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THE
Issue 127
I
JANuARY 2015
BRIST O L THE MAGAZINE FOR THE CITY OF BRISTOL www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk
M A G A £3.00 Z Iwhere Nsold E
GREEN CITY BRISTOL DONS ITS GREEN HAT
GET RHYTHM: DANCE AWAY THE WINTER BLUES
COMEDY GOLD: BRISTOL’S SLAPSTICK FESTIVAL 2015
WILD STYLE: ANIMAL PRINTS FOR GROWN UPS
TASTE THE SUN: MEDITERRANEAN FLAVOURS AT AQUILA
SAIL AWAY: LUKE JERRAM’S LATEST ART INSTALLATION
H A P P Y N E W Y E A R F R O M T H E C I T Y ’ S F I N E S T M O N T H LY G U I D E T O L I F E A N D L I V I N G I N B R I S T O L
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THE | CONTENTS
2015 JANUARY 40
32
56
26 12
48
ZEITGEIST
40
Five things to do this month
14
THE CITYIST
LUKE JERRAM
BARTLEBY 48
STYLE FILE
WRITTEN IN THE STARS
RETAIL THERAPY
WIN
50
BRISTOL HISTORY
FACE THE MUSIC
52
BRISTOL 2015
54
FOOD & DRINK NEWS
BRISTOL AT WORK
56
FOOLING AROUND
58
WHAT’S ON
68
Loads to do to keep the January blues at bay 4 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
Discover Blaise Castle and Kingsweston
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88
GARDENING Get a gravel garden growing
JANUARY 2015
96
HOMES ON SHOW Mix business and pleasure
98
PROPERTY The best homes in and around Bristol
THE
RESTAURANT REVIEW
BRI ST OL twitter@thebristolmag
WINTER RETREAT BRISTOL UPDATES Who’s doing what this month
Bristol’s Slapstick Comedy Festival
34
OUT AND ABOUT
Eco luxury at The Wild Swan
The juiciest business in the city
32
86
What’s cooking this month
A taste of Italy
Our year as European Green Capital
30
A blissful experience at Harvey Nichols
The city’s secret waterways
Going for a song with musician Laura Kidd
26
BEAUTY REVIEW
Explore Jupiter, king of the planets
Shop till you drop at Gunwharf Quays
24
78
...tells us all about his latest installation
Our new stylist talks top trends
23
ARTS & EXHIBITIONS
FIT AND FAB Detox time
All the latest shows from the city’s finest galleries
46
The home improvements movement
20
44
PEOPLE & PARTIES Snapshots from the city’s social scene
18
74
Dance yourself fit for 2015
My Bristol, the buzz & book of the month
16
TWINKLE TOES
FREELANCE MUM Gets creative with upcycling
ON THE COVER TBM celebrates our city’s status as European Green Capital
MAGAZINE
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Sneyd Park
A recently built and immaculately presented detached home (2,485 sq ft) found on the boundary of the ever popular area of Sneyd Park and Bristol’s iconic Durdham Downs. 1/2 reception rooms, kitchen/dining room, 4/5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, garden and ample parking and access to a double garage. EPC rating C.
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
Guide price: £950,000
Abbots Leigh
Stylish and contemporary family home (8,193 sq ft) positioned in a peaceful valley. 5 reception rooms, kitchen. 6 ensuite bedrooms, gym, wine cellar. Gardens, garage, paddock. In all about 4.8 acres. EPC rating A. Guide price £3,250,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
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Sneyd Park
An immaculately refurbished period hall floor apartment (2,080 sq ft) offering an immense amount of space, with many retained period features and double garage. 2 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, 2 bathrooms, courtyard garden, communal garden, private parking. EPC rating E.
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
Guide price: £699,950
Sneyd Park
Immaculate 4 bedroom period family home (2,829 sq ft) overlooking Bristol's Durdham Downs. 3 reception rooms, large kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, cellar. Master bedroom with ensuite shower room, 3 further bedrooms, bathroom. Gardens, parking. Guide price: £1,250,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
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Clifton
Impressive family townhouse (4,647 sq ft) on the edge of Clifton College. 3 reception rooms, open plan kitchen / dining / sitting room. 6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms (1 ensuite), laundry room, utility. Paved garden, garage. EPC rating E.
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
Guide price: £2,000,000
Portishead
Grade II listed house (3,655 sq ft) overlooking St Peter's Church. 3 reception rooms, kitchen / breakfast room, garden room, utility room. 5/6 bedrooms, ensuite bathroom, 3 shower rooms (2 ensuites). One bed annexe, off road parking, circa 0.5 acres of flat level garden to the rear. Guide price: £895,000
KnightFrank.co.uk/bristol bristol@knightfrank.com 0117 3171999
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H
appy New Year! And what a year 2015 promises to be for Bristol. As the UK’s first city to be awarded European Green Capital, the spotlight will be focussed on us over the next few months as the world watches to see what we can bring to the eco agenda. We’ve risen to the challenge spectacularly, creating a jam-packed programme of events that demonstrates our commitment to sustainable urban living and celebrates many of the great grassroot initiatives that have shaped the city’s green outlook. Intrigued? You should be. Whatever your age and interests, there will be something for you – from tech conferences, to art installations, to tree planting. So turn to page 26 to find out all about our great green city, and a few of the events you can look forward to. But if all that sounds a bit earnest, you can always lighten the mood with a trip to the Bristol Slapstick Comedy Festival (Thursday 22 – Sunday 25 January). Fancy taking in a classic film from the golden age of silent cinema, finding out more about Aardman’s beloved Morph, or seeing how our modern comedy legends have been influenced by comics of the past? Then turn to page 32 to see what’s on offer. Not sold on slapstick? Never mind, there is another dramatic treat coming to the city this month… the National Theatre’s award-winning production of War Horse. Adapted from the children’s novel by Michael Morpurgo, this play combines brilliant acting with awesome puppetry to tell a tale of friendship that crosses boundaries of age, class, country, politics, and even species (page 38). Despite these diversions, you can’t get away from the fact that a new year has dawned, and with it come the usual resolutions to shape up and get healthy. A commendable sentiment indeed, but easier said (at midnight on 31 December, glass of champagne in hand) than done (at 6am on the 2 January when you should be going out for your first jog across the Downs). Getting fit doesn’t have to be hell, though, as Hannah Stuart-Leach finds out when she takes a spin round some of the dance classes on offer in Bristol (page 40). Instead of slogging it out on the treadmill, you could tango your way to a 26 inch waist, or salsa into your skinny jeans – and have a whole lot of fun in the process. If that isn’t enough to spur you on, why not turn to our Style File feature on page 20 and let stylist Harriet de Winton tempt you with her pick of top trends for January. Think you’re too old for animal print? Think again. There is a range of funky items on offer that can add a subtle touch of glamour to your wardrobe, if you are prepared to take a walk on the wild side. And what better way to spruce up your wardrobe than getting away for a dedicated shopping weekend? This month we have two competitions offering the chance to win just that. You can choose from Gunwharf Quays, the south’s leading retail outlet and home to over 90 famous brands, on page 23, or Kilver Court Designer Village on page 76. Since we appreciate a second opinion is always valued you can also take a friend, and once you’ve shopped till you drop you can both retire to your room to enjoy a good night’s sleep. There’s so much to do in the city this month you’re sure to find something to banish those January blues. So make yourself a cuppa, settle down on the sofa and start reading. Oh, and in the spirit of Bristol 2015, don’t forget to recycle your mag when you’ve finished – it could be reincarnated as anything from fancy stationery to wall insulation. Or, if you’re the crafty type, why not take a leaf out of Freelance Mum’s (page 68) book and upcycle it?
JENNY HAYES ACTING EDITOR
All paper used to make this magazine is taken from good sustainable sources and we encourage our suppliers to join an accredited green scheme. Magazines are now fully recyclable. By recycling magazines, you can help to reduce waste and contribute to the six million tonnes of paper already recycled by the UK paper industry each year. Please recycle this magazine, but if you are not able to participate in a recycling scheme, then why not pass your magazine on to a friend or colleague.
WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
JANUARY 2015
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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 11
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ZEITGEIST
The top
5
things to do in JANUARY
All aglow
I Up for a laugh Slapstick’s Silent Comedy Gala returns to the Colston Hall on Friday 23 January at 7.30pm, featuring the very best in classic silent comedy, accompanied live by world class musicians who specialise in performing at silent cinema screenings across the globe. This year’s films show stand-out performances from some of the silent era’s bestloved comedians – Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. Also showing will be Charlie Chaplin’s satirical comic masterpiece The Immigrant (1917), and Stan and Ollie’s finest tit-for-tat classic Big Business (1929). Tickets: £10 – £25 from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.
On the run What better way to stick to your New Year’s resolution to get fit than to sign up for the 2015 Bristol 10k? It takes place on Sunday 31 May, so there’s plenty of time to build up your fitness slowly to ensure you are in tip top condition. And who knows, you may even want to continue and do the Bristol Half Marathon in September! You can run for yourself, or for your favourite charity if that will spur you on to try that little bit harder. Entry opens this month, although at the time of going to press the exact date was yet to be confirmed so, sign up for updates at: www.runbristol.com.
t’s your last chance to catch the Festival of Light at Longleat, which runs until Sunday 4 January. Brand new for winter 2014/2015, this spectacular display of giant Chinese lanterns is the first of its kind in Europe, and is guaranteed to have all ages gasping in wonder. It’s also a good excuse for a day out with the family before the kiddies go back to school, as there is a special winter safari adventure and ice skating also on offer. Tickets: £25.95 for adults, £20 for children, available online at: www.longleat.co.uk.
Suspend belief Brunel’s Passenger Shed will host a world premiere staging of Walking The Chains, a circus-theatre salute to Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol’s best known and best loved landmark, from Tuesday 13 to Sunday 25 January. Thie show features a range of artistic disciplines, and will capture the audacity of the bridge from concept to construction and how it is seen and used today. Contributors to the script include sweethearts who chose the bridge for marriage proposals and the Bristolians who have really experienced ‘walking the chains’. Tickets: £12 – £24 from Colston Hall box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.
A theatrical spectacular in Bristol The National Theatre’s highly acclaimed producion of War Horse is showing at Bristol Hippodrome from Wednesday 14 January to Saturday 14 February. Adapted from the book by Michael Morpurgo, it tells the emotional story of a young boy whose horse is requisitioned to fight in the First World War, and his journey to track him down and bring him home. Tickets available from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com
12 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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JANUARY 2015
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ist
THE CITY THE BUZZ © Eleanor Bentall
My BRISTOL We ask Liz Zeidler, chair of the Green Capital Partnership and Bristol 2015 board member, what she’s doing this month...
Feeling twitchy? Then it’s time to take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch. Taking place over the weekend of Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January, it’s a great opportunity for you and your family to discover who you share your patch with. And it’s not just birds you should look out for and record, the RSPB want to know if you see hedgehogs, badgers, squirrels, or any other interesting creatures in your back garden. Sending your results is easy too, as you can do it online using a smartphone, or via post if you prefer. For full details call the regional office on tel: 01392 432 691, or visit: www.rspb.org.uk
Grab a pen... Because Food Connections is calling for ideas that will help the people of Bristol connect with good food and create lasting change. If you’ve got a plan that will do just that, they’d love to hear from you. The aim of the festival is to bring attention to, and implement projects designed to change the way people eat, while bringing people from all sections of the community together through good food. After a hugely successful inaugural year, Food Connections will be back in the city from 1–9 May with a fresh programme of events that covers six themes: land and growing, wellbeing, feasting and festivities, get cooking, brain food, and families. Lorna Knapman, event director, says: “We want this year’s event to be even bigger and better than last year and we need your help!” So what are you waiting for? Find out what it’s all about and how you can get involved at www.bristolfoodconnections.com
© Adam Gasson
14 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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JANUARY 2015
What brought you to Bristol? Originally university in the 80s and then a return when I was expecting my first child. We wanted to live in a city with enough diversity, culture and people to keep us sane but close enough to see rolling hills and fields. What are you reading? I’ve just finished the brilliant Americana by Chimanda Ngozi Adichie. What’s on your MP3 player? Joan Armatrading’s back catalogue in anticipation of her upcoming Bristol concert, and Bristol’s own Batch Gueye band. Which café or restaurant takes your fancy? It’s so great to have Katie and Kim’s Kitchen open on Picton Street, having been so gutted when they closed their heavenly horse box on Stokes Croft last year. Favourite watering hole? Too many to choose one, but all the Bristol Beer Factory pubs are great... I’d opt for Grain Barge on a sunny evening and the Barley Mow on a winter’s night. Evening in or evening out? Evening in when my wonderful offspring are back from university... eating, laughing, playing cards, watching a movie... perfect.
Film or play? What will you be going to see? It’s got to be Shaun the Sheep – the movie – doesn’t it?! Which museum or gallery will you be visiting? RWA is an under appreciated treasure in the city, and The Artist Collective are doing great things on Jamaica Street. What hobbies or interests will you be pursuing? In between my two jobs and family, the one ‘just for me’ activity of the week is being a member of the mighty Gurt Lush choir. It’s better than therapy! Favourite local walk? So many favourites, we are spoilt for choice in Bristol. Within the city itself it’s probably Badock Wood in the early morning, as the birdsong is spectacular, and with the light coming through the trees, you just can’t believe you are minutes from Southmead Road. Any projects/work in progress? Between running Happy City, a local charity making a global name for itself... And being the chair of Bristol Green Capital Partnership as we enter our European Green Capital year... I’m kept pretty busy. But I'm passionate about both, so I'm lucky that I love what I do. For details, visit: www.bristol2015.co.uk
BOOK OF THE MONTH... Daughter by Jane Shemilt £8.99, paperback (Penguin) Local author Jane Shemilt hit the headlines in the autumn with the publication of her first novel, Daughter. With family life at its centre, this bestselling book focuses on busy GP Jenny Malcolm, her high-flying husband Ted and their three teenage children. Every mother’s worst nightmare comes true when her youngest – beautiful, secretive Naomi – fails to come home after performing in the school play. With the narrative timeframe alternating between the routine days leading up to Naomi’s disappearance, the agonising days afterwards and then life a whole year later, this powerful book reveals the darkness and halftruths at the heart of even the most successful family. A brilliant, disturbing and psychologically revealing page turner, this book is guaranteed to keep you awake at night. Reviewed by Kathryn Atkins of the Durdham Down Bookshop, tel: 0117 973 9095 or visit: www.durdhamcownbooks.co.uk
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BRISTOL | SOCIETY
PEOPLE & PARTIES Snapshots from events, parties and launches in the city
The Above and Beyond team get set to raise funds © Chas Breton
Performers brought the tale of Alice in Wonderland to life © Chas Breton
A night in Wonderland The Old Passenger Shed The Bristol Magazine was delighted to be invited along to Above & Beyond’s Alice in Winterland Christmas party on Tuesday 9 December. This magical evening was organised by Hype PR, and included a sparkling drinks reception, delicious three course meal and great entertainment by performers from the Invisible Circus. Many local businesses and fundraisers attended, and the evening raised some £5,000 for the Bristol hospitals’ charity. For more information about their work, visit: www.aboveandbeyond.org.uk
▲
Above & Beyond and friends: (L-R front row) Deborah Lee, Andrew Hollowood, Alex Lovell and John Flanagan; (L-R back row) Fynn Clarke, Clare Benjamin and Sarah TalbotWilliams of Above & Beyond, Aluel de Garang and Rob Buckland © Chas Breton
Go Wylde Avery Wine Cellars
Seath Herbert, Carrie Eichstedt and Rose Walter from Artworks © Dominika Scheibinger
Party-goers, including Richard Mojel, his wife Evelyn and Manjit Silvester Jahli, all from Maven © Dominika Scheibinger
16 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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JANUARY 2015
Bristol interior design company Wylde IA celebrated 18 years in business with a fabulous party, where guests were treated to an evening of musical merriment with an enchanted woodland theme. To further mark this coming of age milestone, Wylde IA have launched a Happiest Workplace 2015 competition for the south west. The company wants to find out exactly what makes a great workplace and, therefore, happy staff. Is it all about air hockey tables in reception, astroturf in the lift and inflatable break-out igloos or is there more to it than that? Let them know what you think by logging on to www.wyldeia.co.uk and completing an entry form. Closing date Saturday 28 February and the winner will receive a desk makeover and plaque.
Laura Benito, Amy Stone, Jenny Eiberg, Maxine Bennett and Tracey Wylde from Wylde IA © Dominika Scheibinger
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Oriental rugs of bath at Bookbarn International Hand-made,beautifully crafted traditional rugs from all over the Orient.
January Sale
T: 01761 451764 • www.orientalrugsofbath.com
A great day out, in one location! Bookbarn International,Wells Road, Hallatrow, Bristol BS39 6EX
bookbarn@bookbarninternational.com • T: 01761 451333 www.bookbarninternational.com
Our Vendors will be having a Happy New Year
George Cross
Cartier Brooch
Chinese Centre table
Famille Rose Bowl
£12,400
£23,500
£14,800
£8,000
Clevedon Salerooms recent Specialist Sale resulted in some very happy Vendors, all of whom will be having a somewhat better Christmas than expected. If you have items you may be thinking of selling why not attend one of our free valuation days listed below or email us an image to valuation@clevedon-salerooms.com If you are looking for interesting items to furnish your home, including vintage, retro and antique furniture as well as collector’s items, works of art, silver & jewellery, in fact, anything we think you may want to buy, why not come for a day out at Clevedon Salerooms. You won’t go home disappointed and certainly not empty-handed!
Interiors, Antiques, Collectables & Jewellery Auction Thurs 8th & Thurs 22nd January at 10am On view day before, 10am – 7.30pm and sale day from 9am to start
--------------------------------------------------
FREE VALUATION DAYS at the Salerooms
12, 13, 14 & 26, 27, 28 January 9.30 – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm
WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Fine Art Auctioneers & Valuers The Auction Centre Kenn Road, Kenn Clevedon, BS21 6TT
Tel: 01934 830111 www.clevedon-salerooms.com
JANUARY 2015
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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 17
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THE
B R I S TOL MAGAZINE Follow us on Twitter @thebristolmagazine
Room at the top
H
ere at Bartleby Towers it sounds as though someone is performing root canal surgery on the house. The entire building is shaking and juddering. Then the drilling stops and the banging starts again. Some more drilling, then a saw starts up. A crash. An oath. Then the drill again. I’m beginning to wish I had an office to go to, or at least a garden shed. The people converting our loft for habitation have already done five houses on our street. There are rental properties whose landlords want to squeeze in one more young professional, but most conversions are being carried out by homeowners with growing families. During the first crazy years of the property boom – the gold rush years, if you will – people solved their space issues by moving house. Often that meant relocating to a different neighbourhood, which is fine if your kids are little and you have a) the money and b) the energy to move. There had been a spate of loft conversions a generation earlier, but by the turn of the millennium building regulations had become so ridiculous that people were put off taking the add-a-room route. Most absurd was the rule that every internal door had to be replaced by a heavy fire door with one of those self-closing whatsits. As well as being massive, expensive and hazardous to small children, these doors were also pointless, since people just wedged them open.
❝
I’M BEGINNING TO WISH I HAD AN OFFICE TO GO TO, OR AT LEAST A GARDEN SHED
❞
Nobody wants their house turned into a hostel so for a while people stopped converting. Then someone with a degree of common sense was put in charge of the regulatory system and the rules swiftly changed, although there are still a few daft regulations – in the sense that nobody takes any notice of them. For instance, if you live in a three-storey house and have a loft conversion, the bottom storey has to be sealed off from the rest of the building, with a wall and a door. This tends to create a nasty dark corridor in a place where nobody wants one, so people put up a temporary wall, have the house passed by the inspectors, then take it down again. A roundabout way of pleasing everybody, I suppose, if not especially ecofriendly. In fact the whole loft business is a win-win-type situation, so long as house prices don’t collapse, since the addition of an extra room should make your house worth more. More important in the short term, perhaps, is the opportunity for parents of adolescent children to create a hideaway in the roof, which is about as far away as you can get from exuberant teens without actually moving house. However all this is a bit old hat these days. The real adventurers on our road are not looking skywards but down, into the ground. One neighbour has just dug about twenty skipfuls of clay out of their basement, in a bid to create a sprawling open plan kitchen in the lower depths of a Victorian terrace house. I have to say that the sight of all that clay was quite reassuring – good to see that the street wasn’t built on sand – but as skip after skip filled up it did make me wonder where the stuff was coming from. Presumably there are rules about basements as there are about lofts, but I can’t help thinking about that prison-break classic The Shawshank Redemption. Remember how the Tim Robbins character dug a tunnel with a tiny pick, concealing the hole in his cell wall behind a poster? Presumably there’s nothing to stop a particularly adventurous homeowner tunnelling under their garden, or the road, or their neighbours’ property, creating a fantastic subterranean chamber and then concealing the entrance behind a false wall – or a door masquerading as a set of bookshelves. In certain parts of Bristol it should be possible to dig down into the old coal workings beneath the city… The possibilities are endless. n 18 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
| JANUARY 2015
Acting Editor Tel: Email:
Jenny Hayes 0117 974 2800 jenny@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Deputy Editor Email:
Georgette McCready georgette@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Production Manager Email:
Jeff Osborne production@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Publisher Email:
Steve Miklos steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
Advertising Sales
Kathy Williams Sue Parker Tia Williams Liz Grey
For advertising enquiries please contact us on: 0117 974 2800 Email: sales@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Financial Director Email:
Jane Miklos jane@thebristolmagazine.co.uk
The Bristol Magazine is published by MC Publishing Ltd. An independent publisher. The Bristol Magazine is distributed free every month to more than 20,000 homes and businesses throughout the city. We also have special distribution units in the following stores and many coffee shops, hotels and convenient pick-up points.
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BRIST OL MAGAZINE Bristol and Exeter House, Lower Approach, Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QS Telephone: 0117 974 2800 www.thebristolmagazine.co.uk © MC Publishing Ltd 2014 Disclaimer: Whilst every reasonable care is taken with all material submitted to The Bristol Magazine, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such material. Opinions expressed in articles are strictly those of the authors. This publication is copyright and may not be reproduced in any form either in part or whole without written permission from the publishers.
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THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE 19
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BRISTOL | FASHION
STYLE FILE Bristol stylist Harriet de Winton has been busy rummaging through the rails of some of our favourite high street and independent boutiques to find items that will help you navigate the new year trends
D
eciding what to wear is, for many of us, the most creative part of our day. Without saying a single word we can project to the wider world who we are – at least on that particular morning! And this type of personal expression is as easily found at a jumble sale as it is a designer store. I’ve always enjoyed the process of getting dressed. It’s not unusual for me to start the day in a blast of colour and pattern only to walk out the door, a few hours later, dressed in a white shirt and jeans. Later still, I may return home to change again. Thank goodness my career as a costume designer and stylist means I can also dress other people for a living. Growing up, I lived in a uniform of GAP hoodies and straight leg jeans. While my friends and I treated fashion as a fun experiment, our pocket money would only stretch to a few purchases a year (this was long before New Look, let alone Primark). Luckily, I was not then (nor have I become) one to shop till I drop. Aged 13, this lack of funds meant I took a forensically cautious approach – an average of six Saturday visits to Miss Selfridge were needed to come away with a single vest top. Fast forward to my mid-twenties, with a little more money, I discovered I wanted to spend it on quality not quantity. Which meant I was still only able to buy one item at a time with long intervals in between. Leaving me with the
problem of how to pull a comprehensive ‘look’ together. I spent my time dreaming of a minimalist capsule wardrobe, but such stilted shopping left me with a cupboard resembling an artist’s paint palette, with snatches of colour and texture from many a style renaissance. I now use this eclectic mix to my sartorial advantage and my wardrobe remains as ever-evolving as fashion itself. The internet has revolutionised how we can view fashion; it has opened the ‘members only’ door and allowed emerging graduates and independent designers alike international exposure for their collections. This has resulted in many labels, as well as many styles, gracing my closet and my person. This is why the Bristol Style File will focus as much on independent and local designers as it will on better known labels. After all, in a season where the monogram is key and personal touches allow you stand out from the crowd, what could be better than meeting your designer face to face? Though the price tag may be a little higher with a bespoke, independent designer, for this long time collector of fashion it is worth it to be truly individual. Each month I intend to show you my favourite picks of the current trends, how to update pieces you already have, where to spend and when to save. Starting this month with…..
