Bath Life - issue 329

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 329 / 23 DECEMBER 2016 – 6 JANUARY 2017

ISSUE 329 / 23 DECEMBER 2016 – 6 JANUARY 2017 / HOME COMFORTS

DOMESTIC

DETOX A NEW YEAR HOME REFRESH WITH MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

ARTISTIC FLAIR BATH’S CREATIVES UNITE

FRENCH CONNECTION

DINING AT CHEZ DOMINIQUE

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

BE YOUR BEST SELF IN 2017

A CUT ABOVE

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EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 329 / 23 DECEMBER 2016 – 6 JANUARY 2017

Tastemakers

48

HOME COMFORTS Top interiors trends for 2017

Zoffany’s gold Willow Song wallpaper is the perfect background to smoky velvets. Available at Woodhouse & Law, Bath

As this issue prints just before Christmas, we still have a couple of festive-filled days left to go, but as we look ahead to 2017, it’s time to regroup, reassess and embrace a fresh outlook. We start with a home interiors rejuvenation and we ask Bath designers and architects to tell us about their top trends of the moment, which include botanical, animalistic, textural and dramatic styles. Simplified, it’s about cleansing the clutter, repurposing old items and adding a little bit of ‘wow’ to your rooms (page 48).

We’ve gained a wealth of advice from some of the best local health and wellness gurus, too, who all offer differing opinions on how best to discover your best self in the New Year – from full body MOTs to simply doing yoga in our beds – (page 116).

Talking of which, wouldn’t it be great to add ‘award-winner’ to your list of new achievements for 2017? Nominations for the Bath Life Awards close on 13 January, and any local company and business can enter…good luck!

Elsewhere, we remind ourselves how creative this city is and we take a wander to the 44AD gallery to meet 12 of its studio artists who are making Bath that little bit brighter and more interesting with their individual talents (page 92).

Add into the mix shopping for the most gorgeous homeware items (page 58); dining at Frenchthemed hotspot Chez Dominique (page 102); and welcoming our brand new columnist, designer Philippa May (page 35) and we’d like to think there’s enough to suit everyone’s tastes…

Enjoy!

Lisa Evans, Editor Follow us on Twitter: @BathLifeMag Follow us on Instagram:@bathlifemag

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FEATURES / ISSUE 329 / 23 DECEMBER 2016 – 6 JANUARY 2017

116

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Plan for a new year and a new you with our expert guide on how to feel physically and spiritually fitter

58

Editor’s choice From artwork to wine glasses, our pick of the little décor touches that can bring big changes

REGULARS / ISSUE 329 / 23 DECEMBER 2016 – 6 JANUARY 2017 M E E T T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Nic Bottomley, Jennifer Jennings Wright, Emma Bond, Philippa May and David Flatman Senior advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Alana Medforth alana.medforth@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS 83 Arts intro A look at local painter Pete ‘the Street’ Brown’s exhibition

84 What’s on Art, gigs, shows and fun – it’s time to update the events diary

92 Arts feature Meeting up with the talent of Bath’s 44AD gallery

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Christina West christina.west@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Charlie Pinder charlie.pinder@mediaclash.co.uk

97 Books Mr B’s Nic Bottomley in praise of animal magic in children’s books

FOOD

102

102 Restaurant Dining the fine French way at Chez Dominique

111 Food & drink news A new Nepalese café, Fire & Brew in Oldfield Park opens and top chefs visit Bath College

LIFEST YLE

DEPARTMENTS

136 Gardening

PROPERT Y

Emma Bond on how to make the most of your winter garden

156 Property showcase

BUSINESS

Cold Ashton Manor is a charming country house with serious history

141 Business insider

17 20 31 35 170

Spotlight Society A man’s world A woman’s world Bath Lives

News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

150 Professional services

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury.

We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

On the cover A Matthew Williamson Minelli sofa, available at Rossiters of Bath. Image provided by Duresta. See the full feature on page 48

Money’s on our minds when we meet with Bath-based accountants

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Homes under the jungle

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

Singer Gabrielle is a former Bath College student

ENTERTAINMENT

HE’S A CELEBRITY Bath residents have known for a while what a star TV presenter Martin Roberts is. From his charity work to his tireless fundraising, the Homes Under The Hammer presenter is as almost much a part of the Bath community as our other local legend Jane Austen.

Since his, at times poignant, often hilarious, occasional tree-hugging and will-always-be-memorable appearance on the ITV1 show I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, in which he finished sixth, Martin is very much in demand to both talk about his time in the jungle and discuss new projects. On exiting the Australian outback, Martin commented, “It surpassed my expectations – the people, the experience, how it affects you in ways you’d never imagine.”

He spent his jungle time alongside fellow West Country personalities, Bristol-based Carol Vorderman and comedian Joel Dommett, who grew up in Rockhampton, near Thornbury.

For more: www.itv.com

T050

MUSIC

SING IT BACK Former Bath College pupil Gabrielle Aplin is returning to her home city to perform at Komedia on 15 February, 2017.

Gabrielle first gained an online following by posting acoustic covers of songs on YouTube and, just six months after leaving college, shot to fame singing Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s hit The Power of Love for the 2012 John Lewis advert, which went

on to be a number one.

“I’ll be playing some old songs and some new songs,” reveals Gabrielle, whose new EP Miss You was released on 16 December. “There’s going to be some really intimate moments and also some full band moments too. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

For more: www.gabrielleaplin.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT Keep your motor running

MOTOR RACING

THE DRIVE TO SUCCEED The Isle of Man TT Race, which began in 1907, is one of the most prestigious motorcycle races in the world and is seen as the ultimate test for competitors. And our region boasts one of its biggest stars Dan Cooper, who is part of the Bath-based Turner Racing team.

Dan has ended his 2016 international road racing season on a high, not only winning his class at the Ulster Grand Prix, securing eight victories at the Castle Combe Circuit Grand National Event, but also bagging 10th place in the 50th Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix. “We had a successful 2016 season with upwards

Mark the coach is top of his game

of 14 race wins,” explains Stroud-based Dan. “We’re now in for an incredible 2017 with the new signing of the legendary Michael Dunlop who will compete in the Isle of Man Classic TT alongside me in August for Turner Racing.”

For more: Twitter @turnertzracing

CARNIVAL

PHOTO BY WAYNE FARRELL

FLOAT ON

We love the carnival vibe

Let’s get ready to samba!

The Bath Carnival has been confirmed for a return in summer 2017 and promises to be bolder, louder and bigger than ever. The free outdoor event, which takes over the streets of Bath with a large carnival procession, will also see the return of the party – great news considering the 2016 carnival nearly didn’t happen.

Stuart Matson, the carnival organiser explains, “After being forced to scale down this year’s project, we very nearly called it a day. Yet it was still a huge success – it was amazing to witness

hundreds of people taking to the streets to join in the parade and then even more joining the party as spectators.

“It’s down to the enthusiasm of our team, some welcome guidance from industry professionals and a lot of supportive messages from the community that Bath will have a carnival next summer,” continues Stuart. “We’re planning a new large scale collaborative performance in which a number of drumming groups, dance acts and musicians will perform a one-off free show for the public.”

For more: www.bathcarnival.co.uk

FUNDRAISING

AT HIS PEAK University of Bath head swimming coach Mark Skimming scaled new heights to raise £7,500 for Bristol Children’s Hospital by trekking 3,000m to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.

Mark took on the 12-day challenge to thank the doctors and nurses that saved the life of his young son. Now an active three-year-old, Albert was born 13 weeks early and spent his first three months in intensive care after been diagnosed with chronic lung disease.

“We camped the whole time and we had real extremes of weather – snow, torrential rain, and sun so strong, I managed to burn my head to the point it peeled – but I didn’t get altitude sickness and was fit enough to enjoy it all and appreciate what we were doing,” says Mark.

“I haven’t got the words to adequately describe the trek.

I wouldn’t say it was spiritual, but it was something I would happily go and do again, and happily go further.

I would say to anyone, go and do it.”

For more: www.justgiving.com/Mark-Skimming

Adventures in party-going

Simon Jefferies and Sarah Baker

SCENE AC ROS S B AT H , O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

Esther Thompson and Liz Smyth

TOP OF THE POPS A pop-up store can be a great way to test the retail market as Lola Straw of Lola Swift found out when she set up shop on Milsom Street recently. Her opening night on 10 November was a huge success with guests who, along with the chance to browse and shop, enjoyed mini mince pies and raspberry champagne cocktails.

Annie Wallis, Amanda Wood, Snjolaug Swift and Mike Swift

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Naomi Maggs and Jessie Hobbs

Kari Young, Ottilie Young, Clara Straw, Ella Richmond and Rosie Richmond

Sarah Shore, Jamie Ormshaw and Leah Moore

20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Elaine Warne, Helen Perrett, Fiona Hender and Beatrice Goddard

your local Villeroy & Boch stockists 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon BA15 1JS | 01225 309110 www.bathroomsatno5.co.uk

SOCIETY

CAUGHT ON FILM

Holly Tarquini, Col Needham, Úna Ní Dhonghaíle and Alison Sterling

The Assembly Rooms was the setting for the The Annual IMDb Awards hosted by Bath Film Festival on 9 November. Out of a record 192 short film submissions, five entries were shortlisted, with the winner announced as Riley Madincea’s Help!

I’m Trapped In A Movie, chosen by the judges Col Needham. Alison Sterling, and Úna Ní Dhonghaíle.

Photos by Anna Barclay www.annaweddingphotos.com

Katharine Doheny-Adams, Samuel Thomas, Abby Forman and Ryan Mellish William Graves and William Thomas Paul Crossley and Maggie Crossley

Poppy Baines and Tilda Macphail

Dom Moorhouse, Claudia Moorhouse, Rosie Bennett, Maddy Bennett, Amy Bennett, Joe Bennett and Karen Needham Jackie Madincea, Tríona O’Neill, Riley Madincea and Steve Madincea 22 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

POOL PART Y

David Dunlop, Margaret Hayes, Derek Hayes and Ian Taylor

Abbey Hotel’s The Igloo Bar hosted The Cleveland Pools Trust cocktail party on 17 November. The event was to update invited guests on the progress of the reopening of the open air Cleveland Pools in Bathwick. Patron Sharron Davies MBE gave an inspirational speech, and the Trust received two significant pledges on the night.

Photos by Derryn Vranch www.derrynvranch.com

Ina Harris, Jonathan Walker and Peter Knight

Louis Hodgkin and Martin Tracy

Fred Parkinson and Pam Parkinson Brenda Beeton, David Beeton and Julia Marshman

Katie Horne, Josephine Vercoe and Kim De Morgon Kim De Morgan, Sharron Davies and Paul Simons

Sally Helvey and Suzy Granger

24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

REGARDS TO BROAD STREET

Alice Clubb, Carys James Imogen Tozer and Ella Guntan

It was an evening of live music, canapés, prize draws, cooking demos, and Father Christmas at Rossiters of Bath on 17 November. The event, attended by 400 people, was an open evening to celebrate the Broad Street store’s 55th year in Bath and was in support of The RUH’s Forever Friends Appeal.

Photos by Anthony Prothero www.anthonyprothero.co.uk

Lydia Collins

Helen Lawrence Kim Paterson, John Gerrish and Stephanie Stewart Kate Somerset How, Anne-Marie James and Simon Holmes

Rachael King Helena Scott-Hardy and Pauline Scott 26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

BOOK CLUB YouTube sensation Lucy Sutcliffe and author Krystal Sutherland were recently in conversation with author Katherine Webber at Bath Waterstones to promote Lucy’s debut memoir about coming out and love, Girl Hearts Girl, and Krystal’s novel Our Chemical Hearts, which deals with the heartbreak of first love.

David Cann and Sophie Spiers

Alysha McIntosh and Annie Thackray

Pictures by Philip Field www.philipfield.com

Lucy Sutcliffe, Katherine Webber and Krystal Sutherland

BIG DAY

Lucy Bray and Jodie Grimmitt

Judy Rideout and Clive Stevens

Independent designer bridal shop Ellie Rose opened its doors for business with a celebratory launch from its St Margaret’s Building home on 19 November. Hosted by owners, chief bridal consultant Ellie and business partner Ollie, guests enjoyed nibbles and drank a toast to the business’s future.

Photos by Philip Field www.philipfield.com Ellie Rose Witton and Ollie Butler

Ian Witton and Suzanne Stevens

28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

David Stevens and Wendy Stevens

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A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

NOSY NEIGHBOURS Flats wonders when Mrs Hateful of Bath will complain about the creation of the city’s largest hotel

I

remember receiving a letter from an anonymous, disgruntled neighbour a few years ago that outlined in ferocious detail the danger I was posing to general public safety. There were two things I was doing that were putting folk at risk: one was owning an illegal dog that seemed, apparently, intent on feasting on some local children, and the second was my holly bush. Said bush, it has to be pointed out, had come over a touch unruly, and it needed clipping back a peg or two.

However, ‘give the bush a trim, old chap’ didn’t seem to be an option, and instead she (I found out it was a she by accident) called the fuzz, and they arrived with awkward smiles on their faces. By then, of course, I’d gladly trimmed the offending bush – it took roughly three minutes – and passers by were no longer forced to step onto the (quiet, suburban) road to circumnavigate it. The police had a nice cup of tea, apologised profusely, kissed the vicious dog – with whom they fell in love – and left.

A while later, we decided that the ramshackle lean-to to the side of our house ought to be tidied up and made proper. And, as sure as rain is rain, she struck again. Only this time she brought her (anonymous) squad with her. To explain, we wanted to replace a tiny, rotten, filthy, corrugated plastic lean-to with Bath stone and a nice, painted wooden door. That was all, and I offer no spin. But the letters still came. In the end it was built, but my goodness these people made it hard, and I just don’t know why.

This is why, as I drive through town, tough-looking-but-streetlegal dog by my side, I feel both astonished and heartened to see such a significant building project as the Apex hotel ploughing on at a rate of knots that will, I feel confident, have driven Mrs Hateful of Weston, Bath, to frenzied distraction by now.

I mention Apex as, for those among you whose minds like to paint vivid pictures as you read, I am typing these very words from my king size bed in an Apex hotel in London. I’m in London a lot, and I don’t stay anywhere else. When I arrived late last night to check in, they had my room key ready to save time and asked if I’d like a club sandwich sending to the room immediately. Yes, they know me well by now.

In this hotel, people of Bath, you are not only getting a load of extra rooms to sleep in should the kitchen flood, you’re getting a hotel run by people who know what it means to treat people well. Most of my stays in London are covered by expenses, so I could choose to stay anywhere I like, but I keep coming back here because the coffee’s good, the full English is good, and the general vibe is precisely what I want.

This great big hotel popping up in town is a very good thing. It’s mainly a good thing because they just do hotels so well, but also because that grumpy old lady will always know it’s there. I call that a win for the good guys.

