might just have a new favourite Bristolian. Twentieth-century abstract artist Marjorie Watson-Williams – who you may be more familiar with by her adopted androgenous name Paule Vézelay –is finally getting the recognition she deserves in the first major posthumous exhibition of her playful work abundant with vibrantly lyrical, biomorphic arching shapes and lines.
I’m by no means a voice of authority on abstract art, but I urge you to visit Living Lines at the RWA while Vézelay’s work is on display there (thankfully you have until 27 April).
Consider this, the first major solo exhibition of Vézelay’s art in more than 40 years, a triumphant homecoming.
Born here in 1892, Vézelay became a central player in the Parisian avant-garde movement of the ‘20s and ‘30s. But despite her presence and influence on the scene being acknowledged over the years, her work remained underrated for some time; a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed. Thankfully, Living Lines curator Simon Grant has done just that, and you can find out more about the must-see exhibition and his incredible work telling Vézelay’s story from page 44.
What would Vézelay herself think of all this fanfare, I wonder? Considering she didn’t spend her days diligently marketing her works, opting for a genteel approach to her craft over prioritising sales – I expect her response would be dignified and reserved. But I’d love to think that underneath her forthright manner, she’d be secretly delighted to see more than 60 of her remarkable works (which she apparently saw as “her own children”) adorning the walls of a major art institution in the city.
Living Lines taking form at the RWA coincides with another major celebration across the city: Chinese New Year of the Snake. Though the two events couldn’t seem more different, they both embrace the themes of wisdom, transformation and renewal. Marjorie WatsonWilliams chose to shed a version of herself, re-emerging as Paule Vézelay in Paris between two World Wars in devotion to art’s abstraction. I think many of us would be lying if we said we’d never dreamed of dramatically reinventing ourselves in a bohemian European city à la Paule… but who says that can’t be in Bristol, I suppose?
Rosanna Spence
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CLIFTON ARCADE
Simply beautiful floors you’ll love for a lifetime
5 things to do
Try a new craft
Unlock your creativity by exploring stained glass at the Glass & Arrow studio. Experience the beauty of colour and light as you create unique, handcrafted art in sessions that are perfect for beginners, with no creative background needed. The studio boasts panoramic sea views of the North Somerset coast. Book one of the upcoming workshops taking place on 8, 15 and 16 February (limited spaces are available) at glassandarrow.co.uk
Find flowers
Snowdrops will poke their delicate white heads above the ground in droves this month – a welcome reminder that winter doesn’t last forever. Snowdrop spotting is the perfect excuse to get out of the house, and there are plenty of places to see them throughout February, including Dyrham Park, Yeo Valley Organic Garden and the Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival.
Brush up on your ski-lls
Outdoor and snow sports lovers will be familiar with Bristol-based retailer Ellis Brigham, which has been offering expert advice and specialist kit for adventures for more than 50 years from its Whiteladies Road store in Clifton. As part of a Knowledge Nights series, the team is hosting author and coach Louise Pode for a ‘How to Build Your Skiing Confidence’ seminar. As anyone who has had the pleasure of skiing knows, sudden or on-going lack of confidence can be a real hurdle to enjoyment and achievement on the slopes. Using her expert skills in personal development and coaching, Louise will challenge the psychology of your skiing and share strategies for switching your mindset from feeling overwhelmed, out of control and anxious to feeling calm, relaxed and happy. Wednesday 5 February, 7pm –8.30pm at Ellis Brigham, Whiteladies Road, BS8 2XZ. Tickets are £15, available from EventBrite
Follow the lights
There’s still time to catch Bristol Light Festival, on until 9 February, bringing splashes of colour and plenty of play to the city’s dark winter nights. Three new installations have been added to the already dazzling lineup: a nostalgic exploration of water inspired by Sydney Harbour, a heart-shaped disco ball (pictured) blanketing onlookers in dapples of light, and the return of musical installation Swing Song, which has enjoyed a little revamp. Other bright things to expect include a flock of 1,000 flamingoes and three soulful robotic creatures. bristollightfestival.org
Watch plenty of theatre
There are plenty of shows at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School to see you through the last leg of winter. First up, a double bill of double bills in the shape of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream and Much Ado About Nothing, directed by Ali de Souza, takes place at The Station on Silver Street from 13-15 February; and The Comedy of Errors and The Merry Wives of Windsor (same venue, but this time directed by Joe Leat) from 20-22 February. Finally, creeping into the first few days of March is Greek tragedy Thebans (pictured rather gorily below, written by Liz Lochhead after Sophocles and Euripides, directed by Max Key), which takes over The Station from 1 March. Info and tickets at oldvic.ac.uk
The Cityist
MyBristol
Meet Abdul Raoof Malik: Councillor, businessman and community champion
Bedmo Station gets a mural makeover
Upfest and Severnside Community Rail Partnership have unveiled two new murals in Bedminster Station to celebrate the local community and cultural transformation of the area. Renowned Bristol street artists Lucas Antics and Paul Roberts (pictured below) have transformed the underpass, brightening the space for the growing number of commuters using the station. The project has been supported by local councillors Ed Plowden and Lisa Snowden, as well as the Severnside Community Rail Partnership. They successfully secured funding from the Bristol City Council Community Infrastructure Levy and Great Western Railway, playing a key role in facilitating the project's delivery. Previous artwork created by Victoria Park Primary School, which had outlasted its shelf life at the station, was returned to be showcased on the school grounds.
My connection to Bristol runs deep, as a born Bristolian, a lifelong resident and through the numerous roles I’ve held here. I’m currently a Green Party councillor for Ashley Ward, focusing on the finances, communities and sustainability of our great city, but I’m also a businessman, opening my first venture at the age of 16, which grew into a successful chain.
I’ve dedicated my life to community service. In 2005, I was the first South Asian councillor to be elected in recent times, and I’ve had the honour of chairing Easton Jamia Masjid, a place of worship established over four decades ago. I’m the founder of many community initiatives, like the Bristol Kashmir Foundation and Feed the Homeless Bristol – I’ve also served as a Governor for both a primary and secondary school, as well as being a Magistrate for Avon and Somerset. I’ve been honoured with the Lord Mayor’s Medal for community work, MTM Person of the Year and recognition on the University of Bristol’s BME Power List. These accolades reflect not just my work but the collective spirit of Bristol’s people, whose trust and collaboration have shaped every step of my journey.
Easton Jamia Masjid on St Marks Road in Easton is the place that inspires me most. Leading the redevelopment of this space is one of my favourite memories. Over the course of a decade it was an opportunity to give back to a place that had given me so much – a spiritual home where I learned about my roots and faith. The trust placed in me by the community was overwhelming, and seeing the completed mosque stand as a beacon of unity and pride for Bristol is something I’ll never forget, having walked in the steps of my elders who established the mosque over 40 years ago it was a true honour to bring the building to life with the new ideas and approach.
The mosque is where I’ve spent my life learning about my roots and religion, so when the community entrusted me to lead the redevelopment as chair, it was profoundly humbling. The work won the mosque a Bristol Civic Award, two National Beacon Awards, and its own Lord Mayor’s Medal for being a role model institution. To me, the mosque represents the beauty of community and faith, and it stands as a testament to what can be achieved through hard work and unity.
Easton perfectly embodies Bristol’s diversity. Walking its streets, you’ll hear different languages, see food from all corners of the world, and experience a unique energy that only comes from a thriving multicultural community. It’s a place where cultures don’t just coexist – they interact and enrich each other and I’d say the epicentre of Easton has to be the amazing St Marks Road, being the ‘Greatest Street in the Country’ as awarded by the Academy of Urbanism. It hosts the Grand Iftar, a gathering of more than 3,000 people yearly in Ramadan, and the businesses – as well as religious institutions, which includes the mosque and church – work together to make a real impact to the local residents and visitors.
Bristolians have a fierce sense of justice and community. Whether it’s standing up for the environment, supporting vulnerable groups, or preserving the city’s heritage, we’re always ready to take action. What sets us apart is our ability to balance a progressive outlook with deep respect for tradition and culture. n abdulraoofmalik.com
Briony May Williams is on a mission to encourage city visits
Briony May Williams, Great British Bake Off contestant and television presenter, has teamed up with The Bristol hotel to create a bespoke guide to the city for people – whether they’re visiting friends and loved ones, or live nearby and are taking a staycation. Briony’s comprehensive guide (which is part of the hotel’s new Curated Weekends in Bristol platform) is teeming with insider knowledge. It features her hit list for an ideal 48 hour stay in Bristol, complete with a shopping guide for some hidden gems. Included in this guide is M Shed, Clifton’s vintage shopping scene and St Nicholas Market. “Growing up in Bristol, I am a very proud Bristolian and love nothing more than showing off this wonderful city to visiting friends,” she says. “Bristol is just full of hidden gems... What I love about Bristol is its love for independents and creativity.” Briony has also created two bespoke packages with The Bristol, which you can find more information about on the website, in the ‘Slice of the City’ section. doylecollection.com/bristol
Brunel’s hospital designs go on display
The first exhibition made by a community researcher is now on permanent display in the SS Great Britain’s Dockyard Museum.
The piece, which artist and designer Jacqueline Braithwaite created, was inspired by Renkioi Hospital – a pop-up field hospital designed by Brunel for use in the Crimean War.
Jacqueline’s artwork is the latest in a series of creative responses, which include video content and print pieces produced by researchers, as part of the Community Research programme at the SS Great Britain Trust. The Community Research programme encourages open and honest investigation and exploration. It aims to empower people to publish, write, draw and make from original archival material, developing and opening up positive and tangible bonds with new communities and audiences in Bristol.
In other news from SS Great Britain, history lovers can now play a vital role in preserving the iconic ship by virtually ‘adopting’ an item (including Brunel’s final cigar and one of the last tickets ever issued) from the Trust’s collection, helping to safeguard it for future generations. For more details and to get involved, head to: ssgreatbritain.org
Randox Health Opens New Clinic in Holland & Barrett, Cabot Circus
Randox Health is opening its new clinic in Holland & Barrett, Bristol Cabot Circus, bringing cutting-edge health testing right to the heart of the city.
With more than 40 years of innovation in diagnostics, Randox Health empowers individuals to take control of their health through personalised, preventative health testing. This partnership with Holland & Barrett makes health testing more accessible than ever, offering a wide range of comprehensive tests, including areas such as heart, hormonal, gut, nutritional, genetic and cancer risk testing. Whether you’re looking to track your health, gain deeper insights into your body, or address specific concerns, Randox Health provides quick and reliable results, because knowledge is power.
Readers can use the code BRISTOL12 to get 12% off an inclinic health test!
randoxhealth.com
The display, with Jacqueline Braithwaite’s image at the bottom right-hand corner
Bristol Choral Society releases album
Bristol Choral Society (BCS) is celebrating the release of its second professional album with Delphian Records: Praise Him with Trumpets. Curated by BCS musical director Hilary Campbell, the album is a celebration of British choral music, ranging from Holst to Vaughan Williams, featuring Britten’s much-loved Rejoice in the Lamb and some of today’s most vibrant voices.
At its heart are three premiere recordings: Dame Judith Weir’s Praise Him with Trumpets, Grace-Evangeline Mason’s A Memory of the Ocean – a Royal Philharmonic Society commission that was first performed in BCS’s 2023 live concert – and Elizabeth Poston’s Festal Te Deum, a rediscovered gem. In the album, the choir’s longstanding collaborators Charlotte Mobbs and pianist Steven Kings also bring to life vivid Shakespeare settings by Vaughan Williams, Elizabeth Maconchy and Cecilia McDowall. bristolchoral.co.uk
Sign up to Tour de Bristol or new Cambodian adventure in aid of St Peter’s Hospice
Charity bike ride Tour de Bristol, organised by St Peter’s Hospice, has returned for 2025 and is encouraging people to sign up. Taking place on 5 April, participants can choose from three different routes – 40, 65 or 100km – all starting from the UWE Centre for Sport and heading into the Gloucestershire countryside. Take in the stunning local scenery and enjoy feed stations along the route, chip timing and, of course, a medal at the finish line. People looking for a fundraising intiative futher afield can also sign up to trek through rural Cambodia. Described as a ‘trip of a lifetime’, this incredible adventure takes in one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries and will raise vital funds for St Peter’s Hospice. The five-day trek is due to take place in March 2026, with fundraisers journeying to Angkor Wat, exploring the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, rural valleys, dense forests and the upper plains of the Kulen Mountain. Hayley Ali, Events Fundraising Manager at St Peter’s Hospice, said: “Extreme challenges like this one have become more and more popular in recent years and we’re really pleased to be able to offer it to our supporters who want to try something different.” For more info on both events, visit stpetershospice.org
Local author uses poetry power to help people explore the coast
Local author Anthony Keyes (pictured above) is inviting readers to explore the stunning North Somerset coastline through poetry in his new release, The Poetry Field. Published by Austin Macauley Publishers, this fully illustrated collection offers more than just words – it connects readers with real-world locations along the North Somerset Seashore Poetry Trail.
The free trail, marked by 11 poetry plaques in locations like Middle Hope, Sand Bay, Clevedon and Portishead, allows visitors to experience the beauty of the coast while engaging with Keyes’ evocative poems. Notable works include Beatles Rock, commemorating The Beatles' week-long visit in 1963 to Westonsuper-Mare, and poignant tributes to local history, such as the memorial to Herbert Byrne, a Bristol soldier in WWI, on the outside wall of St Mary on the Quay Church in Bristol. With its mix of nature, history, and personal reflection, The Poetry Field offers readers an opportunity for both coastal exploration and emotional recharge. Whether you’re walking the 5km route between Uphill and Birnbeck Pier or reading at home, Keyes’ intention is that each poem provides a soothing, therapeutic escape.
The book is priced at £9.99 RRP and is available to order from the publisher, book shops, Amazon and other online outlets. austinmacauley.com
Funny bones
Slapstick Festival is gearing up to mark its 20th birthday this month, with comedy heroes from Martin Freeman to Meera Syal, and Stephen K. Amos to Harry Enfield taking to the stage to reflect and celebrate some of the industry’s funniest people. Oh, and Ben Elton’s in town too, collecting the Aardman Slapstick Comedy Legend award for his, well, legendary contribution to screen and stage (we caught up with him to find out more...)
The UK’s biggest festival of screen comedy is back. And it’s celebrating a pretty impressive two-decade run in February.
Among the myriad of revered comic icons flocking to the city for Slapstick to divulge their deepest delights when it comes to all things funny is comedian, actor, author, playwright, lyricist and director Ben Elton – who is this year’s winner of the Aardman Slapstick Comedy Legend Award.
He first achieved widespread fame for the left-leaning satirical rants he delivered as the host of Channel 4’s Saturday Live. But his career as a scriptwriter began in 1980 and went on to give him writing credits and cameo roles in a wide array of TV comedy classics, among them The Young Ones, the showbiz spoof Filthy Rich & Catflap, some of the Blackadder series and Upstart Crow, and to collaborations with stars such as French & Saunders, Rik Mayall, Ade Edmondson, Emma Thompson, Stephen Fry and Rowan Atkinson.
Along the way, he has also written over a dozen novels and worked on musicals, including Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Beautiful Game, and on the smash hit jukebox musical built around Queen songs, We Will Rock You. With onscreen extracts, Ben will be talking with Last Leg presenter and comedian Adam Hills on Sunday 16 February at Bristol Old Vic (8.30pm) about highlights of his career prior to receiving a personalised Morph, conferring on him Aardman Slapstick Comedy Legend status.
“What an amazing honour to be joining such an incredible pantheon of Aardman/Slapstick Legends!”, Ben said of his latest accolade. “I would have liked to have pulled off a perfect pratfall to celebrate, but at 65 I’m worried I’d do my back in. I may slap a custard pie in my face though, because I am truly thrilled and grateful.”
The Bristol Magazine couldn’t wait until his stage appearance to find out a little more about Ben’s upcoming celebration, and in his own words to us, a “44 years and counting” contribution to the world of comedy. When we asked how he felt about being crowned a comedy legend, he replied: “I’m genuinely thrilled; this award comes from people who love and honour comedy, and so clearly it’s very flattering they’ve picked me.”
Legendary status
Looking back over his long and varied career, we were curious to know if there a particular project or piece of work Ben wished he could revisit, rework or expand on if given the chance? “I wish the BBC had given us a fourth series of Upstart Crow,” he tells us. “I had it all planned with the late plays and it would have completed the canon. But hey, I can’t complain, they have limited resources and three series was a pretty good run.”
Slapstick Comedy Festival is also presenting two events centred around his collaborators on The Young Ones – one for the late comedy genius Rik Mayall, and Nigel Planer (AKA Neil the pacifist hippy) is also appearing in That’s Really Heavy Man in conversation with Robin Ince. Rik has clearly left a mark on the comedy world (Ben says of his enduring influence: “Look, I’m not going to try and gathrr together a string of superlatives. People can write their own. Rik was my friend and one of
the principle collaborators in my career. He was a brilliant and unique original and I miss him very much.”). And The Young Ones continues to draw new generations of fans, though Ben acknowledges “No TV will ever resonate in the same way as they did in the pre internet days. Popularity used to be universal now it’s tribal.”