... the print that went from cub to king The ever-popular animal print became seriously endangered with the rise of the tribal print. Neither are fail-safe choices: one conjures up images of brassy barmaids, while the other a neon mini-skirt on a glamping festival goer. Autumn/Winter 14 has seen an entente cordiale break out between these two frantic designs and we now have a plethora of artistic, abstract prints caught somewhere between the two. In classic colour palettes to suit every age and skin tone, these prints are all grown up. They now adorn items you want to wear again and again – to the office, to the bar, and down the high street for all to see. Hobbs at the Mall Cribbs Causeway has an impressive line in alternative animal and tribal prints in their SS 15 range*
Our shoot location was new arrival on the Bristol drinking scene Strawberry Thief, an elegant beer bar on Broad Street that is named after one of the bestknown wallpaper patterns created by William Morris (pictured). Broad Street also had a strong association with the printing industry in the past, and the Edward Everard Building opposite was home to one of the city’s most prolific printing firms. www.strawberrythiefbar.com 26 Broad Street, Bristol BS1 2HG United Kingdom 0117 925 6925
Do you have a wardrobe worry that Harriet could help with? Opposite page: 1. Ingenue Belle Watercolour Blue Leopard wrap dress £92, Amulet Boutique 2. Patterned knit poncho £59.99, Zara 3. Animal print trousers £29.99, Zara 4. Carrbridge Bracelet £9.50, Jack Wills 5. Skinny Dip Bee Iphone 5 Case £18, Office 6. Rodnik X Peanuts Snoopy Shoulder Bag £66.50, Urban Outfitters 7. Faux fur huff (hat/earmuff) Helen Moore £24.99, Amulet Boutique. *Please note that product images shown are examples from current stock and subject to availability. 20 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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Email her at harriet@harrietdewinton.com, and we might publish her answer
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BRISTOL | FASHION
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Ella Hawkey said: “With Harriet’s hair we first worked a soft set, pin curled the nape to accentuate the A-line shape, then blasted the curls out with Label M’s Sea Salt Spray. This creates maximum texture and a contemporary take on vintage waves.” www.atelierclifton.co.uk
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Makeup artist Shari Knowles explains how she achieved this radiant look for January: “I prepped the skin with Oilatum before using a Bobbi Brown foundation stick to give a satin finish. To reduce under-eye darkness I used a Bobbi Brown tinted eye brightener and concealer. Finally the lips have a hint of coral and are finished will a clear gloss.”
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6 Snood £50, Amber Hards knitwear, www.amberhards.co.uk; Vero Moda cable knit jumper £25, and Ingenue CeCe Trousers in Chocolate Snake Print £54.00, both from Amulet Boutique, www.amuletjewellery.co.uk; boots stylist’s own.
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FIVE MINUTE FASHION FIX As a DIY Fashion Stylist, I also want to show you how easy it is to achieve some of these looks with what you have already. These boots were pretty forgettable, now with newly covered heels they will stay in my wardrobe for years to come. Because I only needed less than 1/4 metre of fabric I splashed out on a Liberty Print from www.sewbox.co.uk
You will need: • A pair of shoes with block heels • Lightweight fabric to cover each heel • Pattern paper • Fabric scissors • Paper scissors • All-purpose glue 1. Make a pattern for your heel using pattern paper. Remember to include a small seam allowance that will be folded under later.
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2. Trace around the pattern onto your fabric and cut it out. Then do this again, for your other heel. 3. Dab all-purpose glue onto a small section of the heel (starting at the base and working upwards) and secure the fabric in place, turning under any raw edges and tugging it taut so there are no crinkles.
For step-by-step diagrams and lots more fast fixes like this, visit Harriet’s blog: www.fixuplookchic.blogspot.co.uk
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Sale shopping SOS Get sale savvy with The Mall at Cribbs Causeway
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tressed by the prospect of January sales? Don’t worry, The Mall at Cribbs Causeway has some top tips to help you keep calm and grab those bargains this sale season. Sales don’t have to be taxing – with the right approach, it can be the perfect time to update your wardrobe at a fraction of the cost. Being a savvy sale shopper is all about purpose, so to help you go in armed with a plan, we’ve come up with some failsafe methods: Do a wardrobe edit: Many people approach the sales suffering from an acute case of FOMO (fear of missing out) and as a result, they grab the first things they see and buy them without thinking. Combat this by doing a thorough wardrobe edit beforehand – chuck out things you haven’t worn in over a year, look at what’s left and see what pieces you need to complete your looks. Invest in staples: The sales are a great time to pick up good quality wardrobe staples that you can mix and match with things you already own. Items like coloured polo necks, simple tees and tailored trousers are great investment pieces that you’ll be able to pick up for a fraction of the cost, so don’t waste the opportunity. Shop ahead: As well as buying what you want to wear now, think about next year’s trends when shopping in the sales. A statement coat that’s classic in style will get worn again, so that’s an ideal sale purchase. Also, watch for khaki colours, which will be really big for Spring/Summer. Accessorize: Sales are a great time for experimenting with accessories as you can pick them up for a lot less than you usually would and try things you may not have considered at full price. Items like scarves and necklaces are great outfit builders, so mix up your style with a few key purchases.
Keep an eye on the trends: The key to successful sale shopping is having one eye towards future trends so that you can invest in things you’ll get wear from. Here’s what to watch for this time around… Spots and stars: These two prints will be coming back for Spring Summer 2015, so if you see them in the sale they’re worth snapping up now. Say it with suede: There’s quite a bit of suede around at the moment and this trend is likely to continue into next year, so investing in a suede bag or shoes now could be worthwhile. Military/utility: Khaki colours, belted trench coats and details like frogging will be big news next season, so get your mitts on them now if you can, as you’ll definitely wear them again. Statement denims: Embellished garments are big news for 2015, particularly denims, so if you see any in the sales, grab them with both hands! Alternatively, plain garments that fit you well and can be customised would also be worth looking at. The Mall posts details of all its retailer offers on the website. Check out mallcribbs.com for further details. Please note that the garments shown are taken from current stock and are subject to availability – jumpsuit £159 Marks and Spencer, Sabrina Luxe Statement Necklace £35 Accessorize. 22 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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SHOPPING | COMPETITION
WIN A NEW LOOK FOR THE NEW YEAR
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ith sales season in full swing, the New Year brings with it the opportunity to treat yourself to a wardrobe makeover without the guilt-inducing price tags. To celebrate this special time in the shopping calendar, we have teamed up with the latest must-visit shopping destination, Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth, to give you the chance to win a memorable shopping experience for you and a friend. If you’re not already in the know, Gunwharf Quays is the South’s leading premium retail outlet and home to over 90 famous brands, including L.K.Bennett, Hobbs, French Connection, Ted Baker, All Saints, Coast and Mint Velvet. All these stores offer at least a third off regular retailer prices, so at this time of year you can expect even better sales bargains. Located right next door to Portsmouth Harbour station, the journey from Bristol Temple Meads to Gunwharf Quays is very straightforward, with trains running every hour, so it’s the ideal place for a serious shopping day with friends or even a weekend getaway – just what we need to escape the January blues! The discount prices on offer at Gunwharf Quays’ famous brands provide the perfect opportunity to invest in classic pieces like warm winter coats, stylish shoes and must-have bags that will last a lifetime. Now is also the time of year to look ahead to spring and stock up on styles that will help you transition into the new season – floaty bohemian fabrics, denim and pattern, from gingham to florals, are all going to be huge in 2015. While you’re there, why not take the chance to refresh your makeup bag too and treat yourself to some new goodies for your bathroom from The Cosmetics Company, The Body Shop, Molton Brown and Crabtree & Evelyn. And don’t forget to pop in to The White Company to stock up on luxurious fabrics and fragrances to your home. After a busy day hitting the shops, one of the best things about Gunwharf Quays has to be its wide range of cosmopolitan harbourside cafés, bars and restaurants. With tasty treats on offer from the likes of Jamie’s Italian, Carluccio’s and Brasserie Blanc, you have all the excuses you need to relax
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with a few cocktails and dinner while you peruse your purchases. If you like the sound of a seaside shopping spree and mini-break, we’re offering one lucky reader the chance to win an unforgettable shopping experience at Gunwharf Quays. This exciting prize package includes a £250 Gunwharf Quays Gift Card, which can be used in a host of fabulous stores or at the eclectic restaurants and bars. We’ll also treat you both to an overnight stay and breakfast at Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Hotel. To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the question below: Which Kate is famed for her love of L.K.Bennett’s beautiful shoes: • • •
Kate Middleton Kate Moss Kate Winslet
Email your answer with your name, address and contact number, with ‘Gunwharf Quays Competition’ in the subject line, to: competitions@thebristolmagazine.co.uk. Deadline for entries Thursday 22 January. Terms & Conditions: All gift cards are registered to the purchaser and the balance can be retrieved should the card be lost or stolen. You can keep track of the balance by visiting www.getmybalance.com or visiting the customer service desk. Please note that all cards are valid for one year from the date they are activated and are only valid at participating retailers – to read the full Terms & Conditions and to view a list of participating stores and restaurants visit: www.gunwharf-quays.com. A stay at Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth Hotel includes parking, Wi-Fi and a full English breakfast. Bookings can made Friday or Sunday after 1 February 2015 and are subject to availability. By entering this competition, you are agreeing that your details may be used for marketing purposes.
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FACE | THE MUSIC
MUSICAL MUSINGS Bristol-based musician Laura Kidd took a break from writing her third album to tell Jane Duffus all about her musical life
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ince moving to Bristol two years ago, multi-instrumentalist and singer Laura Kidd – aka She Makes War – has firmly established herself as a musical star from our city. In fact, when we catch up for this interview, Laura is only just home after a 35-date tour around Europe with The Levellers and The Selecter – she’s one busy lady. But it must be tough being away from home, and her adorable dog Benji, for so long? “Touring is something I feel really comfortable doing, it’s exciting seeing new sights every day and I’m happy living out of a suitcase,” says Laura. “I want to live a musical life full of gigs and travel and creating new things, whether that’s songs or unique moments in a live show, so being the travelling troubadour suits me. It’s actually weirder to go home and deal with not being in constant motion, but there are obvious upsides… including the company of my lovely pooch!” Laura moved to Bristol after a decade of living in London and like so many others who have also made the move from the capital, she has quickly fallen in love with our city. “I love that it’s small enough to travel around quickly and easily, which makes maintaining friendships a lot easier than it was in London,” she explains. “Also the venues and promoters here are open to bands getting involved and putting on their own gigs, which is a big part of what I have been doing for the last three years. I really love The Birdcage, The Thunderbolt and The Fleece.” Laura describes the music she makes as She Makes War as “gloom-pop… because it’s grungy and thoughtful and sometimes sad”. And through her work she has worked with a staggering range of other performers, including Bristol’s very own Tricky as well as Norwegian pop stars a-ha. “But as She Makes War, I have to say two high points were singing with Tanya Donelly at Bristol’s Trinity Centre on her song Slow Dog, and singing backing vocals on This Garden with The Levellers when touring with them,” says Laura. “I’ve been a fan of both those bands since I was a teenager so to get to meet the people responsible for such great music was exciting and to sing with them was an honour I’ll never forget.” As She Makes War, Laura is fiercely independent but committed to making the best music she possibly can. So she is currently crowdfunding to record and release her third album, Direction of Travel. “For this new album I wanted to have a better budget to be able to hire in some friends as musical guests, have a decent number of studio days and a bit of money left over to use for music videos and photography,” Laura explains. “Hence turning to Pledge Music to try and raise the money by encouraging people who like my music to pre-order the album and select from an array of rewards, all sorts of limited edition extras, experiences and tour tickets.” For more information on Laura’s crowdfunding campaign and her upcoming gigs, please visit her website: www.shemakeswar.com
Laura’s top 10: ❶ Mother’s Pride by Carina Round The woefully underrated and utterly fantastic Carina Round is the queen of the killer first line, and this song about ageing has one of the best: “Mother mother, you are a disgusting liar”. She’s also one of my favourite singers, travelling from soft and silky to wailing banshee in seconds. She’s a big inspiration. ❷ I Love You But I’m Lost by Sharon Van Etten It’s clearly a deeply personal song and I like that some of the details make no sense to the casual listener but the song is still utterly heartbreaking. I was listening to it a lot during a sad time recently and the line “tearstains on the last page” couldn’t have been more apt. ❸ Until Tomorrow Then by Ed Harcourt I’m a hopeless romantic, so the lyrics of this song really speak to me: “Navigate to the moon, flee the planet this afternoon”. I love how casual the instruction is to leave behind a whole world for the one you love. WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
❹ Fountain by PJ Harvey Dry was the first album I ever heard where there was more to a woman’s perspective than simply falling in love with a man. It’s such a two fingers up to pop music, yet it propelled PJ Harvey to big things. And she was writing those songs when she was 17. Incredible! ❺ On And On by The Longpigs For the longest time I loved this song because I thought it was a really beautiful sentiment to love someone “on and on”. Over the summer I was learning the song to perform at a Britpop show I did at the Edinburgh Fringe, and I realised what a twisted love story it actually is! It’s funny how the true meaning of a song you hold so dear and sing along to so much can elude you until you really pay attention. ❻ Cathedral Heat by Kristin Hersh As well as being part of a fantastic canon of work by the inimitable and highly inspiring Kristin Hersh, this song contains one of my very favourite bass lines – it’s simple, melodic and commands attention. I remember the moment I first heard this song back in my London student days, and it will always have a special place in my musical heart. ❼ This Is A Low by Blur Blur were my favourite band bar none for a very, very long time, and this song never fails to send me into a reverie. Sometimes music gets to me so strongly that I have to stop everything for a minute and remember to breathe, and this song always has that effect. ❽ Spinning Plates by Radiohead (live version) This recording has the same effect as I described above – the melody is really squashed and heavily effected on the recorded version, which I love, but the chorus melody on the I Might Be Wrong live album is transcendent. ❾ D.N.R. by Jesca Hoop This is literally a song about two sisters gathering in a hospital where a “do not resuscitate” order is in place for their father, who has tried to commit suicide again. It’s so specific and so detailed, very sad and delicately written. If it’s a real scenario then it’s brave to share it and I respect that bravery very much. ❿ My Sex by Elastica The second Elastica album didn’t do it for me nearly as much as the first one, which remains an impeccable piece of work in my opinion. But this spoken word song is absolutely devastating. Written about the bad bits of Justine Frischmann’s ill-fated relationship with Blur’s Damon Albarn, the line “What I want is a room with a three-bar fire, like the one you had before, when you were poor and I just liked you more” gives me tingles down my spine. n JANUARY 2015
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GREEN | CAPITAL
SPECIAL FEATURE
BRISTOL 2015 As the city starts its year as European Green Capital, Jenny Hayes looks at why we won and what we can look forward to
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e Bristolians have always known that we live in a pretty great city, but nonetheless it was rather rewarding to find out that the rest of Europe thought so too – at least when it comes to all things eco – when they named us European Green Capital 2015. So what is it about our little pocket of the world that set us apart? We have by no means surpassed the green credentials of previous winners such as Stockholm and Copenhagen, but by goodness are we trying to improve. A quick glance out of the office window tells me we’ve still got terrible problems with traffic congestion, yet the number of cyclists weaving in and out of the cars is the perfect example of just how committed many Bristolians are to living sustainably. And it’s impressive. Despite being one of the hilliest cities in the UK we are home to the most cyclists, with numbers doubling in recent years and set to do so again by 2020. We won the title of England’s first cycling city back in 2008, and have since become home to specialist hire shops, tour companies, cafés and the annual Biggest Bike Ride every June. And it is this positive attitude in the face of apparent adversity, this dedication to improving urban life and the environment, that made us stand out in the eyes of the European Commission, which was looking for a city that is committed to making positive changes and which can act as a model to inspire others. But while all this cycling no doubt goes a long way to ensuring we have the lowest carbon emissions of all the major UK cities, it’s not all we’re good at. Our naturalsurroundings are spectacular, and we are dedicated to conserving them. Take for example the Avon Gorge, a massive great canyon about 70m deep that bisects the city and is home to that most majestic and illusive of creatures, the peregrine falcon, as well as a herd of goats whose sole job is to protect the delicate and rare flora that grows there. And that’s just one of very many unusual and beautiful green spaces within our city. The good news doesn’t end there. Our favourite high streets across the city are filled with independent shops whose numbers are swelling year on year, we have not one but three wonderful city farms, and low carbon economy in the city is
also thriving – currently employing over 9,000 people and with around 50,000 residents involved in eco activities day-to-day. Among these green companies are a number of world-leading organisations, including The Soil Association, The Environment Agency, Triodos Bank and cycle heroes Sustrans. And, as Bristol becomes the first European Green Capital to set up a Strategic Grants Programme dedicated to supporting not-for-profit organisations in delivering fundamental changes that will improve life in our city in the long term, such inspirational endeavours look set to increase. As well as these larger players in the ethical scene, Bristol is leading the way with bottom-up community initiatives that are responding to the 44% rise in population over the last decade with thoughtful, ethical solutions. Once again, grants have been allocated to support existing projects, as well as encouraging the development of new initiatives aimed at educating communities and helping people learn about sustainability. Neighbourhood Partnership Grants will provide £250,000, in increments up to £10,000, for local groups working within their specific community, while the Small Grants Programme offers the same funding to those whose work will benefit the wider city and region. Running concurrently with these economic schemes is an extensive arts initiative that will see Bristol-based artists, cultural institutions and community art groups work together to deliver projects and installations across the city. Ranging from small-scale works to large, attention grabbing pieces, the aim is to clearly illustrate the European Green Capital story so that everyone can appreciate that we have a shared responsibility to create healthier and happier cities, for ourselves and for future generations. So don’t be surprised if you round a corner one day and find yourself face-to-face with a papier-mache polar bear… you have been warned. n As Bristol becomes a focus for sustainable urban living, the European Green Capital award is expected to create over £100 million in economic benefits over three years, through investment, additional business turnover, exports and tourism. For further information about the events taking place, visit: www.bristol2015.co.uk and www.visitbristol.co.uk
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ALL THIS CYCLING NO DOUBT GOES A LONG WAY TO ENSURING WE HAVE LOW CARBON EMISSIONS, BUT IT’S NOT ALL WE’RE GOOD AT
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GREEN | CAPITAL
STARTER FOR 15... Here’s a taste of just a few of the green-themed events and initiatives that will be taking place this year
TREEPIPS This project will see Bristol become the first city in the world to plant a tree for every child that lives here, working with primary schools across the city so that children can connect with the nature around them and learn the importance of protecting and growing our green spaces by planting their very own tree in their local park. The initiative is part of the wider TreeBristol project, which aims to plant a new generation of trees across the city over the next three years, greening-up our urban space with an extra 30% of canopy cover in the years to come. On 5 February, TreePips will plant the millionth tree of the Forestry Commission’s nationwide Big Tree Plant in Eastville Park. Visit: www.bristol.gov.uk or www.forestry.gov.uk
Drink up
Digital Challenge Hack Weekend
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Recycle a Tweet Crush the Twitter trolls and learn the value of upcycling all at once with this playful idea that allows you to submit negative or hateful tweets, and see them transformed into poetry.
YOUTH
An exciting 48-hours in January, when teams of developers will compete to find software solutions that have the potential to tackle environmental challenges in cities across the globe. And the stakes are high, with £50,000 going to the winners to help them develop their idea. Visit: www.bristol2015.co.uk SUMMIT
Young people from across the city will gather together in April for a series of presentations, debates and workshops through which they’ll generate ideas for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21). The culmination of this event will be a rally on Wednesday 22 April, Earth Day, at which they will be able to project their message to the world.
To eliminate the need for plastic bottles, drinking water fountains will be reinstated across Bristol.
UP, UP, AND AWAY… Cameron Balloons will launch the first modern solar hot air balloon at the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in August.
My Wild City Avon Wildlife Trust has developed 20 digital, interactive maps that will help Bristolians find out more about the nature around them. You can see the various habitats that exist in your area, and even zoom into your own back garden to find out what animals are living there and how you can look after them. The maps will also identify the areas in your neighbourhood that could be improved for our city’s wildlife, giving you the opportunity to get involved with conservation and learn more about local nature. To find out how you can help turn Bristol into a citywide nature reserve, visit: www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk
WARM UP BRISTOL Bristol City Council is focussed on making homes across the city as energy efficient as possible, so in February it will be retrofitting an entire street in Easton to show Bristolians how to make older houses warmer using good insulation and other energy saving measures. Visit: www.warmupbristol.co.uk
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GREEN | CAPITAL
Fog Bridge As part of Bristol’s brilliant In Between Time contemporary arts festival, conjurer of unusual weather Fujiko Nakaya will shroud Pero’s Bridge in a veil of fog, transforming it into a visual example of the way in which a changing climate can disrupt our lives. Visit: inbetweentime.co.uk
SOLAR TREE
A tree created by Bristol Drugs Project volunteers, made of solar panels, will be ‘planted’ in Millennium Square to engage people in energy issues. Visit: www.demandenergyequality.org
© Gayle Laird
Withdrawn In April, Luke Jerram will be creating an atmospheric art installation in the beautiful surroundings of Leigh Woods. A flotilla of fishing boats will sail among the trees, long abandoned and forgotten in an evocative and haunting reminder of the decline of the industry due to overfishing. They will be present in the forest for six months, and a programme of talks, workshops and other events will run alongside. In conjunction with The National Trust and the Forestry Commission, for more information, see our interview with Luke on p.46
Out of the Blue A life-size sculpture of a blue whale will swim into Millennium Square in mid-April. Created by community artists out of solely recycled materials, this giant artwork will serve as both an icon of Bristol’s maritime history and an illustration of the fragility of ocean life. You will be able to walk right into its heart, where visual imagery and video installations will immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of the ocean life. Evocative soundscapes will mix whale songs and sounds from the sea with popular music to illustrate and reinforce the connection we have with marine life, and our responsibility to protect it. Visit: www.apeuk.org
Big Green Picnic
The Green Stuff A special Green Capital Bristol Pound note will be produced in 2015 to celebrate the city’s sustainable economy.
Led by the Soil Association’s Food for Life Partnership, Big Green Picnics will take place across Bristol this summer to encourage children and young people to connect with where their food comes from, and inspire families to grow and cook their own food. Already eight picnics are planned around the city, and this number is set to increase as more schools and organisations get involved, so keep your eyes peeled for an event near you. Visit: www.foodforlife.org.uk
On Your Bike Sustrans, one of the city’s most successful charities, celebrates 20 years of its National Cycle Network in 2015. In creating this UK-wide web of high quality, interconnected and convenient walking and cycling routes, Sustrans transformed daily commutes and weekend activities for people across the nation, and considerably reduced the volume of traffic on our roads. Nowadays, almost 5 million people use the Network each year, and Bristol remains renowned as a city of cyclists. Visit: www.sustrans.org.uk
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BRISTOL AT WORK Our series of photographic portraits by Charlotte Stone shows Bristol people at work
Big Juice can cater for all your health drink needs this January
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arri and John of Big Juice Ltd have been serving the people of Bristol tasty, top quality fruit and vegetable juices, as well as truly delicious smoothies, for nearly fifteen years. “We first opened our juice bar in St Nicholas Markets in the summer of 2001. Motivated by our deep belief in the benefits of a healthy diet and understanding the importance of raw juicing for the body, we wanted to provide Bristol with a truly healthcentric juice bar that serves totally pure, unadulterated fresh fruit and vegetable juices and smoothies. We believe Big Juice is still truly unique in Bristol. All our recipes have been created to provide the best nutritional quality drinks. We take no short cuts, and always use 100% real fruit and veg. All our juices are made fresh to order. Our mornings start very early, as every day at 6am we visit the fruit and veg market so we can personally select the freshest ingredients for the juicing day ahead. A combination of continuous research on nutrition and forever being inspired by the medicinal properties of raw fruit and vegetables, our recipes have been created to provide nutritionally rich drinks. We make everything from veg blends to nut mylks, and can even provide full juice diet plans that are guaranteed to leave you feeling great. To help incorporate some of the not so great tasting vegetables into our range – and people’s daily intake – we also devised a Therapy Shots menu. The idea is to offer our customers a quick shot of pure raw juice that they can down in one and gain maximum benefit. There are loads to choose from, so whatever your ailment we’ll be able to help. There’s our pure ginger shot (for if you’ve got the cold and flu snuffles), turmeric juice (that helps reduce inflammation), a beetroot shot (that improves stamina and lowers blood pressure) and the famous fresh wheatgrass shot (that tastes horrible but is rich in chlorophyll, which really helps the body detoxify after a heavy festive season). We like to give Bristol an option of chosing natural remedies that will help them keep them fighting fit over winter – and all year round! We love what we do, and our customer feedback on their health changes keeps us inspired. We spend most of our spare time creating new recipes using ingredients that will provide our bodies with the nutrition that is so often missing from today’s modern diets. And we’ll keep on working to keep Bristol healthy and happy.” n Big Juice, 21 The Glass Arcades, St Nicholas Markets, BS1 1LJ. Tel: 0117 924 4841 or visit: www.bigjuiceltd.com www.charlottestonephoto.com
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Rebel Hair Colour only
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MOROCCANOIL ®
Stockists
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Tel: 0117 968 2663 • www.carlohairandbeauty.co.uk 6 Rockleaze Rd, Sneyd Park, Bristol BS9 1NF JANUARY 2015
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BRISTOL | COMEDY
SLAP and TICKLE
As the much-loved Slapstick Festival sharpens its wits for its eleventh running in January, Jane Duffus takes a look at what’s in store...