YOU’RE GETTING A HOTEL RUN BY PEOPLE WHO KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO TREAT PEOPLE WELL

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on Twitter @davidflatman

A WOMAN’S WORLD

PHILIPPA MAY

LOCAL CHEER

BATH’S AMAZING INDEPENDENT ARTISAN MARKETS ARE A TESTAMENT TO THE POPULARITY OF BUYING LOCAL

Nothing beats the feeling of shopping local, reckons Philippa, so that’s a good enough reason to make a New Year’s resolution to do it a whole lot more…

P

arty season is such a fun time of year. If there’s one thing you need to know about me straight away, it’s that I love a good celebration (and any excuse for a cheese board).

My friends know too well that they need to book out an entire week for my birthday because I like to do as much as possible to drag it out as long as people will let me. I do the same at Christmas and New Year. In October I begin my search for new decorations, much to my partner’s despair – he would be happy to deck the halls with tin foil – I want to go all out though. Every year, however, my hunt for the perfect glitter-free trimmings is a real challenge.

Last Christmas, after finishing a big renovation project, we succumbed to the cheap tree, what a mistake. With a star topper made out of cardboard, and borrowed decorations, it left a LOT to be desired. This is also before even attempting to drag the pest out of the brand new house when it’s a needle dropper – possibly the worst way to get over Christmas. Not one to be fooled twice, this Christmas it’s all about the beautiful Norman Fir and carefully curated decorations.

To get ahead this time, I had the pleasure of starting my hunt for the finest festive décor with a trip to Milsom Street’s Brissi, as they celebrated their second birthday. If you’re looking for Mrs Claus’s grotto, this is it. You won’t see any garish green and red tired clichés in here, this is Christmas done right. A palette after my own heart, the majority of this wonderfully styled Georgian townhouse is neutral in grey and white hues. With The Night Before Christmas

elegantly trailing along the walls from ground to third floor, this homely store pulled me right into its Christmas story and that is exactly what I was looking for.

At this time of year it’s wonderful to see smaller companies and brands taking over our city. For too long we have depended on faceless campaigns from the big dogs. They cling to exhausted marketing promotions that desperately attempt to drag you into buying a one-present-fits-all product when sometimes what you really crave is a lovely back story. But we’re getting smarter, with Bath residents in particular starting to support the dachshunds – and by this I mean bigger is no longer better.

There’s a great trend growing and it’s for products that come from a business with a genuine history. A story that makes you want to buy not just from the shop but from the actual makers’ hands, and Bath’s amazing independent artisan markets are a testament to the popularity of buying local. So my New Year’s resolution is a simple one – to buy more from independents. There are so many amazing brands rising from Bath, and whether you’re buying from a close friendship like Brissi, or a true artisan like Article, the satisfaction and emotion you get from supporting the underdog and forging a relationship with essentially a new local friend is the best cheer you can spread.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and brand creative manager for accessories label Abbott Lyon. She’s also the partner of Bath Rugby’s captain Guy Mercer, Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_

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BATH | BRISTOL

Trendsetters From botanical and animalistic, to textural and dramatic, these are the home interior looks which are taking over 2017

By L I SA E VA NS

W Streams of tetrahedrons appear in this celestial-style ‘Titanides’ wallpaper from Gallery Beautiful in Bradford on Avon

Photo by Iain Kemp

hen the Christmas sparkle and joy has been packed away for another year and the reality of January sets in, it’s the perfect time to regroup and take stock. Storming the sales and starting to revamp with wild abandon isn’t the way to go, instead, take inspiration from the interiors experts, architects and homeware designers from in and around Bath…

NEW YEAR INTERIORS

This image: Chamonix faux fur cushions and throws from Brissi on Milsom Street, Bath, add warmth and texture to a room; below: find clean lines and neutral shades at Ripples on London Road, Bath

Similarly, Kayleigh Murphy, showroom manager at Boniti in Chippenham, advises dashes of colour for a quick and easy update. “For example, decorative tiles used as a splashback for your cooker can easily create a feature in your kitchen,” she says. “Or, you could even put the decorative tiles on the floor and create something completely breath-taking.”

Emily Giles, a designer at SRA Architects on Charlotte Street, Bath, says it doesn’t have to be ‘out with the old and in with the new’, but more of a recognition and refresh of what you currently have. “We encourage our clients to identify the assets they currently have and how they can be creatively reimagined to fulfil their current vision,” she says.

A word of warning from Arianna Brissi, creative director of Brissi on Milsom Street, Bath, “Don’t risk it all,” she says. “We can all dare a little too much, the budget is quickly out of the window and it’s too late to rebuild the wall we knocked down. Lots of small changes are better than one big risky one if we are unsure. Begin by just polishing up the base and layer it with a new feel.

Take up an old carpet, paint the floors and get a comforting rug, for example. Tongue and groove the bathroom walls, paint them a new soft colour, and get some fluffy towels to match the fabulous new scheme.” w

WHY NOW?

Every January, the ‘New Year, new start’ mantras hit us with force, so it may seem obvious to refresh the home at this time too, but Sonya Rothwell, alchemist-in-chief at Bradford on Avon’s Gallery Beautiful says that revamping in January won’t just make your rooms look better, but it’ll help give the homeowner a fresh perspective too.

“Cleansing our homes of clutter is a great way to cleanse ourselves,” she says. “Shedding surplus belongings helps us feel lighter and brighter, so put all the things you rarely use into a box. If you haven’t opened it by January 2018, give it away.”

When it comes to making the biggest change of all, selling your home, spring is the best season, according to Mitchell Thomas, commercial director at Batheaston-based Hawker Joinery.

“It’s at this time the housing market is at its most active, so January to March is your window of opportunity to get everything in order to maximise your sales price.”

UPDATE OR OVERHAUL?

“Big resolutions often get broken in January, so we’re great advocates of thinking small,” says John Law, director at Woodhouse & Law, an interior and garden design partnership on Bathwick Hill. “While new cushions in colour-pop fabrics and prints are an obvious choice for an instant refresh, lighting is a super simple way to inject warmth and ambience. Our range of lighting from Ferm Living allows you to mix and match the different elements to create contemporary looks in every room.”

BIG RESOLUTIONS OFTEN GET BROKEN IN JANUARY, SO WE’RE GREAT ADVOCATES OF THINKING

SMALL

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

NEW YEAR INTERIORS When it comes to more dramatic changes, kitchen extensions are going to be what everyone is talking about this year, reckons Matt Prall, managing director at Frome-based bespoke kitchen design business Papilio. “As the economic confusion continues, we believe home owners will be looking to add large improvements to their residence rather than going through the hassle of moving” he says. “The kitchen is the hub of the home and will therefore see the most action.”

Julia Greenland, design and showroom manager of Frome-based kitchen company Shaker & May adds, “If you want to go further, why not opt for a total redesign? Perhaps you could knock through into an adjacent dining room or have an extension built to give you a large open-plan kitchen-diner that’s ideal for modern family living.”

NATURE AND ANIMALS

Keep your eyes peeled for minimalistic natureinspired pieces in January, animal illustrations being at the forefront, including representations of owls, flamingos and other birds. Nicky Boulton and Sue Neville’s Bath business, Temple & Ivy, is a luxury lighting brand specialising in a striking range of African bird-leg lamps. Combining traditional sculpting with the flamboyance of the natural world, these made-to-order designs are statement pieces for creating unique interiors.

“The rising trend for bringing the outside in inspires us,” says Nicky. “We’re driven mainly by wildlife programmes, modern materials and oldfashioned techniques.”

According to interior stylist Catriona Archer who runs her eponymous business in Bath, colours found in nature will be key for 2017.

“Emerald greens and confident blues will burst through,” she says. “These will be softened with pale mint, plaster pinks, pewter and antique glass or accented with botanical prints.”

“There’ll be a fresh take on fir green, splashes

Interior designer Catriona Archer suggests South Bank paint

by Fired Earth to complement this season’s botanical trend

THE RISING TREND FOR BRINGING THE

OUTSIDE

IN INSPIRES US. WE’RE

DRIVEN BY WILDLIFE PROGRAMMES, MODERN MATERIALS AND OLDFASHIONED TECHNIQUES

With its Jacana feet, The Shella lamp from Bath’s Temple & Ivy brings a touch of Africa to the home 50 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

of pale blue and botanicals in design,” agrees Martha Piotrowska, owner of AtNo67 Concept Store in Corsham. “We’ll also see an abundance of terracotta, hexagonal shapes, brass, and world maps for walls.”

Even workspace styles are becoming more environmental, as SRA’s Emily Giles explains, “Whether they be within the commercial or home environment, office trends are veering towards bringing the outside in, with the introduction of green walls [walls partially or completely covered with greenery], textured materials, and polished chrome. Our focus is on comfortable, inspirational, flexible workspaces which are welcoming and conducive to wellbeing.”

INDUSTRIALISED METALLICS

Industrial styling is big news for the new year, especially in bathrooms, according to Kim Marcer, who co-owns Ripples on London Road, Bath. “For those of us that are magpies, metallics continue to reign in 2017; gold finishes are in huge demand and it’s not just seasonal,” she says.

“Invest in some beautiful metallic pieces for your bathroom and you can trust they will never go out of fashion. We have a beautiful new collection at Ripples called Coco which our customers are going crazy for, think monochrome colours, metal legs and crisp white basins.”

Coppers and rose golds were the hottest metals for 2016, but there’s now a move towards brass – especially the antiqued variety – reckons Papilio’s Matt Prall. “Reflective surfaces create a lighter room and a sense of opulence,” he says.

Kim Paterson, head of interiors at Rossiters of Bath on Broad Street, adds, “When mixed with deep blues, metallic tones will lift the look and give it warmth. A great example is the signature w

NEW YEAR INTERIORS fabric of our Ferdinand chair, and Jane Churchill’s embroidered, metallic-toned fabrics also make eye-catching accessories, too.”

TACTILE AND TEXTURAL

Just changing the fabric on a chair or an ottoman to add contrast and texture will give a new ‘feel’ to your room, according to Melanie Eyles, co-owner of The Curtain Exchange on Widcombe Parade, Bath. “Think beautiful armchairs covered in natural linen but softened with velvet cushions,” she says. “New trends are all about combining texture with colour to create a space that is tactile and inviting. When creating your perfect space, spend enough time working out how you want your finished room or house to look. Don’t rush out and buy every item that you love and hope that they will all fit in somehow. We lend out fabrics and curtains to try at home, and sometimes this is enough to give people the confidence to go for a look that they may have been too cautious to have considered before.”

“Texture will be much more apparent in 2017,” agrees Boniti’s Kayleigh Murphy. “So products like terracotta and aged flagstones should see an increase in popularity.”

LIVED-IN

Home is where the heart is, as they say, and there’s no need to follow trends; in fact, we should never be a slave to styles, according to Gallery Beautiful’s Sonya Rothwell. “A home should reflect one’s unique, personal taste,” she says. “When someone steps into our home for the first time it tells them a lot about us. I love to see eclectic interiors built up of memories – little stories everywhere you look.”

Above: mixing metallic and pastel accessories, such as these House Doctor vases from AtNo67 Concept Store in Corsham, is an affordable way to bring a fresh energy to the home; below: Zoffany’s Acantha wallpaper is the epitome of luxury and features a marbling effect within the damask pattern, available at Woodhouse & Law, Bath

“Don’t get rid of things you love just because they don’t go with a new scheme,” agrees Rossiters of Bath’s Kim Paterson. “Homes should reflect your history as well as your taste.”

When updating a space, interior expert Catriona Archer aims to repurpose existing items to make the most of what the client has. “On a recent project, a client had a lampstand that she was thinking of throwing away,” she says. “Instead, we gave it a new lease of life by painting it vibrant emerald green. It became the showstopper piece.”

Hawker Joinery’s Mitchell Thomas says that demand for space-saving cabinetry and visible displays have increased recently, and this is fuelled by a growing interest in collecting wellbound books, alongside the desire to display them. “The need is quite often only solved through bespoke joinery as people seek to fill the various nooks and crannies of their home in this manner,” he says.

BOLD AND PLAYFUL

Jamie Graham, managing director of Graham & Green on Walcot Street, Bath, says 2017 is all about colour. “Whether it’s metallic gold mixed with smooth white marble, mustard yellow velvets or vibrant pink accessories, introducing colour is the perfect way to breathe new life into your home in the new year,” he says.

Perhaps the most prominent trend coming forward right now, as far as Woodhouse & Law’s director is concerned, is the wallpaper renaissance. “Everyone seems a bit bored of plain walls and people want more depth, texture and pattern,” says John Law. “People are wallpapering whole rooms in everything from playful patterns to textural finishes.”

Strong grey is the new white as far as Shaker & May’s Julia Greenland is concerned, “Using a dark charcoal, you can create a striking look for the kitchen. The Shaker style kitchen looks elegant, with its simple clean lines and architectural structures; it’s truly timeless.”

52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

NEW YEAR INTERIORS

WHETHER IT’S MUSTARD YELLOW VELVETS OR VIBRANT PINK

ACCESSORIES, INTRODUCING COLOUR IS THE PERFECT WAY TO BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR HOME

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

LOVE SHUTTERS

% 5 1 FF O

LOVE YOUR HOME. LOVE OUR SHUTTERS. Transform your home with our finest S:CRAFT made-to-measure interior shutters and with the *Love Shutters Sale you get a blissful 15% off, so what are you waiting for?

Get a no-obligation quote today with 15% OFF when you order by Valentine’s day 2017. t. 01225 469 559 e. info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk w. www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk or visit our showroom - 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

We are an accredited S:CRAFT Master Partner providing industry leading levels of service, from initial consultation to ensure the best aesthetic solution to a hassle free installation. *Orders must be placed by 14th February 2017, terms & conditions apply.

1

2

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IN WITH THE NEW SOMETIMES JUST LITTLE TOUCH HERE AND THERE CAN TRANSFORM THE LOOK OF A ROOM, SO WE’VE SEARCHED BATH’S INTERIOR SHOPS FOR FRESH, NEW YEAR INSPIRATION…

5

4

1. COMFY COSY

2. MONOCHROME MASTERY

3. LIGHT IT UP

4. SKILFUL STRUCTURE

5. BALANCING ACT

Kate Bond cushion, £70 Bath-based Kate Bond uses hand-crafted techniques in the creation of her surface patterns which are transferred onto high-quality fabric cushions From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw. co.uk

Calfway Farm artwork, £250 Inspired by the Grosvenor School printmakers from the 1930s, this linocut print from Steven Hubbard keeps the magic of winter alive From David Simon Contemporary, 3-4 Bartlett Street, Bath; www. davidsimoncontemporary. com

Basil and Neroli candle, £42 With a top note of basil, and a white musk neroli base, this new scent is fresh, sophisticated and stunning in its simplicity From Jo Malone, 6-7 Old Bond Street, Bath; www.jomalone.co.uk

Metal and concrete chair, £430 Chair One of Konstantin Grcic has an audacious design based on geometric lines and industrial materials From HAY, 36 – 37 Milsom Street, Bath; www.hayminimarket.com

Rolling wine glasses, £22.95 for a pair Uberstar aims to create products that make life easier.

