

Give someone the gift of Bristol from a whole new perspective: from tasting masterclasses to woodland foraging and from pottery workshops to world cookery classes.

Need gift inspiration? Here are some experiences they’ll never forget:

For the foodie one: Heavenly chocolate-making workshop

For the luxurious one: Taste the fruits of the world with DBM Wines

Join award-winning chocolatier and founder of The Chocolate Tart, Lisa, for a two-hour immersive chocolate making workshop in Clevedon. You’ll learn the fundamentals and have a coffee and cake break before getting stuck in.

You’ll make two sets of handmade chocolates from Lisa’s extended menu: moulded bonbons, chocolate puddles, hand-dipped truffles, ganache-filled treats, and more! Make a day of it and enjoy the historic Victorian easide town after.

Taste the mountain soil, the sea breeze, and bursting sun-drenched berries in this gastronomic experience that will take you across the globe. DBM Wines is an independent, personal wine merchant in Clifton with over 30 years of experience.

Taste wines that have been specially selected by a Master of Wine (one of only 370 globally) in a relaxed and approachable atmosphere. Exclusive without being elitist, you’ll discover that expert wine knowledge can be found just at the tip of your tastebuds.

£130 for two people

From £20 per person

For the artsy one: Embrace the ancient craft of pottery with Ridgeway Studios

The showstopper: Take a champagne flight in a hot air balloon

Created by husband and wife team Max and Finola, Ridgeway Studios in Fishponds is a buzzing hub for resident ceramics artists and the home of low-key and casual pottery workshops.

Ceramics artists Meredith and Naomi will show you how to morph raw materials into works of art on the wheel. When not on the potter’s wheel you’ll be handbuilding pottery with stoneware clay. This is a relaxed affair with refreshments available throughout.

Is there anything more romantic, more fantastical, more iconic, or more Bristol than being transported through the air by hot air balloon? Setting off from Ashton Court, this is an unforgettable sky-high experience that will give you a bird’s-eye view of Bristol.

A hot air balloon flight raises the bar when it comes to great gifts. Perfect for special occasions like Christmas (or simply something to cross off the bucket list)! The best bit about this gift? They get to share it with you.

From £40 per person

From £160 per person

With over 350 unique local experiences you’re sure to find something for everyone.

Discover more great experience gift ideas and gift vouchers at yuup.co

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FESTIVE FUN

MERRY & BRIGHT

Glad tidings we bring in the form of a super-festive round-up of events happening around Bristol this month to get you in the Christmas spirit FESTIVE FUN AT WE THE CURIOUS n Throughout December Step through the rainbow entrance of Bristol’s We The Curious and you’ll find yourself immersed in a playful world of possibilities. In its latest experience, ‘Project What If’, discover alien habitats, broadcast a message into space, chat with the resident robot and then leave your own burning question. There will also be plenty of festive fun including the return of science-meets-panto show, Fairytale SOS. wethecurious.org

Hansel and Gretal at Arnos Vale Cemetery

CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE TRAIL n Throughout December, around Bristol Christmas Adventures, Bristol’s festive light trail, has launched, lighting up iconic buildings with a selection of the jolliest Christmas lyrics and phrases. The project, created by Bristol City Centre BID and Redcliffe and Temple BID, will light up the Arnolfini, St George’s Bristol, Cabot Circus and Waitrose on Queen’s Road.

Expect glowing building frontages, famous song lyrics and Christmas movie quotes emerging across the city centre. bristolcitycentrebid.co.uk

a 21st-century kid discovers a dusty book at the back of his local library, something miraculous happens. An uneasy time of cunning thieves, dastardly villains and karaokesinging monks. Sound familiar so far? Not all is as it seems… bristololdvic.org.uk LITTLE WOMEN IN BLACK n Throughout December, at The Wardrobe Theatre A brand new alternative, adult comedy is arriving at The Wardrobe Theatre from the people that brought you Drac & Jill, Oedipuss In Boots, Reservoir Mogs, Rocky Shock Horror, and Muppits Die Hard.

Little Women In Black is an anarchic, sexy, adult-only devised comedy, injecting Louisa

ROBIN HOOD: LEGEND OF THE FORGOTTEN FOREST n Throughout December, Bristol Old Vic This Christmas, discover the next chapter in the Bristol Old Vic’s popular series of blockbuster festive family shows: a fresh spin on the swashbuckling legend Robin Hood with multi-award-winning company The Wardrobe Ensemble. Theatrical magic guaranteed. When

May Alcott’s literary classic with guns, gore and a sweet 1990s soundtrack. Directed by Julia Head (Wild Swimming; FullRogue), the show will be running until 16 January. thewardrobetheatre.com SHERLOCK IN HOLMES III: MURDER AT THE GAMES n Throughout December, online Created specifically for audiences to enjoy together online, previous shows Sherlock In Homes I: Murder at the Circus and Sherlock In Homes II: Murder On Ice were run-away hits, enjoyed by over 24,000 people around the world. This third adventure invites budding detectives to assist in solving a murder at the 1960 Rome Olympic Games by interogating the suspects themselves live over Zoom. thewardrobetheatre.com CHRISTMAS AT BRISTOL ZOO GARDENS n Throughout December The strings of lights lining either side of the historic top terrace and the traditional Christmas tree let everyone know that the festive season is coming. Christmas marks a special anniversary for one animal at the Zoo – Biggie the giant tortoise will have been at Bristol Zoo Gardens for 46 years on Christmas Eve, longer than any other animal in its history.

Visitors can try out ZooRopia, a high level ropes course suspended high above the heart of the Zoo. Before leaving, people can buy Christmas presents at the Zoo's gift shop including a range of soft toy animals and framed Bristol Zoo Gardens retro guidebook covers. bristolzoo.org.uk

OZ at Tobacco Factory Theatre

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St Peter’s Hospice

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CHRISTMAS AT THE SPIEGELTENT n Throughout December, at Waterfront Square Christmas Spiegeltent 2021 brings you an indulgent programME, presented in a magical and spectacular venue full of festive fun, in the form of family entertainment, club nights, drag, speakeasies, concerts, and Sunday socials to name a few. On 8 December, The Puppini Sisters – a close harmony singing trio – will showcase their incredible vocals which have delighted audiences across the world. On 21–24 December, a thrilling Christmas spectacle of live circus, fire, music and comedy, will all be in one stunningly presented show. And on 31 December, a roaring NYE Masquerade Ball will bring the curtain down on another fantastic Spiegeltent season. christmasspiegeltent.co.uk The Puppini Sisters at the Spiegeltent

INSANE ROOTS: HANSEL AND GRETEL n 1 December, Arnos Vale Cemetery As darkness falls, follow Hansel and Gretel through the magical illuminated woodland of Arnos Vale Cemetery, where not everything is as it seems. Discover a strange cottage, and a mysterious figure with an unsavoury appetite, and revel in this celebration of the imagination… but will you trust a trail of breadcrumbs to find your way home? Bursting with poetry and song from acclaimed writer Saikat Ahamed and composer Ellie Showering, this magical production will linger in your imaginations for many years to come. Tickets from £12; insaneroot.org.uk MADE IN BRISTOL GIFT FAIR n 4–5, 11–12 December, Bristol Beacon Made in Bristol Gift Fair is set to return to the Bristol Beacon’s foyer for three gift-packed shopping weekends, welcoming up to 200 makers and creators from the local community. On 4–5 and 11–12 December, visitors will be able to browse an array of unique gifts and artisan products – the perfect opportunity to get ahead with your festive shopping. Hosting carpenters, potters, weavers, leather-workers, jewellers and printmakers, Made in Bristol Gift Fair is sure to offer something for everyone. madeinbristolgiftfair.co.uk

A Victorian Christmas at SS Great Britain

SS GREAT BRITAIN: TAKE A TRIP TO A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS n 4–5, 11–12, 18–19 December Take an unforgettable trip to Brunel's SS Great Britain this December. For three weekends (4–5 December, 11–12 December, 18–19 December), the awardwinning attraction will be transformed into a historical winter setting, taking visitors into the heart of a Victorian Christmas. Brunel's historic ship was launched in 1843, the same year A Christmas Carol was published, and so festivities on board would have looked much like the sights described in Dickens' classic novel. On a Dickensian-like journey, you will discover incredible stories of the past, a multisensory experience in the present, and lifelong memories for the future. ssgreatbritain.org

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OZ n 10 December – 16 January, at Tobacco Factory Theatre The magic of the festive season returns as Bristol’s renowned Tobacco Factory Theatres invite audiences on a journey down the yellow brick road to the emerald city. Co-produced

by Tobacco Factory Theatres and awardwinning Pins and Needles Productions, OZ is a timeless tale, transporting audiences to lands both wicked and wonderful. This bold new adaptation is written by Sarah Henley, Emma Earle and Zoe Squire. Recommended for families and grown-ups aged 6+, the stellar cast bring to life this re-imagined classic of

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potent poppy fields, ferocious flying gargoyles and rogue rulers. tobaccofactorytheatres.com EXULTATE SINGERS: CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT n 11 & 15 December, St James Priory Exultate Singers performs an exquisite programme of Christmas music, the perfect preparation for the festive season. Come and enjoy a wonderfully atmospheric evening in the beautiful surroundings of Bristol's oldest building, St James Priory. exultatesingers.org CHRISTMAS SPECTACULARS n 18 & 20 December, St George’s Bristol Bristol Ensemble takes to the stage with City of Bristol Choir (18 December) and Exultate Singers (20 December) to bring Christmas cheer and festivities in this Christmas Spectacular. Under the baton of the inimitable David Ogden, this is always a wonderfully entertaining and uplifting evening of Christmas music and readings, with some magical Christmas music with choir items, audience participation and festive orchestral music. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL n 19 December, St George’s Bristol Get Christmas off to a brilliant start with music from The Snowman, an enchanting musical tale that captures the hearts of children and adults alike. With plenty of audience participation in festive favourites, this is a seasonal delight for all the family. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk FESTIVE FIESTA n 21 December, St George’s Bristol There will be plenty of audience participation in this sparkling festive concert featuring all your favourite carols, Christmas choral works and orchestral pieces. Come and enjoy a brilliantly festive and fun evening under the baton of David Ogden, with City of Bristol Choir and the Bristol Ensemble, certain to put you in the Christmas mood. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk n

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LOCAL EVENTS

WHAT’S ON IN DECEMBER Santas on the Run at Ashton Court

We Are Scientists at Trinity Centre

Photograph by Sophie Green

BRISTOL BRIDGE CLUB: SUPERVISED SESSIONS n Every Saturday, 10am – 12pm, via Zoom Bristol Bridge Club has been running free online supervised sessions with some teaching throughout the pandemic on Zoom and will continue to do so, every Saturday morning from 10am to 12 noon. To take part, go to Bristol Bridge Club’s website, click ‘Learn and Play’ and follow the links. bristolbridgeclub.co.uk

stained glass by some sixty artists from the UK and around the world. It explores a variety of subjects and themes that have affected, influenced, and inspired a range of contemporary glass artists, from the environment to the Covid-19 pandemic and the beauty of nature. allsaintsclifton.org A BETTER WORLD IS EDIBLE n Throughout December, We The Curious How does the food we eat affect the planet, and what can we do about it? Join We The Curious in the kitchen to cook up some scrumptious sustainable snacks, chat about the food we eat and changes we can make.

Go along to The Big Green Grill-off and become a sustainable chef as you invent and cook your own meat-free burgers, and investigate the properties and carbon footprint of different ingredients by making a mug cake, in The Missing Ingredient. wethecurious.org

BRISTOL BRIDGE CLUB: BEGINNERS’ LESSONS n Throughout December, Oldfield Road Bristol Bridge is back welcoming members and guests in their premises on Oldfield Road. The club is running beginner lessons on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings. Join Bristol Bridge Club for a taster session before signing up to 10 lessons, which costs £100 including the documents to cover the lessons. Contact teaching@bristolbridgeclub.co.uk

CREATIVE WELLBEING WORKSHOPS n 2, 9 & 16 December, Arnolfini CreativeShift CIC bring their creative wellbeing practices to Arnolfini, inviting anyone to take some time out for themselves to be creative in a relaxed and friendly environment. No previous experience needed. arnolfini.org.uk

CENTENARY EXHIBITION n Throughout December, All Saints Church This month, the National Exhibition of Contemporary Stained Glass is coming to All Saints Church Clifton, celebrating one hundred years of the British Society of Master Glass Painters. A national tour, visiting a number of selected venues, the exhibition showcases a striking display of 32 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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Bristol Palestine Film Festival will take place from 4–12 December. The festival will be screening a mix of shorts, feature films and documentaries in independent venues such as Watershed, The Cube, and The Bristol Palestine Museum. As well as the film screenings, the festival will feature a play for the first time: The Shroud Maker, written and directed by Ahmed Masoud, the festival’s BPFF 2019 writer in residence. bristolpff.org.uk SANTAS ON THE RUN n 5 December, Ashton Court Children’s Hospice South West’s spectacular Santas on the Run Goes Freestyle will be returning to Bristol on 5 December and organisers are hoping an army of fun runners and walkers will join them to raise cheer in their festive gear at Ashton Court. Nearly 1,300 people took part in the last festive 2k fun run around Bristol Harbourside in 2019, raising around £35,000 in support of the charity’s Charlton Farm children’s hospice in Wraxall. Sign up at: chsw.org.uk/santas WE ARE SCIENTISTS n 7 December, Trinity Centre We Are Scientists make their long-awaited return to the UK, following their biggest headline show in a decade. The iconic NYC rock band are flying high in the wake of their “50th anniversary” celebrations for debut album, With Love and Squalor, and have recently released their first new album, Huffy.