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BRISTOL | COMEDY
Main image: Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer will receive this year’s Aardman/Slapstick Visual Comedy Award; above left: well-loved local musician and comedian Viv Stanshall; above right: Hats Off to Laurel & Hardy, slapstick’s most famous double act; below: Morph and Chas will make an appearance at Watershed to promote their new series, Chas Express
V
ivian Stanshall saved my life,” says Stephen Fry boldly of the late Bristolian musician and comedian. Vivian, of course, brought The Thekla to Bristol and set up home on board the ship after having played in the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band and worked on the comedy show Do Not Adjust Your Set. “Alone at school, his Mullard-valve-warming voice, his poetic expression, his majesty, madness, tone, dignity and verbal sloshings, sluicings and whooshings made me happier than I can ever say,” continues Stephen of Vivian. And as a man who is clearly enthralled by everything that Vivian leaves as his legacy, it is only fitting that Mr Fry joins Bristol’s Slapstick Festival to host a celebration of his life in the 20th anniversary year of Vivian’s death. Vivian’s widow Pamela ‘Ki’ Longfellow Stanshall, and their daughter Silky, are also attending the event at Bristol Old Vic on Sunday 25 January, which is sure to be a sell-out. “His name should live long in legend and song. I’m delighted to be performing at this special tribute to Viv’s work at Bristol’s Slapstick Festival,” adds Stephen. And there are a lot of other fantastic Slapstick events happening in Bristol between Thursday 22 and Sunday 25 January. Festival Director Chris Daniels says: “January can be a gloomy month but our next festival is so full of laugh out loud treats that we’re expecting the Met Office to report that Bristol will be basking in sunshine and smiles throughout Slapstick weekend.” Chris has been at the helm of the festival since the very beginning, and he explains his love for the genre saying: “The Slapstick Festival has evolved from being a purely silent film based festival to also incorporating classic and visual comedy. So for me there are two main attractions to slapstick: the great late silent comics of the past and then their modern-day, living equivalents.” While younger comedy fans may be less familiar with the slapstick stars, the festival is a great way to find out more about this special genre. As Chris says: “What’s been a delight for me has been discovering all these incredible people who share that passion for silent comedy, from The Goodies to Victoria Wood, and Griff Rhys Jones to Ian Lavender. They bring a different perspective for live audiences and gently ease people into the medium.” One annual highlight of the festival is always the opening gala at Colston Hall, which this year is hosted by stand-up comedian and The Thick Of It star Chris Addison on Friday 23 January. The gala features beautifully restored slapstick film classics starring Charlie Chaplin (in The Immigrant, 1917), Buster Keaton (in Seven Chances, 1925) and Laurel & Hardy. As well as the live premieres of new accompaniments by Guenter A. Buchwald and rock legend Rick Wakeman, who will be playing a self-composed piano accompaniment to a Laurel & Hardy classic from 1929, Big Business. Since the theme of this year’s festival is Seeing Double, audiences can look forward to celebrations of lots of excellent comedy pairings. Receiving this year’s Aardman/Slapstick Visual Comedy Award will be the inimitable Vic
Reeves and Bob Mortimer at an event at Bristol Old Vic on 25 January. For more than two decades, Vic and Bob have proved themselves to be the undisputed champions of visual comedy, and this special event promises clips, chat and much more. Lots of familiar faces will be returning to Bristol for their annual pilgrimage to host events at the Slapstick Festival, including Victoria Wood, Lucy Porter, Ian Lavender, Bill Oddie and Graeme Garden, many of whom have been involved with the festival since day one. One such returning host is comedian Shappi Khorsandi, who shares the comedy moments that have influenced her development into one of today’s sharpest and most popular entertainers at Bristol Old Vic on 25 January. Shappi says: “It’s an honour to be part of Bristol Slapstick. It’s a celebration of a style of comedy which does not rely on clever words and so becomes universal, international, and often much more human.” Writer and performer Victoria Wood is introducing a double bill of Gloria Swanson films (Teddy At The Throttle, 1917, and Stage Struck, 1925) on 24 January at Bristol Old Vic; and comedian Lucy Porter picks up the baton for championing Gloria Swanson with a double bill of the same films at London’s Barbican on 25 January. But Bristol fans don’t need to feel left out, because Lucy will be here in person on 22 January when she introduces the 1924 film The Marriage Circle at Watershed. This film stars two of the silent era’s most talented actors, Marie Prevost and Florence Vidor, in the story of their misadventures in married life. But not everyone needs to be human! One highlight of the Seeing Double strand will be the Morph and Chas event, hosted by Aardman co-founder and Morph’s creator Peter Lord with stand-up comedian Richard Herring. This will be a pre-festival curtain raiser at Watershed on Saturday 17 January. Following a hugely successful Kickstarter campaign, clay character Morph is back with a new series of mini-adventures. And his creator Peter shares a selection of classic and new clips including an exclusive preview of the final episode in the current Morph series, Chas Express co-starring Morph and his mischievous chum. There will also be a family-friendly Morph modelling workshop on 24 January at Watershed, where one of Aardman’s export model makers will help you make your very own Morph. n
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IT’S A CELEBRATION OF A STYLE OF COMEDY THAT IS UNIVERSAL, INTERNATIONAL, AND VERY HUMAN
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Bristol’s Slapstick Festival runs from Thursday 22 to Sunday 25 January. For the full programme of events, and to book tickets, visit: www.slapstick.org.uk JANUARY 2015
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WHAT’S | ON Tom Service at St George’s Bristol
CULTURE BOOK Our guide to this month’s top events in Bristol and beyond Dick Whittington at Bristol Hippodrome
Echolocation at the Botanic Gardens
UNTIL JANUARY 09
Swallows and Amazons, Bristol Old Vic, Thursday 27 November – Saturday 17 January, various times Step aboard The Swallow and follow Captain John and his able crew as they set sail to Wildcat Island on an exotic journey packed full of piracy and adventure. Adapted from Arthur Ransome’s well-loved novel and featuring songs by Neil Hannon, this highly acclaimed play will be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Tickets: £8 – £25, available from the box office on tel: 0117 987 7877 or visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk.
Dick Whittington, Bristol Hippodrome, Saturday 6 December – Sunday 5 January, 2pm & 7pm The countdown is on to the ultimate tail of wags to riches, Dick Whittington – this year’s award winning spectacular family pantomime at The Bristol Hippodrome. Starring as Alice Fitzwarren and her dog will be Britain’s Got Talent winners Ashleigh and Pudsey, with Ben Faulks as Dick Whittington, Andy Ford as Idle Jack, panto dame extraordinaire Eric Potts as Sarah the Cook and X Factor’s Brenda Edwards as Fairy Bowbells. Tickets: £10 – £39.50 from the box office tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.
Muppets Die Hard, The White Bear, Wednesday 10 December – Friday 9 January, 8pm The Wardrobe Theatre have conspired to create a darkly comic, adult only, alternative Christmas show to serve as an antidote to the season’s usual sickly-sweet entertainment. This is the venue’s biggest and boldest show yet, and an absurd merging of Jim Henson’s puppets and the 1980s blockbuster. Tickets: £5, visit: www.thewardrobetheatre.com.
White City, Bristol Record Office, until Friday 27 February, Monday – Friday, 9.30am – 4.30pm Explore the story of the White City, built for Bristol’s International Exhibition and taken over for soldiers of the First World War. The International Exhibition, created to celebrate the British Empire, occupied 30 acres at Ashton Meadows. It opened in the summer of 1914 but closed as soon as the First World War broke out. Running in conjunction with Moved by Conflict, this display reveals a little known aspect of Bristol’s wartime history. Free. For more information tel: 0117 922 4224 or visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk.
Daily Ashtanga Yoga, Gloucester Road, Tuesday – Friday from 9 January, 6.30am – 10am Ashtanga Bristol is offering students the opportunity to practice daily with Caroline Simpson, Bristol's only authorised Ashtanga teacher, at the Quakers Hall on Gloucester Road. Ashtanga is taught individually within the group setting, so you can arrive anytime within the session and there is no need to book in advance – just allow 45 minutes for your first class. Monthly membership, ten-class passes and drop-in rates are all available.
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Regular practitioners of Ashtanga report increased flexibility, strength and balance, as well as noticably improved sleep quality, and a reduction in general feelings of stress and anxiety. For more details visit: www.ashtangabristol.com or email Caroline at: shala@ashtangabristol.com.
FROM JANUARY 10
Spring Term, Bristol Folk House, Saturday 10 January – Saturday 28 March, class times vary Need to clear your clutter? Finish that novel? Or fancy dabbling in some herbal alchemy? Whatever you may wish to try this year, the Folk House will have a course for you. Ranging from day workshops to weekly classes. For full details tel: 0117 908 5035 or visit: www.folkhousecafe.co.uk.
Plants that Echo in the Night, University of Bristol Botanic Garden, Thursday 15 January, 7.30pm Echolocation is an alien sense to humans. For us, to ‘see with our ears’ is barely imaginable, yet in complete darkness bats and dolphins can use echolocation to gather three dimensional images of their surroundings. One particularly amazing aspect of echolocation is the co-evolution of nectarfeeding bats and bat-pollinated plants. This lecture, led by Dr Marc Holderied, will look at this amazing example of plant-pollinator coevolution. Venue: The Frank Lecture Theatre, School of Physics, Tyndall Avenue, BS8 1TL. Admission is free for Friends of the Botanic Garden, visitors will be asked to make a donation. Tel: 0117 331 4906 or visit: www.bristol.ac.uk/botanic-garden.
Waterloo Abba Tribute Show, The Playhouse, Weston-super-Mare, Friday 16 January, 7.30pm Presented by Sweeney Entertainments and produced and directed by James Baker, this brand new show celebrates the music of one of the best-selling music artists of all time, looking back at the sensational rise to stardom of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid. The unique Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band, complete with stunning costumes and breath-taking choreography. Tickets: £19.50 (plus £2 transaction fee), tel: 01934 6445 544 or visit: www.waterloobestofabba.co.uk.
FROM JANUARY 18
‘71 (seventy one), Curzon Cinema, Sunday 18 January, 7.30pm A young British soldier is accidentally abandoned by his unit following a riot on the streets of Belfast in 1971. Unable to tell friend from foe, and increasingly wary of his own comrades, the raw recruit must survive the night alone and find his way to safety through a disorientating, alien and deadly landscape. Tickets: £6.80 (adults), £5.50 (conc.), available from the box office on tel: 01275 871 000 or visit: www.curzon.org.uk.
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Orca, Alma Tavern Theatre, Monday 19 – Saturday 24 January, 8pm Esme and Willard have just stolen a killer whale. The beast lies dormant in the back of a lorry, deserted by the driver, 300 miles southbound on the M4, in the enclosed space he shares with his two captors/saviours. Esme needs to be seen to have created something monumental, but Willard just wants to look good. Both are out of their depth. Presented by Unlit Productions. Tickets: £8 (£6 conc.), visit www.almataverntheatre.co.uk.
Anthony Braxton, The Lantern, Colston Hall, Tuesday 20 January, 8pm Orca at Alma Tavern Theatre
This is the only concert Anthony Braxton and his Diamond Curtain Wall Quartet will perform in the country, so tickets look to sell out fast for this intimate venue. One of the biggest names in improvisational jazz, Braxton’s work as a saxophonist and composer is widely acknowledged as groundbreaking, combining influences from the European art music scene – such as Stockhausen, Boulez, Xenakis and Schoenberg – with his love of jazz. Tickets: £26.50 (incl. booking fee) available from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.
Fleabag, Brewery Theatre, Tuesday 20 January – Saturday 7 February, 8.15pm (baby friendly performance Tuesday 3 February, 10.30am)
Anthony Braxton at Colston Hall
DryWrite and Soho Theatre present Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s multi award-winning and Olivier nominated one woman show. Welcome to the world of Fleabag, where rules are out the window and she’s getting confused. She’s angry, cruel, forgetful, unforgiving, flippant, capricious, but undeniably honest. And you can’t help but love an honest person. Or can you? For one hour only, Fleabag lets us see the world through her eyes as we follow her quest of rediscovery over a fraught and frenzied 48 hours. It may not be pretty but it’s very funny. Tickets: £12 (£8 conc.), available from the box office on tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: tobaccofactorytheatres.com.
FROM JANUARY 21
Ferment Fortnight, Bristol Old Vic, Wednesday 21 – Friday 30 January, show times vary Showing a wealth of work in various states of progress from the most fertile creative minds in the south west, this popular fortnight of work returns to Bristol Old Vic for January. Full line up yet to be announced. For more information visit: www.bristololdvic.org.uk. Ferment Fortnight at Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Bad Film Club, Southbank Club, Thursday 22 January, 8pm This month, Bristol Bad Film Club present Gymkata (1985), the most 80s film ever, in which gymnast Kurt Thomas combines the ‘skill of gymnastics with the kill of karate’ to ensure that the US has a base for their new satellite nuclear-weapon tracking system. Tickets: £5 (advance)/£6 (on the night), all profits go to Amnesty International. Visit: bristolbadfilmclub.co.uk.
The Power and the Glory, Colston Hall, Saturday 24 January, 7.30pm The Power and the Glory at Colston Hall
The Hallé and Sir Mark Elder will perform Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture K. 620, Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in D minor, and Elgar’s Symphony No. 2 in E flat.
EDITOR’S PICK... The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia, Bristol Hippodrome, performing Swan Lake from Tuesday 6 – Wednesday 7 January, 7.30 pm and The Nutcracker, Thursday 8 January, 2.30pm & 7.30pm One of Russia’s leading ballet companies arrives in Bristol to perform two of Tchaikovsky’s most celebrated works. Enjoy the haunting and unforgettable score of Swan Lake, which transports audiences from the impressive splendour of the palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, as the enthralling tale of tragic romance unfolds. Or keep the festive magic alive a little longer and watch the most famous fantasy ballet of all time, The Nutcracker, which begins at nightfall on Christmas Eve. When midnight strikes, get swept away to a fairy-tale world where nothing is quite as it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the Mouse-king and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and we travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins. Tickets: £16.90 – £47.90 (plus transaction fee), available from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.
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With pianist Martin Stadtfeld. There will also be a talk in The Lantern before hand, where Jonathan James will discuss Elgar with Sir Mark Elder. Tickets: £1 – £36 (incl. booking fee), available from the box office on tel: 0844 887 1500 or visit: www.colstonhall.org.
The Gnarwhals at The Louisiana
Electric Harmony Presents..., The Louisiana, Saturday 24 January, 7.30pm Electric Harmony are moving up from the Louisiana basement to take to the main stage in 2015. The first line-up for 2015 is feisty all-girl punk band The Tuts, grunge-fuelled Bad Grammar and skate-rock trio The Gnarwhals. Super early bird tickets: £4, visit: www.musicglue.com.
FROM JANUARY 28
Bristol’s Unseen Natural Treasures, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Wednesday 28 January, 11am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm Enjoy the rarely seen specimens of the gallery’s secret animal and plant collection, hidden in the basement of the museum, and learn how experts study and care for the collection. Each tour lasts about 45 minutes. Not suitable for those with animal phobias or who do not like confined spaces. Age 16+. Tickets £3, for more information tel: 0117 922 3571 or visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk.
What the Frock! Riproar Comedy Club, Friday 30 January, 8pm The ever-popular monthly comedy night is relocating to the city’s brand new purpose-built comedy club Riproar, and its first night there will be hosted by Bristol's beloved Jayde Adams. Mae Martin has been rapidly gaining momentum since she arrived in the UK several years ago from Canada, and took Edinburgh audiences by storm in 2014 with a chaotic mix of stand-up, songs and audience interaction. Anna Morris is a multitalented comedian, writer and actor, who has written for The Paul O'Grady Show and Newsrevue as well as her own solo comedy shows. Tickets: £12 (£10 conc.), visit: www.wegottickets.com. For more information visit: www.whatthefrockcomedy.co.uk.
Anna Morris at What the Frock!
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Wicked at Bristol Hippodrome
Instant Wit, Alma Tavern Theatre, Saturday 31 January, 8pm Welcome to an evening of songs, gags and general silliness – all of it based around audience suggestions. Do you fancy a scene set on Captain Nemo’s submarine where the actors can only use five words each time they talk? Or how about Location, Location, Location as an opera with Kirsty and Phil? But don’t worry, nobody is forced to participate and we even build in a section where anonymous suggestions, written down in the interval, can be acted out. Tickets: £10, visit: www.almataverntheatre.co.uk.
BOOK NOW FOR...
Appetite, Tobacco Factory Theatre, Sunday 1 February, 7.30pm How can an unmarried woman get by in 1770? Her options are few. Business is brisk at Bristol’s Hot Well. Merchants stuff their coffers with profits from the infamous ships returning from the Indies. But Lucinda, a lady of the evening – well-educated, well-dressed and well on the wrong side of forty – is losing her regular merchants and Naval officers to younger competitors… This is a staged reading of a new play starring Greta Scacchi, Tim Bentinck and a fine cast of actors, raising awareness and funds for local charities Unseen and One25. Tickets: £12 (£9 conc.) available from the box office on tel: 0117 902 0344 or visit: tobaccofactorytheatres.com.
Come & Sing: Vaughan Williams, Tyndale Baptist Church, Saturday 7 February, 10am – 4pm Join Bristol Choral Society for a ‘come and sing’ day, where you can learn two wonderful works by Vaughan Williams – Toward the Unknown Region and Mass in G Minor. Under the guidance of conductor Adrian Partington, come and enjoy the wonderful experience of singing these works as part of a big choir. Tickets: £15 (includes hire of music), under 18s £7.50. Advance booking is essential, tel: 0117 962 3223 or visit: www.bristolchoral.co.uk.
Black Label Society, O2 Academy, Saturday 14 February, 7pm Bringing his guitar wizardry and guttural blues to the road; Zakk Wylde along with Dario Lorina (guitar), John DeServio (bass) and Jeff Fabb (drums) will play eight dates in the UK. From his 20 years with Ozzy Osbourne and his inception of Black Label Society in 1998 Wylde has widely been considered as one of modern rocks’ true guitar heroes with his taste for metal, blues, doom and southern rock. Tickets: £20, visit: www.o2academybristol.co.uk.
Wicked, Bristol Hippodrome, Wednesday 18 February – Saturday 21 March, evening and matinee performances Winner of 100 international awards, Wicked is a witty re-imagining of the stories and characters created by L. Frank Baum in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. It tells the incredible untold story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. Tickets: £20 – £72.50 (plus transaction fee), available from the box office on tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.
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GARDENING WHAT’S ON | THEATRE
MASTER OF PUPPETS The National Theatre’s epic production of War Horse comes to Bristol Hippodrome
O
n 14 January, the National Theatre’s multi award-winning production of War Horse arrives at Bristol Hippodrome. Adapted from Micheal Morpurgo’s moving children’s book, the play tells the story of a young boy called Albert and his beloved horse Joey, who has been requisitioned to fight for the British in World War I. Caught in enemy crossfire, Joey ends up serving on both sides during the war before landing in No Man’s Land, while Albert, not old enough to enlist, embarks on a treacherous mission to find his horse and bring him home. The real-life inspiration behind Michael’s novel is as evocative as the tale itself, bridging two generations and combining two lives that on the surface couldn’t have been more different. “I was born in 1943 and so grew up very conscious of war,” he begins, “but it wasn’t until 1976, when I moved to Devon with my wife to start Farms for City Children, that this story came together. “One day, I walked into our local pub and there was an old gentleman sitting by the fire. We made conversation, as you do, and he started telling me about his time working with horses during the First World War. He said that his best friend on the front line had been his horse, because he could tell it things he couldn’t speak about to the men around him. When he told me ‘the horse listened’, I believed him. “My faith was confirmed a few days later on the farm, when I walked into the yard and saw a little boy standing near our horse. It was Billy, who had a bad stutter and so never talked at school. But here he was, outside in the rain in just his slippers, stroking the horse and telling it all the things he’d done that day. “I just stayed there in the shadows and listened to him. I was extremely
moved, and it made me think again about what the old man had told me, and reflect on the trust and friendship that can grow between one sentient being and another. The two stories came together to form one shared experience that wasn’t sentimental, but very real. “There are so many stories about the war, told from various sides, but I wanted this to be neutral. And because I’d seen Billy talking to the horse in just the same way the old soldier would have spoken to his all those years ago, I realised that a horse could tell the story of personal experience from both sides.” And so the idea was born. But how did the National Theatre then transform Michael’s written word into this production? Tom Morris, co-director of the production and artistic director at Bristol Old Vic, explained how the vision to tell this tale using both actors and puppets came about. “I had always wanted to work with Handspring Puppets, and find a way to harness the magnetic quality of their animal creations in a large scale show,” he explains. “Nick Hynter, director of the National Theatre, was looking for ideas that would appeal to both children and adults, and that is when the idea of marrying the puppetry with Michael’s book came about.” The result of this fusion is truly groundbreaking, the puppets offering a means by which to explore and express themes and emotions that are so difficult to convey through words. In capturing the power of what is left unsaid, and the subtle beauty of quiet understanding, the play has resonated with audiences worldwide. n War Horse has been adapted by Nick Stafford and is presented in association with Cape Town’s Handspring Puppet Company. Co-directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris. Rinning Wednesday 14 January – Saturday 14 February, to book tel: 0844 871 3012 or visit: www.atgtickets.com.
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WHEN HE TOLD ME ‘THE HORSE LISTENED’, I BELIEVED HIM – MICHAEL MORPURGO
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STEP UP No need for dull diets and treadmills this January, says Hannah Stuart-Leach. For a fun and friendly way to get active, put your best foot forward at one of Bristol’s many dance classes
SAMBA Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, www.dmacuk.org
B
ased in Stokes Croft’s Hamilton House, DMAC – Dance Music Arts Collective – is a not for profit dance company whose primary focus is supporting artists. “We're trying to foster a family of experienced practitioners and provide them with a home to run their classes”, explains one of the volunteer directors, a Capoeira Angola teacher, Bob Blunden, “as well as provide opportunities for performance work, education projects and professional practice. “We wholeheartedly believe that the physical arts, for want of a better term, are transformative, healing and grounding in today's fast paced culture.” In January, DMAC’s diverse range of classes includes African dance, 5 Rhythms, belly dance, tango, salsa, hoop dance and samba. There are also various martial arts and fitness classes including capoeira, ballates (ballet pilates) and LGBT fitness. If you don’t know where to start with so much choice, Bob recommends samba on Saturday mornings, 11am – 12:30pm. “Latisha Cesar is a great and welcoming teacher, offering beginner level or advanced techniques. Her class draws on many Afro-Brazilian influences and she makes the dance look simple while drawing on a rich heritage, with live drumming in the class.” Whether you're looking for a fitness workout, something with cultural depth or just a blast of good vibes, says Bob, “dance gives and gives.” All classes accept beginners. “January’s always a good time for people to start something new and flush out the winter blues and we encourage anyone to enrich their lives with some regular dance training.”