Now that Ben is joining the likes of Robert Lindsay, French & Saunders, June Whitfield and Sir Ken Dodd OBE as an official Comedy Legend, we were keen to know who his own legends are. “My heroes are those of my youth, I think that’s true for most people,” he says. “Morecambe and Wise, The Pythons, Galton and Simpson. I think my favourite comedy film is Spinal Tap. Historically Chaplin. In the last 20 years, Curb Your Enthusiasm. And, of course, Woody Allen is a comic genius.”
Having performed in our city many times over the years, and been cowriter (plus occasional actor) in cult classic show The Young Ones, which was partly filmed in Bristol, does Ben like it here? “I do love the history and love to visit the SS Great Britain and walk around the docks. I guess history and culture combined with the toppling of the Colston Statue [in 2020], so Bristol's still at the cutting edge of both!”
Also on the bill….
Besides Ben reflecting on his multi-decade comedy, multiple awardwinning actor Martin Freeman is to host the gala evening of silent film comedies and live music at Bristol Beacon, which will be the Valentine’s Day centrepiece of the festival. The Hot Fuzz, The Hobbit, and The Office star will introduce three classic silent comedies, each accompanied live and with keyboard legend Rick Wakeman among the instrumentalists.
Elsewhere, in what will be a rare live stage appearance, Harry Enfield will be at the Bristol Old Vic on Sunday 16 February (6pm start) to share with fellow comic Robin Ince his favourite film and TV comedy moments and their influence on the many memorable characters he has created. Other highlights from the strong 2025 programme that you won’t want to miss include Rick Wakeman hosting a salute to his great friend Ian Lavender and Ian’s work as a cast member of Dad’s Army; Samira Ahmed talking with Graeme Garden about the women who worked with The Goodies; Stephen K. Amos, sharing his comedy heroes and introducing Mel Brooks’s Blazing Saddles as his favourite film; Nigel Planer saluting his late, great, co-star Rik Mayall; Lucy Porter opening a three-film look at 1920s silents poking fun at Soviet politics; Adam Hills trading stories with Mike ‘McGear’ McCartney about the showbiz moments Mike has captured on film thanks to his lifelong passion for photography; Meera Syal, Sanjeev Bhaskar and Anil Gupta reuniting to look back at the impact of their ground-breaking comedy series Goodness Gracious Me, and consider its legacy; and Peter Lord, Aardman cofounder, introducing a Wallace & Gromit bill that will include a big screen showing of the newest in the series: Vengeance Most Fowl n Slapstick takes place across some of Bristol’s most iconic cultural venues from 12-16 February. For more information and tickets, visit slapstick.org.uk
Images (L-R, T-B): Rik Mayall, Ben Elton (credit: Trevor Leighton), Harry Enfield, Martin Freeman, Stephen K. Amos, Adam Hills,Sanjeev Bhaskar, Meera Syal, Nina Wadia and Kulvinder Ghir
PASTEL perfection
Rejoice! It’s time to take those first tentative steps out of winter’s depths and hop, skip and jump into pre-spring’s gentle embrace. If your post-winter wardrobe is lacking some stand-out statements, then these options in calming pops of colour – ideal for layering up looks – from Jigsaw might just be the missing puzzle pieces you seek... jigsaw-online.com | 80 Park Street, BS1 5LA
Graffiti Lips Tank. in Pink, £130.
Heckfield Suede, Tote,in Tan, £195,
Floral Mist Asymmetric. Skirt, £145.
Loop Intarsia Jumper. £165.
Corduroy Pleat0 Trouser, £1500
Cotton Stripe Shirt, £110
Chunky Textured Cotton. Jumper in Mint. £120
Modal Lace Vest. in Mountain Lake, £32.
Viscose Drape Cape0 Dress0in Navy, £2550
Silk Scrunchie in. Dusty Pink, £16.
Portland Vintage Classic Trainer, £1450
Nakoa Leather Mix Jacket0 in Pink, £3650
Gold Vermeil Earring, £95.
Gifts of Love
HAVE YOUR CAKE, AND EAT IT TOO
This cute little L’Amour Baby Two‐Tier Cake from Anna Cake Couture is 3.5" in diameter across the top tier and 5" in diameter across the bottom tier, providing between four and six portions – perfect for an indulgent night in for two. You can personalise the iced message on top, as well as the colour of the iced layers, bows and cherries. Eleven flavours are available to choose from. £50
thisisanna.co.uk
7A Boyce's Ave, Clifton, BS8 4AA
LOVED AND LOVED AGAIN
With over 40 years’ experience trading beautiful jewellery of the highest quality, a visit to Terry Cox at Clifton Village Antiques is an absolute must. With so many amazing treasures on display and at incredible prices – it’s easy to find something that will be loved for years to come. This 1ct emerald‐cut diamond platinum ring is just £2,800 – a huge saving compared with high street jewellers.
By Charbonnel et Walker and made in the UK, this 130g box features eight dark chocolate truffles with a dark chocolate ganache and a Scotch whisky centre lightly coated in cocoa powder. £18
johnlewis.com
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, BS34 5QU NEVER BREAK THE CHAIN
A silver pebble pendant from Diana Porter with an organic finish, hand‐etched with words including ‘growing, learning, loving, knowing, accepting, laughing, dreaming’ highlighted in 22ct yellow gold on a silver chain extendable chain.
dianaporter.co.uk
33 Park Street, BS1 5NH
AND THEY CALL IT PUPPY LOVE
Just like the unconditional love of a furry friend, each biscuit in this tin from Biscuiteers is crafted with care and devotion – because nothing says love quite like puppies and hand‐iced biscuits! Inside you'll find nine gingerbread biscuits including a pug, a poodle, a golden retriever, a beagle, a cockapoo and a dachshund. £39.95
biscuiteers.com
MESSAGE ON A BOTTLE
Give the gift of a personalised 70cl bottle of local delicious artisan 6 O’Clock Gin, perfect for the gin lover in your life. Choose from London Dry; Brunel Edition; Mango, Ginger & Lime; Damson or Sloe. Your personalised label is made to order, and the bottle will come gift‐boxed and ready to wrap. £42-£49
6oclockgin.com
C7 Ashville Park, Short Way, Thornbury, BS35 3UU
PICK THE BEST OF THE BUNCH
Based in the city centre (Broad Quay), Roots Floral Designs has this gorgeous bouquet called ‘Head Over Heels’, which includes red roses with pink and peach flowers arranged in an upcycled pickle jar. You can choose from three to nine roses, with foliage varying. £50-£85
rootsfloraldesigns.co.uk
1 Broad Quay, BS1 4DA
WHAT A SWEETHEART
Doghouse has created an adorable limited‐edition Sweetheart Dachshund Fleece Jumper! Complete with Sweetheart badge stitched on the rear. Choose between pink and yellow fleece colours, with three cute badge slogans available. Brighten up your winter walkies and show your pup how much you love them! £32
doghouse.co.uk
18 Portland Street, Clifton, BS8 4JH
EYE-CATCHING ACCESSORIES
This Valentine’s Day treat a loved one – or yourself! – to stunning accessories from Motiq2. Pictured is the Faux Fur Heart Bag, £35, and the Ombre Fine Wool Scarf, £69
From Nicholas Wylde's new and exclusive Radiance collection; a beautiful range of interchangeable diamond jewellery that allows you mix and match different colour halo disks to suit your mood or wardrobe. Shown here: a Radiance pendant with a 1ct diamond –£POA.
nicholaswylde.com
6 The Mall, Clifton, BS8 4DR
NIGHT NIGHT, DARLING
Discover exotic animals from all over the world in the stunning Love Circus kimono from Juste Moi, featuring an all‐over print of Moroccan monkeys, Bengal tigers, Indian cobras and even a flying horse. The robe boasts a beautiful pine forest green colour with hints of cherry, plum blue, and orange, and is made from sustainable cotton modal with a touch of elastane for a comfortable, flowing fit. Matching pants are available (£94). £209
justemoi.co.uk
21 The Mall, Clifton, BS8 4JG
PAMPERING YOUR PALS
Celebrating Galentine’s Day on the 13 February?
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
LOEWE Aire Sutileza’s delicate fragrance is now available in a colourful new bottle, forming part of LOEWE's Botanical Rainbow. LOEWE Aire is a family of fragrances inspired by the pure and fresh air all around us – uplifting, elemental and life‐giving.
Floral and delicate, LOEWE Aire Sutileza combines notes of pear, muguet and jasmine. LOEWE Aire Sutileza comes encapsulated in a translucent glass flask in a soft shade of leaf green. £125(100ml)
harveynichols.com
7 Philadelphia Street, Quakers Friars, Broadmead, BS1 3BZ
Spoil your favourite gal pals with this relaxing Oliver Bonas Night In Pamper Set, illustrated with a soothing scene drawn in the Oliver Bonas creative studios. Includes eye gels, hair mask, overnight lip mask and scalp massager to help relax before bed. £25
oliverbonas.com
21 Philadelphia Street, Quakers Friars, Broadmead, BS1 3BZ
2. Mallory Ruby and Diamond Half Eternity Ring in 18ct White Gold, £5300.00
3. Mallory Pink Sapphire Bracelet in 18ct White Gold, £6475.00 4. Chopard Happy Hearts 18ct Rose Gold Onyx and Diamond Pendant, £6920.00
5. Mallory 14ct Yellow and White Gold Stud Earrings, £465.00
6. Mallory Onyx Cufflinks in Sterling Silver, £180.00
7. Omega De Ville Prestige 41mm Watch in Steel, £4800.00
8. Mallory Ruby and Diamond Ring Platinum and 18ct Yellow Gold, £16245.00
9. Chopard Happy Sport 36mm Watch in Steel, £6390
10. Mallory Onyx Signet Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold, £1850.00
11. Mallory Antique Pearl and Pink Tourmaline Arrow Brooch in Yellow Gold, £800
12. Montblanc Meisterstück Olympic Heritage Paris 1924 Fountain Pen, £780.00
13. Montblanc Sartorial Red Leather Pen Pouch, £160.00
Mental
Health
&
Therapy Skills
Join the 10,000s of people already benefiting from our clear, practical training to discover the best ways to help adults and children overcome a wide range of difficulties. You will leave each course with a wealth of psychological insights, practical tips and skills you can implement straight away. Subjects include:
· Self-Harm
· Rewind Technique for treating Trauma & PTSD
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Venue: Engineers’ House, Bristol BS8 3NB Online courses also available https://www.humangivens.com/college/online
courses in Bristol humangivens.com/college 01323 811690 info@humangivens.com
Book shelf
This month, our friends at Gloucester Road Books share new releases 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.com; @gloucester_rd_books; 184 Gloucester Road, Bishopston, BS7 8NU.
Open Monday and Tuesday 9.30am-5pm; Wednesday to Saturday 9.30am-6pm
James, by Percival Everett, Mantle, out now
The release of James in paperback is approaching! One of our favourite reads of 2024, Percival Everett brings his wild genius imagination to the world of Mark Twain’s Huckleberry Finn, reframing our perspective as readers to centre the experience of James, the enslaved man known as Jim from the original novel. This is an adventure story very much in the mode of Twain’s, but as we have come to expect from Everett, it is much more besides.
Show Don’t Tell, by Curtis Sittenfeld, Doubleday, out 27 February
A collection of short stories with characters no less familiar or complete than those you’d find in Sittenfeld’s novels. This collection promises to be gloriously entertaining and tender - the perfect chunks to sink into after a chaotic holiday season. Sittenfeld writes about the essential stuff of life, the messy, wonderful, bewildering essence of human relationships.
You Dreamed of Empires by Álvaro Enrigue, Harvill Secker, out now
You Dreamed of Empires is a fictionalised account of a meeting between the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés, and Moctezuma, leader of the Aztec, empire in what is now Mexico City, but was at the time the extraordinary floating city of Tenoxtitlan. There is plenty of political intrigue here, on both sides, and the novel is pyrotechnically rich with sensory experience. It was one of the most extraordinary books I read last year, and now out in paperback. Savour it!
Love in Exile by Shon Faye, Allen Lane, out 6 February
Faye provides an insight into a loveless experience of the world and what that can do to a person who feels there is something inherently wrong with them. At once deeply personal and importantly universal, this promises to be an illuminating and guiding text that argues for more, deeper, connections.
Gender Theory by Madeline Docherty, John Murray, out now
Madeline Docherty’s novel, Gender Theory blends the confusion and longing of teenage self-discovery with the more literal pain of coming to terms with chronic illness. The second-person narrative allows us to immerse ourselves in the raw vulnerability, and the blurred boundaries of female friendship felt all too familiar. A searing debut.
What’s On
Our guide to the best things to see and do this month
Meet Up to Meditate
n Every Tuesday, 1pm & 7.30pm 80 Queens Road, Clifton, BS8
The Seekers of Self-Knowledge offer free meditation classes each Tuesday in Clifton, at two sessions to suit your schedule. Classes are open to beginners and improvers alike.
Email info@meetuptomeditate.co.uk to book your space
Bristol Choral Society presents Come and Sing: A Little Jazz Mass n 8 February, 1pm
Tyndale Baptist Church, BS8 2QG
A chance to spend an afternoon exploring Bob Chilcott’s A Little Jazz Mass. Composed in 2004, it manages to bring together two diverse traditions in a highly original and effective setting. Led by the dynamic musical director Hilary Campbell and accompanied by Steve Kings, it's bound to be another great afternoon of music. Tickets are £20 (under-26: £10) and include refreshments. bristolchoral.co.uk
Dreamy Dormice Wildlife Talk n 11 February, 7pm
Conservation Education Centre, Guthrie Road, Clifton, BS83EZ
The delightful, dreamy dormouse is rarely
seen due to its nocturnal habits and treedwelling lifestyle. Take a journey through a year in the life of this endearing, endangered inhabitant of Leigh Woods and find out how it is faring locally. Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project’s expert speaker is Cathy Mayne, ecologist and programme lead at Leigh Woods, who will also talk about how this local woodland is managed to improve the chances of survival for this iconic little creature. Tickets are £8, with speaker’s fee donated to People’s Trust for Endangered Species. Book by phone 0117 428 5300 or online at avongorge.org.uk
Bristol Film Festival: Chocolat with TEDxBristol n 13 February, 6pm 1532 Bristol, Elton Road, BS8 1S
Just in time for Valentine’s day, enjoy a sweet treat in Bristol, the home of the very first chocolate factory, with Chocolat, the delicious story of a woman who opens a chocolate shop at the start of Lent in a pious French village. Attendees will be joined for a talk before the screening by Carlos Ayala, a chocolate maker who offers sensory chocolate tasting experiences. This is the third screening in partnership with TEDxBRISTOL, which combines great films with insightful talks. bristolfilmfestival.com
A Pleasing Terror: Two Ghost Stories by M.R. James
n 13 & 14 February, 8pm
Alma Tavern and Theatre, BS8 2HY
A gripping retelling of two of the eeriest and most entertaining tales from M. R. James, the master of the English ghost story.
In Canon Alberic’s Scrap-book, a young Cambridge antiquary discovers the dark side of manuscript illumination, in a medieval cathedral in the French Pyrenees. In The Mezzotint, a ghoulish revenge is enacted within a work of art, before the helpless eyes of a museum curator… Suitable for ages 13+. almatavernandtheatre.co.uk
Snowdrops in the Garden
n 14 & 15 February, 10am-5pm
Yeo Valley Organic Garden, Blagdon, BS40 7SQ
The Yeo Valley Organic Garden gates will reopen early this year to show you the swathes of common snowdrops and other spring delights carpeting the six-and-a-half acre garden as part of the Shepton Snowdrop Festival. The café and shop will be open and the log fire will be lit in the café. Price is £8 per adult ticket. Children £2, and under-2s go free. Half of your entrance fee will be donated to the Shepton Snowdrop Project. yeovalley.co.uk
Learn about the Dreamy Dormice of Leigh Woods
Keaton: Go West n 16 February, 9.30am Watershed, BS1 5TX
Buster Keaton is both touching and funny in this spoof cowboy film as Friendless, a hapless soul who decides to try his hand at cattle ranching after failing to find a big city job. Look out for cameos from Buster’s dad Joe, Fatty Arbuckle, and silent comedy stalwart Babe London – and you can’t miss Brown Eyes, Buster’s bovine leading lady who he personally hand-picked and trained for the film (while also writing and directing!). With live accompaniment from members of the European Silent Screen Virtuosi led by Günter A. Buchwald. Part of Slapstick Festival. watershed.co.uk
Wedding Showcase
n 27 February, 5.30pm
SS Great Britain
Explore the historic venue transformed into a stunning wedding setting and meet a handpicked selection of premier suppliers offering everything from exquisite florals to bespoke photography. Whether you’re envisioning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, this showcase is the perfect opportunity to find inspiration and start planning your perfect day. Your ticket includes an arrival drink and canapé. Tickets are free, but booking is essential. ssgreatbritain.org
Looking ahead..