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Winter Lecture: The ORIGINS Festival and Indigenous interventions in museums with Bristol Museum

n 12 December, Penny Brohn UK Celebrate together with wonderful musicmaking and readings that invoke the spirit and meaning of Christmas. As the Winter Solstice approaches, this programme of evocative readings and wonderful music for female choir and harp-based ensemble encourages emotional, physical and spiritual renewal, all set in the beautiful environment of the Alan Long Garden Room at Penny Brohn UK’s National Centre. pennybrohn.org.uk

Formed by guitarist and vocalist, Keith Murray; bass guitarist, Chris Cain, and drummer Keith Carne, We Are Scientists are coming to Trinity Centre on 7 December. trinitybristol.org.uk LECTURE: THE ORIGINS FESTIVAL n 9 December, Priory Road Lecture Theatre Join Bristol Museum for December’s Winter Lecture to hear Michael Walling discuss the ORIGINS Festival and Indigenous interventions in museum spaces. Border Crossings’ ORIGINS Festival, which offers a space in Britain for Indigenous people to articulate their cultures, has been working closely with Indigenous artists and major museums to move these important conversations forward. bristolmuseums.org.uk

HARBOURSIDE UNPLUGGED WITH CONCORD DRIVE n 12 December, The Louisiana Go and soak up some of Bristol's up-andcoming live music with The Louisianna’s stripped back acoustic night. Expect live music from: Concord Drive, Dakota Simpson, Ben Nicholls and Libby Rollings. thelouisiana.net

ART IN THE TIME OF COVID-19: ARTISTS IN PRACTICE n 9 December, Bristol Ideas, online This year’s Autumn Art Lectures – brought to you by the University of Bristol Faculty of Arts in partnership with Bristol Ideas – are themed around ‘Art in the Time of COVID-19’. This series of lectures brings together contemporary artists, scholars and museum professionals to reflect on the impact of pandemics – both in the past and in the present – on the ways in which we create, engage with, and think about art and art-making. bristolideas.co.uk

DIABEL CISSOHKO BAND n 17 December, online Coming from a great line of Cissokho griots, Senegalese singer, songwriter and kora player Diabel Cissokho has spent his career exploring the blues roots of his griot traditions. With an exceptional musical pedigree and a virtuosic talent, he has toured internationally as Baaba Maal’s longtime kora player, and performed alongside world class musicians Youssou N’Dour, Pee Wee Ellis, Paul McCartney and many more. Now Cissokho’s mission is to bring his unique Afro Mandingue Blues style and transcendent Mandinkan melodies to the

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world, and be an ambassador for a new generation of Senegalese music. bristolbeacon.org HANDEL’S MESSIAH n 22 December, St George’s Bristol Bristol Ensemble and the Choir of Royal Holloway return to St George's Bristol to bring to life Handel's masterpiece, Messiah, in a semistaged performance. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk

LOOKING AHEAD SLAPSTICK FESTIVAL n 26–30 January, at various venues The UK’s biggest celebration of silent, visual and classic screen comedy returns to Bristol from 26–30 January with a celebrity-led programme of live events, taking place at Bristol Cathedral, the Redgrave Theatre, St George’s Bristol and Watershed. With the likes of Arthur Smith, Armando Iannucci, Steven Mangan, Jon Culshaw and Richard Herring preparing to grace the stages, this festival is not one to miss. For further details of the full line-up, ticket prices and booking links, visit slapstick.org.uk

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Reflection by Majed Ali, Kuwait Winner, Animal Portraits

Majed Ali glimpses the moment a mountain gorilla closes its eyes in the rain.

Majed trekked for four hours to meet Kibande, an almost 40-year-old mountain gorilla living in Uganda. “The more we climbed, the hotter and more humid it got,” Majed recalls. As cooling rain began to fall, Kibande remained in the open, seeming to enjoy the shower.

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Photograph: Majed Ali/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY

ONE WORLD

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition – the most prestigious photography event of its kind – has officially opened at M Shed. Here, we delve into some of the winners’ exceptional images, which showcase the breath-taking diversity of the natural world

T

he world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, now in its 57th year, has officially opened at M Shed. On loan from the Natural History Museum in London, Wildlife Photographer of the Year – the most prestigious photography event of its kind – showcases exceptional images of animal behaviour, spectacular species, and the breath-taking diversity of the natural world.

This year’s competition saw a record-breaking number of entries from professional and amateur photographers from 95 countries.

Each entry was judged anonymously on its creativity, originality, and technical excellence by an international panel of industry experts.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year was launched in 1965. In its first year it attracted 361 entries, today the competition receives over 50,000 submissions from all over the world. This year’s award-winning images will be displayed at M Shed until 5 June before embarking on an international tour. Here, we delve into some of the winners’ work…

• Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London. The exhibition will be on display at M Shed until 5 June 2022. Book tickets at: bristolmuseums.org.uk Lynx on the threshold

by Sergio Marijuán, Spain Highly commended, Urban Wildlife

Photograph: Sergio Marijuán/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

A young Iberian lynx pauses in the doorway of the abandoned hayloft where it was raised, on a farm in eastern Sierra Morena, Spain. He will soon be leaving his mother’s territory. Once widespread on the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal, by 2002 there were fewer than 100 lynx in Spain and none in Portugal. Their decline was driven by hunting, killing by farmers, habitat loss and loss of prey (they eat mainly rabbits).

Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts – reintroduction, rewilding, prey boosting and the creation of natural corridors and tunnels – Iberian lynx have escaped extinction and, though still endangered, are fully protected.

Only recently, with numbers increasing, have they begun to take advantage of human environment.

Photograph: Lasse Kurkela/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

High-flying jay

by Lasse Kurkela, Finland Winner, 15-17 Years Lasse Kurkela watches a Siberian jay fly to the top of a spruce tree to stash its food.

Lasse wanted to give a sense of scale in his photograph of the Siberian jay, tiny among the old-growth spruce-dominated forest. He used pieces of cheese to get the jays accustomed to his remotely controlled camera and to encourage them along a particular flight path.

Siberian jays use old trees as larders. Their sticky saliva helps them glue food such as seeds, berries, small rodents and insects high up in the holes and crevices of the bark and among hanging lichens.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Brent Stirton’s photographs document the work of the Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre, which rescues and rehabilitates primates orphaned by poaching. Many staff here are survivors of military conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Working at the centre helps with their own recovery.

The director of the centre sits with a newly rescued chimp as she slowly introduces it to the others. Young chimps are given one-to-one care to ease their psychological and physical trauma. These chimps are lucky. Less than one in ten are rescued after having seen the adults in their group killed for meat. Most have experienced starvation and suffering.

Photograph: Brent Stirton/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

The healing touch, from Community care

by Brent Stirton, South Africa Winner, Photojournalist Story Award

Cool time, from Land time for sea bears

by Martin Gregus, Canada/Slovakia Winner, Rising Star Portfolio Award Martin Gregus spent three weeks on his boat using various techniques to photograph polar bears around Hudson Bay, Canada. Coming ashore in summer, they live mainly off their fat reserves and, with less pressure to find food, become much more sociable. While not wanting to detract from their plight in the face of climate change, Martin wanted to show polar bears in a different light.

On a hot summer’s day, two female polar bears took to the shallow intertidal waters to cool off and play. Martin used a drone to capture this moment. For him, the heart shape symbolises the apparent sibling affection between them and “the love we as people owe to the natural world.”

Photograph: Martin Gregus/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Stefano Unterthiner watches two Svalbard reindeer battle for control of a harem.

Stefano followed these reindeer during the rutting season. Watching the fight, he felt immersed in “the smell, the noise, the fatigue and the pain.” The reindeer clashed antlers until the dominant male (left) chased its rival away, securing the opportunity to breed.

Reindeer are widespread around the Arctic, but this subspecies occurs only in Svalbard. Populations are affected by climate change, where increased rainfall can freeze on the ground, preventing access to plants that would otherwise sit under soft snow.

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Photograph: Stefano Unterthiner/Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Head to head

by Stefano Unterthiner, Italy Winner, Behaviour: Mammals

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EXHIBITIONS

STATE OF THE ART Pink Lady® Food Photographer of the Year, Royal Photographic Society, until 12 December Pink Lady® Food Photographer of the Year, in its tenth anniversary year, is currently exhibiting for the very first time outside of London at The Royal Photographic Society. The world’s leading awards for food photography and film has over 20 categories, ranging from the politics of food to food portraiture, and captures a great sweep of stories and cultures. An exhibition, drawn from thousands of entries from almost 80 countries, will be on display until 12 December; free for all to enjoy.

This year’s global judging panel, chaired by legendary food photographer, David Loftus, included Fiona Shields, head of photography at Guardian News Media; Simone Zanoni, chef at Restaurant Le George at the Four Seasons Paris; Vitalie Taittinger, president of Champagne Taittinger; and Rein Skullerud, head of the photo unit at the World Food Programme. The World Food Programme recently received the Nobel Peace Prize and is a longstanding partner of the awards.

• pinkladyfoodphotographeroftheyear.com; rps.org Image: Lumière d'automne by Deborah Trocchia from Italy. Deborah won the top prize in the Food Influencers category

Coming Up for Air: Stephen Gill – A Retrospective, Arnolfini, throughout December Arnolfini is currently celebrating over thirty years of extraordinary practice from Bristol-born photographer Stephen Gill, drawing together new previously unexhibited work, alongside works from other iconic series including Hackney Flowers, Buried, Talking to Ants, Night Procession, Pigeons, Coexistence and Coming up for Air. Also featuring the first UK presentation of images from award winning photographic series and book The Pillar, the exhibition will explore Gill’s rich sense of place, leading us through the flea markets and towpaths of Hackney Wick in London, to his current rural surroundings amidst the Swedish countryside. Free entry.

Exhibition slots bookable in advance. Walk-ins may be available on the day.

• arnolfini.org.uk Image: From ‘The Pillar’ 2015 – 2019 © Stephen Gill

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CLIFTON CERAMICS & FINE JEWELLERY

SS. GREAT BRITAIN EXCLUSIVE DESIGN FROM MOORCROFT POTTERY LIMITED TO ONLY 30 PIECES. MOORCROFT POTTERY • FINE JEWELLERY • ENAMELS

For more information visit www.cliftonceramics.co.uk 0117 373 0256 • 58 The Mall, Clifton Village, BS8 4JG

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EXHIBITIONS

Varekai (Wherever) - RWA Pop-up Exhibition Off-site, Royal West of England Academy (RWA), until 6 January 2022 RWA is taking a selection of vibrant and colourful artworks from its permanent collection to community venues across Bristol, as a pop-up exhibition, during the time that the RWA building is closed for renovation. The title, Varekai, is a Romani word meaning 'wherever'. It comes from one of the paintings in the exhibition which depicts Le Cirque du Soleil performing a show of the same name.

The exhibition comprises of nine paintings that all have great energy, vibrancy and a distinct sense of the outdoors about them. They were chosen to inspire and delight, as we all come out of lockdown and reconnect with each other and the places around us. The real places depicted include a mine in Wales, the pier at Weston Super Mare and the streets of Bristol, whilst others are dreamlike and imaginary. Kite-flying in Rajasthan and a French circus performance are captured in bright colour, and there are also bold paintings of plants and creatures to enjoy.

• rwa.org.uk Image: June Berry RWA NEAC Hon. RE RWS (b.1924), Le Cirque du Soleil Performing ‘Varekai’, 2011, watercolour, 48 x 63cm. RWA Collection © RWA (Royal West of England Academy)

The Art of Christmas, Clifton Contemporary, 3 – 31 December Erupting with colour, light, texture and form, Clifton Contemporary has made sure its Christmas 2021 exhibition is a festival for art lovers: a celebration for midwinter and the future.

Throughout December, the gallery is featuring a selection of new work by exciting gallery artists, from the mesmerising original prints of Chuck Elliott, to the elegant, timeless bronzes by Julian Cox, the atmospheric land and seascapes of Hannah Woodman, the intense layered abstracts of Ellie Preston and the textured ceramics by Trevor Lillistone.

• cliftoncontemporaryart.co.uk Image: 'Arrowhead IV' bronze (with ebonised wood plinth) by Julian Cox

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Winter Exhibition, Rainmaker Gallery, throughout December This year’s winter show at Rainmaker Gallery features a broad range of contemporary Native American art: Pacific Northwest Coast formline serigraphs from Preston Singletary, meticulous acrylic paintings by Marla Allison and Jasmine Coe, minimalist serigraphs by Jordan Ann Craig, fine art photographic portraiture from Cara Romero, a digital composite photographic print by the late Shan Goshorn, mercurial tintype portraits by Kali Spitzer and Will Wilson, sepia figurative landscapes by Zoe Mariah Urness and a silver halide print by Eugene Tapahe. Each work of art has been selected for a seasonal palette of red, orange, black and white.

For over 30 years Rainmaker has been the only dedicated Native Art gallery in the UK but its Bristol space is under new ownership and it needs to relocate. This is the gallery’s chance to find a premises befitting the world-class art and artists that it represents. To donate to Rainmaker, visit: gofund.me/ae873161 • rainmakerart.co.uk Image: EAGLE + KILLER WHALE limited edition serigraph by Preston Singletary, Tlingit Nation

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THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

BUBBLE RING



An absolute ‘classic’ diamond bubble ring.

18ct white gold, 1ct diamonds, £8,395 Exclusive to Nicholas Wylde.

Web: nicholaswylde.com

THE DECADENCE COLLECTION AT CLIFTON ROCKS 9ct yellow Fairmined gold, set with Canadamark certified diamonds.

From £222.

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Web: cliftonrocks.co.uk

GO VINTAGE

 ENDLESS EARRINGS

This superb 1.00ct diamond Edwardian platinum old mine cut diamond engagement ring is a fine example of early 20th century jewellery available from Lillicoco. Featuring a fabulous 1.00ct H/I colour vs clarity diamond at the centre, crowned by a domed profile and a sprinkling of antique diamonds.

The diamond in the centre is absolutely fierce, making you instantly fall in love with this incredible ring.£3,375.

Web: lillicoco.com

Large Silver 'Endless' Hoop Earrings, Handmade from recycled silver, these large hoop earrings are hand etched with the word 'endless' and finished with a polished edge that create a soft drama. RRP £89. Visit Diana Porter for these and so much more.

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A DROP OF GOLDEN SUN ‘Helios’ Sterling silver and 18ct gold Sun ray pendant with chain. It is simply Stunning. £269

Web: dianaporter.co.uk

TIME TO SPARKLE

RAINDROP EARRINGS

Diamond solitaire rings from £400, available from Kemps Jewellers.

These native American Indian, satin repoussé raindrop earrings in argentium silver were handmade by Chris Pruitt, Chiricahau Apache and Laguna Pueblo tribes, USA. £255.

Web: kempsjewellers.com



Web: kyddandkydd.co.uk

Web: rainmakerart.co.uk HOW MANY GOLD RINGS? Beautiful 18ct yellow gold hammered stacking rings set with rainbow sapphires.

Starting from £875 each.

Web: goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

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THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

GIvE THE GIFT OF ART Support local charity and art gallery RWA this Christmas, and choose a workshop or course for your loved one from the new Drawing School term. Suitable for all creative abilities (starting in Jan 2022).

Vouchers available. Prices from £12.

Image by Jo Hounsome

Web: rwa.org.uk

EMILY DENNYS CERAMICS

BRING A SPLASH OF COLOUR INTO YOUR LIFE.

See a wonderful selection of beautiful handmade lamps, vases and wall Panels all made by local ceramicist Emily Dennys.

Prices range £12-£250.

Milk Jug by Hanne Rysgaard, £48.

MADE IN BRISTOL GIFT FAIRS spotlight over 200 makers across 2 gift-packed weekends in December: 04 + 05 Dec and 11 + 12 Dec.

Web: emilydennysshop.com

Web: madeinbristolgiftfair.co.uk

ADOPT AN ANIMAL

WALL ART PRINT EDITIONS

Wild Place Project’s new bear, zebra, giraffe and ring-tailed lemur adoption packs make a perfect present and help support conservation work, £30; wildplace.org.uk

Ethereal Skies by Sian Storey. £175 Limited edition 60cms x 60cms Giclee print on 285gsm Portrait white paper, with deckled edge. Edition of 40,

Web: wildplace.org.uk

Web: upfest.co.uk/product/ethereal-skies

ARNOLFINI POSTER PRINT

THINGS OF GREAT BEAUTY

New British Sculpture, 1968. Reproduced from Arnolfini's Archive of past exhibition posters, these high quality prints showcase Arnolfini's unique story and are available exclusively from Arnolfini Bookshop.