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SHOWGIRLS 20 Portland Square, www.theshowgirlacademy.co.uk “Our vision is to give people a happier, healthier and more confident life through professional dance classes that are accessible to all,” says owner and manager of The Showgirl Academy, Claire Phipps. It was a passion for music and dance from bygone eras that first got her hooked on the vintage styles the academy specialises in. “I got into burlesque and cabaret by accident about five years ago,” she explains, “and fell in love with the feathers, sparkle and charm. The dances are full of character and fun, and just something a bit different.” The academy spans all ability levels offering courses and workshops, private tuition and hen parties in dance styles including burlesque, Charleston, jive, can-can and go-go. They also have a professional troupe, called The Flaming Feathers, available to perform at events and parties.
SLING DANCE
SWING DANCE Various locations, www.swingdancebristol.com
Redland Club, Burlington Road, www.dancecelebration.co.uk If you’re a new mum, Natasha Fewings has just the class for you – with the added bonus of offering your baby their first dance experience. “Sling dance is a unique dance class that engages both parent and baby,” she explains. “It is inclusive, everyone is welcome – dads and mums and grandparents too.” It’s suitable for everyone, at any level. “I believe in the feel good factor of dance,” says Natasha. “It makes everyone feel better, empowered and stronger.” The classes, where you move with baby and sling attached, incorporate several styles such as samba, Charleston and Greek circle dance, as well as a globally minded playlist. Having trained at a professional dance conservatoire and toured as a professional dancer, Natasha recently added to her expertise by graduating with an MA in dance therapy. Her motivation was to reach even more people through the power of dance. “I love teaching young children as they are so creative and brave. Starting as a baby increases confidence and brain development, and also helps them start to socialise.”
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For a super social experience, give swing dance a whirl. “We always rotate partners so you get to meet everyone,” explains instructor David Zilkha, who first got into the dance when he went to see a band at Christmas about 15 years ago. As much as he enjoyed the music, it was the dancers he was transfixed by. “I'd never seen a partner dance like it, I loved the mixture of obviously learnt technical moves, with playing and improvising and just making it up in response to the music. So I made a New Year’s resolution that I would be able to do what they did by the end of the following year. And it's the only one I've ever kept.” With origins in jazz, the “jazz attitude” is strongly present in the dance and music of swing, says David. “It has so much life, you just want to start moving to it. The dance community reflects that attitude – it's one of the friendliest communities I've ever come across.” Beginners are always very welcome at Swing Dance Bristol. “Within about 15 minutes of the start of one of our beginner courses we get people leading and following, deciding on their own moves themselves rather than just doing the moves the teacher says. By the end of the first hour, everyone is able to dance through a whole song, maybe not perfectly but they can do it.” There are classes every week in Easton, Clifton and Southville, as well as monthly dance, Ain't Misbehavin, on the third Friday of every month.
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AERIAL YOGA Pink Kitten, www.pinkkittendanceschool.com Pink Kitten Dance School in Easton specialises in alternative fitness, with a schedule including pole dance, burlesque and aerial hoop. Their aerial yoga class is a great way to start, says Pink Kitten instructor Hannah Nicholls, and offers toning, strengthening and body conditioning “in a fun, anti-gravity way. “Our beginner level class combines the skill of the circus with the serenity of yoga. You can expect to stretch out, hang out and fly about! Also it can help build strength and confidence for moving onto our aerial hoop or pole dance classes. “Our classes are more than just dance or fitness classes though, they bring empowerment and boost confidence, sometimes life changingly so.” Hannah got her first glimpse of aerial dance after plucking up the courage to try a pole class: “With a background in dance I quickly became addicted to this really fun alternative to traditional classes. It opened up a world of aerial dance and fitness and I soon started training in aerial silks and hoops in addition to pole dancing. It brings an enormous sense of well being and purpose to my life.” Classes run weekly, and the school will also be hosting a weekend of free taster sessions on 3 and 4 January. No registration required. You can also catch their winter show at the studio, in the Old Malt House, on Saturday 17 January. First page: main image, samba class at DMAC, Hamilton House; below, children’s class at DMAC. Second page: main image, the Showgirls performing; top right: outfit change but just as much fun at Showgirls. This page: Pink Kitten dancers take on the pole against the beautiful backdrop of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
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“Dusk over the River Vitava, Prague” by Peter Wileman
Living for the City: Jan 17 - March 4 Lime Tree Gallery, 84 Hotwell Road, Bristol BS8 4UB
Tel 0117 929 2527
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www.limetreegallery.com
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JANUARY SHOWS The Royal Photographic Society International Biennial Members’ Print Exhibition, The Grant Bradley Gallery, Saturday 10 – Saturday 31 January Founded in 1853 to promote the art and science of photography, The Royal Photographic Society is an educational charity with a worldwide membership of over 11,000, open to anyone with an interest in photography. It has been staging open photographic exhibitions continuously since its formation and remains a leading voice in the world of photography today. The Society’s rich and diverse heritage is best exemplified in the exclusive Members’ Print Exhibition, which takes place every two years. For the 2015 show, nearly 3,300 images were submitted by members worldwide via the online competition site, and the judges had the difficult task of selecting just 100 for the final exhibition. The selected photographers represent 16 countries including Brazil, China, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the USA and Europe. The Grant Bradley Gallery, 1 St Peters Court, Bedminster, BS3 4AQ. Open Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm. Tel: 0117 963 7673 or visit: www.grantbradleygallery.co.uk
Lost by Leigh Eros
Mixed Show, Innocent Fine Art, Saturday 3 – Saturday 31 January
A section from Clevedon Pier by Anthony Garratt
This new year exhibition features a number of artists working with a variety of media and subject matters. There are evocative winter trees by Sally Stafford, colourful paintings of Delhi and Medina by Andrew Hood, new Bristol oils by local artist Tom Hughes and soft west country pastels by Sarah Brown. Also on show are dynamic paintings by Anthony Garratt, colourful abstract works by Elaine Jones, vital sculpture by John Huggins and contemporary ceramics by Bristol born artist Christine Feiler. Innocent Fine Art, Clifton, BS8 4AA. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5.30pm, and Sunday 11.30am – 4pm. Tel: 0117 973 2614 or visit: www.innocentfineart.co.uk
A section from Brooding Light by Steve Slimm
Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Saturday 29 November – Sunday 22 February Now in its 150th year, this internationally renowned photography exhibition allows you to encounter the rich array of wildlife on our planet by showcasing extraordinary images that celebrate the drama, beauty and splendour of the natural world. Tel: 0117 922 3571 or visit: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk
▲ Cornish Takeover, Clifton Fine Art, Saturday 17 January – Thursday 5 February
Kaleidoscope by Bernardo Cesare
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A group exhibition featuring Cornish artists, such as Steve Slimm who has been painting the moorlands and seascapes of Cornwall since 1970, renowned abstract artist Terry Frost RA, and Essex Tyler who is both a ceramicist and painter. Clifton Fine Art, 8 Perry Road, BS1 5BQ. Tel: 0117 925 6952 or visit: www.cliftonfineart.com
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Ring by Ebba Goring
Arboretum – The Art of Trees, The Royal West of England Academy, Friday 19 December – Sunday 8 March Celebrating Bristol’s year as European Green Capital, the RWA launches its winter programme on a fittingly green theme. This verdant show explores the tree as a rich subject in art, featuring founding members of the Arborealists group alongside RWA Academicians. Drawing on the romantic tradition in art while also exploring ecological issues, it shows how art and environment intertwine. RWA, Queen’s Road, Clifton, BS8 1PX. Tel: 0117 973 5129 or visit: www. www.rwa.org.uk
All in the Detail, Diana Porter, Friday 9 January – Friday 27 March This wedding show includes handmade textiles, twisted wire and beads of gold that transform metals into textures. Brides-to-be should look no further than this intricate, delicate and romantic showcase of luxury jewellery. Featuring the work of Ebba Goring, Hannah Bedford, Lucie Gedhill and Diana Porter. Diana Porter Contemporary Jewellery, 33 Park Street, S1 5NH. Tel: 0117 909 0225 or visit: www.dianaporter.co.uk
Oak Form by Michelle Dovey
Living for the City, Lime Tree Gallery, Saturday 17 January – Saturday 28 February The Lime Tree Gallery artists have been busily visiting cities of the world. The first exhibition of the new year depicts scenes from London, New York, Paris, Florence, Prague, Tokyo, Melbourne, Edinburgh and Glasgow by Judith Bridgland, Sylvia Paul, David Porteous-Butler, David Smith, Peter Wileman and Zanna Wilson. For more information tel: 0117 929 2527 or visit: wwt.limetreegallery.com
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| The Architectural Model, Architecture Centre, Wednesday 21 January – Sunday 15 March In keeping with the city’s Green Capital status, this exhibition explores how the architecture or shape of a sustainable city is about much more than the buildings we build. It tells the story of how a model can realise the ideas of an architect or master planner in the built environment, and is curated to coincide with Amalgam’s celebrations of their 30th year in the model making trade. Tel: 0117 922 1540 or visit: www.architecturecentre.co.uk
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| Brunel’s Swivel Bridge, Central Library Foyer, Monday 5 January – Sunday 15 February Head down to Central Library to find out about Brunel’s other bridge, which lives in the shadow of the famed Suspension Bridge. It is plagued by problems, but there is an ambitous project underway to return this iconic structure to working order under hydraulic power. For more details visit: www.brunelsotherbridge.org.uk
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King of the Birds by Beth Carter
The Shining Guest, View Gallery, Thursday 30 November – Sunday 18 January Bristol-based Beth Carter’s first solo show at View Gallery presents an extraordinary new collection of work. It includes some familiar creatures in Minotaur and Moth and Dog Mask Figure, and introduces new animal and human combinations in Standing Elephant and Grinder’s Monkey. Complementing the bronze sculptures are high-impact drawings where again fantasy meets reality. View Art Gallery, 159–161 Hotwell Road, BS8 4RY. Tel: 05603 116 735 or visit:. www.viewartgallery.co.uk
Busy Busy by Sylvia Paul
You Move Me, Antlers Gallery, Create Centre, Saturday 29 November – Saturday 10 January An ambitious exhibition of new work that revolves around a large-scale site-specific installation by Bristol-based artist Jo Lathwood, transforming the Create Centre into a wooden tunnel-like space for visitors to journey through and explore. In dialogue with this main framework are pieces by Helen Jones, Laurie Lax, Olivia Jones and Synnøve Fredericks. Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Spike Island, BS1 6XN. For more information visit: www.antlersgallery.com Interference by Jo Lathwood
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LUKE JERRAM EXCLUSIVE.qxp_Layout 2 19/12/2014 13:59 Page 1
ECO | ART
ALL AT SEA This April, as part of Bristol 2015, Luke Jerram will suspend reality with an awesome new installation. Jenny Hayes caught up with him to find out all about it
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ast summer, Luke Jerram made thousands of Bristolians’ dreams come true when he transformed Park Street into a giant waterslide. Part of mayor George Ferguson’s Make Sunday Special initiative, it was an inspiring installation that captured the imagination of the country, hitting the front pages of the newspapers and broadcasting Bristol’s off-beat, slightly anarchic spirit to the nation. And this April he’s bringing his new project – Withdrawn – to the city, and with it a flotilla of fishing boats. This time, the artwork will not be situated in the heart of town but deep in Leigh Woods, overlooking the vital main artery of the River Avon and the natural wonder that is the Avon Gorge. This proximity to the river from which the city’s long and notorious maritime history stems is fitting, as it resonates with many issues explored by the piece itself. “I wanted to raise awareness around the decline of the fishing industry in the south west,” explains Luke. “There was a time when a man could make money from one small fishing boat, but for the past 50 years the seas around us have been so overfished that this is no longer financially viable. So over the last 20 years, most of these smaller boats have been sent to Denmark for demolition.” Resurrecting five of these boats and displaying them in the city makes a profound and clear statement about these job losses and decreasing fish stocks, in a year when Bristol holds Europe’s attention. But it is not just this point that Luke wants to make with his surreal, unsettling and powerful project. “It is also a response to the extreme weather and apocalyptic imagery we’ve
seen in the media recently – Hurricane Katrina, the tsunami in Japan, and even closer to home during the floods on the Somerset Levels last winter, where cars were floating down streets and houses submerged in water,” says Luke. “The positioning of these boats in Leigh Woods presents a similarly uncanny scenario that reminds us of possible future if we don’t address climate change now.” The sight of five boats sailing through the forest is arresting, and likely in itself to evoke a strong reaction in anyone who comes across them. But getting people to stop and think is just the first step in the process by which Luke hopes people will engage with his work and the issues it represents. As one of six key cultural events commissioned in 2015 as part of Trust New Art Bristol, a National Trust initiative, he has been working closely with the organisation to ensure Withdrawn leaves a lasting legacy. “There are a variety of events taking place on and around the boats during the six months they’ll be in Leigh Woods,” he says, “including talks about the fishing industry and climate change, storytelling and boat-building workshops for children, and evening and night time performances and walks that will transform the experience for visitors. “As well as understanding the sincerity of the underlying messages in Withdrawn,” he adds, “the boats themselves and the atmosphere around them will change at different times of day and with the seasons, showing how engineering, science and natural phenomena can interact to create something
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“IT IS A RESPONSE TO THE EXTREME WEATHER AND APOCALYPTIC IMAGERY WE HAVE SEEN IN THE MEDIA RECENTLY”
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truly beautiful.” Despite the project’s relevancy, there has been some concern expressed over the environmental impact of transporting five fishing boats – each measuring 14–30 feet in length and weighing up to 5.5 tonnes – into such a sensitive conservation area, and the impact thousands of visitors will have on the flora and fauna. Ruth Gooding, contemporary arts programme manager of Trust New Art, explains how The National Trust and Forestry Commission have ensured there will be no detrimental disruption: “There has been an extensive planning process around the logistics of getting the boats on site to safeguard this habitat,” she says. “We are also in the process of finalising cycle routes to and from Leigh Woods, so that visitors can bike out instead of using their cars – which should prove popular in our city of keen cyclists. “In the long term, we hope that it will reinvigorate Leigh Woods and make it a more accessible destination for people to come and enjoy, long after the boats have sailed away.” It is an aim that fits well with the project as a whole, as Withdrawn is ultimately all about inspiring positive interaction between man and nature. As well as raising awareness of many environmental issues that are facing us today, it offers a potent platform for debate and education around them, and a focal point from which to start a process of change. n For more information about Luke and his work, visit: www.lukejerram.com, and to find out about Trust New Art Bristol visit: trustnewartbristol.org. Further details about Bristol 2015 can be found at: www.bristol2015.co.uk Main picture and top right: impression of how the boats will look sailing through Leigh Woods, right: details of the old boats themselves, showing wear from their use and the equipment left on board when they were abandoned. WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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WRITTEN IN THE STARS.qxp_Layout 1 19/12/2014 14:00 Page 1
SCIENCE | ASTRONOMY
WRITTEN IN THE STARS Jenny Hayes visits At-Bristol Science Centre to find out about Jupiter, king of the planets
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Main image: Jupiter as seen by the space probe Cassini © NASA Above: l-r Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto © NASA
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his month we are turning our attention away from the stars and looking a little closer to home at the planets in our solar system. These celestial bodies were first documented by ancient Greek astronomers; the term ‘planet’ deriving from the Greek word for ‘wanderer’ and reflecting the way in which they seem to roam among the stars in the night sky, moving more rapidly due to their relative proximity to Earth. In this article we will be looking at Jupiter, the mightiest planet in the solar system fittingly named after the Roman king of the gods and ruler of the sky. It is the brightest point of light in the sky this month, so on a clear night you should have no trouble spotting it gleaming in the west among the stars of Gemini. Jupiter is 1300x the volume of Earth, and has nearly enough mass to undergo nuclear fusion at its core. This process would have transformed it into a star, resulting in a binary star solar system that would have created a world very different to that which we know today. Fortunately for the fate of mankind, this wasn’t the case, but nonetheless Jupiter is fascinating in its own right. It is referred to as a gas giant, although this term may not be strictly correct as there is suggestion that a solid diamond, roughly the size of Earth, lies at its core. This is an exciting hypothesis whose validity will be revealed in June 2016 when gravitational and magnetic field data mapped by NASA’s Juno spacecraft will reveal the planet’s interior composition. But even if such a treasure does exist, no man will get his hands on it in our lifetime as Jupiter is totally impenetrable due to its extreme radioactivity. Radiation is caused by the Sun, whose intense heat strips the electrons out of atoms and renders them charged particles (a process called ionizing radiation). Jupiter has an incredibly strong magnetic field, as a result of electrical currents present in its liquid metallic hydrogen outer core, which attracts these particles as they are carried through the solar system via the solar wind resulting in its deadly levels of radiation. This turbulent planet is also home to the Great Red Spot (GRS), a massive storm 3x the size of Earth that has been raging since at least 1831 – when it was first recorded by the German amateur astronomer Samuel Heinrich Schwabe – and likely far longer. No one is too sure what triggered it, how it grew so big, and why it continues to rage, but one theory is that heat energy generated by gas as it rises creates a cyclonic weather system, like that on Earth. Unlike Earth, however, Jupiter has no solid surface over which this system would break and cause the storm to dissipate, so instead it continues, reaching incredible wind speeds of over 400mph at its periphery. And no discussion of Jupiter would be complete without mention of its 67 moons, of which the most famous four were discovered by Galileo when he peered at the planet through his telescope in 1610, and which you should be able to see through binoculars on a clear night. Like all moons, these four bright objects are solid, as they don’t have the requisite mass to generate the gravity required to exist in a gaseous state. Conversely, given that Jupiter is a Roman god, the names of these moons all derive from his Greek counterpart Zeus’ love interests: Io was an unfortunate victim of Zeus’ amorous tendencies, who he subsequently transformed into a cow to hide the affair from his wife. The moon itself is composed of an iron core and a brown silicate outer layer that gives the appearance of orange, yellow, red and white blotches on its surface. It is also home to over 400 volcanoes, making it the most volcanically active object in the solar system. Europa, another beautiful maiden, caught Zeus’ eye while she was gathering flowers. She enjoyed a more pleasing fate than that of Io, however, as her lover made her Queen of Crete. Made of ice, this moon is an ethereal blue slashed through with brown tiger stripes where the ice has cracked as a result of tidal WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Planets & stars – what’s the difference? A planet does not have sufficient mass to undergo the nuclear fusion required at its core to turn it into a star. Instead, the high mass star imposes gravitational force on the lower mass planet, drawing it in towards it. At the same time, the mass of the planet itself causes is to be pulled outward into space, resulting in an equal balance of forces that keep it in steady orbit around the star. Additionally, stars produce their own light but planets don’t. This is because the temperature at a planet’s core is far lower than that of a star (which is in a state of thermonuclear fusion) so it doesn’t generate sufficient energy to emit light. Instead, it reflects that of the star it orbits. flexing caused by heat bubbling through from the interior of the planet. This phenomenon implies that beneath Europa’s icy surface there is a liquid ocean – that could be home to life. Ganymede, a dashing Trojan prince, was carried by Zeus to Olympus where he served the god as both cupbearer and lover. This moon is the largest satellite in the solar system, and is bigger than both Mercury and Pluto. It has a core of iron, surrounded by the rock and ice that give it an impenetrable, steely grey appearance. Callisto was a companion of Artemis who was seduced by Zeus and subsequently gave birth to his son. To protect the girl and their offspring from his wife, Hera, Zeus transformed them into bears and positioned them in the sky, where they are still visible today as the constellations Ursa Major and Ursa Minor. The moon itself has the oldest and most heavily cratered landscape in our solar system, which has caused scientists to think that no geological activity has taken place there for over 4 billion years. Despite its historical inertia, however, the future looks bright for Callisto whose relatively low levels of radiation have led scientists to believe it could one day be used as a base from which we can explore the Jovian system. It could very well be the site of man’s next moon landing… n With thanks to Lee Pullen at the Planetarium for sharing his knowledge and making this series possible. If you would like to discover more about astronomy, visit the At-Bristol website for details of all shows and upcoming events: www.at-bristol.org.uk or tel: 0117 909 2000
Why do stars twinkle? The light of the stars we see travels unimpeded through the vacuum of space for light years, until it comes into contact with the Earth’s atmosphere and encounters a change in density that causes it to diffract, which our eyes interpret as twinkling (or, scientifically speaking, scintillating). You’ll notice that stars on the horizon twinkle more than those directly overhead, because their light is passing through more atmosphere to reach your eyes. Similarly, they will appear to twinkle more on a blustery night due to the increase in atmospheric disturbance.
But planets don’t... Stars are so far away from our solar system they appear to us as tiny pinpricks in the sky, which means the diffraction of their light that occurs in our atmosphere is apparent. Conversely, the planets are much closer so they appear as small discs in the sky, meaning that these tiny disturbances are absorbed by backdrop of the disc as a whole as it reflects light emitted by the Sun.
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BRISTOL | HISTORY
HIDDEN WATERWAYS Local historian Julian Lea-Jones takes us on a tour of the forgotten medieval tunnels that lie beneath the city’s streets
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wonder how many of us when walking or driving around Bristol give a thought to what lies beneath our feet? I expect most of us, if asked, would only mention water mains, sewers and telecommunications, but how many know about the medieval tunnel systems that snake their way beneath our streets? I would guess very few. Nowadays in this country, we are fortunate enough to be able to take pure water supply for granted, and although the filtered and purified water is controlled and distributed by corporate bodies it was not always so. To learn more we need to travel back a thousand years when Bristol was a small settlement just to the north east of the present Bristol Bridge, at the junction of the Frome and Avon. In those days communities were small enough to get all the water they needed from streams and springs bubbling out of the hillsides. Gradually, these communities grew into a small town. The town’s increasing size and importance attracted different monastic orders such as the Dominicans, Carmelites, Franciscans, Augustinians and others. Feudal landowners with one eye on the hereafter and the other on papal indulgences were happy to grant land for monasteries to be built on the hills around the small medieval town. However the monks had a problem: existing water supplies sufficient for the town’s needs were not enough to supply the monasteries who required much larger amounts of water. Their problem was resolved by persuading their benefactors to also grant water rights from springs rising on the hillsides beyond the town. The monks were fortunate that medieval Bristol sat in a valley and, by a geological quirk of fate, at the 120 foot contour line there was an aquifer (a layer of water bearing rock). It was to the surrounding hills and aquifer that the monks turned their attention. Then, as now, water was a precious resource and the monks had another problem: how to get water from the spring, a mile or more away, down to their monastery? Fortunately gravity and the monks’ skill and knowledge of hydraulic engineering provided the answer. They were able to safeguard their 50 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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water supply by constructing an extensive series of tunnels and culverts to lead it down to their monasteries, either by tunneling through bedrock or by trenches lined and covered in masonry. To this day tunnels crisscrossing the city from Knowle, Kingsdown, Totterdown and Clifton are remnants of eight of Bristol’s best known medieval water systems. The following systems are good examples of the monks’ engineering prowess. A sobering thought: I wonder how many of today’s advanced technology systems will still be usable after seven hundred years? Until the Reformation the monastic houses were totally responsible for the maintenance of their own systems, although in some instances as an example of altruism towards their secular neighbours, they granted the parishioners a small branch pipe, usually no more than a goose feather width in diameter. Others would only allow parishioners to fill buckets at certain times of the day. The Carmelite Friars, now the site of the Colston Hall, granted such a branch to the Parish of St John the Baptist, (their 13th century deed with a section of the ‘feather pipe’ attached can still be seen in the city archives). At the Reformation, parish vestries or the town council took control of their respective water systems, and maintenance was usually funded from the annual trading fairs, such as St Paul’s in Temple or St James’. The Redcliffe pipe (or conduit) came from a spring rising on the slopes of Knowle; the underground route of which is still marked today by stones through Victoria Park by the modern commemorative ‘brick water maze’ and to the outlet in the Redcliffe Hill churchyard wall of St Mary Redcliffe. Although the pipe was damaged by WWII bombing, the subterranean spring is still visited by the vestry of St Mary Redcliffe and Parishioners, and the route walked annually. As part of the ceremony and as an age old reminder to younger participants of the once importance of ‘their’ water supply, they are ‘bumped’ on the stones. However the best known medieval system is the Carmelite’s Pipe, nowadays usually just referred to as the St John’s Conduit. This spring rises on Brandon
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Main image: Dean & Chapter’s Conduit masonry tunnel Gorse Lane This image: Temple Conduit entrance chamber
Hill, flows through tunnels and chambers beneath Park Street, diagonally beneath Hamilton Place, and via Pipe Lane originally ending in 1267 at a huge cistern near their house. Until recent city redevelopment, the water from the Carmelite’s Brandon Hill spring still flowed from the outlet at St John’s Church on the Wall in Nelson Street. There are also conduits, tunnels and storage cisterns beneath the proposed Bath Road Arena site, and at Jacobs Wells Road. After the expulsion of the Jews in 1290, the Jacob’s Well became part of the water supply for the Dean and Chapter of St Augustine’s Abbey. I wonder how many realise that when they drive up Park Street that they are passing over two medieval cisterns holding about 22,000 gallons of crystal clear water that are large enough to drop a bus into? But be reassured, during the blitz of WWII when Bristolians relied on these medieval water systems, a reinforcing wall was built across the cistern. That said, however, when you next walk around Bristol, tread lightly – some of the tunnels are much nearer the surface than you may think! n We would also like to credit Julian Lea-Jones for his academic work on the Knights Templar in Bristol, which was drawn upon in the November article without proper acknowledgement, and for which we offer a full apology.
