Killing Eve writer Suzanne
Heathcote brings a novel adaptation to Bristol Old Vic
Alternative living at Rockaway Park
Designing gardens to withstand downpours
TIME TO COSY UP
Create a snuggly corner at home
Unearthing the power of local mushrooms
Carol Vorderman speaks to us about her new book on politics, or as she puts it, ‘the three vowels and five consonants which control our world’
44
Postcards, photos and paintings to feast your eyes on
56
60
76
82
Learn how Bristol Fungarium’s team is using mushrooms for positive change
Andrew Swift explores the wonder of Bristol’s beautiful cemeteries
How are local revellers achieving more balance through exercise?
Our essential guide to creating a cosy corner in your home
Garden expert Elly West considers how to flood-proof your patch
It’s
Simply beautiful floors you’ll love for a lifetime
There’s been a quote floating around my head for a couple of weeks. I heard it from Mark Wilson, the man who founded Rockaway Park in Temple Cloud, who I spent an afternoon with for this issue. I’d first spotted the line in the signature of his emails: “Would those who say it can't be done, please stand clear of those doing it”. It instantly resonated –not because that’s the natural way I approach life (I’d much rather be a warrior than a worrier, but I seem to excel at the latter), it’s because the intent sums up the energy of so many conversations that end up printed on these pages. Bristolians know how to get things done, and aren’t afraid to question ‘the way things are’ to get results. The difference between adopting this can- and can’t-do attitude can be beyond life changing, which you can find out for yourself when you read more about Mark’s story, from page 40.
The lingering essence of the above motto runs through the spine of our November issue. Alongside the radical spirit of Rockaway Park, we’ve got a chat with Bristol Fungarium’s founder Tom Baxter, whose team is continually proving what ‘can’ be done with local mushrooms to improve people’s lives. Plus, there’s a riotous interview with this month’s cover star Carol Vorderman – a Clifton local – whose reaction to the latest election, and general disdain of government actions, has left her shouting, “Now what?!” into a figurative (and physical, as you’ll see from page 20) megaphone. That question fired her up enough to write a new book, which she spoke to Simon Horsford about in a frank and honest chat you won’t want to miss, and you can see her talk about it in person at the Clifton LitFest this month, too. But even rebels need to rest. And we’ve got just the tonic; a masterclass in curating a cosy corner at home where you can recouperate from resistance on page 76, including interior design tips and our best buys that’ll kit out your nest and feed your soul.
Hopefully the stories in this issue will nourish your mind while the year’s light dwindles, giving you plenty of reasons to get out of the house, and plenty more to stay home every now and then too.
Publisher Steve Miklos
Email: steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Financial Director Jane Miklos
Email: jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Editor Rosanna Spence
Tel: 0117 974 2800
Email: rosanna@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Assistant Editor/Web Editor Maria Robinson
Email: maria@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Editorial Assistant Isabelle Blakeney
Email: isabelle@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Production Manager Jeff Osborne
Email: production@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Advertising Sales Liz Grey
Email: liz@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
For advertising enquiries, please contact us on 0117 974 2800 Email: sales@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
The Bristol Magazine is published by MC Publishing Ltd. An independent publisher.
Every month, The Bristol Magazine is hand delivered to more than 15,000 homes in selected areas. We also deliver direct to companies and businesses across the city. Additionally there are many places where we have floor-stands and units for free pick-up:
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – which counts among its notable alumni Olivia Colman, Sir Daniel Day-Lewis, Naomie Harris, Sir Patrick Stewart and many, many other world-class stars – is putting on a number of shows throughout November sure to entertain and inspire. These include the seasonal fairytale Little Wren & Autumn Moon (16 Nov), musical puppetry adventure Jack Frost & The Winter Freeze (30 Nov) and classic tale Treasure Island (23-30 Nov) which are suitable for the whole family, as well as explosive courtroom drama set in 1759 The Welkin (9-16 Nov, pictured). For listings and more details about each performance, visit oldvic.ac.uk
The doors to Bristol’s Spiegeltent fling open from 28 November, welcoming in the winter with a packed event schedule. Once inside, the mundane-routine everyday will dissolve into a whirlwind of glitter, glamour and spine-tingly artistry. It includes family-friendly cabaret and discos, film screenings with live circus (To Catch a Thief), not to mention candle-lit orchestral evenings playing everything from Mozart to Miley Cyrus. christmasspiegeltent.co.uk
The Made in Bristol Gift Fair is back, bringing Bristol's vibrant celebration of creativity and community to life once again. The 23 November is the first of three ‘Super Saturdays’ of wonder and discovery at the iconic Bristol Beacon from 10am (also taking place 7 and 14 December). The carefully-curated gift fair shines a light on the best of the south-west's talented makers and designers, all under one roof. madeinbristolshop.co.uk/giftfair
Bristol’s favourite duo Wallace and Gromit are back in action and ready to serve up some family fun and holiday cheer. From Saturday 16 November to Tuesday 24 December, Cabot Circus will host Wallace & Gromit: A Cracking Christmas Experience, a one-of-a-kind festive event at the Friary Building in Quakers Friars. Help Wallace save Christmas by getting his latest gadget - the Christmas-O-Matic - up and running in the ‘St. Nick-of-time’. Once the mission is complete, new-found Christmas heroes will be welcomed into the Cracking Christmas Café. Tickets: cabotcircus.com
The Cold Water Dip is back! Whether the idea of dipping into cold water gives you the shivers or you’re a cold water regular, everyone is welcome to brave the chill for hospice patients. Join St Peter’s Hospice for this chilly challenge on Sunday 1 December at Portishead Open Air Pool from 2.30pm. By taking the plunge, you'll experience the amazing health benefits of cold water swimming while also supporting patients and their families facing the toughest times. Sign up today by visiting stpetershospice.org/coldwaterdip
Meet Terry Cox: jeweller and antiques dealer based in the Clifton Arcade
People ask me why I still work at 79. I work because I enjoy the shop, it’s as simple as that. But I also enjoy holidays – I still go on five-to-six a year. I couldn’t afford to retire, or go bankrupt, because my suppliers are friends. I wouldn’t dream of letting them down.
I was big into guns as a boy – it was a different world back then. I once ended up winning the Gloucestershire Championship in shooting. I didn’t realise it at the time, but I was about to compete against people from the British Olympic squad and ex-forces, including the army. I scored 1199.7 out of 1200 – I beat the lot.
I’d been selling items on the side of my factory job for about an extra tenner a week. Then when I was asked to sell some diamond rings for someone, I made around £300, more or less. That was about 20 weeks’ wages for me back then. After two years of working in the factory and selling on the side, I’d saved £5,000, which was about twice as much as my wife and I had bought our house for. I said to my wife – I’m going to take a risk. I took the gamble and went into jewellery full time.
This will be my 24th Christmas in the Clifton Arcade. I’ve been in three locations around Clifton since 1988 – firstly in a massive antiques centre in The Mall, with roughly 40 jewellers and antique dealers, where I was for about 10 years. They closed that down to try and turn it into an Irishthemed pub, but they didn’t know how much clout the people of Clifton had, and we stopped it. Five of us then moved down the road, opposite to where The Ivy Brasserie is now, which we called the New Clifton Antiques Centre, for the final seven years of a 21-year lease.
Back in the early 80s, gold chains were the ‘in’ thing. I used to supply every jeweller in Clifton with gold chains back then – and I mean everyone. I was selling roughly three to five kilos of gold chains a week between 42 shops. Now we do get asked for gold chains, but it’s nothing like the 80s. The biggest seller currently in gold is gold tube hoops. But in diamonds? Take your pick.
The most memorable item I’ve ever sold was an Edwardian ruby and diamond necklace to someone in London’s Burlington Arcade. It had a minimum of 15 carats of diamonds and 20 carats of rubies. Initially I was supplying 36 shops, including in Hatton Garden, London’s jewellery quarter, Bond Street and Burlington Arcade. I’ve supplied shops you wouldn't believe, the top quality ones and the local ones as well. I’ve supplied royalty and actors of stage and screen – films stars and supermodels – the lot. We once had royalty visit our Bath Business Centre. I didn’t twig who it was at first, until I saw people curtseying and bowing around me.
In the past I’ve had two strokes. I also underwent a very serious operation three years ago, but my motto in life is ‘never give up’.
You can visit Terry Cox in his shop, which is located at: Clifton Village Antiques, 2 Clifton Arcade, Boyce’s Avenue, BS8 4AA
Cameron Mackintosh and Disney Theatrical Group’s classic multi award-winning musical Mary Poppins opens at Bristol Hippodrome from 4 November (and runs for the whole month), before it goes on to tour the UK for an entire year. The show features Stefanie Jones as Mary Poppins, Jack Chambers as Bert and Patti Boulaye as Birdwoman. Since its premiere at the Bristol Hippodrome in 2004, the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins has gone on to recordbreaking productions around the world, gaining over 50 major international awards, including two Olivier Awards and one Tony Award. Over 15 million people have witnessed the magic worldwide with the production having been translated into 13 languages.
To book tickets for the show at Bristol Hippodrome, visit atgtickets.com/bristol
This year, Remembrance Day falls on Sunday 10 November, with a two-minute silence being held at 11am to honour those whose lives have been lost to war. There are many events and gatherings being held across the city where you can go to pay your respects, which include a Requiem Mass held at Bristol Cathedral. The Cathedral Choir will sing Fauré’s hauntingly beautiful setting of the Requiem and all are welcome to the service, which begins this year at 3.30pm. There will also be a street parade in Staple Hill from 10am on 10 November at Page Road car park, travelling down the High Street and into Page Park for a service at the War Memorial. If you’re in Clifton, there will be a gathering on 10 November at 10.15am at All Saints church War Memorial where a list of names will be read of those from the parish who lost their lives in the two World Wars. A silence, wreath-laying and service will be observed at the cenotaph in the city centre from 11am (with a parade heading there from College Green at 10.30am) and a war graves tour at Arnos Vale Cemetery from 2pm. Tickets available via arnosvale.org.uk.
Dame Jilly Cooper’s celebrated novel Rivals has been released as a TV adaptation on Disney+, depicting the shocking and steamy antics of the social elite of 1980s England.
Predominantly filmed in and around Bristol and starring David Tennant, Danny Dyer, Aidan Turner and Emily Atack, the series is already garnering huge momentum, with ‘80s nostalgia at the fore. Visit Bristol has shared some ways to have your own ‘80s Rivalsinspired adventures in the city, including a staycation at the Harbour Hotel, which is two converted banks in the Old City, and a key filming location for Rivals. Or you could step on board the last Concorde to fly and visit Aerospace Bristol where key scenes of Rivals were also filmed. As well as lots of filming for Rivals taking place at the renowned Bottle Yard Studios south of the city, Bristol Film Office supported many city centre filming locations, which you can scout out. Corn Street in Old City is the backdrop for some glamorous scenes (with filming also taking place at Cosy Club), and Queen Square was transformed into a fictional street for the series. Rivals was also part-filmed in Bath.
Head to the website visitbristol.co.uk for more ideas, information and inspiration
After seven months, seven school workshops and 150 submissions, three judges have selected the four winners of ‘thinkand-do’ tank Curiosity Un(Ltd)’s Designs4Change competition, held in collaboration with Clear Channel UK. Inspirational designs were sought to honour and celebrate the Bristol Bus Boycott and its significant contribution to racial equality in Britain.
The four winners are Marcia Brown, Amara Lawrence, Gwen Balmer and Martha Clarke from Two Mile Hill Primary School. The winning designs were unveiled recently as artwork displayed on bus stops across Bristol, including Colston Avenue, Stonebridge House City Centre, Lewins Mead, Nelson Street, and Rupert Street. curiosityunltd.com
Stilt-walking and circus acts will be among the extra attractions when Bristol’s Cary Comes Home festival marks the 120th anniversary of the birth in the city of Hollywood star Cary Grant with a programme looking at how his early years as an acrobat influenced his screen performances and inform his wider impact on action cinema.
In all, the festival will screen eight Car y Grant films between 29 November and 1 December, backed by talks, walks, live music, a golden age of Hollywood-themed dressing-up competition and appearances by circus performers. The main festival venue is the Bristol Megascreen, at Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road, and the biggest screen in the West Country. Films in the line-up include Grant’s stunt-peppered romantic comedies The Awful Truth (1937), Bringing Up Baby (1938), Holiday (1938, pictured above), My Favourite Wife (1940) and the Hitchcock thriller North By Northwest (1958), in which Grant’s physical skills are highlighted when he evades a bullet-spraying plane, scales a villain’s lair and does battle on Mount Rushmore.
For more info, visit carycomeshome.com
Quilted Ripstop Ski Jacket. in Crocodile Green-Brazil, £539
Give the gift of glamour with our collection of beauty gift sets. The perfect idea for beauty lovers, this hand-picked collection is home to everything they desire and features favourites from makeup and skincare to fragrance and haircare – you might even want to treat yourself. All products are available at Harvey Nichols Bristol or online at harveynichols.com
Volumizing Glossy Balm Duo, £57
Exclusively available for Holiday 2024, the Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm Duo features a coveted and brand-new shade of the HOURGLASS unique lip formula – Trace 105, a bestselling beige hue, and Mystic 150, a brand-new coral with a pearlescent finish. This innovative 3-in-1 hybrid hydrates like a lip balm, plumps for fuller-looking lips, and delivers the high-shine finish of a lip gloss.
Cloud Mascara & Eyelash Growth Serum Set, £60
Sweed Cloud Mascara delivers full volume and limitless length in a blink as the exclusive cloud brush gives a beautiful volumising effect and precisely separates each lash from root to tip for a dramatic fan-like effect. The nourishing mascara has a vegan formula infused with panthenol (vitamin B5) for long, full and lightweight lashes that don't flake or smudge and keep the curl in place with a long-lasting effect. The mascara is water resistant but not waterproof. The eyelash Growth Serum that contains a highly effective blend of active ingredients to promote longer and healthier lashes.
THE ORDINARY The Mini Discovery Set, £24.90
The Prestige Coffret
Supremÿa At Night, £967
Supremÿa At Night The Supreme Anti-Aging Skin Care Lotion is a preparatory Anti-Aging
Skin Care Lotion to initiate the regenerating and repairing power of the Supremÿa At Night ritual. Instantly, the skin is softer and silkier. Night after night, with the Supremÿa skin care products, the face looks visibly rested and the skin seems smoother, toned and radiates youthfulness.
Christmas B Silent Gift, £55
A wellness gamechanger. This limited-edition set includes Bamford’s B Silent Pillow Mist and Candle, encouraging relaxation of the body and mind. Frankincense, gentle lavender and marjoram aid reduction of tension and promote peaceful sleep. Enclosed in a box adorned with joyful illustrations, including one of Santa and his reindeer, evoking seasonal cheer.
Get Your Shine On Gift Set, £43
Get full-sizes of top OLAPLEX styling products for sleek, soft, hydrated, healthy-looking hair. No.6 Bond Smoother® is anti-frizz and humidity resistant for frizzfree air-dries and smoother blow-dries. Bestselling OLAPLEX No.7 dramatically boosts shine, reduces breakage, and protects from heat.
The Mini Discovery Set is the ideal place to begin with The Ordinary. It features miniature sizes of some of the brand’s most popular formulations for a complete skincare regimen. These are presented in a branded pouch that is perfect for storing skincare products, either at home or during travel. The set includes a cleanser, exfoliating toner, face serums, an eye serum and a moisturiser, which can be used together.