Digital print on 200gsm Somerset Watercolour paper, 600 x 418mm. £20.00.

Find this and much more at:

Stoneware bowl crafted by Trevor Lillistone - (21cm diameter) with volcanic white glazed exterior and orange glazed interior.

Price: £80, available from Clifton Contemporary Art. Web: cliftoncontemporaryart.co.uk

Web: bookshop.arnolfini.org.uk

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THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

JUST SAY YUUP...

TO JEWELLERY MAKING Silver clay pendant & earring workshop £65 per person An accessible entry to jewellery making!

Work with silver clay, made from fine particles of silver, and easily create something unique and sentimental which is then fired into pure silver. You’ll learn the fundamentals and have a coffee and cake break before getting stuck in. Book online at: Web: Yuup.co

MELLOR II TRAINER WHITE. In a special collaboration with British footwear band Goral, Bristol based Benedict Raven have produced a premium footwear trainer, hand crafted in England from premium leather. With a passion for longevity, the Mellor II is a timeless, minimalist trainer featuring the innovative Blake stitch construction made to last, be repaired and then last some more, £295.

By Bristol-based company Bond Morgan Limited, these bags are made in England and designed with sustainability and environmental impact as the main objective. They are also very cool and super capacious, £359.

Web: benedictraven.co.uk

Web: bondmorgan.com

BAGS OF STYLE

FOR CURIOUS MINDS Science centre and educational charity We The Curious have launched a new online shop. Featuring science kits, gadgets, space-themed gifts and toys, everything is ethically sourced and sustainable.

Prices range from £7 – £30.

Web: shop.wethecurious.org

A VERY TASTY TREAT

Web: singlevariety.co.uk

LIGHT & SHADE

Images by Faye Hedges

Single Variety Co make award-winning chilli jams and fruit preserves right here in Bristol. Using all natural ingredients, they work with British farmers to source the highest-quality produce, resulting in a range of delicious sweet and savoury jams which are amazing with cheese, in recipes or even just on their own. Perfect for foodie friends and families you can choose from their wise range of chilli or fruit jams, as well as their specially created gift boxes for the ultimate foodlovers Christmas gift.

Moorcroft lamps complete with silk shade, handmade in Stoke. Other designs and prices from £400.

Available from Clifton Ceramics & Fine Jewellery.

Web: cliftonceramics.co.uk.

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THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

PERSONAL STYLING TREATS Something stylish to unwrap Christmas morning that won’t need to be returned.

Give your loved one the gift of a bespoke personal style experience this Christmas with a voucher from LIFESTYLISH, vouchers from £50.

Web: lifestylish.co.uk

STARS FROM THE EAST Oriental Rugs of Bath is home to an eclectic collection of authentically handcrafted rugs, kilims and furnishings from the Middle and Far East. Visit the showroom to discover a fine range of cushions and beautifully handwoven rugs. This kilim cushion is a limited edition but a fine example of a vast range, it will last for years and add a touch of eastern magic to any room.

BRISTMAS IN A BOX Support local this year with Boxlocal’s award-winning Bristol-based Christmas Hampers. They are terrific and contain so many lovely local products.

Prices starting from £15.

❼

Web: boxlocal.co.uk

Web: orientalrugsofbath.com

JUST SAY YUUP... TO RUM History of rum tasting at Nadu £25 per person.

Explore the history of rum styles from Jamaican to French Caribbean and Cuban to modernist. Take part in the tasting challenges and battle to win your own bespoke Nadu cocktail.

Book online at: Web: Yuup.co

GRIPPING READS THE LOVE OF A SINGLE PARENT Written by Bristol author Emily Down, and illustrated by Lou Collis. This is an entertaining and poignant children’s book featuring a single parent family – Beautiflully presented, The Dinosaur’s Big Day Out is the perfect gift for a young child dealing with parental separation, £8.99 from Waterstones.

Two new books from Bath-based author, Christopher Joll. Black Ice (£15.00) tells the extraordinary story of double-amputee and Afghanistan veteran, Corie Mapp, who went on to become the winner of the para bobsleigh World Cup. The Imperial Impresario (£25.00) takes a wholly new look at Napoleon’s tangible legacy and reveals some extraordinary facts about their present-day values. Both books available from:

Web: popgoesperfection.co.uk

Web: nineelmsbooks.co.uk

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THE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

ARTISAN CRAFTS & DECORATIONS Artisan Homeware is a Bristol online homewares store sourcing traditional craftsmanship for contemporary interiors. Alongside beautiful handmade stoneware from Poland, a new textile collection designed by Anna Lisa Smith (Libertys of London, Tate Edit Series) brings timeless design to luxuriously thick Merino blankets and cushions woven on traditional jacquard looms in West Yorkshire. Ceramics from £9.95 - £130, Blankets £225. Visit the Christmas shop.

Web:.artisanhomeware.co.uk LET THE SNOW GROMIT FIGURINE

CHERRY STONE PILLOWS WARMLII ‘HUGGER’ £26.99 Drawing on Swiss tradition and childhood memories, Bea—founder of warmlii—has created a range of beautifully handcrafted heated pillows, ideal for alleviating aches and pains. The pillows are made using ethically sourced materials that have minimal impact on the environment, including cherrystones (a by-product from the German sour cherry harvest) and 100% organic cotton. Even the packaging is made using 100% biodegradable UK-grown corn starch.

When heated, the pillows give off the gentle smell of warm cherry pie — the ultimate comfort gift!

Let The Snow Gromit take you on a moonlit flight over snowy fields and sleeping villages, across star-spangled oceans and through the aurora … all the way to a magical party, where you are the special guest! (Just don’t forget to wrap up warm!)

Inspired by his beloved children’s book ‘The Snowman’, which was made into an animated film in 1982 and has been televised every Christmas since, Raymond Briggs dressed Gromit in The Snowman’s familiar green hat and scarf, coal buttons, and tangerine nose! During the trail he could be found enchanting children and adults alike at Junction 3 library. £45

PRINCE OF WALES HIGHGROVE HERITAGE SCARF Highgrove and The Prince's Foundation have collaborated with Johnstons of Elgin to create ‘The Highgrove Heritage Scarf.’ Sustainably sourced with complete wool traceability, the Heritage Scarf is made from 100% ultrafine RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) merino wool from Australia, £89.00.

There are a lot more great treats to be found at the Highrove Christmas shop.

Web: gromitunleashedshop.org.uk

Web: betterfood.co.uk/local-christmas-gift-guide/

Web: highgrovegardens.com

A LIMITED-EDITION CIDER FROM THATCHERS

WELL HAMPERED – GETAWRIGGLEON

If you’re looking to treat someone with an extra tasty gift this Christmas, why not try one of the new limited-edition Thatchers Cider Barn range. Each year, the family cider maker delights with short run ciders.This year sees the very welcome return of the award-winning Redstreak (voted the World’s Best Sparkling Cider in 2017). This 8.4% single variety cider is made from local Somerset Redstreak apples. High in tannin and big on flavour, this popular cider has a smooth feel and deep rich colour. It will be available from November, price £2.55 for a 500ml bottle. Available from its Cider Shop in Sandford, Somerset, or online at:

Christmas is the time for giving, and not only do Wriggle offer expertly chosen hampers of food and drink, but they also offer non-edible gifts including customised notebooks, tankards, tote-bags and more, each with the option of adding your company logo. From £40 Web: getawriggleon.com

Web. thatcherscider.co.uk

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SHOPPING | CHRISTMAS

BOOK OF FAIRIES Fairy Tale of Bristol – The Fairies of Brandon Hill by Bristol author, Talie Ashbee. Beautifuly written and illustrated, it’s an adventure around the histori heart of Bristol.

Web: natalieashbee.com or: fairytaleofbristol.myonline.store/

THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER Give 'Em A Laugh with a voucher for Bristol Slapstick Festival. Options include individual shows starting from £8.50 (£5 concession) or two choices of pass – £92 grants admission to all Watershed events, plus Slapstick Divas and the Silent Film Gala, at Bristol Cathedral (17 in all) and £186 secures seats at everything bar the Paddington event (26 events + a souvenir T-shirt and pin badge).

Web: slapstick.org.uk

FAMILY TIES

BY SCRAGG DESIGNS Fine artist Michelle Scragg creates so many beautiful pieces; her breathtaking paintings, posters and designs are a joy to see and all celebrate bold, playful colours which has become her statement style. Michelle also works her designs into clothing, scarves and ties. Shown here is a silk bow tie, £45 and the long silk tie is £67.

If you love colour, find out about Michelle’s work and see more of her delightful art online at:

KNICKERS BORN FROM NATURE Introducing Bedstraw + Madder, a new British label making super soft organic cotton knickers. Zero Chemicals. 100% plant dyes. Ethical, sustainable and generally very very good for everyone – we love these pretty knickers and they don’t cost the Earth! Prices from £11.

Web: michellescragg.com

❻

Web: bedstrawandmadder.com

CREATE YOUR OWN SPA AT HOME Gift an at-home spa experience with these professional-grade skin tools.

Prices range from £14.99 - £69.99.

Use code: BRISTOLBATH15 for 15% off at Web: skinabode.co.uk

CBD INFUSED NIGHT CREAM Nourish and restore your skin at the end of the day.

Packed with natural ingredients, this nourishing deepimpact CBD moisturiser is a hydration hero.

150mg CBD (0.3%) | 50ML Jar, £40. For this and many more wonderful CBD based products Visit: Web: ethicacbd.com

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COLUMN | CHRIS YEO ON ANTIQUES

Expert opinion From Chris Yeo, Valuer at Clevedon Salerooms and regular expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow

All I want for Christmas is a Jelly Mould

A

little Christmas robin tells me that you’ve decided to cast caution to the wind and throw a festive party par excellence.

How wonderful! You’ve printed the invitations, the playlist has been organised and the bar well-stocked, which just leaves the important matter of what to serve your expectant guests. Might I suggest jelly? You may be sceptical but hear me out. Having spent decades in the gastronomic wasteland, the wibbly-wobbly stuff is shaking off its homespun image and enjoying a renaissance amongst the influencers of social media. For once, I’m in total agreement with the too-cool-for-school brigade. After all, who but the most po-faced amongst us hasn’t been captivated by the sight of a spectacular shimmering jelly? Those in search of seasonal ‘wow’ factor, should look no further.

Its unfortunate reputation as childrens’ party fodder belies the fact that for centuries jelly was synonymous with the most ambitious haute cuisine. During the Victorian era jelly making reached heights of gravitydefying brilliance, as chefs in the great aristocratic houses and best London hotels competed to create showstopping wobblers that were as much design statements as culinary ones. Thanks to the Industrial Revolution, the British became undisputed masters of the jelly mould.

Manufacturers adapted the die-stamping techniques of their colleagues in the silver trade to the mass-production of copper moulds in elaborate shapes – each one a miniature architectural masterpiece – lined with tin.

The tin was important because it stopped the taste of the copper tainting the jelly and, more importantly, prevented your guests from dropping down dead with verdigris poisoning. By the late 19th century, manufacturers were illustrating hundreds of designs in their catalogues – fantastical, multi-tiered geometric crowns, turreted castles with scrolling minarets, embossed with all manner of birds, animals, fruits and flowers.

So esteemed were British jelly moulds that chefs from the Continent were known to cross the Channel in search of the ultimate mould. They are still. Collectors have been known to pay over £1,000 for rare designs.

If I find one in my stocking, I shall be very happy. Merry Christmas! ■ • clevedonsalerooms.com; @chrisyeo_antiques (Instagram)

Image courtesy of Canterbury Auction Gallery

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GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF

All images courtesy of Channel 4

“There are no words, I am speechless for once. All I can think of is the reaction from my mum and dad,” said Giuseppe moments after collecting the trophy

The year of Giuseppe As The Great British Bake Off crowns its 2021 winner, Bristol and Italy celebrate their first ever champion. Millie Bruce-Watt catches up with the man himself, Giuseppe Dell’Anno

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fter 10 episodes, 30 challenges, and a heap of Hollywood Handshakes, Great British Bake Off crowned the winner of its twelfth series last week (23 November). Much to the delight of us Bristolians, it was our very own Giuseppe Dell’Anno that walked away with the famous cake stand trophy. The first Italian baker – and the first person from Bristol – to ever win the competition, Giuseppe was stunned to hear his name called in the final moments of the show, frozen in disbelief as runners-up Crystelle Pereira and Chigs Parmar celebrated his win.

“There are no words, I am speechless for once,” he said moments after accepting the award. “All I can think of is the reaction from my mum and dad. The fact is that everything I have done to deserve this comes from his heritage – it’s the best thank you note I can possibly send him. He is going through a very bad time health-wise, so I think this is going to be a great boost.”

Since the filming of the series took place between May and July 2021, the 45-year-old engineer was able to watch the final episode with his friends and family on a big screen at Gloucester Old Spot pub on Gloucester Road. Upon hearing the news of Giuseppe’s win, we couldn’t wait to catch up with him to chat all-things Bristol. Proud to be a local resident, we discovered more about his incredible Bake Off journey, his love for his heritage, his favourite local restaurants and, most importantly, what he’s planning to cook this Christmas.

“There were people from the production team with me at the Gloucester Old Spot,” he told us. “Most of them had been in the bubble with me during the filming of the show and have become new 52 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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friends. There is no doubt that, without their much needed confidence injections, I would have had a much harder time ploughing through my occasional crisis. So having them there, alongside my family, made what would have been an intense moment even more special.”

There is a quirky vibe in this city that makes it very special: I particularly like the combination of strong Bristolian pride with welcoming international openness that makes it, to my eyes, a unique place to live

“I have had so much support from Bristol and Italy. I have had lots of local people getting in touch and thanking me for putting Bristol on the map but, equally, Italians all over the UK, saying it’s great to be representing our culture in such a high profile show. It has been really heart warming.”

When asked about where we could find Bristol’s best pizza and ice cream, Giuseppe had no problem directing us to his top spot. “In those rare occasions when we manage to go out as a family, I find that the environment, the flavour and the quality of Franco Manca are as close as you can get to a traditional Italian pizzeria. The kids love ice

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cream and Swoon is certainly our favourite spot when it comes to gelato, and also conveniently close to the pizza place! The entirety of the catering industry in the last 18 months has suffered tremendously, so my thoughts are with the whole category and those that are struggling to keep their businesses afloat.”

This year, the bakers made everything from malt loaf and pavlovas to fabulous focaccias and baklava. In the final episode, judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith set three challenges that would test every aspect of the finalists’ prowess. In classic Bake Off style, Giuseppe, Crystelle and Chigs had to make the perfect carrot cake, produce Belgian buns and design a showstopping Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, demonstrating four different baking disciplines. Giuseppe made a tearand-share bread filled with chocolate and hazelnut shaped in the form of a giant mushroom; mango and passionfruit ‘drink me’ panna cottas; orange and fig heart-shaped muffins; and asparagus and pea-filled choux pastries shaped like a caterpillar. After a disastrous moment with the oven, Giuseppe received rave reviews from the judges.

“Prue and Paul said that [my showstopper] was delicious and had stunning flavours. Prue took one of the panna cottas for her lunch, so that was a big moment for me! When Prue steals one of your desserts it doesn’t get better than that.”