Use the pointed base of these stemless wine glasses to swirl your glass on a flat surface and oxygenate your tipple From Quadri, 6 Milsom Place, Milsom Street, Bath; www.quadri.co.uk

58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ED’S CHOICE

6

SHOPPING

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6. ART ATTACK

7. PITCHER PERFECT

8. SMALL PRINT

9. METALLIC MOMENT

10. HAPPY HYGGE

Krinks cabinet, £1,250 This stunningly contemporary, bespoke objet d’art, is a one-off, graffiti-look statement piece hand-painted by artist Sonya Rothwell From Gallery Beautiful, The Courts, The Walk, Holt, Bradford on Avon; www.gallerybeautiful.com

Enamel Jugs, £25 each Mebyl is a new shop which specialises in salvaged and reclaimed items. We love these colour-pop vintage country-look jugs which have the characteristic marks of age and wear From Mebyl, 4 Cleveland Terrace, Bath

Bespoke vessels, from £80 Made by local ceramicist Hans Borgonjon, these unusual pots are made from terracotta, porcelain and gold leaf From Verve, 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

Sola copper trays, set of two, £99 Impress your guests with decadent trays from House Doctor, which are beautifully crafted from aluminium and coated with copper From At No67 Concept Store, 6-7 Prospect, Kingsdown, Corsham; www.atnumber67.co.uk

The Little Book of Hygge, £9.99 From this coffee-table book, discover the magic ingredient that apparently makes Danes so happy From Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath, The Paragon, 7 Bladud Buildings, Bath; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 59 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 69

FREE ESTIMATES • FULL INSTALLATION AND CAD DESIGN SERVICE • 1,400 SQFT SHOWROOM WITH FULL DISPLAYS Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock BA3 2AD Tel: 01761 419114 Email: enquiries@firenza.co.uk Web: www.firenzaltd.co.uk Opening hours: Mon 12pm - 5pm Tues - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 3pm

20% off Offer ends 4th January 2017 Applies to all items displayed on our website

Modern Furniture.

Designed over decades.

Find out more at www.foresttohome.com william@foresttohome.com

Bath’s leading marble & Granite co. for over 30 years Free no obligation site survey for quotation purposes

• Sinks and taps now available at competitive prices • Kitchen worktops • Bathrooms • Fireplaces • Flooring • Natural stone tiles & memorials • Bespoke templating and fitting service Office and Showroom open 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 9am - 1pm Tel: 01761 412934 • Fax: 01761 417068 • hobbsmarblegranite@btinternet.com Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Bath, BA3 2AA • www.hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk

a d v e r tising feat u r e I N T E R I O R S

All the right ingredients for the perfect kitchen From the smallest idea to the grand finished project, STEPHEN GRAVER LTD has the experience, the imagination, the passion and the complete team to make it happen

S

et in the picturesque heart of rural Wiltshire, Stephen Graver Ltd specialise in creating bespoke projects for each individual client. From original kitchens and handmade bathrooms to commissioned pieces of furniture, they can offer a solution for everything.

Also offering a building renovation service – sometimes creating a perfect room requires an alteration of an existing space - they personally visit every client for an initial consultation.

Stephen Graver is unlike any other kitchen, bathroom or furniture design company. You are involved in the process at every step of the way and they make sure that they not only

“providing you with your dream project, delivered to perfection”

meet, but far exceed your expectations.

The design is the starting point and the foundation from which the project grows: taking time and care over every project, ensuring that the functional requirements are met, while always looking for features to make every project personal and unique.

At Stephen Graver, they like to think that the end result is beautiful to look at, original and totally designed around your needs. But, unlike other companies, they feel that what separates them and makes them stand out is the journey the client goes on to reach that end result.

The experience you get with Stephen Graver is one you will not have enjoyed anywhere else. Not only will they spend time advising on the most appropriate designs and appliances, you will be able to see how your design progresses by visiting their onsite workshop.

Everything is designed and manufactured at the site in Steeple Ashton, and whilst the craftsmen operate from the workshops you can arrange a time to come and see your project taking shape.

The studio, open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm, is the perfect way to see examples of their work. This space details the exquisite level of finish you can expect and even showcases appliances that could be installed in your home.

This is not purely a job for Stephen and his team: they put their heart and soul into providing you with your dream project, delivered to perfection.

To find out more about the Stephen Graver experience, visit www.stephengraver.com.

Elmsgate, Edington Road, Steeple Ashton, Wiltshire BA14 6HP 01380 871746; sales@stephengraver.com www.stephengraver.com

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P R erfect

ooms

For made to measure beautiful curtains, pelmets, roman blinds, cushions, bedspreads, valances and upholstery.

Pop in and take a look at our showroom Coffee shop now open Come and browse our new range of fabrics, wallpapers and carpets whilst you enjoy a tea or coffee and a mince pie or Christmas shortbread.

Mon – Fri 9.00am – 5.00pm | Sat 10am – 4pm Sun - Closed Perfect Rooms, Silver Street Showroom, Silver Street, Gastard, Wiltshire, SN13 9PY Plenty of parking for our customers

www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 perfectrooms@btconnect.com

a d ve r tisin g feat u r e i n t e r i o r s

design for life See how Homemaker Bath’s pro kitchen designer Kelly-Marie Hicks created this coastal kitchen...

K

elly-Marie Hicks, head kitchen designer at Homemaker Bath, has inspired so many clients over the last 10 years.

One of her latest projects is this open-plan kitchen in the Cornish holiday home (Trewhella) of a Bath customer: the brief was to come up with a modern design that ties in with the seaside environment.

Like many beautiful properties, Trewhella’s kitchen is the centrepiece of the house. The

open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas flow effortlessly into one another. A spacious kitchen island provides the idyllic social setup, lined with bar stools and overlooking an airy seating area next to the wood fire. This is all surrounded by views of the wraparound gardens and meadow. Numerous Velfac doors slide open to welcome the outside in, and a Sonos wireless music system sets the soundtrack. Appliances include double Neff ovens, Neff induction hob, American-style fridge-freezer, dishwasher, and instant-boil Quooker tap for no-fuss, no-wait tea rounds!

This was particularly important to the client, who wanted a coffee bar area almost like a kitchen with in a kitchen...

In terms of the colour scheme, the client asked for ice white quartz work tops offset by grey and bursts of purple. Plush furnishings, luxurious fabrics and vibrant artwork are set against cool grey slate flooring and a flood of natural light from the many floor-toceiling windows and patio doors, which allow summer breezes to drif through on balmy days. Meanwhile, while the log fire warms the cosy space during the winter.

To see more of this kitchen, visit perfectstays.co.uk/property/trewhella

HOMEMAKER, 8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath BA2 4HJ; 01225 481881; homemakerdesign@btconnect.com

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T h e C u r ta i n E x c h a n g e For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT | Tel: 01225 422078 | Email: curtainexchange@live.co.uk www.curtainexchangebath.co.uk

craftsmanship means F OCU S ING ON F INE DETAIL S AND TA K ING THE TI M E TO M A K E EVER Y J OB OUT S TANDING

See Check a Trader and Google Review f o r 5  r at i n g s Opening times M o n d ay – F r i d ay 8.00am – 5.00pm S at u r d ay 9.00am – 12.30pm

O n ly 1 0 minutes from B at h

|

Marble Supreme T: 0117 956 3030

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U n i t 8 B r i d g e Roa d

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K i n g s w o o d | B r i s to l | B S 1 5 4 F W | w w w. m a r b l e s u p r e m e . c o m

e: info@marblesupreme.com

10 York Street, Bath BA1 1NH 01225 447920 leatherchairs.co.uk

Handcrafted fine kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms We offer a completely bespoke service that includes design and fitting, along with a full range of standard products. Our local team of tradesmen cover all aspects of plumbing, electrical, plastering and decorating services.

Visit our showroom located in the centre of Devizes. Open every weekday 9.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm.

11/12 Northgate Street Devizes Wiltshire SN10 1JL Tel: 01380 721772 www.devizesfinekitchens.com

Devizes fine kitchens

Kingfisher Blinds

We supply and fit roller blinds, vertical or venetian blinds to suit any room We offer a personal, friendly service from first contact through to the installation of your chosen blinds.

All enquiries welcome.

Kingfisher Blinds, Radstock, Somerset BA3 3ED 01761 434665 07801 059357

www.kingfisher-blinds.com

Providing natural stone and ceramic tiles to create beautiful ďŹ nishes to your home

t 01225 707447 m 07971 678900 email info@tnstg.co.uk Melksham | Wiltshire | SN12 6DG www.limestoneooringbath.co.uk

Westside Design Bespoke Kitchen Makers Since 1983 Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5EQ info@westsidedesign.co.uk

Enlighten of Bath Beautiful Designer Lighting

Huge range of contemporary and traditional lights including chandeliers, pendants, wall and floor lights Outdoor and bathroom lighting

Festive cheer to one and all Looking for ward to inspiring you in 2017!

Suppliers of RV Astley Andrew Martin Heathfield Elstead Limehouse Vaughan Porto Romano Feiss Kichler Stiffel Flambeau Hinkley Quoizel Norlys Flos Trio and many more...

Please visit our website for suppliers ranges and view our favourites

www.enlightenofbath.co.uk "

20% off all orders

ver veliving.uk 07785 332536 | 07712 467347 15 Walcot Buildings. London Rd. BA1 6AD Free parking in Weymouth Street furniture – styling – artworks – classes

Only on presentation of this voucher Valid until 31st January 2017 78 Walcot Street Bath BA1 5BD Tel 01225 424424

SOVEREIGN DAMP PROOFING & CONSTRUCTION LTD We offer a comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing, basement waterproofing, timber treatment and specialist replastering.

HESTIA SO F T F U RN I S H INGS

Curtains & Poles Bespoke Blinds Soft Furnishings Fabrics Upholstery

01225 782070 • www.hestia-curtains.co.uk The Old Canteen, The Midlands, Holt, BA14 6RJ

Tel: 01249 716161 | Tel: 01225 811222 1 Ingoldmells Court, Edinburgh Way, Corsham, Wiltshire SN13 9XN www.sovereigndpc.co.uk | scott@sovereigndpc.co.uk

Luxury Flooring & Carpets

Showroom in Chelsea Road, Bath interior harmony flooring 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk

SWIMMING POOLS • SPAS • HOT TUBS

Independent company based in Wiltshire and covering the surrounding areas. Rock Pools & Spas provide comprehensive servicing, maintenance of Spas and Swimming Pools.

With over 16 years of experience they undertake tasks and complete them to the highest of standards.

Impeccable service, safety and efficiency from experts contact us for a free initial consultation or estimate.

SERVICING • MAINTENANCE • INSTALLATIONS 0333 600 9001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk

antique and modern carpets bought, sold repaired and cleaned 25 years in Bath Largest selection in the south west

9 8 WALCOT STREET, BATH BA 1 5 BG T E L 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E M A I L CONTACT @ HALIDEN . COM W W W. H A L I D E N . CO M

NEW YEAR INTERIORS

DIRECTORY

Cut out and keep our handy compendium to help you refresh your home for the New Year

Architects, builders and construction Casa Architects Toll Bridge Road, Bath; 01225 851871; www.casa-architects.co.uk Established Bath-based practice combining original contemporary design with sustainable principles

Esmond Murray Architects 21 Van Diemen’s Lane, Bath; 01225 447165; www.esmond murrayarchitects.com Award-winning Chartered RIBA Practice formed in 1991 with a new approach to private client residential design bringing together architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and project management The Nash Partnership 23 Sydney Buildings, Bath; 01225 442424; www.nashpartnership.com Award-winning architect offering complete package from design and planning to build Norton Masonry 38 Long Barnaby, Midsomer Norton, Radstock; 01761 419422 www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Stonework specialists and general builders

Rock Pools and Spas 86 Westbury Leigh, Westbury 0333 6009001 www.rockpoolsandspas.co.uk Design and servicing of spa’s and hot tubs Sovereign Damp Proofing 01249 716161 www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Comprehensive service for all kinds of damp proofing SRA Architects Queen Square House, Charlotte Street, Bath; 01225 827444 www.sra-architects.co.uk Award-winning architectural practice Western Building Consultants 2 Rush Hill, Bath 01225 789307; www.western buildingconsultants.co.uk Chartered building surveyors and architectural technologists

Bathrooms

Bathrooms at No 5 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon; 01225 309110 www.bathbathrooms.com Specialists in the supply of bathrooms in Bath, and the surrounding areas Achieve a striking table layout with Brissi candles; www.brissi.com

Ripples Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971 www.ripples.ltd.uk Ripples has been creating award-winning luxury designer bathrooms for 24 years

Courses and workshops

The Marmalade House 27a&b Belvedere, Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 445855 www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Learn how to paint furniture at their popular Annie Sloan courses

Curtains, blinds, shutters and soft furnishings

Aspect Window Styling 1 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Blinds, shutters, awnings, curtains, poles and accessories The Curtain Exchange 11 Widcombe Parade, Bath 01225 422078 www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk A wide range of bespoke and readymade curtains and blinds Fabric & Flair 10 St Martin’s Park, Marshfield, Chippenham 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk Making and fitting beautiful curtains, blinds and accessories for over 20 years Hestia Soft Furnishings The Midlands, Holt; 01225 782070 www.hestia-curtains.co.uk Hestia create beautifully designed handmade curtains and blinds.