Vibrant Energy Collection, £365
Illuminate the holiday season with a limited edition gift set of luxury treasures, featuring The Treatment Lotion 30ml, The Concentrate 15ml, The Eye Concentrate 15ml and The Moisturising Soft Cream 30ml, all sure to make the season merry and bright.
The Trending Edit, £36
Home to their viral sensation the Instant Detox Mask, their much-loved multi-use Beauty Elixir mist and their dark spot correcting Vinoperfect Serum. This set promises to leave a glow-worthy complexion.
Cheirosa Perfume Mist Set, £33
This perfume mist sampler set provides you with the ultimate fragrance wardrobe. Each of Sol De Janeiro’s Cheirosa fragrance mists doubles as a hair perfume and body spray and features a deliciously distinctive scent that is an invitation to exploration.
Carol Vorderman has something to say about the state of the nation. So much, in fact, that she's channelled her fury into a new book, which she’ll be discussing at Clifton LitFest on 15 November. Simon Horsford caught up with her for a frank and honest chat about the journey into politics, and why she loves living in Bristol
I’ve always been a fighter,” says Carol Vorderman, the former Countdown maths whizz. These combative instincts became more apparent during the past of couple of years, when she proved to be a surprisingly effective thorn in the side of the Conservative Party via her numerous tweets eviscerating its 14 turbulent years in office. She mentions this when I ask how she has coped with the many, sometimes vicious, brickbats thrown at her in print and online because of her stance, “I won’t be bullied,” she declares, “I’ve had 30 years of this, this is not my first rodeo, so you can say what you like, mate. I’m here.” And her legions of supporters (she has more than 988,000 followers on X and over 620,000 on Instagram) appear to far outweigh the naysayers.
“ An older woman gets her power when she doesn’t care what others think of her anymore ”
Talking over the phone from her PR office in London, Vorderman, who lives in Bristol, admits it’s quite a change of gear from the days of Countdown, presenting Tomorrow’s World and Loose Women and appearing on the likes of Have I Got News For You. But she adds, “believe me, it wasn’t planned. I think when you’re in your sixties, I will be 64 in December, you get to a point in life when, and David Bowie said it brilliantly, ‘ageing is a process by which you become the person you always should have been’, and I absolutely agree.”
It’s a point she reiterates in her recently published book Now What?, which takes the form of a politically-skewed diary of the past two years and a “plan for change” (from electoral reform to having the House of Commons function outside of London for part of the year), but also details her own life and upbringing – “growing up in poverty” – and how she got to where she is now.
It also reiterates her belief that “an older woman gets her power when she doesn’t care what others think of her anymore… becoming comfortable in her behaviour and reasons for raising the roof.”
In many ways Vorderman could be viewed as a very modern phenomenon in her morphing from TV celebrity to social media, anticorruption firebrand (as the novelist Jonathan Coe put it). Her stance prompted the Glasgow Herald to call her the “real leader of the opposition”, while even the Daily Mail suggested she was a “surprise
Leftie poster girl”. So what was it that triggered the switch – was there a flashpoint, or was it more of a slow-burning frustration?
“Well, I have kind of tinkered around the edges of politics for decades, particularly to do with safety of children online and maths” – (in 2001, David Blunkett appointed her to a Labour taskforce that helped form the world’s first law to make grooming a child online illegal; six years later she chaired a maths panel for David Cameron to improve teaching in schools. In 2010 she also set up the Maths Factor, an engaging maths homework site for 4- to 11-year-olds).
Her current engagement with politics “was slow-burning for a year or so, but it was really after first lockdown. The things still to this day and probably to the day I die that were impossible to comprehend were ‘partygate’ and the ‘PPE VIP lane’. When everyone was trying to help everyone else and we were told we were ‘all in it together’, and for the first time in my lifetime people were being locked in their houses, to learn that not only were we lied to and gaslit, but that many Tories were profiteering from that time and still are today... I think a number of them should be behind bars.”
Her first political tweet targeted the Conservative peer Baroness Michelle Mone about revelations that she had lobbied for PPE contracts – but others to feel her sting included Rishi Sunak, Suella Braverman, Nadhim Zahawi and, infamously, a spat with the former veterans’ minister Johnny Mercer and his wife, but in the main it was the Tory party as whole that she went for, calling them at one point, “a lying bunch of greedy, corrupt, destructive, hateful, divisive, gaslighting crooks”.
“ I’ve always had the devil in me, it just normally comes out at parties! ”
Vorderman is as frank and honest in conversation as she is in her book, but what comes across in both is an almost crusading fervour and an anger at the way she believes “everything is on its knees” in Britain and where the blame lies – she’s a keyboard rebel on a mission. It’s a side of her personality markedly different from the one portrayed back in the eighties as the “vital statistician” on Channel 4’s Countdown (a phrase you wouldn’t get away with now). But she admits: “I’ve always had the devil in me, it just normally comes out at parties! I’m also one of those people who is hyper-focused and I’m a workaholic, boots in and everything. I think it’s my nature.”
Vorderman left her BBC Radio Wales show last year over the corporation’s new social media guidelines, and then went on to present a Sunday afternoon slot on LBC, which gave her far more freedom. The phone-in offered the chance to call out the topics of the day, among them the missteps (and successes) of the current government. Vorderman recently made the decision to leave her LBC show, in mid October, after ‘burning out’ due to her seven-day work week schedule.
So the energy that she has channelled into this political foray is par for the course. Ambition and a desire to succeed are clearly part of her DNA too and perhaps her drive comes from her childhood, which she talks about eloquently in the book, with her hard-working mother bringing up three children, sometimes as a single parent, while Vorderman’s “cleverness” saw her jump from being a “free school meals kid” at a North Wales comprehensive to gaining a place at Cambridge University studying engineering.
Social media: it’s a bit ‘Wild West’
One particular strand of the book examines how politics influences so many aspects of our lives, from health to education and work, and yet she bemoans the fact that there remains a huge detachment between the public and those who govern – as Vorderman points out, the turnout for the election in July of 59.9% was the second lowest since 1918.
“It’s like the lifeblood of our country has been sucked out by the Tories over 14 years.”
She continues: “We have more news stations and more news channels than ever before and yet the disconnect grows.” In a recent Alternative McTaggart lecture in Edinburgh, Vorderman suggested that for the first time a quarter of people in the UK are not watching broadcast television on a weekly basis. “Social media – no longer the new kid, more like the badly behaved uncle, has changed our society and its rules. What it gives everyone… the opportunity to do, is to see and hear views they recognise, in language they recognise.”
But what about the negative and extremist side of the likes of X? Surely that makes everything more fragmented? “I think social media as with all new technology can be good or bad and it’s a bit Wild West at the moment,” Vorderman admits, “there [also] shouldn’t be the level of online abuse but there is, particularly for women. I’ll be targeting the misogynists next.”
But is a change in political engagement possible? “People started saying nothing will change, that they will always get away with it,” says Vorderman, “but I thought ‘No, together we are stronger’. I came across ‘StopTheTories’ [a tactical voting website] and joined a band of voluntary musketeers. Tactical voting became a big thing, with people voting Lib Dem or Green where suitable.”
The result, she suggests, is that “Labour has been loaned millions of votes, tactical votes, and they’ve got to do a damn good job as the Tories have left this country in an absolute state. But can they pull it out of the bag? I don’t know.”
Vorderman has said in the past that she is centrist and isn’t politically active locally in Bristol, although admits, “I suppose on a council level I
could be an independent if anyone wanted to vote for me, but I think we’ve got some good councillors and that’s why Carla [Denyer, the Green Party MP for Bristol Central] did so well because the councillors have done well for us, they are very active and she benefited from that because we were already pleased with one level of local government.”
Despite describing herself as a northerner – she was brought up around Prestatyn and Rhyl in north Wales, “the holiday strip” for the north-west, Vorderman is happily settled in Bristol, where she has been for “around 17/18 years.”
“I love it because it’s chilled and isn’t posh and I’m not posh, although it has some beautiful buildings and there are some lovely parts like Clifton and around the harbour now. I love that there are so many students, who make me laugh and there is a passion there.” Aside from walking around the city, Mercy Mercy Mercy is a favoured café destination in Clifton, while the Everyman cinema is another haunt, which she goes to with her son Cameron (she also has a daughter, Katie, a research scientist).
“ Some people would just call me a gobsh*te ”
So, as Vorderman claims to be a bit of a party animal, I ask who would she invite to a fantasy dinner party?
“My friend [the actress] Sally Lindsay, Nye Bevan, a definite, [she describes him in her book as ‘a man born into poverty in the 1800s and still affecting our lives today’], Lord Denning, from a massive Welsh mining family, he became Master of the Rolls and was very out there, very pro women, he was amazing and proper working class, and Betty Boothroyd [the first female Speaker of the Commons]. Then [the comedian/actor] Robin Williams, and I’d have Elvis, Tom Jones and David Bowie.”
It would, I imagine, be quite a rowdy night. Finally, I wonder if it took courage to put her head above the parapet? She laughs and says, “I don’t know, some people would just call me a “gobsh*te”. n
Now What? On a Mission to Fix Broken Britain is out now. Carol Vorderman will discuss the book at Clifton LitFest 2024 on November 15 at Christ Church, Clifton; for more info on the event, visit foccal.com/litfest
There won’t be a single “Bah, Humbug!” in the city when Celestial and Yuup’s re‐imagining of A Christmas Carol takes to the skies above Seat Unique Stadium in December, which will see the classic Charles Dickens tale be told in a format never seen before
The classic Christmas story A Christmas Carol is being brought to Bristol in a format never seen before, with a drone-led, epicscale spectacle that fuses cutting-edge technology with artistic brilliance promising an experience that will leave you and your loved ones mesmerised.
The famous characters will be brought to life in the sky performed by hundreds of perfectly synchronised animated drone lights, with the tale narrated by talented actor and comedian (and former University of Bristol student) Matt Lucas.
The classic tale takes us on a journey with the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve, as visits from ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come lead Scrooge to undergo a profound transformation. Audiences will witness these famous characters brought to life in the sky above them.
The story culminates in Scrooge realising the error of his mean ways and embracing the spirit of Christmas and goodwill towards others.
“I am thrilled to be narrating this new and exciting take on a Christmas classic,” Lucas said of his starring role. “Using drones to tell a traditional story is brilliantly inventive and a glimpse into the future of entertainment. It’s a magical way to bring friends and family together during the festive season, and I’m sure unforgettable memories will be made.”
Drone light storytelling is a whole new form of entertainment, a futuristic theatrical experience on the world’s biggest stage – the sky. But what makes this particular performance in Bristol so special?
“A Christmas Carol is a beloved tale that has been endlessly retold across various genres,” says explains John Hopkins, CEO of Celestial, the drone show company behind the magic (in collaboration with local experiences brand Yuup). “This time, it is uniquely presented through drone art, elevating it beyond a traditional drone light show to an epic, stadium-scale experience. This innovative artistic medium brings audiences together through a shared sense of wonder to celebrate a universal story of human transformation. We are thrilled to have Matt Lucas narrate this unique show, adding an extra layer of magic to the experience.”
Hopkins adds that their shows are longer than traditional drone shows, which tend to be around eight minutes and are sort of seen as a fireworkreplacement gimmick. “We’re choosing to use this new medium to tell longer stories. A Christmas Carol is 45 minutes long, which is much more immersive and involved. You can tell a much fuller story that emotionally carries audiences away with the narrative. What's exciting about the ticketed drone show paradigm is that we're now really playing to our creative strengths; getting to flex our storytelling muscles”.
Storytelling among the stars
Technology, music, animation and storytelling are blended to create a unique, emotive experience to evoke awe and wonder from audiences. Each drone is programmed to follow a meticulously choreographed routine, creating epic imagery against the backdrop of the night sky.
The drones use LED light to transform the night sky into a canvas for mesmerising storytelling, and the technology ensures that the hundreds of drones are all controlled as a single unit. The show is designed specifically for the venue at Seat Unique Stadium (following Celestial and Yuup’s successful show Evolution held at the same venue last year) having reviewed the venue’s unique setup and vantage points to ensure everyone attending has the best seat in the house.
“Partnering in a futuristic experience such as A Christmas Carol as a drone light show is hugely exciting,” says Dominic Mills, founder and CEO of Yuup. “Since bringing Evolution to Bristol last winter, our shows have now been viewed by over 60,000 people, and each show gets bigger and better, extending the length considerably from our earlier productions. To have Matt Lucas as the narrator of the show makes this a brilliant festive experience not to be missed here in Bristol.”
Keen to understand how the teams create such a dazzling display go from ideas into reality?
“When creating a new show, we get the project down on paper first, then go into the design phase, where we animate the show with the
soundtrack. Then it’s the final phase, where we deploy the show,” says Hopkins. “Drones have a duration cap – they can't fly in the air for certain times, so in order to extend our shows, we've got several flights staggered. It feels like you’re watching drones in the air for 40 minutes, but actually it’s been several separate flights cleverly stitched together. The drones will be flying quite low down to the ground, keeping them enclosed within the stadium – I think the uppermost part of the show can be 100 metres.”
Alongside the 45-minute aerial display, Seat Unique Stadium is offering a whole host of entertainment, with a festive funfair and food village part of the experience – and as well as the seated stadium experience throughout the show, there are additional hospitality options available for guests to book. n
For those keen to secure a ticket to this spellbinding show, tickets are £24 per adult and £17 for children and concessions, and can be purchased online: yuup.co/a-christmas-carol
Seat Unique Stadium is also the home of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, Nevil Road, BS7 9EJ. Shows will take place Thursday 19, Friday 20 December and Saturday 21 December; gates and food village open at 2.30pm (early show) and 7pm 19:00 (late show); show starts at 4.50pm (early show) and 8.45pm (late show); and ends at 5.35pm (early show) and 9.30pm (late show).