After the trophy was firmly in Giuseppe’s hands, Paul revealed that the Italian baker had been a “choux-in” from the outset. “The first time I walked into the tent during the first signature I saw his mini rolls, I thought that looks like our winner, you could see the heart and soul going into his baking. He has done an incredible job,” he said.

Throughout the challenges, Giuseppe impressed the judges and viewers alike with his meticulous precision, receiving two Hollywood Handshakes and two Star Baker awards. “My best moment in the tent was the first handshake I got from Paul for my focaccia,” he explained. “It meant a lot to me: the flavours in that bake brought back lots of very personal memories. It was without a doubt the most intense and powerful moment in the tent.”

Like last year, the series was filmed in the grounds of Down Hall in Essex, where the bakers, judges, presenters and crew members formed a Covid-secure bubble and lived together for the duration of filming.

The experience undoubtedly allowed the bakers to develop genuine relationships. “Whoever did the casting did a fabulous job,” said Giuseppe. “I have never felt so close to such a diverse group of people in such a short time! My fellow bakers were truly a bunch of exceptionally nice, well-tempered, kind, generous and friendly people, all with a phenomenal sense of humour too.”

But how did Giuseppe keep it a secret for so long, we hear you ask?

“My neighbours must have thought that I had moved out… I told my colleagues that I had leftover leave to take and that I was going to be away from the office. The working from home arrangement has made the whole disappearance much easier to hide… It was much more

Giuseppe with his showstopper bake. “Prue took one of the panna cottas for her lunch, so that was a big moment for me! When Prue steals one of your desserts it doesn’t get better than that.”

difficult to find an excuse to tell my kids. I could not possibly tell a four, six and eight-year-old that I was going to be a baker on Bake Off, or the whole village would have found out in no time. So I told them that I was away ‘working’ in London.”

According to both Paul and Prue, this year’s final was the hardest they have had to judge – but it was to be Giuseppe’s year. “I feel like it’s been a great year for Italy,” said Giuseppe about his home nation, which also won the Eurovision song contest, Euro 2020 and the 100m final at the Tokyo Olympics this year. “Dell’Anno is my surname which translates in English to ‘of the year’ – and I feel this has certainly been my year.”

As for the biggest lesson he learned along the way: “I have learnt to take myself less seriously,” he admitted. “My job and my background have trained me to always be exact, accurate and… serious. Very much what you’d expect from an engineer, after all. In the tent, I have enjoyed liberating the more creative side of me and I have learned to embrace what I am.”

Over the festive season, you’ll mainly catch Giuseppe spending time with his family. “Christmas in our household is all about simple traditions and family time. Ice skating is a long standing family favourite but, more recently, a visit to the Westonbirt Arboretum has become a new Christmas must-have.”

As for Bristol itself: “There is a quirky vibe in this city that makes it very special: I particularly like the combination of strong Bristolian pride with welcoming international openness that makes it, to my eyes, a unique place to live.”

With Christmas now only weeks away, we couldn’t help but ask what he was planning to cook. “Traditionally, we have a seafoodbased dinner on Christmas eve and then the traditional home-made lasagna with a roast on Christmas day. This year, picking the dessert will be much more difficult as I have the feeling that a shop-bought panettone just won't cut it.”

As viewers learned during the final episode, Giuseppe’s baking inspiration is his father. “He used to be a professional chef and a passionate baker,” he recalled. “I started baking when I first became a dad and the main reason was that I wanted to give my kids the same pleasure and memories I had in my childhood through the sweets my dad used to make for us.”

Now, as Giuseppe joins the exclusive winners’ club, he looks forward to the opportunities that may come his way but, ultimately, he hopes he can do one thing for his family. “I would love to crystallise my dad and family’s heritage in a cookery book of Italian baking – one that would draw from my family and their love for baking. It runs through our blood. It would be good to know that there would be a cook book out there for posterity for the Dell’Anno family.”

We’re sure we speak for Bristol when we say: we can’t wait to read it. It’s been a pleasure, Giuseppe – we will miss you on our screens and we wish you all the best!

Ú

The first Italian baker and the first person from Bristol to ever win the competition, Giuseppe was frozen in disbelief as runners-up Crystelle Pereira and Chigs Parmar celebrated his win

• Catch up on series 12 of Great British Bake Off at channel4.com

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GIUSEPPE DELL'ANNO v3.qxp_Layout 2 26/11/2021 16:15 Page 3

GIUSEPPE’S ‘TORTA CAMILLA’ CARROT CAKE METHOD

For the sponges: 4 large eggs 300g light brown soft sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 160ml sunflower oil 375g carrots, grated Finely grated zest of 2 unwaxed oranges 450g ’00’ flour, sifted 1½ tbsp baking powder 1 tbsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp salt 180g ground almonds 225g fresh orange juice

1. Heat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/350°F/ Gas 4. Grease three 20cm cake tins and base-line with baking paper.

2. Make the sponges. Whisk the eggs, sugar and vanilla extract together in a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment until tripled in volume.

3. With the mixer running, pour in the oil. Add the grated carrots and orange zest and whisk to incorporate.

4. Switch to the beater attachment. Add the flour, baking powder, spices, salt and ground almonds to the egg mixture and set the mixer running on its the lowest speed, mixing until all the ingredients are just incorporated.

For the fig and walnut jam: 600g figs, quartered Finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed orange 150g jam sugar ½ tsp pectin 40g walnuts, chopped For the cream-cheese frosting: 110g unsalted butter, softened 200g icing sugar 1 tsp vanilla paste finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed orange 190g full-fat cream cheese

6. Divide the cake batter between the three prepared tins. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of each sponge comes out clean. Leave the sponges to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack.

Turn the sponges the right way up and leave them to cool completely.

7. Meanwhile, make the fig and walnut jam.

Tip the figs, orange zest, sugar and pectin into a heavy-based saucepan set over a medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sugar has dissolved. Increase the heat and boil the mixture for 10 minutes, until thick. Remove the pan from the heat and set the jam aside to cool – it will set as it cools.

Once cool, stir through the chopped walnuts.

For the candied walnuts: 50g walnuts 25g maple syrup

8. Make the cream-cheese frosting. Beat the butter and icing sugar in a stand mixer fitted with the beater, on medium speed for 3–5 minutes, until pale and creamy. Add the vanilla and orange zest, and beat again to incorporate.

For the candied carrots: 1 large carrot 100g caster sugar To decorate: 1 fig, cut into 8 wedges

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5. Slowly pour in the orange juice, mixing until all the liquid is fully incorporated.

9. Add the cream cheese and beat to incorporate,

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being careful not to overmix. Transfer three quarters of the frosting into the large piping bag. Divide the remaining frosting between the three piping bags fitted with a nozzle and chill until required.

10. Make the candied walnuts. Toss the walnuts in the maple syrup and tip them onto the lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden. Leave the walnuts to cool completely.

11. Make the candied carrots. Using either a mandolin or vegetable peeler, peel the carrot into long strips. Tip the sugar and 100ml of water into a medium saucepan set over a medium heat and bring the syrup to the boil. Add the carrot strips, reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until softened.

Remove the carrots from the syrup using a slotted spoon and wrap each piece around the greased handle of a wooden spoon. Leave the strips to harden and air-dry, then gently slide them off the handles.

12. Snip the end of the large piping bag. Pipe dots of the cream-cheese frosting onto a cake plate or stand.

Place one of the sponges on the stand or plate and pipe frosting on top, spreading it evenly to the edges with a palette knife. Pipe a ring of frosting around the edge of the sponge and fill in the middle with half the fig and walnut jam. Place a second sponge on top and repeat.

13. Add the final sponge and pipe a generous layer of frosting on top. Smooth it out with a palette knife to an even layer.

14. Pipe thick stripes of frosting around the side of the cake and scrape away the excess with a cake scraper to give a semi-naked effect.

15. To decorate, using the icing in the piping bags fitted with nozzles, pipe differently shaped kisses of icing to create a crescent shape on the top of the cake.

Decorate with the fresh fig pieces, candied walnuts and carrot curls to finish. ■ • For more Bake Off recipes, head to thegreatbritishbakeoff.co.uk

Photography by Kate Whitaker / © Love Productions Ltd

INGREDIENTS

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With Good Sixty Shop fresh festive produce, artisinal gift hampers & much more from Bristol’s best independent traders.

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FOOD NEWS V5.qxp_Layout 2 26/11/2021 16:44 Page 1

FOOD & DRINK TASTY TIDBITS FROM THE CITY’S RESTAURANTS, CHEFS AND PRODUCERS

A TASTE OF INDIA TO YOUR DOOR

WHISKY CLUB Just in time for Christmas, Bristol-based Circumstance Distillery has launched a brand-new membership that will allow members a guaranteed opportunity to purchase pre-releases, including the highly anticipated Circumstance whisky release in 2022.

The Circ Club offers a wide-range of benefits and exclusive special offers from discounts for tours and tastings to access to club member sales throughout the year. Perfect for Christmas gifting this festive season the annual membership is £25 a year.

Liam Hirt, founder of Circumstance Distillery said: “I'm thrilled we have created an exclusive spirits members club.

We are all looking forward to learning together, growing our quality portfolio and having a lot of fun along the way!”

The membership is capped to a maximum of 100 people and once the club is full, new members will be added to the waiting list where they can join once a new spot becomes available.

Founded in 2015, Kricket is a collection of Indianinspired restaurants. It currently has three sites in London and a delivery service born out of the pandemic. With such a vibrant culinary scene in the city, it only made sense that Bristol was Kricket’s first venture outside of the capital.

Available only via Deliveroo, you can order some of the restaurant’s signature dishes and takeaway favourites straight to your door. The team recommend starting off with Keralan Fried Chicken – a dish that has been on the menu since day one and is a firm favourite amongst diners. Try the prawn moilee for mains: fresh king prawns in a sauce made from curry leaves, coconut, coriander and lime. Whether you're having a meal for one or a party for 10 there is enough on offer for all!

• kricket.co.uk/delivery

ARTISANAL GROCERIES This festive season and beyond, Good Sixty is offering all the convenience of an online supermarket but with the myriad of benefits of shopping local. Customers are free to browse and buy from over 50 much-loved Bristol traders including Papadeli, Better Food and Grape & Grind. Select from as many different places as you like, simply dropping your goods into one basket before enjoying a singlepayment process at checkout. Customers will get their shopping via zero-emissions delivery at a time that suits.

Good Sixty got its name from the idea that every pound you spend with a local independent store or producer has a 60% greater economic benefit to your local community than spending it with a large supermarket.

• To browse and buy through Good Sixty visit: goodsixty.co.uk and follow @GoodSixty on Instagram and Twitter

• circumstancedistillery.com

ALL YOU CAN EAT Burger Theory's Bottomless Burger Club is a unique bottomless food event that offers two hours of bottomless burgers, sides, drinks – including Prosecco and local beers – for £39.50pp. As far as the team know, there's nothing else like it in the UK and it has always been incredibly popular. In Burger Theory’s first year (2018) its promotional video went viral via pages such as Unilad Grub and Ladbible, accumulating millions of views resulting in the event selling out for six months straight.

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Burger Theory’s food is made to the highest standard with high welfare meat from Stokes Marsh Farm in Devizes, free range dairy and locally sourced produce. The first event will be on 20 February 2022 and every third Sunday of the month after that.

• If you would like to sign up the Bottomless Burger Club visit: burgertheory.co.uk/bottomlessburger-club

FOOD NEWS V5.qxp_Layout 2 26/11/2021 16:44 Page 2

YULE TIME DINING With the holiday season just around the corner, Harvey Nichols Bristol has officially relaunched its Christmas dining.

Enjoy a delicious meal, a glass of fizz or even a mince pie (or two) and rejoice in the most wonderful time of the year.

After all, ‘tis the season to eat, drink and be merry.

The specially created menu features festive dishes that champion Christmas classics including cured duck, turkey breast and Christmas pudding, served with all the trimmings. Available now, enjoy two courses for £28 or three courses for £35.

• Book your table via Harvey Nichols Bristol’s website: harveynichols.com/restaurant/bristol-dining

WE ARE HIRING

Join Our Team Kricket is a collection of modern Indian restaurants combining British ingredients with the flavours and aromas of India. Established in London, Bristol is our first adventure outside of the capital.

We are looking for an ambitious commis/curry chef to join the Kricket delivery kitchen in Bristol.

In our delivery kitchen, you will work alongside experienced curry chefs and help with the preparation, presentation and packaging of our restaurant signature dishes alongside some bespoke delivery favourites.

We are looking for a candidate that wants to develop their skill set, is ready for a challenge and is ambitious.

Experience in Indian cuisine is great but not necessary we will teach you!

What You Get

FRESH AND LOCAL Bristol’s All About The Cooks sell real food cooked by real people. The carefully curated team of home-cooks, who sell their food with the platform have created a mouthwatering selection of food gifts, canapes and dishes for the festive season.

Last Christmas proved successful for the company, with popular treats including gingerbread house kits, yule logs, gift-wrapped treats and Swedish biscuit boxes on the menu.

All these and more will be available again, as will a range of family meals and gift vouchers.

The pandemic has given many people time to reflect on what they buy from where, and what happens to it afterwards. The gift of food is a thoughtful and personal present, and is usually received with delight. There are food gifts to suit all budgets, and by gifting locally cooked food, you can be sure that you are doing what you can to support a sustainable future for your local community.

– We pay well and reward high achievers – £100 John Lewis voucher for every anniversary – 50% team discount across the Group – Hospitality Action scheme for every employee – Loyalty rewards including extra holiday – Birthdays off – Pension scheme and advice – Private health care after 2 years with the Group – Opportunities in a growing company with great staff retention and a strong reputation Teamwork, respect and equality are the foundations of Kricket’s values. If they’re yours too, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact Moncef Mansur, Head of People moncef@kricket.co.uk / 07826521220

• allaboutthecooks.co.uk

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KIBOU REVIEW.qxp_Layout 1 22/11/2021 11:55 Page 1

KIBOU signature cocktail – gin, bergamot, lychee liqueur, rose vermouth, bitters, lime and sugar

KIBOU is adorned with a beautifully intricate burgundy Japanese acer tree

“The menu itself centres on showpiece sharing platters, which is where this restaurant really earns its stripes.”

Restaurant review

KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar

Photographs by Nic Crilly-Hargrave

From humble beginnings to ever-growing success, we book a table at Clifton Village’s popular newcomer to discover the magic within...

I

t’s six o’clock on a Thursday evening. It’s dark, the heavens have opened, Bristol’s roads are heaving with rush-hour traffic and the thrum of the wipers is dominating the conversation. As we make it up to Clifton and turn into the King’s Road, the sight of KIBOU almost takes us by surprise. Adorned with a beautifully intricate burgundy Japanese acer tree, which weaves itself up and around the first floor windows, our expectations are immediately met, and exceeded. The warm glow from within gives it an almost irresistible allure on this cold October evening.