Offering a bespoke hand sewn service to include lined and interlined curtains, pelmets, blinds, headboards, cushion and a range of accessories Kingfisher Blinds Radstock; 01761 434665 www.kingfisher-blinds.com Family run business based in

78 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Radstock. Established over 30 years ago, offering a personal, friendly service from first contact through to the installation of your chosen blinds

Fireplaces

Kindle Stoves Glenavon Farm, 331 Bath Road Saltford; 01225 874422 www.kindlestoves.co.uk Specialists in clean-burn woodburning and multi-fuel stoves. New purpose built showroom Mendip Fireplaces The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Fireplace, stove and chimney specialists with an extensive range of open fires, wood-burning and gas stoves, cookers and fire surrounds

Flooring and carpets Bath Contract Flooring 4 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 471888 www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Specialists in flooring

Boniti Dunsdon Road, West Littleton Road, Chippenham 01225 89200 www.boniti.com Stone flooring, bespoke furniture, custom kitchens Broadleaf Timber 134-136 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 463464 www.broadleaftimber.com Solid wooden floors, plank and parquet, oak flooring, made-tomeasure internal and external oak doors, staircases and joinery Capitol Carpets of Bath 120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341; www.thecarpet.co.uk A range of affordable carpet and stone flooring Haliden Oriental Carpets 98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com w

NEW YEAR INTERIORS Antique oriental carpets, Persian rugs, tribal weavings and antique turkmen carpets Interior Harmony Flooring 5A Chelsea Road, Bath; 01225 483818; www.interiorharmony.co.uk Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation The Natural Stone Tile Gallery 55 Semington Road, Melksham, Wilts; 01225 707447 www.limestoneflooringbath.co.uk Large range of full size limestone, slate, sandstone, marble, quartz, travertine and ceramic tiles Oriental Rugs of Bath 1 Hallatrow Business Park, Wells Road, Hallatrow; 01761 451764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com Rugs, kilims and various pieces of furniture Tile & Flooring Bath 1 Mile End, London Road West, Bath; 01225 310561 www.tileandflooring.co.uk Traditional family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration of wooden flooring from a selection of hundreds of different styles and materials

Furniture, interiors and homeware shops

Article 3 Bartlett street, Bath; 01225 460189; www.articlebath.com Artisan homewares & seasonal scents. Hand-made candles, fresh and dried floristry, linens, ceramics, cards and gifts Avenida Home 27 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 571718; www.avenidahome.com Classic home accessories Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 487888; www.bartlettstreetantiques centre.com An ever-changing array of fine quality antiques The Bath Framer 7 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk High quality framing services Brissi 38 Milsom Street, Bath; 01225 461145; www.brissi.com

Gorgeous homeware, furniture, lighting and mirrors Dible & Roy Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 862320 www.dibleandroy.co.uk Fabrics, flooring and furniture at their two-storey showroom The Fig Store 76 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 428031; www.thefigstore.com Stylish homewares, linens, industrial lighting, glassware and vintage furniture The Framing Workshop 80 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 482748; www.theframingworkshop. com. Box framing, glass and perspex boxes, hand-finished and gilded frames and more Graham and Green 92 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 418300 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Exceptional range of furniture and home accessories in a global, glamorous, individual and lifeenhancing style Homefront Interiors 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; 01225 571711 www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk New, vintage finds, handmade, sustainable, reclaimed and recycled homewares and decorative interiors pieces and gifts Leather Chairs of Bath 10 York Street. Bath; 01225 447920 www.leatherchairs.co.uk Offers new handmade-in-England leather chairs and sofas and restoring antique upholstered furniture, since 1988 Leekes Beanacre Park, Melksham; 0845 0508240; www.leekes.co.uk Quality furniture, electricals, home accessories and more Oka 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath 01225 443074; www.okadirect.com A 4,000 square foot interiors haven in the heart of Bath Old Bank Antiques Centre 16 – 17 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 01225 338813 www.oldbankantiquescentre.com Antiques and decorative items

80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Add glamour to your rooms with materials such as marble, seen here in a kitcen makeover completed by Papilio in Frome

Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716455 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, homeware and gifts Rossiters 38 – 41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com Offering quality furniture, accessories, fabrics, plus an interior design service Salcombe Trading Co 9 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 334281 www.salcombetrading.co.uk A distinctive mix of high quality furniture and accessories Verve Living 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 07785 332536; www.verveliving.uk An interiors space that fosters creativity and craftsmanship combining hands-on styling and sourcing services with furniture, artworks and homewares, all sourced and created in Britain

Furniture makers

Forest to Home 21 The Beeches, Shaw, Wiltshire, 07792 302327; www.foresttohome.com Uniquely beautiful pieces of handmade furniture, sourced from natural wood – oak, yew and ash trees

Hawker Joinery North End, Batheaston, Bath 01225 858233 www.hawker-joinery.co.uk The oldest established joinery business in Bath, with a reputation for quality service and workmanship. Specialising in doors, interiors and cabinetry The Kitchen Dresser Company 01782 575565; www.thekitchendresser.co.uk Bespoke kitchen dresser specialist on display in Article, Bartlett Street

Home entertainment

Moss of Bath 45 St James’ Parade, Bath; 01225 331441; www.mossofbath.co.uk Long-serving, independent TV and hi-fi retailer

Interior design

Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd Walcot Studio, Old Orchard, 88a Walcot Street, Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311 www.clairstrong.co.uk Innovative design for commercial and residential settings both large and small Woodhouse & Law 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Full interior design service; will advise on and source fabrics, furniture, bathrooms and kitchens

Kitchen accessories from AtNo67 Concept Store, Corsham; www.atnumber67.co.uk

Interior Styling

Catriona Archer 07823 884945 www.catrionaarcher.com Professional, affordable styling for residential and business interiors.

Designed to make the most of your existing items, storage and space

Kitchens

The Bath Kitchen Company 22 Hensley Road, Bath 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Family business designing unique, beautiful and functional kitchens for over 20 years Ben Argent Design 01225 448330 www.benargentdesign.com Beautiful bespoke kitchens designed to inspire Devizes Fine Kitchens 11-12 Northgate Street, Devizes 01380 721772; www.devizesfinekitchens.com Dedicated to the design and production of high quality bespoke kitchens and craft furniture Firenza Kitchens and Bathrooms Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, 01761 419114 www.firenzaltd.co.uk Design, supply and install kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms.

Large display in Midsomer Norton-based showroom Formosa Kitchens 32 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 868877; www.formosakitchens.co.uk Designing, supplying and installing quality kitchens hobsons|choice London Road, Bath: 01225 433511 www.hobsonschoice.uk.com

The Bath showroom is dedicated to kitchen manufacturer bulthaup, complemented by Carl Hansen furniture Homemaker Design 8 Pulteney Avenue, Bath; 01225 481881; www.myhomemaker.co.uk Contemporary kitchens at competitive prices Intoto Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 335600; www.intoto.co.uk Inspirational kitchens and living spaces Papilio The Coach House, Hapsford House, Frome; 01373 466 713 www.wearepapilio.co.uk Bespoke kitchen designers – transforming environments into inspirational spaces that are both functional and enjoyable Shaker and May L11 Marshall Way, Commerce Park Frome, Somerset; 01373 764345 www.shakerandmay.co.uk Specialising in the designing, manufacturing and installation of bespoke kitchens Splinter Works 01225 464957; www.splinterworks.co.uk Pioneering and progressive luxury kitchen design blending artistic forms and unique materials with practical and social requirements Stephen E Graver Edington Road, Steeple Ashton 01380 871746; www.stephengraver.com Bespoke kitchen, bathroom and furniture design

Westside Design Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 864260; www.westsidedesign.co.uk Kitchens, cabinet makers and joiners

Lighting

Enlighten of Bath 78 Walcot Street, Bath, 01225 424424 www.enlightenofbath.co.uk New retail showroom for home lighting solutions in the centre of Bath. Free home advisory service Lumination Gardiner Haskins, Broad Plain Bristol; 01179 226435 www.lumination.co.uk Specialist lighting retail store offering all styles of lighting.

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Windows and conservatories

Coast & Vale Windows Unit 2 Sunnyside, High Street Yetminster, Sherborne; 01935 872 640; www.coastandvale.com Design, Build and create perfect spaces, specialising in hardwood and aluminium orangeries, windows and doors

Permaframe Southgate, Frome; 01373 452022 www.permaframe.co.uk 25 years experience in the design and installation of bespoke conservatories, orangeries, windows and doors

Worktops and surfaces

Hobbs Marble & Granite Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton 01761 412934 www.hobbsmarbleand granite.co.uk Granite, marble, slate, travertine and quartz products Marble Supreme Unit 8 Bridge Road, Bristol; 0117 956 3030 www.marblesupreme.com Bristol based supplier of granite, Marble and quartz stone worktops and flooring The Marble Works of Bath Locksbrook Yard, Upper Bristol Road, Bath; 01225 780062 www.marbleworksofbath.com Marble and granite consultants, designers and suppliers.

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Music/theatre/film/more

THE REIGN OF PETE THE STREET This latest Victoria Art Gallery exhibition features over 100 new oil paintings and drawings by Peter Brown, also known as Pete the Street, and is a glorious celebration of the streets and green places of Bath. Despite being in demand globally, undertaking projects in Paris, Barcelona and Udaipur, India, Peter, who came to Bath in 1986 to study a foundation course in art, never tires of painting his home city.

“Bath was the city really which inspired me. I owe a lot to the city and it’s still inspiring me. The thread in all my paintings is an interest in light,” he explains.

“I relish the variety of our British climate and dramatic changes in the weather. When it rains the whole composition’s transformed and when you get a really good heavy rain I have very limited time to actually get the paint on. I only stop when I’m absolutely soaked through.”

Peter Brown: A Bath Painter’s Travels can be seen at Victoria Art Gallery until 19 February 2017; www.victoriagal.org.uk

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PHOTO BY CAM MCLEOD

25 December – 21 January

There’s still time to see this beautiful water beaker, which is on display at The Holburne Museum’s Silver: Light and Shade exhibition; Moira Huntly’s View from St Magdalena, Rupit can be viewed at part of the Winter Show at Bath Contemporary; The thrilling Warren Miller Ski Film Tour comes to Komedia on 10 January

Exhibitions U N TI L 9 J ANUARY

WINTER WONDERLAND ‘Tis the season to get arty with the Rostra Gallery who are exhibiting a seasonally-inspired, and affordable collection of prints, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery and cards. Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

U N TI L 1 2 JA N UAR Y

JUDY RODRIGUES: CIRCADIAN GARDENS Although Bristol-based, a childhood on the Isle of Wight inspired the artist to work from the elemental landscape and world around her. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org U N TI L 2 2 JA N UAR Y

U N TI L 1 2 JANUARY

SCI-ART SYNERGY Scientists have used creative works to show their research in a new light, and these exciting collaborations include visual interpretations of quantum dynamics, genetics, and the cosmos. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org

SILVER: LIGHT AND SHADE This exhibition brings together historic and contemporary silver masterpieces to tell a new story about the texture, form and colour of this extraordinary and precious metal. The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

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UNTIL 28 J ANUAR Y

WINTER SHOW Features cosy scenes from printmaker Frans Wesselman, delicate little porcelain bowls from Peter Wills, along with striking new paintings from Corinna Button and Moira Huntly and captivating miniature etchings by Peter Ford. Bath Contemporary; www.bathcontemporary.com UNTIL 31 JANUARY

DEVOTIONAL IMAGERY Leslie Glenn Damhus’s paintings capture the spirit of how symbolism is adaptive to changing social values. The playful signs and symbols in her portraits represent concepts that remain, even today, sacred

and wonderful. Lane House Arts; www.lanehousearts.co.uk UNTIL 12 F EB RUARY

RED – CULTURE, HISTORY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP This collection explores the many different aspects of this bold primary colour in Chinese culture, from the materials used to produce the shade, to the symbolism of the colour, and the rapid advancement of red wares during the Ming dynasty.

Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk UNTIL 19 F EB RUARY

PETER BROWN: A BATH PAINTER’S TRAVELS This exhibition features over 100 new oil paintings and drawings from allover the world by

W H AT ’ S O N

Bath-based artist Peter Brown, commonly known as Pete the Street for his habit of painting outdoors in all weathers. See page 83 for more. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTI L 1 9 F E B RUA RY

JEAN ROSE: THE POETRY OF THE EVERYDAY Jean Rose was among the first artists to enrol at the Bath Academy of Art in the late 1940s.

Sixty five years later she is still at work in the city, with beautiful works celebrating everyday social activities. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk UNTIL 5 MARCH 2017

DJORDJE OZBOLT: THE GRAND DETOUR By ‘invading’ the grounds of the museum Ozbolt the artist creates new works from old collections, and leads us to discover and consider exciting, fresh perspectives on the past.

The Holburne; Museum; www.holburne.org UNTIL 12 MARCH 2017

DRAWN TO THE LAND This ongoing and exploratory project by award-winning documentary photographer, Sophie Gerrard takes an intimate and stark look at the contemporary Scottish landscape, through a series of fascinating photographs of female farmers. Fox Talbot Museum, Lacock Abbey; www.nationaltrust.org.uk UNTIL 30 MAY 2017

#IGERSBATH Celebrate some of the best photography of Bath, by the talented people of Bath, with this Instagrammers exhibition supported by The Bath Pizza Co. Green Park Brasserie; www.bathpizzaco.com/exhibition UNTIL 1 JANUARY 2019

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS The Fashion Museum presents 100 ‘star’ objects that illustrate a fascinating history of fashion from the 1600s to the present day, referencing huge, groundbreaking moments in history, as well as the more personal and quieter stories about clothes. Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

ARTS

Plays/Shows U N TI L 8 JA NUAR Y

ALADDIN Aladdin – the classic and magical story of a boy, a lamp and a genie – is this year’s Bath panto, with star names including Coronation Street’s Bill Ward and CBBC’s Mark Rhodes, plus local favourite and comic actor, Jon Monie. £23-£33. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 3 – 7 JA N UA R Y

CRIMES AGAINST CHRISTMAS A group of people, mysteriously invited to a Christmas party on a remote island, start to die in suspiciously Christmassy ways – and Peter Artridge doesn’t like the look of the rope in the pear tree one bit. £14. Ustinov Studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 1 0 – 1 5 JA N UAR Y

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are putting on a 1920s murder mystery, but everything that can go wrong, does go wrong, as the accident-prone thespians valiantly battle on (and on) to reach their final curtain call. £18.50-£34.50. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 1 7 – 2 1 JA N UAR Y

HABEAS CORPUS Set in the late 1960s in Hove, this Alan Bennett play of suppressed passions by the seaside has all his hallmark wit, warmth and humanity. £12. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

Music 3 1 D E CE MBER

LONDON GALA ORCHESTRA This year’s eagerly awaited show will be on the theme of Viennese Dreams, featuring a host of Viennese classics, with two awardwinning singers and the 32-piece London Gala Orchestra, plus Auld Lang Syne with a piper to finish.

3pm-5.30pm, £15. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 1 JA N UA RY

WEST OF ENGLAND YOUTH ORCHESTRA Join the 70-piece symphony

Top to bottom: Adam & Eve by Michele Fabbricatore is at the Rostra Gallery; Visit Victoria Art Gallery the see Jean Rose’s The Poetry of The Everyday exhibition

orchestra, principal conductor Tim Redmond and Welsh soprano Natasha Marsh for a New Year’s Day programme featuring some of the greatest ever film scores including the music from Star Wars, James Bond, ET and The Dam Busters. 7.30pm, £15.

Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

13 J AN UARY

TOMMY EMMANUEL Acoustic guitar phenomenon and two-time Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel, whose five-decade career has garnered hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide, is bringing his passionate and infectious live show to Bath. 6.30pm, £25. Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

13 J ANUAR Y

PETE AVES AND THE MANUALS Pete Aves recently released his sixth studio album See How, which is described as full of ‘impossibly catchy tunes’ and praised with a ‘catharsis has never sounded so sweet’. 8pm, £10. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

14 J AN UARY

THE BOB DYLAN STORY The Bob Dylan Story is the new stunning and definitive tribute to a songwriting genius who spoke for a whole generation. Enhanced by a top backing band, the show lovingly and authentically recreates the many songs the w

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W H AT ’ S O N

way we all remember hearing them and that made Dylan the living legend he is today. £17, 8pm. Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

Family fun U N TI L 3 1 D E C E M BE R

CHRISTMAS AT LACOCK Throughout December, Father Christmas is at Lacock Abbey in his cosy Christmas kitchen, giving gifts and tasty festive treats to every child. Mother Christmas is also there to tell a Christmassy story. Plus Lacock’s beautiful medieval abbey cloister is filled with beautifully decorated fir trees for their annual Christmas tree festival. Lacock Abbey; www.nationaltrust.org.uk U N TI L 2 J ANUARY

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT AND AN EDWARDIAN CHRISTMAS IN LONGLEAT HOUSE Throughout the festive season of 2016, Longleat will be continuing their celebrations fit for a king by hosting a display of huge lanterns. Alongside the extravagant outdoor spectacles, Longleat’s prestigious Elizabethan stately home will be dressed in traditional Edwardian festive décor, plus listen out for the Amazing Singing Christmas Tree. Costs are included in general admission prices. For more details and information, visit www.longleat.co.uk UNTIL 2 JANUARY

CHRISTMAS FAMILY ACTIVITIES The Roman Baths, Fashion Museum and Victoria Art Gallery are hosting a series of fun, festive activities over the school holidays for all ages, including Christmas cards and gift tags decorating, creating sparkly decorations, and making Roman Bath themed fridge magnets.

See the individual websites for further details, or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk UNTIL 3 JANUARY

BATH ON ICE Blade runners get ready to experience ice skating in the centre of the city when Bath’s festive outdoor real ice rink returns to Royal Victoria Park.

There’s also Glow in the Dark Mini Golf, as well as an indoor

fully-licensed bar and café. £7.25/£8.75. Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonice.com U N TI L 1 5 JA N UAR Y

ROBIN HOOD Action-packed, fast-paced and fantastically funny, this year’s egg Christmas show brings to life the legend of Nottingham’s muchloved outlaw Robin Hood, who is accompanied by daring deeds, a cast of four merry men and a female ska band. £18/£12. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk U N TI L 2 2 JA N UAR Y

THE NEW ADVENTURES OF SNOW MOUSE Come and join the two new friends – a sleepy mouse and a little boy – on their enchanting Christmassy adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music. £8.50/£7.50. the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Other 3 1 D E CE MBE R

NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL AT THE PUMP ROOM Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2016 in spectacular style at the Roman Baths and Pump Room. Enjoy a magical drinks reception around the steaming waters of the Great Bath before a superb five-course

86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Top to bottom: The Play That Goes Wrong is at Theatre Royal Bath, going wrong; The Ustinov stages the murderous Crimes Against Christmas

dinner with wine. There will be live entertainment throughout the evening and plenty of dancing. For more information and pricing, visit www.romanbathssearcys.co.uk 10 J ANUAR Y

WARREN MILLER SKI FILM TOUR The world’s largest annual ski

film tour, the 67th annual Warren Miller film Here, There & Everywhere, brings the thrill of action snow sports to UK enthusiasts, as the world’s most accomplished skiers and snowboarders scour the globe for untracked powder and the pursuit of adventure.

7.30pm, £12. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

AFTER 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Appreciate Italy in a totally new way

IS HAVING A MASSIVE

CLEARANCE

SALE We will be closing temporarily in the new year for an exciting refurbishment and will reopen as a unique and fabulous jewellery shop.

EVERYTHING MUST GO Stock up on Christmas decorations, Jellycat toys, Burleigh China, mugs, candle holders, clocks, chimes and hundreds of stocking fillers *Jewellery not included

23 BROCK STREET BATH BA1 2LW WWW.ALEXANDRAMAY.COM 01225 465 094

Immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture and tradition 9-day guided tours to the Unesco World Heritage recognised Cinque Terre, stunning Tuscany and glorious Emilia Romagna 5-day cooking lesson tours to Cinque Terre with professional and award-winning chefs “Before the big day” tours to the picturesque Lake Garda region For more information, visit our website www.doriatour.com

Images of Bath Original Art by ANDREW RICHMOND

the home of rice and noodles Classical Thai cuisine in a relaxed and friendly authentic Thai environment

FOR COMMISSIONS CONTACT arichmond01@gmail.com

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PAINTING – DECORATING – CARPENTRY JOINERY – MAINTENANCE

Tel: 07703976707 Email: info@chcarpentry.net Web: www.chcarpentry.net

BATH EVENTS AND FESTIVALS January - July 2017 Bath Bachfest 16th – 18th February www.bathbachfest.co.uk 36 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LP 01225 311232 www.koh-thai.co.uk f a

Bath Life Awards 23rd February www.bathlifeawards.co.uk Vitality Bath Half Marathon 12th March www.bathhalf.co.uk Bath Comedy Festival 1st – 17th April www.bathcomedy.com

The Workshop, 10 St. Martins Park, Marshfield, SN14 8PQ Tel: 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk

The Bath Digital Festival 5 – 13 April www.visitbath.co.uk/whats-on/the-bath-digital-festival

Your Food, Our Passion

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3EB Tel: 01225 446656 a #MRB

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The Bath Festival 19 – 28 May www.bathfestivals.org.uk The Bath Fringe 26th May – 11th June www.bathfringe.co.uk Iford Arts Festival 27th May – 2nd Aug www.ifordarts.org.uk The Royal Bath and West Show 31st May – 3rd June www.bathandwest.com The Bath Boules Tournament 9th – 11th June www.bathboules.com Forest of the Imagination 29th June – 2nd July www.forestofimagination.org.uk orientalrugsofbath.com tel 01761 451764

LETTINGS, INVESTMENT AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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ARTS

SCULPTURE

PORTRAIT of an ARTIST Lisa Evans meets 12 inspiring studio artists based at Bath’s 44AD and discovers their unique medley of talents Photo g raphy by SI MON TAY LOR

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ONE TO ONE

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and syntax, I want my images to go beyond the recognition of line and form so they interact with the viewer and show up surprising juxtapositions,” she says, adding that being at 44AD has allowed her to continue exploring her art and take pleasure in collaborative ventures.

DRAGOMIR MIŠINA

“It’s crucial for me to be part of an inspiring environment. 44AD provides that atmosphere, which would be very difficult to replace,” says the painter.

BROOSE DICKINSON

Having established himself in Texas as a visual artist and musician, Broose has exhibited extensively in the US and Europe and describes 44AD as his sanctuary.

ANNA ROBSON

Clockwise, from above: abstract artist Anna Kot; textile designer Lucy Rolfe; visual artist Broose Dickinson; painter Dragomir Mišina; opposite page: illustrator Donna-Marie Scrase

O

ne of them has worked for Vogue and her art is sold at Liberty’s, and another was selected to complete a wall mural at No.15 Great Pulteney Street – Bath’s newest boutique hotel. Here we meet the artists helping to make gallery and studio space 44AD such a vibrant and dynamic creative community hub.

After completing a degree and Master of Fine Art at Bath Spa University, the sculpturist and painter says 44AD provided her the perfect transition space to further develop her practice amongst fellow creatives. “It gives artists the chance to get their work out there,” she says. “Open studio days and visits from students give us the chance to get feedback from a wide-ranging audience.”

ANGIE KINNEAR

“44AD is, for me, a creative oasis with a vibrant, supportive community, which stimulates and inspires me,” says the painter. w

DONNA-MARIE SCRASE

With over 16 years’ design experience, Donna has worked on many magazine titles – from Vogue to Country Homes. The illustrator now creates bespoke graphics for greeting cards, gifts and wedding stationery and you’ll find her brand in Liberty, and London’s Fashion & Textile Museum.

“44AD is a very special place,” she says. “It’s a hub where you’ll find many talented artists creating art for Bath to enjoy.”

LUCY ROLFE

The textile designer-maker specialises in surface pattern design and digital and screen printing.

She says that the “stimulating, supportive, creative and friendly environment” at 44AD has helped and encouraged her on her way to returning to the world of art.

ANNA KOT

She’s mainly interested in exploring the structural elements of abstract art and how a single colour change will influence what is expressed. “Just as verbal communication involves more than words www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

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ONE TO ONE

JESS PIGOTT

The painter and mixed media artist, who has just completed a striking wall mural at No.15 Great Pulteney Street – Bath’s newest boutique hotel – says, “I left my London studio because it became unaffordable, and since moving to Bath I’ve found the support of a growing creative community and a place to work in a city that I love.”

BERYL DESMOND

Using acrylic paint on canvas, wooden panel or paper, Beryl responds to structures in the landscape with which she feels a connection. “My work is based on the thematic continuum and investigates the relationship between architecture and space,” she says. “44AD offers me and the whole community an exciting and unique opportunity to create, exhibit and experience the contemporary art scene.”

Sculpturist and painter Anna Robson

Beryl Desmond’s art is based on the ‘thematic continuum’

ELAINE BREEN

By using a variety of materials and found objects, Elaine’s work concentrates on the emotional investment in the physical. Her art – from installations to illustrations – explores ways of seeing, where the emphasis is placed on vulnerability. She describes 44AD as “a wonderful self-funded space which meets the needs of the artistic community and far beyond”.

SVETA ANTONOVA

She’s intrigued by the paradox of the universality and restrictiveness of language, and she uses this as inspiration for her art. “Constantly fed by my theoretical research in linguistics and media, my practice explores sculpture, installation, performance, sound and computer linguistics.”

ROBERT LUZAR

“Through the window of my studio at 44AD I hear delightful sounds: people, songs, the bells of Bath Abbey – all sounds that colour everything I create in the studio, and I enjoy giving back to audiences in Bath and beyond,” says the artist and writer.

44AD, 4 Abbey Street, Bath; www.44ad.net

Elaine Breen uses found objects to complete her artworks

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Mixed media artist Jess Pigott

Philosophy for living Free course starts January 2017 The aim of philosophy is to set people free; free from pressure and free from worry; free to grow, free to be themselves. So it seems fitting that a philosophy course should be free. This ten session short course, called Philosophy for Living, looks at life and its meaning, the world and its causes and applying mindfulness to every moment. Based on the classic philosophies of East and West, it invites us to see life as a place to test the words of the wise.

Feel free to join us.

BATH When? Tuesdays at 7.15pm starting 24th Jan 2017 Where? 30 Milsom St, Bath, BA1 1DG BRISTOL When? Thursdays at 7.15pm starting 26th Jan 2017 Where? Charnwood House, 30 Cotham Park, Bristol, BS6 6BU

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

Registered Educational Charity 313115 Charity number 313115

www.bathandbristolphilosophy.org

BOOKS

CHILD’S PLAY

From a duck that can’t quack, to a dog that kidnaps Santa, the characters in these wintery reads are sure to keep the little ones entertained…

By N IC BO T T OM L E Y

T

here seems to be an animal theme running through my favourite children’s books for winter. Whether domestic, farmyard or more fantastical, they seem to have been cropping up even more frequently than usual in all of the books I’ve enjoyed sharing with my kids these last few months.

On the pet front, we’ve been won over once again by Alex T. Smith’s offbeat canine, Claude, who has returned in his most festive escapade yet Santa Claude (Hodder, £8.99).

As with his previous adventures, Claude has donned his snazzy beret and is accompanied by his loyal pal, Sir Bobblysock – certainly the only footwear hero I’ve ever encountered.

This escapade is kicked off with a case of mistaken identity as the dog and sock duo triumphantly handcuff a burglar to a chair.

The trouble is, by the time they realise that the intruder is actually the gift-bearing Santa, they’ve lost the handcuff key. Now it’s down

to Claude and Sir Bobblysock to take control of the sleigh and make sure all those presents are delivered, but, as ever with these two, of course things don’t quite go to plan.

Claude is great for children aged around five and older, but for toddlers the most hilarious paperback picture book of the season is Kes Gray’s Quick Quack Quentin (Hachette, £6.99). Quentin is a duck with a problem – he can’t quack. Or rather he can only quck. Once the duck doctor diagnoses a lost ‘a’, Quentin sets off in search of someone who might have a spare. All the animals are generous but they just don’t have the right letters to offer. If the hen becomes a hn, Quentin can only queck and if the dog becomes a dg, he’ll still only be able to quock. Quentin’s quest to find an extra ‘a’ is full of hilarious wordplay at the just right level for young listeners beginning to learn their letters.

For more practiced readers (in that eight to 12 years territory) I’m particularly fond

ARTS

at the moment of two books focused on unlikely friendships between youngsters and creatures. In Pax by Sara Pennypacker (Harper Collins, £12.99) a boy named Peter is struggling in life after the loss of his mother.

Solace comes in an unexpected form. Peter discovers Pax, a fox, alone in the woods and smuggles him home inside his coat. Boy and fox become inseparable companions until they are forced apart after Peter’s father enlists in the army. This though is a book about the immense strength of friendship (particularly when life isn’t at its smoothest) and, from distant start points, Peter and Pax soon strike out in search of one another.

Aside from being a lovely story, beautifully told, Pax is also enhanced by illustrations from Jon Klassen – the man behind the ingenious subversive children’s picture book I Want My Hat Back and its recent spin-off We Found a Hat (Walker, £12.99).

In Perijee and Me by Ross Montgomery (Faber, £6.99) the non-human side of the oddball friendship isn’t strictly speaking within my animal theme. Perijee is in fact a shape-shifting alien – albeit a very cute one. Perijee initially seems to be the perfect new friend for Caitlin to add a spark to her long, potentially boring, holiday. But in a plot with more than a few ET overtones, their fun is soon threatened when the military is called-in to capture Perijee. As he flees, causing mayhem all along the way, Perijee soon needs Caitlin’s help to save both him and perhaps the world itself.

Finally, as we’re talking strange doubleacts, a word about the latest in the brilliant comic strip series Phoebe and the Unicorn which I more than likely raved about at some point earlier on in 2016. The fourth instalment Razzle Dazzle Unicorn by Dana Simpson (Andrews McMeel, £6.99) has just been released and is full of wonderful offbeat humour about the quirky Phoebe and her insufferably vain unicorn pal, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils. For any reader over seven with a growing sense of sarcastic comedy, the dysfunctional relationship between this pair will lead to endless guffaws over the festive season.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; 01225 331155; www.mrbsemporium.com

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GoldHandmade & Platinum Studio and Bespoke Jewellery

Fine jewellery designed and traditionally crafted on the premises Bespoke I Valuations I Remodelling I Repairs I Resizing 19 Northumberland Place, Bath BA1 5AR I Tel: 01225 462 300 www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk I Email: mike@goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

BARTLETT STREET

ANTIQUES

Offering a diversity and quality of stock to rival London’s Bond Street or the Portobello Road.