Our guide to the best things to see and do this month
Harold Stephens LPA Seminar n 6 November, 1pm-3pm Stoke Lodge, BS9 1BN
Join the seminar, which will cover financial and legal obligations, as well as reviewing care choices so you can be sure you have covered everything necessary in your LPA. Book with Amy by emailing community@haroldstephens.co.uk; 0117 3636 212. haroldstephens.co.uk
Planetarium Nights
n 7 & 21 November, 7pm & 8.30pm
We The Curious
Looking for a unique date night or fun a Thursday evening with friends? Whether you are 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. Grab yourself a drink from the bar, and enjoy the exhibits in the Space Gallery beforehand. wethecurious.org
Macramé Workshops by Knots & Stalks n Various dates throughout November
Tobacco Factory Theatres
Perfect for crafters of all levels, these workshops by Aggy offer a wonderful opportunity to explore your creativity while making beautiful handmade pieces out of recycled cotton: Plant Hangers (9 Nov), Macramé & Sound Bath (10 Nov), Earrings & Prosecco (14 Nov), Leaf Wall Hangings (23 Nov) and Christmas Wreaths (30 Nov). These workshops also make thoughtful Christmas gifts, with vouchers available for purchase. Don’t miss out on a chance to create something special while enjoying a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Bookings at knotsandstalks.com
Bristol Choral Society: Hear My Prayer n 12 November, 7.30pm-9.30pm
Bristol Cathedral, BS1 5TJ
Motets by Bach, Mendelssohn, Brahms and more! For BCS’ first concert of the 24/25 season, enjoy some beautiful Lieder in the wonderful surroundings of Bristol Cathedral, including Mendelssohn’s well known Hear My Prayer. bristolchoral.co.uk
Bristol City Choir: Brilliance & Beauty n 17 November, 6pm
St George's Bristol, BS1 5RR
An Enchanté Evening with Inkie n 7 November, 7pm-10pm
Second Floor Restaurant, Harvey Nichols Bristol, BS1 3BZ
Join Harvey Nichols Bristol for a showcase dinner to celebrate the launch of world-class graffiti artist Inkie’s latest exhibition Enchanté. Tickets are £45 per person and include canapés, a three-course meal and a welcome drink. harveynichols.com/events
at Wake The Tiger
n 9 November until 5 January
Known for its innovative and immersive experiences, the art park will transport visitors through decades of Christmas memories, combining retro charm with mind bending, surrealism, incuding festive android robots created by artist Giles Walker singing acapella performances of holiday classics. wakethetiger.com
City of Bristol Choir and Brandon Hill Chamber Orchestra perform virtuosic music from England and Italy, including Handel’s Dixit Dominus, Vivaldi’s Lauda Jerusalem and Vaughan Williams’ Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus, with dazzling soloists from the Royal Opera House. Tickets £15 to £25 for adults plus booking fees, half price for full time students and under-18s. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk; 0117 929 4929
Gwyneth Goes Skiing n 20-23 November, 7.30pm (plus 2.30pm Sat)
Tobacco Factory Theatres
After sell-out London runs, critical acclaim, a US transfer and a run at Edinburgh Fringe, join harbingers of queer chaos Awkward Productions as they transform TFT into Deer Valley Ski Resort to tell the story (well, kind of) about Gwyneth Paltrow’s skiing accident that led to a bizarre courtroom case watched by the whole world. tobaccofactorytheatres.com
Continued on page 30
Christmas Artisan Craft Fair n 24 November, 10am-3.30pm Ashton Court Mansion, BS41 9JN
Bristol makers and crafters will take over Ashton Court Mansion with 40 stalls indoors. Handmade gifts will include cards, artwork, jewellery, soaps, candles, knits, crochets, textiles, bags, Christmas wreaths and decorations, craft beer, preserves and much more. The café will be open serving teas, coffees and cakes. £2 entry and under-16s go free. For more information, contact anniehawksley@blueyonder.co.uk
James Lisney plays Chopin: Ballades, Impromptus and Nocturnes n 27 November, 7.30pm-10.30pm St George's Bristol, BS1 5RR
James Lisney returns to St George’s with some of Chopin’s bestloved piano music in a concert programme that displays the Polish composer’s mastery of epic narration (the Four Ballades), profound poetry (a selection of Nocturnes), and the skills of the salon virtuoso (the Impromptus). Tickets from £12. The concert will also be livestreamed. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
Christmas at Westonbirt n From 29 November Tetbury, GL8 8QS
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is hosting a brand-new festive light experience in Gloucestershire. Forestry England has teamed up with the award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers behind Christmas at Kew and Christmas at Blenheim to host a never-before-seen experience for all the family. To book tickets, visit forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/Christmas
Blade Runner: The Final Cut by Bristol Film Festival n 30 November, 9.10-11.30pm
The Planetarium, We The Curious
Explore the Planetarium’s Space exhibition before the screening and see if you’re cut out for a life in space, then recline in this unique screening space. As the lights dim, your journey will begin with a tour of the Solar System in a Planetarium star show - the perfect way to set the scene for your film. bristolfilmfestival.com
Looking ahead...
Luxury Christmas wreath making workshop n 1 December, 5pm-7pm
The Granary, 32 Welsh Back, BS1 4SB
All materials for a luxury wreath will be provided, including Nordic pine, eucalyptus, herbs, berries, olive branches, dried fruit and ribbon. A glass of fizz or a non-alcoholic fizz will be ready and waiting when you arrive and if you fancy eating beforehand, The Granary is offering an exclusive 20% discount off your bill for all attendees who dine with the restaurant too. granarybristol.com; tickets available via EventBrite
Exultate Singers: Carols by Candlelight n 11 December at 7.30pm & 14 December at 4.30pm
St James Priory, Whitson Street, BS1 3NZ
Exultate Singers performs an exquisite programme of Christmas music, the perfect preparation for the festive season. Enjoy a wonderfully atmospheric evening in the beautiful surroundings of Bristol’s oldest building, St James Priory.
Tickets £13 to £22 available online at exultatesingers.org and by phone on 01275 373981 (9am to 5pm)
Our pick of the best things to see and do with the little ones this month
Westonbirt Autumn Family Trail
n Until 30 November
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum
The ‘Tree Guardians’ trail reveals how the trees at Westonbirt are cared for, how they are protected in the wild, how trees cope with climate change and how the arboretum is working with tree experts around the world to protect and conserve trees. Try some wildlife detective activities as you go and have fun playing the mini ‘Tree Trumps’ game as you follow the trail. Keep playing when you are home by downloading the rest of Forestry England’s Tree Trumps card game. Find the notebook along the trail and make a pledge to protect trees for the future! Self-guided trail suitable for children aged 7yrs and over. forestryengland.uk/westonbirt
Chain Reaction
n Weekends during term time
We The Curious
Become an inventor and work together to make an elaborate chain reaction (Rube Goldberg) machine. Use balls, dominoes and other contraptions to tackle some of the challenges of the climate crisis in a playful way. You’ll work together to overcome obstacles, and get hands-on exploration of forces, physics and engineering – all with a high-energy finale! Free activity included with your day ticket. Timed sessions, check times on arrival. Perfect for kids aged 5+, a great way for the whole family to get involved. wethecurious.org
Mary Poppins
n 4-30 November
Bristol Hippodrome, Tue-Sat at 7.30pm, Wed and Sat at 2.30pm, Sun at 2pm
Acclaimed Australian stars, Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having both received critical acclaim and nightly standing ovations for their performances in the
recent Australian production. Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the world’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before, featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. atgtickets.com/bristol
RWA Baby Tours
n 14 November, 11am-12.30pm
RWA Bristol
Baby Tours are a relaxed and informal session in a safe and comfortable space for parents/caregivers with babies (12 months and under). This is an opportunity to explore artworks without any pressure or worries about noise. In this session you can enjoy the new exhibition, the 171st Annual Open Exhibition in the RWA main gallery. Admission is free, booking recommended. rwa.org.uk
Little Wren and the Autumn Moon
n 16 November, 10.30am-12.30pm
Bristol Old Vic
There’s trouble in Little Wren’s neighbourhood. The autumn leaves are changing colour but the forest is in danger and a full moon is on its way. Come to a magical Leigh Woods, as you’ve never seen it before, for a new fairy-tale about how we care for our world. There’ll be live music, puppetry, martial arts mayhem and a whole ton of autumn leaves in this brandnew story for children of all ages. Presented by Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. bristololdvic.org.uk
Science in action: Animal senses
n 23-24 November, one hour sessions at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
What would it be like to feel the world through electricity, see the world through sound or have eight eyes? Dive into the world of bats, electric fish and jumping spiders! Scientists from the University of Bristol, the Institute of Philosophy, the School of Advanced Study, University of London, the University of Warwick and the LSE are looking for children and their families to take part in real scientific research about how different animals experience the world. Join for interactive art activities, VR experiences and get up close with specimens from the museum’s extensive natural history collections. Suitable for children 5-11 years (must be accompanied by an adult at all times). Free, booking essential. bristolmuseums.org.uk
Treasure Island
n 23-30 November, various performances
Redgrave Theatre
Yo-ho-ho-ho, matey! Hoist the mainsail as we depart from Bristol for a daring adventure with young Jim Hawkins against legendary pirate Long John Silver. Will Jim outwit the rascal crew and uncover the island’s mysterious secrets before it’s too late? Bristol Old Vic Theatre School reimagines the epic swashbuckling tale for families this festive season. Suitable for ages 6+. redgravetheatre.com
Junior Jungle
n 30 November, 1.30pm-3.30pm
Bristol Spiegeltent
Bristol’s family-favourite ravers are back and ready to blow everyone’s socks off. Amped up and ready to discharge powerful vibes through the dancefloor, Nick Terrific and MC Rocky Patch will be unleashing their profound and profane take on life. It's the perfect party for both little and big junglists. christmasspiegeltent.co.uk
Victorian Winter Wonderland at Brunel’s SS Great Britain
n 7-8 December
SS Great Britain
Brunel’s SS Great Britain will be transformed into a Dickensian winter wonderland – complete with guaranteed snow. Young explorers can meet Old Father Christmas, who will be wearing the traditional green robes of the Victorian era. He’ll be accompanied by
a crew of 19th century costumed characters, who will be telling magical stories of Christmases past. Visitors can expect a choral extravaganza, with singing groups from around the South West set to bring seasonal cheer throughout the weekend. The dockyard will be covered in holly, ivy, and mistletoe, and hand-made Victorian decorations will deck the halls of the ship. Book in advance. ssgreatbritain.org
A gripping new adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s international best‐selling novel Never Let Me Go arrives at Bristol Old Vic in November, so we caught up with Suzanne Heathcote ahead of the world premiere telling the heart‐breaking ‘near‐f i’ tale about love and loss to find out more about her creative process
It’s only natural to ponder on your life’s purpose. What are we doing here? How can we live a more meaningful existence? But how would you feel if your whole reason for being was brought into question? Hopes, dreams, feelings for others, plans for the future –plans for what you’ll eat for dinner tomorrow… these would become meaningless in a dystopian society that values only what you give to another person you’ll never get to know or meet.
Curious to know more? Kazuo Ishiguro’s incredible novel Never Let Me Go drops us into such a world, following the lives of Kathy, Tommy and Ruth as they navigate friendship, love and predetermined fates – and confront what it means to be human.
The novel’s themes have been given a fresh perspective in Suzanne Heathcote’s (Killing Eve, The Crowded Room) new adaptation for stage, which sees memory and reality collide in gripping fashion. Here, Suzanne tells us about the journey from page to stage…
This play has been a long time in the making! Back in 2015, my literary agent asked if I would be interested in writing a stage adaptation for the book – which I absolutely was – and I met with Kazuo, who was incredibly generous and supportive from the outset. He told me to not be precious with the novel and to really make the play my own – which is an incredible gift to be given by the author. It was then several years later when Chris Hayden, the artistic director of The Rose theatre, got in touch about commissioning the play and potentially scheduling it for production. I spend a lot of time writing film and television in Los Angeles, so when all the screenwriters went on strike last year, I knew it was the perfect moment to focus entirely on the play and I wrote the first full draft of the script during that period.
I was, and am, such a huge fan of Kazuo’s work. I love the way he reveals his stories through his characters. Never Let Me Go is made up of these
beautifully crafted, nuanced observations from Kathy’s perspective that enable you to understand her and the people she's observing with such insight. I think that’s why his novels are so moving. You develop such a profound empathy and understanding for the people and worlds he creates.
During the course of my creative process, I read the book so many times I was able to reference it without looking at the text. This was really just a consequence of having sat with it for so long, but it gave me an enormous freedom when writing the scenes, as I felt I knew the characters instinctively and could own them in the way I needed to. With regards to the story itself, the book is made up of lots of tiny, beautiful moments, which are wonderful to read but very hard to put on stage, so I needed to find ways to take the essence of those moments and make them scenes that worked dramatically. I mapped out all of Kathy’s memories and took the ones that I felt were most important to tell the story. I then tried to find ways to weave them in and out of Kathy's present-day arc. Another challenge was deciding who Kathy is talking to, as in the novel she's the main narrator. I really didn’t want her to give a direct address to the audience throughout the play, so I needed to find another way for her take us through these memories. There’s a moment in the first chapter of the book where Kathy mentions someone she was caring for, who would ask her lots of questions about her childhood –and it came to me that this relationship was the way into Kathy's past and the play.
The essence of the story for me has always been the love story between the three main characters. Thematically the novel is also about a subclass who have been placed within a system without their consent, but with their silent compliance. That being said, the novel doesn't show you their community from the outside, which is why I believe it's so effective. The disturbing elements of their world are all the more shocking if you fall in love with the characters first and only experience the system they're in through their personal journeys, which is what I really wanted to replicate in the play.
The main way that my adaptation differs to the novel is that I show Kathy in her ‘present day’ in a way the book doesn’t. The character of Phillip was created for the play and all the scenes taking Kathy and Phillip through their present-day journeys were written for the adaptation. I felt there was an opportunity in this version to see what Kathy's day-to-day life was while she rediscovers her past, as well as understanding the reality of the system she and the others were born into from their perspective.
‘Near-fi’ is an expression used to describe the kind of stories where the world depicted is totally recognisable, except for one particular element or shift; that’s exactly what this play is to me. It shows a world we all recognise, apart from this one major system in place, which still feels frighteningly believable. As a love story, I think it’s relatable to all of us. These are young characters, coming of age and navigating all the elements of that journey. But when we stand back, we realise that these characters are actually part of a subclass that the rest of society has chosen to dehumanise. What the book, and hopefully the play does, is make us see that the subclass these people have been forced into has made them appear different. But in reality, they are no different to you and me.
Finding ways to weave the memories together was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. It’s been like creating a mosaic where every small element builds to the bigger story. I also loved writing scenes for
the parts that we don’t see in the book, being able to really imagine how those moments in Kathy’s life actually played out. There’s something incredibly exciting in writing new scenes for characters you've come to love and know so well.
Working with the whole creative team has been a wonderful process from the start. Firstly, with Ish (Kazuo) who, as I mentioned, has been incredibly supportive and generous throughout and was at the opening night, which was wonderful. Chris Hayden, the director, really gave me the freedom to write the play, which sounds obvious but it’s not always the case that you're really given the room to sit with the work and approach it in your own way. He really supported me taking that space so I could find my way through the first draft, which is just what I needed for an adaptation like this. His guidance from that first draft on to production was also invaluable. The creative team involved have all brought so much to the production, taking it above and beyond my initial vision with such poignance and in ways that have really enhanced the storytelling.
I think a stand out moment for me was when I first heard the song Never Let Me Go written by Eamonn O’Dwyer [an original title track written for the play]. I was so moved hearing Marisha Wallace’s vocal, which seemed to perfectly encapsulate both the pain and hope in the play. I also can’t go without mentioning the cast, who have been utterly exceptional. They’re a wonderful company who care for and support one another deeply, which makes a huge difference in a production like this.
Seeing these characters come to life with such talent has been incredibly rewarding. It really has been a dream team. n
Never Let Me Go is at Bristol Old Vic from 5-23 November; for tickets and more information, visit bristololdvic.org.uk. All show production images were taken by Hugo Glendinning.
This month, our friends at Gloucester Road Books share non‐fiction they’re particularly excited about...
Anote from the team: “Our primary aim is that the shop be a fascinating place to explore. We have a significant focus on titles published by small independent presses. There are lots of really brilliant small publishers putting out incredibly exciting books, and we want to help get these out into the world.” Visit the website for more details on book launches, talks and other events at the shop. gloucesterroadbooks.co.uk; @gloucester_rd_books; 184 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, BS7 8NU.
Open Monday and Tuesday 9.30am-5pm; Wednesday to Saturday 9.30am-6pm
The Starling: A Biography, by Stephen Moss, Vintage, out now
The latest edition in Stephen Moss’ Bird Biography series looks at the life and behaviour of the common starling. Highly readable and informative, Moss takes in the starling through illustrations, anecdotes, and historical records, as well as its current state within agriculture and the climate crisis. Moss also writes on the representation of the starling in culture, where the astounding performance of its murmurations has inspired figures such as Mozart and Shakespeare.
Place of Tides by James Rebanks, Penguin Books, out now
From the bestselling author of The Shepard’s Life comes an enigmatic true story of a remote Norwegian island and a curious friendship
James Rebanks developed with a woman who lived and worked on its tiny, rocky shores. Along with her apprentice, the woman cared for the wild Eider ducks, reviving a small colony and still participating in the age-old trade of collecting their down for a dwindling industry.