Grand Tour of Italty
n 1 March, 7pm
St George’s Bristol, BS1 5RR
Join Exultate Singers and the internationally-renowned instrumentalists of His Majestys Sagbutts & Cornetts for a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Renaissance Italy, showcasing a wide array of sacred and secular works from cathedrals, convents, and courts across the peninsula. The programme includes rarely-performed, expressive and flamboyant music by the 17th-century female composers
Chiara Cozzolani and Rafaella Aleotti.
Tickets £16 to £28 from St George’s Bristol on 0117 929 4929 or online at stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
Bristol Classical Players presents BEETHOVEN+: 2
n 8 March, 7.30pm
St George’s Bristol, BS1 5RR
Bristol Classical Players’s 15th anniversary series BEETHOVEN+ (all nine Beethoven symphonies over five concerts, each including a new work by a composer from the Bristol area) continues with Nos 2 and 7. The evening begins with a performance of Dream Sequence: A Life on Repeat by Liam O’Connell. Tickets from £16. stgeorgesbristol.co.uk
Buster Keaton in Go West
Family Diary
Our pick of the best things to see and do with the little ones this month
Lunar New Year
n 8 & 9 February, 10am until 4pm
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Join the museum for a joyful celebration to usher in Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival. This exciting weekend is filled with a variety of activities for all ages, including captivating music, martial arts, lion dances and a snake trail adventure. Get creative with hands-on crafts, learn about Chinese and East Asian heritage, and take a selfie with roving pandas. bristolmuseums.org.uk
Goldfinch and Young Bristol Charity Fundraiser
n 8 February at 10am, 12pm & 2pm
Goldfinch Create and Play, Canford Lane, Westbury-on-Trym
Goldfinch is celebrating its first anniversary, and has partnered with charity Young Bristol to raise funds for its inspiring work. Join them for a day of creativity and connection with a mindful weaving workshop where your creativity will be inspired by – and inspire – love. Craft a hand-made woven card and post it off to someone special to let them know you're thinking about them. Workshops are free, booking is needed and donations are encouraged. Book your spot online at goldfinchcreateandplay.co.uk
WALL•E at The Planetarium
n 14 February, 6.30pm until 8.40pm
We The Curious, Millennium Square, BS1 5SZ
This Valentine’s Day, Bristol Film Festival is presenting another screening of the perennial Festival favourite WALL•E. This delightful sci-fi misadventure is both an epic voyage into humanity’s future, and a nod to silent comedy cinema. It’s perfect for a date night, or for the entire family. Explore The Planetarium’s space gallery 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. bristolfilmfestival.com
Acting Out workshop
n 19 February, 10am until 3pm
Bristol Hippodrome
Children aged 6-15 can join Bristol Hippodrome’s Creative Learning Team in the exploration of acting training. Beginning with the fundamentals, participants will gain experience of key acting skills through games, challenges and fun! Please note the event takes place in a room with stair access. Book your spot online. atgtickets.com/bristol
Pirates Love Underpants
n 21 February 4pm & 22-23 February 10.30am & 1.30pm
Redgrave Theatre
These pirates SO love underpants! Join a swashbuckling party of pirates on their quest to find the fabled Pants of Gold for the Captain’s Treasure chest! Dodge hungry crocs beneath Long-John Bridge, bob upon the waves of Big Knickers Bay, spot sharks in fancy underpants and trek across Three Pants Ridge. Filled with music, puppetry and glittering pants of gold, arrr you ready to set sail for a family adventure? Based on the beloved book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. Suitable for children aged 1+. redgravetheatre.com
Minibeast Mansions
n Throughout February
We The Curious, Millennium Square, BS1 5SZ
You will learn about how insects and minibeasts behave in winter, where they might find shelter, avoid predators and raise their young in a hands-on activity. Then you can use this learning to build a bug hotel to take home! This is a drop-in activity included in your day ticket, please check times on arrival. Advance booking is advised during school holidays. wethecurious.org
Forest Walkies with Wallace & Gromit at Westonbirt
n Throughout February
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, GL8 8QS
Join Wallace & Gromit for the ultimate forest walkies. Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic challenges together, solve crossword clues and have lots of fun along the way – with everyone’s favourite dog and owner duo for company. Follow the route using the OS Maps app to find a series of panels. Each one has a fun challenge for you and your dog to take on and a crossword clue for you to solve. More info on route timings and suitability can be found online. forestryengland.uk/westonbirt
Disco Tobogganing
n Every evening from sunset until 23 February
Mendip Activity Centre, BS25 5PQ
Give your winter adventures a glow-up! Boogie on down to Tobogganing, Disco-pop tunes, and fun photo opportunities. Zip down the open-air all-weather slope decorated with funky lights and run back up again to a soundtrack of Disco classics and modern pop music sure to brighten the winter days. mendip.co.uk
Image: WALL•E (credit: Disney Pixar Studios)
School of
Graff
Simon Horsford visits prolific local graffiti artist, muralist and graffiti workshop facilitator Tommy the Vandalist in his Somerset studio for a masterclass in the culture and history behind street art, and a deep dive into Bristol’s role in empowering the people behind the spray cans
Given their roots in 1970s New York, graffiti and street art have always had distinctly urban associations. So it’s quite the contrast to be deep in the Somerset countryside on a frosty winter morning and be surrounded by a collection of spray-painted and graffiti-strewn old cars, buses, shipping containers and even a boat. Whitelake Park is a creative space and “artists’ playground” in Pylle, near Shepton Mallet, where, behind a sliding black entry gate, lies a colourfully alternative environment (it’s also one of the entrance points for the Glastonbury Festival). I’m here to meet the graffiti artist and muralist Tommy the Vandalist. No surnames in this world.
“ Graffiti and street art are two separate things ”
Tommy has a studio here, a large, converted, former NHS x-ray truck and more recently the crew lorry for a marquee company. It’s cold and condensation drips from the ceiling as I survey his lair: trays of spray paints and paint pens in a variety of colours and lots of paint masks. Tommy is both an artist – his work can primarily be seen at various AirHop trampoline park venues (such as at Bristol, Blackpool and Warwick) and he collaborates with the Carhenge team at Glastonbury (of which more later) – and a graffiti teacher, who runs classes for kids and adults in Bristol and at Whitelake.
First off, I want to grasp the difference between street art and graffiti. “Graffiti and street art are two separate things,” says Tommy, “graffiti started in 1970s New York with the rise of the hip hop movement. The four elements were: graffiti, break dancing, rapping and DJ’ing. And graffiti artists were very much into that. Then people like Banksy and
other artists and muralists [came along] and they would consider that [version] to be street art and not graffiti, because it doesn’t stick to the values of what that [particular] underground movement considered graffiti. They would consider graffiti as tagging, throw-ups or pieces [these denote and are defined by the size and intricacy and complexity of the lettering, which, in turn, would be a particular artist’s stylised
“It’s all about the characters and being as prolific as possible,” says Tommy “and creating a name and styles within letters and even letter styles themselves. There are rules to it.” Essentially street art is seen as being more formal and can utilise a variety of mediums, whereas, Tommy adds: “the legality of it comes in to the mix too with graffiti tending towards the illegal” – so spray-painting in an unauthorised location.
Tommy runs regular workshops
Sub(way)culture
In many ways, the art form gained initial prominence with the publication of the seminal photographic book Subway Art by Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant in 1984. It documented numerous aspects of the art on the New York subway system – its origins and history, styles and techniques, vocabulary and conventions. Often referred to as the “bible of graffiti”, it is claimed that at one time, it was one of the most frequently stolen books in Britain.
The book, adds Tommy, was one of the reasons, apart from the music (from the likes of Grandmaster Flash, Run DMC and Public Enemy) that graffiti and street art crossed the Atlantic.
And Bristol played a key part in that transfer with many, Tommy says, tracing the roots of the city’s – and Britain’s – street art scene back to John Nation’s Art Project at Barton Hill Youth Centre in the mid Eighties. Nation was a youth worker at the centre, known as the “Dug Out”, and he encouraged budding artists (including the likes of Banksy, Inkie and Cheo) to spray paint its walls. The centre (most recently a boxing club) is now up for sale, but it’s still home to what is said to be the oldest surviving Banksy, Poodle Bulldog. Nation now runs the Where the Wall tours around Bristol.
It was, adds Tommy, 31, and so too young to be part of Barton Hill, “a cultural hub where people would come and draw and paint.” He also taps into what it is about graffiti that gives it a rebellious feel. “It is a way for youth to feel heard and be creative, while being a bit anti-establishment.” For some men too, adds Tommy, it is a way to be artistically inventive
but also “cool and masculine.” He adds, however, that it is far from exclusively male, as Tommy references numerous female graffiti artists, including in Bristol, RBF, an all-girl crew.
That idea of freedom has also been cited by one-time street artist Robert Del Naja, who as 3D went on to be a founding member of Massive Attack giving the art form further reach. In a video interview last year on the art blog Inspiring City, he talked about being rejected by an art school and reacting by “wanting to express myself” but on his terms. Street art and graffiti, he continued, are about “free expression” and can give “an amazing feeling of achievement”. The video includes grainy footage of him in the 1980s creating an image of Robert De Niro from Taxi Driver on Lower Park Row.
Another prominent street artist back in the day was the musician, producer and DJ Goldie, who last year (2024) marked 30 years of his MetalHeadz drum and bass label by bringing together some of the original pioneers of street art from Bristol, New York, London and Paris from the 1980s and ‘90s to paint a 200ft mural by the IKEA car park in Eastville with giant letters spelling out the words Mighty Headz; the work celebrates the label, together with Bristol landmarks and the New York skyline.
Fine-tuning his craft
Born in Frome, where he still lives after a 10-year spell in Bristol, Tommy’s route to graffiti was more conventional – doing a foundation course in fine art at Trowbridge College before graduating with a first-
Carhenge at Glastonbury (Tommy pictured here with his son Theo)
Example of Tommy’s murals at AirHop
class Honours degree from UWE Bristol. “I was always creative and artistic and drawing even before I picked up graffiti. And that came very much from hanging out at skate parks. I was never any good at it [skateboarding] as I was top heavy”, Tommy says laughing, “but my friends were really good and when we discovered graffiti, it turns out I was quite good at it and it soon became my thing.” He admits they tried to drum out his graffiti tendencies at university, but luckily he persisted and the fine art course allowed him to develop a range of skills, including looking at zen calligraphy.
“ Not everyone can pick up a can or pen and do a handwritten word ”
The “bread and butter work” comes from his commissions at AirHop and he does private work too (ranging from a vintage car restoration garage in Westbury to cartoon characters on kids’ bedroom walls). However another intriguing avenue has been working with artist Joe Rush at Glastonbury’s Carhenge. “I work with him as a painter and there’s crew of about 30. [Last] year was the second year it was built as Carhenge [a version of Stonehenge made up of 24 mutilated classic cars] before that it was Cinema Armageddon and the cars were out in a field with a massive cinema screen and people would sit in them and watch the film. Now they’ve been piled up like Stonehenge. They are all beautiful American cars [Cadillacs and Chevys].” Held together with concrete and metal poles, the whole extraordinary operation is reassembled every year.
Finding your ‘handstyle’
You can sense Tommy’s skill and passion at one of his workshops for adults and kids (my 12-year-old daughter went to one with a friend last year and loved it) and which he has held in St Werburghs, Bristol, for the past three years. I wonder how easy it is to master?
“Not everyone can pick up a can or a pen and do a handwritten word – it’s called handstyle – it’s a craft that takes people years to hone. Picking up a spray can and learning to use it is like learning to draw again with such subtleties as creating thin lines and details [you get varying nozzle sizes on the spray cans depending on your requirements].”
Tommy also runs longer courses at Whitelake Park – “in September, I organised a graffiti festival here for 40 artists.” This year, they’ll be back again going over the work they did last time.
As for influences, Tommy says “American and Canadian were the main ones, such as Cope2 and T Kid. Then there were films like Style Wars (about the birth of hip hop). Locally it would be Goldie, Inkie and 3D.” Outside of graffiti, Tommy mentions the work of Jackson Pollock and Franz Kline, artists who went against the grain.
As to the future, he’s aiming to be in the studio more frequently (he has another workshop at the Welsh Mill Hub in Frome) as he tries to balance doing commissions and just being an artist.
“I think a lot of people in a similar situation struggle to find that balance between supporting a family and staying true to their beliefs as an artist. My most recent work is corporate street art, but my roots lie in the foundations of hip hop and graffiti culture. I aim to explore my own history working in different worlds from corporate and festivals to fine art and graffiti and I’m also expressing this in a new line of work on canvas.”
There’s a sense of fun to Tommy the Vandalist’s graffiti, which steers clear of politics unlike some of his contemporaries (“some people will use it to voice an opinion, there’s a lot of Palestinian work being done in Bristol,” he adds), but that makes his art all the more accessible as an artist and a teacher and what’s more, he’s all about sharing his passion, skills and spraying the word. n
Follow Tommy the Vandalist on Instagram @vandalist_murals and for updates on his upcoming workshops, which are available to book via Yuup, follow @theschoolofgraff on Instagram.
Tommy the Vandalist
shares his top five graffiti spots across the city
The enchanted woodland mural, by Stivs and Vandalist, at Mina Road, St Werburghs (opposite Sonni’s Food & Wine)
Thirty years of MetalHeadz mural, IKEA car park, Eastville
Nelson Street hosted a See No Evil paint jam in 2012 and the murals can still be seen adorning multiple buildings
Dean Lane skate park is a hotspot for graffiti with a constant resurgence of new artwork
The St Werburghs tunnel is a “legally grey area” where artists feel safe to regularly meet and paint; constantlychanging murals as different artists come and go
Expert opinion
From Chris Yeo, Valuer at Clevedon Salerooms and regular expert on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow
Conscious Clay
Very occasionally there comes along an artist of such skill and insight that their work resonates across the decades. One such man was Sam Haile (1909-1948), but the chances are you have never heard of him.
Had he lived longer, Haile would arguably have become one of the greatest artist potters of his generation. But fate intervened and he was tragically killed at the age of just 39.
Although his star shone brightly and all too briefly during his lifetime, the decades following his death saw Haile largely forgotten. Now, the current exhibition at the Stradling Gallery is set to right that wrong, celebrating his talent and introducing Haile to a new audience.
Haile was one of a small group of British painters who, in the 1930s ventured into the world of Continental Surrealism. He found little sympathy from his teachers at the Royal College of Art who regarded the
new art movement with a mixture of suspicion and ridicule. Undeterred, Haile turned to pottery, using the decoration of his pots as a sort of Trojan Horse for his Surrealist-infused art, which soon gained the attention and approval of those who had previously written it off.
Haile’s work was often tied to his inner frailties. Strong and unsettling themes are never far away, including the threat of Fascism, depression and sexuality.
But alongside this there is also ample light, seen in Haile’s fascination with mysticism and folklore, and the clear affinities his work shares with the work of Picasso, his near contemporary.
When war intervened, Haile – a committed pacifist – set off for a new life, teaching pottery in the United States with his wife Marianne de Trey, a notable potter in her own right. Returning to England, the couple set up studio in Dartington, and it was near there that Haile lost his life when the car he was driving, laden with pottery, crashed on a country road.
One of the most poignant pieces in the exhibition is a large, vigorously decorated dish that was salvaged from the wreckage. Repaired by his widow, it wears the scars of the collision which killed its maker.
For anyone who thought pottery was about brown mugs, a visit to the exhibition will definitely be an eye-opener.
Conscious Clay is at the Stradling Gallery, 48 Park Row, Bristol until June 29. ■
Further details at tradlingcollection.org; clevedonsalerooms.com; @chrisyeo_antiques (Instagram)
Alice Fearn as Heidi Hansen
Lauren Conroy as Zoe Murphy and Sonny Monaghan as Evan Hansen
Helen Anker as Cynthia Murphy
The moment of truth
We hear from two stars of Dear Evan Hansen, the Tony, Olivier and Grammy Award‐winning musical arriving at Bristol Hippodrome 11‐15 February. Alice Fearn and Helen Anker speak to Liam Rudden about bringing this remarkable tale of mental health struggles and the importance of telling the truth to the UK stage
When West End star Alice Fearn (pictured top left)
first heard the haunting score of the smash hit musical Dear Evan Hansen, she was hooked. The actor, best known for landmark roles such as Elphaba in Wicked and Captain Beverley Bass in Come From Away, recalls, “When Dear Evan Hansen started in America, it was one of those productions that released the album before the show had actually opened. That album quickly became a phenomenon over here too, everyone was listening to it.”
It was around that time Fearn was first contacted about possibly playing Heidi Hansen, Evan’s mother, the role she currently plays in the UK tour of the production.
Fearn explains, “I actually auditioned for the role when the show was coming to London in 2019. I’d like to think I was far too young at the time as they said, ‘No, no, no…’ to me playing the mum. Although I didn’t get the part then, that was my introduction to Heidi and I did get to grips with the script during that audition process.”