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Sources and further reading: 1. ‘Medieval Use of Metals – The making and maintaining of a 13c lead water conduit – The Carmelite’s Friary Pipe, Bristol England’, Eur Ing Julian LeaJones C.Eng, FRAeS for The Association Villard de Honnecourt for the Interdisciplinary Study of Medieval Technology, Science, and Art Int Med Congress, Michigan University, 2002. 2. ‘Bristol Regional Geology: Bristol & Gloucester District’, F.B.A. Welch and R. Crookall, DSIR, 1935. Ch. IX, pp 33, 34. 3. ‘An account of St. John’s Conduit ~ Bristol’s Medieval Water System’, Temple Local History Group, August 1988, ISBN 0 951 0068 0 0 Contributing Editor, J. Lea-Jones. 4. Plan No. 24, Ref. 08556, 1823, Bristol Records Office. 5. ‘G.C. Ashmead’s Tithe Commutation map, Sheets 56, 57, Circa 1855’, Bristol Records Office. 6. ‘Appendix to the second report of the commissioners of enquiry… for the health of towns – Bristol and its vicinity’, W. Kay, MD, 22 Jan 1844. 7. E.W.W. Veale, ‘The Great Red Book of Bristol’ (Bristol England, 1933), Vol 1 pp 114–119. Bristol Record Office Reference, BRO, 04719. 8. G.E. Weare, ‘A Collectanea relating to the Bristol Friars Minors (Grey Friars) and their Convent together with A concise history of the dissolution of the houses of the four orders of Mendicant Friars in Bristol’ (Bristol, England, 1893), pp 32,33, Excellence of building; p 74, Inventory of the Carmelite Friars 30th July 1538; p 90, A substance of leadye; p 98, Acquisition of water source(s); p 99, grant of water from overflow of Carmelites cistern to Parishioners of St John the Baptist 1376 and subsequent transfer to Bristol Town Council by indenture on 2 March 1865. 9. J.F. Nicholls and John Taylor, ‘Bristol Past & Present’, 3 Vols (Bristol England, 1881–2). V1, p 214, A map entitled ‘Bristol in 1480’ by A.S. Ellis, dated 1880. Chiefly from the notes made by Wm. Wycestre. VIII p. 235 description of map. Bristol Central Reference Library AA9. 10. Vestry and Church of St John the Baptist, ‘Map of conduit route in 1865 – No. 58 Park Street to St. John's Church’. In 2002 a redundant church (map now kept in the City Valuer's Department). 11. Roberta J. Magnusson, ‘Water Technology in the Middle Ages’, (Baltimore USA & London, England, 2001), ISBN 0 8018 6626 x ; p 57,’Ponds at Sources; p59, filter bed of washed flints, `Gula’; p84, Inverted Siphon.
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FOOD AND DRINK NEWS.qxp_Layout 1 18/12/2014 16:58 Page 1
FOOD | AND DRINK
WINING & DINING news and reviews Foodie events
Lucknam Park
The Somerset Housee
■ Two Bristol pubs have beaten off competition from around the country to come out top in the national awards run by Star Pubs & Bars. The Somerset House on Princess Victoria Street, Clifton, was named Best Food Pub and the Eastfield Inn on Henleaze Road crowned Most Family Friendly Pub. The judges were impressed with how quickly The Somerset House’s licensees, Jack Werner and Rozi Hempstead, established their pub as a great place to eat, while at the Eastfield Inn, they were bowled over by Graham Anderson and Sharon Stanton’s success in making the pub so family friendly for 2014. Chris Jowsey, trading director for Star Pubs & Bars, commented: “The Somerset House and the Eastville Inn are both great pubs and inspiring examples of how the innovation and professionalism of outstanding licensees is keeping the great British pub alive.” The Somerset House, tel: 0117 973 6831 or visit: somersethouseclifton.com; Eastfield Inn, tel: 0117 239 1466 or visit: www.theeastfieldinn.co.uk
Top hotel wins sought-after award
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ucknam Park has been named Best Hotel Restaurant in the south in the 2014 Food Awards for England and Wales, which celebrate and reward the very best in food hospitality. Head chef Robert Potter was thrilled to receive the award, not least because it meant so much as it was voted for by the British public. Claire Randall, managing director of Lucknam Park commented: “We are delighted with this achievement, and I would like to congratulate Hywel Jones and the restaurant team for their excellent work and dedication.” Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Colerne, SN14 8AZ. For enquiries tel: 01225 742 777 or visit: www.lucknampark.co.uk
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A new home for Zazu’s Kitchen
The Eastfield Inn
But they won’t be difficult to find, having only moved 100 yards up the road! Co-founder Toby Bywater explained the reason for the move: “Zazu’s has built up such a loyal, local following since opening up on the Gloucester Road over two years ago that we’ve now outgrown our small site. “When the nearby Delmonico’s restaurant decided to close its doors, we saw it as an
■ Fancy a tasty meal that’ll warm right through to your soul in these dark days of winter? Why not try Nice, a Caribbean restaurant and takeaway in Totterdown that has an extensive menu of hot and spicy dishes that’ll chase away the chills. With jerk chicken cooked on a traditional BBQ, dumplings stuffed with ackee and salt fish, curry goat and stewed chicken on offer daily, alongside fish specials on Fridays, there’s something for everyone. And why not wash it all down with one of the freshly made juices that are on offer? Guaranteed to give you a boost. Nice, 118 Oxford Street, Totterdown. Tel: 0117 977 2134
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opportunity to improve our customer offering. The new site has more space, with a much bigger kitchen that means our talented chefs can strut their stuff to better effect with the menus. “We are very proud to be a local, independent, restaurant on one of the best shopping streets in the UK for independent retailers. We started in this area, so to find a new and better home in a place we know and love is great for us.” The team has spent over £100,000 transforming Delmonico’s into the familiar Zazu’s offering. The building work included improving the frontage, enlarging and sprucing up the front terrace, creating a new bar area for casual drinkers, and revamping the front and back dining areas. Toby says they are keen to keep the casual, informal feel of their previous premises, and confirms that “although it’s a little bigger, the new Zazu’s will still have that cosy, friendly feel.” Zazu’s Kitchen, 217 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NN. To book tel: 0117 944 5500 or visit: www.zazuskitchen.co.uk
A proper Scottish knees-up Celebrate the life and works of Robert Burns, the renowned Scottish poet, at Whatley Manor’s Burns Night event on Tuesday, 20 January. The evening will start with a whisky cocktail at 6:30pm, and then ease you into the world of Gordon & MacPhail with a short film. Afterwards, enjoy the sumptuous Burns supper that has been created by head chef Martin Burge and his talented team. Available for £105, or £250 if you’d like to stay the night. Tel: 01666 834 026 or visit: www.whatleymanor.com n
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AQUILA 30–34 Baldwin Street, BS1 1NR. Tel: 0117 321 0322 or visit: www.aquila-restaurant.com
REVIEW
All photos © Ferla Paolo Photography
The eagle has landed in Bristol Jenny Hayes enjoys contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of the city
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harp and stylish were the two words that sprang instantly to my mind when I walked into Aquila on a wild winter’s night. The interior is ultra-modern – a glossy blend of sharp white lines, stainless steel and contemporary sculpture warmed through by the dark wood of the dining tables and chairs. From the highly polished mirrored honeycomb wall art, to the sheen on the cutlery and sparkle in the glasses, the attention to detail is exemplary. And the hospitality was as impeccable as the décor, the manager making pleasant small talk while deftly removing our sopping coats and umbrellas and enquiring as to whether we’d like to start our evening with a drink in the bar, or go straight through to dine. We opted for the latter and were led through to our table, which offered a wonderful view through to the open kitchen where head chef Emilio Titillo and his team were already busy preparing for the night ahead. Once we were settled, our waitress for the evening came over with menus and introduced herself, explaining that if we had any questions or would like any personal recommendations then she’d be happy to help. I must admit, I usually take these statements with a pinch of salt, as all too often the response is a standard “that one is very popular” to almost any dish questioned, but not so this time. She was very well informed about each of the mains we enquired about, and didn’t shy away from praising her own favourites and guiding us towards choices that suited our taste while also showing of the skill of the chefs. And when it came to choosing a wine to accompany our meal, Aquila’s sommelier was just as informed. He was tasked with the difficult job of recommending something that would suit both my husband’s rich, meaty starter and main, and my lighter fish choices… but he succeeded. Although I usually steer away from chilled white wine in winter, the 2013 Greco di Tufo Docg Devon (£30) was served at the perfect temperature – cool enough to slip down a treat yet not so cold as to freeze your insides. And what flavours!
Bright, tropical fruit shone through and intermingled with the wonderful floral aroma to produce a wine that had the delicate sophistication not to overpower the lighter tone of my meal, underscored with deeper, darker notes that would not get lost against my husband’s heartier meat dishes. Speaking of which, the food was divine. My starter of Calamari Fritti (£7.95) boasted crisp batter that clung round squid, which itself proffered the perfect amount of gentle resistance as I bit down through the firm white flesh. My husband’s Ragu Napolentano (£6.95) – which our waitress had recommended as delivering intensely meaty flavours – didn’t disappoint either, tasting straight out of the sundrenched Mediterranean. My main of Branzino Croccante (£17.95) was beautiful to behold, and smelled fantastic. It was equally delicious to eat, with silky white sea bass topped with a crunchy skin, succulent little clams, satin-smooth fennel puree and delicious gratin dauphinois cubes. Individually, each of these components was tasty, but together they were stellar with every possible combination working in harmony to deliver a different but equally pleasing flavour in my mouth. It was impressively intelligent cooking. And on the other side of the table my husband was enjoying his Pollo Forestiera (£14.95), which proved to be a comforting fusion of smokey pancetta, earthy mushrooms and tender chicken. Having enjoyed the food so much already, it seemed foolish to miss the opportunity of trying some dessert… so we ordered a traditional Sicilian Cannoli (£6.45) and a Chocolate Fondant Emilio (£6.45). The cannoli was surrounded by a citrus sauce that delivered an initial burst of fresh flavor before giving way to smooth, sweet ricotta that oozed out of the roll of crisp biscuit. But it was the fondant that blew me away, its firm crust cracking open to reveal a dark, dense interior that was pure gooey gorgeousness. It was this chocoholic’s idea of heaven. An evening at Aquila guarantees fine food and fantastic service in fabulous surroundings. So what are you waiting for? Book now! n
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MY MAIN WAS BEAUTIFUL TO BEHOLD, AND EQUALLY DELICIOUS TO EAT
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A quality local independent Italian that's family run and well established. WWW.PIAZZADIROMA.CO.UK 178 WHITELADIES ROAD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2XU OPEN 6PM TO 11PM TUESDAY TO SUNDAY (AND BANK HOLIDAY MONDAYS)
T: 0117 973 4183
FROM A ROMANTIC MEAL TO A PARTY BOOKING, YOU WILL BE WELL LOOKED AFTER
THE MENU
SPECIAL OFFERS PICTURES & REVIEWS
ON OUR FACEBOOK &WEBSITE
15% off your food bill (eat in or takeaway) You must have the voucher with you, voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher must be presented before ordering drinks or food, only one voucher per group or table, management reserves the right to modify or cancel this offer at any time, applies to main menu only not specials board, please let us know that you are using the voucher at the time of booking to avoid disappointment.
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REVIEW
GREEN GETAWAY Sarah Stanbury finds the epitome of eco elegance at The Wild Rabbit in Oxfordshire
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aving long been a lover of Daylesford Organic, I had high expectations when my husband and I arrived at The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, Oxfordshire. The latest in Lady Carole Bamford’s empire of organic lifestyle ideals, The Wild Rabbit has been dubbed ‘the poshest pub in Britain’ and just a few months ago won the much coveted ‘Michelin Pub of the Year’ accolade. So what’s all the fuss about? Pulling up in the dimpsy light of a Sunday lunch time in mid-December, my eye is instantly drawn to the white twinkly lights adorning the trees and shrubs in the front courtyard, the two topiary rabbits either side of the front door and the glow of the log fires beckoning from inside. Parking (although limited) at the back means you enter via the patio decked with rustic bleached wooden furniture, appealing, without doubt, in the summer time. Today though the giant wicker lanterns swing in the bitter breeze and the crowd in the dining room, an annexe at the back of the pub, clearly know where they’re best off. Formerly the Tollgate Inn, the rusticluxe renovation is said to have cost a huge £1.4 million. An antique tollgate sign nods to the inn's history, but that's about as far as the nostalgia goes. In fact, the modern stone-and-glass fronted restaurant, ravishing with weathered-oak and stripped back, rustic chic, is perhaps more American mountain lodge than Cotswolds Inn. I like it though; I like it a lot. Ushered through to our table, next to a modern glass, inside-outside fireplace, we made our selections from the enticing menu, which with things like roast Wooton Estate mallard with spiced plum purée and crisp pigs head croquette, smoked eel and sauce ravigôte on offer, may well become a tourist attraction in its own right. Although undeniably meaty, it does also offer a couple of fish dishes and a delightful sounding beetroot orzo, grilled leeks, Roquefort and hazelnuts for vegetarians. For me, the ravioli of crab and scallop with crab bisque to start, followed by roast loin of Gloucester old spot pork with toffee apple purée was the irresistible combination. The pork came also with the pigs head croquette, of which I ate a tentative mouthful. The flavour, in reality, was pungent but really very tasty and the presentation was to perfection. Even the vegetables, curly kale, carrots and roasted parsnips, served in miniature cast-iron saucepans, were given the superstar treatment. My husband meanwhile feasted on lightly truffled wild mushroom soup with poached egg florentine followed by roast rump of beef, which he declared to be ‘soooooo good’. Candlelight begins to glitter as the day draws in and after a brief pause, we move on to desserts of blackberry cheesecake with blackberry sorbet and chocolate mousse with salted caramel ice cream and cocoa nib tuile. With full bellies, we move from the dining room back to the pub and sink into huge squashy leather armchairs next to one of three crackling fires for coffee and a read of the paper. Lady Bamford has been said to want The Wild Rabbit to be a proper local as well as anything else, and right on cue, as the last of the bellini-sipping lunch crowd disperse, muddy boots, spaniels and Labradors accompany those who congregate for a quick beer (albeit in the
most elegant pint glasses I’ve ever seen) whilst discussing the weather. Leaving three small children at home with their grandparents, we ourselves are pretty close to lazy, indulgent Sunday perfection. If this were our local, chances are we’d be tempted to push the boat out and seek a babysitter a whole lot more often. On this occasion though, we’re even treated to an overnight stay. Of the 12 individually designed rooms at The Wild Rabbit, all of which are named after woodland animals, we’re in ‘The Deer’. Spacious and light (given the small windows), the room is achingly tasteful, with its handmade four poster bed, pitched ceilings with bleached beams and sandblasted walls as well as no end of natural fabrics. The room has all the technologies – wifi, docking station, Nespresso machine, Dyson hot and cool fan heater – as well as artisan touches like home-baked biscuits and, my favourite, a flask to take your brew out on a walk with you if you choose. The eco elegance continued into the bathroom, which although small was done out in polished limestone and rough bricks, signed off with a selection of organic, fragrant and highly desirable Bamford bath products. It was an extremely comfortable night in organic cotton and raw linen luxury although we were constantly reminded that this is a 1750s building with zero sound proofing and if it wasn’t the creaking of floor boards it was the din of Sunday night drinkers below that prevented that really deep sleep. At breakfast the next morning, where the sweet smell of wood smoke still filled the air, we shared the dining room with just one other couple, and could appreciate more the attention to every single detail that exists to create The Wild Rabbit ambience. Potted herbs on every table, an antique dresser displaying Scandi-style pottery, taxidermy hares and ceramic rabbits, mismatched wooden chairs and a brick bread oven all saving the overarching Cotswolds-stone palette from death-by-neutrality. At the heart of the restaurant is a big farmhouse table, where cereals, fruit and yoghurt, all organic I’m told, are laid out for breakfast alongside huge vases artfully drooping with hedgerow berries and endless foliage. Our waitress quickly arrives with fresh carrot juice for me and beetroot juice for my husband to restore equilibrium. Then came the freshly ground morning brew and a plate of warm pastries, including the biggest pain au chocolat I’ve ever seen. Although at an extra cost, we order from the cooked menu; field mushrooms on granary toast with fried Daylesford hens egg for me, and a plate of scrambled for my husband. Just down the road from the Daylesford epicentre itself and given that we’d woken to a brilliant blue-sky morning, we decided to enjoy a bit of the Cotswold countryside close-up by taking the resident bikes on a visit to the farm shop for some goodies to take back home. Tempted of course, by more than we’d bargained for, we had to return later with the car. Having ticked just about every one of our ultimate weekend break boxes, The Wild Rabbit is most definitely the place to play out the fantasy of country living in exquisitely good taste. I’m sure its new title as ‘Michelin pub of the year’ won’t hurt either. n For more details visit: www.wildrabbit.co.uk or tel: 01608 658 389
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WITH FULL BELLIES, WE SINK INTO SQUASHY LEATHER ARMCHAIRS NEXT TO ONE OF THREE CRACKLING FIRES
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WHAT’S | NEW
There’s a course for everyone at Bristol Uni
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any people start their journey back into education with a part-time course in the English department at the University of Bristol. There are over 65 students enrolled on the part-time degree in English literature and community engagement, and each year as many as 300 people attend the day and short courses that are also on offer. Students range in age from 19–88, and the community crosses all barriers of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, social class and prior educational achievement. They are attracted by the department’s international reputation for scholarship and teaching, and by the flexibility offered by the part-time courses that take place in the evenings and at weekends, ensuring that they are accessible to a wide range of people. Spring 2015 includes eight week courses on literature and the environment and literature for life, Saturday courses on writing autobiography, memoirs and family history and writing poetry, and Saturday study days on flowers in Dorothy Wordsworth’s journals (for the gardeners amongst you!), the poetry of two World Wars, and 18th century writers Dryden, Pope and Jonson. Whatever your previous experiences or qualifications, Bristol University looks forward to welcoming you to one of the courses or events. To enrol, please visit: www.bristol.ac.uk/english/part-time or email english-lifelong@bristol.ac.uk. ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
BRISTOL UPDATES
Spire Specialist Care Centre
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It only began broadcasting in April, but already local commercial internet radio station GLR is attracting thousands of listeners each week. Situated in the heart of Staple Hill, programmes run 24 hours a day, and include the breakfast show, interviews, a style blog and live broadcasts from events in and around the city. Programme director Roger Noble has over 20 years experience in radio, and says that GLR’s popularity is down to its strong identification with Bristol: “There’s a need for local radio because people want to know what’s going on in Bristol. They don’t want to be brainwashed with showbiz gossip. We also make sure we get great music out there, and that includes featuring a lot of Bristol artists. We are truly local, so if something is going on we want to know about it.” You can listen to GLR live at www.glronair.com, or via Tune In.
■ Award-winning Bristol architects O’LearyGoss are set to transform the cramped 1950s Redland Parish Church Hall into a spacious community centre. They have put forward plans for a light and airy design, that has the capacity for up to 280 people. Architect Edwin Hill said: “Our offices are round the corner from the church so it’s lovely to be involved with this neighbourhood project. The design offers the choice of three main halls and folding partitions which open to one large room, plus a new catering kitchen, lounge and foyer. Now the council has passed the plans and £950,000 of fundraising has been achieved, we hope to start work on this new community facility in 2015.” Vicar Rod Symmons added: “We chose O’LearyGoss because of their track record with similar projects. We are really excited about the design and cannot wait to see the results. For more information about O’LearyGoss tel: 0117 989 2661 or visit: www.olearygoss.co.uk.
On Friday 21 November, Spire Healthcare opened the doors to its new purpose-built, £13 million Specialist Care Centre, giving patients in the region access to some of the most advanced, effective and fast radiotherapy available for the treatment of cancer. It comes as part of a £30 million investment by Spire Healthcare in Bristol over the last five years, and is the group’s first stand-alone specialist care centre in the UK so will act as a blueprint and set the standard for future sites. It is located at Aztec West, close to the motorway network providing easy access from the south west and Wales. Spire Specialist Care Centre, 300 Park Avenue, Aztec West, Almondsbury, BS32 4SY. If you’d like more information tel: 01454 456 500 or visit: www.spirehealthcare.com.
Make it your new year’s resolution to stay in touch
Award-winning Bristol nurse
■ Bristol-based David Robinson and Oli Gosling have made it their mission to inspire people to put down their smartphones and put pen to paper to keep in touch with loved ones with their new greetings card subscription service, CardNest. Every month, three cheerful and bright cards are delivered to subscribers, all suited to a wide variety of occasions. The idea is to build a nest egg of cards at home so that you can dig into your collection when an unexpected birthday occurs, if you have a last minute thank you to send, or if you just want to say hello and let someone know you’re thinking of them. The cards are all exclusively designed by the pair’s favourite artists from across the globe, so can’t be found on the high street, making the collection truly unique. So go on, make it your new year’s resolution to put pen to paper and reconnect with your loved ones. Subscription is £7.50 per month, but readers can enjoy 50% off their first month with the coupon code BRISTOLMAG50 (vaild until 30/01/2015). For more information tel: 0117 325 0369 or visit: www.cardnest.com.
■ A Bristol nurse who has dedicated her life to caring for people with life-limiting illnesses has been awarded a prestigious award by Hospice UK. Jan Little, from Knowle, was given the Anne Norfolk Lifetime Achievement Award after her 35 year dedication to caring for patients at St Peter’s Hospice in Bristol was recognised. Over 200 hospices and cancer charities from across the UK were represented at the awards ceremony, but only one Lifetime Achievement award was presented. Commenting on the honour, Jan said: “My time at St Peter’s Hospice has been a wonderful experience; although there have been ups and downs and some challenging times the length of time I have stayed with the organisation goes to show how much I have enjoyed my work. The team and the patients make everything worthwhile.” For more information visit: www.stpetershospice.org.uk.
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The Bristol Magazine is Bristol’s biggest premium lifestyle magazine.
THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
MEDIA SALES
The Bath Magazine is Bath’s biggest monthly media. Both titles are widely regarded as two of finest city magazines in the UK and we are now looking out for a talented individual who would like to work with our team. The ideal candidate will possess at least 1 years media sales experience, preferably gained from a quality magazine publisher or similar sales environment. Well educated, well spoken, you will be personable, enjoy selling and possess the drive and determination to make a valuable contribution to our continued growth. We love producing superb magazines, and offering our customers a great service. The best part of our success is that it is always well rewarded and becomes an enjoyable career opportunity. Please send your CV and covering letter to Steve Miklos. email: steve@thebristolmagazine.co.uk Tel: 0117 974 2800 www. thebristolmagazine.co.uk
DO NOT MISS THE TAX RETURN DEADLINE Mark Pooley of Chartered Accountants Hollingdale Pooley highlights legitimate ways to reduce your company’s tax liabilities.