Having grown up in Cheltenham, I knew the name KIBOU well. It started from humble beginnings tucked away in a basement space in the centre of town. Its food, however, was always divine. Before it moved to a bigger, street-level venue and expanded to London and Bristol, KIBOU truly was a hidden gem that, once discovered, was a joy to experience. Through expansion, it hasn’t lost its touch. The Clifton branch – previously the Nettle & Rye pub – possesses all of the qualities that die-hard fans hold so dear. Brimming with natural life, it’s hard not to be amazed by the finer details, the authentic décor and the projector animations depicting a more modern side of Japan – and that’s all before you’ve even seen the menu.

Once shown to our table, the KIBOU signature cocktail was a no brainer. Comprising of gin, bergamot, lychee liqueur, rose vermouth, bitters, lime and sugar, it is one to savour, if you can. It also arrives in the most ‘Instragrammable’ glass you ever did see (pictured – I say no more).

KIBOU features a standalone bar, meaning its drinks menu is extensive. Offering an ambitious selection of Japanese whisky and sake along with Japanese-brewed beers, authentic high-balls and 58 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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cocktails, it’s a great place to kick back any day of the week.

The menu itself centres on showpiece sharing platters, which is where this restaurant really earns its stripes. We opt for the 20-piece Jo Moriawase – a delicious mixed selection of sushi and sashimi chosen by the chef, which is easy to manage between two people. The plate is lined with mixed seafood California rolls, nigiri, tuna and salmon sashimi, and spicy tuna and avocado temaki.

To accompany the platter, we pick a steaming bowl of vegetable ramen with firm tofu and seasonal vegetables in a tasty broth; softshell crab tempura bao buns with crab sauce; pumpkin croquettes topped with tonkatsu sauce, vegan sriracha mayo and aonori (a personal favourite); and a soy and honey-dressed salmon sashimi poke bowl.

Stuffed was an understatement, but enraptured was one too.

A couple of short moments later, we were ready for dessert. We devoured a chocolate ganache topped with sesame mousse and chocolate soil – as well as mini cinnamon and apple dumplings with vanilla ice cream and salted caramel sauce. What I love about the menu is the extended vegan offering now available. Whether you’re a meat-eater, a veggie, a vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, KIBOU caters to all Japanese food-loving tastes and dietary requirements and offers everyone something special that will tickle your taste buds.

The service was faultless and the staff – lovely and laid-back – were on point with their recommendations. Ultimately, it’s a delight to see KIBOU back on our doorstep. A firm favourite in my hometown, I have no doubt that its reputation will continue to soar.

Is it still raining? I hadn't noticed… ■ • kibou.co.uk/clifton; 16 King's Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4AB

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ANDREW SWIFT – DEC.qxp_Layout 2 23/11/2021 12:54 Page 1

HISTORY

“Kingsdown is unlike anywhere else in Bristol. Parts of it don’t seem to belong in a city at all, looking as though they’ve been transplanted from the back streets of a select Georgian seaside resort.”

WINTER WANDERS Tucked away high above the city lies an oasis of calm in Kingsdown. Andrew Swift explores the cobbled streets and discovers a hidden gem brimming with rich history, individuality, and a formidable line-up of hostelries

K

ingsdown, Bristol’s first planned suburb, is one of the city’s hidden gems. To find it, you can still follow the route a medieval traveller would have taken, heading north out of the city down Broad Street. Once through St John’s Gate, however, where the way ahead once led across the River Frome, you now have to negotiate several lanes of traffic. On the far side, though, the old route continues up Christmas Steps and St Michael’s Hill. The medieval traveller would by now be leaving the city behind. By the time they crested the brow of the hill they would have been in open country, with King’s Down – so called because it was the exercise ground for the horses in Bristol’s royal garrison – on their right.

Regal equestrianism came to an abrupt end in the 1640s when Civil War broke out and a line of forts, linked by ramparts, was built around Bristol. It was Prior’s Hill Fort, in a seemingly impregnable position on King’s Down, that was the key to the city’s defence. In 1643, when Royalist forces took Bristol from the Parliamentarians, and in 1645, when the Parliamentarians took it back, it was the scene of long and bitter fighting.

With peace, rural calm again descended on King’s Down, but, as Bristol’s prosperity boomed, it wasn’t long before wealthy 60 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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merchants, eager to escape the smoky city, cast envious eyes on its grassy slopes. Some of them built second homes – or ‘garden houses’ – there, to which they could retreat at weekends or when pestilence swept through the city. Before long, however, others decided to settle there permanently. By the 1740s, two long streets – Dovecote Lane and Somerset Street – were laid out along the contours and Bristol’s first planned suburb was born.

More streets soon followed, and, as the city continued to expand, Kingsdown was slowly engulfed. Due to its vertiginous location, though, its breezy isolation survived, as did what had so appealed to its first residents – its unparalleled views eastward. What didn’t survive was its cachet as one of Bristol’s most fashionable locales.

Once eclipsed by the grander terraces of Clifton, Kingsdown was left to its own shabby genteel devices. Which, as far its residents were concerned, was absolutely fine.

What wasn’t fine was the city council’s determination, in the 1950s, to wipe old Kingsdown off the map. There had been nibbling at the edges for years, but, as the juggernaut of redevelopment rolled inexorably up the hill, before long all that was left were the streets at the top. It seemed only a matter of time before they too would be reduced to rubble to provide hardcore for high-rises.

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HISTORY

“It is Kingsdown’s unique character that is the best reason to seek it out – hanging, hidden away, high above the city, recalling days long gone and with those unrivalled views.”

“Most atmospheric, perhaps, is a narrow cul-de-sac curiously known as Back of Kingsdown Parade, which follows the line of the Civil War ramparts, and not only sports some impressive hanging bays but is still lit by gas lamps.“

The devastation of the lower slopes, however, forged the determination to save what remained. In 1957, residents formed a ‘protection association’ and started to gather influential supporters.

John Betjeman, a long-time admirer of Kingsdown’s ‘blue vistas’, declared it an irreplaceable treasure, while the architectural critic Ian Nairn described it as ‘England’s only vertical suburb’, adding that ‘nowhere else is there an 18th-century suburb apparently hanging in mid-air over a big city’. It was a long struggle, but victory came in 1973 when Kingsdown was designated a conservation area. Almost 50 years on, it seems incredible that something so precious was once considered of such little value.

However well you know Kingsdown, it still remains astonishing how such an oasis of calm can survive amid the teeming city. But, as John Betjeman said, Kingsdown, with its ‘terraces, trees, cobbled streets, garden walls and residential quiet, is all the more attractive for its unexpectedness so near the middle of Bristol’.

The key to Kingsdown’s unique character lies in its location, but to appreciate just how vertiginous it is you need to approach it not via St Michael’s Hill but from Dighton Street, north of that tangle of busy roads around the bus station. A little way along Dighton Street is King Square, laid out in the 1740s as a smart residential development, but now, with all but a handful of its original buildings gone, a somewhat melancholy introduction to what lies above.

If you head through the garden in the centre of the square, however, and carry on up a flight of steps, you come to Dove Street – originally Dovecote Lane. Here too the Georgian houses have gone, replaced by flats which featured in The Outlaws. The views have survived, however, and if you look south-eastward you will, on a clear day, see the knot of trees on Kelston Round Hill, over eight miles away, with the long line of Lansdown to the north. You will, however, have to imagine what it was like when there was nothing in between but woods and fields.

Another flight of steps leads to Somerset Street and the heart of old

Kingsdown. Despite its elevated position, everything here is on a human scale. Kingsdown may have been Bristol’s first planned suburb, but planning was confined to the road layout. When it came to the buildings, it was a question of what each developer fancied – or could afford. Three-storey houses with full-height bays stand next to simple cottages, brick rubs shoulders with stucco. This is vernacular architecture at its most alluring, echoing the mores of the early 18th century, when no one wanted to offend his neighbour, but no one wanted to mimic him either. Confident individuality is the norm.

Kingsdown is unlike anywhere else in Bristol. Parts of it don’t seem to belong in a city at all, looking as though they’ve been transplanted from the back streets of a select Georgian seaside resort.

Most atmospheric, perhaps, is a narrow cul-de-sac curiously known as Back of Kingsdown Parade, which follows the line of the Civil War ramparts, and not only sports some impressive hanging bays but is still lit by gas lamps.

Kingsdown’s earliest inn, the Montagu, was one of the few buildings in the area to fall victim to bombing, but although a grassy space now marks the spot where it stood, few corners of the city have such a splendid range of hostelries on their doorstep – from the Hillgrove Porter Stores and the Hare on the Hill in Dove Street to the Kingsdown Vaults and the Green Man at the west end of Kingsdown Parade. Add to that the pubs on St Michael’s Hill and down in Stoke’s Croft and you have a formidable line-up.

In the end, though, it is Kingsdown’s unique character that is the best reason to seek it out – hanging, hidden away, high above the city, recalling days long gone and with those unrivalled views. ■ • For more information, visit kingsdownbristol.net. Further reading: Kingsdown: Bristol’s Vertical Suburb by Penny Mellor and Mary Wright (2009). A walk through Montpelier, Stoke’s Croft, St Paul’s and Kingsdown is included in Andrew Swift’s Walks from Bristol’s Severn Beach Line; akemanpress.com THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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BRISTOL UPDATES NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS

CHOIR WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD The Royal Philharmonic Society recently announced the winners for its prestigious RPS annual awards at the Wigmore Hall in London. The Inspiration Award was won by Bristol Choral, led by musical director Hilary Campbell.

This great news comes hard on the heels of other successes for Hilary and the choir, including their win at the ‘Making Music’ Awards. All of these accolades are due to hard work and creativity, with the choir continuing to rehearse online on a weekly basis during the various lockdowns of the past two years.

Speaking about the awards, Hilary said: “It was a huge privilege to be a part of such a prestigious event, in such illustrious company, and Bristol Choral Society and I were thrilled to be shortlisted amongst several other imaginative and resourceful ensembles. It's been a challenging time for all musicians over the past two years, but amateur musicians, and in particular amateur singers, have borne the brunt of so many of the imposed restrictions, which changed frequently, and silenced so many groups. And yet millions of singers have continued to make music, in whatever manner they could, with unwavering optimism and passion, none more so than the members of Bristol Choral Society and their incredibly hard working committee and chair, Joi Demery.”

• royalphilharmonicsociety.org.uk

LATE NIGHT SHOPPING To celebrate the onset of the festive period, Gloucester Road central shops and businesses are planning a Christmas launch on 2 December.

Shops will stay open until 8pm, spilling out onto the wide pavements with a range of delights. Joes Bakery will be offering free tasters of cakes and Image by Jenny Urquhart bakes and Paper Plane will have snowflake cutting for kids. Osna has invited the Gurt Lush Choir to sing outside from 6–7.30pm, following Irish dancing by a young British champion at 5.30pm. They'll be selling their famous mulled wine to raise funds for The Gurt Lush Choir's chosen charities. This is a great chance to browse all the art and gift shops. Sample Chocolatier's handmade chocolates, find eco friendly rugs and cushions at Nola Interiors and Christmas cards, original art and jewellery at Room 212, Fig and Artigo.

Florists Rambling Rose, will have plant gift hampers and Christmas wreath kits. Ask Catch the Moment about novel ways to use favourite photos for gifts or talk to Gloucester Road books about their recommendations by independent publishers. Room 212 have the popular Bristol Impressions calendars and Almanac Seasonal guide by local auther Lia Leendertz. Sidney and Eden will be offering live music and a vast array of beers while Cafe Dream will be rustling up some winter warming nibbles, and plenty more.

• For more information vist: facebook.com/GlosRdCentral

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STYLISH SOLUTIONS As the festive season approaches, there’s lots to look forward to. Deciding what to wear to Christmas events, however, can become overwhelming. Whether it’s not knowing how to style an outfit or not having the time to browse the high street, Lifestylish is on hand to help.

Providing stress-free solutions both in-person and digitally, Hannah Hill founded the brand to show her clients how to inject their personality into their wardrobe. Feel confident, step out of your comfort zone and save valuable time. This festive season, put your trust into Lifestylish and allow the team to find you something fabulous to wear. You can even keep your style-savvy friends and family happy this Christmas with a Lifestylish gift voucher for an experience they can look forward to enjoying in the New Year.

• lifestylish.co.uk

FESTIVE FUNDRAISER The Coexist Community Kitchen is a non-profit cookery school and community kitchen based in the heart of Easton. This month, it is running a festive fundraiser consisting of a number of gifts donated by the kitchen’s team and some of the amazing independent businesses of Bristol.

The fundraiser is aiming to raise £10,000, which will go towards running projects next year including free cookery workshops for people accessing support services (mental health provision, drug and alcohol recovery, people in the asylum system and other community groups), as well as free food provision for people struggling with food poverty. n • Find out more via Coexist Community Kitchen’s website: coexistcommunitykitchen.org; and donate at: crowdfunder.co.uk/coexist

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F

ounded by Nicky Dunn in 2017, Pi Society is a leading South West based dating agency, offering an exclusive, unrivalled, matchmaking service and singles events across the region.

Using our extensive network of trusted contacts, along with our invaluable knowledge and experience, our teams work tirelessly and discretely to ensure we find your perfect partner.

Using a selection of personality profiling tools, we take the time to truly understand you; your core values, strengths, and personality traits. Yes, we want those goosebumps and sparks when you first meet a match, but we also want to ensure that you have the best chance of success beyond those first dates. Deep conversation with your exclusive matchmaker, profiling and a mutual trust gives you the best chance of this.

In a world where many of us are time short and love weary, we aim to truly make a difference and change the course of your life in the process.

Putting your safety at the heart of our culture, we ensure that we are confident in the authenticity of the match before we make an introduction.

Every journey begins with a conversation and an understanding of what you’re looking for in a partner. And, most importantly, what you’re not.

What better time to begin the next chapter of your romantic adventure than the start of a New Year?

And so, if you're a successful professional, based in either Bristol or Bath and you’re ready to move beyond those time-consuming dating apps, please get in touch; we’d love to chat.

Contact tracey@pisociety.co.uk to schedule a call today.

Nicky Dunn, CEO and Tracey Duke, Executive Matchmaker and Coach.

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CITY BUSINESS

“I was determined to install [the giant bow] a bit earlier this year as I, for one, certainly felt it would give both my team and our customers a lift after the dark days we have all faced during the pandemic,” says Steve Smith, head of business at Bristol Audi

All wrapped up

Back by popular demand, Bristol Audi has officially installed its much-loved Christmas bow at its showroom in Cribbs Causeway. We chat to head of business Steve Smith about getting into the Christmas spirit and keeping retail alive Steve Smith, head of business at Bristol Audi

W

hen Bristol Audi moved to Cribbs Causeway in 2011, the team soon realised that if the showroom was going to fit in with the vibrant retail area during the festive season, a showstopping decoration was an absolute must.

Over the last 10 years, the team has gone all-out on wrapping a giant red bow, lined with bright lights, around the length and breadth of the showroom’s four glass walls, giving the impression that Bristol Audi itself is a present waiting to be opened.

Steve Smith, head of business at Bristol Audi, said: “In the past 10 years, there were only two years where we did something different. One year, we wrapped a car in a box on the forecourt and last year, under the circumstances, we simply decorated a Christmas tree. However, on both occasions we were inundated with messages asking about the giant bow’s whereabouts. Most of the comments said, “we only know Christmas is coming when the bow is up" – it was amazing really.