Now 40, Fearn is “dipping her toes” into what she calls the start of her “mother era,” something she is enjoying immensely. “I’m known for singing big massive roles but if someone asked me to go back and do Wicked now I don’t think I would because, at 40, I don’t have the energy I had at 33. It’s not that I don’t want to, I just don’t think the experience would be the same. I base jobs on their enjoyment factor, which includes the people I’m working with. In Dear Evan Hansen everyone is absolutely adorable, the cast are lovely and funny, we all share the same work/fun ethic, there is a great team behind the scenes and a fantastic band, all these things make this a good job.”
Mental health matters
Dear Evan Hansen is the story of Evan, an anxious high school kid who wants nothing more than to fit in. When a classmate Connor Murphy, himself struggling with drug abuse and depression, scrawls his name across the cast on Evan’s broken arm, it is assumed that Connor and Evan must have been close friends when, a short time later Connor takes his own life. It’s a deceit Evan initially goes along with, and as events spiral and the truth comes out, Evan faces a reckoning with himself and everyone around him.
Joining Fearn in the cast, West End and Broadway star Helen Anker (pictured bottom right) plays the bereaved parent, a role she admits is “incredibly emotional”. Anker, who had watched the 2021 movie of the musical before taking on the role of Cynthia, says, “If you enjoyed the film then you’ll find the stage play has so much more impact. When we first had our first read through of the script I realised just what a strong play it is, the dialogue is so meaty and great to perform, and then, of course, with the music on top of that, it’s phenomenal.”
Fearn chips in to agree, “A lot of people say it’s a play with music and I agree with that but it’s like with the film Jaws, you can’t take away that iconic music as the shark attacks - it’s that ‘da da… da da… da da…’ that elevates the action. And that’s what the music does in Dear Evan Hansen, it’s such a powerful score that the story is elevated by that music, whether
it’s a rock beat, the strings or an acoustic guitar, they all add to the emotional intention of a moment moulding story and music together perfectly.” The emotional nature of the piece is not just confined to the stage, for audiences too it is a heart-wrenching study on the need to belong. “Audiences have been amazing and every audience is different, that is the joy of theatre,” says Anker, adding, “Without exception, you can tell that they are listening and we are so close to them at points that we can actually see they are crying. The subject matter is close to so many people’s lives, especially if they have, or have had teenagers affected by it. That’s the great thing about parents and children coming to watch the show together, it allows them to open that conversation and if by doing that we help just one person every show, we’ve done our job.”
Hope shines through
At its heart, however, Dear Evan Hansen retains an important vein of hope, as Fearn is keen to highlight. “We are not trying to sugar coat life. People go through times where they feel like they don’t have a place in the world and parents do struggle. So, even if you don’t recognise yourself in these characters, chances are you will recognise people you might know because these are real people and real problems all around us in society right now. That’s why, at the end of the piece, the idea of hope is so important; like these characters, while we might be going through the darkest period of our lives, there’s always a way to find a place in the world where we can live for tomorrow.”
While Anker is enjoying the challenges of her role, she confesses she is “loving” the break from not having “the pressure of leading” a production. Having trained at the Royal Ballet School, she also smiles as she reveals, “It’s actually the first musical I’ve ever done where I don’t have to dance. What is lovely is that I get to act and that’s my favourite thing now. When you lead a show, the pressure that puts on you is enormous, wonderful but enormous. There are times in life when you don’t want to have that anxiety with you every day, when you want to do a show and have a life, and that is what Dear Evan Hansen is for me. I’m loving it.”
Fearn too is loving exploring her maternal side, although in her role things are slightly more complicated, she has not one Evan in her life, but two; Ryan Kopel stars in the production, while at matinees, the role is played by Sonny Monaghan. “Ninety per cent of my scenes are with Evan, so I work with the pair of them a lot during the show. Throughout my career, I have worked with a lot of alternates and they will all have a different rhythm.Their interpretation of those very same lines can be absolute polar opposites and we have that with Ryan and Sonny.”
After a moment's thought she adds, “I haven’t got a different Heidi for each of them, but it is very different when I’m on stage with Ryan to when I’m on stage with Sonny and I love them both. It’s lovely for me to have those different interpretations to interact with, especially as I get both on the same day... I just have to keep up with them.” n
Dear Evan Hansen is at Bristol Hippodrome from 11-15 February. Tickets are available via atgtickets.com/bristol. Words by Liam Rudden, production images taken by Marc Brenner.
Actions speak louder
Visual storytelling at its finest, Ad Infinitum’s Last Rites is currently making its journey around the UK before arriving on Bristol Old Vic’s main stage this summer. Florence Grieve caught up with the Bristol‐based company’s co‐artistic director George Mann about its history, its commitment to championing authentic voices, and what we can expect from its latest production
Ramesh Meyyappan in Last Rites (credit: Mihaela Bodlovic at Manipulate Arts)
Though today it’s a staple of Bristol’s arts and theatre scene, Ad Infinitum’s story began in London. The company was founded in 2007, shortly after co-artistic directors George Mann and Nir Paldi returned from Paris, where the pair had trained at the École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq. George recounts the creative buzz he felt pulsing through the capital at the time, an energy that fuelled their first production, Behind the Mirror. And 18 years later, as George sits across from me at Bristol Old Vic where we’ve met, animatedly describing the journey so far, it’s clear this passion for creating compelling theatre is as strong as ever.
In the early days, the company worked one production at a time until it started to gain momentum. George tells me: “We went to Edinburgh Festival and we started to make a bit of a name for ourselves. Around 2009, we started to ask some more profound questions like, ‘What is this company? What do we stand for? What are we trying to do here?’ We started to understand more about ourselves as artists, where we wanted to go, what other types of artists we wanted to work with and what impact we wanted to have.”
It’s clear that the company has real heart and this ethos runs through everything it does. As George explains, Ad Infinitum is “a place where artists collaborate through devising but it’s also a place for artists that come from marginalised places like Nir and I do. We create a new space for that, that’s not just exciting and artistic and collaborative, but is also a safe space. A space where there is wellbeing baked in to what we do, a space where people feel supported and can do their best work.” Echoing the sentiment of his co-artistic director, Nir writes, “Collaboration is at the heart of what we do as an organisation and the sense of connectedness to other creatives within the arts community is a huge part of what keeps us going.”
Accessibility all areas
Just one example of this dedication to collaboration and supporting creatives across the industry, can be found in Ad Infinitum’s long history of working with Deaf artists. Notable collaborations include Light, and Extraordinary Wall [of Silence], the latter of which was made into a feature film for international screening. As a Deaf person myself, I’m keen to know how working with Deaf creatives has influenced and inspired how the company works.
George tells me how accessibility has become just part of what they do: “A lot of our shows integrate Deaf artists, featuring British Sign Language [BSL] and captions, and if they don’t, we create a BSLintegrated version of the show and provide captions, something we did for Beautiful Evil Things.”
In order to be able to enjoy the theatre, I know first-hand the importance of the industry adopting inclusive practices until it becomes the norm. And it is clear Ad Infinitum is committed to carrying the torch for access in the arts; George tells me how the company hopes to “normalise it [accessibility] and hopefully set an example to the rest of the sector.”
Another way in which the company’s approach has been influenced by these collaborations, is a recognition of the barriers and lack of opportunity for Sign Language Using theatre artists, in particular directors who are Deaf, in a hearing-dominated theatre sector. In
response, Ad Infinitum consulted with five celebrated Deaf artists to produce a report, published in both written English and BSL, highlighting barriers to the industry, including lack of opportunities, and existing opportunities usually being brief with insufficient funding and resources. Describing the consultation and co-design process George explains how “the outcome was a programme which meets artists’ needs because we asked them what they need.”
This programme, Changing Direction, has created the role of associate director, which is currently filled by theatre facilitator, director, writer and BSL storyteller Mary-Jayne Russell de Clifford. Another newly created role of Associate Artist has been set up to support a theatremaker from an underrepresented background, which will be originated by writer and performer Elisabeth Gunawan.
Images: Top, George Mann; middle, No Kids production (credit Alex Brenner); bottom, Ad Infinitum acting masterclass at Bristol Old Vic (credit Jack Offord)
Of this, Nir writes: “Since 2020, in response to the challenges the sector has faced and continues to face, we embarked on two years of extensive consultation with freelance theatre makers, and a pilot working with two brilliant artists exploring the potential structure and aims for a new artist-led programme at Ad Infinitum.” It’s clear from both Nir and George that the company are excited to be offering opportunities which have been developed with artists, for artists.
Rites of passage
Our conversation turns to Ad Infinitum’s latest production Last Rites, which has been co-devised by George, and Scottish-Singaporean theatremaker and Deaf artist Ramesh Meyyappan. The duo’s creative partnership was 10 years in the making because, although they knew from their first meeting in 2010 that they wanted to work together, it took time for the opportunity to arise. But it was worth the wait. When they started the creative process, George recalls how “we connected around two personal themes, one was losing our dads and the other was that we’d both become dads.”
A non-verbal solo show, it tells the story of Arjun, a Deaf man who has to travel from the UK to India to perform his father’s funeral rights. He comes up against the challenge of performing an ancient Hindu practice that was never passed on because his father refused to learn sign language. We see Arjun grappling with how to say goodbye to his own father amidst the challenge of becoming a dad himself. The show stars Ramesh who performs as intergenerational characters throughout the performance, supported by projection, bass-heavy sound design and physical storytelling, as well as some BSL and creative captions, to create
a piece that is accessible to Deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing audiences.
As we chat about what audiences can expect from the production, there is only a brick wall separating us from where Last Rites will return from its national tour to enjoy a week long run later this year. As George gestures towards the Georgian auditorium, which has been home to many a critically-acclaimed performance, it is clear that this main stage billing is a milestone the company is rightly proud of. As George and Ramesh write: “We are delighted this piece will tour nationally to midscale venues, where historically underrepresented perspectives like those of our protagonist, Arjun, haven’t been given much stage time.”
And what is it that time in the spotlight will allow the production to impart to audiences? “We found ourselves creating a play that’s a universal human story, but through a Deaf perspective,” the pair write.
“The experience of losing a parent and becoming one is hard to describe. Theatre feels like the right medium to explore this experience, a space that we hope will provoke audiences to think, connect, and share their own stories.”
It’s clear that what Ad Infinitum stands for can be found in its sense of connection woven throughout the company and its collaborations across the sector. As we are saying our goodbyes, George checks that even though it’s just him I’m meeting today, he won’t get all the credit, but he needn’t say more, throughout our conversation it’s been clear that Ad Infinitum is greater than the sum of all its parts, and this fuels a creativity which translates into the powerhouse performances we see on stage. n
Last Rites arrives at Bristol Old Vic from 15-19 July; for tickets and more information visit bristololdvic.org.uk
Images: Top left, Beautiful Evil Things (credit Camilla Adams); top right, Last Rites (credit: Mihaela Bodlovic at Manipulate Arts); bottom left, Until I Found You (credit: Ulises Avilá); bottom right, acting masterclass at Bristol Old Vic (credit: Jack Offord)
ARTand the galleries
Last chance to see Rinko Kawauchi at Arnolfini Showing until 16 February
Celebrating more than 20 years of extraordinary practice, internationally-acclaimed 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’.
16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA arnolfini.org.uk
Susie Fitzsimmons Solo Exhibition, Southville, 8-12 February (from 11am until 7pm)
Susie Fitzsimmons is showing a large, vibrant solo exhibition of her paintings and drawings throughout her home in Southville (BS3 1NX). This enjoyable eclectic collection, in both subject, media, style, and scale is held together by theme and careful hanging. Each space is dedicated to the theme’s title, visible upon entry. So too, Work in Progress. The five rooms and their adjoining spaces show: ‘Climate Fair and Foul’; ‘People I Know and Wish to Have Known’; ‘Aspects of the figure’; ‘Still Life’; ‘The Land and its Workers’; ‘The Uneasy Room’ and ‘Musicians playing’. The strength and vitality of Mexico and its people are dominant throughout her work. Susie says of her work: “I often couch dark imbalances in the world with plant forms... vegetables!” 115 Stackpool Road, BS3 1NX; susiefitz.com
Image: The Loving Courgette by Susie Fitzsimmons
RWA Biennial Open 2025: Paper Works
On now until 27 April
Paper Works, the RWA’s Biennial exhibition, is all about paper. Selected from an open submission, it celebrates paper as a surface for drawing and printmaking, and as a sculptural material. Paper is the star of the show, revealing itself in many different guises. Handmade paper, different types of Japanese tissue, papier maché and paper pulp are just some of the materials being used to create drawings, paintings, sculpture and architectural models. A ticket for this exhibition also gives you entry into Paule Vézelay: Living Lines.
rwa.org.uk; Queen’s Road, Clifton, BS8 1PX
Mirror of Mirth: Satire in Georgian Bath at the Victoria Art Gallery, Bath - showing until 21 April
Step into the scandalous world of Georgian Bath with Mirror of Mirth, a brand-new exhibition at Bath’s Victoria Art Gallery. See more than 200 of the gallery’s finest satirical artworks, including the humorous works of Thomas Rowlandson, John Nixon, and other artists of the era. Mirror of Mirth runs until 21 April. Find out more at victoriagal.org.uk
Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge St, Bath BA2 4AT
Image: The Comforts of Bath: The Artist by Thomas Rowlandson
Wildlife Photographer of the Year 60, on until 27 April 2025
An unmissable exhibition at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery showcasing 100 stunning images that capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world. 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. The world-renowned exhibition, now in its 60th year, is on loan from the Natural History Museum in London. Tickets from £5 to £10.
Buy now at bristolmuseums.org.uk
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Queens Road, BS8 1RL
Limetree Gallery, on display until 1 March
Bringing together a delightful mix of work by a good cross section of gallery artists, the current exhibition aims to entice and excite. Paintings from large to small, ranging from the traditional to the modern, the figurative to the abstract. Featuring new work by gallery favourites such as Peter Wileman, Sylvia Paul, Michael Clark and Philip Richardson with lovely ceramics by Jane Kite.
Image: William Fortescue, Wildlife Photographer of the Year
WPossible Inheritance Tax Solution
BY RON PRINGLE Beau Nash Antiques
ith the arrival of the new government, many are reconsidering their financial strategies, particularly when it comes to inheritance tax. While silver has long been appreciated for its beauty, its potential as an investment is increasingly coming into focus. Largely due to its use in industry and fuelled by the growth of the renewable energies & medical sectors, silver has grown over 85% in the last 5 years, and 21.5% in the past year alone. This makes silver an interesting option for those exploring ways to manage inheritance tax.
A recent customer story illustrates this. A gentleman visited our shop and was captivated by a beautiful George I wine ewer, which I’d been researching extensively. The piece, steeped in history and fine craftsmanship, highlights the enduring appeal of silver. Five years ago, a similar ewer sold in auction for £2,000; today, its value has doubled to £4,000, reflecting the upward trend in silver prices. He purchased the ewer as a gift for his teenage son, combining practicality with a personal touch. Unlike cash, silver can offer more than just financial value — it’s tangible, beautiful, and can be enjoyed in everyday life.
The government’s approach to inheritance tax has made many people turn to tangible assets as a way to preserve and grow wealth across generations. Silver stands out for its dual benefits: as a collectible that carries historical and aesthetic significance and as an asset that appreciates in value. It’s a strategy that aligns both financial foresight and personal enjoyment.
Of course, a word of caution: silver, like gold, can fluctuate in value. And for any gift to be inheritance tax-free, you need to ensure they meet the seven-year rule—assuming, of course, you kept track of the purchase date. But as financial landscapes evolve, silver remains a compelling option for those seeking to protect wealth while enjoying its beauty and legacy.
No financial advice here—just some food for thought! beaunashbath.com; info@beaunashbath.com; www.antiquesilver.shop 07535137808 @beaunashbath
Living Lines
Work by Bristol‐born artist Paule Vézelay, an underappreciated pioneer of British modernism is on show at the Royal West of England Academy, the first major exhibition of her art in more than 40 years
The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is currently home to the first major exhibition of Bristol-born female artist Paule Vézelay’s work in over 40 years, offering an unprecedented insight into the artist’s accomplished sevendecade career. Featuring over 60 works from private and public collections, including examples of her best-known paintings and sculptures alongside rarely-exhibited textiles, Paule Vézelay: Living Lines (on until 27 April) seeks to rightly afford the artist’s place within the history of British and European Modernism.
Avante-garde ambition
The exhibition reveals how she became a prominent figure within the European avant-garde, working alongside some of the most significant artists of pre-war Paris, including Alexander Calder, Sophie TaeuberArp, Jean Arp, Marlow Moss, Wassily Kandinsky and André Masson.
As well as bringing together examples of Vézelay’s best-known paintings and sculptures, such as Object in Three Dimensions (1935) and Construction. Grey Lines on Pink Ground (1938) from the Tate Collection, the exhibition will feature several works which have not been publicly exhibited before, including Composition Objects and Sun (1930) and Eight Curved Forms and Two Circles (1946).
Born in Bristol in 1892, Vézelay (born Marjorie Watson-Williams) made her first visit to Paris in 1920, where she was captivated by the energy of the city. In 1926 she settled there, changing her name the following year to reflect her new life in the international art scene. Living Lines begins by tracing the formative period of her career, bringing together important examples of her early figurative illustrations, drawings, watercolours such as Bristol Hippodrome (1918-19), and linocuts such as Bathers (1923) to reveal the development of her artistic style.