For the most comprehensive collection of quality Antiques, Jewellery, Fine Silver, Vintage Collectables and Fine Art outside of London with in-house working Goldsmiths.

Over 70 specialist dealers showing on stands and displaying in showcases.

#BartlettStreetQuarter Bartlett Street Antiques Centre 8 Bartlett Street Bath BA1 2QZ • Email: bartlettstreet@yahoo.co.uk Open 10am - 4.30pm Monday to Saturday, closed Sundays and Public Holidays

To contact individual dealers by telephone please use our website:

www.bartlettstreetantiquescentre.com

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E T E C H N O L O G Y

TECHIES WITH THE HUMAN TOUCH From Apple to audio, FARPOINT are the go-to store for tech equipment and advice – with an innovative TechBenefits scheme for the workplace

F

arpoint have hosted a plethora of events this year: from inviting a talented local artist to transform the front of the Walcot Street shop with unique spray can art to being the first store in the UK to launch and demonstrate the latest industry-leading home cinema systems from Bose.

The next year shows no signs of slowing either as they have launched their brand new refreshed website for their salary sacrifice scheme – TechBenefits. TechBenefits has been running now since 2010, offering employers an easy way to provide employees with the latest technology all paid directly from their salary with national insurance savings. This service draws upon their years of experience in the trade and everything

“EACH AND EVERY PURCHASE RECEIVES TAILORED ASSISTANCE”

sold is backed up the standard Farpoint service. Each and every purchase receives tailored assistance, recommendations and support that Farpoint are known for. The whole process is made so simple that there’s minimum hassle and they will talk you through everything, every step of the way to make sure that, as the name suggests, everyone benefits!

Locally, after another successful year supporting the people of Bath, Farpoint are once again moving from strength to strength.

As one of the primary Apple Service Centres in the area you can always drop in for everything from friendly impartial advice to repairs of Apple Computers. As well as this, whether you’re new to the world of Apple or a seasoned veteran, there’s always something new to learn with professional one-to-one training. You can either come in for an hour's training on a subject of your choosing or enrol in the Farpoint Privilege Club to get 12 lessons over the course of a year at a greatly discounted rate. (Access to this club will also make a great gift bundled alongside a new tablet or phone!).

The nature of technology means that the market, and what’s available, is constantly changing – occasionally this can feel overwhelming. The Farpoint pros keep up-todate and know the ins and outs of everything they sell. With varied interests themselves, each member of staff will have a unique opinion that can be useful to help to whittle down your options further until you’re left with the perfect product. Stocking everything from the latest Apple products to audio equipment such as sports headphones or TV sound bars, Farpoint have an ever expanding variety of tech to choose from.

Farpoint Developments Ltd The Old Red House Bakery, 90c Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG 01225 460678; info@farpoint.co.uk www.farpoint.co.uk www.techbenefits.co.uk

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102 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Chez Dominique The former executive chef of Bowood House is now the master of his own kitchen. We went along to his characterful Argyle Street restaurant to experience the modern, French-themed menu for ourselves…

By L I SA E VA NS

I

THE

’ve never been excited about soup before. It’s what my mum used serve me when I was a convalescent tot, and it’s now a go-to, unsatisfying al desko lunch at the office when I don’t have the time to pop out. I won’t ordinarily order it at restaurants, but, oddly enough, the Jerusalem artichoke and wild mushroom variety really stood out to me when I cast eyes on Chez Dominque’s menu. It was the promise of the unmistakably hedonistic aroma of truffle oil, which the waitress guaranteed would hit me hard even before I tasted it that sold it to me. She wasn’t wrong.

And, after that first burst of umami flavour, I forgot all the social subtleties surrounding soup consumption and took on a possessed form as I wolfed the creamy, hug-in-abowl down. My comrade was jealous of my silky-smooth triumph, but was satisfied with his choice of beautifully presented rillettes of salmon with cucumber dressing and horseradish crème fraîche.

We ordered from the à la carte menu, but the very reasonable prix fixe menu (two or three courses for a set price) had some very tempting options on it, too – from a pickled anchovy, soft boiled egg and fine bean salad starter, to a main of onglet steak with red wine sauce and pomme frites. For me, it’s butter-yellow ribbons of tagliatelle in a deeply flavoured parmesan cream with yet more wild mushrooms perched neatly on top (I see a trend emerging).

And for my dining partner it’s the roast Wiltshire lamb rump served with borlotti beans and perky salsa verde. The meltingly soft meat was babycheek pink inside, perfectly seasoned and judged, and drizzled with a rich, reduced gravy that insinuated itself into every corner of the dish.

The menus are stuffed with modern French-twist dishes such as wood pigeon with parsnip and mustard rémoulade; smoked eel with chicory, apple and bacon; and roquefort

MELTINGLY SOFT MEAT WAS BABY-CHEEK PINK INSIDE AND DRIZZLED WITH A RICH, REDUCED GRAVY THAT INSINUATED ITSELF INTO EVERY CORNER

OF THE DISH

panna cotta with a red wine-poached comice pear and caramelised walnuts. The restaurant itself is intimate and effortlessly charming, with a relaxed Parisian air about it.

It seats 35, plus there’s a private dining room which has a view of Pulteney Weir and cosily welcomes a further eight.

Chris Tabbitt and Sarah Olivier, who own the business along with Chris’s parents, both have extensive experience in the catering industry, and Chris, who’s the head chef, swapped his role as executive chef of Bowood House in Calne to become master of his own kitchen.

He started his culinary career at the Three Horseshoes in Madingley, a renowned and innovative restaurant on the outskirts of Cambridge, where he developed a passion for creating beautiful plates. He then went on to continue his French and British cuisine training at Bibendum, the famous London restaurant in the Michelin building, founded by Simon Hopkinson. From there he took on head chef roles before coming to Bath, a place which he and Sarah decided was ideal to open their own family business in as they felt it had many similarities to their cosmopolitan home town of Cambridge.

The couple only opened the establishment – the name inspired by their first child, Dominic – back in September, and took over the Argyle Street spot which once housed Alsace-themed café Le Flamma. Chez is so new, still, that customers dash in expecting to be able to buy takeaway fish and chips from the restaurant which was previously a shop-meets-deli. It’s been renovated significantly from its former life and has been stripped back to reveal original features and secluded alcoves which had been hidden away. What Chris and Sarah are left with is a fresh-faced, informal, Farrow and Ball-licked interior with striking contemporary chandeliers and a bundle of character.

We couldn’t leave without sampling dessert; we shared a pumpkin cheesecake, baked to perfection and served with stem ginger ice cream, and indulged in an epic cheeseboard complete with quince chutney and water biscuits. Upon finishing, all we wanted to do was stay and lounge at the restaurant for the remainder of the evening as the atmosphere was so inviting and low-key, and thankfully there’s no feeling of needing to clear off ready for the next customer. As the restaurant will be closed from Christmas Eve until the end of December, we look forward to returning in the New Year to experience their exciting menu update; I just hope they keep my delightful truffly soup on there…

DINING DETAILS Chez Dominique, 15 Argyle Street, Bath; 01225 463482; www.chezdominique.co.uk Prices Prix fixe menu: £13 for two course or £16 for three; à la carte menu: starters £6 – £9, mains £13 – £17.50, dessert £1.50 – £8 Wine list A wide selection of French, Italian and Spanish wines, among others, with prices ranging from £18 – £49 per bottle Service/atmosphere Utterly charming and knowledgeable/ hassle-free and subdued

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D I N I N G A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

DINING in BATH Bath Life’s selection of the best places to eat out in Bath and the surrounding area

BRITISH THE BATH PRIORY Weston Rd, Bath; 01225 331922; www.thebathpriory.co.uk Michelin starred fine dining overlooking hotels award-winning gardens THE BEAUFORT 1 Beaufort, London Road, Bath; 01225 422033; www.thebeaufortbath.com Family run restaurant in the heart of Larkhall cooking creative, seasonal food CIRCUS RESTAURANT 34 Brock Street, Bath; 01225 466020; www.thecircusrestaurant.co.uk Voted number four in the UK in The Times “20 secret restaurants that foodies love” THE DOWER HOUSE, ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk/dining AA 3 rosette fine dining at one of Bath’s most iconic locations

www.cafelucca.co.uk Stylish contemporary café situated at The Loft on Bartlett Street offering a Mediterranean inspired menu with barista coffee and sumptuous homemade cakes GREEN BIRD CAFÉ 11 Margaret's Buildings, Bath; 01225 487846; www.greenbirdcafe.co.uk Independently run cafe located between the Circus & Royal Crescent ST JAMES CAFÉ 5- 6 St James St, St James Square, Bath; 01225 336106 Recently refurbished café and deli THE KINGSMEAD KITCHEN 1 Kingsmead St, Kingsmead Square, Bath; 01225 329002; www.fieldfireandfeast.co.uk Laid-back, modern cafe-bar open daily from 8am until 6pm for breakfast, brunch, lunch and tea using own farm produce

CALIFORNIAN THE FIREHOUSE ROTISSERIE 2 John St, Bath; 01225 482070; www.firehouserotisserie.co.uk Californian and Tex-Mex dishes, prepared over a wood-fired grill in a rustic setting

serving a modern British menu based on west country produce THE CHEQUERS 50 Rivers St, Bath; 01225 360017; www.thechequersbath.com Inventive British food served in a welcoming pub atmosphere close to the Royal Crescent THE CURFEW 11 Cleveland Pl, Bath; 01225 313747 www.thecurfewbath.co.uk Friendly central pub under new ownership.

Bar food with locally sourced ingredients THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, City Centre, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com City centre pub and dining room next to Theatre Royal THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Rd, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor area

FRENCH

THE LOCKSBROOK INN 103 Locksbrook Rd, Bath; 01225 427119; www.thelocksbrookinn.com Recently opened canal side gastropub in Bath, open every day for drinks, brunch, coffee, lunch, evening meals and grazing in between

JOHANN LAFER, THE GAINSBOROUGH Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Menus inspired by Johann Lafer’s “Dining Without Borders” philosophy

LE BISTROT PIERRE Princes Buildings, 4 George St, Bath; 01225 321840; www. lebistrotpierre.co.uk/bath Regional French dishes

THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce

MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu

WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812; www.woodsrestaurant.com One of Bath’s oldest restaurants serving French influenced British cuisine

THE RICHMOND ARMS 7 Richmond Place, Bath; 01225 316725; www.therichmondarmsbath.com Hearty dishes with menu changing on a daily basis

THE OLIVE TREE RESTAURANT, THE QUEENSBERRY HOTEL Russell St, Bath; 01225 447928; www.thequeensberry.co.uk One of Bath’s longest established restaurants, overseen by Chris Cleghorn with 3 AA rosettes

GASTROPUBS

INDIAN

GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com “Dude Food” menu cooked with authentic handmade American hot smoker

THE EASTERN EYE 8a Quiet St, Bath; 01225 422323; www.easterneye.com Classic traditional Bengali cuisine in grand Georgian interior space

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room

THE MINT ROOM Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk Award winning contemporary Indian fine dining

HENRYS 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; 104 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E D I N I N G

ITALIAN MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere PONTE VECCHIO Spring Gardens Rd, Bath; 01225 466833; www.pontevecchiobath.com Fantastic central location next to Pulteney Bridge

THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath; 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath; 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

STEAK HOUSES

SOTTO SOTTO 10 N Parade, Bath; 01225 330236; www.sottosotto.co.uk Classic Italian menu with a contemporary twist in candlelit vaulted cellars

THE HERD 12a Argyle St, Bath; 01225 316583; www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Locally sourced meat of the finest provenance alongside a simple, seasonal menu

PIZZA

HUDSON STEAKHOUSE 14 London St, Bath; 01225 332323; www.hudsonsteakhouse.co.uk Award winning steakhouse in listed building specialising in prime aged steaks and delicious starters with a fusion twist

DOUGH The Corridor, Bath; 01225 443686; www.doughpizzarestaurant.co.uk World class pizza from Massimo Nucaro

TAPAS MADRID 5 Chapel Row, Bath; 01225 423417; www.madrid-tapas-bath.com Bringing a taste of Madrid to Bath – traditional Spanish tapas with a modern twist OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath; 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets

THAI KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath; 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath; 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu

OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH THE FIELD KITCHEN 1 Brook Ln, Holt BA14 6RL; 01225 784081; www.glovefactorystudios.com/kitchen Serving fresh seasonal dishes within the Glove Factory Studios THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTELS LUCKNAM PARK Colerne, Wilts, SN14 8AZ; 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk Michelin Star fine dining at the renowned Park restaurant and more informal dining at the stylish contemporary brasserie at 5 star country house hotel WIDBROOK GRANGE HOTEL Trowbridge Rd, Bradford-on-Avon

BA15 1UH; 01225 864750; www.widbrookgrange.co.uk Modern farmhouse cuisine, locally sourced and freshly prepared

GASTROPUBS BIDDESTONE ARMS Biddestone, Wilts SN14 7DG; 01249 714377; www.biddestonearms.co.uk Whitewashed country pub with upmarket, robust British fare in a beautiful Cotswold stone village BUNCH OF GRAPES 14 Silver St, Bradford-on-Avon BA15 1JY; 01225 938088; www.thebunchofgrapes.com Bar and restaurant inspired by the village bistros of South West France THE LAMB ON THE STRAND 99 The Strand, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6LL; 01380 870263; www.thelambonthestrand.co.uk Classic British menus and real ales in a family-run pub and restaurant, plus a garden with kids' playground

THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn THE PEAR TREE INN Top Ln, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms THE WHEELWRIGHTS ARMS Church Lane, Monkton Combe, BA2 7HB; 01225 722287; www.wheelwrightsarms.co.uk Pub featuring modern takes on British classics, plus understated, individually decorated guestrooms

FARM SHOPS MEADGATE FARM SHOP Weekesley Ln, Timsbury, BA2 0NH; 01761 470089; www.meadgatefarmshop.co.uk Shop and café selling local produce

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NEW YEAR'S EVE

Join us for a night of surprises including performances from dazzling Bollywood dancers and entertainment from our resident DJ Shindy.

WINNER WATERING HOLE

2 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP info@commonroombath.co.uk 01225 425550

COMMONROOMBATH.CO.UK

Come and join in the fun at Martini Restaurant.

Open for New Year's Eve Celebrate with our team!