In Bristol and beyond, the showroom is well-known for its festive statement piece. “We had somebody from South Wales contact us saying they were coming to the Mall at Cribbs Causeway to do some Christmas shopping but wanted to wait until the bow was up as their kids love it,” Steve tells us with a smile. “Another from the midlands said when he comes to Bristol, the bow feels like the gateway to Christmas,” he adds.

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specially made and have it replaced every three years. “We employ a local company to put it up securely and decorate it with lights – this has become tradition now,” Steve explains. “I was determined to install it a bit earlier this year as I, for one, certainly felt it would give both my team and our customers a lift after the dark days we have all faced during the pandemic.”

As well as taking pride in the showroom’s Christmas decorations, Steve and the team have always worked tirelessly to provide an outstanding in-store experience, determined to fight the death of the high street.

“There has been lots of noise about how online sales have replaced in-store shopping. I am a strong believer that there is still a case for the high street. Shopping can be an emotional purchase and should be a pleasurable experience that you can enjoy with your family.

Regardless of whether you’re buying a pair of socks, a holiday or a new car, face-to-face contact, advice and interaction is certainly more memorable, and can never be totally replaced. This is why I feel as a local business we need to make an effort and play our part in keeping retail alive. Our Christmas bow will be installed every year, regardless of cost in these challenging times. Local business filled with local employees serving the local community – that's what it is all about. ■

• monmotors.com/audi; Lysander Road, Patchway, Bristol BS10 7FF

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A YEAR IN SPORT

After being recognised by the International Olympic Committee in July, lacrosse has enjoyed a momentous year.

As the world’s eyes focus on the game’s development, Carys Johnson, who plays for England U20 National Academy, delves into its remarkable evolution

L

acrosse – one of the fastest growing sports in the world – is very much enjoying its moment in the limelight. This year, the sport took historic steps forward in terms of its growth and development. In May 2021, World Lacrosse Sixes – a new discipline of the game – was introduced to the world.

Two months later, the sport was finally recognised by the International Olympic Committee, fuelling players’ hopes of seeing it at the Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

With Bristol itself home not only to one of the biggest lacrosse clubs in the south west, Bristol Bombers, but also to the University of Bristol’s men’s first team, which has won the BUCS Premier South Division for four seasons straight, the city is very much helping to drive the sport forward.

Now, as many new events featuring Sixes prepare to make their debut in 2022, and fans look forward to a year packed full of historymaking moments, we take a look back at the evolution of the game and the future of the sport.

The rules For those unfamiliar with the rules and regulations of lacrosse, the sport has various versions – field lacrosse, women's lacrosse, box lacrosse, intercrosse – and now Sixes. The men's game – field lacrosse, played outdoors – involves two teams of 10 players, all of whom use a stick to carry, pass, catch, and shoot a hard, rubbery ball into a netted goal. It is a contact sport and all players wear protective gear: helmet, gloves, shoulder pads and elbow pads. The women's game, which is also played outdoors with 10 players on each team, does not allow body contact but does allow stick-to-stick contact.

Box lacrosse, on the other hand, is played indoors by teams of five runners. The style of the game is quick, accelerated by the close confines of the pitch and a shot clock – a countdown timer that provides a set amount of time that a team may possess the ball before attempting to score a goal. Intercrosse, alternatively, is a mixed-gender, non-contact sport played indoors using a softer ball. Sixes is a blend of many of the most popular aspects of traditional lacrosse and is thought to be more intense and therefore of greater appeal to spectators. If 66 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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lacrosse makes it into the Olympics, it will be Sixes that crowds enjoy.

A look back in time The history of the game is particularly interesting. Once known as stickball, the sport was played by various Native American communities and consisted of hundreds of men playing on a field several miles long. These traditional games could last several days. By the 17th century, lacrosse as we know it was beginning to emerge in the territory of present-day Canada. Today, World Lacrosse governs the modern sport. Interestingly, it is the only international sport organisation to recognise First Nations bands and Native American tribes as sovereign nations.

A year of success Although the sport has been played for centuries, the last 12 months has arguably been the most significant in terms of attracting worldwide attention. Since World Lacrosse introduced Sixes in May, a number of first-time events are set to take place around the globe in the New Year.

Most notably, the first European-based international event featuring the new discipline will be held in Portugal in February, soon followed by the World Games in Birmingham, Alabama in the summer.

Lacrosse in Bristol The University of Bristol’s men’s and women’s lacrosse teams have been extremely successful over the last few years, with the men’s team being one of the highest performing clubs at the university. The head coach, Pete Wilson, is an international box lacrosse player, playing for England. His coaching has arguably led to significant developments in the game at collegiate level.

As the year draws to a close, it has been fascinating to watch the sport grow so remarkably. There are plenty of clubs in and around Bristol that are championing the sport and their players, harnessing their talent and encouraging their development. With the financial support that World Lacrosse is now to receive from the IOC Development Program, young talent within the sport will be afforded greater opportunities to blossom – watch this space. ■

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EDUCATION NEWS UPDATES FROM THE CITY’S SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES

A HISTORIC EVENT Last month saw the return of a historic Bristol event when over 700 students from Redmaids' High School marched from Welsh Back to Bristol Cathedral for a special service.

Both the Head Girls, who led the procession, and eight of the school's students can be seen wearing traditional dress.

The school's annual Founders' Commemoration Day dates back hundreds of years and attracts people to Bristol from across the country as alumnae, parents and members of the public line the route to watch this historic spectacle.

For the Head Paul Dwyer, who joined the school in September 2020, it will be the first time he has marked the school's founders in this way, as last year was disrupted by Covid restrictions.

He explains, “This is an extremely important day for us as we gather to celebrate the heritage of Redmaids' High School, and remember our founders John Whitson, Reverends T G Rose and Urijah Thomas.

“This occasion allows us to thank these forwardthinking people whose commitment to girls' education has had such a lasting impact.

“I think they would be delighted to know that all these years later, the school continues to thrive and flourish.”

HONOURING SINGLE-PARENT FAMILIES A single mother from Southville has recently published her first children's picture book, written for children from single parent families.

The Dinosaur’s Big Day Out follows Edward the dinosaur as he tries to run away from home – and from his emotions – following the separation of his parents. Perfect for young readers, the book is written in gently rhyming verse to encourage aural and oral development through rhyme and repetition with hand painted illustrations throughout.

While there are children's books that attempt to explain the process of divorce and separation, such as Mum and Dad Glue and I Have Two Homes, general picture books that feature characters from single parent families are few and far between.

“I became a single parent to my then two year old son, Teddy, at the start of 2019 and the inspiration for this story came from a trip to London, our first trip as a team of two, combined with frustration at the lack of single parent families featured in books for children, despite the fact that 25% of children in the UK grow up in one.”

Emily, who works in marketing, collaborated with Bristol-based illustrator, Lou Collis, to bring Edward to life. She is already working on her next books, which feature a variety of single parent families, coparenting relationships and blended families.

“It's so incredibly important to give young children the chance to talk about their feelings. My son can identify with the emotions in the book and it provides him with a starting point to discuss his own emotions, without being overwhelmed by them as the story itself is still a fun tale of adventure and mishap. I really hope that the book helps others in the same way” Emily also runs a single parenting blog, where the book can be purchased. It is available at independent book shops, as well as from Amazon, Waterstones and WH Smith.

• Purchase The Dinosaur’s Big Day Out via Emily’s blog; popgoesperfection.co.uk; £8.99

• redmaidshigh.co.uk

FOR THE LOVE OF READING According to a report by the National Literacy Trust published in November, four out of 10 schools do not have access to a library budget. Like every educational establishment, Badminton School believes that children should have the opportunity to enjoy reading.

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There is a magic in picking up a book and physically holding it – whether that be to lose yourself in a story or to find out more about a topic of interest. Sometimes the environment can make all the difference and that is why in the summer the school invested in a complete refurbishment of its Junior School library. The library is now a space of calm and peacefulness where pupils can read or snuggle down in one of the comfy reading areas and lose themselves for just a quiet moment or two.

Helen Taylor, assistant head and English coordinator said: “We are so lucky to have this wonderful, refurbished library in which the pupils can enjoy reading. The timetabled library slot in a busy week gives pupils the environment and time to not just choose a book but also to share their enthusiasm with others. Reading is definitely ‘cool’ here! Our older pupils have the responsibility of being librarians, their passion for the new space and books is evident in their approach and dedication to looking after the library.”

• badmintonschool.co.uk Image: One of Badminton School’s pupils in the newly refurbished library

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THE PARENTING PLACE Real Solutions for Real Life

The Parenting Place offers Parenting support, education and an online community for parents to share ideas We also offer hypnotherapy for children in the areas of sleep difficulties, stress, anxiety, nerves and phobias and for adults in the areas of stress, anxiety, sleep, weight loss, smoking cessation and phobias.

We aim to normalise asking for support as a parent

and can offer you over twenty years of experience in working with children and families

www.theparentingplace.co.uk parentingplaceuk@gmail.com

TEL: 07305 346 792

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PROMOTED CONTENT

1 West Mall, Clifton

Sheryl and Cornelius Krause

The dental excellence team

A family-run family dentistry practice

Established as a chemist in the 1830s, 1 West Mall in Clifton has been restored to medical excellence with the opening of a stunning new private dental clinic.

I

n a market crowded with dentistry chains, CK Dental emphasises bespoke private dental care that puts the patient at the heart of the practice. Run by husband-and-wife team Cornelius and Sheryl Krause, the new clinic is their second location in Bristol after a decade based at the Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital.

“When you walk in, there is a relaxed atmosphere more reminiscent of a spa than a dental clinic. You certainly can’t hear any drills!”

Dentistry is a fast-moving discipline, with continuous advances in technology and techniques, but Cornelius and Sheryl have devised a modern, effective dental clinic that retains the feel of a family-run practice.

CK Dental is renowned for treating dental phobic patients and patients from all over the UK visit Cornelius at the clinic in the Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital. As one of the few dental practices in the UK situated in a hospital setting, Cornelius and his team can perform all dental procedures under general anaesthetic or sedation administered by a dedicated anaesthetist. This experience in treating nervous patients is evident in the design of the new clinic.

Previously, Sheryl managed the Nuffield Health Gym on the triangle in Clifton from 2003 and then moved to the newly established Chesterfield Hospital in 2013, becoming hospital director before she left to start her family and join Cornelius in running CK Dental.

“In a typical dental clinic, X-rays are performed in the treatment room which requires it to be lead-lined and the rooms can often feel oppressive as a result,” Sheryl explains. “We’ve created a dedicated X-ray room, so our treatment spaces remain light and open.”

The Nuffield focus on the patient journey inspired her to adopt the same approach in designing the new clinic. “Even though I’m married to a dentist, I still get nervous when it’s time for a check-up. I wanted to create a calm and welcoming oasis in the heart of the village.

With Sheryl’s focus firmly on the patient experience, Cornelius seized the opportunity to create a dental clinic that offers patients the newest and most innovative dental techniques, combined with state-of-the-art digital equipment.

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Alongside the iTero digital intraoral scanner that produces highly accurate restorative work without the need for moulds, the clinic also offers a CBCT scanner. The Cone Beam CT scanner allows the dentists to take detailed 3D images of jaw structure, teeth, and bone. This provides a better image quality and accuracy for treatment planning. It’s also quick and painless for the patient and has a lower dose of radiation compared to a traditional CT scan.

Cornelius is also excited about the dental excellence his team will be able to achieve at the new clinic. “By having the most advanced technology immediately at their disposal, our dentists will be able to develop and progress their skills, plan treatments like dental implants more precisely, and perform more minimally invasive surgeries,” Cornelius explains. “Our team will be able to deliver more successful treatments, with speedier recovery times for our patients.”

As well as routine and restorative dentistry, three out of the four dentists at the practice perform Invisalign, the innovative clear aligner system that has revolutionised teeth straightening in recent years.

Current patients can choose to have their check-ups and dental treatments at either clinic. The hospital clinic offers easy access for disabled patients with parking on site and lifts. All treatments for dental phobic patients will be performed as before.

Overlooking the tranquil Mall Gardens and opposite the smart Ivy Clifton Brasserie, the new surgery will have a welcoming reception where patients will be able to walk straight in and book their appointments. ■

Dr Emma Langridge

How dentistry is emerging as the ultimate anti-ageing procedure As we get older, our face undergoes significant changes and although it’s easy to get fixated on our wrinkles, paying attention to your smile could make all the difference when it comes to reversing the ageing process.

Both the shape and colour of our teeth change as we age and, in some cases, our entire smile can alter if we have missing teeth. Anti-ageing dentistry ranges from simple fixes like teeth whitening or straightening to more complex restorative dentistry procedures that can transform facial structure.

Treatments Available • Adhesive bridges • Conventional bridges • Crowns • Dental implants • Dentures • Home whitening • Hygiene examination • Initial extensive consultation (incl. 2 small digital X-rays) • Inlays (gold or porcelain) • Periodontal treatments • Root canal treatments • Routine examination (incl. routine Xrays) • General Anaesthetic and Sedation for nervous patients • Teeth straightening – Invisalign® • Tooth removal – routine and surgical • Veneers • White fillings

Dr Emma Langridge, Associate Dentist at CK Dental, believes that all patients should be able to smile with confidence and will work with patients until these aims are achieved.

“Teeth whitening is quick, painless and can deliver an impressive smile transformation, but if you feel your teeth are uneven or misshapen, there’s several cosmetic dentistry procedures to consider.

“Invisalign has fast become one of the most popular treatments we offer at CK Dental, particularly with adults that may have spent many years unhappy with their smile. Dental veneers or composite bonding allow us to change badly shaped and discoloured teeth into a natural white smile with minimally invasive techniques.

“And the good news is that, unlike an anti-ageing cream or serum, these dental treatments can produce a dramatic and long-lasting rejuvenation if you look after your smile.”

For more information or to book an appointment, please call 0117 905 9866 or email info@ckdental.co.uk www.ckdental.co.uk

CK Dental, 1 West Mall, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4BH

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I was Head of HR for a Fintech company and I decided to change my career path for a number of reasons. I felt unfulfilled, stressed, tired and exhausted all the time. I was so burnt out so when lockdown hit, it was a chance to leave my job and pursue my dream of having my own business. I started NOCO Health, a nutrition clinic specialising in energy, stress, digestion and pre/post-natal support.

doctors and being shipped out after five minutes, with a diagnosis I felt was incorrect or given to me too quickly without any testing to find the root cause.

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health issues. I genuinely believe that I can help reduce or eradicate their symptoms by following an evidence based nutrition and lifestyle protocol. Starting my own business has enabled me to work flexibly and create a better lifestyle, I can already see the benefits to my health and happiness.

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CHARITY

Since 2013, Marmalade Trust has been holding volunteer-led events in pubs and restaurants across the region; picking people up and taking them to enjoy a meal in the company of others on Christmas Day

CHRISTMAS CHEER Some 20 months after the pandemic began in earnest, usage of the Bristol-based loneliness charity Marmalade Trust has soared. As the festive season approaches, we ask founder Amy Perrin about what the charity is doing to ensure that a helping hand is given to anyone who needs it this Christmas time...