Rightfully recognised
The show’s curator Simon Grant, who became familiar with Vézelay’s work while working for Tate, explains that he was inspired to put Living Lines together “not just because she’s an incredible artist, but because she’s very underrated… She deserves to be far better known.” The reasons behind Vézelay remaining something of a hidden gem are complex, with Simon suspecting it was “partly misogyny, and partly timing; she became a really important international artist, but then the war broke out.”
After the outbreak of the Second World War, Vézelay returned to England from Paris, where she spent time in Bristol and London (Grant suspects that “she struggled to reintegrate slightly”), and although never granted official war artist status, made a number of drawings of barrage balloons and war damage in and around Bristol. After briefly returning to Paris post war, she eventually settled in London, and made intense efforts to revitalise abstraction in British art by forming a London branch of Group Espace, the avant-garde artistic movement. Alongside her
Paule Vézelay in her London studio with her 1955 textile Harmony (left) and her 1956 painting The Yellow Circle (right), photograph, Estate of Paule Vézelay
paintings and sculpture, she also produced an extraordinary range of little-known textiles from the late 1940s and 1950s for brands, including Heal’s, a selection of which are on display within the exhibition.
Beyond boundaries
Uncompromising and clear-sighted in her artistic ambitions, Paule Vézelay continued to push creative boundaries throughout her long career. This exhibition, accompanied by the first major publication on her work, Paule Vézelay: Living Lines, aims to deepen our understanding and appreciation of one of Britain’s most significant 20th-century artists.
“I admire her constant experimentation and unwavering self-belief,” explains Grant. “There’s always a connection to nature in her work. She was deeply inspired by organic forms, which stemmed from her upbringing in Bristol – walking along the Avon, exploring the Downs, and spending time in Somerset. She even went fishing with her father.
“While she didn’t want to make this connection to nature overly explicit it underpinned so much of what she created, and it’s one of the reasons I find her work so beautiful.”
Grant continues, “We hope this exhibition and the accompanying publication will introduce Vézelay’s groundbreaking work to new generations. She was a fascinating person, and her art radiates joy. I hope many people from Bristol and beyond will come to see it. Uncovering new works has been a revelation for me, and there are so many incredible stories from her life. I hope the exhibition captures that and allows audiences to experience her extraordinary journey.” n
Paule Vézelay: Living Lines is at the RWA until 27 April; for more information visit rwa.org.uk
Recommendations by Tom Bleathman from The Great Wine Co.
Based in McLaren Vale, Australia, d’Arenberg is one of the country’s most highly regarded wineries, easily recognised by their iconic red stripe across each of their bottles. Led by the charismatic fourth-generation winemaker Chester Osborn, d’Arenberg offers a wide range of outstanding wines, from light whites to their renowned heavier reds. February is the perfect time to try d’Arenberg’s wines, currently on offer at The Great Wine Co. greatwine.co.uk
Dry Dam Riesling 2023 d’Arenberg
This slightly off-dry Riesling is perfect for those dreaming of a warm summer’s day. With aromas of orange, ripe green apple and lime, partnered with fresh minerality. On the palate, the wine is crisp with lovely fresh acidity.
Olive Grove Chardonnay 2022 d'Arenberg
Named after the olive trees which block their harvester on the vineyards, this is a superb example of easy-going Australian Chardonnay. Fragrant with nectarine and green apple, roasted nuts, and vanilla. On the palate, it is wonderfully textured and has a lovely, savoury finish.
Dead
Laughing Magpie 2018 d’Arenberg
The name Laughing Magpie refers to the Kookaburra, which is a native Australian bird famous for its distinctive laughing call. Chester’s young daughters always affectionately called them ‘laughing magpies’. This wine is predominantly made up of Shiraz, but a small amount of the white grape, Viognier (another nod to the magpie) is also added to help increase the wine’s aromatics. This wine is full of blackberry, plum and a hint of pepper, and has a wonderful silky texture. Brilliant now, but this will age fantastically over the next 5-10 years.
Arm Shiraz 2018 d’Arenberg
The Dead Arm Shiraz is the icon wine of the estate, and it’s easy to see why. This powerhouse of a wine has aromas of blackberry, plums and spice, all wrapped up in dark chocolate. On the palate, this is intense and silky with a lengthy finish. This showstopper is still young and will age superbly over 10-15 years. n
Bristol
Popular tasting menu concept branches out to centre this month
Six by Nico is opening its first venue in the heart of Bristol in February at Quakers Friars. Guests can expect to indulge in the restaurant’s ever-evolving six-course tasting menu concept that changes every six weeks and showcases local suppliers. Each menu is inspired by a destination, memories and creative storytelling.
Since opening the first Six by Nico in Glasgow in 2017, owner and chef Nico Simeone (pictured above) had one ultimate goal: to bring an accessible tasting menu experience to more people, blending creative dining with an affordable price point.
Customers can experience Six by Nico’s offering for £44 per person, with paired wine and cocktail menus (alcohol and no-alcohol options included) available for an additional cost.
For the latest updates head to the website sixbynico.co.uk
Local nutritionist pens new book
Sarah Bayliss, a registered nutritional therapist based in Bristol specialising in metabolic health, has published a book called Do/ Nourish/ How to eat for resilience.
In this book, she makes complex science beautifully simple and provides a wholefoods framework for nourishing meals that give bodies what they need. Instead of complicated recipes, she suggests small adjustments to your diet: just one thing a week. Highlights include a six-week adaptable plan, advice on building a balanced plate and more, and learning how to use just hands to weigh and measure food. sarahbaylissnutrition.co.uk
Bristol welcomes Chinese Year of the Snake
The Bristol and West of England China Bureau is holding a major celebration to usher in the Chinese Year of the Snake this month. Councillor Andrew Varney, Lord Mayor of Bristol, will join leading figures from the city’s business community at Wong’s Restaurant in Denmark Street for the Chinese New Year banquet on Wednesday 26 February. The bureau’s annual showpiece event is hosted by its chief executive Dianne Francombe, OBE, who said: “Our annual gala banquet brings together civic dignitaries, representatives of businesses and organisations
Independent grocer opens second site in the city
Chaya Veggies, an independent greengrocer and florist operating from Mina Road in St Werbergh’s, has opened a second site in Bristol, this time located on St Michael’s Hill. Founders Martin Ballu and Tom Genge first started trading in 2021, and the second venue will continue to champion local suppliers, including serving coffee from Radical Roasters and locally-baked fresh bread. Follow what the team is up to via its Instagram page @chayaveggies. Image above is of the Mina Road store, credit to Chaya Veggies.
Rude awakening
Our city has countless incredible eateries to choose from, but how much you actually enjoy your meal so often depends on the people around you. With Valentine’s Day around the corner meaning more m‐eals out for many of us, Melissa Blease pulls up a chair to talk us through her worst offenders when it comes to restaurant manners
According to highly-respected global hospitality data analyst SevenRooms, 34% of UK consumers dine out three times per month on average, with those aged between 22-29 dining out at least once a week. One would assume, then, that we all know how to behave when doing so? Hmm…
The concept of ‘table manners’ can just as easily be referred to as being sensitive to those around us, and as much of a vital form of environmental awareness as all the big-hitting environmental awareness responsibilities that (rightly) dominate debates across our domestic and social lives. It’s a sad societal observation, then, that considering how our general behaviour impacts on those around us seems to have become a fusty old concept, lost in the mists of time.
When discussing the topic of modern manners, all too many people begin a whispered observation on the subject along the lines of “call me old fashioned...” or “perhaps I’m getting old...”. But why should anybody feel it necessary to make excuses for noticing that inconsiderate, impolite and/or downright immature behaviour has apparently become socially acceptable in restaurants?
For a list of the worst offenders: read on! But pay heed to this warning: it’s probably best that you don’t read this feature while eating your lunch…
Dress Codes
Grubby rugby kits, sweaty cycling Lycra, filthy flip flops revealing filthy feet, underarm pelt springing out from baggy vests, wet towels still reeking of the swimming pool slung over the back of a chair: they’re all being strutted on the ‘put you off your food’ catwalk going on around us. Oh, and nobody wants to be clouted on the back of their heads by an overstuffed backpack while they’re sipping their wine, either.
Finger lickin’... bad
Slurping, gulping and chomping. Sneezing into hands. Frantically puffing and blowing on forkfuls of hot food. Picking teeth with fingernails. Greedily sucking every last scrap of marrow from bones. Noisy, tonsilrevealing yawns. Belching. Loudly opining, and talking over others who want to join the debate. Scalp (or anywhere!) scratching. Parents who pick babies up to sniff their nappies... yuk! Having digested that list of
Taking your kids to a meal out can be a wonderful experience, but things can easily spiral out of control
obnoxious crimes against social intercourse, people who run their fingers through gravy and salaciously lick their fingers could be said to be committing a comparatively insignificant offence. But they’re not; the whole list is downright disgusting – and happening right now, in restaurants across the land.
Greedy Pigs
There are people out there – and their numbers are legion – who help themselves to food from their fellow diners' plates without being invited to do so. They’re usually the same people who refill wine glasses from a shared bottle because they're drinking faster than the folk they’re supposedly sharing it with and think nothing of asking “are you leaving that?” the moment you put your cutlery down for a break. At the other end of the same spectrum: friends or colleagues who agree to a group dinner date… then order nothing and drink only water; it’s stressful for fellow diners, and rude to the restaurant you’re eating in.
Tech Turmoils
The gentle hum of conversation and soft background music that creates the traditional restaurant soundscape is a beautiful thing. So, when you’re taking a break from the chaos of everyday life, why clutter up a calm, clear restaurant table with phones, iPads and charging leads? And why contribute to the cacophony of ringtones, text alerts and – the worst offender! – groups of diners hosting Facetime get-togethers with remote ‘dinner guests’. Change the tech-addicted algorithm, people!
Sprawl (and Small) Talk
Manspreading males, shoppers who dump carrier bags here, there and everywhere (except beneath their own table), vacant seats randomly pushed into aisles: if you haven’t booked the whole restaurant for private hire, don’t act as though you have. And although it’s lovely to see cross-
generational groups eating out together, letting the kids use the space between tables as a racetrack/hide-and-seek zone, encouraging little people to take over the nearest empty table to use as a colouring-in desk or allowing screaming fits and tantrums to burn themselves out without grown-up intervention (as in, talking quietly to or even taking your screaming child off the premises while the drama is going on) isn’t acceptable behaviour, regardless of how cute the kiddies might be.
Vile Vocabulary
There exists, somewhere embedded deep in our collective consciousness, a rather pleasant exchange between restaurant customer and waiting staff that begins with “Please may I have....” followed by your choice from the menu. So why the heck have people decided that “can I get”, “bring me” and “I’m gonna go for” are better ways to order? Oh, and by the way: your waiter is not your “love”, “darling” or “mate”... and neither them nor your dog should be expected to respond to a finger snap.
“ Diners not showing up for their reservations hit a record high in 2024 ”
Bad Bookings
If you make a booking for a restaurant, you either honour that reservation or let the restaurant know that you can’t make it… simple, right? Apparently not. A survey recently published in The Caterer magazine revealed that the number of diners not showing up for their reservations hit a record high in 2024, with 17% of guests failing to honour bookings or inform venues in advance that they need to cancel. The result? A whopping £17.59billion in lost revenue for the hospitality industry, not accounting for the additional cost of wasted food, wasted staff and a negative effect on staff morale.
Antisocial Media
Everybody makes mistakes – and the vast majority of restaurant owners want to correct mistakes as soon as any hiccups are detected. If the problem concerns a particular dish, raise the issue as soon as you encounter the problem, not when your plate is clean. And if you have a problem with any part of your eating out experience, raise it quietly (and courteously, please!) with the manager of the restaurant at the time of dining, not on a public restaurant review site or your social media channel the next day. n
Do you keep your gadgets on the table when dining out?
O Canada!
Canada can boast that it is among the world’s most breath‐taking travel destinations, offering an unparalleled combination of majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences. So, how do you choose? The team at Miles Morgan Travel is well‐travelled, as you can imagine, and has shared recommendations for Western Canada and Alaska from Travel Specialist Ella‐Louise – versus the view from the East with Manager, Marie
The Rockies: A Jewel of Western Canada
No trip to Western Canada is complete without exploring the Canadian Rockies. Stretching across British Columbia and Alberta, this iconic mountain range offers endless opportunities for all travellers. EllaLouise’s top tips include taking the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer luxury train, from Vancouver to Banff or vice versa, giving travellers a unique way to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes.
The train offers two service levels: Gold Leaf and Silver Leaf, each designed to provide exceptional comfort and gourmet cuisine. Gold Leaf features a bi-level dome coach with unobstructed views from the upper deck, and Ella-Louise recommends the viewing platform for keen photographers (but don’t blink or you might miss the wildlife!), while Silver Leaf has large windows and a more intimate atmosphere.
What sets the Rocky Mountaineer apart is its focus on daylight travel, allowing passengers to be fully immersed in the awe-inspiring scenery. Whether it’s cascading waterfalls, glacier-fed rivers, or towering peaks. This train journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Canada’s natural beauty, making it a bucket-list adventure worth taking.
Ella-Louise loved her visit to the Banff National Park – one of the crown jewels of Western Canada, with stunning alpine scenery, turquoise glacial lakes and abundant wildlife. Staying in Banff, visitors can marvel at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two of the most photographed spots in Canada. Whether you’re paddling a canoe across the serene waters or hiking the surrounding trails, the beauty of these lakes is unforgettable. Jasper, located further north, provides a more rugged and remote experience. En route from Banff to Jasper, visit the Columbia Ice field, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. Tourists can walk on
the Athabasca Glacier or take in panoramic views from the Glacier Skywalk. The dark skies of Jasper are also ideal for stargazing, with the park designated as a Dark Sky Preserve.
No trip to Western Canada can be considered complete without experiencing the coastal beauty of Vancouver and Vancouver Island Vancouver is a vibrant city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains and an ideal starting point for exploring Western Canada with lots of history, culture and great cuisine for visitors.
Ella-Louise suggests a bicycle ride around Stanley Park, enjoying fresh seafood in Granville Island, or taking a gondola ride up Grouse Mountain for sweeping city views. Just a ferry ride away, or a short but scenic seaplane journey, Vancouver Island offers a completely different experience. Victoria, the island’s capital, boasts charming British architecture and the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Don’t miss the opportunity to go whale watching here, with humpback, gray and orca whales frequently spotted – or for a wilder side of the island, and perhaps bear spotting in their natural habitat, then Tofino is a haven for surfers and nature lovers.
Alaska: The Last Frontier
Many visitors add on a relaxing cruise after a tour of the Canadian Rockies. Cruise lines offer the coastal route of the Inside Passage, sailing through the fjords of British Colombia, and then north towards Alaska – the land of untamed wilderness and dramatic landscapes. Cruises to Alaska leave Vancouver almost every day in the high season – June to August – as mild weather and long daylight hours mean perfect conditions for seeing more wildlife.
Rocky Mountaineer luxury train
The Canadian Rockies
Niagara Falls
Travelling through the Rockies
This US state is renowned for its glaciers, fjords, and wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, moose, caribou, wolves and bald eagles. These journeys wind through narrow waterways, giving close-up views of glaciers and marine life. Ports of call like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway offer a glimpse into the state’s history, with gold rush towns and Native Alaskan culture – don’t miss the totem pole parks and cultural performances dedicated to preserving the history of these first nations. Ella would summarise that “from the towering Rocky Mountains to the icy wilderness of Alaska, these regions are perfect for holidaymakers seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a deep connection to the great outdoors”.
The View from the East
Eastern Canada is a dynamic region that blends natural wonders, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travellers. From the French-speaking charm of Quebec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like stepping into a European fairy tale –to the cosmopolitan energy of Toronto and iconic Niagara Falls, the region offers diverse experiences and unforgettable attractions.
Marie suggests to start your journey walking the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and cafés, which are perfect for exploring on foot. Visit the iconic Château Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world, and take a stroll along the Dufferin Terrace for panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River. Next, head to Montreal, blending old-world charm with modern flair. Old Montreal is a cultural hub, with its historic Notre-Dame Basilica, quaint streets and lively waterfront. Foodies will love the city’s diverse culinary scene – Marie recommends the iconic smoked meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli and the authentic bagels at St-Viateur. Festivals are a staple of Montreal’s culture, with events like the Montreal Jazz Festival drawing global audiences.
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a bustling cultural hub with something for everyone. Visitors can start their journey at the CN Tower,
one of the world’s tallest free-standing structures, providing panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario. Marie suggests taking a plane ride from a local airport to see Toronto and the CN Tower from a different angle. For art and history enthusiasts, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario showcase world-class collections. Toronto’s diversity is reflected in its neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy and Kensington Market, with cuisine to match the vibrant street life here.
For shopping, the Eaton Centre and the Distillery District are where you will find everything from high-end brands to arts and crafts shopping. Marie recommends sports fans can catch a major league baseball game in spring and summer, with the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre, or see the Maple Leafs play ice hockey in the autumn and winter at Scotiabank Arena.