8/9 George Street, Bath BA1 2EH Tel: 01225 460818 reservations@martinirestaurant.co.uk www.martinirestaurant.co.uk

F O R BO OKING S PH O NE

01 225 4436 86

1 4 – 1 6 T H E CO R R I D O R , BAT H

20% O FF BOO

K THRO INGS UGHO UT JANU ARY

S P E C I A L I T Y P I Z Z E R I A N OW O P E N I N T H E CO R R I DO R , B AT H The only Italian pizzeria that lets you choose your dough, from traditional sourdough to hemp, gluten free, kamut and more

D O U G H P I Z Z A R E S TA U R A N T. C O . U K

newly refurbished...

Widbrook Grange Restaurant Modern farmhouse cooking from our award winning chef in an elegant grade 2 listed farmhouse, now completely re designed Also open to non residents for dinner

To see what all the fuss is about and to book a table call 01225 864750 or email stay@widbrookgrange.co.uk www.widbrookgrange.co.uk

Widbrook Grange Hotel Bradford on Avon BA15 1UH widbrookgrangehotel @widbrookgrange

THE CURFEW PRIVATE HIRE

HAPPY NEW YEAR, TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS

Tickets now available for New Years Eve TEL: 01225 425403 Tickets in advance £5.00 – Tickets on the door £7.00 See our facebook for events and opening times.

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

Our upstairs lounge, available for private hire, has its own bar, big screen TV and fantastic staff to help make your event a success. Be it a business meeting or birthday party, the Curfew has everything you need.

The Curfew Please contact Dan or Emily on 01225 313747 for details 11 Cleveland Place West, Bath BA1 5DG

www.thecurfewbath.co.uk

Join the Madness!

We are a family run tea room located right in the heart of the beautiful city of Bath.

Offering cream teas, homemade cakes, snacks, the finest selection of Lavazza coffee and Teapigs. You’d be mad not to visit us!

Order your sushi takeaway online and get it delivered* www.bathsushi.co.uk 01225 330508 3 Victoria Buildings, Bath BA2 3EH *minimum order £25

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party 5 Orange Grove, Bath BA1 1LP

Near the

01225 466 733 Abbey www.madhattersbath.co.uk Bath

FOOD & DRINK W H AT ’ S M A K I N G T H E G O U R M E T N E W S I N B AT H

HOME BREW Moorland Road in Oldfield Park, which is fast becoming a hive of café culture, has a new addition to its eateries, Fire & Brew, which will specialise in craft beers and wood-fired pizzas.

The team behind the two-floor restaurant includes the owners of two Bath-based drinks companies: Honey’s Midford Cider and Electric Bear Brewing Co. Gerard Coles of Honey’s explains, “We ran a few outside bars with the Electric Bear guys earlier in the year, so it seemed a natural course to look for a more permanent base together.

“Originally we planned to open a bottle shop, but when we saw the fantastic former party shop premises on Moorland Road, we could see huge potential for something more adventurous.

“The area has such a great and supportive community, who were buzzing about our plans way before we even opened.”

For more: www.fireandbrew.com “Top that”, says head chef Jamie Daniels

Arun and the goodness of Phat Yak’s food

PHAT’S THE WAY TO DO IT Sera and Sarah Gurung, owners of Yak Yeti Yak in Pierrepoint Street, have expanded their business and have put their powers of cooking great Nepalese food to good use.

“We’ve been thinking of opening a street-food restaurant for several years,” explains Sarah whose husband Sera was once a trekking and river guide in his homeland of Nepal. “We had already started testing the market with a small stall when the Nepal earthquakes happened in 2015, so we used it to became a major fundraiser.

So far we have managed to fund several schools in Nepal as a result. Our YYY Foundation charity is now established in its own right and will continue to rebuild more damaged schools.”

The couple have now secured a spot in Kingsmead Square for a permanent takeaway and café called Phat Yaks, which will open early 2017. “Our son Arun is joining the business, and we will be serving traditional Nepalese favourites including Masala omelette, Phat toast and chocolate chia pudding.”

For more: www.phatyaks.com

YES CHEFS!

Second from left, MasterChef’s Elly Wentworth cooking up a treat with Dean Westcar, Marta Kulesza, Tianna Freeman and Jess Loveridge

Students at Bath College had the chance to work with some of the city’s best chefs, including David Campbell –executive head chef at The Royal Crescent, Bath – along with Lucknam Park chef Elly Wentworth who has recently been seen competing on BBC One’s MasterChef: The Professionals.

Organised by the Chefs’ Forum, a fourcourse dinner was held at the Bath College Shrubbery Restaurant and included a special ‘pay what you can’ lunch raising money for the industry charity Hospitality Action.

“Chefs’ Lunch was an amazing experience for the students,” says Bridget Halford, head of hospitality at the college.

“It was a real privilege for them to work with such talented chefs from across the Bath area and a fabulous opportunity for the students to showcase their skills to local employers.

“Every seat in our restaurant was filled and with an impressive £1,000 raised for industry charity, Hospitality Action, we were delighted with this.”

For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

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W E D D I N G S a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e

meet the wedding expert When you want to say ‘I do’, turns out there’s a huge amount to do. Here our professional panel give advice on everything from flowers and the dress, to jewellery and the venue

Grace Farrimond

Kerry Munday

Young Blooms 01225 580271 www.youngblooms.co.uk

Perfect Day Bride 01225 309309 www.perfectdaybridal.net

What is it that you love about working on weddings?

My team and I love the whole process from the initial meeting through to handing over the bridal bouquet. We care deeply about creating fabulous designs for the couple on their wedding day – flowers are such a personal thing and can say so much about people.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

At least nine to twelve months before the wedding. Our dresses can take up to five months to be made, then alterations start about two months prior to the big day.

So give yourself enough time.

What’s hot for 2017?

An emerging trend for 2017 is ‘Embracing British’, which we are really excited about as we have our own flower garden.

May through to late autumn, we grow a bespoke selection of gorgeous flowers which are available for our brides.

What’s the best bit of advice you could give a bride?

We would advise the bride to think about ‘bridal separates’ as it allows them to be creative with their look. It also enables the bride to have different looks throughout the day. A big winner we say!

How would you describe your signature style?

Our style is luxury but relaxed with a delicate and earthy feel. I am so passionate about designing floral pieces that are right for peoples wedding day and yet I feel I have gained the confidence over the years to steer them away from ideas when I don’t think they will fit.

What is it you do that makes you different to your competitors?

We specialise in the niche of the market for modern and cool brides looking for that fashion edge in their wedding gown. We also host some of the world’s best bridal talent in our studio.

What makes you unique?

Having the Not So Secret Garden to create designs from gives us a very unique edge.

Through the summer months I can go in the morning and pick armfuls of sweet-peas, wander back up to our workshop and pop them into arrangements.

How and why did you get involved in the wedding industry?

It just clicked. With a background in luxury fashion brands and my business partner Laura’s creative flair – Perfect Day Bride captures everything we love and stand for.

112 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Adam Carter

Photography 07793 366076 www.adamcarterwedding.co.uk What is it you love about working on weddings?

Weddings are unique events, which have a special place in the hearts of the couple involved. To be accepted and welcomed into this intimate occasion is a big privilege for any photographer. I really enjoy meeting people at weddings, and feeling their excitement and trepidations Tell us a bit about one incredibly original or fun wedding you’ve been involved with.

I did a Halloween Wedding this year which was extraordinary - it started off as a usual registry office and reception type affair, and I was beginning to wonder what would happen to keep it interesting. I shouldn’t have worried, all the guests came to the evening party dressed in some fairly amazing spooky costumes.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

Most people book me about a year or so before the day.

I get booked up well in advance, so do give yourself enough time. About a week or two before the day I like to be given a recap of what is happening and where, as plans can often change from the original details when making a booking.

Marcus Whittington

Bath Boutique Stays www.bathboutiquestays.co.uk What do you do?

We rescue Bath listed properties at risk of decline and refurbish sensitively into beautiful boutique styled short term lets for the city’s visitors.

What makes you unique and interesting?

We show the city to our guests from a local’s perspective.

Promoting Bath’s best independent businesses and experiences to create lasting memories, combined with a luxurious stay at very competitive rates against the city’s expensive hotels.

How long did it take to get your signature style how would you describe it?

Our style is ever evolving.

We consider our properties stylish and embrace tactile finishes and touches but equally do not try to be too ‘trendy’ as that can date quickly. We adore bespoke lighting against the incredible existing Georgian architectural details our rooms hold...

What’s hot for 2017?

Our wonderful new Bath Boutique Stays HQ and most adventurous project to date: restoring a beautiful large townhouse Mr Darcy’s Abode.

A sumptuous chic 18th century five storey townhouse with lots of surprises, furnished by Bath businesses, it’s open for 2017 priority reservations now.

a d v e r ti s i n g feat u r e W E D D I N G S

Ellie rose & Ollie Butler

Ellie Rose Bridal 01225 443988 www.ellierosebridal.co.uk

What makes you unique and interesting?

Ellie Rose Bridal brings exclusive bridal designs from NYC paired with personal bridal experience to everyone.

If you were getting married soon, what would you do?

As it happens we got recently engaged! And I can honestly say choosing a dress is hard as there are so many gorgeous dresses out there. What I would do is, stay true to myself and choose a dress that’s a little bit different and also shows my personality.

What’s the best bit of advice you could give a couple?

Enjoy every moment of the day... before you know it, it has come and gone, and you want it to be memorable. Try not to get caught up in the stress of planning, enjoy the experience and make it your own.

How and why did you get involved in the wedding industry?

I’ve always loved the fashion industry and have been attending different fashion events for years. The TV show Say Yes to the Dress planted the bridal seed and it just sort of grew. I knew this was what I wanted to do and knocked on a lot of doors to try and get a foot in. Once in, I instantly knew that there was no other business I wanted to be in.

What’s hot for 2017?

Having seen the Hayley Paige spring 2017 catwalk show in New York, Sleeves and Sparkle are heavily featured in the new designs. Stripes are also really in right now!

Jill Jeffries Florist 07977 201067 www.jilljeffries.com

What is it you love about working on weddings?

Meeting the couple and really getting to the bottom of their taste and style, filling them with confidence that the flowers will set the scene for their special day. Then finally putting everything together and greeting the excited bride with her chosen bouquet.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

Roughly 12 months to book the date but it’s not worth making real decisions until the dresses are all taken care of.

What is it you do that makes you different to your competitors?

I have many years of experience and offer a really bespoke personal service with a huge collection of props and vases.

What’s the best bit of advice you could give the couple?

Chill out, enjoy the planning and your special day. Choose a venue and suppliers that you have confidence in and love every minute of it.

How and why did you get involved in the wedding industry?

My love of flowers and art led me to floristry. After all these years, despite the early mornings and cold working conditions – I am still as passionate about it now as I ever was.

What’s hot for 2017?

Coppers, golds and brass.

British flowers. Natural and just picked. Dahlias, peonies and David Austin roses.

Gypsophila on its own.

Amie Brown

Nickie portman

Frontlinestyle Bath 01225 478478 www.frontlinestyle.co.uk

When did you work on your first wedding? How did it go?

A long time ago, maybe 16 years ago. It went well, the great thing with wedding hair is that you do get to practice the bridal style before the big day, which is essential.

What is it you love about working on weddings?

It’s great being part of someone’s special day, even though I’m there to do the hair, I normally get involved with other elements of the wedding, be it helping with the dress or calming the mother of the bride.

What makes you unique and interesting?

I ensure I listen to what the client wants and from there, take the stress away from them by being organised and efficient. Nothing is too much trouble. From a hair point of view, my creations are natural, wearable and romantic.

What’s a typical cost, and how can we save a little?

All quotes are personalised for each individual bridal party so it really depends on how many people you have and your requirements. Many people like to have their hair done within a salon environment rather than in their own home or wedding venue as not only can everything be done under one roof but it also saves on any travel or out of salon costs.

What makes you different to your competitors?

We offer hair and beauty under one roof, either in salon or at a location of your choice, so all of your pre wedding beauty requirements can be seen to.

This includes waxing, facials, slimming, tanning and nails.

Jewellery Designer np@nickieportman.co.uk www.nickieportman.co.uk Do you ever tear up at a wedding?

I do feel very touched when I see a photograph of a bride wearing one of my pieces.

What is it you do that makes you different to your competitors?

The collections are special as they are made by highly skilled makers by hand using real pearls and Swarovski crystals.

The jewellery pieces have their own individual signature.

How long did it take to get your signature style and how would you describe it?

The bridal collection came about through customers buying pearl necklaces from my Timeless collection to wear as bridal jewellery. I could see a niche for a larger selection of exquisite bridal jewellery.

Do you have bridesmaid jewellery?

We do have bridesmaid jewellery. The freshwater pearl bracelets are simple and add the finishing touch. Many other pieces in the collection could be worn by bridesmaids or the mother of the bride.

Who inspires your collection?

I often have Audrey Hepburn and Chanel inspired features.

Modern and classic twists thread through the bridal range.

Are you working on new pieces at the moment?

We are currently designing a beautiful range of lace chokers, with pearls and crystals. We are also launching beautiful ornamental head pieces and tiaras.

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W E D D I N G S advertisi n g feat u re

Alison Miles Alison Miles Couture 01225 336805 www.alisonmiles.com

When did you work on your first wedding? How did it go?

I made the first wedding gown under my own label in 1985 – and I’m delighted to say they are still happily married!

What is it you love about working on weddings?

Every wedding is unique, which keeps the ideas fresh.

I love meeting new brides and hearing their ideas, which I then interpret and build on to create a fabulous dress.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

Six to eight months is perfect.

I have created dresses in two weeks but that does make for a lot of pressure!

Tell us a bit about one incredibly original or fun wedding, you’ve been involved with.

I loved working on a Sound of Music inspired wedding recently, with a beautiful 1950s style wedding gown. I found the perfect silk damask, which looked like curtain fabric, for the bridesmaids dresses and I had fabric printed with the sheet music for the back of a waistcoat. The wedding was at Bath Abbey and the music was sensational!

What’s hot for 2017?

Rose gold, romantic, natural and wild influences. Vintage is still strong. Anything that incorporates personal details.

Luxurious textures. Shades of neutrals are still popular for bridesmaids. I’m using influences from 1920s/1930s for my gowns in 2017, and Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly are constant inspirations.

Krystle Herbert Worgan

Krystle Brides 01225 446844 www.krystlebrides.co.uk What makes you unique and interesting?

We pride ourselves on our customer service. We have a relaxed and friendly approach when helping our brides and can offer in house alterations with a dress fitter and seamstress based on site. We also offer an aftercare service where we can arrange for your dress to be dry cleaned and boxed after your big day.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

It’s sensible to start looking for your dream dress about a year in advance. With the delivery time on most gowns around six months, and alterations around six to eight weeks, it’s certainly never too soon to set things in motion. With a year to go, you know you’ll be choosing from current collections and can take your time without any pressure.

What’s the biggest mistake brides can make when wedding shopping?