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t is that time of year again! If you have to file a selfassessment tax return, you have until 31 January 2015 to file your 2013/14 tax return electronically to HMRC. If you miss this deadline you will be fined an initial late filing penalty of £100. If you continue to fail to submit your tax return, HMRC do have the power to fine you £10 a day for every day that you are late. Do you have to file a self-assessment tax return? If you have received a notice to file a 2013/14 self-assessment tax return from HMRC then you must do so. However, HMRC do not always know if you have to file a self-assessment tax return, and may not have issued you with a notice to file one. If you have any sources of income that are not taxed at source or if you are a higher rate tax payer, then you should be completing and filing a self-assessment tax return. Examples of untaxed sources of income are rents received from buy to let properties and self-employment income. If you have untaxed sources of income, it is your legal duty to inform HMRC that you have these sources of income within three months of receiving them. Failure to do so could result in a £100 fine, although HMRC usually do not levy this fine if the three month period has passed as long as you do subsequently inform them. Care needs to be taken in completing a tax return. If you make an error that results in too little tax being assessed and HMRC discover this, then they will seek to levy a penalty and charge interest on late payment of tax. Their starting point is usually to state that you have been negligent and set the penalty at 30% of the underpaid tax. We can help take the worry out of self-assessment tax. If you are not sure if you need to complete a 2013/14 tax return, or if you would like us to prepare your 2013/14 tax return then please contact either Mark Pooley or Tom Ogden at our office on 0117 9733377 or enquiries@hollingdalepooley.co.uk
Hollingdale Pooley Bramford House, 23 Westfield Park, Clifton, Bristol BS6 6LT
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History is in the name Since Red Maids’ Senior School moved to Burfield House in 1911, renovation work has transformed the historic building. With its curved glass and chrome facade, spotlights and brightly coloured walls, would the previous owner of Burfield House recognise his former family home? During the school’s 380th anniversary year, the students have been learning more about Burfield House’s history from a local historian Veronica Bowerman, who said: “Burfield House has a tremendous history and I was very pleased to come and share this with Red Maids’ students.” For admission enquiries tel: 0117 962 9451 or visit: www.redmaids.bristol.sch.uk.
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Weston College delivers inclusive sports sessions A specialist inclusive sports course devised by North Somerset Council has been delivered to Weston College students with complex physical and learning needs. Sportarray activities have included wheelchair dancing, cycling, carpet bowls and horse-riding in a bid to increase the number of disabled people participating in sport. Weston College vocational assessor, Zoe Benton, said: “It’s been an amazing opportunity for our students and really boosted their confidence to try something new. In fact, since the sessions we’ve seen students decide to carry on in their own time.” Sportarray was launched using National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Inclusive Sport Fund. For details about courses at Weston College, tel: 01934 411 411 or visit: www.weston.ac.uk.
The Board of Governors of Taunton School are pleased to announce that they have appointed Mr Lee Glaser as headmaster of Taunton School from 1st January 2015. This follows the recent announcement that the current headmaster, Dr John Newton, is leaving at the end of December to take up the position of Principal of Scotch College in Adelaide, South Australia. Mrs Jane Barrie, Chair of Governors, describes Mr Glaser as “a senior leader of outstanding ability and judgment.” Lee Glaser, who has served as deputy headmaster of the school for five years, commented that “I am delighted and honoured to be asked to lead Taunton School. In a time of educational change, my colleagues and I are passionate about inspiring and challenging young people to achieve great things.” For more information about Taunton School, tel: 01823 703 703 or visit: www.tauntonschool.co.uk.
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Short Courses
Literature and the Environment
Discuss how literature examines environmental concerns. H.G. Wells, Auden, Dickens and Wordsworth were as alarmed as Christa Wolf and Don Delillo. 6 pm - 8 pm Tuesdays 27 Jan to 17 March 2015 £115
The Monthly Read
Changing times, changing perceptions: Women in Love, D.H. Lawrence; Jacob’s Room, Virginia Woolf; A Passage to India, E.M. Forster 1.30 pm - 4 pm Wednesdays 28 Jan, 25 Feb and 25 March 2015 £100
Reading English Literature
For those who want to return to study and go on to a part-time degree. 6 pm - 9 pm Wednesdays 15 classes 21 Jan to 27 May 2015 £360
Mastering English Literature
For graduates who want to return to study or progress to an MA in English. 6 pm - 8 pm Wednesdays 21 Jan to 3 June 2015 10 classes £565
Literature for Life: Winds of Change
Study Elizabeth Bowen, Phillip Larkin, Ian McEwan and Antonio Tabucchi. 10.30 am - 12.15 pm Tuesdays Starts 27 Jan 2015 in Bath £115
Day Courses £30 Saturday 28 February 2015 Writing Autobiography and Memoir Explore ways of writing about your past.
Writing Poetry
Study published poems and write your own.
Poetry of Two World Wars
Discuss poetic responses to the impact of war.
Dorothy Wordsworth’s Flowers
Was Wordsworth influenced by his sister’s journals to write ‘I wandered lonely as a cloud’?
The Great Augustans
Consider how the ‘Augustans’; Dryden, Pope and Johnson engage with modern interests.
Saturday 7 March 2015
Jacobean City Comedies
Gain an insight into 17th–century London by reflecting on The Shoemaker’s Holiday by Thomas Dekker and the plays of Thomas Middleton and Ben Jonson.
Book your place shop.bris.ac.uk
The University of Bristol English Department T 0117 928 8924 E english-lifelong@bristol.ac.uk W bristol.ac.uk/english/study/part-time WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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Mum, voiceover artist and BBC Radio Bristol presenter, Faye Dicker, meets the Bristol businesses that make family life easier...
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first met Zoe Hewett nearly 3 years ago, as both our girls were early birds and spent time in NICU together. One of my stand-out memories is of us chatting in the affectionately named ‘pump room’, while Zoe described her daughter Olive’s nursery scheme. While most parents had opted for muted colours, Zoe went into detail about the wildlife wonderland wallpaper she had chosen, which sounded so magical it made my mind wander off on a thousand adventures. Scroll forward several years and both our babies are now big girls, and very much making their mark on the world. In Olive’s case, she seems to have inherited her mum’s love of colour and adores her bonkers bedroom. It makes sense when you discover that Zoe is an interior designer, with a passion for decorating work spaces and homes. With a background in theatre and set design, she’s used to making a splash in spaces – only now it’s in people’s homes, rather than on stage or screen. Zoe says that in many ways it’s similar, but instead of taking a brief from a director on stage, she takes the brief in her client’s home and makes her mark there instead. Part of her offering includes a newlyweds nest design – to help couples successfully consolidate two separate lives’ worth of belongings into a blended and balanced scheme. Looking around at my home, I wonder if we could have done with that. Our love of browsing bric-a-brac shops means we seem to own a strange array of furniture, which in my mind’s eye was stylish, but in reality feels more like a mish mash. It would seem we’re not alone in that, and Zoe explains that this eclectic look is one of the strongest trends emerging at the moment (‘trend’, I knew we were starting something) with upcycling being a part of that. So can our bric-abrac belongings be given a breath of life? Yes they can – to quote Zoe they can be ‘tarted up a bit’; tired items can be given a new lease of life with a lick of paint, upholstery or even decoupage. Just one of the many ways you can stay stylish, upcycle and be green. As an interior designer Zoe can do the work for you, or you can try your own hand and have a go at one of her workshops. As a woman who seems to be a dab hand at upcycling, does Zoe have a favourite medium to work with? Decoupage seems to be her signature style which, in simple terms, is cutting and pasting – building up layers of paper, with small pictures to make something resembling a scrap book on table tops. You can be as bold and as brave as you feel – some people opting to cover just table legs, while others may cover the whole thing. The important thing is, you make your mark and personalise your look, varnishing along the way to give a smoother feel. While I found myself wondering if this would simply add another layer of muddle into the melee, Zoe explained you could pick a theme – like music sheets, or maps – for clarity. Plus, if you use out-of-date maps, you start entering a real upcycling zone. As I write, there is a background orchestra of builders extending our house and making a playroom for the girls. If ever there was a time to make our mark, it is now – lets see if I can take a leaf out of Zoe’s book and enter the world of upcycling. No more bric-a-brac brown! n Visit: www.freelancemum.co.uk, and for more information about Zoe’s work, visit: www.zoehewettinteriors.co.uk.
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THE
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New year, new goals?
Part-time MSc Strategy, Change and Leadership Free places now available
We deliver to over 24,000 addresses every month. But if you live outside our distribution area or would like us to send a copy to friends or family then we are able to offer a mailing service for only £15.00 (6 issues) or £25.00 Euro zone; £30.00 (12 issues) or £50.00 Euro zone World Zone 1 £95.00 World Zone 2 £120.00
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Designed for busy managers to fit around a demanding management role, this part-time programme will help you to: • enhance your impact as a leader • understand organisational complexity and issues affecting success • improve your ability to manage change and uncertainty • make better choices about growth and strategic direction
Email Cheralyn at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk or Tel: 0117 331 7908 for details www.bristol.ac.uk/efm/courses/postgraduate/new/degrees Come along to our Open Evening on Wednesday 25 March between 6-7.30pm. To register, please email Cheralyn at efim-scl@bristol.ac.uk
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By Headmaster of Monmouth School, Dr Steven Connors
Succeeding through sport A
n outstanding season has helped raise the profile of rugby at Monmouth School nationally. Boys in the 1st XV have achieved a flawless set of results, despite playing some of the UK’s most highly regarded school teams and suffering a couple of debilitating injuries to two of our best players. Presently, we lie in fourth position nationally in the Daily Mail’s Schools Rugby Trophy, having most recently beaten Bromsgrove, Blundell’s, Marlborough, Cheltenham and Millfield Schools. We also remain unbeaten in the NatWest Schools Cup, having reached the last 32 following our victory against Stowe School. As we near the end of celebrations for Monmouth School’s 400th Anniversary year, the 1st team’s success could not have come at a more significant time; and as Headmaster, I loved watching them wear the specially created 400th Anniversary kit with such pride, passion and commitment. Not only does their triumph on the field demonstrate talent, hard work and determination, it also reflects how well they work as a team. One parent was so thrilled with the season, that he was moved to write to our Master i/c Rugby and former British Lion, John Bevan, saying: “The wins in the last seven days stand testimony to the boys’ resilience and spirit. “They were utterly fearless and the unrelenting vigour of their defensive game will live long in the memory. Their unity, selflessness and pride shine through; they do you great credit.” This father’s note summed up perfectly the boys’ attitude to not only sport, but also towards their studies. While we aim for top results on the pitch, academic excellence and helping to prepare pupils for their future careers are always Monmouth School’s main priorities; we are first and foremost an academic school which aims to grow our teams through coaching and development in the junior years. We find that the discipline, dedication and time management skills which are naturally developed through striving for victory in sports like rugby, rowing, football and cricket only help the boys to shine in the classroom too. Our examination results, numerous acceptances by Russell Group Universities and the fact that 26 out of the 106 boys in the Upper Sixth are applying to Oxbridge this year, all speak for themselves. *The Schools are now planning to extend their bus route to cover Cribbs Causeway.
For more information, visit habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710433 for Monmouth School or 01600 711104 for HMSG. WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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HEALTH | & BEAUTY
FIT & FAB
NEWS IN BRIEF ■ “Your spine is the backbone of your health,” says Michelle Denny of Synergy Chiropractic and Wellness, Clifton. “It protects the spinal cord which is your central switchboard, controlling all processes in the body. Health, wellbeing and vitality can be experienced fully when the spine is moving well, but pain is a signal that something needs attention. At Synergy we create all encompassing, whole body approach treatments based on each individual’s needs. By combining traditional chiropractic methods, bodywork techniques and kinesiology, alongside a revolutionary chiropractic technique called Network Spinal Analysis, our treatments enable your body to do what it does best – heal itself – so that you can be well and stay well.” To arrange your free spine check speak to Michelle on tel: 0117 370 1177 or 07889 810 910, or visit: www.synergychiropracticbristol.co.uk
Health and beauty tips to ease you into 2015
Products we’re loving this month... Feeling a bit flat after the festive season? Don’t worry, this selection of beauty boosters will revive you inside and out
Michelle at Synergy
■ Clifton College Sports Centre offers a wide range of sporting facilities, and the New Year is the perfect time for you to join up and get active. They have: • Fitness room – with the latest weighttraining and cardio equipment complete with Sky TV, in a spacious, airy and welcoming atmosphere. • 25m swimming pool – kept at 29ºC and accompanied by well-equipped changing rooms. There are adults only and open swim sessions, and a Sunday morning fun swim session for children and their families. • Squash, badminton and outdoor tennis courts (spring/summer only). There is a range of flexible membership options, including annual and monthly plans for individuals, couples and families, and no joining fee in January. Tel: 0117 315 7678 or visit www.ccsl-cliftoncollege.com
Clifton College Sports Centre pool
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• Party indulgence can leave pores clogged, and no one wants to start 2015 with a face full of blemishes. So try Bioré’s Ultra Deep Cleansing Pore Strips for an incredibly deep clean that leaves your skin clearer after just one use. Available at selected Boots, Superdrug, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Waitrose stores, £7.99 • New on the market this month, Crème de la Mer’s Illuminating Eye Gel brightens eyes on contact and works to strenthen and protect for the future. Available at Harvey Nichols, Cabot Circus, £100 • A detox with a difference – you don’t have to fast, or give up those vices you can’t live without, so there’s no excuse not to give your system a boost with this 10 day plan from The Organic Pharmacy that will boost your mood, health and overall wellbeing. Available at Debenhams, £99 • We all turn up the central heating to combat the January cold, but this can leave your skin feeling incredibly dry. To prevent this, incorporate Decléor’s Aromessence Marjolaine Nourishing Serum into your daily routine to strengthen, enrich and revitalise your skin. Available at John Lewis, £44
WIN
Banish dry lips with these gorgeous lip balms from Dr PawPaw
The buzz on the beauty scene this month is all about the miracle properties of papaya, which is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. So what better time to try Dr PawPaw’s British made, multi-purpose balm that contains this tasty ingredient alongside olive oil and Aloe Vera to give longlasting nourishment while also repairing, moisurising and soothing parched, tight skin, lips and hair. We are offering four lucky readers the chance to win a set of three lip balms. Just email your name, address and contact number to: competitions@thebristolmagazine.co.uk, making sure to write ‘Dr PawPaw Competition’ in the subject line. Deadline for entries Thursday 22 January. If you don’t win this time, you can get your hands on these delicious Dr PawPaw products in Harvey Nichols, Lloyds Pharmacy and Urban Outfitters, priced £6.95.
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New Year, New View S
tart your new year off with a bang and take the first step to enjoying a new view with Bristol Laser Vision. If you’re a glasses or contact lens wearer and feel restricted in the activities that you can do, if you hate the look of your glasses in photos, or find them uncomfortable to wear - whatever your motivation, perhaps it’s time to consider the increasingly popular solution offered by Laser Eye Surgery. Your eyesight is precious, so it’s important to
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choose your clinic carefully. Bristol Laser Vision, located within the safe and trusted surroundings of Bristol Eye Hospital, offers a consultant led service, allowing you to see your surgeon, Mr Philip Jaycock, from your first consultation. The service prides itself on providing patients with the safest and most effective laser eye surgery procedures, using state-of-the-art technology. For further information, or to book a consultation call: 0117 342 1600, email: info@bristollaservision.co.uk or visit: www.bristollaservision.co.uk.
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COMPETITION
SHOP AND STAY, THE SOMERSET WAY If you love a shopping trip, this is the competition for you – a shop and stay experience worth over £450
K
ilver Court Designer Village, based in Shepton Mallet, is the home of great designer brands at great discounted prices of up 60% off RRP all year-round. Our competition winner, armed with £200 to spend – will enjoy the day shopping, away from the hustle and bustle of the high street and find luxury labels including: Paul Smith, Toast, Joseph, LK Bennett, Pringle of Scotland, MiH Jeans, Orla Kiely, Jack Wills, Toast, Margaret Howell, Garden Trading and French Sole. And once you have shopped till you drop, you’ll head to Ston Easton Park to spend the night in relaxation heaven. Nestled in 36 acres of beautiful parkland, Ston Easton Park is unique; the country house hotel is adorned with original antique furniture, sumptuous fabrics and glistening chandeliers, creating an idyllic home away-from-home. Enjoy a five course tasting menu at the award winning restaurant, where head chef Daniel Moon uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients from local suppliers as well as the hotel garden team – almost 60% of the fresh produce used in the menus is from the hotel’s Victorian kitchen gardens. From the moment you step foot inside Ston Easton Park, expect a warm welcome from staff and resident cocker spaniel, Oscar. To be in with a chance of winning, answer this question: Where is the home of Kilver Court? Visit www.kilvercourt.com/magazine-competition and fill in the online entry form. The competition closing date is 31 January 2015. 76 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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Terms and Conditions: Booking is subject to availability excludes festive periods and bank holidays. The voucher is valid for 12 months after the competition ends. Dinner is a five course tasting menu, excluding drinks and after dinner coffee and petit fours. The prize is non-refundable and non-transferable. No cash alternative will be offered. No alternative prize will be offered if unsuitable. Full terms and conditions are available online.
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The initial consultation package of £150 in Clifton, Bristol includes
Trying for a
- AMH hormones test to assess ‘ovarian reserve’ (the number and quality of eggs that you have)
baby?
All infertility treatments offered including IUI, IVF and ICSI in Bristol and Cardiff locations
- A pelvic ultrasound to assess the ovaries and fallopian tubes - A 1 hour fertility consultation with a female Consultant Gynaecologist - A semen analysis
Ask questions via our website or meet the team and learn more about infertility diagnois and treatment at our free monthly open evenings
EmbryoScope
nancy in clinical preg 23% increase riage ar e in early misc 35% decreas st co in 0% increase est & in the South W The only clinic sively use Wales to exclu time-lapse EmbryoScope
yos
br u want your em Why would yo re? grown elsewhe
Dr Amanda O’Leary MBChB, MRCOG, MD
CRGW is an independent, bespoke centre which offers the latest scientific technology and state of the art facilities needed for al modern fertility treatments. We are located at 2 Clifton Park, Clifton and also off junction 34 of the M4, only 15 minutes from Cardiff City centre. We pride ourselves in placing patients before profit to enable affordable, cost effective treatment options while maintaining the best pregnancy rates. Options include: IUI IVF ICIS EmbryoScope time lapse monitoring Embryo freezing Egg freezing Donor egg and donor sperm treatments Female fertility assessments Sperm tests Sperm freezing Surgical sperm retrieval
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At CRGW, we care about the way we care
Centre for Reproduction and Gynaecology Wales
www.crgw.co.uk - 01443 443999 www.facebook.com/CRGW.Ltd twitter.com/crgwfertility
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BEYOND BEAUTY Harvey Nichols, 27 Philadelphia Street, Cabot Circus, BS1 3BZ. Tel: 0117 916 8888, www.harveynichols.com
REVIEW
Jenny Hayes finds Bliss at Harvey Nichols
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arrived at Beyond Beauty on the ground floor of Harvey Nichols late on a Friday afternoon, to find a happy thrum of shoppers perusing the gorgeous array of products on offer at each of the highly tempting counters. I could have quite easily been distracted by the gleaming Shu Uemura stand myself, had I not been looking forward to indulging in a much-needed pampering session in one of the treatment rooms beyond. My therapist, Michelle, met me on the shop floor with a big smile that went a long way toward reviving my tired spirit and gave me a good feeling about what was to come. This grew stronger when she led me away from the throng of people and toward an innocuous looking white door in the corner of the beauty department, which opened to reveal a haven of calm behind the bustling shop floor. What first struck me was the feeling of space, created by the vast wall to ceiling mirrors that line the corridor from which the treatment rooms branch off. Their elegant appearance was only marred when I caught my own rather frazzled reflection, which looked distinctly out of place in such glamorous surroundings. Fortunately Michelle ushered me into a treatment room at that point, which completely distracted me with its wonderful blend of clean lines and opulent décor that was at once professional looking and luxurious. The atmosphere was so relaxing that by the time I’d slipped under the crisp white sheets of the massage bed and onto the heated blanket below, my hectic day was already fading into a distant memory. Before beginning my 60-minute facial, Michelle asked me a few questions to ascertain my skin type, explaining that this would allow her to tailor the products she used to suit my individual needs. Just as no two people are the same, she explained, neither is their skin, so every facial is adapted accordingly. I also asked her a little about the product range she was using, Bliss, as I hadn’t come across it before and was intrigued to know more. She said that it was a fairly young brand, founded in 1996 in New York’s trendy SoHo area, which burst onto the spa scene with a range of original and unpretentious products. And, unlike so many beauty brands, it doesn’t puff itself up with empty promises but instead produces super-effective products that speak for themselves. As a woman tired of the patronising quasi-scientific jargon that usually surrounds skincare, I liked this renegade attitude and hoped the products would live up to the philosophy. And, wow! They didn’t disappoint. From the first application of citrus fresh cleanser to the final layer of silky smooth moisturiser, each of the 10 products
Michelle applied felt and smelt better than any I’d tried before. It would be impossible to cover them all in this short review, but the two masks she applied were so outstanding I just have to tell you about them. The first was a revolution – a triple oxygen instant energising mask that felt like a cloud forming on my face as it fizzed and fluffed, imparting glowgiving oxygen and powerful antioxidants deep into my skin, and leaving it feeling fresher than it ever has in my life. In contrast, the second was a rubberising – yes readers, rubberising – formula that felt like cool clay being smoothed onto my face as it was applied, and then set into an incredible, flexible rubber mask that wouldn’t have looked out of place in the special effects department of a Star Wars film. It was truly amazing, not only for its unusual tactile qualities but also for the effect it had on my skin, instantly evening out the tone and reducing redness, leaving it clear-looking and incredibly soft. It was not just these remarkable products that set this facial above the others I’ve had, but also Michelle’s skill as a therapist. As well as having extensive beauty training she is also a qualified aromatherapist, so throughout my facial she blended traditional techniques with aromatherapy practice to enhance my experience and the efficacy of the facial. And I felt the difference. She applied the products with sure strokes, incorporating elements of firm massage around my jaw and brow bones to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, before targeting the bags under my eyes with a lighter touch, gently tapping across the skin to aid lymphatic drainage and combat puffiness. Not only did this feel great, but it also worked in conjunction with the groundbreaking products to produce visible results. When I looked in the mirror at the end of the treatment, I barely recognised the fresh-faced girl who blinked back at me. My skin glowed, and I felt so confident with the results I happily skipped out of Harvey Nichols completely make-up free. And it didn’t end there – my skin honestly looked sensational for days afterwards. Not quite believing the results myself, I put them to the test on Monday morning by going to work armed only with a swipe of mascara across my eyelashes. Usually this ‘natural’ look is greeted by cries of dismay and genuine concern that I look ‘exhausted’ (sigh), but not this time. Instead a colleague took one look at my bright complexion and remarked how well I looked – a miracle that I wholly attribute to the revelation that was a facial at Harvey Nichols. n Beauty Room Facial £20, redeemable on Beyond Beauty products.
❝
I FELT SO CONFIDENT WITH THE RESULTS I HAPPILY SKIPPED HOME MAKEUP FREE
❞
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Cosmetic Surgery at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital – The Chesterfield
D
eciding to have cosmetic surgery is a big decision and choosing a good hospital with the right surgeon is vital to ensuring you are happy with the procedure and its outcomes. At Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital – The Chesterfield, we are committed to providing high quality and effective patient care to ensure our patients are as comfortable as possible when making any decisions regarding surgery. It is this commitment which has led our patient survey to reveal 100% trust and satisfaction in our care. The launch of the Nuffield Health Promise was a first for private healthcare and gives patients added comfort and reassurance that there are no hidden extras and that quality of care is top priority. Our team of Cosmetic Surgeons offer a wide range of surgical and noninvasive treatments for individuals seeking a boost to their confidence or a change to their appearance. Our Cosmetic Surgeons’ top 5 tips 1) Do your research It may sound obvious but you could be about to embark on something life changing if you are thinking about altering your appearance. You will be putting your trust in the Cosmetic Surgeon who is going to do this for you, so go online, ask about qualifications, take advantage of opportunities to ask for advice. A reputable surgeon and hospital will encourage you to do so.
don’t like my nose’. Think about what it is you don’t like about your nose. Is it too long, crooked or pointed at the end? The more specific you can be about what you want to achieve then the more likely your surgeon is to be able to help you. 4) Be clear on what you are paying for Some centres offer really outstanding deals, so when you do your research, be sure you are clear on what you are paying for. If you are offered a free consultation, what does this include and who is it with? How many follow ups will you have with your surgeon and is this built into the package price? Nuffield Health offers transparent and competitive pricing with no hidden surprises. 5) Have a realistic goal Individuals considering plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons generally fall into two categories: either they want to alter their appearance or enhance what they already have. It is important that your expectations are reasonable and your surgeon should help you to identify what is realistically achievable. Be wary of over-promises because chances are that’s what they probably are. Interested in cosmetic surgery? We hold regular open events which are free to attend. Get the Nuffield Treatment: • All inclusive pricing • Consultant care from start to finish
2) Listen to recommendations Do you have friends or family members who have had cosmetic surgery? How did they find the experience? Many patients find the recommendations of others invaluable in helping to make a decision. 3) Be clear on what you want to achieve It can be difficult for a Cosmetic Surgeon when a patient says ‘I 80 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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• No time limits on aftercare* For dates and information: Call: 0117 911 1990 Visit: www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol * Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Meet some of our team Ms Lisa Sacks Lisa Sacks is a highly respected consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in Bristol and is known for her extensive and long term patient care and high levels of patient satisfaction. Her finely honed sense of aesthetics also forms an important part of her parallel career as a sculptor specialising in the human form.