Niagara Falls: A natural wonder and just a 90-minute drive or short train ride from Torontos’ Union station, Niagara Falls is a must-see destination. The majestic falls consist of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Tourists can get up close with the falls on a Hornblower boat tour, or explore the misty viewing platforms along the Niagara Parkway. Beyond the falls, the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, is well worth a visit, renowned for its wineries, and the Clifton Hill entertainment district, filled with restaurants and amusements.
Visiting Toronto and Niagara Falls offers an unforgettable blend of vibrant welcoming city and awe-inspiring natural beauty, making them essential stops on any Canadian itinerary.
Marie celebrated a big birthday at Niagara Falls and followed it up with a road trip, stopping off in Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec City. She comments: “Canada is one of the most beautiful countries I’ve ever visited – the untouched wilderness, dramatic landscapes and scenery were definitely my highlights.” n
milesmorgantravel.co.uk; call the Clifton team on 0117 223 2096
CN Tower
Stunning scenery from the Rockies
Picture-perfect landscapes in the Rockies
Toronto skyline at sunset
Stanley Park, Vancouver
Downtown Toronto
Bristol at work
LOCAL BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATION UPDATES
100 business campaign
Faye Dicker and Carly Cannings, have been crowned two of the UK’s most impressive female entrepreneurs by Small Business Britain’s ‘f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100’ campaign.
Faye Dicker and Carly Cannings, who both jointly host the Freelance Mum South Bristol hub, have been profiled among 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs from across the country as part of the campaign to celebrate the multi-achievements of women running businesses in the UK today.
The f:Entrepreneur ‘#IAlso100’ line-up showcases trailblazing female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community support. Dicker was also recognised for founding Freelance Mum in 2014 and creating a community to support mums in business. She is also a voiceover artist and runs her business from her home studio, and is the founder of the South Bristol Wrong Road Group.
Meanwhile, Cannings runs The Happy Business School helping organisations create thriving, people-centric cultures. She also volunteers as an Independent Custody Visitor for Avon and Somerset Police, as well as speaking about living with rheumatoid arthritis and raising awareness of the challenges of running a business with a chronic illness or disability. f-entrepreneur.com/ialso-100-2025; smallbusinessbritain.uk
New trustees at Bristol Old Vic
Following an open recruitment process in 2024, Bristol Old Vic has announced four new appointments to its board of trustees, as it continues to strengthen governance and representation needed to support the theatre’s ambitions. LaToyah McAllister-Jones will take the position of deputy chair from April 2025. She is the executive director of St Pauls Carnival and previously worked as the head of operations at Ujima Radio. She is joined by Beth Byrne who, since growing up in Bath, has had 25 years' experience producing and programming work for the stage. She is currently creative director at Warwick Arts Centre, the UK's largest arts centre outside London. Strategic communications professional Timi Oni and Christopher Sharp, a King’s Counsel, have also been added to the board. Bristol Old Vic is also expanding its subsidiaries and sub-committees to further support the organisation in key areas, with the addition of four new people. bristololdvic.org.uk
More river travel services during Bristol Light Festival
Bristol Community Ferryboats Ltd (BCFB) has launched a special night-time hop-on, hop-off service for the Bristol Light Festival, running until February 9. Departing from the city centre at 6pm and 7pm daily, with extra 8pm sailings on weekends, the ferry provides stunning views of key light installations, especially those best seen from the water. Passengers can also book a circular tour, cruising from the city centre to the eastern harbour, stopping at key spots like Castle Park and Welsh Back before returning to the Cascade Steps. bristolferry.com
Pictured left to right: Carly Cannings and Faye Dicker
Photo by Philip Vile
Ferry at a previous light festival
5 simple steps to get your finances in order for 2025
Read on to discover five simple steps to get your finances in order for the year ahead.
Maximise your pension contributions
For most people, in the 2024/25 tax year, the Annual Allowance is £60,000 or 100% of your income, whichever is higher. You can also carry forward any unused contributions for the previous three tax years.
Make full use of your gifting exemption and ISA allowance
For the 2024/25 tax year, the ISA allowance is £20,000 and the “annual gifting exemption” is £3,000.
Review your budget
The start of each new year is a good opportunity to assess how changes in both your personal life and the broader economic climate have or could influence your budget.
Complete a self-assessment tax return before the deadline
The deadline to submit a paper self-assessment return is 31 October, but you have until 31 January to file online, which is the final date to avoid penalties.
Revisit your goals
Re-evaluating both short- and long-term goals ensures your financial plan stays in line with your changing circumstances and sets you up for success in the years ahead.
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.
0117 959 6499
info@perennialwealth.co.uk
Trym Lodge, 1 Henbury Road, Bristol, UK, BS9 3HQ
Electric dreams
It’s time to plug into the future of driving. BYD (Build Your Dreams), a global leader in electric vehicles (EVs), has just opened a new showroom in South Bristol – with another planned for North Bristol soon – and it's set to change the way we think about driving. If you’ve been thinking about making the leap to electric, or just want to see what the buzz is all about, BYD is waiting to show you how the next generation of motoring is done…
As the world shifts toward electric transport, BYD is setting the standard with its forward-thinking technology, sleek designs, and an ethos rooted in harmony with nature. BYD’s new car showroom, located on Bath Road in South Bristol, has become not just a place to check out the latest in EVs, but a physical manifestation of the brand’s elemental focus, blending smooth curves, eco-conscious design, and cutting-edge technology to create a truly immersive experience.
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the flowing curves that define the showroom’s interior. The smooth lines evoke the sleek contours of BYD’s cars, from the electric family-sized SUV Atto 3 to the electric performance saloon Seal, but there’s something else at play here too. The interior’s curves that resemble the rhythmic undulations of waves, particularly in the ceiling. The space almost feels oceanic, a reminder of the brand’s commitment to working in harmony with the natural world. Clean, crisp and white – yet not at all clinical.
“I’ve been in Bristol for 20 years and I feel that the community here is very forward thinking in terms of what they want for their city environmentally, and they’re very proud of it,” says Sing Cheung, Branch Manager of BYD Harmony Bristol. “We have a lot of local initiatives, like the Clean Air Zone, that align with this, and there’s a hugely environmentally-conscious generation that lives here. There are lots of similarities between what BYD wants to do, and what Bristol wants to achieve as a city – our ethos is that we want to cool the Earth’s temperature by one degree. Hopefully we can successfully combine our two agendas with this new showroom.”
The tech behind the magic BYD’s fleet available in Bristol at the time of writing includes three fully electric models and one hybrid (with more to come), offering something for every type of driver. Whether you’re after the compact, city-friendly
Dolphin, or a larger SUV, BYD’s cars combine top-tier performance with sustainability and design that’s guaranteed to turns heads.
For those who aren’t quite ready to go fully electric, there’s the BYD Seal U Hybrid. It combines a petrol engine with electric power, giving you the flexibility to switch between the two, all while keeping your carbon footprint low. At the heart of BYD’s electric vehicles is a suite of advanced, industry-leading technologies that are reshaping the future of driving.
BYD’s game-changing Blade Battery is a serious leap forward in EV battery tech. Its flat, rectangular design significantly improves cooling efficiency and enhances safety. This battery doesn’t just last longer (we’re talking more than 5,000 charge cycles) – it’s built to handle the heat. In fact, it successfully passed the nail penetration test without catching fire or emitting smoke. It’s a safe, durable, and efficient powerhouse that ensures a longer driving range and a safer journey. Plus, the clever design allows for over 50% better space utilisation compared to traditional batteries, meaning more range in a smaller, sleeker package.
The Blade Battery isn’t just a power source; it’s integrated into the body of the car, doubling the vehicle’s structural rigidity for added safety. It also features the world’s first mass-produced eight-in-one electric powertrain, which boosts system efficiency to a staggering 89%. On top of all this, the e-Platform 3.0 powering the entire BYD range is smart, really smart. This platform maximises safety and performance while offering a design that’s as good to look at as it is to drive. It’s got an integrated, domain-controlled system that constantly evolves with overthe-air software updates. The design itself is sleek, reducing the drag coefficient to an impressive 0.21Cd, which not only looks stunning, but improves performance and efficiency.
BYD vehicles are just as innovative once you’re behind the wheel. The Intelligent Cockpit System integrates seamlessly with your smartphone, giving you a connected, intuitive driving experience that feels almost like an extension of your digital life. Whether it’s streaming your favourite
BYD Seal U DM-i plug-in Hybrid SUV
The story behind the business
The comprehensive auto service group of China Harmony Auto Holding Limited (Harmony Auto) has been reputed as the pioneer in the area of Auto Service, and was successfully listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (03836.HK) in 2013.
Harmony Auto specialises in the sales of worldrenowned luxury and ultra-luxury cars, with distribution of NEV (new energy vehicle) services covered globally. Harmony Auto is committed to delivering efficient, quality, and harmonious driving experiences to our customers. In the remarkable year of 2023, BYD, the world’s largest brand of new energy vehicles, decided to partner with Harmony Auto, marking the beginning of global cooperation. The strategic partnership between BYD and Harmony Auto has led to the opening of BYD stores in the Hong Kong, AsiaPacific, and European markets.
playlist, checking navigation, or responding to messages, everything is at your fingertips. And with the latest in vehicle safety, BYD goes above and beyond, subjecting their cars to rigorous tests to ensure the highest standards in protection, reliability, and performance.
You’re electric, Bristol BYD’s new showroom in South Bristol means that even more people across the city can access its vehicles firsthand. You can take a test drive, chat with the knowledgeable team, and discover how their electric vehicles can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you’re ready to make the jump to EV or just curious about what’s out there, BYD is ready to show you the future of driving.
“If you’re in the South Bristol area, come on in so we can talk you through the benefits of an EV vehicle,” says Cheung. “We want to see how we can help these products become a daily part of life. We’re a little bit different to other mainstream dealerships because our cars are fully electric, we’ve got history behind us [BYD has been operating for 30 years] and we want to be able to show customers why we are a great choice – if not the number one choice – in EV production in terms of safety and technological advancements, as well as price. We have a vehicle for every member of the family, and for every situation. We should have the choice and affordability for everybody out there.”
The new showroom isn’t just about cars – it’s about a movement toward a more sustainable, eco-friendly way of living. From cutting-edge, energy-efficient vehicles to its investment in green energy solutions and sustainable electronics, BYD is leading the charge in creating a cleaner, greener world. So, if you’re in South Bristol, swing by the new BYD showroom and see what all the excitement is about. The future of driving is here, and it’s electric. n
Book your personalised test drive and meet the experts today. To continue Chinese New Year celebrations, don’t miss the gifts prepared for readers by the BYD team! Scan the QR code to book a test drive and claim your special present today...
Follow on Instagram @byd_harmony_uk and Facebook @BYD Harmony UK
BYD Seal
BYD Atto 3 SUV
South Bristol showroom exterior
BYD Dolphin
BYD Seal U DM-i plug-in Hybrid SUV
One for the history books...
To celebrate LGBT+ History Month in February, we’re shining a dazzling light on a local author who has recently published a very relevant book looking at Queer Disabled people through history, and the huge impact they’ve made on our lives which many of us may have no idea about…
Researcher, writer, archivist and historian Daisy Holder (pictured centre) has explored the often-overlooked connections between the Disability and LGBTQ+ movements in their new book Queer Disability through History: The Queer and Disabled Movements through their Personalities. Both communities have faced persecution, exclusion, and marginalisation throughout history, but their journeys have also been intertwined in surprising and profound ways.
This ground-breaking book delves into the shared experiences of these two groups, revealing how their histories have often run parallel to each other, sometimes converging in unexpected ways. From the disabled, bisexual painter Frida Kahlo to Michelangelo’s homoerotic poetry, the book highlights key figures and events that shaped both queer and disability cultures. The book also brings attention to unsung heroes, such as Dr. Fryer, whose work led to the removal of homosexuality from the American diagnostic manual, and Martha P. Johnson, a pioneering figure in both LGBTQ+ and AIDS activism.
Through these stories, Daisy sheds light on how both movements have influenced each other and how their shared past offers a glimpse into the future of both struggles. We caught up with Daisy to find out more…
What inspired you to follow the path of researching Disability history?
“I’ve considered myself Disabled since I was a teenager and studied history at university. I tried to research some Disabled history, because I knew we would have been around for all of time, but aside from the very recent history of activism and campaigning, there was none around.”
“There are of course some great academic historians doing research on disability history but a lot of it is on very specific subsets of history, it's not been considered a specific type of history really, just a part of either medical or social history. A lot of Disabled people in history are never spoken of as Disabled, they’re just ‘someone who did something really cool and awesome. Oh, also they had this impairment’. They are never described as Disabled.”
“Naturally, part of this is because Disabled isn’t necessarily a word they had for themselves, but a lot of it is because the people who were writing these accounts didn't want to see them as Disabled. It was something they thought would reflect on them badly.”
How did the idea for the book come about, and how do you feel about the final result?
“Half of it was coincidence. While I was researching, I slowly realised just how many of these Disabled figures that I was researching were also Queer. In a way it makes sense, today more Disabled people are Queer, and more Queer people are Disabled than in the general population, so why wouldn’t that also cross over to history?”
“It turns out that there are so many important moments in both Disabled and Queer histories that wouldn’t have happened, or at least
not in the same way, without those people who were Queer and Disabled. Being Queer and Disabled myself, it's great to have those people that weren’t an inconvenience for having both of those identities, they did amazing things and were so vital to the progression of both of those communities.”
Are there any Queer Disabled historical figures from Bristol and the surrounding area that you’d encourage readers to research more about?
“Harriet Martineau, who features in the book, is a major one. She wasn’t from Bristol, but she spent a lot of time here during her early years when she was particularly unwell, and loved it.”
What are you hoping readers can experience from your book?
“Hopefully they can have an interesting time and enjoy learning something new. It’s easy to see the Queer community as one thing and the Disabled community as another, and when people talk about intersectionality, it can make it sound really complicated and politically correct, when the reality is ‘sometimes someone who is gay is also Disabled’, which doesn't sound all that weird. It’s the realisation that we’re everywhere (and not in a scary way).” n
Queer Disability through History: The Queer and Disabled Movements through their Personalities is out now, published by Pen & Sword History; pen-and-sword.co.uk
Frida Kahlo was Disabled (image from a museum and art house in Mexico dedicated to the artist, credit: Alexandra Lande)
Education matters
NEWS FROM THE CITY’S LEARNERS & LEADERS
Leading poetry competition’s directors honoured in with MBEs
Dr Julie Blake (pictured) and Dr Tim Shortis, the directors of the nation’s premier poetry speaking competition, Poetry By Heart, were recognised in King Charles III’s New Year’s Honours list. They have both been awarded the honour of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to Education.
Founded in 2013 by former Poet Laureate Sir Andrew Motion and Dr Julie Blake, Bristol-based Poetry By Heart is open to all schools and colleges in England. The competition invites young people to choose a poem they love, learn it by heart, and perform it out loud. Schools hold internal competitions to select their own winners, with the best from each region invited to a Grand Finale at Shakespeare’s Globe, London to compete for the title of national champion in a day of celebration. Thousands of schools have taken part, and more than 110,000 young people were encouraged to learn a poem by heart in 2024. poetrybyheart.org.uk
UWE Futures expands to support legal and creative sector diversity
UWE Bristol’s talent programme UWE Futures, which offers work experience and mentoring to final-year global majority students from low-income backgrounds, has expanded in its second year to include more legal firms and a leading organisation in Bristol’s creative sector.
The second year of UWE Futures, which aims to improve diversity in industries in Bristol and create a new talent pipeline, will see legal firms RPC and Foot Anstey join Osborne Clarke, Burges Salmon, Clarke Willmott and Simmons & Simmons, while TV and film production company Plimsoll Productions has also signed up.
UWE Bristol also joins the initiative as a participating organisation offering paid work experience opportunities in its HR and Finance departments. This year, the programme has expanded to provide nearly 30 placements across eight businesses, offering one-week paid work experience. Students will also have the opportunity to secure an extended internship or be offered a guaranteed interview for suitable roles.
uwe.ac.uk; osborneclarke.com
Inspirational graduate makes family history
A woman who was the first person in her family to go to school has graduated with a master’s in human rights law from the University of Bristol.
Gurvin Chopra (pictured), whose parents fled religious persecution in Afghanistan, made a speech to a crowd of around 1,000 graduating students and their loved ones, in which she spoke about what a “privilege it is to pursue an education”.
Chopra’s parents – Jaspal and Waryam Chopra – were forced to leave their home country in 2000 by the Taliban because of their Sikh religion. Although neither received any education, and cannot read or write, they encouraged Gurvin and her two younger siblings to work hard at school. Growing up in west London, Gurvin would read the family’s post, fill out their forms and read books to her brother and sister. These early experiences propelled her toward a career in law. bristol.ac.uk
UWE Futures interns at Osborne Clarke
The look of Love...