I

n 2013, health care professional Amy Perrin set up Bristol-based loneliness charity, Marmalade Trust – the only charity in the world specifically dedicated to raising awareness of loneliness.

Eight years on, the charity has attracted hundreds of volunteers who work tirelessly in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire to fill people’s lives with new connections and friendships. On a national scale, the charity also hosts an annual loneliness awareness week, which, every June, brings the country’s attention to the importance of talking openly about loneliness and its affects on people of all ages.

Christmas Day, in particular, can be a tough day to be alone. Sadly, hundreds of people in Bristol, many of who may be of an older age, will spend the festive period without friends or family.

Since it began, Marmalade Trust has been trying to remedy these statistics by holding volunteer-led events in pubs and restaurants across the region; picking people up and taking them to enjoy a meal in the company of others.

“In 2020, we were unable to run events due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop us,” says Amy. “Our amazing team of volunteers completed 185 Christmas Day visits to those who were alone and socially distancing, providing a doorstep chat and delivering a hamper full of gifts.

“This festive season, we are aware that many of our beneficiaries will have spent most of the past year socially isolated, either due to long periods of social isolation, or because general opportunities to

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connect have not restarted yet. We are working with our fabulous volunteers to provide connection throughout December, on Christmas Day and beyond. We have produced a connection advent calendar, filled with 24 days of connection activities, including letters from local school children and quizzes, which will be delivered on 1 December,” explains Amy. The charity is also matching volunteers to people spending Christmas Day alone, ensuring that they receive a visit or a lift to a small local event.

You can refer yourself to Christmas Cheer 2021 if you meet the charity’s eligibility criteria. Or, if you’re a friend, neighbour or a professional working with someone who would like to join Marmalade Trust, you can refer them once you’ve discussed it with them. The charity can only accept referrals who are: over 50 (but contact Marmalade Trust if you are under 50 and would like to attend); living in Bristol, North Somerset or South Gloucestershire; living alone and in their own home; feeling lonely; and doublevaccinated against Covid-19.

Beyond Christmas, Marmalade Trust will be, as always, continuing its support well into the New Year, ensuring that anyone who asks for it is given a helping hand. ■ • If you would like to be involved, either to volunteer or help fundraise for events, get in touch via Marmalade Trust’s website: marmaladetrust.org. For more information about Christmas Cheer 2021, email christmas@marmaladetrust.org or call 07566 244788

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

THE CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL GUIDE

C

hristmas is coming, and for many of us, this year will be a chance to make up for the somewhat restricted festive period of 2020. However, it’s possible to be so preoccupied by the celebrations that it’s easy to forget about our health and wellbeing. Here, the specialists at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital offer advice on how to enjoy a healthy holiday season.

Festive feasting If we struggle with how we feel about our body, we can worry about the impact that festive merry-making could have on our weight. We might still be thinking about our lockdown weight gain, and are trying to shed a few pounds before Christmas, either to fit into a party outfit or so we can give ourselves permission to eat whatever we like from Christmas Eve until New Year. Clinical psychologist Dr Vanessa Snowdon-Carr explains: “This is part of a familiar ‘lose it, gain it’ cycle, because by the time we get to Christmas, we’re so fed up with the diet that we then go overboard. While we may eat a bigger meal than usual on Christmas Day, it is the additional food and alcohol throughout December that adds to weight gain. We can tell ourselves that it doesn’t matter because we’ll refocus in January, but is that how we want to start the new year, feeling horrible about our body?

“So, how about deciding which are the meals you really want to be able to indulge in, and which are the little extras through December that you could do without? And when you do eat Christmas food, use some of the mindful eating principles: make sure you slow down, savour it and enjoy every mouthful!”

Even if weight isn’t a concern for you, the excesses of the festive season can still put a strain on our health, in particular our digestive system. Consultant gastroenterologist Dr Amanda Beale says: “A gut suddenly required to cope with large amounts of Christmas pudding, smothered in brandy cream, can sometimes show the strain.

Most of these odd gut symptoms will resolve quickly but, if persistent, can suggest underlying bowel problems.”

Dr Beale continues: “Any variation in bowel habit, new pains, or bloating that is still present in the New Year could indicate an underlying bowel problem. This in turn can cause poor absorption of nutrients, leading to anaemia and significant fatigue. If you have any concerns, seek medical advice.”

Share the love, not the germs We should not forget the potential threat COVID-19 could pose in upsetting our plans to have a happy family Christmas this year, but we should also remember that the festive season falls during the winter flu season. Like COVID-19, flu is a serious illness which can cause death, not only in vulnerable groups, such as older people and those with an underlying medical condition, but also among people who are fit and healthy. Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital’s infection prevention co-ordinator, nurse Janice Bowler explains: “You can have either of these viruses and pass them on to others without displaying any symptoms yourself, so being immunised not only protects you, it protects those around you, including family, friends and work colleagues.”

Janice says: “If you are unfortunate enough to have flu or COVID-19 in the run-up to Christmas, rest up, and self-isolate until you’re better. Your friends and loved ones won’t appreciate catching the infection from you, and then being struck down over Christmas itself. As well as getting the vaccine, you can help to reduce the spread of germs by regularly washing or sanitising your hands, and continuing to wear a face covering in enclosed spaces, for example, while doing your Christmas shopping.” There’s still time to get the flu jab before Christmas, so speak to your GP surgery or a local pharmacist if you would like more information.

Dr Gill Jenkins tells us: “The main problems GPs traditionally see before Christmas revolve around the stress of trying to provide the ‘perfect’ Christmas, or conversely being aware that you will be alone. Fear of getting into debt, not meeting loved ones’ expectations, and feeling lonely all lead to increased selfharming, sleep difficulties and panic attacks.

A heightened feeling of loss, anxiety and depression occur and the social media phenomena of competitiveness, oneupmanship and ‘fear of missing out’ add to the stress. After the event we see more problems related to overindulgence of food and drink, including indigestion and a realisation that alcohol use may be a problem, and weight gain that needs addressing. It almost makes you wonder why we do it!”

Dr Jenkins suggests: “Planning is key, with a realisation that Christmas is about sharing time and simple pleasures with the ones you care about. Remember to refresh stocks of simple ‘over the counter’ medicine, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, indigestion or diarrhoea medicines, and ensure you have enough of your regular medicine to last until after New Year. Doctors surgeries and chemists may be closed, but there is always a GP out-of-hours (OOH) service in case anyone does fall ill, or alternatively, call 111 for advice and a GP appointment. Try to avoid A&E, as hospital emergency departments are always overrun at this time of year.”

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital offers weight loss treatment, gastroenterology clinics, and a private GP service. If you would like to book an appointment with any of our consultants, call 0117 911 5339, or visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol for more information.

Prepare for a stress-less Christmas Christmas is usually portrayed as a happy, social, family time, but for many it doesn’t live up to these expectations. Even for those people who enjoy it, Christmas can still be stressful and there’s a price to be paid afterwards for overindulgence. Bristol GP THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital 3 Clifton Hill, Bristol BS8 1BN nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol

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“What is going to greet your guests when they sit down?

Are you having different china, glassware or cutlery?

It's easy to hire-in so how about leaving the everyday stuff in the drawers and cupboards and using something different?

Gold cutlery with gold rim glassware always adds that wow factor to your table,” says stylist Kirsten Butler

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Image: Evoke Pictures

INTERIORS

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INTERIORS

deck your halls

This festive season, we asked three local experts for their top tips on how to dress a show-stopping dinner table, decorate a fake or fir tree and make a Christmas wreath. With advice from Harvey Nichols Bristol’s display manager, The Mount Without’s award-winning stylist and Bouquets For Days’ owner, we delved into the intricate art of tablescaping and discovered how to keep those fairy lights tangle-free...

DRESS YOUR TABLE...

“Adding a name tag is always a personal touch – especially when it's handwritten. Nestle in a homemade decoration or sprig of mistletoe and you have a lovely festive touch for your guests.”

Ask the expert: Kirsten Butler, award-winning stylist at performance and event venue The Mount Without

W

hether you're cooking a dinner with all the trimmings, having friends bring a dish each, ordering-in, or just gathering around for an impromptu bite to eat, here are four simple tips for styling a festive table. It's all about layering up the details.... and these details can be shop bought, hired-in or even handmade.

Create with colour – and start with the linen Picking a colour palette will help when choosing decorations, linen and tableware. You may have a look that is traditional each year or you may want to change it up and go for something totally different.

Take inspiration from your home, the colours that you love, your soft furnishings – what colours make you feel calm, happy and festive? A great place to start is with the linen – a tablecloth or runner is the first layer and the base for everything else to go on top of.

Let there be light A must for the festive season! This can range from tealights to tiny fairy lights to tapered dinner candles or pillar candles. Whichever you choose, candles can be incorporated into the centrepiece as well as around the home to give a warm and cosy feel. For those feeling more ambitious, have a go at drilling candle holes into an offcut of wood (pictured right). It could be used many times over for different occasions and you could even paint it different colours depending on the occasion.

Upgrade your glassware and cutlery – go for the wow factor What is going to greet your guests when they sit down? Are you having different china, glassware or cutlery? It's easy to hire-in so how about leaving the everyday stuff in the drawers and cupboards and using something different? Gold cutlery with gold rim glassware always adds that wow factor to your table. Also, think about napkins that tie in with your colour palette – you can fold and lay these between the cutlery. Adding a name tag is always a personal touch – especially when it's handwritten. Nestle in a homemade decoration or sprig of mistletoe and you have a lovely festive touch for your guests.

“For those feeling more ambitious, have a go at drilling candle holes into an offcut of wood (pictured). It could be used many times over for different occasions and you could even paint it different colours depending on the occasion.”

• saintmichaelonthemountwithout.com; littleweddinghelper.co.uk THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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Images: Evoke Pictures/Little Wedding Helper/Emma Norton Flowers

Consider your centrepiece If you have a rectangular table then adding foliage down the centre always looks (and smells) great. You can forage for this, buy from a florist or there are some great faux garlands that you can use year after year. If you have a round table then a flower arrangement, lantern or festive decoration can fit in without it being overbearing.

Remember to keep any centrepieces below the eyeline so you can chat across the table easily and ensure there is enough room for any sharing dishes.

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INTERIORS

STYLE YOUR TREE...

“I always make sure my tree is balanced with its surroundings so it doesn’t look out of place. Colour, and unique decorations, are always crowd pleasers,” says display manager Lydia Hayward

Ask the expert: Lydia Hayward, display manager at Harvey Nichols Bristol

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f you prefer to use a natural tree, I always make sure that once out of its net, you leave it for 24 hours to naturally fall into place. This allows the tree to relax into its shape before being decorated. I prefer to use an artificial tree as they are generally fuller and the pines don’t drop. To make sure they look full, fluff out each branch starting at the bottom and work your way to the top. I bend all the branches upwards slightly as this gives the best support for decorations.

Style it out Step 1: Fluff the tree – this takes around 45 minutes for a 7ft tree.

Step 2: Add fairy lights – I personally prefer a soft yellow light as this gives a warm glow.

Step 3: Add the more decorative baubles, larger at the bottom.

Step 4: Use the extra baubles to fill the spaces.

Step 5: Ribbons are a nice alternative to tinsel – I always add ribbon last to fill any sparse areas.

Keep the lights tangle-free To stop the lights from getting tangled, I wind them around an empty wrapping paper tube. Make a cut in one end, tuck the cable in, then wrap the lights around the tube in one direction. When putting the lights back on the tree, you can unravel them straight from the tube, placing them on to the tree as you walk around it, tucking them into the branches as you go.

Adorn your tree I always start with the most precious decorations first, putting the larger baubles at the bottom and the smaller ones at the top. I always place my favourites at the front. I then use the more basic baubles to fill the gaps. If you have baubles of the same style, make sure these are not grouped together.

Secure the star I use nylon thread to make sure my star is secure. I also use this to tie on decorations as I don’t like to see the string of the baubles.

Think festive, fun and fanciful I always make sure my tree is balanced with it surroundings so it doesn’t look out of place. Colour, and unique decorations, are always crowd pleasers. However, if you have more traditional taste then a classic gold, red and green works well. To create a Christmas feeling in your home, make homemade decorations, candied oranges and dried cinnamon sticks tied with ribbon – or even baked salt dough, painted and glossed, can look really effective.

Embrace the space I love to decorate the mantel piece using garlands and baubles. I keep to the same theme as the tree to help tie the room together. Candles are a nice way to create a Christmassy atmosphere too – I use cinnamon and berry scents.

Dream of a green Christmas You can purchase eco-friendly tinsel, or even buy paper tinsel to be more environmentally friendly. Paper garlands or ribbon can look more lux than plastic tinsel.

Go big in small spaces I think even having a mini, thinner tree in a small space adds that festive feeling. If there isn’t room for a tree of any kind, then creating a festive window or mantel piece is also a nice way to add some Christmas magic to your home.

“Ribbons are a nice alternative to tinsel – I always add ribbon last to fill any sparse areas.”

• harveynichols.com/store/bristol 78 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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“There are really only two golden rules to remember; always move in the same direction with your foliage, if you start going in reverse you'll get in a muddle, and you're making a wreath not a clock, so be sure to arrange your accessories in a way which doesn't then look like numbers on a face,” advises florist Ellie Jones

CREATE YOUR WREATH...

Ask the expert: Ellie Jones, owner of independent florist Bouquets for Days

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aking your own Christmas wreath is super simple and there are really only two golden rules to remember; always move in the same direction with your foliage, if you start going in reverse you'll get in a muddle, and you're making a wreath not a clock, so be sure to arrange your accessories in a way which doesn't then look like numbers on a face. Here are five simple steps to help you on your way...

Step 1: To start, you need your base. I use a plastic free set up of moss packed onto a wire frame.

Step 2: Once your frame is ready, you can move onto attaching your foliage. Gather together a small bundle of mixed foliage, sprigs of fir and spruce are really long lasting and will remain fresh for weeks so these are my preference when it comes to foliage, but you can also use any dried leaves that you may have to hand. Wire the stems of this bundle onto the moss base.

Step 3: Gather another bundle of the same size and wire these over the stems of the bundle you've just secured. In this way, as you move around your wreath you're covering the stems of each bundle and the result is a ring of foliage tips without a stem in sight. Remember to cover the sides of your wreath as well as the front, you want it to look good from all angles, and keep working in the same direction, right to the final joining bundle which you’ll tuck underneath.

“The best way to achieve visual balance is to work with odd numbers, if you have two fir cones it's easy to accidentally end up with one either side of your wreath, glaring at you like eager eyes so try working with three or five instead and get creative.”

Step 4: Once your base is covered in foliage, you're then ready to attach the accessories and get your wreath looking festive. Whether you're using dried fruit, fir cones, cinnamon sticks, dried flowers, seed heads, feathers, baubles, ribbons or anything else, the process is the same; attach a wire to the accessory, place it where you want it to sit and then thread the wire through the wreath and fold it back into the moss base like a wire stitch. The best way to achieve visual balance is to work with odd numbers: if you have two fir cones it's easy to accidentally end up with one either side of your wreath, glaring at you like eager eyes so try working with three or five instead and get creative.