Mr Antonio Orlando Antonio has an excellent reputation in all aspects of cosmetic surgery including breast surgery (enlargement, lift and reduction), face lifts, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and rhinoplasty (nose surgery), body contouring including abdominoplasty and liposuction and other non-surgical procedures. Antonio receives referrals from other Consultant Plastic Surgeons throughout the UK because of his expertise in nose reshaping. He is also one of the leading skin cancer experts in the South West and has a special interest in head and neck surgery and skin cancer.
Mr Jonathon Pleat This interest has culminated in his role as Director of Research for the burns and wound healing charity, Restore. He oversees scar research at Oxford University, publishes widely and collaborates with scarring groups internationally. He lectures internationally about scarring.
Mr Nigel Mercer Nigel has been recommended as one of the best face lift surgeons in the United Kingdom (Dr Mark Porter, in Sainsbury's Magazine, February 2008) and has an excellent reputation for all cosmetic surgery procedures. Nigel is the only person to have been elected President of the main Plastic Surgery Associations in the UK (BAPRAS and BAAPS). He has also been the lead delegate for the British Standards Institute (BSI) at the European negotiations which have produced the European Standard in Aesthetic Surgery. He has championed patient safety for his whole career.
He is passionate about the prevention and treatment of scarring and believes in a scientific, holistic, team approach. The Scar Team at Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital use a number of cutting-edge approaches to skin scarring under his lead. The members of the group have over 100 years’ experience in treating scarring and cover every treatment sphere, from camouflage make up to psychological support.
Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital The Chesterfield, 3 Clifton Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1BN Tel: 0117 911 1990. • www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/bristol WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
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HEALTH | & BEAUTY
BEAUTY DETOX If the post party season has left you feeling tired and lack lustre, a beauty detox is the perfect way to outshine the overindulgence and late nights, says Rachelle Howells, manager of Beyond Beauty at Harvey Nichols Bristol
I
n addition to healthy eating and exercise, January is also a time to focus on rejuvenating your complexion, hair and body, ensuring you feel revitalised and get your glow back for the year ahead. 1: Rodial X-treme 5% Acid Micro Scrub, £45 2: Rodial Super Acids X-treme Hangover Mask, £45 3: Bliss Fat Girl Lean Machine, £120 4: O‘Right Green Tea Moisturizing Cream, £23.50 5: Elemis Advanced Brightening Serum, £59 6: O'Right Goji Berry Revitalizing Cream, £30 7: This Works, Deep Sleep Night Oil, £25 8: Elemis Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow, £36.50 9: Konjac Sponge Co. French Pink Clay Facial Puff Sponge, £9 10: Bliss Active 99.0 Multi-Action Eye Cream, £58.50 11: Harvey Nichols You Beauty Tea, £6.95 12: FOREO ISSA Cobalt Blue Toothbrush, £149 All products are available in Beyond Beauty at Harvey Nichols Bristol, or can be ordered online at harveynichols.com
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Take a first step to better health Nutritional Therapist Elspeth Waters, for CNM (College of Naturopathic Medicine), looks at the benefits of green juicing to set you on the path to a healthy new year.
I
f you're feeling a little sluggish after the festive season, drinking a green juice/smoothie first thing in the morning a few times a week can help to supercharge and super cleanse your digestive system. And since, as the father of medicine, Hippocrates, notably observed, "all disease begins in the gut", keeping it clean should definitely be a priority. Our poor 21st Century bodies are faced with a barrage of toxic chemicals on a daily basis, from food and our environment. Also, it takes a lot of effort to digest a big meal - mechanically and chemically (enzymatically). Our livers were not designed to cope with all that so it's good to give the digestive system a helping hand now and then, and a quick green smoothie is an easy way to do it. Liquids travel through the stomach and small intestines without making too many demands for stomach acid or enzymes (hydrochloric acid and pepsin are released in the stomach in response to proteins, largely). The raw plants in the smoothie provide some enzymes of their own so they don't require so many to be made and released from the pancreas. You can really blend any greens you like. They all contain heaps of energising B vitamins, including natural folate, as well as other vital vitamins and minerals. Greens do leave something of a bitter taste by themselves but this can quickly be masked by fresh lemon juice, apple, berries, mint leaves and/or ginger. Don't have any more fruit than a handful of berries or 1 medium apple per serving as your liver doesn't cope well with any more of a fructose hit than that and we want to keep blood sugar levels nice and stable, especially first thing in the morning, because it can be hard to get off the sugarcraving roller-coaster once you set off in the wrong direction.
Equipment • Blender • Glass • Glass jar/protein shaker to keep half in fridge if not using all at once.
QUICK & EASY GREEN SMOOTHIE
Elspeth Waters
Ingredients Opt for unprocessed organic ingredients to minimise intake of immunesuppressing toxins. This makes enough for 2 people, or half can be saved in a sealed container and refrigerated for breakfast the next day. •1/3 cucumber • 4 radishes • 1-2 medium apples • 4 large lettuce leaves • 1 handful mixed spinach, rocket & watercress • 1-2 inches fresh ginger • 60ml Organic aloe vera juice Optional metabolism-boosting/cleansing extras: turmeric powder, chlorella, spirulina, wheatgrass, cayenne powder/tincture. WWW.THEBRISTOLMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Directions • Roughly chop ingredients and add gradually to blender. • Pour into glasses and drink - ideally through a straw to spare your tooth enamel/reduce sensitivity. • Refrigerate any leftovers. And that's all there is to it! Raw, enzymerich greens ready to drink in 5 minutes! Plus, the beauty of having fruit and/or liquid food on an empty stomach is that it goes straight through your digestive system in approx 20-30 minutes. So, if you're still hungry after your juice (and chances are you will be until you get used to it) you can follow it an hour later with some avocado and salad or some steamed veggies, and still be doing your digestive system a real favour. This simple Smoothie could be the first, easy step on your path to better health in 2015.
Attend a FREE CNM Open Evening in Bristol Thursday 15th January 6.30pm-8.30pm to find out about training with CNM Bristol for a career in Naturopathic Nutrition or Naturopathic Acupuncture. Please reserve your free place on line at:
www.naturopathy-uk.com 01342 410 505 JANUARY 2015
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OUT | AND ABOUT
STEP BACK IN TIME With Andrew Swift, as he takes us on a journey through historic Blaise Castle and Kingsweston
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uch of this month’s walk lies through two great country estates – Blaise Castle and Kingsweston. En route it takes in scenery of almost Alpine splendour, thatched cottages, the grave of Scipio Africanus, a house designed by the architect of Blenheim Palace, a panoramic view of Horseshoe Bend, and the 18th century folly of Blaise Castle. To get to the starting point, take the Severn Beach line to Sea Mills. Turn right out of the station, go under the Portway and bear left across the grass to follow the River Trym upstream. Carry on across a road and follow a path into woodland. At the main road, bear right, cross over (at the zebra crossing) and take a footpath to the right of the Mill House Inn. After a squeeze stile, bear left when the path forks. ● Carry on across a tarmac path, through a meadow, under a road bridge and along a causeway. At a crosspath, bear left up to a lane and turn right. After a few metres, bear left into a car park and carry on through a kissing gate (KG) along a carriage drive. ● When you have followed this for about 300m the River Trym curves right, but, instead of following it, carry on to follow the Hazel Brook along Coombe Dingle. After passing an ornamental bridge on the left, the cliffs of Lover’s Leap tower ahead. ● After another 300m, you come to a bridge (ST561783). The boarded-up mill beyond it came here from the Chew Valley in 1949. Turn right to follow a drive as it zigzags uphill, and carry on past an 18th century cottage orné, now boarded up and roofed with metal. ● At the end, go through lodge gates, cross a road and turn left along it for 500m (ST567781). After crossing Trymwood Close, cross the main road and follow a footpath sign through a KG and alongside a high wall. When the wall ends, fork right, go down steps and cross the Hazel Brook. Two tunnels lead under the vicarage garden and up a flight of steps into Henbury churchyard, where the gravestone of Scipio Africanus can be seen near the north porch. 86 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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● Head through the churchyard gates and turn left by 17th century Close House. At the main road, bear left, before crossing and turning right down Halland Road. After 100m, go through a gate on the left to visit Blaise Hamlet, designed by John Nash in 1811 as almshouses for retired workers on the Blaise Castle estate. ● Retrace your steps up Halland Road, cross at the top, turn left and, at Church Road, go through a gateway on the right. This leads between high walls, past a stable yard to Blaise Castle House, home to a fascinating museum. ● Carry on past the house and, when the path forks, bear left. After a diversion to the left to see Nash’s orangery and thatched dairy, return to the path and, as it starts to head downhill, bear right up a gravel path. After 125m, when it enters woodland, turn left. A few metres further on, turn right at a T junction. Carry straight on uphill past a cave. Just beyond it, a viewing platform commands a view over Coombe Dingle. A little further on is an even more spectacular viewpoint on the edge of Lover’s Leap. ● Turning round, another surprise awaits – Blaise Castle, hidden until now by a bank of trees, stands before you in lordly isolation. Climb up to the open space surrounding it – originally an iron age hillfort – head for a path 25m along on the left and head down it to emerge in a meadow (ST557783). Bear left, follow a path up into woods and bear right along a broad path. After 400m, turn left up a crosspath – easy to miss, but look for a white arrow on a tree (ST552780). When the path emerges into the open, bear right to follow a track across Kingsweston Down. After 750m (just past a mast), the path joins a gravel track. As you continue through a KG, you will see the old Kingsweston Inn on your right (ST544772). ● Carry on across a footbridge and go up steps through a gap in the wall on the right. Carry on past a loggia known as the Echo and designed, like Kingsweston House, by Sir John Vanbrugh, the architect of Blenheim Palace.
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OUT | AND ABOUT ● Head towards Kingsweston House, but, just before it, turn right past an old brewhouse. At the road, cross and head up the road opposite to see the old stable block and two lodges flanking a lily pond. The medieval Bewy’s Cross across the pond originally stood on the bank of the Severn at Avonmouth. ● Head back to Kingsweston House and bear right along its north side. Carry straight on along a stony track for 250m, before bearing right along a broad path with large stones across it. Carry on across crosspaths, and, when the path forks, bear right along the broader path and carry on through woods to emerge into an open space (ST532772). The two low ruined walls flanking the path are all that survives of Penpole Lodge, demolished in 1950. ● A little way ahead is a large sundial, now without a gnomon to tell the hours. It stands on Penpole Point, which once commanded one of the finest prospects in the area, but is now surrounded by trees. ● Turn round and head back, but, when you come to the ruined lodge, head straight on to the right of it. When you come to a road, carry on along it for 100m before turning right down a footpath alongside a playing field. At the road, cross and head to the left of a lodge into the golfclub car park. Follow the hedge on the right as it leads round to a narrow path heading down into woodland. At the bottom, when you come to a KG (ST536767), turn left along a path winding along the edge of the golf course. After 200m, the undergrowth clears and you get a superb view of Horseshoe Bend. ● Now retrace your steps and go through the KG. Carry on along a cul de sac, and, when you reach the main road, cross over and turn right. At the end, turn left, left and left again, before following pedestrian signs down Station Road and across a footbridge to Shirehampton station. n A longer version of this walk can be found in Andrew Swift’s Walks from Bristol’s Severn Beach Line, published by Akeman Press, visit: www.akemanpress.com
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KING OF THE CASTLE: main image, Blaise Castle; above, view from Lover’s Leap
FURTHER INFORMATION... ■
Distance: 9 miles
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Time: 5 hours
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Level of challenge: Mostly on rough paths through woods and parkland.
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Map: OS Explorer 155
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Refreshment stops: The cafe at Kingsweston House repoens in early 2015. The Lamplighters Inn, just past Shirehampton Station, is open all day from 11am, and Blaise Castle Museum is open weekdays 10:30am – 4pm (November – March).
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GARDENING GARDENING
EASY PEASY Our Bristol garden design writer Margaux Speirs explains how to create a low maintenance gravel garden
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t is usually too wet to dig and plant in January, but it’s a good time to make structural changes to your garden. We lead such busy lives that many of us need to find low maintenance ideas to make the garden easy to manage whilst still being good to look at. We are also becoming increasingly “water wise” – aware that it is better to plant things which are drought tolerant rather than be committed to watering the garden throughout the summer. These are the main reasons that gravel gardening is increasingly popular. Rain water drains through the gravel so it is a drier environment for plants than normal garden soil. Provided the area to be planted has a fair amount of sun, think of your gravel garden as having a Mediterranean climate and you will understand what will thrive there. The best known gravel garden in the UK is Beth Chatto’s in Essex, and the website contains a long list of plants which are suited to gravel planning: www.bethchatto.co.uk. As a general guide, if it has silver or hairy leaves, needles or leathery leaves, it is a plant adapted to tolerate drought. To create the gravel garden, first choose the shape: if it is to be geometric, edging with a little box hedge and setting occasional sawn-edged stone paving slabs within the gravel is a good effect, but I think the best gravel gardens have loose, curvy shapes which look as if they have been created by nature. “Everedge” is an easy to use steel edging product to keep the edge of the gravel garden separate from adjoining turf or soil borders. It has spikes to hold it in the ground and it can be bent round even quite tight curves. Alternatively use treated timber edging or bricks mortared into place. Next decide on the colour and size of the gravel. Matching the colour to
the materials used in the construction of your house or to other hard surfaces already in the garden is a good idea and locally sourced gravel is often the cheapest. My personal favourite is South Cerney in size 10 to 20mm: this is a Cotswold aggregate with rounded pieces in shades of cream and subtle, light brown. Larger, rounded pebbles are more uncomfortable to walk on and smaller grades can get carried into the house in shoe soles and scratch polished floors. You will need to spread the gravel to a depth of at least 2in (5cm) – ideally much more: up to 6in or 15cm – and the gravel usually comes in dumpty bags of 25kg which will cover 0.6 square metres (0.7sq yards) at a depth of 2in. Prepare your soil so, for example, if it is poor soil add compost and if it is badly draining add gritty material. Remove weeds and rake the surface flat without unduly compressing the soil. Next cover the area with a geotextile membrane such as Mypex which allows water and nutrients through but reduces the light so weeds cannot grow. Most garden centres stock this. Before putting the gravel over the membrane decide where you want to place your plants and cut small crosses in the membrane with a sharp knife. Folding back the corners of each cross, dig out from under it an amount of soil roughly equal to the volume of the plant pot and pop the plant in the hole. Put the membrane back and gently spread the gravel around the plant. (If you are planting in deeper gravel you will want to place the plants so that their “necks” are at the surface. Very deep gravel doesn’t need a membrane.) As for any new plants, during the first few months after planting you will need to make sure they do not dry out as their root systems are not yet established. You may also need to tackle small annual weeds until your plants are big
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THE BEST GRAVEL GARDENS HAVE CURVY SHAPES THAT LOOK AS IF THEY HAVE BEEN CREATED BY NATURE
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GARDENING
enough to suppress these. A friend of mine vacuums her gravel garden from time to time (with a gadget which sucks up or blows leaves) especially at the end of the summer when plants are setting seed, as she says this gets up the seeds before they can germinate. Personally I think life is too short to vacuum the garden! As for the design, a limited palette of colours and shapes works best and plant in groups rather than singly unless a particular plant is a “diva” and needs its own space to perform. (Giant oat grass – stipa gigantean – is a wonderful star performer in a gravel garden.) Starting furthest from the front edge, plant winding ribbons of taller plants in colour combinations that appeal to you. Silvery leaves look best against a contrasting dark green (for example, santolina in front of cordyline or yucca) and purple looks wonderful with acid green, such as aliums with euphorbia x martini. Bring the height down as you approach the front of the bed. Small feathery grass such as stipa tenuissima looks lovely along the front as you can look through it to appreciate the colours and textures beyond. If you can face being outside to prepare the ground and plant things in a mild January it is actually a great time to buy trees and hardy shrubs by mail order. They often come bare rooted in a dormant state and if you get them in the ground quickly after purchase then nature will do all the watering and care for you so that come the spring they will be well established and ready to grow strongly. However Mediterranean plants are best planted in April or May when the worst of the winter is over. (It is not difficult to plant through the gravel once it has been laid: you will just need to trowel some aside down to the Mypex layer in order to cut and plant through that layer.) The biggest online plant shop is Crocus and The Daily Telegraph recently nominated them as the best online plant supplier, but Beth Chatto Gardens also has an excellent online nursery and they specialise in herbaceous perennials and grasses for gravel beds. n Margaux Speirs, a pre-registered member of the Society of Garden Designers, runs her business, Margaux Speirs Garden Design from her home in Bristol. Visit: www.margauxspeirsgardendesign.co.uk or tel: 07903 779910.
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PLANT OF THE MONTH: Cyclamen coum is grown for its stunning kidney shaped or rounded, often silvery, leaves as well as its winter flowers. The leaves appear in autumn, then die down in summer. The swept back petals range in colour from deepest carmine to purest white and all have a magenta blotch at the base. The flowers appear in late December or early January, and continue well into March. The plants need shade or part shade and moderately fertile, humus rich, welldrained soil. They look lovely underneath the winter-bare branches of deciduous plants and shrubs and they complement other winter flowering bulbs such as snow drops and crocuses.
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INTERIOR | DESIGN
CLEAN AND GREEN Stella Whitcombe, director of contemporary Scandinavian furniture store BoConcept Bristol, shows us how to furnish our homes responsibly
The Mezzo sofa offers luxurious lounging
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hen someone comes to your front door what does your home say about you? Who is living in this home? What are their values? Every choice you make reflects and shapes the life you live. Look at how you live and then look at how you’d like to live. The choices you make should include the impact the manufacturing of your furniture has had on the environment. Modular furniture is great because it allows you to create your own individual yet coordinated pieces to make your dream home a reality. But furniture packaged according to the knocked down principle, including unassembled sofas and compressed mattresses, also means that loads can be optimised and thus reduce the number of transports and emissions. A good indoor environment is important to your health and well-being. It is not only the ventilation and construction materials of the building, but also the things you have inside, that influence the indoor environment of your home. The Indoor Climate Label helps consumers make qualified decisions when it comes to choosing products that contribute to a healthy indoors, so look for a manufacturer who has received this label because it means that their products have been tested thoroughly with regards to release of gases and odours, and their products are safer to bring into your home. Flat pack furniture usually consists of lacquered veneers on MDF and particle board. UV based lacquer on veneers hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light, which enables the avoidance of using chemicals. Instead of
Meda wall system, can be combined with Lugano (right)
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using solid wood in production, MDF and furniture board are made from wood waste in the form of sawdust, reclaimed wood or small wood pieces; a choice that effectively cuts down the need for raw materials. Also, flat packed furniture should be wrapped with recycled cardboard, further reducing the need for raw materials. At BoConcept the waste from polyurethane (PUR) foam, which is used for seat cushions, is collected and shredded into granules which are then mixed with downs for back cushions reducing the consumption of new materials. CFC and HCFC refrigerants when making foam for upholstery products are harmful to the environment and you, so ensure they were not used in the manufacture of your foam cushions. Unfortunately, PVC (poly-vinyl-chloride) is still one of the most common plastic materials in the world. In furniture, PVC is mainly used in synthetic leather sofas and chairs. In many cases, phthalates are used to soften the PVC. PVC in furniture is harmful to the environment while phthalates are considered to disturb our hormonal systems. And avoid any manufacturer that uses Azo dyes in textiles and leathers as they can result in allergic reactions We all have a responsibility to do things better both locally and globally, because taking care of our planet and each other is a task that we must never give up on. n All products pictured are available from BoConcept Bristol, tel: 0117 927 2494 or visit: www.boconcept.com
The Lugano wall system with optional integrated sound system and lighting
CSKB NOV14 .qxp_Layout 1 18/12/2014 16:02 Page 1
www.chippingsodburykitchens.co.uk
Over 20 years experience of designing & installing kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms including all aspects of building & renovation work
BEAUTIFUL C S K B • 400 GLOUCESTER ROAD • HORFIELD • BRISTOL BS7 8TR TEL: 0117 924 6165
DESIGNS FOR LIFE!
E: sales@cs-kitchens.co.uk
Open: Monday to Friday 9am – 5.30pm. Saturday 10am – 5pm.
Custom Designed. Computer Imagery. Total Project Management.
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Ebony Rose CLASSICAL & RETRO FURNITURE WORKSHOP
⁄ 14 West Street, Old Market, Bristol, BS2 0BH info@ebonyroseupholster y.co . u k
N S ow al e O n!
www.ebonyroseupholster y.co . u k
Are you looking for new lighting for any area at the home? Are you overwhelmed with the options available? Can’t find the solution to your problem? Come and see the experts to help you through the options available. We have one of the largest displays in our freshly refitted showroom Lighting design service available. Our showroom displays fittings from the UK, European and Worldwide sources. For all areas of the home and garden. Decorative low energy on display.
Tel: 0117 963 5943 • Fax: 0117 963 4735 Unit 2, Sheene Way, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4TA Free Car Parking Available Email: enquiries@lightingwarehousebristol.co.uk Web: www.lightingwarehousebristol.co.uk LIGHT FITTINGS WALL LIGHTS TABLE & FLOOR LAMPS MIRRORS & GLASS FURNITURE
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Opening hours: Mon - Sat 9:00am - 5:30pm
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▲
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Solid oak chest of dovetailed drawers with reclaimed mahogany handles, finished with Danish oil and beeswax £1400 by Rooted Furniture, a small company producing locally sourced, handmade freestanding and fitted furniture for the home and garden. Tel: 07817 279494 or visit: www.rootedfurniture.co.uk
Glasgow Toile and London Toile cushions each £99, Empire Bee cushion £80, and Imperial Apiary wallpaper £240 per roll, by legendary Glaswegian brand Timorous Beasties from Whittaker Wells, who themselves provide a design-led, makingcentric approach to interiors. 105 Glenfrome Road, St Werburghs, BS2 9UY. Tel: 0117 959 5773 or visit: www.whittakerwells.com
▲
BRISTOL’S FINEST
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It’s that wonderful time of year, when we can merrily sling out our creaky old furniture and faded soft furnishings, crying “Out with the old and in with the new!” But what to replace them with? Take a leaf out of the Bristol 2015 book and shop local, as the city is full of talented craftspeople and independent retailers who can offer you unique, sustainable interiors that are the epitome of green glamour.
Peacock cushion £55, and matching lampshade £60 by Katie Wallis available from Room 212, a one stop destination for original designs by Bristol-based artists. Room 212, Gloucester Road, BS7 8NU. Tel: 0117 330 2789 or visit: www.room212.co.uk
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HOMES | ON SHOW
SPLASH OUT ON FAIROAKS Marianne Swinkels finds the perfect work/life balance at this unusual property in one of the city’s most desirable suburbs
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ever mix business with pleasure. It’s an oft heard mantra, a commonly cited and cautionary piece of “don’t do it” advice hinting that the merest overstepping of this fine line is altogether daft, dangerous, or downright tricky.