Pucker up, people: it’s the month of lurve! From lipsticks to scrubs, toothpastes to plumpers, we’ve put together a little list of everything you’ll need to perfect your pout in time for Valentine’s Day
Hourglass At Night Cheek & Lip Duo from Harvey Nichols | £57
This Hourglass Duo featuring a Confession Ultra Slim Lipstick and a mini Ambient Lighting Blush is the perfect product for popping in your pocket! harveynichols.com
Bobbi Brown x Hannah Murray Collection Lip & Cheek Oil, Exposed from John Lewis | £27
This limited‐edition oil is superb for a sheer, juicy pop of colour on cheeks and lips. johnlewis.com
Dior Lip Sugar Scrub from H Beauty | £33
Melting from an exfoliating scrub into a soothing balm, Dior’s formula provides irresistibly nourished and soft lips. harrods.com
Jo Malone London, Taif Rose Cologne Intense | £112
A sensuous, irresistible scent with coffee and amber, evoking the radiant and iconic rose flower: precious and majestic. jomalone.co.uk
La Mer Lip Polish from Harvey Nichols | £62
Resurface and refine uneven texture while conditioning delicate skin with La Mer’s sensorial buffing balm, leaving your lips hydrated and supple, even in these winter months. harveynichols.com
Chanel Rouge Coco Baume in Cherry Burst | £36
This lip balm from Chanel’s new Spring Summer 2025 Collection has buildable intensity and an amplified, long‐lasting shine. chanel.com
Marvis Whitening Toothpaste from Harvey Nichols | £4
This tried and tested product has been declared one of the most innovative heroes out there –helping your teeth become sparklingly white for a picture‐perfect smile. harveynichols.com
Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in So Red from Space NK | £29
Want to make a statement?
This bold Charlotte Tilbury moisturising lipstick will give you full‐bodied, irresistably soft lips that will be sure to get you noticed. spacenk.com
Did you know that a consistent daily skincare routine will make a huge difference to you? While facial products are beneficial in themselves, every product you put on is an opportunity to massage the skin and the deeper layers underneath. This improves circulation and tightens the muscles, hence the face looks plumper and the skin looks healthier.
Another key benefit of a daily routine is that you will exfoliate your skin, removing the outer dead layers, encouraging new cell growth and collagen production, which is what we all need to prevent the effects of premature ageing.
When asked by my clients, I summarise the importance of daily skincare as the following...
Protects Skin: Cleansing, moisturising and using sunscreen protect your skin from grime, pollution, and sun damage.
Prevents Problems: Consistent care reduces issues like acne, dryness and premature aging.
Keeps Skin Healthy: Regular care keeps your skin balanced, hydrated, and glowing.
Boosts Confidence: Clear, healthy skin can make you feel more confident.
Slows Aging: Good skincare helps delay wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines over time.
In short, a routine is like daily maintenance to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. That’s why I have shared my ideal, five-step morning and night routines with you, which really should not take you more than five minutes, and as I say… ‘Your skin will love you if you do this every day!’
Face value
Eva Polchlopek of Eva Clinic Bath explains how to dramatically improve the look and feel of your skin by following a simple, daily skincare routine
Rise and shine morning routine
Firstly, use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to start with fresh skin. Then apply a toner to balance the skin’s pH and prep for other products. Choose a serum with antioxidants such as Vitamin C for anti-aging and UV protection and apply this after toning. Follow this with a lightweight moisturiser to keep skin hydrated all day. Finally, sunscreen is essential! Use SPF 30 or higher to protect from UV damage.
Wind down nighttime routine
Start by cleansing twice, removing grime, oil and makeup with a gentle cleanser. You should ideally exfoliate two-to-three times per week, using a mild exfoliator to remove dead skin cells (skip this step if your skin feels sensitive). Then apply your toner to close pores and prepare for the next step. Follow this with an application of any optional specific treatments you like, such as a hyaluronic acid serum. Finish with a richer moisturiser or a night cream for deeper hydration.
A regular skin care routine really will make the difference – you can easily do this at home, and the products need not cost a fortune - just focus on natural ingredients while avoiding synthetics or highly concentrated fragrances as they can trigger skin sensitivity and irritation.
You can access my full guide and a video via the QR code on this page, I do hope you find it useful. n
Contact Eva on 07507420244 or evaclinicbath@gmail.com to discuss any treatments and arrange an initial consultation at her private clinic in Bath. For more information, visit her website evaclinicbath.com
IPremium Intraocular Lenses in Cataract and Lens Surgery:
An Interview with Consultant Ophthalmologist Adam Ross
n the evolving field of cataract and lens surgery, premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) have revolutionized how patients experience vision correction. We sat down with consultant ophthalmologist Adam Ross to discuss these advanced options, including toric, trifocal/spiral, and extended depth/enhanced monovision lenses.
Thank you for joining us. To start, could you briefly explain the role of intraocular lenses in cataract surgery?
Absolutely. In cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye, which has become cloudy, is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This lens restores clarity to vision and can be tailored to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Premium IOLs go a step further by offering additional benefits, such as reducing the need for glasses and providing enhanced visual quality.
What are premium IOLs, and how do they differ from standard lenses?
Standard monofocal lenses correct vision at a single distance, usually either near or far, so patients often need glasses for other tasks. Premium IOLs, on the other hand, are designed to improve focus at multiple distances or correct specific vision issues like astigmatism. Options like toric, trifocal, and EMV lenses are tailored to individual needs and lifestyles, significantly enhancing visual outcomes.
Let’s delve into the different types. Could you tell us about toric lenses and their benefits?
Toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are specialized lenses used to correct astigmatism in patients undergoing cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing distorted or blurry vision. Toric IOLs are available in monofocal, multifocal, trifocal and EMV designs, and their use depends on the patient's visual needs and lifestyle.
How do trifocal/spiral lenses stand out compared to other multifocal lenses?
These lenses allow patients to focus at three distinct ranges: near, intermediate, and far. This means activities like reading, working on a computer, and driving can all be done reducing the dependency on glasses. The design of newer trifocal/spiral lenses reduces the visual disturbances—such as halos or glare—that were more common with earlier multifocal IOLs. However, a careful examination and discussion about the pros and cons of these lenses is essential on an individual basis.
You also mentioned extended monofocal lenses, or EMV lenses. What makes them unique?
These lenses, bridge the gap between traditional monofocals and multifocal lenses. They provide a greater range of vision than monofocals without the compromises in visual quality sometimes associated with multifocal lenses.
How do you determine which lens is best for a patient?
It’s a personalised process. We start by evaluating the patient’s eye health, including the presence of astigmatism or other refractive errors. We then discuss their lifestyle, hobbies, and expectations. For example, someone who frequently reads or works at a computer might prefer trifocal lenses, while a patient who drives a lot and values distance clarity might lean toward Extended Depth or EMV lenses. If astigmatism is a factor, a toric lens can be incorporated into the plan.
Are there any risks associated with these advanced lenses?
Premium IOLs are generally very safe, but as with any surgery, there are potential
risks, including infection or lens misalignment. Additionally, some patients may notice halos, glare, or difficulty with night vision, particularly with trifocal lenses, though these symptoms often improve over time. Careful preoperative assessments and discussions can mitigate these risks by ensuring the chosen lens suits the patient’s eyes and lifestyle.
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone considering cataract or lens replacement surgery with premium IOLs?
Do your research and have an open discussion with your surgeon. Understanding the options, the benefits, and any potential trade-offs is key. Make sure your choice aligns with your visual needs and lifestyle. With the right lens, cataract surgery can transform your vision and enhance your quality of life.
Premium intraocular lenses have ushered in a new era of vision correction, offering patients a range of customized solutions. With the expertise of specialists like Dr. Adam Ross, patients can navigate their options confidently and achieve outstanding visual outcomes. ■
Mr Adam Ross MBChB, FRCOphth, FHEA, PGC Med Ed, MBA Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
To make an appointment contact: 0117 369 1179 Email: office@theeyeunit.co.uk www.theeyeunit.co.uk
For years I’ve been working with MBST helping to reduce pain and improve function for all manner of conditions related to arthritis and joint/tissue damage.
Hand arthritis is one condition that massively impairs lives, yet medically there are little to no solutions, especially as the condition is developing/progressing.
Using the cellular repair process initiated by MBST, we’re seeing life altering results treating hands that are causing severe pain and limited activities that were once taken for granted.
Jane, Annalies and many others I’ve treated would advise anyone who is diagnosed with arthritic hands or is struggling with hand pain and mobility to get assessed and look into the options MBST has for them in Bristol.
Jane came to me with up to 9/10 finger pain when cleaning, washing up or knocking them. Worse over the last 5 years. Following MBST treatment last June she’s almost completely pain free with full function.
Annalies came to me with arthritic fingers causing pain and stiffness especially in the mornings. Within 3 -4 months MBST was enough to reduce her pain to zero, and is still going strong 5 years later. She’s since treated her arthritic knee which responded just as well.
AA winter’s wander
What does Andrew Swift do in February, when left up to his own devices? He takes a wintry walk around Devizes…
s the days lengthen, a walk in the country begins to seem a more attractive proposition. Even so, you may not feel like wandering too far from a handy café, should the weather take a turn for the worse. The walk suggested here is designed with such considerations in mind. It starts with a short – and probably muddy – country walk, taking in one of the engineering wonders of Regency England. That done, there’s time for a coffee before exploring one of Wiltshire’s most historic towns.
Devizes dates from the late 11th Century, when the Normans built a castle here. As it stood where three manors met, it was known as the ‘castrum ad divisas’ – the castle at the boundaries – so the town that grew up around it was called Devizes.
In stagecoach days, Devizes was one of the main calling points between Bristol or Bath and London, and many of the inns built for the coaching trade still survive. In the early 18th Century, the Kennet & Avon Canal was also built through the town, making it an inland port – and it is with the canal that we start.
Follow my lead
As you drive into Devizes from the west, bear left by the former Wadworth’s Brewery, following a sign for Through Traffic. After 200m, just past the Crown Inn, turn left into the Wharf long stay pay and display car park. Having parked, head to the right of the long two-storey building at the far end, turn left to cross the canal and left along the towpath. After 150m, look out for a pillbox built in 1940 when the canal was designated a GHQ Blue Line to impede the advance of invading forces. Today it is a bat bunker.
At the road, turn right, cross at the zebra crossing and carry on in the same direction. The building wedged into the junction across the road, known as Shane’s Castle, was built as a tollhouse around 1840. After 350m, cross back at the next zebra crossing and carry on. Just before the road swings left over a bridge, carry straight on along a lane before turning onto a grassy track beside the canal. After passing a car park, you come to a café at the top of the Caen Hill flight of locks.
Just past the café, cross the canal and turn right along the towpath. At the end of Lock 43, cross back over the canal and carry on past a stretch of water called a pound, used to replenish water lost when boats pass through the locks.
At the end of the pound, turn left downhill past a series of further pounds. Partway down you have the option of a detour into the Diamond Jubilee Wood. After passing the bottom pound, turn left to cross back over the canal. Here, you can take in the scale of the challenge faced by the canal engineers.
Head back up the towpath. At the top of the flight, don’t cross back over – unless you want to call into the café – but carry on along the towpath. At the road, go through a tunnel to carry on along the canal, but at the next road bridge (141) climb the steps and turn right along the main road.
The imposing classical building across the road is the former Assize Court, built in 1835, and now earmarked to become the new Wiltshire Museum. Northgate House, further along on the right, is a former coaching inn, built in 1766. Across the road is the former Wadworth’s Brewery, opened in 1885 and closed last year after the company relocated to a new site.
Words and images: Andrew Swift
St John’s Alley
Carry straight on along Northgate Street. As you cross to the lefthand side to avoid the shell of a former kebab house, destroyed by fire last November, you can glimpse one of Devizes’ hidden gems – a tiny school which now houses a literary and scientific institute. Northgate Street leads into the Market Place, many of whose buildings were once inns. Today, though, only three survive, the rest having been converted to shops. The Bear, on the west side, was the grandest of all.
At the end of the Market Place, on the left, is the Shambles, a covered market hall built in 1835, where markets are still held several times a week. From here, turn right to walk along to the HSBC and then left along St John’s Street. The building straight ahead with the clock is the former Cheese Hall, whose ground-floor was originally open. Cross and carry on to the right of it and, when the street widens, turn left to discover St John’s Alley, its 15th-century timber-framed buildings tucked away down a hidden cul-de-sac.
Back on St John’s Street, the elegant building ahead with the bowed front is the Town Hall. Head to the right of it and at the end continue along St John’s Court, home to more medieval buildings. Ahead lies the massive Norman tower of St John’s church.
Once through the churchyard gate, a short diversion to the right leads to the 17th-century Sexton’s House. Just beyond it, you can see the blocked-up portal of a tunnel through which a railway line – closed almost 60 years ago – ran beneath the castle. Little remains of the original castle; most of what you see today is 19th Century.
Head back along the path, but, instead of turning into St John’s Court, carry on to emerge on Long Street, one of the finest Georgian streets in England. The white building opposite was built in 1806 as the townhouse of Lord Lansdowne.
Turn right to head past – or call into – Wiltshire Museum, before crossing and turning left along Bridewell Street. Take the next right into Hare and Hounds Street and turn left at the end along the main road, where Georgian buildings overlook Devizes Green.
After the roundabout, turn left along Sidmouth Street and right at the end into Monday Market Street. Great Porch House, the half timbered building at the end, dates from around 1450, while the White Bear, opposite, is reckoned to be the oldest pub in town, pulling pints since 1567. Carry on across the side road in front of it and cross at the
pedestrian lights to the Castle Hotel, which once had its own assembly rooms – the building next door with a wide archway.
A little further along, beyond St Mary’s church, is yet another of Devizes’ grand buildings, Brownstone House, dating from 1700. After another 100m, when you come to a zebra crossing, look across to see a building which could pass as 1930s but – apart from that top storey –was actually built in 1785 as a silk mill. The hoist used for loading and unloading still survives in the blocked opening above the entrance. A right turn here along Couch Lane leads back to the car park. n
For more of Andrew Swift’s work, visit akemanpress.com
Things you need to know
Distance: 4.5 miles. The first part of the walk includes grassy, muddy tracks and steps; the second part is on pavements and paved paths. As well as the Caen Hill Café, there is a wide selection of cafés, bars and pubs in Devizes. Instead of driving to Devizes, there is the option of taking the bus, by travelling to Bath bus station and taking the No 272 from there.
Castle and tunnel portal
Long Street
Caen Hill Locks (pictured in summer)
Sexton’s House
Market Square (around 1910)
Vanity affair
Trying to decide who is the fairest of them all at home?
You’ll need a mirror for that. Whether you’re aiming to radiate more light around a room, make an interior design statement or simply need to see yourself better – we reflect on some gorgeous mirrors available to order now
Images: A distressed mirror or classically-shaped piece can suit period-style interiors that blend antique elements with contemportary accents. Pictured top, Laura Ashley Rochelle Square Wall Mirror from John Lewis, £160, johnlewis.com; pictuered bottom, bathroom from Little Greene with walls covered in Stag Toile - Juniper wallpaper; littlegreene.com
How do you see yourself? Most of us have likely experienced the bizarre shapeshifting that can occur between the version of you that brushed your teeth compared to seeing yourself rush past the hallway mirror, who then looked uncertainly into their changing room reflection, and the person catching a glimpse of themselves in a passing shop window looking completely unrecognisable.
Forget fairy tales – mirrors have real life magical powers to influence how we perceive ourselves in the world. A good mirror, well placed, can boost your confidence ten-fold. A bad mirror in poor lighting, set at an unflattering angle, holds the potential to ruin your day. And these glass portals can have the same marked impact on the way our homes look and feel too.
Magic mirror on the wall
Mirrors are an interior design secret weapon, effortlessly transforming the feel of a space with their ability to reflect light and create the illusion of more room. Natural light and space are often at a premium in many Bristol homes (thanks to the city’s period architecture, leafy trees and properties built within close proximity to each other), and mirrors can make a huge impact, both practically and aesthetically.
When placed thoughtfully, they have the magical ability to brighten up even the darkest corners. By reflecting light from windows or lamps, mirrors bounce brightness around the room, creating a sense of warmth and inviting energy. This simple addition can make a space feel more vibrant and airy, turning a dull, lifeless room into a glowing, uplifting environment.
But mirrors do more than just add light – they also open up a space visually. In smaller rooms or flats, where square footage is often limited, mirrors can create the illusion of expansiveness. A large mirror on a wall can make the space feel twice as big, visually extending the boundaries of the room and making it feel less cramped. This is especially effective in tight hallways, cosy living rooms or bijou bedrooms where every inch counts. With just one carefully-positioned piece, you can instantly increase the sense of space, creating an open, free-flowing atmosphere.
Moreover, mirrors introduce depth and dimension into a room. A mirrored accent on a wall, a statement mirror above the mantelpiece, or a mirrored coffee table can add a touch of glamour and sophistication, reflecting not just light but the beauty of your décor. The reflective surfaces create subtle movement too, making the room feel dynamic, rather than flat and a little dull.
When used creatively, mirrors don’t just serve a functional purpose; they enhance the style and flow of any room, infusing it with light, space, and personality. It’s no wonder they’re a go-to in any stylish home – whether your décor embraces period features, has a vintage maximalist vibe, is a bohemian paradise, makes the most of refined mid-century class, or rests on sleek, Scandi-inspired minimalism. Turn the page for more ideas...