Rebanks became fascinated by these women and offers a beautiful and elliptical account of this otherwordly place at the edge of the Arctic.
Led By Donkeys by Led By Donkeys, Thames and Hudson, out now Driven by the desire to expose politicians’ lies and hypocrisies, the four political activists making up the group Led By Donkeys have gathered a huge following for the balance of humour and poignancy in their public stunts. From painting the road outside the Russian Embassy in Ukrainian blue and yellow to rebranding disgraced
Tory Peer Michelle Mone’s yacht with ‘Pandemic Profiteer’, this book is a compelling account of the lengths the group has gone to in the name of justice and accountability.
Our City: Community Activism in Bristol, edited by Suzanne Audrey, Tangent Books, out now
A powerful collection of essays on the good fight of activists looking to protect and improve the quality of life for all of Bristol’s citizens. This book brings together the stories of community activists who fought on campaigns of city planning such as saving Bristol Zoo, promoting inclusion such as the use of public toilets, and a host of other issues such as saving Bristol’s urban trees.
The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer, Penguin Books, out 19 November
A new illustrated essay from Robin Wall Kimmerer, whose previous bestselling work Braiding Sweetgrass and Gathering Moss reached wide audiences with her beautiful weaving together of scientific and indigenous wisdom. This new essay explores the concept of the gift economy through examining the seasonal offerings of the serviceberry, and how it might provide a model for grace and reciprocity in what we receive from the wider natural world.
Rosanna Spence meets Mark Wilson of Rockaway Park (a subversive DIY cultural haven for people seeking art, music, food, nature, protest, and solace and support from a tight‐knit community in Temple Cloud) to talk punk, creating the park from scratch… and the story behind the Chapel of Unrest – Rockaway’s own place of worship unlike any other
It’s not often that mid-way through an interview, I wonder whether or not it’s a story I actually want to share with readers across the city. Not because this particular one isn’t worthwhile. Far from it. Instead it’s because as I’m listening to Mark Wilson, the man behind Rockaway Park, tell me about his punk roots and how the community in this pocket of Temple Cloud has grown organically from the cracks in society, flourishing in the face of adversity, I’m steadily realising how special this place is. That no matter what you might assume or preconceive about Rockaway Park, it’ll manage to surprise you. How there’s nowhere else quite like it in the UK. How I’d rather to keep all it for myself (and I’m not the first journalist to feel this way). But, we’re in the business of sharing good stories here, and life’s too short to be selfish. So if spreading the word about what’s happening over at Rockaway ruins some people’s best kept secret, then apologies in advance.
It’s hard to describe exactly what Rockaway Park is. I’d first heard about it from friends who flocked there for the delicious Sunday roasts. It’s part-repurposed scrap wonderland, part-art exhibition, part-event space, part-work space, part-protest, part-place of worship, partcommunity hub, part-educational centre, part-gig venue, part-Airbnb, part-café, part- ‘this feels like home’, part- whatever you want to be. And that’s kind of the point; it’s un-boxable, forever dodging the label maker – but rather than hiding in the shadows it lingers in the glittering sun that shines through the trees and reflects off the actual rocks that support this community (hence the name) determined to lead with a ‘can do’, hopeful attitude of approaching things differently, and helping others be able to find a more joyful perspective in life in the face of uncertainty and division.
All the young punks
“I left school in 1977, in the year of punk rock, and I thought: ‘I want to be a f*cking punk, I want to change the world’,” Mark tells me. “I formed a band [anarcho-punk project The Mob] and put out records, and did it all ourselves. I really firmly believed in the DIY approach, more so than the music. I really liked the idea that there was this movement for positive change that was done by the people, and wasn't done by anybody higher up. It rang every bell with me straight away. So, I've spent most of my life ‘doing it myself’.”
Mark left home fairly early and went off squatting in London, forming housing co-operatives, putting on free festivals and tours, “always pushing the boundaries, always trying to find somewhere to live, solving housing situations perpetually – that’s still ongoing – and always looking in the margins for answers; looking at where the cracks are that we can work in.” This desire to exist as far from mainstream culture as possible saw his ventures take him even further away, spending weekends travelling back and forth from peace convoy camps.
“I ended up making a half-decent record [with The Mob] that sold a few copies, and then, in typical style, shooting myself in the foot, I went and lived in the woods in a tepee – and a caravan – and having nothing to do with the music world for another 20-odd years. I had kids, and wanted to look after them, so we started buying bits of land and moving onto them in unofficial camps.”
This way of living continued for years – punctuated with battles against the council about the camps – and meanwhile Mark was putting his indepth knowledge about Transit vans to use, renting various spaces across Bristol to break them down into parts. A self-confessed workaholic, his dismantling business became huge, and rental costs were accumulating until someone told him about a yard for sale in Temple Cloud.
“So, I came here, I saw some squirrels jumping around in the trees, and I thought, ‘This space is entirely inappropriate. It's miles from the M4, it's miles from the M5, it's miles from my customer base. Let's buy it!’ I said yes there and then.”
Moving his life onto the yard was the turning point. He didn’t know it yet, but Rockaway Park was waiting patiently underground to spring up through the last burning embers of his breakers business, through the ashes of more council battles, through huge financial struggles… ignited by the spark of his return to music.
“It was my 50th birthday, and my partner at the time suggested reforming the band, she said it had meant quite a lot to people at the time, and she thought I undervalued it. It had never occurred to me in the intervening 28-or-so years. I didn’t realise we’d inspired a lot of people.”
Once The Mob started playing music again, tours and gigs in America beckoned. It was here than Mark came across alternative, artistic communities like Slab City in the Californian desert, “I saw people doing whatever they wanted and making huge, beautiful sculptural wonderlands. I was smitten.”
Despite life outside of the band feeling like “a disaster”, it was Mark’s turn to feel inspired the next time he returned home from across the pond. “I thought we could try and turn the yard into some sort of artistic creative space. I thought that would be far more in keeping with what I actually care about, and have alternative housing and all these other things. I’ve always worked so hard because I knew I had to put a roof over the kids heads, and there was no one to ever bail me out – that’s where I developed a mad work ethic.”
Anyone rocking up to the site is greeted by an old fairground elephant riding atop of what looks like an old warhead. He chuckles and says: “Watch this,” tapping his smartphone. Suddenly there’s a sparkling fountain erupting from Nelly, pouring into the natural pond below. A pond that’s also surrounded by sculptures from artists including the anonymous @gettinguptostuff. It’s a taste of what’s to come from the rest of Rockaway, as we head past more scrap that’s been transformed into spectacular structures – from waltzers to windmills – and into the caravan, and former office, behind the stage in the Main Shed, where we sit for our chat. Mark’s huge, blocky mobile phones from the late 80s and 90s sit on the side, relics of past deals and networking.
Creating Rockaway Park has become an unending project for him and those who share this space. As Mark and I are talking there’s hammering, repairing, people amending and improving the space around us – that’s because Rockaway never sits still.
“We never stop making more, or creating more, or making it better, or beautifying it, or adding solar panels, or are just constantly trying to make it a sort of real example of what's possible, especially in this day and age when everything feels so bad on every level. You want to show some glimmer of hope, you know, people can say, ‘There’s this guy doing this thing…’ People send others here all the time, especially who may be in distress, they don't know what to do, or they're down, they're stuck in
some position, and people say, ‘Mark’s got a way of seeing his way through sh*t’. I’ve used adversity like a propellant in a fire.”
Fuelled by this fire, Rockaway Park is now home to various venues and spaces, accommodation, workshops and studios, a community forest garden, rehearsal studio, café, therapy room, a School of Curiosity, wellbeing services, and… its very own place of worship.
Losing my religion
So, about that church, then. Or rather, the Chapel of Unrest, as it’s known. Mark had bought a huge, curved structure in 2018 and it was put up with no real intention or plan. It was only when some Airbnb guests on site asked if they could get married in there that the crew started to refer to the open structure as ‘the church’.
“The council wanted business rates from the building, but the only thing that had ever happened in there was one wedding, so I said it’s a church. The council responded that you can’t have a church without a recognised religion. What makes that then? A quick Google, and it takes 60,000 people apparently. That’s not the truth, of course, but it was the first answer that came up, so my immediate thought was: ‘If I can get 60,000 on board, they could pay a tenner to join (£20 if you get a T-shirt), that could give us anywhere between £600,000 and £1.2million. Then we can build a church’.
All that went through my head in about 10 seconds, then I started thinking how I know a lot of talented people who can make some beautiful objects to adorn said church, and we can use all this money that we've raised to build a monument to our people, to people who give a sh*t, to artists, weirdos, nutters, visionaries, the left-of-left-of-centre, people who actually care about the world, a place to celebrate diversity.”
Mark may have shared his idea too soon, because he was immediately batting away countless £10 notes from enthusiastic people keen to be part of it. He wasn’t ready.
But his daughter lent him a book on science and belief, “and it made perfect sense. People need places to come together and sing. They need places to experience communal joy. They need places where they can commune with nature. They need places of pilgrimage. And the more I read this book, my church fits all these things much better than any church I’ve ever been in.”
People interested in alternative ways of living were stopping in at Rockaway Park on trips between places such as Dial House in Epping Forest (known for its anarcho-punk roots since the ‘60s) and Glastonbury.
A punk pilgrimage, perhaps? During the pandemic, the church’s open sides also meant it became a safe place of sanctuary for those wanting to meet and form radical thought. All signs seemed to be pointing to the church as a monument, a protest and, as it would eventually become, a fully registered place of worship.
On my visit there was just shy of 2,500 members of the Chapel of Unrest’s ‘congregation of agitation’, drawn to a place they feel they belong Each has their own skillset and story to tell. “If you bring a lot of people together in some sort of common goal, whatever that may be and whatever it means to them, you can go further. You can feel hopeless on your own, can’t you? You're much better with a group of people. Not that we meet regularly as a group or anything. In fact, the only rule is that you’ve got to be kind and respectful to each other.”
The one word that seems to empower this place is ‘can’. You’re enveloped in a ‘can-do’ philosophy, and Mark will find a way to wriggle around every instance of ‘cannot’. It’s even inferred on the bottom signature of the team’s emails, in the mantra: ‘Would those who say it can't be done, please stand clear of those doing it’.
“There’s usually a solution to something if you look hard enough for it,” he says. “Or if you work hard for yourself and what you care about, you will be rewarded eventually… I like to think so anyway. I may be wrong, but I like to live in hope rather than in frustration that you can’t do anything. I believe you can.” n
For information about the site and upcoming events, visit the main website rockawaypark.co.uk, where you can also sign up to the team’s
The RWA has invited a select group of artists to create over 300 postcards exclusively for this auction. Each postcard is signed on the back, so as not to give the game away. Art enthusiasts might be able to guess the work of certain well-known artists, but the RWA doesn’t reveal the artist until after the auction ends. Bid on the works, starting at £40, that capture your interest. The postcards are on display for free in the Youngwood Room, but bidding began online from 25 October.
rwa.org.uk; secretpostcard.co.uk; Queen’s Road, BS8 1PX
‘Rinko Kawauchi: At the edge of the everyday world’ at Arnolfini, Until 9 February 2025
Japanese photographer Rinko Kawauchi’s poetic images find beauty in the ordinary moments of everyday life. Presented in collaboration with Bristol Photo Festival, her first major UK exhibition since 2006 centres around moving between explorations of the natural world’s fragile beauty to the gentle rhythm of domestic scenes, capturing the connections and continuity of life on this ‘planet we call home’.
arnolfini.org.uk; 16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA Image: Untitled. From the series M/E, 2020 © Rinko Kawauchi
Clifton Arts Autumn Fair 23-30 November
Over 300 works by more than 60 artists will be available to be viewed and bought at Clifton Arts Autumn Fair from Saturday 23 until Saturday 30 November at The Victoria Methodist Church, Whiteladies Road, Clifton, which lends its beautiful architecture to the showcase of this excellent exhibition. Clifton Arts Club, the oldest and largest arts club in the country, has members who are professional, and semi-professional who exhibit internationally, nationally and locally. The range of subjects, media and styles means there is something for everyone to enjoy. Entry is free, and affordable prices start from £35. This fair could just provide the gifts you are looking for this Christmas. The Victoria Methodist Church, Whiteladies Road, Clifton, BS8 1NU
Image by Fiona Hallworth
An unmissable exhibition at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery showcasing 100 stunning images that capture fascinating animal behaviour. Tickets from £5 to £10. Buy now at bristolmuseums.org.uk
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Road, BS8 1RL
Rainmaker Gallery’s Winter Showcase, 19 November until 31 January
Rainmaker Gallery’s Winter Showcase brings together the work of several Indigenous artists, including patterned canvases by Laguna Pueblo painter Marla Allison, bold Pacific Northwest Coast serigraphs by Tlingit artist Preston Singletary, modernist monochrome masterworks by Mvskoke painter Rick Grimster, and more. The gallery also carries a unique collection of Native American jewellery, sculpture and traditional Pendleton blankets.
rainmakerart.co.uk; 140 Whiteladies Road, BS8 2RS Image: I Gave you a Million Clouds, acrylic on canvas by Marla Allison
Barbara Weir & Cara Shields at Coe Gallery, 5–22 November
Coe Gallery invites you to celebrate the late great Utopian artist Barbara Weir and celebrated Wiradjuri artist Cara Shields. In this complementary exhibition, Weir’s beautiful work Grass Seed Dreaming will be displayed next to Wiradjuri artist Cara Shields’ energetic and mesmerising Scar Trees Series. This exhibition invites you to look deeper into the works and to experience an element of where both artists are from through their own eyes.
coegallery.com; The Vestibules, City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR. (Left: Barbara Weir Grass Seed Dreaming; right, Cara Shields Scar Tree Country)
North Bristol Arts Trail 23-24 November
The North Bristol Arts Trail (NBA) returns this November with 110 artists and makers opening 50 homes and studios to welcome you in. There will be original paintings, prints, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, glassware and more, offered with a warm welcome, inc luding refreshments and facilities along your route. The trail stretches over Redland, Bishopston, Henleaze, St Andrews, Ashley and Horfield; find the NBA map online or pick up a physical copy in shops, cafes and galleries in the area. northbristolarts.org.uk
Image: Royal Poppies by Nancy Chambers
From Chris Yeo, Valuer at Clevedon Salerooms and regular expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow
Ireally hate to remind you, but Christmas is just around the corner. If you’re scrambling around for inspiration as to what to buy the significant other in your life (or possibly a Christmas gift for yourself), might I suggest a vintage wristwatch?
Rolex is a name with which we are all familiar, and is the ‘go to’ brand for anyone looking for an instant hit of glamour around their wrist. After all, what other watch has been worn by astronauts, athletes, explorers and icons of the big screen?
Whether you are captivated by the robust charm of the Submariner, feeling tempted by the Datejust, or you’re more of an Explorer fan, each Rolex watch tells a story.
The 1950s through the ’70s are considered by many collectors to be the original golden age of Rolex watchmaking, with designs every bit every bit as emblematic of the jet age as the Concorde itself. It was during
this period that classics like the Rolex Submariner (released 1953), Rolex GMTMaster (1954), Rolex Explorer (1963) and Rolex Daytona (1963) were all introduced to the market.
Beyond their undeniable beauty, Rolex watches are renowned for their durability and reliability, boasting an ability to retain, and often appreciate in, value over time.