There’s a plethora of sites on the good ole “tinternet” dedicated to this conundrum, offering ready strategies, tactics, tips and tutorials on how to avoid this potential conflict or deal with the consequences should you get into a muddle over this delicate work/social life combo. To summarise from one such website which warns against upsetting this balance: “Put simply, perform your professional functions while in your work environment and keep the playtime activities for another location.” Really? Ignore all these pronouncements and opinions on what you should and shouldn’t do. Because they have never been to Fairoaks. I have. And you can. And if you do choose to visit this prestigious address, you’ll see what I mean. There can surely be no finer example of business and pleasure successfully melding together in one space, offering a truly winning blend that makes a mockery of this adage. This architect designed house in one of the most coveted BS postcode locations, politely sticks two fingers up at all such stuff and nonsense, pointing instead to another belief that ‘all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. And the vendors surely went along with this. For when they sought to add an indoor swimming pool to their prime detached property in leafy Cadbury Camp Lane, they gave the thumbs up to a spacious leisure complex – combined with a mezzanine level home office. This is one very appealing mix. From its lofty vantage point the snazzy office directly overlooks the vaulted poolroom below and through the vast roof-to-ground expanse of cathedral style windows at one end of the 48ft 96 THE BRISTOL MAGAZINE
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long complex, you can admire the view of the landscaped grounds beyond. Within a minute of leaving this apex workplace you could nip downstairs for a refreshing plunge. Or take time out in an adjoining games room, and play a spot of pool perhaps. Or have an indoor workout and spa before strolling outside to ‘take the air’ and take in the surrounds from the shrub screened decking.
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HOMES | ON SHOW
PROPERTY PROFILE Where: Fairoaks, Cadbury Camp Lane, Clapton in Gordano, BS20 7SA What: Architect designed detached house in private woodland setting. 4.4 acres in total including formal gardens.
Specifications: Indoor leisure complex including heated swimming pool, games room, mezzanine floor office. Glazed linkway to main house. Open plan kitchen/dining/ lounge, drawing room with open fire. Five double bedrooms (two en-suites), one family bathroom. Detached double garage with loft room and potential for conversion/extension.
Asking price: OIEO £1,650,000 Agent: Hamptons International, 80 Queens Road, Clifton, BS8 1QU Contact: Email: bristol@hamptons-int.com or tel: 0117 901 5591
And as this classy ‘wing’ is linked to the main house via a glazed entrance room, this generous space can be opened up for serious social entertaining. Ooops, or should I say corporate hospitality slash office parties? Both glorious possibilities, whatever your take. Whichever way you look at it, Fairoaks sits pretty in its favoured south facing site in this very select, secluded, secure, 24/7 CCTV monitored private lane. All residences in Cadbury Camp Lane are synonymous with exclusive, bespoke homes on significantly sized plots. Prized for its sylvan parkland setting within easy proximity to Clifton, central Bristol and leading independent prep school The Downs, it has long been dubbed ‘millionaires row’. And, with a £1.65 m price tag, this 5 bedroom detached property with almost an acre of mature gardens is no exception. There’s still more to come – and the clue is in the name: an impressive further four acres of oaked woodland that go with this abode. All yours to wander about in. Plenty of scope then to gather your own logs for the drawing room fire
where the generous triple aspect windows grant full views of the gardens, flower borders, stream, woods and wildlife beyond. It would seem a sin to hide such a nature-rich backdrop with curtains, drapes or other such frippery. This contemporary style 1997 built home was designed with just the opposite in mind; an abundance of glazing to capitalize on the natural light and skyscape of trees in its woodland setting. Especially the generous kitchen/dining/sitting room, which enjoy the best views and light from a swathe of glass and doors opening directly onto another large decked terrace. With its open plan design, flow is everything here and it is this heart-of-thehome room that gives this large house big personality. Cook, dine, relax in this uncluttered space and simply soak it all in. Before trudging back to work… all the way back along the corridor. What, you might wish to ask, are there no cons to life at Fairoaks? In truth there may be one slight hitch; just too many enticements to actually go and sit in that office! n
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THERE CAN SURELY BE NO FINER EXAMPLE OF BUSINESS AND PLEASURE SUCCESSFULLY MELDING TOGETHER IN ONE SPACE
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BRISTOL PROPERTY | IN FOCUS
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his lovely Grade II listed family home has been carefully restored and renovated with a quality finish throughout. The accommodation is across four floors and there is an opportunity to create a self-contained apartment on the lower ground floor or to incorporate this into the main living space. There are effectively two main rooms on each floor with the ground floor providing a large kitchen/breakfast room, dining room and utility room which gives access to a covered porch area and the rear garden. On the first floor the drawing room leads out onto a lovely full width covered balcony and the master bedroom has a walk in wardrobe and a generous shower room. There are three further bedrooms on the second floor and an enviable family bathroom with free standing bath and separate shower. The lower ground floor can be access from either the staircase hall or from a separate access at the rear of the property. There are several options for the use of this space, including a one bedroom apartment or two additional bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom for the main house. Outside there is ample off street parking for a number of cars as well as a garage and the pretty gardens to the front and rear offer privacy and space for dining and relaxing. This Clifton beauty is packed with period features and offers all the flexibility and style needed to suit the modern family. For full details and an appointment to view, contact agents Knight Frank. Knight Frank, Regent House, 27A Regent Street, Clifton, Bristol. Tel: 0117 317 1999
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RICHMOND HILL AVENUE CLIFTON • Five bedrooms • Possible self contained apartment or additional living space • First floor drawing room with full width balcony • Two kitchens • Three bathrooms • Ample parking and gardens
Guide Price £1,450,000
Robert Rhys f.qxp_Layout 1 18/12/2014 10:21 Page 1
Bristol & Clifton’s premier Commercial Property Agents Keep up-to-date with our latest news and market comments at our website: www.burstoncook.co.uk
(0117) 934 9977
FOR SALE – CLIFTON
FOR SALE ORCHARD HOUSE, BS1
A fantastic studio office building with large 2 storey extension –
A Georgian period office building with consent for 5 bed house –
C 3,000 sq ft (gross) High quality fit out –
Freehold - £350,000
Could suit residential – £595,000 ONO QUEEN SQUARE BS1
FOR SALE - WESSEX HOUSE, PORTISHEAD
High quality air conditioned open plan office suite of 1,568 sq ft -
Modern detached office building of 3,143 sq ft in established location –
New lease –
Good parking –
Only £13 per sq ft
Freehold on application 157 WHITELADIES ROAD
TO LET – CLIFTON D1 former dental surgery of c 1,500 sq ft –
Large retail unit of 1,750 sq ft + lower floor of 760 sq ft
Suit office use –
*Suit other uses*
Prime Clifton site –
EXCELLENT LOCATION
New lease QUEENS ROAD, CLIFTON
177, WHITELADIES ROAD
Corner shop in busy main road in Clifton –
Former Estate Agents shop with offices above –
New lease –
C 1,895 sq ft –
Only £11,250 pax
New lease
CLIFTON VILLAGE
509 WELLS ROAD Office / shop unit in V prominent main road location – New fit out – Only £8,000 pax
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FREEHOLD SALES GREAT GEORGE STREET
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CITY INVESTMENT 16 WEST STREET OLD MARKET (close to Cabot Circus and Temple Meads)
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A rare opportunity to purchase a beautiful Georgian building forming part of Royal Colonnade. Office use with potential to create a fine period home. Attractive and secluded rear garden Only £695,000
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New conversion of 8 high quality flats (potential for additional flat) + established ground floor bar/restaurant. Very popular letting location Fully let at £77,240 PAX Price £895,000 ONO
CLIFTON VILLAGE
INVESTMENT – CHIPPENHAM
A fantastic studio office building with large 2 storey extension c 3,000 sq ft gross – High quality fit out –
Large retail unit let to Greggs + interconnecting rear bakery – High street location –
Would also suit residential –
Let to Greggs on FRI lease to 2018 at a rent of £48,000 pax –
Only £595,000
Freehold - £550,000
(0117) 934 9977
*Please note we will be closed from the 23rd December, reopening 29th & 30th then closed until 5th January 2015. Julian Cook FRICS
Burston Cook January.indd 2
Jayne Rixon MRICS
Charlie Kershaw MRICS
Finola Ingham MRICS
18/12/2014 12:38
www.maggsandallen.co.uk
0117 949 9000 60 Northumbria Drive, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9 4HW
SOLD
SOLD
STOKE BISHOP
SOLD
HENLEAZE
SOLD
BISHOPSTON
SOLD
HENLEAZE
SOLD
REDLAND
SOLD
WESTBURY PARK
SOLD
HAM GREEN
MANGOTSFIELD
SOLD
SOLD
REDLAND
Struggling to sell with your current agent?
SOLD
WESTBURY-ON-TRYM
SOLD
All of these properties were marketed with other local firms without success and ALL sold with us in 2014 this cannot just be down to good luck! If you are considering selling in 2015 or are currently being marketed by another Estate Agency without success, we would be delighted to hear from you.
WESTBURY PARK
SOLD
REDLAND
SOLD
Improve your chances of selling by instructing Maggs & Allen Estate Agents To discuss your requirements in confidence please contact us on
0117 949 9000 or email agency@maggsandallen.co.uk CITY CENTRE
SOLD
HORFIELD
SOLD
ASHLEY DOWN 1
SOLD
SOLD
WESTBURY-ON-TRYM
SOLD
HORFIELD
Estate Agents
Maggs & Allen January.indd 1
SOLD
HORFIELD
SOLD
HENLEAZE
SOLD
HENLEAZE
SOLD
WESTBURY PARK
Lettings & Auctioneers New Homes Management
SOLD
HENBURY
SOLD
HENLEAZE
Chartered Surveyors
SNEYD PARK
SOLD
ASHLEY DOWN 2
Commercial/ Investment
HORFIELD
Energy Assessors
18/12/2014 09:31
Richard Harding fp January.qxp_Layout 6 15/12/2014 11:40 Page 1
Richard Harding Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Auctioneers • Valuers
0117 946 6690 www.richardharding.co.uk 124 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2RP
G IN M N CO SOO
A large 7/8 bedroom, 3 reception room late Victorian period home with flexible accommodation arranged over 3 floors, a 40ft x 28ft split level rear garden & off street parking. Situated in the heart of Redland with Cotham Gardens Park and Redland train station just at the end of the road. EPC: E
REDLAND guide range £800,000 - £825,000
An impressive & individual detached family residence of exceptional quality standing within a circa 1/3rd acre plot in an exclusive and prestigious location near the Downs - one of Stoke Bishop’s most coveted neighbourhoods - with large double garage, ample parking and beautiful mature gardens and grounds. EPC: E
STOKE BISHOP guide POA
Selling in the Spring… or the New Year… or Now?
COOMBE DINGLE guide range £550,000 - £565,000
Grove Road – An exceptionally smart & welcoming 4 bedroom, 2/3 reception room detached family residence with a stylish & bright interior, ample off street parking, level garden & garage. Constructed in 2007, this gated development of 2 houses is set in a lovely leafy location. EPC: C
BISHOPSTON guide range: £500,000 - £525,000
An attractive, well-proportioned 4 bedroom, 3 reception, 2 bath/shower room Edwardian period family house, situated on a much sought after road within Redland Green School AFP. Excellent family accommodation, sunny fully enclosed garden to the rear. EPC: D
Everyone’s circumstances are different & the key to making the right decision is to get early advice now before the New Year ‘rush’ so you are aware of all the options and have time for any necessary preparations.
ST ANDREWS guide £525,000
For sage advice about whether to sell your property now or later in 2015, contact us on 0117 9466690 and speak to one of the Partners.
A well-proportioned 4 double bedroom, 2/3 reception Edwardian family house in an elevated & popular position within 300m of St Andrews Park. Convenient for local Gloucester Road shops and amenities, access to all central areas and out of town via M32. EPC: F
KINGSDOWN guide £435,000
An exceptional, 2 double bedroom first floor apartment, circa 1153 sq. ft., of superior quality throughout, set within a substantial semi-detached Victorian building on this much sought after road, with vast open-plan kitchen and dining room, high ceilings and many period features. Further benefitting from communal front and rear gardens plus shared parking. EPC: D
RENTAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY – a welllocated 5 bedroom split level apartment currently producing a rental income of £26,100 (a 6% gross yield at the guide price) located in a fantastic central location ideal for Bristol University students. A large apartment producing a generous income making it a worthy addition to an investor’s portfolio. EPC: D
Professional, Reliable, Successful
CLIFTON guide £395,000
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Andrews - Bristol - DPS.qxp_Layout 3 12/12/2014 15:52 Page 2
Clifton £575,000
Clifton £535,000
• Oakfield Place • End terrace • Current four bed with potential to be a 7 bed • Two kitchens • Roof Terrace • Potential for 2 flats • Courtyard garden • No onward chain • Energy rating - TBC
• The School House • Grade II listed Tudor-Gothic conversion • Spacious 31’ x 25’ double height living space • Parking space • Terrace • 10 year building warranty
Redland £270,000
City Centre £214,950
• Hampton Park • Lower ground floor • First come first serve parking • Modern kitchen • Spacious living room • Gas central heating • Private entrance • Energy rating - D
• Ratcliffe Court • Second floor • Private balcony • Exclusive residents gym • Open plan living space • Communal roof terrace • Lift access • Energy rating – C
Westbury-on-Trym £600,000
Stoke Bishop £425,000
• Downs Cote Avenue • Arranged over three floors • Significantly extended • Workshop • Garage • Carport • Large grounds • Off street parking • Energy rating – E
• Detached • Immaculately presented • Parking • Insulated studio/study • Contemporary design features • Many original features • Exposed brick work • Energy rating – F
Repton Hall £225,000
Henleaze £195,000
• Grade II listed building • Beautiful setting • Historic building • No onward chain • Energy rating – E
• Lift • Communal parking • Good access to local shops and amenities • On public transport route • Communal area for socialising and events • Energy rating – C
Clifton Office 0117 946 6007
Four Bedroom House
Three Bedroom House
Two Bedroom Apartment
Two Bedroom Apartment
Three Bedroom House
Two Bedroom Apartment
Two Bedroom Apartment
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Westbury-on-Trym Office 0117 962 1973
Five Bedroom House
oceanhome.co.uk
Ocean January.indd 1
17/12/2014 14:58
City Centre £379,995
Redland £345,000
Waterfront £339,950
• Horizon • Penthouse • Large balcony/roof terrace • Communal gardens • Parking option • Daytime concierge • Lift • Secure communal entrance • No onward chain • Energy rating – B
• Cambridge Park • Garden level apartment • Off street parking • Communal gardens • Dining area • Separate kitchen • Living room • Gas central heating • Energy rating - E
• The Brewhouse, Bath Street • Allocated parking space • En-suite and shower room • Impressive views • Open plan living area • Superb location • No onward chain • Energy rating - E
Clifton £189,950
Clifton Wood £144,950
Redcliffe £129,995
• Sunderland Road • Hall floor • 12’ ceilings • Open plan living room/kitchen with bay windows • Electric heating • No onward chain • Energy rating - C
• Adams Court • Secure off street parking • Communal gardens • Level access • Stylish kitchen area • Bi fold doors to sleeping area • No onward chain • Energy rating - D
• Victoria Street • Ground floor apartment • Fitted wardrobe • 12’5 living room • Separate kitchen • Integral dishwasher and oven • Electric heating • No onward chain • Energy rating - C
Westbury-on-Trym £459,950
Stoke Bishop £394,950
Westbury-on-Trym £295,000
• Prime Westbury-on-Trym • Walking distance to Westburyon-Trym and free schools • Tranquil setting • Extended to allow music room/fourth Bedroom • Energy rating – D
• Cul-de-sac • Two reception rooms • Contemporary decoration • Integral garage • Lovely rear garden • Energy rating - E
• Off Trymwood Close -• Open plan living/dining room • Conservatory • Garage • Off street parking • Well presented • Energy rating – C
Three Bedroom Apartment
Two Bedroom Apartment
One Bedroom Apartment
Two Bedroom Duplex Apartment
Studio Apartment
Three Bedroom House
One Bedroom Apartment
Four Bedroom Family House
Three Bedroom House
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Henbury £169,950
Westbury-on-Trym £125,000
Henbury £110,000
• Sheepwood Road • Arranged over three floors • Parking for four vehicles • Garden • Two reception rooms with arch • Two bedrooms plus loft room • Energy rating – E
• Parking • Kitchen • Bathroom • Reception • Double Bedroom • Juliette balcony • Gas central heating • No onward chain • Energy rating – D
• Contemporary apartment • Ideal investment property • Ensuite • Parking • Communal garden • Energy rating – C
Two Bedrooom House
Ocean January.indd 2
One Bedroom Apartment
One Bedroom Apartment
12/12/2014 15:54
Stoke Bishop
Westbury-on-Trym
Westbury-on-Trym
Semi-detached family home. Two receptions with bay and under floor heating and dining room with access to a landscaped garden. Spacious kitchen with dual aspect & stone tiled flooring & downstairs cloakroom WC. The first floor offers family bathroom with four-piece suite and 3 family-sized bedrooms. Driveway and garage.
An immaculately presented 4 bedroom semidetached family home with extended ground floor. Offering living room and sun room to rear overlooking a 17m garden, dining room with bay to front, solid wooden herringbone flooring to the majority of the ground floor, kitchen with dual aspect, family bathroom with white suite & a separate WC & 4 bedrooms. Further benefits include garage, parking & views to rear.
1930’s semi-detached family home is positioned within the popular Cherington Road. Fantastic kitchen/diner with solid wooden worktops & circular bay window to rear with glazed roof overlooking a landscaped 18m garden. Quality family bathroom with underfloor heating & en-suite shower room to bedroom 2 and 3 family sized bedrooms. Driveway and garage.
£535,000
£475,000
£400,000
Henleaze
Henleaze
Henleaze
An extended 4 bedroom semi-detached family home. Kitchen/dining/living area with dual aspect French doors to a family garden, living room to front with bay and quality marble fireplace, separate utility and reconditioned floorboards. To the first floor there are 4 familysized bedrooms, master with en-suite & modern family bathroom. Recently renovated throughout with ample parking & spacious garage.
A characterful detached dwelling conveniently positioned on The Drive close to Henleaze shops and amenities. Well balanced accommodation – Two bedrooms and two receptions, spacious bathroom with fourpiece suite, private garden with garage. The property is in good decorative order and has gas central heating and double glazing.
A delightful and spacious 1930s family home in need of modernisation throughout. The accommodation comprises of 2 reception rooms and separate kitchen, three family size bedrooms and shower room. Substantial family garden, garage and off street parking.
£530,000
£410,000
£400,000
CJ Hole Jan.indd 1
16/12/2014 15:50
Clifton t: 0117 923 8238 (sales) t: 0117 946 6588 (lettings) clifton@cjhole.co.uk
www.cjhole.com Welcome to 2015. A new year, a new start, and perhaps even a house move for some of us this year? It is typical to talk about housing market forecasts as the calendar changes but looking ahead to what may happen in 2015 is hard to predict. Last year’s stamp duty changes and the coming General Election will almost certainly have some sort of impact; many pundits foresee a slowdown in prices, others see a rise. Either way if you are considering a move, it is important to keep a cool head and choose the best team to guide you through the process; I suggest doing your research thoroughly before choosing an agent, financial advisor or
solicitor. For the rental sector on the other hand, stability and growth is more predictable, and something we will definitely see here in Bristol, not least when there is uncertainty in the sales market. A final note to announce our own ‘house move’. You will now find the Clifton team in our fabulous new offices at the top of Blackboy Hill- 203 Whiteladies Road, Clifton BS8 2XT. We would be delighted to see you! Happy New Year Howard Davis M.N.A.E.A Managing Director - CJ Hole Clifton
Stoke Bishop This spacious four bedroom end of terraced house set over three floors would make a lovely family home, the property has off street parking and garage. Located close to the local shops and road links to the Portway, M5 & M4. The Vendor has owned the property from new and has maintained it to a high standard. EPC TBC.
£475,000 TC
SS
Abbots Leigh MORE PROPERTIES LIKE THIS REQUIRED. A truly stunning contemporary property which is ready to move straight into. A fully modernised detached dorma bungalow with a warm contemporary feel, set in a picturesque rural location. Just 2.5 miles from the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge. EPC E.
£595,000
CJ Hole Clifton Jan.indd 1
12/12/2014 15:55
Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk
NEW INSTRUCTION
Knightcott Road, Abbots Leigh £695,000
A charming family home, nestled in one of the most sought-after villages of Bristol. • Large open-plan kitchen/diner and reception • master bedroom with en-suite shower room • 4 further bedrooms • study • family Bathroom • guest WC • boot room • utility room • large loft storage • double garage • approx. 0.5 acre garden. EPC Rating: D
NEW INSTRUCTION
Walter Road, Frampton Cotterell £595,000
A wonderfully presented 5 bedroom executive family home. • Open plan kitchen/reception room • formal Reception • dining room, study • master bedroom with en-suite shower room • 2nd bedroom with en-suite shower room • 3 further bedrooms • family bathroom utility room • guest WC • double garage • off street parking for up to 4 cars • garden with Hot Tub. EPC Rating: B
Hamptons Bristol
Sales. 0117 322 6362 | bristol@hamptons-int.com
Hamptons Sales Jan.indd 1
17/12/2014 15:00
Fairoaks, Cadbury Camp Lane £1,650,000
A beautifully appointed, architect designed house set in 4.4 acres. • Entrance hall • reception hall • drawing room • sitting room • kitchen/dining room • utility room • 5 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms, leisure complex including indoor heated swimming pool • games room and changing facilities • home office • detached double garage with loft room above • 4.4 acres in total including just under 1 acre of formal gardens and 3.4 acres of open woodland. EPC Rating: F
Stilemead Lane, Ubley £630,000
A unique opportunity to complete to your desired specification. • spectacular vistas • master suite • guest suite • 2 further beds • study/5th bed • family bath • double garage • extensive fully boarded roof space • spacious open plan kitchen dining room with lake views • lounge with further views • double height hall ideally suited for feature staircase. EPC Rating: B
Hamptons Sales Jan.indd 2
12/12/2014 15:56
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GOODEVE ROAD | BRISTOL
GUIDE PRICE £425,000
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ELMLEA AVENUE | BRISTOL GUIDE PRICE £1,250,000
GUIDE PRICE £450,000
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STONE | SOUTH GLOS
OIEO £700,000
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MONK ROAD | BRISTOL
EASTMEAD LANE | BRISTOL
GUIDE PRICE £435,000
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GUIDE PRICE £550,000
ST ALBANS ROAD | BRISTOL GUIDE PRICE £500,000
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GUIDE PRICE £740,000
IVYWELL ROAD | BRISTOL
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STACKPOOL ROAD | BRISTOL GUIDE PRICE £425,000
GOODEVE ROAD | BRISTOL
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SAVILLE ROAD | BRISTOL
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HARBOURSIDE | BRISTOL
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GUIDE PRICE £725,000
Fine & Country Bristol 147 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QT Tel: 0117 946 1946 Email: bristol@fineandcountry.com bristol.fineandcountry.co.uk
JULIAN ROAD | BRISTOL
GUIDE PRICE £875,000
Fine & Country January.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2014 15:57 Page 2
Five time winners of the Best International Real Estate Agency Marketing Award at the International Property Awards
Call 0117 946 1946 Fine & Country Bristol 147 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QT
fineandcountry.com
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SUCCESSFULLY SELLING PROPERTY THROUGHOUT 2014 Happy New Year from all at Leese & Nagle.
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We are an Independent Estate Agency Successfully Selling Our Clients Property Throughout North West Bristol.
STOKE BISHOP
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Leese & Nagle January.indd 1
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CLIFTONWOOD
12/12/2014 15:57
Hobsons Choice fp.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2014 15:41 Page 1
SALE
Sofa Library fp.qxp_Layout 1 12/12/2014 15:38 Page 1
25% OFF SOFAS, CABINET FURNITURE, CURTAINS & WARDROBES
3 SEATER BUTTON ARM VIROLA SOFA IN HOUSE LINEN £2152 BUT DURING JANUARY REDUCED TO £1399
35% OFF
Our Sale starts Saturday 27th December at 10am. 25% off all orders on Sofas, Cabinet Furniture including Bespoke Design, Made to Measure Curtains and Wardrobe Systems. 35% off selected Painted Cabinet Furniture. Sofa delivery time 2/3 weeks Bespoke Cabinet Furniture 2/4 weeks.
FABRICS
We are just past Clifton Down Shopping Centre 56/60, Whiteladies Rd, BS8 2PY Mon-Sat 9.30 - 5.30/Sun 12 - 5
TEL: 01173 292746