1. Lights, mirror, action: A mirror with built-in lighting is a gamechanger. Whether it's soft lighting behind the glass or around the frame (many are also smart and can connect to your phone or a remote), it gives you the perfect glow for everything from grooming to makeup – all without adding extra clutter. Link 800 Circular Mirror Connected by WiZ & WiZ Smart Switch Button, £515, roperrhodes.co.uk
2. A match made in heaven: Your mirror’s frame should complement your room’s vibe. Match its colours, textures, and shapes to the furniture around it for a seamless look. A sleek black frame might pair beautifully with modern metal accents, while a wooden frame brings warmth to natural materials. Polygon Mirror, £70, oliverhayden.com
3. Standing tall: No need to drill holes in the wall – free-standing mirrors are your best friend. Many now come with a little shelf for storage, making them both stylish and practical. Place one anywhere for flexibility and a chic statement piece that does more than reflect. Rattan Cherry Floor Mirror, £350, johnlewis.com
4. Turn back time: Why not get a mirror that doubles as a clock? These clever designs combine function with style, offering a sleek way to keep track of time while admiring your reflection. Perfect for living rooms, kitchens, utility rooms and entryways... take your pick! Libra Interiors Beaded Mirrored Round Wall Clock, £150, johnlewis.com
5. Round and around: Add a little drama with a convex mirror. These curved beauties distort reflections in a fun way, making your space feel bigger and more dynamic, whether it's a vintage-inspired porthole or a modern spherical design. Gallery Direct Rockbourne Round Wood Frame Wall Mirror, £200, johnlewis.com
6. A work of art: Think of your mirror as a piece of art, not just a functional tool. From hand-painted frames to sculptural designs, mirrors can be showstoppers in their own right. Add one to your space and watch it become the focal point. Decorative mirrors, £50-£125, rockettstgeorge.co.uk
7. The great outdoors: Bring some glamour to your outdoor space with a weather-proof mirror. When placed carefully in a courtyard or garden, mirrors can reflect light and greenery, making even the tiniest space feel larger. Just make sure it’s securely fixed and away from direct sun to avoid any accidents! Round Metal Vintage Cream Mirror, £59.95, melodymaison.co.uk
8. Lean on me: For a relaxed yet luxe feel, try a large mirror leaning against the wall. It’s easier to position, adds grandeur, and brings a soft, casual elegance to any room. Plus, it’s perfect for checking your look from head to toe. Full Length Wavy Wall Mirror, laurajadehome.co.uk 1 23 4 5 6 7 8
Your First Year of Retirement: A Financial Checklist
James Kenward; Independent Financial Adviser
Retirement is an exciting milestone, offering the freedom to pursue hobbies, travel, and time with loved ones. However, managing your finances in this new phase is crucial to ensure lasting security and peace of mind.
Understand Your New Budget
Review your income and expenses to ensure your pensions, savings, and investments cover your lifestyle. Adjust for inflation and unexpected costs to stay on track.
Review Your Income Streams
Carefully manage your pensions and investments to make your money last. Delaying withdrawals or restructuring your portfolio can improve tax efficiency and support long-term financial health.
Plan for the Unexpected
Prepare for unexpected expenses or care needs by maintaining an emergency fund and exploring care funding options.
Stay on Top of Taxes
Understand how your retirement income is taxed. Using strategies like taxfree lump sums or gifting assets can make a significant difference.
Secure Your Legacy
Update your will, trusts, and power of attorney to reflect your wishes. Proactive inheritance planning, especially with changes to inheritance tax, ensures your loved ones benefit from your estate.
Enjoy Retirement
Set realistic spending limits that let you enjoy travel, hobbies, and family time while protecting your long-term finances.
Personalised Advice for a Confident Retirement
Your first year of retirement is a time to adjust and plan for the future. At Harold Stephens, we specialise in helping new retirees navigate these challenges with confidence. Our bespoke, independent advice helps to align your finances with your goals, giving you peace of mind to enjoy this exciting new chapter. Contact us today to start planning your perfect retirement.
Visit: 50 High Street, Westbury on Trym, BS9 3DZ Search ‘Harold Stephens IFA’ for financial planning tips and information.
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
Growing your own
February is the perfect time to plan your plot, browse the seed catalogues and start sowing crops indoors or under cover, writes Elly West, no matter the size of your garden...
Iremember one summer in recent years when, for days on end, I was able to eat my lunch in the garden. Every day was the same –tomato and basil salad, with tomatoes picked straight from the vine, warmed by the sun, and a succession of basil leaves from seeds sown straight into the soil at weekly intervals. Admittedly, I wasn’t as organised last year, but my New Year’s resolution was to find the time and space to sow some crops from seed and enjoy the satisfaction of fresh and healthy home-grown food.
Now is the perfect time to plan your plot, browse the seed catalogues and start sowing crops indoors or under cover. Whatever the size of your garden, there are plenty of fruits, vegetables and herbs that are easy to grow and don’t take up much room. While it’s nice to dedicate an area of the garden to edibles, perhaps with some raised beds and maybe even a greenhouse, crops can just as easily be grown in pots, window-boxes, hanging baskets or in amongst the flowers and shrubs in an existing border. Growing your own food is an all-round win-win situation. Who can argue with the appeal of spending less at the supermarket and the convenience of seasonal crops at your fingertips?
Location, location, location
First steps will be to choose a space. Most edibles prefer a decent amount of sunlight and well-drained soil, so a raised bed is ideal, where you can bring in new good-quality compost or topsoil. If space is at a premium or you don’t want to create a permanent bed in the garden, then
containers are perfect for crops as you can position them in a sunny spot and clear them away at the end of the growing season.
Grow-bags are designed for this purpose, or you can fill just about any container and use that. These aren’t permanent displays, so you may not be as concerned with appearances or longevity. Old buckets, half-barrels, clay or plastic pots, compost bags or upcycled pallets can provide space for some veg or herbs.
Ensure your containers have adequate drainage holes to prevent water logging, keep an eye on them daily during sunny spells and water regularly, as there’s nothing more frustrating than putting in all that care and attention, only to have your plants die while you’re away on a sunny weekend break. The larger the containers, the more you can grow and the less often you will need to water.
If you don’t have much room, then consider crops that climb upwards, maximising your vertical space. Beans are ideal as they are so easy to grow, and keep cropping through the summer. Scrambling over a wigwam they’ll add height and structure, and are attractive in their own right with their bright red and white flowers. A cane tripod for beans can easily be squeezed in amongst your ornamental plants, or you can grow them over a trellis or wires on a fence.
My favourites are the multi-coloured borlotti beans - pale pink with red-brown speckles - that are tactile and fun to dry and use in kids’ craft projects, as well as being tasty in soups, casseroles, or cooked and cooled and added to a salad.
Fruits of your labour
Don’t rule out a fruit tree in a small garden either. They are often grown on dwarfing rootstocks, which keep them small and suitable for containers or the border, or you buy plants ready-trained as cordons or espaliers, to grow flat against a fence or wall. Soft fruits such as blueberries (which like acid soil, so are better grown in pots filled with ericaceous compost), gooseberries and blackcurrants can all be kept small and are suitable for pots.
Hanging baskets are a great place for strawberries or trailing cherry tomatoes, and can be hung from a bracket on the house or attached to a wall or fence post. Both of these crops like lots of sun and regular watering, and will benefit from being high up out of the way of slugs and other pests.
Some vegetable seeds should be started off indoors or in a heated greenhouse, as they need warmth to germinate. Seeds to sow towards the end of February include tomatoes, chillies, peppers, cucumbers, squashes and courgettes. Other more hardy crops can be sown outdoors at the end of this month, with a little protection from a cloche or in a coldframe, to give them a head-start for earlier crops. These include lettuces, radishes, peas, beans and spring onions.
Once your plants are underway, consider adding fertiliser to give them a boost. Tomatoes, peppers and squashes will all do better with a liquid feed during the growing season. Or just scatter some slow-release fertiliser pellets around your plants and fork them into the soil.
If you want to find out more about growing crops, then the Bristol Seed Swap is a great place to meet like-minded people and get hold of some seeds. Bring cash or seeds to exchange, and hear from experts on seed saving and food growing. There’s also a café and kids’ area. The
Bristol Seed Swap takes place at the Trinity Centre (BS2 0NW) on Sunday 23 February from 12.30pm until 4.30pm. Visit the website bristolseedswap.com to find out more. n ellyswellies.co.uk
Plant of the month: Lettuce
This salad staple is on my list of crops to grow this year, as I’m fed up with buying it in bags and finding it goes soggy and brown within days of opening. Instead, I’m looking forward to picking handfuls of fresh leaves as and when I need them. Lettuce is an amazing crop and can be grown all year round on a windowsill, or outdoors from March onwards. They’ll even keep going in winter if you cover outdoor plants with cloches from October.
Lettuces come in a wide variety of colours and textures, and many ‘cut and come again’ varieites are ready to pick around six weeks after sowing. Lettuces like a spot that gets some shade, as they are prone to bolting and setting seed in full sun. Moist well-drained soil is best, and make sure you water them regularly, as they have shallow roots and lose a lot of moisture from the leaves. Keep the leaves coming by picking a few from the base each time, promoting new growth at the top.
PROPERTY NEWS
DISCOVER THE LATEST NEWS FROM BRISTOL’S PROPERTY EXPERTS
Buying a Home at Auction: A Buyer’s Guide
Buying by auction can be an exciting and rewarding experience that can offer significant advantages, such as motivated sellers, lower prices or the opportunity to acquire something unique. However, it’s also a process that requires preparation, knowledge, and a clear understanding of the risks and benefits involved.
This month it was an absolute pleasure to speak with Andrew Morgan MBE, Director and Auctioneer at Hollis Morgan who since 2010 have been the most successful land and property auctioneers across the Region. Andrew offered the following insights to those considering buying by auction:-
“Auctions have been a well trusted method of selling property for centuries but in the last few decades we have seen a complete revolution in the profile of both buyers and sellers. This fast and efficient method of sale is now no longer just restricted to run-down properties, development opportunities, insolvency situations, deceased estates etc. all much loved by builders and speculators but has now also become extremely popular with many ordinary residential and quasi commercial properties where sellers just require some action in order to move on.
“Auction means Action” for both the seller and the buyer. So given there is now a complete range of properties available in the auction catalogue from a grass verge or a garage right up to a mansion, there is literally something for everyone from first time buyers to the most seasoned property professional. In fact, it is most noticeable that many successful buyers are simply looking for a family home. This public and completely transparent method of selling undisputedly shows the marketplace in operation. If a property is being offered for sale in an auction catalogue, you can be reasonably sure the seller is keen to sell, so it is worth investing time and effort into exploring the possibility of purchasing. For the successful
bidder, the fall of the auctioneer’s gavel is an automatic exchange of contracts, and the property has been purchased without any further fear of the seller changing their mind or of being gazumped. Certainty is a huge advantage in the world of property purchasing where protracted negotiations and delay often seem the norm.
Of course, one must not forget, one of the most exciting elements of an auction is the chance to acquire something unusual as these types of property often find their way into auction catalogues. Additionally, and not surprisingly, the prospect of a possible bargain is something that appeals to us all!”
Buying by auction is a very simple process but, having viewed something they want, buyers are advised to seek professional advice. It is essential to consider the following factors:-
Preparation ahead of the Auction
Auctions are fast-paced and unlike with traditional home buying, buyers won’t have the luxury of time for inspections and negotiations. It is therefore essential to, if possible, view the property before the auction. If this is not possible, ask for as much information by way of photos, property descriptions and any available documents. It is strongly recommended to seek the advice of a surveyor to the condition of the property as this could affect the ability to raise finance.
Prior to an auction, do as much research as possible to determine a property’s market value. If not purchasing through a Buying Agent, then speak with local estate agents to try and determine local values, as well as using online portals.
Finance
Buyers will need to have their finance in place ahead of the auction and have sought professional advice. If successful at an auction you will need to sign a contract and immediately pay a 10% deposit and find the remainder of the purchase money by the time Completion of the sale takes place which is generally between four and eight weeks later.
Legals
The seller will provide a legal pack, which will be available to be downloaded free of charge on the auctioneer’s website.
If all the above is satisfactory purchasers are ready to register to BID. They may bid in person (where applicable), online, on the telephone or a proxy bid may be left with the auctioneers.
As Andrew says: “As bidders are fully involved in the whole process they can be assured and comforted that they have paid the market price for the property which is why we have so many happy customers”.
By understanding the auction process, setting a clear budget, researching the property, and ensuring you have the necessary financing, you can maximize your chances of a successful purchase.
Whatever stage you are at in the search for your perfect home, we’d love to chat.
Open plan ground floor retail premies positioned on Oxford Street in Totterdown with neighbouring national retailers and ample staff and customer parking on-site.
Quoting Rent £18,000 per annum, exclusive
Flexible lease terms available!
TO LET 14 St Mary Street, Thornbury, Bristol
905 sq ft (84.12 sq m)
An exceptional open plan bright and airy ground floor retail / office unit positioned at The St Mary’s Centre in Thornbury. Includes one allocated car parking space to the rear and ample customer / staff parking nearby.
Quoting Rent £15,000 per annum, exclusive
Flexible lease terms available!
Tom Coyte
BRISTOL & CLIFTON’S PREMIER COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AGENTS
Keep up-to-date with our latest news, deals, testimonials and market comment at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
Canford Lane, Bristol TO LET – £16,500 pax
506 sq ft (47 sq m)
An exceptional opportunity to let a ground floor commercial unit on the popular and busy Canford Lane. Available Summer 2025.
The Courtyard, Almondsbury SUITES TO LET - POA
403 – 1,895 sq ft (37.44– 176.05 sq m)
Open plan self contained office suites refurbished to provide contemporary office space.
Larger suites with a rent of only £10 per sq ft, providing excellent
Whiteladies Road, BS8 TO LET – POA
693 - 1,010 – 1,703 sq ft (64.4 – 93.7 - 158.10 sq m)
Attractive offices, refurbished to a contemporary standard. Car parking also available by separate negotiation. New flexible lease terms available.
City Road, Bristol FOR SALE - £375,000 1,771 sq ft (164.53 sq m)
Queen Square, BS1 TO LET – POA
1,909 – 4,192 sq ft (177.35 – 389.44 sq m)
An impressive pair of period buildings available to lease individually, or as a pair and undergoing a striking transformation to provide superb office accommodation.
East Street, Bedminster TO LET - POA
4,025 sq ft (373.93 sq m)
Large retail unit to let, with strong passing footfall on East Street. Class E-suitable for a variety of commercial uses.
Located on City Road, within the increasingly popular Stokes Croft area in Bristol. Arranged over ground, first, second and basement floors with scope for redevelopment to various residential uses subject to the relevant consents.
Barnack Trading Centre, BS3
TO LET - £13,000 pax
802 sq ft (74.5 sq m)
A mid terrace industrial unit in a fantastic location incorporating first floor offices. On site car parking. Flexible lease terms available.
Berkeley Square, BS8 FOR SALE – POA
4,015 sq ft (372.99 sq m)
A fabulous opportunity to create a magnificent family home in the upper terrace of Clifton’s renowned Berkeley Square, with ample parking. May also suit investors seeking to benefit from high levels of income currently produced within the property.
Colston Street, BS1 TO LET – £18.95 PSF
2,620 sq ft (243.4 sq m)
A modern, open plan floor plate due to be refurbished to provide contemporary space. 2 parking spaces, passenger lift and bike storage are also available. Very competitive rent! Large basement store also available.
Etloe Road, BS6 TO LET – POA
1,273 sq ft (118.27 sq m)
A ground floor, self-contained “Class E” premises available to let in the popular suburb of Westbury Park. May suit a range of uses.
Tom Coyte
LEASE YOUR OWN SELF CONTAINED OFFICE AT THE COURTYARD, ALMONDSBURY FOR ONLY £10 PSF PAX
• Open plan, self contained office suites with their own front doors!
• Refurbished to provide contemporary office space
• Suites from approximately 403 sq ft – 1,895 sq ft (37.44 sq m—176.08 sq m)
• Larger suites with a rent of only £10 per sq ft, providing excellent rental value
• Generous on site parking provision and ample off street car parking
• Good access to the M4/M5 interchange, with Junction 16 M5 within approximately 1.5 miles
Further information can be obtained via the joint agent: Burston Cook:
tom@burstoncook.co.uk
Bristol | Guide Price £1,000,000
A distinguished Grade II Listed apartment in the heart of Clifton, impeccably refurbished by Moon Design, featuring a private garage and elegantly landscaped private front and rear gardens.
Stunning Grade II Listed Georgian apartment of circa 2,000 sq. ft. | Extensively refurbished by Moon Design | Central Clifton Village location | Private garage to the rear, accessed via an electric gate | Extensive storage options both internally and externally | Three double bedrooms and a study | Private walled rear southwest-facing courtyard garden and a generous front garden | Offered with no onward chain | EPC: D