Over the years, a host of famous people have worn them. Rolex fans past and present include James Bond (Sean Connery sported a Rolex Submariner in Goldfinger) to our own King. In 2017, a rare Rolex watch that was owned by the late film star Paul Newman sold for almost £13.5m, making it the most expensive watch ever auctioned.
Fortunately, vintage Rolex can easily be found at auction for prices which won’t break the bank. Clevedon Salerooms recently sold a gentleman's Yacht-Master bracelet watch for a reassuringly expensive £3,800. ■
clevedonsalerooms.com; @chrisyeo_antiques (Instagram)
BY RON & CYNTHIA Beau Nash Antiques, Bath
s the holiday season approaches, transforming your home into a cozy retreat is essential for embracing the festive spirit. One of the most inviting focal points in any living space is the fireplace, and incorporating antique accessories can elevate its charm while ensuring warmth and comfort.
A standout piece for enhancing this space is the club fender. This beautifully crafted surround not only adds an air of sophistication but also serves multiple practical purposes. Protecting your floors from the heat and potential embers, a club fender acts as a safety barrier, especially important in homes with children or pets. Beyond its protective qualities, it provides convenient extra seating, making it the perfect spot for family and friends to gather around the fire, sharing stories and holiday cheer.
Complementing the club fender, well-made Victorian armchairs are essential for creating a warm atmosphere. Choose comfortable pieces with wide seats and colourful fabrics to create an inviting nook. Imagine curling up with a good book or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa in a plush, well-loved armchair, surrounded by the gentle glow of the fireplace.
Antique lighting fixtures further enhance the cozy ambiance of your home. Consider table lamps or wall sconces that reflect the warm hues, casting a soft glow across the room. These fixtures not only illuminate your space but also contribute to the overall charm, making your home feel like a storybook setting during the holiday season.
To complete the cozy vibe, layer your decor with soft throws and colourful cushions. The combination of a well-appointed club fender, comfortable seating, and beautiful antique lighting creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and togetherness.
This Christmas, embrace the warmth of antique accessories and transform your home into a cozy haven where cherished memories are made. Whether it’s around the fireplace or nestled in your favourite armchair, the spirit of the season will undoubtedly thrive.
beaunashbath.com; info@beaunashbath.com; 07535137808 @beaunashbath
As November arrives, bringing colder weather and darker nights, natural cravings for comfort foods and a roaring fire start to kick in. All of this is often enhanced by a comforting glass of wine. Here are my top recommendations for those seeking a drop of wine on a cold night, all available at The Great Wine Co. (GWC). greatwine.co.uk
The best-selling wine in the GWC shop, Les Mougeottes Chardonnay 2023 consistently provides great value for money. You’ll discover pineapple and peach aromas married with gentle, buttery notes. Dry, yet rounded on the palate, it has a texture, richness and finesse that gives it charm and completeness.
A bargain at £11.75.
Thelema is one of the heritage brands of winemaking in South Africa. Originally pioneered by Giles Webb in the late 1980s and now his son Thomas Webb, it produces some of the finest wines South Africa has to offer. The Thelema Merlot 2020 is a perfect combination of ripe red cherries and fresh plum, while also being full and rounded. An excellent overall balance, and so very drinkable.
£22
Bonarda is a relatively unheard-of grape variety in the UK, but it’s Argentina’s second most planted after malbec.
Trapiche Estacion 1883 Bonarda is packed full of big juicy plums and blackcurrants with a touch of oak, giving this a slightly spicy finish. Fantastic value at £14.95
This super-seasonal, cosy supper for two combines buttery polenta with earthy mushrooms, sweet chestnuts and luxuriously creamy Taleggio cheese. If you can't get your hands on Taleggio, Bel Paese, Gorgonzola or Brie all work well, too.
Ingredients (serves 2)
250g chestnut mushrooms, halved if large
2 tsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed
1 heaped tsp dried thyme
100g vacuum-packed cooked chestnuts, quartered 100ml whole milk
100g quick-cook polenta
30g butter
25g parmesan, grated
100g Taleggio cheese, cut into small cubes
Method
Heat a large frying pan with a lid over a high heat. Add the mushrooms and dry cook for around 3 minutes, stirring very occasionally, until the mushrooms have browned and started to release their liquid. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the oil, garlic, thyme, chestnuts and plenty of black pepper. Sauté for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until fragrant. Add 1 tbsp water, cover the pan, remove from the heat and set aside for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, put the milk in a saucepan with 400ml water and a good pinch of salt and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to low, pour in the polenta and stir well. Simmer for 5-8 minutes, stirring constantly until the polenta has thickened and is starting to come away from the sides of the pan. Add the butter, Parmesan and half the Taleggio and stir well until the cheeses have melted.
Divide the polenta between two warm shallow bowls or plates. Dot with the remaining Taleggio and top with the mushrooms, along with any juices left in the pan.
This year marks the 60th anniversary that Bristol Folk House has been at its Park Street location (and 124 years since its inception). To honour the independent adult education centre ‘s milestone, the team hosted a 60s-themed party. And to add to the celebrations, the café has undergone an ‘Interior Design Challenge’ makeover and returned to the decade it was built. Gone are the tables covered in print designs and multi-coloured chairs, and in their place you’ll find round tables complemented by retro-upholsted dining chairs, alongside newly-painted mustard and green walls and a striking teal carpet. In keeping with its green credentials, all the original chairs and tables have been sold to regular customers, and the majority of new furniture is second hand.
bristolfolkhouse.co.uk
This Christmas, enjoy a seat at the table with Mr Claus and his elves for a menu of Christmas treats, plus spectacular entertainment at The Granary. On 8 December from 9.30-11am join Santa and his elves for a spectacular Christmas breakfast filled with festive treats, entertainment, picture moments and much more. And the grand finale? Each child will receive a gift from Santa to take home and put under the Christmas tree. On arrival, Santa’s elves will lead you to your tables to start the morning festivities. Then, Santa will make his grand entrance led by a singalong from all… Breakfast with Santa is an experience for the whole family and suitable for children aged 2–10 years. To book tickets visit Eventbrite and search ‘Breakfast with Santa & Elves’. Tickets cost £24.95 per person and £19.95 for under-12s. 32 Welshback, BS1 4SB; granarybristol.com
Wednesday 20 November, 6pm-8pm. Foodmarket and Wine Shop, Ground Floor.
Join Harvey Nichols Bristol for a flavourful evening of discovery, sampling our fantastic foods and winning wines.
Enjoy live music as you indulge your way around our interactive demonstrations, expert-led masterclasses and tasting experiences.
Enjoy a welcome drink and canapés on arrival for £20 per person, with £10 redeemable on food and drink purchases made at the event.
Get into the festive spirit with the Christmas Dinner package, including a two-course meal for £55, with £10 redeemable on food and drink purchases made at the event. Plus, spin the wheel for a chance to win an incredible prize when you spend over £50.
To book: Simply scan the QR code to book online as well as see a line-up of other exciting events.
This year Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa is showcasing the best of festive flavours with a new selection of seasonal dining experiences and menus for overnight residents and day guests over the Christmas period. These include:
Festive afternoon tea
Throughout December, Lucknam Park will serve a special afternoon tea menu alongside its crackling log fires. Highlights include mince pie scones accompanied by brandy butter; turkey finger sandwiches filled with bacon and sage and onion stuffing; and maroon macarons infused with mulled wine. Prices from £48 per person.
Christmas Day lunch at Walled Garden Restaurant
The new Walled Garden Restaurant will be putting on a special festive feast on Christmas day. After canapés and cocktails upon arrival, guests will be treated to a traditional Christmas roast featuring a Roast Norfolk bronze turkey or salt-baked celeriac and wild mushroom Wellington. A special Lucknam Park
Christmas pudding with marmalade and Cointreau ice cream promises to be the showstopper. Prices from £195 per person.
New Year’s Day Gala at Walled Garden Restaurant
An unforgettable culinary celebration at the Walled Garden Restaurant to ring in the new year. Expect soy-cured salmon or game paté to start and sumptuous steaks or duck confit for the main course followed by servings of apple and cinnamon sundae, pear and chocolate mousse or blackberry crumble. A live singer will serenade guests with festive tunes and family favourites. Prices from £35 per person for two courses. lucknampark.co.uk
We visit a former organic farm on the outskirts of Bristol, which has morphed into Bristol Fungarium, a fungi powerhouse that’s been transforming peoples’ lives for the better thanks to its special tinctures cultivated from mushrooms, of which many owe their source to the fruits of local foraging adventures
Words by Rosanna Spence
We’re so used to seeing packets of mushrooms lined up on supermarket shelves, covered in cellophane and jostling like soft pale pebbles in plastic containers, sliced onto pizzas and stir fried into ribbons of juicy noodles that their superhero status can easily slip from our minds. Yet they are often likened to an alien presence on Earth, with mycelium root-like structures that create unfathomable networks throughout the natural world and unusual fruiting bodies existing beyond the bounds of plant or animal. Some fungus-like life forms have been found in rocks dating back 2.4 billion years; plants, on the other hand, first colonised earth around 500 million years ago by comparison.
Once you unearth the secrets fungi hold – especially regarding the huge range of physical and psychological benefits to humans the enigmatic compounds they contain can bring – a door opens to another universe entirely. That’s exactly what happened for Tom Baxter, the founder of Bristol Fungarium, when he attended a mushroom cultivation course in 2018. This wasn’t his first foray into fungi, having tried (largely unsuccessfully) to forage for them on trips that took him from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the steppes of Siberia.
But, as it turned out, he’d have much more fruitful forages right here at home on the outskirts of Bristol. In 2020, Tom transformed his existing initiative The Growing Up Project (which welcomed children from 9 months to 19 years into his organic farm just outside Bristol, encouraging them to reconnect with nature and learn what it means to work with the land) into Bristol Fungarium, producing the UK’s first organic-certified medicinal mushrooms.
Bristol Fungarium focuses on the finest quality, organic-certified UKbred native and exotic mushrooms; handling the whole process from spores to sterile lab work, liquid mycelium cultivation and finally the fruiting blocks – turning them into tinctures that can be taken orally to support all kinds of functions and processes within the body.
Tom’s team now crops over a ton of 18 strains of fungi each month, including maitake, shiitake and king oyster, as well as seven other strains of oyster mushroom, wine caps, lion’s mane, reishi, turkey tail and cordyceps.
Walking around Bristol Fungarium itself, which is tucked into the countryside between the city and Bristol Airport (and isn’t open to the public), the dedication needed to grow, cultivate and then extract from these incredible mushrooms is immediately palpable.
The amount of highly skilled scientific knowledge, theory, experimentation, and practical application – and necessity to do endless washing up, which no one seems to be able to escape no matter what industry you work in – is obviously such a commitment from the whole team that includes an in-house nutritionist and chief forager (over a third of the mushroom strains grown at Bristol Fungarium have been cloned from local specimens, including reishi from Barrow Gurney and a local strain of lion’s mane found within 500m of the farm), laboratory manager, grower, and head of extraction among others.
When asked if his team is the only one in the UK undertaking this complex process with functional fungi, from foraging, to cloning, cultivating and growing, then extracting the compounds and creating tinctures, Tom laughs and says yes... and that there’s a reason no one else is doing it (see above!).
Wandering past shelves of fluffy lion’s mane, amber-like ears of reishi, outstretched fingers of cordyceps and many, many others, we were also able to glimpse the intricate cloning processes taking place in the laboratories. It’s worth noting here that Henry Jephson leads the research and development of Bristol Fungarium’s commercial strains, managing its ever-growing specimen library and overseeing the continual process optimisation from agar – where the fungi cells are cloned and grown –to the fruiting bodies that then go into each tincture.
To say that Tom and his team’s work is fuelled by science is a huge understatement. Though mushrooms have been used functionally and medicinally in countries including Japan and China for millennia, fungi are not currently recognised as having medicinal value in UK legislation. This can lead to a lot of grey areas for producers, from marketing messages to beneficial claims, which is why Tom wants to be so thorough and exacting when it comes to testing for different compounds – and their quantities in each strain.
He explains that this includes analytical chemistry testing work in laboratories, both in university settings and beyond. If the DNA profile of particular strains being cultivated on site contains codes for (and spikes in levels of) specific compounds shown in studies to be useful for supporting cancer treatment, for example, or for positively impacting inflammatory responses from the nervous system, then those strains can be extracted and cross-bred with other mushrooms creating hybrids for tinctures that could potentially provide even more benefits.
The unique characteristics of the compounds in these mushrooms appear to have the ability to regulate certain systems in the human body. Tom notes that traditionally, when you take medicine, it’s often to block something, and not to regulate, whereas mushrooms are ‘adaptogenic’, rather than being ‘boosters’ or ‘fighters’.
If you’re curious as to how the tinctures are created, once harvested the mushrooms are then dried in an infrared dehydrator at exactly 34°C to maximise the quantity of bioactive compounds.
The team then extracts the powdered mushrooms into a very large volume of water (twice, once at 68°C, then again under pressure at 121°C); 95% of this water gets evaporated off to concentrate the extract. The mushrooms are then extracted into 96% organic ethanol, which is combined with the water to create the final product. Thousands of these bottles are filled each month, which are then sold online, at markets, Christmas fairs and especially at festivals throughout the summer months as people look increasingly to natural ways to improve their wellbeing and support their health.
So why are more and more people in the UK turning to natural supplements, like mushrooms, for psychical and psychological support?
Tom believes a major influence has been how long it takes for most people to access NHS services, which has resulted in many taking their health into their own hands and seeking support elsewhere.
He also recognises that post-lockdown, people have been spending more time outdoors re-engaging with nature, and seeing the value in it. With many communities around the country not now following structural belief systems, Tom notes that people may be using mushrooms to plug the need for reverence, opting to feel rooted to something taken from the Earth around them, which can also have a positive impact on their outlook and wellbeing.
This modern boom, however, brings with it a lot of baggage, and Tom warns that there are other products on the market that claim to contain functional fungi, but due to testing rules (requiring testing the presence of heavy metals only), may not have any of the specific active ingredients inside at all, especially if the raw components have been brought in and not cultivated by the companies. He also flags that though there’s been
more demand for functional mushrooms of late, it’s certainly nothing new in this country. During the plague, he says, ‘London tonic no. 1’ had 30% ganoderma (reishi) in it, with the tonic designed to help combat the deadly disease.
Talking to someone who’s now dedicated to exploring the alien-like existence of mushrooms and wonders they contain, we were keen to know which type is Tom’s favourite. It’s maitake (also known as hen-of-thewoods). Why? Because it’s the hardest to grow, of course. He clearly likes a challenge, but he says it’s also the best edible, as well as being interesting from an insulin perspective, and is great for people who menstruate to take during their luteal phase. He notes that maitake is not Bristol Fungarium’s highest seller – which the growing team must be pleased about – as this spot is taken by lion’s mane (making about 50% of sales), which many people buy to support their mental health.
Working as harmoniously as possible with nature, and prioritising a methodical, science-led approach means that Bristol Fungarium can stay true to its principles. But there are exciting things in the pipeline, too, including a research foraging trip to Barbados; more activity with Fortnum & Mason (Tom’s previously been part of a panel led by Kew Gardens at Fortnum & Mason’s Food & Drink Studio in London looking at fungi and wellbeing); joining forces with vets to be able to prescribe the tinctures to animals under a special licence; and working to create a UK native mushroom grow bag kit (to help combat the easily available, non-native grow kits that are selectively bred for high yields and fast growth, and can often lead to spores spreading in countries where they wouldn’t be naturally occurring).