Step 5: Once everything is attached, step back and decide where the top of your wreath is and create a wire or twine loop from which to hang your wreath. Make sure this loop goes around your base frame to ensure it's secure enough to withstand winter storms if you're making your wreath for outside.

Et voilà! Give yourself a pat on the back, then get hanging. ■ • Ellie is selling her own Christmas wreaths for delivery across Bristol as well as taking private commissions for bespoke designs.

She is also holding a wreath-making workshop at PRIOR in Quakers Friars on 2 December, 7–9pm, and 4 December, 3.30–6.30pm, £48 per person. Find out more at: bouquetsfordays.co.uk THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 79

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Stunning DIY Garden Room Kits; Designed by Future SIPs, Installed by You Create the additional space you need with an efficient, insulated SIP garden room from Future SIPs ith working from home no longer the preserve of the fortunate few and the term ‘hybrid working’ becoming one of the most widely used by businesses, it’s no surprise that the popularity of having a useable room in the garden is at an all-time high.

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Designed and built to meet the needs of homeowners who aren’t in a position to wait months for a garden room, office or studio, the ‘Shell Kits’ and ‘Shell and External Kits’ manufactured by Future SIPs are suitable for a competent DIY enthusiast or local builder to install themselves.

As we continue to navigate our way through the global pandemic and most of us experience new ways of working, the need for additional space in our homes has become more important than ever before.

With a DIY garden room kit, homeowners can improve their homes and add space and value, without the need to move, often creating a room that can be enjoyed by every member of the family.

We’ve adapted to our changing work styles and environments, and as we’ve done so it’s become very clear that the changes in working situations for many companies and their employees are here to stay; with a great number of people continuing to work from home or transitioning into a hybrid form of working.

With a reputation for a forward-thinking approach, together with 10 years of expertise in designing, manufacturing and building garden rooms, glamping pods and timber framed buildings, Future Rooms is a family-owned and run business that prides itself on developing stunning garden rooms suitable for a variety of domestic and commercial uses.

As the working landscape changed, Future Rooms experienced an unprecedented demand for its range of beautiful garden rooms and started to receive enquiries from homeowners unable to wait for a garden room to be installed and keen to buy the walls, floor and roof and build it themselves.

All Future Rooms’ garden rooms and Future SIPs’ garden room kits are manufactured at their purpose-built workshop in Gloucestershire, where they recently designed and installed a plant to produce their SIPs, enabling them to expand their offering to the public and builders and provide expert advice and recommendations.

As enquiries for self-build garden rooms increased, the team designed a highly energy-efficient DIY garden room kit, The Studio, manufactured by Future SIPs and their expanding team, all employed at their Gloucestershire-based premises.

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The structural insulated panels (SIPs) are supplied by Future SIPs as a complete Shell Kit for the chosen garden room and include the number of required SIPs to construct the floor, walls and roof.

Homeowners can finish the room to their specification, with a choice of roof finish, external cladding and glazing.

Alternatively, homeowners and builders can choose a Shell and External Kit, which includes a choice of external cladding, glazing and roof finishes, leaving just the internal finishes to choose and source.

The dedicated team places great importance on attention to detail and delivering the highest standards of customer service, whatever the size and style of garden room, from a welcoming home office to a multifunctional room that can be used for work during the day, exercise in the evening and entertainment over the weekend.

There are four stunning garden room showrooms, based on The Studio, and installed using both the ‘Shell and External Kit’ and the ‘Shell Kits’, at Future SIP’s premises in the Gloucestershire countryside in Staunton, where there’s always a warm welcome.

The showroom is open from 10:00am until 4:00pm Monday to Friday and by appointment on Saturday, where the team are on hand to discuss requirements for outdoor rooms that make a beautiful and useful addition to any home and garden. n

For further information, call Future SIPs on 01452 840284 or visit their website at www.futuresips.co.uk

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THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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GARDENING

Baby, it’s cold outside As our gardens begin to weather the winter months, Elly West suggests five brilliant reads that will illuminate the green world in fresh ways while it’s too cold to cultivate...

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hen it's cold outside, you can't beat curling up indoors and catching up on your reading list, so why not treat yourself – or a green-fingered loved one – to this selection of garden-related books?

With Christmas around the corner and not too many shopping days left, a book makes the perfect gift.

The Secret Lives of Garden Bees

by Jean Vernon Pen & Sword Books; £16.99 Somerset-based Jean Vernon is a self-confessed bee addict, fascinated by these remarkable creatures from a young age, and it's hard not to share her passion once you start delving into their world. There are 276 different bee species in the UK, just one of which is the well-known honey bee, and 25 of which are different types of bumblebees.

This book is an accessible guide to bees, their habitats and behaviours, and is packed with large photographs to help with identification. We learn that male bees can't sting, that buzzing helps release pollen from a flower, and that bees have smelly feet, which leave traces of a pheromone behind them to tell other bees they have visited. There is also an important message within this book – that our natural balance totally relies on bees, and that we can all make a difference by ditching pesticides and growing bee-friendly plants.

Anyone interested in finding out more about these weird and wonderful creatures will enjoy this guide.

Love From Kew

by Sophie Shillito Kew Publishing; £15 This unique book is close to my heart having lived near the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, for many years, and anyone interested in the gardens, history, or just people's lives in general will enjoy flicking through. Sophie Shillito has collated old postcards and put them together to create a type of scrapbook, perfect for dipping in and out of, all showing images of the famous gardens, along with the messages and half-stories on the backs.

These are evocative and spark the imagination about the lives of those who visited, providing small slices of history, many sent during the 'golden age' of postcards in the early 1900s, when a record 926 million postcards were sent in a year in the UK. No longer is the Temperate House just a building, it's the place where a man once sheltered from the rain, while the Rhododendron Dell connects us with Nellie, who applied for a passport to return to New York, and we can't help wondering if she made it and what became of her.

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Gardeners’ World Almanac: A Month-ByMonth Guide To Your Gardening Year BBC Books; £16.99 This book is simply brilliant if you are looking for a straightforward guide that tells you what to do now in the garden. Organised clearly month by month, there are lists of plants that are at their best, tasks to do – whether in the flower borders, veg patch, greenhouse or pond – plus tips to help wildlife, alongside seasonal recipes and more. It's a clear and concise book you'll refer back to time and time again to keep your garden on track, and includes advice from gardening television personalities including Alan Titchmarsh, Adam Frost, Carol Klein and Frances Tophill.

The Little Grower’s Cookbook

by Ghillie James and Julie Parker Lettuce Publishing; £20 One for budding gardeners and cooks, this children's book offers activities to choose from throughout the seasons, with simple planting projects, recipes and making projects including a wormery, bug hotel and bird feeder. With an emphasis on recycling, wholesome living and healthy eating, this book will help children feel connected to nature and hopefully get them outside and away from those all-pervading screens. Reluctant veg eaters may well enjoy the involvement of growing and cooking their own produce, and the recipes are family-friendly with tasty delights such as Hedgehog Potatoes, Squeaky Salad, and Mint and Raspberry Lemonade on the menu.

The Flower Yard

by Arthur Parkinson Kyle Books; £22 This beautiful book is a joy to flick through, with sumptuous photographs taken by the author, immersing you in his own tiny garden, a floral world of plants grown in pots, plus the odd free-range chicken. Anyone lacking in outdoor space can gain inspiration from this book, along with those looking to create container displays as part of a larger garden. It shows what's possible, presenting a lack of space as a pro not a con. Practical issues are addressed – what type of pot or compost to buy, how to sow and grow – but The Flower Yard is largely a cornucopia of colour that easily earns its subtitle: growing flamboyant flowers in containers. It also has a section on creating seasonal indoor displays from cut flowers, stems and seedheads. n • ellyswellies.co.uk

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Elly’s Wellies

Garden Designs

Turning your ideas into beautiful spaces Elly’s Wellies Garden Designs will help you maximise the potential of your outdoor space and tailor it to your individual needs. Whether you are looking for a complete garden redesign, or just need advice on what to plant in a border, Elly’s Wellies will be happy to help.

For a free initial consultation, contact Elly West

www.ellyswellies.co.uk ellyswellies@gmail.com 07788 640934

THEBRISTOLMAG.CO.UK

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PROPERTY

Blandscapes to landscapes Attractive front gardens have a multitude of benefits, says Rupert Oliver of Rupert Oliver Property Agents, from improving our mental wellbeing and protecting the environment to drawing in potential new buyers.

Here, Rupert explains why it is so important to invest in this space

gardens is completely paved over and nearly one in three has no plants. Let’s crank that up significantly, to allow for all those that have been dug up in the interim to accommodate multi-occupier households and more and larger vehicles. We’re all now honed in to the need for sustainability in order to protect the climate, with many of us eating organic whole foods, cutting down our meat consumption, recycling our plastics and buying biodegradable coffee cups. But front gardens – which just haven’t got the same ‘promoting green living’ press – have a big part to play in protecting our planet, too.

In Greater London for example gardens (in general) make up a quarter of the land area, so every front garden eaten up by paving contributes to the overall reduction of living, breathing gardens and the increase in hard surfacing.

Rupert Oliver

A

front garden with lawn, shrubs, trees and flowers is now an increasingly rare sight.

So many dwellings have summarily swept away their traditional front gardens, instead welcoming in the tarmac surfacers and the paving installers. The result? Ungentle, cut-throat hard landscaping, an obsession with gravel, angular lines, the takeover of grey and brown, the occasional garden pot, sometimes a bench. But who wants to sit on a bench looking at block paving, Cotswold chippings or resin bond, with no living hedges or trees to subdue the traffic noise? Call me romantic, but I’d like a soulful bench with an experience, one that is softened and sheltered by the growth and scents of wisteria, periwinkle, lilac or camellia and where I can feel the give of natural growth under my feet.

Environmental issues There are more immediate practical problems. Hard landscaping brings the risk of floods, because soil absorbs rainwater, but it runs off impermeable surfaces, which puts pressure on drains and sewers and increases the pollution being washed into local rivers.

Hard landscaping also creates warmer temperatures because it absorbs and stores daytime heat, increasing the urban heat island effect. Fewer plants also mean there is less carbon dioxide absorbed and less space for insects, small mammals and birds.

Mental wellbeing Green space has a big impact on our physical and mental wellbeing and in pandemic times many of us have found a new sense of appreciation for our gardens and local green spaces. So perhaps we should all ask ourselves whether we should be valuing parking more highly than grass and shrubbery. The irony is that parking on a driveway doesn’t create more street parking because access is needed in front of the property, but it still increases the spread of impermeable surfaces on the local landscape.

There are compromises that can be made and parking can exist harmoniously alongside planting and trees. One way to modify the impact of a hard-landscaped garden is to create wheel tracks with a hard surface and fill in the surrounding area with grass. Add a hedge and some trellis with a climber, and the front garden starts to take shape.

When thinking about buying and selling, I return to my rural garden bench argument – the front of a house and its approach, whether green or not, is the first judgement you make about a new house. And if smelling the lilac and seeing the butterflies clustering on its blooms makes their hearts beat a bit faster, then you’ve drawn your potential buyers in before they’ve walked over the threshold.

• rupertoliver.co.uk; 14 Waterloo Street, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 4BT

The rise of the driveway The rot all started in 1995 under John Major’s government when car ownership was on the rise and planning rules were eased to permit kerb-drops, allowing cars to drive across pavements and park in their front gardens – which then became just ‘fronts’ or ‘blandscapes’. Driven by car ownership and ease of maintenance (no time to mow the lawn; let’s watch Netflix instead), what impact is this having on the kerb appeal of our houses and more importantly on our overall health?

Gardens are our planet The Royal Horticultural Society reported six years ago (in 2015) that one in four UK front 86 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE

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“If smelling the lilac and seeing the butterflies clustering on its blooms makes their hearts beat a bit faster, then you’ve drawn your potential buyers in before they’ve walked over the threshold.”

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• First Floor 2,375 sq ft • 6 car parking spaces total • Stunning views 69/71 OAKFIELD ROAD

34 WHITELADIES ROAD

• Contemporary studio office

• 1,949 sq ft

• Stylish offices to let • On-site car parking

• 3,200 sq ft • Prominent position

• Due to be refurbished

• New lease

• Excellent location opposite the BBC

• Excellent car parking FOR SALE 123 DOWNEND ROAD

105 WHITELADIES ROAD

• C 1,100 sq ft • For sale freehold • Parking & rear garden • REQUEST FOR INFORMAL BEST BIDS BY 12PM ON FRIDAY 3RD NOVEMBER

• Good sized unit • Use Class E – therefore suitable for range of uses • New lease • Rent only £20k per annum • Busy and vibrant location

7 QUEEN SQUARE, BS1

16 ORCHARD STREET

• Prime office space

• Stunning bright & contemporary offices

• 551 to 1,464 sq ft

• 404 sq ft

• Contemporary finish

• Prime location

• Under refurbishment

• New lease available

• New leases WESTFIELD PARK, CLEVEDON

EDEN OFFICE PARK • For sale • Excellent location between Clifton & Gordano • Modern office units • 925 sq ft – 5 car parking spaces • Only £185,000

• Excellent opportunity to purchase • First floor office suite • 997 sq ft • Established business park

Julian Cook FRICS

Jayne Rixon MRICS

Charlie Kershaw MRICS

Finola Ingham MRICS

Tom Coyte MRICS

Holly Boulton BSc(Hons)

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Sales / Lettings Acquisitions Valuations Landlord & tenant Auction Sales

• • • • •

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

FEATURED PROPERTIES

GRIFFIN HOUSE BS1

STUDIO STYLE OFFICE SUITES WITH VIEWS ACROSS BRISTOL

THIS CONTEMPORARY REFURBISHMENT PROVIDES OFFICES FROM 1,524 SQ FT TO 4,700 SQ FT (WHOLE BUILDING) TO LET – VERY COMPETITIVE RENT

THE BREWHOUSE @ FINZELS

THE BREWHOUSE @ FINZELS GEORGES SQUARE, BATH STREET BRISTOL, BS1 6LA

• UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE A COMMERCIAL PREMISES FORMING PART OF THE FINZELS REACH DEVELOPMENT • FOR SALE — VIRTUAL FREEHOLD • SUITABLE FOR A WIDE RANGE OF USES TO INCLUDE OFFICE / LEISURE / MEDICAL AND OTHER COMMERCIAL USES • LOW BUSINESS RATES—ONLY £6,237 PA • APPROX GIA 4,913 SQ FT (POSSIBLE SCOPE FOR ADDITIONAL MEZZANINE SPACE)

THANK YOU! In 2021 Burston Cook have disposed of more office and retail properties throughout Bristol than any of our competitors.

We would like to thank all of our clients and friends for their loyalty and support.

Merry Christmas and wishing you all contentment, good health and prosperity this coming year ...

Julian Cook

Jayne Rixon

Charlie Kershaw

Finola Ingham

Tom Coyte

Holly Boulton

Vicki Grimshaw

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