Tom and his team may be at the forefront of functional fungi exploration, but they’re also keeping their mycelial roots firmly planted in the local flora and fauna, putting the needs of nature first. n
To find out more info about Bristol Fungarium, see its products and contact the team if you have any questions, visit bristolfungarium.com
A range of tinctures are available
Andrew Swift takes in a number of our city’s cemeteries to find moments of reflection and remembrance, natural hubs thriving with wildlife and, of course, interesting pockets of history
It was announced earlier this year that Arnos Vale Cemetery was the most popular free attraction in the South West, with over half a million visitors a year. To anyone who remembers it in the late 1990s when it was grimly derelict, the focus of a bitter campaign to maintain public access and prevent its redevelopment, such news may seem little short of incredible. That such a turnaround has been achieved in such a short time is a tribute to the trust that took it over after it was acquired by the council in 2003.
When the Bristol General Cemetery Company acquired part of the Arnos Vale estate in the 1830s, the area was already a celebrated beauty spot. The company’s aim was to provide a fitting resting place for the great and the good of Bristol, but it has achieved far more than that. Almost two centuries on, it has bequeathed us one of the city’s most diverse and important wildlife habitats, a place to escape the hubbub of the city, reconnect with nature and spend time in quiet reflection.
Arnos Vale may be Bristol’s most famous cemetery, but there are many others, large and small, that play an equally important role in providing green oases in the heart of the city.
The first large cemetery opened in Bristol after Arnos Vale was Greenbank in Easton, set up for the Parish of St Philip & St Jacob in 1871. It was provided with two main entrances, one leading to a drive with a ceremonial air, curving uphill past obelisks, urns and angels, the other opening onto a grand avenue of limes.
Both led to a pair of imposing but now long-disused mortuary chapels, overlooking the valley of the Coombe Brook. The brook has long been culverted and the view from the chapels today is of swathes of open grassland, where the grass grows long between the graves. When the paths were laid out they were given names like Cypress Avenue, Oak Tree Avenue and Cedar Avenue. The corresponding trees and shrubs –of which there were more than 4,000 – were planted alongside them, the idea being that it would make it easier for visitors to locate graves. As a consequence, Greenbank now has one of the finest collections of mature trees in the city, the haunt of crows, jays and green woodpeckers.
Greenbank is a place of great peace, where nature flourishes unhindered. On the east side, tracks lead through a woodland dell to where the arches of a disused railway viaduct – now home to Royate Hill nature reserve – stride across the valley. The cemetery also contains moving testimony of the human cost of conflict, with rows of war graves and an area dedicated to victims of the Bristol Blitz.
Despite its air of informality, the cemetery is well maintained, its memorials well cared for. The same cannot be said, however, for another cemetery, a short walk away on the slopes above Eastville Park. Ridgeway Park Cemetery was set up by a private company in 1887 and in its early years, as plots were snapped up by those drawn to this secluded woodland oasis, the site was carefully tended. Before long, however, as the cemetery
started to fill up, sale of plots dwindled, as did the company’s profits. In 1949, the company was wound up, and the cemetery was effectively abandoned until the council took it on four years later.
Approaching Ridgeway Park today, the area within the gates, around the site of the now demolished chapel, looks unexceptional, if a little unkempt. It is only when you start to explore the woodland tracks a little further on that things become interesting. As the dense woodland canopy closes in, the sombre beauty of dereliction surrounds you as you walk past tombstones uprooted by trees, peering down through once sylvan glades engulfed by thickets of bramble. Soon the tracks grow steeper, before they peter out and the brambles close in. Beyond, where vases of cut flowers once stood on neatly tended graves, nature’s reclamation seems total. Ridgeway Park is exceptional, not only as a wildlife habitat but also a stark reminder of how quickly nature can overwhelm our efforts to tame it.
On the other side of Bristol, however, in a far better known cemetery, there is another – albeit more constrained – case of nature reclaiming what has been abandoned.
The old churchyard of St Andrew’s, Clifton has, like Greenbank Cemetery, an avenue of limes leading through it. The limes at Clifton, however, are pleached, creating a cool green tunnel as you walk through from the busy streets to the north.
Railings line the avenue, with gates on either side leading into the abandoned churchyard. Squirrels rustle through fallen leaves, distant sounds of sirens and traffic die away. Alongside the paths ornate monuments stand stranded amid the rough grass. As you head south towards where the old church stood, the tombs are thicker on the ground.
Further on, they are crammed ever closer, the narrow gaps between them choked by vegetation and, eventually, by strands of bramble, making further exploration perilous.
The site of St Andrew’s – built in 1822, bombed in 1940, demolished in 1956, stands on the east side. The steps that led up to its entrance now lead to a wide lawn. South of it – near where the war memorial stands today – is the site of the church it replaced. Only the churchyard that surrounded it survives. There, hidden in a dark corner on the far side, with ivy encroaching, is a stone marking the resting place of Ann Yearsley, the once celebrated Bristol poet, who published a Poem on the Inhumanity of the Slave Trade in 1788.
Bristol has many other churchyards worth seeking out, precious natural habitats, havens of tranquility – and of remembrance – in the heart of the city. Some are tiny, like the Stranger’s Burial Ground in a former quarry on Clifton Hill or the Quaker Burial Ground by the roundabout below St Mary Redcliffe, complete with a medieval hermit’s cave. One of the smallest – and one of the most atmospheric – lies within the walls of the medieval city, down a narrow alley just below Horts on Broad Street. Dating from around 1400, it contains some of the earliest surviving gravestones in the city, their epitaphs still remarkably legible, along with an extraordinary survival – the elaborate tomb of Hugh Browne, died 1653, recumbent on a slab, with his wife on a lower slab and their five children kneeling below. n
Greenbank and Ridgeway Park Cemeteries and St Andrew’s Churchyard in Clifton, along with many others, have Friends’ groups which care for them and can provide further information and can be contacted via the internet. For more information about books that Andrew Swift has written, visit akemanpress.com
Auburn & Onyx is now offering male hair replacement systems. This is a non-surgical, affordable solution for men with hair loss. The bespoke hair systems are both fitted and styled within the salon by a highly-trained stylist. Specialists now operating from Auburn & Onyx’s treatment room include the multi-award winning Ciao Bella Aesthetics, offering natural cosmetic enhancements from highly experienced, safe and ethical Registered Nurses; Sara Duane, a specialist in permanent makeup, microblading, and medical tattooing, including scar correction and areola restoration; and the newest addition Jamie Lee, (owner of The Brow Company Bristol), who is a brow lamination, lash lift and lash extension specialist. auburnandonyx.co.uk
Bespoke property developer and architect StudioHIVE recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a colourful party at Bristol’s Royal West of England Academy (RWA). Family, colleagues, clients and contacts joined founder directors Jason and Natalie Collard at the event, which coincided with the RWA’s prestigious annual open exhibition. One of the artworks on show at the 171st exhibition was submitted by Ade Olaosebikan, an architect with StudioHIVE Architects (pictured second from left). The RWA’s exhibition space also hosted a “crash” of model rhinos for the evening. One of the group, Harry, was painted 10 years ago by a student at Worlebury School in Weston-super-Mare. This year the #ColourMyRhino2 competition is being extended, with StudioHIVE partnering with Wraxall C of E Primary School and Bristol’s Jamaica Street Studios to design a mother and baby rhino. Visit the website architecturebystudiohive.co.uk for more info on current projects.
Award-winning Bristol animation production studio A Productions is working on a new show, My Friend Maisy, starring the globally-loved characters from the bestselling Maisy books.
BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions and Trustbridge Entertainment are co-producing My Friend Maisy, with animation created by Bristol-based A Productions and London-based studio Karrot working together. This follows their successful collaboration on Love Monster for CBeebies.
The 2D animated series is based on the Maisy books, written and illustrated by Lucy Cousins, which have sold more than 46 million copies worldwide and won the hearts of young children and their families everywhere.
Katherine McQueen, joint managing director of A Productions, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be part of the team who will bring the much-loved Maisy character and friends to life through animation in this exciting new show. Whilst closely reflecting the illustrative style of Lucy Cousins’ wonderful books, the series will offer a unique opportunity for global TV audiences to join Maisy on her adventures in a new, captivating and imaginative way, where they will hear her talk, giggle and sing for the very first time.”
My Friend Maisy pushes the boundaries of classic preschool storytelling with stories that slip seamlessly between the real and surreal, like a child’s imagination. A Productions has worked on many notable shows, including JoJo and Gran Gran, produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions in association with A Productions for CBeebies; Love Monster for CBeebies; Sesame Street animated specials including Furry Friends Forever: Elmo gets a Puppy and The Monster at the End of This Story, both for Sesame Workshop. aproductions.co.uk
Here are four common mistakes to avoid amid market volatility.
1. Attempting to time your exit or entry
Whether you’re looking to capitalise on the latest trend or cut your losses amid a downturn, attempting to time the market can lead to missed opportunities and greater risk.
2. Focusing on short-term noise rather than long-term goals
In finance, “noise” refers to short-term market fluctuations or random movements that don’t reflect the underlying fundamentals or long-term trends.
While it may be tempting to follow generalised, “expert” advice on these short-term changes, history and research suggest that such advice is not always reliable.
3. Keeping a concentrated portfolio
By diversifying your investments, rather than concentrating them, you lower your exposure to the fluctuations of any single market.
This approach also allows you to tap into multiple markets, enhancing your ability to benefit from diverse opportunities, and strengthening your resilience to volatility.
4. Listening to your biases rather than professional advice
Investor biases are cognitive or emotional tendencies that can affect your decision-making and lead to poor financial choices.
A financial planner can provide a more experienced perspective to help you navigate financial decisions.
To speak to a financial planner, get in touch.
We are Independent Financial Advisers who specialise in retirement planning and estate planning Get in touch
If you would like a review of your pensions and investments and whether you are on track to achieve your financial goals, please contact us for a free consultation.
Immersive Arts, a programme that supports artists to make and share immersive work, has opened applications for its first round of funding, closing 2 December.
Grants of £5,000, £20,000 and £50,000 are available as part of the three-year project, with the aim of supporting more than 200 artists to explore the possibilities of immersive technology for their creative practice.
The consortium delivering the Immersive Arts project is led by UWE Bristol, with the lead hub at Pervasive Media Studio in Bristol, and Watershed as Executive Producer.
Working in close partnership with the University of Bristol and cultural organisations in Belfast and Derry (Nerve Centre), Cardiff (Wales Millennium Centre) and Glasgow (Cryptic), as well as Crossover Labs, Unlimited, XR Diversity Initiative and the Innovate UK Immersive Tech Network, Immersive Arts will generate a rich programme of inclusive and accessible opportunities, breaking down the barriers for artists of all backgrounds to engage with immersive tools.
Artists will have the opportunity to access training, mentoring, specialist facilities and vital funds, with a total of £3.6 million in grant funding available between 2024 and 2027 to get ideas off the ground and further develop existing projects.
For more information and to apply, visit immersivearts.uk
Tockington Manor School has selected literacy champion Teach Us Too as its charity for the next academic year. Founded by young author, Jonathan Bryan in 2018, Teach Us Too promotes the right for all children, regardless of their label or diagnosis, to be taught to read and write in school.
“I can’t think of a more fitting cause for us to get behind,” says Headmaster Stephen Symonds. “Having met Jonathan, I am just astounded by exactly how much he has been able to achieve. He’s a shining example of the determination we want to see in our children.”
Jonathan (pictured above with his mum Chantal) was born with cerebral palsy, which left him unable to speak and was labelled as having Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD). At the age of seven, his mum took him out of his special school for a few hours a day to concentrate on teaching him to read and write by looking at letters and words stuck on a perspex board held in front of him. When he was nine, Jonathan started looking at letters and spelling out what he wanted to communicate with astounding results.
Jonathan, now 18, will visit the Independent Prep School in Bristol later this term and there are other activities lined up for the charity to share its message.
Tockington will specifically be fundraising for the charity’s research project, ‘Transformational Tales’, which will collect stories about the impact of literacy on the lives of children with complex needs. Fundraising involves various activities including a triathlon and other sports events, bake sales, mufti days and further initiatives.
tockingtonmanorschool.com
Subscribe to receive The Bristol Magazine’s Weekend Edition newsletter every Friday and never miss out on fantastic extra content...
The super-cosy organic cotton changing robe is a must-have for any beach day. For seasoned surfers and swimmers, a changing robe is staple coastal kit. Making awkward changing moments a thing of the past and helping you quickly get warm and dry, the best-selling Vean is super-soft, hooded and generously sized.
Shop now at finisterre.com
What is quince?
A knobbly, fragrant relative of the pear, golden-yellow in colour and developing a pretty orange blush when ripe.
When is it in season?
From now until around the end of December.
What does quince taste like?
In its raw state, quince is almost inedible – rock hard, and bitter. But, once cooked, the mellow citrus/honey-ish flavours totally belie first impressions.
Added bonus!
It’s rich in antioxidants, potassium, iron, vitamin C and fibre.
How can I use quince?
curated by Daniel McCabe
Calling All Horse Girls celebrates equine culture, art, fashion and lifestyle. It’s aimed a those who were, still are or have always wanted to be ‘horse girls’ and who have had to step away for school, career, family life and other things. Contributors who have answered the call to provide their own horse girl perspectives include renowned writers, artists, designers, illustrators and photographers from around the world. The vibe feels North American, but it’s published in Istanbul. It’s serious, informative and charmingly silly in places – the latest volume (No. 7), for example, comes with a set of horse poo stickers. Shop at store.magalleria.co.uk MAGAZINE KIOSK
Despite it’s initially off-putting qualities, quince is extremely versatile, uniquely tasty and well worth making full use of during its short season. Braise with lamb in a casserole, or roast alongside pork or duck. Stew slowly with sugar and lemon and add to apple pie, bread and butter pudding, porridge or custard. Poach in sweet white wine and serve alongside a cheese board. Replace sloe berries with quince to make your own quince gin or quince vodka (start now, and it’ll be ready to drink just in time for Christmas!). Quince also contains high levels of pectin, a naturally-occurring thickener that sets and stabilises fruit when heated with sugar, making it ideal for chutneys, jams, marmalade – or Membrillo, Spain's traditional solid preserve made from simmered, sweetened quince purée that's been allowed to set.
– scan the code
Bristol’s no stranger to the odd rave, with huge day and night party scenes attracting revellers across all demographics. But what if you’re seeking a little more balance in life? Well, there’s a group of people led by Jo Bryan‐Smith and Edward Jenkins called Ravers2Runners who have been tearing up the scene with pre‐party runs, as well as holding regular city runs. We caught up with Jo to find out more about the people who love pounding pavements as much as they love pounding beats…
What’s Ravers2Runners all about then?
It is exactly what it says on the tin. Ravers2Runners wants to help millions of ravers across the world become healthier and happier through exercise. It’s a community that derived from my own personal journey with raving and then into running. I used to rave a lot in my 20s, and didn’t exercise very much. My main form of exercise was on the dancefloor. At the end of 2016 and start of 2017 I was burning the candle at both ends with a high stress job and going out a lot – plus I’m asthmatic. I got the flu, which turned into severe bacterial pneumonia. I was in hospital for about two weeks, and it took about 18 months to recover from. I was faced with my own mortality and knew I wasn’t invincible; I had to make a big lifestyle shift.
When did you start running?
My partner and I moved to New Zealand, and it was during that time I got into running, and my friend – who was injured – said we should sign up to a triathlon to help us get fit. Her injury meant she would cycle, and I would run, even though I hated it then because I’d tried it before and didn’t take to it, plus I felt I couldn’t breathe. But I trusted the process and had the support of people around me, then I ran my first half marathon, which I thought would never be possible. I thought, if I’m capable of doing this, I can do anything, it was a whole awakening.
How did the running group form back in Bristol?
It happened very quickly and organically, with a couple of friends who wanted to get back into running. I had a bit of an internal monologue of my own journey, and I thought, though my story is unique, it’s not uncommon for people to have raved a lot and then get into running. It’s a classic raver-to-runner situation. So that’s how it was born, and then it just grew from there. It was noticeable that it was a space where a lot of
people felt they belonged. Being in the clubbing scene can be a big part of your identity, so when you transition out of that, you can feel like you’re losing your community. I didn’t really feel like I belonged in any other running club.
Tell us about the events you’ve been running at?
We’ve held runs at festivals including Glastonbury (where we had about 450 runners!), Boomtown, Forwards, Latitude, Love Trails, Amsterdam Dance Event and Love Saves The Day. It’s been amazing, there’s a real appetite for this balanced lifestyle where you can look after yourself but have fun and party too. The event organisers have been loving it. We went from two festival runs last year to at least seven this year, so we can only see it growing. It’s so fun to run in these beautiful, cool spaces that have been created, and it helps you get your bearings of the festival site and meet new people too. We tend to start the festival with a run, as not as many people would want to run on a Sunday morning at Glastonbury compared to a Thursday morning!
What sort of feedback have you been getting so far?
Predominantly people are really positive and responsive. Everyone’s buzzing afterwards. When we did the really big run at Glastonbury, which is a big flagship event in partnership with Greenpeace (we try to partner with a charity at every event run), people were loving it, cheering everybody on and clapping. But if you don’t get it, you don’t get it. And if you’re into it then that’s great, you’re not hurting anybody and we’re all having a good time. We’re already branching out, with Ravers2Runners groups launching in other cities, including Wokingham and Barcelona –people are interested in becoming hosts as far away as Canada and Amsterdam too.
What do you do outside of Ravers2Runners?
When I first moved back to Bristol I was in project management work at a digital agency, but I already had the idea that I wanted to be a personal trainer, so I decided quite quickly to jump in and do that – now JBS Fitness in Kingswood – and I haven’t looked back since. I run a '30Minute Non-Stop' beginner’s running course too, and on our final run we link up with Ravers2Runners. It’s for people who are looking to reboot their running, or are starting for the first time.
How can people get running with Ravers2Runners?
There’s a WhatsApp community chat that people can join to find out how to get involved. We’ve been regularly meeting on Wednesday evenings at The Red Church in St George, but we’ll likely move to the centre of town soon as it’s flatter and better lit there in the evenings. And in January we’ll also be launching a ‘Dry Run’, which will see people run around the city to five independent bars and clubs, and each venue’s worth a certain amount of points. But there’s no map, so you have to navigate between as many of the locations as you can within an hour, and points are deducted for every minute you’re late back to the meeting point. We’ll sample a non-alcoholic or low-ABV drink in each place (we’ve been working with an independent local brewery on our very own drink too, which will be available there). It helps to promote these drinks in public spaces where people can still socialise and not feel pressured to drink alcohol. It’s also a fundraiser for local homelessness charity Caring in Bristol. n
For more information and to join the mailing list, visit ravers2runners.com, email hello@ravers2runners.com and follow @ravers2runners on Instagram; for personal training, visit jbsfitness.co.uk and follow @joanna_get_fit on Instagram
For those of you who read these adverts, every successful patient you see me take a photo with starts MBST not knowing the outcome that lies ahead.
Healing from MBST begins by applying safe, low level EM energy (the same used in MRI but weaker) to the damaged inflamed cells of the injured area.
These cells then incubate this energy and transform from inflamed, imbalanced dying cells to healthy cells…following on from this, more cells are then produced giving the regenerative effects of this therapy, which leads to tissue change, and a positive outcome for the patients.
If you’re suffering pain and don’t have an answer it’s highly likely MBST can help you.
We successfully treat:
I’ve had the pleasure of looking after Sheila for several years now.
I initially used MBST in early 2020 to help her with a painful arthritic neck which wasn’t responding to hands on treatment. The results here were great and gave her confidence in the healing capabilities of the treatment.
Since then MBST has helped her with her painful wrists and knees. Both as a result of inflammation in the car tilage due to degenerative changes/wear and tear. Again both areas improved and are still pain free.
More recently I’ve helped her with a fractured right arm (humerus). The specialist said she’d never be able move her arm above 90 degrees or reach her bra strap again… however 5 months af ter doing an MBST bone treatment she can reach her bra strap and can get her hand comfortably over her head.
James Scrimshaw BSc DC
Calling all nature lovers! Get ready to embark on an epic visual journey as the celebrated Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition has rolled into town
The visually stunning showcase Wildlife Photographer of the Year is celebrating its 60th year, and has been a big deal since it kicked off back in 1965, promoting top-notch photography talent from around the globe. Fast forward to today, and its popularity refuses to wane; the 60th instalment alone received a whopping 59,228 entries from 117 countries. The exhibition is expected to charm well over a million visitors as it embarks on its international tour, which includes Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, where it is currently on display. There’s plenty of time to catch it, too, as the exhibition will be there until 27 April 2025.
So, what can you expect? Imagine stunning snapshots that reveal the amazing behaviours of animals, from the fierce to the playful, all set against the backdrop of our planet’s breath-taking diversity. Using photography's unique emotive power to engage and inspire audiences, the images shine a light on stories and species around the world and encourage a future of advocating for the planet.
Chair of the judging panel, Kathy Moran, said: “In this selection you see species diversity, a range of behaviour and conservation issues. These images represent the evolution of the competition through the years, from pure natural history to photography that fully embraces
representation of the natural world – the beauty and the challenges. It is a powerful selection with which to kickstart a milestone anniversary.”
“As we celebrate 60 years of Wildlife Photographer of the Year, we also celebrate the generations of visitors who have been inspired by the beauty and majesty of its images, and the millions of connections made with nature,” adds Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum, Philip Walker, Head of Culture for Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, said: “We’re excited to welcome a brand new set of stunning images... Visitors to Bristol’s exhibition look forward to delving into the natural world, contemplating its beauty, ferocity and fragility alongside our extensive natural history collections.”
Also, if you’re an aspiring photographer, here’s a useful titbit: the 61st competition is already open for entries, wrapping up on December 5, 2024. Who knows? Your shot could be next in line for the spotlight… n
Dates and times of the exhibition at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery: On until 27 April 2025, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm. Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London. Visit the Bristol display at Queens Road, Clifton, BS8 1RL; bristolmuseums.org.uk/wpy
The power to make gifts as an Attorney is a common question. It could be as simple as “Grandma has always given her grandchildren £100 each on their birthday. Can we keep doing that?” or it may involve more significant amounts, like paying school fees.
Guidance on this topic can be found on the ‘gifting gifts’ page on the GOV.UK website. One key point is that Attorneys must prioritise the Donor’s ability to cover care costs. Even if Grandma has a history of giving gifts, the Attorney might need to say, “I’m really sorry, but we have to put Grandma’s care fees first”. Legally, the Donor's needs come first.
For larger gifts, Attorneys often need approval from the Court of Protection. This step helps protect the Attorney from legal issues whilst also protecting the Donor from potential financial abuse. Generally, Attorneys cannot give away the Donor’s property without express court approval, but there are exceptions:
Generally, gifts of the Donor’s property are NOT permitted by Attorneys without express authority from the Court of Protection. However, there are exceptions:
Attorneys can make the following gifts:
1. To a family member, friend or acquaintance on a customary event (like a birthday, or wedding for example)
2. A charity
Attorneys cannot use gifts to reduce the Donor’s assets to avoid paying care costs. It’s a complex area without a one-size-fitsall solution. Each decision must be based on the specific circumstances, ensuring it serves the Donor’s best interests. Attorneys are legally accountable for all decisions and transactions they make, whether about gifting, managing investments, or funding care fees.
We specialise in providing independent, professional financial and legal advice for those in later life, as well as their families, representatives, and Attorneys. Please get in touch if you need any help.
Call 0117 3636 212 or email office@haroldstephens.co.uk
We record regular video updates on a range of later life financial topics - search ‘Harold Stephens IFA’ on YouTube.
50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, Bristol BS9 3DZ. Find out more at www.haroldstephens.co.uk
RECEIVE THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE BY POST AND NEVER MISS OUT
We deliver to over 15,000 addresses every month, and there’s plenty of pick up points around town. But if you live outside our distribution area or would like us to send a copy to friends or family, we offer a magazine mailing service. Make sure you never miss an issue... all 12 issues from just £33*
SUBSCRIPTIONS FROM JUST £33* SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT www.thebristolmag.co.uk/subscribe or call: 0117 974 2800
Are you feeling as snug as a bug in a rug at home right now? If the answer’s “not yet!” you’re about to be. Dim the lights, boil the kettle, pop your slippers on, sink into your armchair and hunker down, because you’re about to embark on a masterclass of all things cosy...
Images: top, Arlo & Jacob Hartfield Snuggler (arloandjacob.com); middle, Ringo Storage Drum (sofa.com); bottom, Park Furnishers Casa Halley Fabric Corner Sofa (parkfurnishers.co.uk)
Our city has officially fallen under the enchanting spell of autumn, a season with still crisp air, golden-hued sunlight filtering through misty mornings and lingering, blushing sunsets. It’s the ideal time of year to consider crafting a snug retreat, a haven to immerse yourself in during the coming months. Whether you’re looking to embrace a touch of Scandi hygge in your life or simply seeking a cosy nook to finish your latest book while sipping a steaming cup of tea or coffee (or something stronger), now is the perfect opportunity to transform your space.
Bristol’s Victorian and Georgian architecture certainly has its charm, but let’s be honest – it can get pretty chilly indoors as the temperatures drop. This season, however, offers the perfect backdrop for creating a cosy corner that invites warmth and relaxation. Regardless of whether your home is a modern flat or a period property, our tips can easily elevate your space into a comforting retreat.
Let’s start with the heart of the home: the hearth. If you’re fortunate enough to have a fireplace, give it some much-deserved love! Begin by cleaning it out and ensuring that it’s in good working order; having your chimney swept before winter arrives is always a wise move. Remember to consider Bristol’s Clean Air Act, and check the council’s and Defra’s guidance if you plan to burn anything at home.
No fireplace? No problem! There are numerous stylish electric or bioethanol options available that can replicate that lovely flickering glow without the hassle of a traditional fire.
Next up, let’s discuss lighting. The right illumination can set the perfect mood in your comfy corner. Swap out harsh overhead lights for soft, warm bulbs in your lamps – think amber or warm white tones that transform your space into a snug cocoon. Consider rechargeable lamps, too; these versatile pieces can be easily moved to whatever spot you choose to snuggle up in, be it by a window or nestled in a corner chair.
Let’s not overlook your windows. Installing thermal curtains is a fantastic way to keep the chill trying to sneak through drafty windows at bay while simultaneously adding warmth and texture to your room. Opt for rich colours like terracotta and plush fabrics that enhance the inviting and seasonal feel of your space.
Speaking of inviting atmospheres, shelving is another essential element. Incorporate stylish shelves that not only display your favourite books and cherished trinkets, but also feature built-in lights. This clever design choice allows you to showcase your treasures while casting a soft glow in your cosy corner. Plus, by switching up your display seasonally, you can keep the ambiance feeling fresh and exciting.
When it comes to seating, prioritise comfort and togetherness. A large corner sofa is perfect for accommodating the whole family (including any furry friends), making it easy to snuggle up together for a movie night. If you prefer a more intimate vibe, consider a love seat or a deep armchair as your perfect retreat. And don’t overlook the practical magic of a pouffe or ottoman with hidden storage – it’s ideal for tucking away extra blankets or cushions, keeping everything neat and within reach.
So, grab your favourite blankets, pour another hot drink and prepare to revel in those beautiful autumn evenings in your newly-created cosy corner. You’ll be all set for the comfiest winter season yet... n
Turn the page to discover our editor’s essential picks to kit out a snuggly corner of your very own...
Leave all stresses at the front door with these home accessories that will conjur cosy moments whatever the weather...
Laura Ashley Autumnal Haze 100ml Ceramic Reed Diffuser, £20
Capturing the essence of Autumn with fresh citrus notes, a warming spicy heart of nutmeg and clove srapped in enchanted woods of cedar and sandalwood. Combines two prints from the Laura Ashley archive, Roseborough and Broadoak. Available from next.co.uk
Orla Kiely Donegal Fabric Small Footstool, from Park Furnishers, check price online
An effortless way to introduce retro style to any space, the Orla Kiely Donegal small fabric footstool features slim splayed legs, a curved silhouette and classic button detailing to its fabric. The perfect combination of contemporary design and midcentury influence, its patterned sides bring fresh and fun appeal, whilst a foam top provides just the right amount of comfort.
Available from parkfurnishers.co.uk
Dunelm Teddy Electric Throw in Orange Umber, £40
Indulge in luxurious warmth and comfort with this exquisite heated throw, designed with a plush teddy bear texture for an irresistibly soft and cosy feel. Boasting adjustable heat settings, this machinewashable throw lets you tailor your warmth to perfection. dunelm.com
John Lewis
Montserrat Leaf Ceiling Light in Gold, £525
This statement, gold-effect pendant has a detailed leaf design that allows the light to shine through the gaps, creating a stunning light effect. Soft, glowing patterns are reflected onto your ceiling, so pair with a gentle, warm-toned bulb. johnlewis.com
Piglet in Bed Striped Wool Blend Knit Throw in Cedar Green, £119-£129
Reminiscent of handcrafted knitwear, this striped knitted throw features alternating weaves in different colour tones. Woven from a wool blend, the throw is super soft and versatile. johnlewis.com
Pooky, Aurora Rechargeable Lamp in Green, from £108
This table lamp is cordless! Which also means there is no tube running through the middle of it to house an electric cable, meaning it reaches a new level of elegance and translucence. There’s also a handy remote for super lazy days.
Loaf Hottie Hot Water Bottle, £40
Arlo & Jacob Scatter Lumbar Piped Cushion, in House Chenille Aqua, £55
These striking scatter cushions make a charming statement on their own or combine playfully together for maximum impact, plus your lower back will thank you. arloandjacob.com
John Lewis
Hemingway Round Lamp Table, £399
Every lamp needs a table. This formal lamp table brings a touch of class to any cosy corner, and comes with a single drawer and woven cane shelf for handy storage of books and snacks, keeping everything within arm’s reach. It’s made from melia oak solids and pippy oak lacquered. is hand-polished with wax lacquer and finished with antiqued brass knob handles. johnlewis.com
Sofa maker Loaf knows a thing or two about comfort, and every chilly sofa session needs a hot water bottle. This one’s made using materials including ever-so-soft alpaca wool. loaf.com
Farrow & Ball is bringing a new shopping concept to its Bristol store, opening early 2025, following the successful launch of its Battersea Studio in 2023. The Brisith paint and paper maker has worked with brand consultancy and retail agency Portas (founded by TV personality Mary Portas) to create the new showroom concept, which aims to help inspire and enable people to realise their home’s full potential. The Bristol Studio will encourage exploration and experimentation, with an interactive colour wall and dedicated mood board table. Every inch of the store has been designed to be tactile and inviting for customers. The new Studio concept is being rolled out nationwide across all Farrow & Ball’s showroom locations. farrowandball.com
Interior design studio Emily Rickard Design has opened a new design studio and store called Magasin at 74 Colston Street, selling unique art, homewares, rugs and decorative items from local artists and artisanal makers from around the world including New York, Paris, Sydney and Eswatini, Southern Africa.
With over 20 years of experience as an interior stylist and designer, Emily (pictured) and her team bring a unique shopping experience to the artistic quarter of Bristol, Colston Street, located at the top of Christmas Steps. Offering bespoke design services, rugs, wallpaper and tiles based around the ethos of ‘slow and mindful design’, the store is open Tues to Fri 10am-4pm and at other times by appointment.
(Photo credit: Oliver Perrott) emily-rickard.com; @magasin_bristol
Premium tile provider Quorn Stone has added the new Carrara Rosa Pink Marble Effect Tiles to its growing portfolio. The Carrara Rosa Pink is a beautiful marble effect porcelain tile, mimicking timeless Carrara marble with subtle blush pink veining from tile to tile. This elegant wall and floor tile option is available in a versatile array of both sizes and finishes, making this the perfect choice for bathroom wall and floor tiles. The finishes include shaped, matt, and polished, as well as a decorative fluted wall tile.
For more information head to the Quorn Stone website mystonefloor.com, or visit the Bristol Showroom at 92a Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2QN
Image: Carrara Rosa Pink Marble Effect Tiles
Elly West asks what the increased risk of flooding in England means for gardeners? Thankfully, it’s not all doom, gloom and rainclouds, however, as she shares some inspiration from flood‐resilient garden designs
I’m looking outside on to a rainy day after a wash-out summer as I’m writing this. And by the time this magazine is printed in November, I’m anticipating more of the same. Heavy storms and flash flooding are becoming a recurring challenge, in summer often following prolonged periods of drought, driven by climate change, unpredictable weather patterns and urbanisation. Last year’s winter was one of the wettest on UK records since 1890. According to the Environment Agency, one in six properties in England is now at risk of flooding, and this number is only set to increase.
But what does this mean for gardeners? Waterlogging submerges and kills plants, depriving their roots of oxygen. Heavy rain can cause soil erosion, compaction and structural problems for fences, sheds and outdoor buildings. Damp weather allows for a proliferation of pests such as slugs and snails, and fungal diseases like root rot and mildew. It also leads to moss and algae growth, making decking and paving slippery.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. At this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, Bristol-based designer and garden writer Naomi Slade exhibited her Flood Resilient Garden (pictured) with all of these issues in mind, and with a host of ideas that can be applied to our own outdoor spaces. Key to the garden was dense planting to slow the flow of the water, along with areas where water might be captured and stored for later use. Elevated areas that drain quickly kept sections habitable for plants that don’t like soggy roots. The focus was on enjoying the water, slowing its flow and directing it to a feature pond from which it could gradually soak away, and where pond and bog plants could enjoy the damp conditions.
Speaking at the show, she told me, “It’s about enjoying the pleasure of water and the sound. This garden is accessible and enjoyable before it rains, during the rain, and after the rain.”
She said the garden was inspired by the natural landscape but with lots of features that could be utilised in a domestic set up. In nature, rain falls and then has the chance to evaporate or drain away. The same concept was central to this garden, with every area carefully planned as to how it would be impacted by rain. “By creating raised areas in the garden, or even a raised bed, you can grow plants such as fruit, roses or lavender that like free-draining soil,” she explained.
The ‘sunny bank zone’ in her garden demonstrated this with geraniums, geums, poppies, roses and salvia intermingling happily. The ‘bog zone’ on the other hand, was a lower spot in the garden where conditions were wetter, and plants used here included astilbe, irises, rodgersia and water mint. Naomi added, “Don’t fight the conditions, plant for them.”
One of the main takeaways from this garden is to choose water resilient plants. If you know that you have lower-lying areas of the garden that are prone to waterlogging, then choose plants with big strong root systems that can cope with prolonged submersion in water. Leafy plants and trees also slow the flow of water by intercepting it and holding it on their leaves before it hits the ground, sheltering soil and preventing erosion from intense rain.
Trees and shrubs such as willow, alder, fatsia, dogwoods, silver birch and rowan don’t mind wet roots. Perennials such as astilbe, primrose, day lilies, violets, marsh marigolds, plus sedges and rushes are also suitable for soggy ground. Plants that need better drainage should be on higher areas or in raised beds, with grit added to improve and open up the soil.
Surface water flooding occurs when heavy rainfall can’t either flow to the nearest drain, or be absorbed into the ground, so to make our gardens more flood resistant, improving drainage is a good place to start. This
could mean installing French drains – gravel-filled trenches that redirect water away from vulnerable areas. Paving and lawns should always slope slightly away from the house as well, to prevent water from pooling.
Keep your gutters, downpipes and outside drains clear, especially around this time of year when they can quickly block with falling leaves. This will help to prevent overflows that can cause damp patches on the walls of your home. Use water butts to collect rainfall that you can then use in summer for watering. Guttering and butts can be installed on garages, sheds, greenhouses and other outdoor buildings as well as on your house.
The increase in paved front gardens has been called out as a major contributor to surface water flooding in urban areas, and planning permission is needed for many driveway installations for this reason. However, this is avoidable by choosing driveway surfaces that allow water to drain away, such as loose stones or gravel.
Permeable block paving is another option, but always consider mixing up areas of patio or driveway with areas of gravel and planted areas, which offer more drainage opportunities and also look much more attractive than an expanse of grey.
A healthy, uncompacted lawn also does a great job allowing water to flow through to the water table, although you may find it collects in certain spots if it has dips in it. Identify these spots when its dry, and fill with a mix of sand and top soil, then rake and lightly compact for a level surface, reseeding as necessary. If it’s a larger area, strip turf off first and replace it on top. n ellyswellies.co.uk
Once autumn leaves have dropped, the stems of shrubby dogwoods (Cornus) reveal themselves in all their colourful glory, continuing to be a highlight of the winter garden through until spring when the fresh leaves appear again.
During summer they fade into the background, forming a rounded shrub with inconspicuous flowers and green or variegated leaves, but when the show is over, they are more than capable of taking centre stage, especially when grown in drifts, or dotted around the garden at regular intervals.
There are varieties with bright green, yellow, purple, red or orange stems. ‘Midwinter Fire’ is a particular favourite, with multi-coloured stems that glow red, yellow and orange. ‘Sibirica’ is one of the best for vivid red stems, while ‘Kesselringii’ has a dramatic black-purple bark in winter.
Dogwoods are easy to grow and cope with waterlogged soil, although they prefer a spot that gets lots of sun. For the best colour, once the plant is established, cut all the stems right down to around 15cm in March (known as coppicing) as it’s the new shoots that are the most vibrant, and these will shoot up through the summer ready for next autumn and winter.
Guide Price £2,995,000 BACKWELL HOUSE - JUST 15 MINUTES DRIVE FROM CLIFTON, BRISTOL A STUNNING GEORGIAN HOUSE FULLY REFURBISHED, PROVIDING AN EXQUISITE FAMILY HOME IN C14 ACRES
The main living accommodation is principally arranged over two floors and would ideally suit a growing family.
The ground floor provides 4 beautiful reception rooms plus conservatory and kitchen / utility around a stunning central staircase leading to the first floor which provides 7 ensuite bedrooms, each with beautiful views over the grounds.
The second floor currently provides a further 2 ensuite bedrooms, which could be readily adapted for other uses within this family home. The property also benefits from a good sized basement, partially fitted out and ideal for a variety of ancillary uses.
The house is approached via a sweeping driveway and sits within approximately 14 acres, comprising front lawn, a rear private garden and surrounding paddocks. There is an outdoor swimming pool which can be readily recommissioned along with a former tennis court.
In addition, further outbuildings and three estate cottages can be purchased subject to separate negotiation.
Burston Cook: Knight Frank
Prime located properties in sought after residential locations...
An exceptional freehold opportunity in a prime Clifton location, just a short walk from Durdham Downs.
Offering 3,000 sq ft suitable for various commercial uses or residential conversion subject to planning consent.
Freehold with vacant possession—£750,000
An impressive, Italianate style mansion set within a one acre plot accessed via gravelled drive and benefitting from landscaped gardens, a self-contained 2/3 bed annexe, and a range of additional outbuildings. The property totals approximately 12,700 sq ft dating back to c. 1850 and offers the potential for a fantastic home or a range of development options (subject to consents).
Freehold for sale—price on application.
804 CENTRAL PARK, PETHERTON ROAD, HENGROVE, BRISTOL, BS14 9BZ
• AN INDUSTRIAL UNIT POSITIONED WITHIN THE POPULAR CENTRAL PARK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE IN HENGROVE
• GROUND AND FIRST FLOOR ACCOMMODATION WITH REAR COURTYARD FOR STORAGE
• APPROXIMATELY 1572 SQ FT (146.03 SQ M) (GIA)
• QUOTING £15,000 PER ANNUM, EXCLUSIVE
Contact Charlotte Bjoroy or Charlie Kershaw MRICS for further information.
A fully refurbished industrial unit of 2,066 sq ft (191.93 sq m) with large yard. The property has been fully refurbished and provides high quality open-plan storage/ workshop space, with WC facilities. New lease available. Contact Charlie Kershaw MRICS for further information.
Located in a prime city centre location overlooking the pedestrianised and revamped Colston Avenue, St Stephens House has been refurbished to provide a contemporary and creative open plan office. The space is available fully fitted with furniture PLUS high quality meeting rooms, kitchen, break out areas, auditorium style seating area...
• Approx 6,554 sq ft
• Elevated ground floor position
• DDA compliant
• Self contained
• Fully fitted
• Creative and contemporar y space
• Excellent natural light
• Parking may be available by separate negotiation
• Very competitive rent
Further information can be obtained via the sole agent: Burston Cook: Finola@burstoncook.co.uk
Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
Whiteladies Road, Clifton TO LET – POA
1,326 sq ft (123.18 sq m)
A self contained, light and airy office suite, located directly on Whiteladies Road, with up to 5 car parking spaces. New lease available.
St Stephens House, BS1 TO LET – POA
6,554 sq ft (609.1sq m)
Located in a prime city centre location, St Stephens House has been refurbished to provide a contemporary and creative open plan office, available fully fitted. Parking may be available by separate negotiation.
Griffin House, Clevedon TO LET / FOR SALE
5,176 sq ft – 10,351 sq ft (480.85 sq m – 961.61 sq m)
A substantial, modern office providing accommodation over ground and first floors due to be refurbished. New lease available. Alternatively, the freehold is available to purchase with vacant possession.
Clare Street, BS1 FOR SALE / MAY LET – POA
2,645 sq ft (245.72 sq m)
A rare opportunity to purchase a landmark iconic property located in the heart of the city centre. Freehold for sale with vacant possession. Suitable for a range of uses (STP). Consideration would also be given to a letting.
Queen Square, Bristol, BS1
TO LET – POA
St Pauls Road, Clifton TO LET – POA
2,618 sq ft (243.21 sq m)
A substantial end of terrace office building providing self contained accommodation over ground and upper floors with excellent on site car parking. The space is due to be refurbished to a contemporary standard.
Paintworks, BS4 FOR SALE – POA
7,929 sq ft (736.6 sq m)
An iconic, landmark building in the heart of the Paintworks development. Finished to a very high specification to include auditorium, lift, high quality M & E and 8 car parking spaces.
Whiteladies Road, Clifton FOR SALE – POA
4,300 sq ft (399.47sq m)
A rare freehold opportunity comprising high-quality office accommodation with excellent potential for alternative commercial uses or residential conversion. Benefiting from a large forecourt and courtyard garden to the rear.
326 – 2,099 sq ft (30 - 195 sq m)
A charming, self-contained office which is due to be refurbished and benefits from 2 allocated car parking spaces. Use Class E therefore suitable for different uses to include offices, medical etc.
20 High Street, Thornbury TO LET/FOR SALE
1,614 sq ft (149.94 sq m)
A three storey Grade II listed mid terrace property on the High Street in Thornbury. Offering 1614 sq ft of accommodation (149.94 sq m), the ground floor is let to BREAK until September 2026, first and second floor sold with vacant possession.
Cumberland Road, BS1 TO LET – POA
593 – 2,303 sq ft (55.09 –213.95 sq m)
An attractive building, due to be refurbished to a contemporary standard with bike storage and showers. Benefiting from Use Class E and therefore suitable for a wide range of different uses.
DISCOVER THE LATEST NEWS FROM BRISTOL’S PROPERTY EXPERTS
Data from Santander reports that two-thirds of recent firsttime buyers bought in a neighbourhood they had never been to before, and half of all buyers move to unchartered territory. Whether relocating for work, family or lifestyle reasons, moving to a new area and buying a home is a major financial and emotional commitment.
For buyers considering moving to a new area, here are some key steps to assist with making an informed decision:
1. Spend time in the area
Really spend time exploring an area in person. Take the time to sit outside the property you have viewed to get a sense of the road and neighbourhood by who is coming and going from neighbouring properties. You should also spend time in local coffee shops, or pubs, to again get a feel for the demographic and way of living. Talk to people whilst there; you may be lucky to find the vocal shop worker who will give you the warts and all low down on any issues in the area.
Visit the road or neighbourhood at different times of the day and night, and on the weekends. This is particularly important if a property is near to a school as you will want to get a sense of how congested it feels around school drop off and collect times.
2. ‘Skip watch’
When viewing a property in a new area, take the time to look at neighbouring houses and the extent to which recent works have been done. Whilst builders’ vans and skips may look unsightly, it’s a really good sign of investment in an area and people improving their homes.
Always get details from the selling agent as to any local housing regulations and whether the property falls within a Conservation Area.
3. Safety
Review the online ‘police crime map’ that will show the crime figures for a specific road and surrounding areas. This will give a sense of hot spots of crime in the local area, and the types of crimes. It’s always however advised to exercise a certain air of caution in looking at a crime map: it's worthwhile comparing the area you are looking at, to an area you know well and feel comfortable in, as it may be whilst there are reports of crime, it’s not too inconsistent with the levels in an area that you know and feel safe in. It can however be useful if you are considering buying a house to see if any neighbouring properties are particular ‘hot spots’ for anti-social behaviour.
4. Schools and education
With the scrapping of OFSTED grades that often-provided parents an instant snapshot of how well a local school is performing, and influenced decisions around where to live, more time will now be required of buyers to really get to know the local schools.
If you are buying in a new area and the draw is to get into the local school, always make a point of calling the admissions team and finding out about the likely levels of intake for your child's school year.
5. Look at investment in the area
Always take time to look at what chains are investing in an area. As well as the Waitrose/M&S effect, hospitality is also a key indicator. If sites such as The Loungers Group, for example, are opening in an area, it’s a real seal of approval for an area with hospitality groups often spotting the 'right' area long before the general public does.
6. Talk to a local buying agent
A local buying agent will be on the ground, live locally and be in a position to give a buyer an unfiltered view of an area.
By taking the time to research and evaluate all aspects of a new location, a buyer is more likely to find a home that fits their needs and makes it a smooth transition.
Whatever stage you are at in the search for your perfect home or investment property, we’d love to chat.
Lili Oliver
Oliver Roth Property
Consultants
T: 0117 9877 828 | E: home@oliverroth.co.uk
Cotham, Bristol | Guide Price
Leigh Woods, Bristol | Guide Price £1,500,000
A beautiful four-bedroom coach house, situated on a private road in a highly sought-after location with easy access to Clifton Village and Leigh Woods Nature Reserve.
Four-bedroom coach house | Two bath/shower rooms | Stunning open-plan family
and
room | Separate reception
| Two allocated parking spaces | Private South-East-facing terrace | Extensive manicured communal gardens | Turnkey accommodation throughout | Offered chain-free | EPC: C