We think it’s not being open minded to the idea of trying dress styles and shapes that may not necessarily appeal on the hanger. During the initial stages we ask brides to select some dresses they’re drawn to, but once we get a sense of her style, personality, wedding day and body type, we love to recommend dresses for consideration. We think it’s important to embrace trying a really good variety of gowns as we find some brides are surprised by what they end up loving.

114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lindsay hughes

Bath Vintage Hire 07854368541 www.bathvintagehire.co.uk What makes you unique and interesting?

Our collection has taken years to build up and its definitely work in progress, blood, sweat and tears goes into hunting down and finding the ‘right’ chair or an original piece of vintage furniture. For us there is no second best in our items.

How long before the big day should clients get in touch with you?

We get booked up pretty early but I always try and fit last minute bookings in. I love spontaneity, and appreciate that many couples may need and want to get married quickly so will always do my best to accommodate.

How long did to get to your signature style, and how would you describe it?

I would describe our style as rustic chic with a vintage edge. Our style is our passion so we don’t really have to ‘work’ at it. My husband has been restoring old furniture and collecting weird and wonderful objects for over 20 years, our business seemed to be the natural progression from this.

How and why did you get involved in the wedding industry?

The business developed very quickly. I decided I would develop the creative side of the business whilst my husband continued to go to the auctions and flea markets. With my background in the visual arts and business and my husband’s years of experience of collecting and restoration, the rest is history...

Carina Baverstock & Lucy HaywardRodgers Carina Baverstock Couture 01225 866610 www.carinabcouture.com

What makes you unique and interesting?

We have a huge and far reaching reputation as being a bride’s ‘go to’ destination boutique from the moment she says ‘yes’! This is due to our high-quality and extremely unique gowns, designed and made by leading British designers. These designers dress royalty as well as many famous, discerning celebrities.

We have won a national award twice for being the Best Bridal Retailer in the country.

What makes you different to your competitors?

In a word – service! We hear from brides time and time again that no other boutique has given them the time, expertise or even interest in their wedding as we do. Carina, who is involved in all our boutique consultations, has been in the fashion industry all her life, so dressing and styling brides is second nature to her. Whilst Lucy, who runs the consultations with Carina, will ensure the romance of the gown is never overlooked.

How would you describe your signature style?

We both feel we have an innate sense of style! We have a deep passion for the glamour and luxurious fabrics of bygone eras, fused with new fresh ideas of fashion. Both ballet and theatre influence the cut and movement of our gowns along with the blending of textures, all of which ensure that a Carina Baverstock Couture bride is always fabulous and more importantly, memorable!

Luxury mobile toilet trailers for weddings and all special events

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For all enquiries please call us on 01225 920884 www.flowersofbath.co.uk

01225 312 151 ▼ bathloos@sky.com www.bathluxurytoilethire.co.uk

EMILY COLES photography

Emily Coles Photography www.emilycolesphoto.com Emily specialises in interior and lifestyle photography, capturing the individual character of each space.

Get in touch for a a quote, for residential or commercial spaces.

Rates are based on a £30 hourly rate, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, even to just to discuss.

H E A LT H & WELLBEING

From sunny yoga retreats to upbeat Zumba, discover how to clear your mind and cleanse your body in 2017, with help from Bath’s experts, of course…

By E V E LY N GR E E N

T

o put it simply, nutritious eating and plenty of exercise are the best ways to improve our health, but if it were that easy, we’d all be at the peak of physical fitness. Sometimes we could do with a helping hand, a change of pace, or something a little less conventional. So we meet with local health heroes in and around Bath who give us their best tips on how to shift stubborn Christmas weight, how to shoot our energy levels through the roof, and how to generally feel better about ourselves. From doing yoga in our beds, to trying courses on understanding your personality, read on to discover the varied and diverse recommendations from Bath’s wellness professionals.

116 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

H E A LT H & WELLBEING

MINDFULNESS

From meditation and eating-for-calm classes, to lessons on how to achieve the most restful sleep of your life, the 2017 Beyond Mindfulness yearlong course at Combe Grove is a holistic approach for ‘a balanced and fulfilling life’. Run by clinical psychologist and author Linda Blair, there will be one session per month throughout the year which people can pick and choose from, each with a different aim. Some classes will be geared towards fitness, while others will contemplate such aspects as discovering how to overcome stress, how to understand your personality, how your position in your family has affected you, and even how to psychologically declutter.

Aside from theses classes, there’s a spa, gym, and leisure and sports club at the venue on the edge of Bath offering a range of fitness facilities and classes alongside luxurious spa offerings.

Linda’s advice: “We don’t mean to overlook our own wellbeing, but it’s all too easy because life is so busy. Focusing on one thing at a time, and enjoying the here and now, is the best way to live.”

Brassknocker Hill, Bath; www.combegrove.com

HOLISTIC THERAPY

The holistic centre Yoga Bodhi aims to use yoga as therapy to help treat various injuries and illnesses, plus as a gentle exercise for pre and postnatal mothers. Just before owner Simona Hernandez started practising yoga, she worked long hours as a psychologist. Introducing the activity into her life made her slow down, understand when she was stressed and gave her the toolkit to deal with everyday challenges.

Simona says: “Most of the time, we think about health as something that involves the muscles and the body. This is true, but what about emotional health? Yoga brings together the mind, body and breath so they function together, and as a result we get a sense of calm and inner stillness.”

Studio 1, 8a Bartlett Street, Bath; www.yogabodhi.co.uk

WELLNESS

Many of us are just ‘surviving’ rather than ‘thriving’, reckons Well Bath’s co-owner, Paul Wilby. To fully thrive, he believes we must not only eliminate stressors but also ‘actively seek joyful, loving lives’. Well Bath’s process is bespoke and they work out a plan for each individual.

This could include yoga, Pilates, tai chi, qi gong, acupuncture, Rolfing (manipulation of connective tissues), massage, reflexology, as well as strength and conditioning.

“Our therapists can help you get well; our practitioners can show you how to be well; and our trainers can help you do well,” says Paul. “I’ve seen thousands of people metamorphose into the person they always secretly hoped they would be.”

Paul suggests to: “Spend time imagining how you will feel when you get there and what you will do with this amazing new you.

Woolley Lane, Charlcombe, Bath; www.wellbath.co.uk

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H E A LT H & WELLBEING LUXURY

Take time for yourself at Lucknam Park Hotel’s The Spa, which is set within the estate’s 500acres of unspoilt parkland. It has eight state-ofthe-art therapy rooms, rejuvenating and bespoke treatments, hydrotherapy pools, five thermal cabins and a relaxation room in which to enjoy an all-round ‘experience’. In addition to the cocooned and sumptuous ambience of The Spa, Lucknam also offers leisure activities, both energetic and relaxing, on and off the hotel estate. You’ll find everything from bicycles, horses and running trails, to tennis courts, cookery classes, falconry and duck herding available on site.

Colerne, Wiltshire; www.lucknampark.co.uk

DEDICATED TO NEW MUMS

Specialising in pre and postnatal care, Baby & Me Pilates centres around personal training for new mothers. Owner Laura Louise Thomas decided to design the class as a relaxed yet focused approach to ease women back into structured exercise after birth. Each class involves a series of controlled movements intended to help women improve posture and core strength and ease tension.

Laura’s motivational tip: “Everyone has the opportunity for optimal health and wellbeing, you only need to connect your mind and body in order to activate this innate healing potential. Whatever you want in life is within reach. Often the advice we dish out to others is the very same advice we need to hear ourselves.”

The Dojo, Stillpoint, The Stoneyard, Old Orchard, Bath; www.lauralouisethomas.com

ZUMBA

Jessica Davies has been teaching Zumba – the energetic dance-based class – and other fitness courses in and around Bath for the past decade. you’ll find her hosting lessons everywhere from The Oriel Hall in Larkhall, to Odd Down playing fields.

Jessica says: “You don’t need to be a dancer, or have any dancing experience to take part, just the

ability to move it and shake it. Zumba is all about having fun and that’s why it’s a great workout. Get fit, burn calories, while having a smile on your face.”

Twitter @jessdavies1986

HOLIDAY RETREATS

With workshops, destination retreats and oneon-one sessions to choose from, everyone, no matter their abilities, can practise yoga, reckons Sentia Yoga owner Sarah Robinson. She’s been a student of yoga for the last 26 years, and five years ago she decided to do something with her experience and set up her own practice. Now she teaches all over Bath in venues such as Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, to Temple of Minerva in the Botanical Gardens, and organises retreats to the likes of the Almeria Coast in Spain. “Restore body and mind with a little help from the warmth of the Spanish sun, abundant healthy food, peaceful surroundings and yoga,” she says. “Each morning will start with meditation practice, two daily yoga classes, as well as workshops on goal-setting.”

Sarah’s top tips: “Do yoga in bed – the easier it is to take up a new healthy habit, the more likely you are to continue; and be patient and accepting with yourself.” www.sentiayoga.com

BESPOKE TRAINING

Dave Wilby, Team Breakthrough’s CEO, is the first to admit that gyms can be scary, but he believes if we don’t take the first step, there will always be a reason to delay. To make a successful breakthrough, his advice is to take control now and make yourself a top priority. He launched Team Breakthrough in 2003 with the aim of setting a new benchmark for quality personal and group training and physical therapy in the South West.

Dave’s motivational advice: “Don’t try to change everything at once, if it feels overwhelming then the chances are that it will be unsustainable.

Pick one thing per week to focus on.”

Unit 2, The Ley Business Park, The Ley, Box; www.teambreakthrough.co.uk w 118 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Above: relax at the spa pool at Lucknam Park’s; below: Amelia Rolfe, owner of Bath women-only gym, Moovit

RESTORE

BODY AND MIND WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM THE

WARMTH OF THE SPANISH SUN, ABUNDANT HEALTHY FOOD, PEACEFUL SURROUNDINGS AND YOGA

H E A LT H & WELLBEING WOMEN-ONLY BOOTCAMP

Specialising in women-only personal training and fitness classes such as yoga and kettlebell training, Moovit also offer pre and postnatal training, and nutrition advice and owner Amelia Rolfe has recently added yoga and bootcamp group classes.

Amelia’s top tips: “Set small, achievable, realistic goals – not one huge goal. So, instead of saying ‘I want flat abs’, say ‘today I want to hold the plank for 10 seconds longer than yesterday’. Also, sleep – it’s just as important as exercise; buy an outfit in your goal size as a reminder; and focus on body measurements, not the scales.”

Highridge House, Granville Road, Bath; www.moo-vit.fitness

FULL BODY MOT

At HEALTH’s private personal training studio behind the Royal Crescent, a team of trainers and nutritional therapists work closely with individuals who want to achieve transformative changes to their health and body shape. It was set up by sports scientist Rob Suchet, and the LEaN (lifestyle, exercise and nutrition) system – a 12-week system which is tailored to each client’s specific requirements – is followed to help people achieve maximum lasting results. “The body conforms to what the mind believes,” he says. “Believe that you can truly become the person you deserve to be.

Visualise yourself in the way you want to look and behaving in ways that this new, better version of yourself would behave.”

Rob’s recommendation: “Put it in your diary, tell your friends and family what you’re doing, have a frank conversation with yourself in the mirror and then get on with it.”

23 Crescent Lane, Bath; www.health-bath.co.uk

WOMEN WHO LIFT

As the business name suggests, Bath Yummy Mummies’ fitness classes are exclusively for women and focus on strength training, fat loss and pre and post natal personal and group training. It was created five years ago when owner Claire Watson was pregnant with her second child. She loved

Above: a yoga class at Lucknam Park; below: whether it’s your aim to get fit or just relax more, Combe Grove can help

how weight training made her feel confident and strong, both physically and mentally, and she wanted to inspire others to feel the same.

“Strength training has always been considered something that men do, but because of the amazing effects, it has become increasingly popular with ladies,” she says. “It creates a strong and lean base which can prevent injury, increase metabolism, boost your immune system and make you feel amazing.”

Claire suggests to: “Throw out any food in the house that you know is bad for you.

A quick trick to boost your metabolism is to add a sprinkle of chilli to your meals.”

Hillcroft, Lansdown Road, Bath; www.bathyummymummies.co.uk

ELECTRIC DREAMS

Power-boosted eBikes are key to fitness, according to Lyle Finlay, managing director of John’s Bikes in Bath. These bikes are battery assisted, which means you have to pedal to have the motor kick in. “The rider chooses how much help they want, so if you are new or returning to cycling, or facing a steep hill, you simply dial up the power,” says Lyle. “Or if you want to increase fitness, then lower the assistance the motor provides. The batteries can take you 75 miles or more and recharge in a few hours.”

82-84 Walcot Street, Bath; www.johnsbikes.co.uk 120 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN TRULY BECOME THE PERSON YOU DESERVE TO BE.

VISUALISE YOURSELF IN THE WAY YOU WANT TO LOOK

The Heroes of Health #Heroesofhealth #HeroDay Your Health & Wellbeing Team for Bath and in Cities & Towns across the UK – with Wellbeing Conferences, Day Retreats, Video Production & Health Directory Meet our Bath team Wellbeing Retreat Day A day of tasters, workshops, treatments and fitness classes all for an affordable price.

Select your health hero package – from all day fitness package for £5 up to unlimited health classes & workshops for £20 Join us for the most wonderful day of health and wellness at the All Saints Community Centre in Weston, Bath.

Saturday February 25th 2017.

Tickets available via our website www.worldhealthheroesuk.com

Owen of Owen Morgan Massage Therapy Sarah of Mariposa Coaching Erika of Erika Hayward Physiotherapy Daniel of Daniel Kronenberg Clinical Hypnotherapist Clare of Cleanse by Clare (Nutrition) Hayley of DAY Bath (Dance & Yoga) Tom of VO2 Fitness Bath Margo of Bath Pilates Academy Alison of Alison Heather Sutton Coaching Heidi of Heidi Reiki Beverley of Beverley Harper (CBT) Hannah Lees of Hannah The Runner Louise Bennett of BodyBennettfit Personal Training Sarah of Lillywhite Health & Fitness The Team at Quiz Fitness

www.worldhealthheroesuk.com World_H_Heroes

@WorldHealthHeroes

WORLD_HEALTH_HEROES

team breakthrough health and performance

Mon 10am 7pm

Tues 1pm 6pm back health 7pm

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Unit 2, The Ley Business Park Box, Wiltshire SN13 8EH enquires@teambreakthrough.co.uk Tel: 01225 743 801 www.teambreakthrough.co.uk

a d v ertisi n g feature h e a lt h a n d f i t n e s s

Yoga: the Path to Holistic Wellbeing

Meet the qualified and experienced yoga teachers of the Bath Iyengar Yoga Centre

I

yengar® yoga is second to none in offering a firm foundation of health and well-being. The centre in Bath has a solid reputation for offering high quality yoga teaching in the heart of the city, to pupils from home and abroad. All those offering classes at the centre are fully qualified certified Iyengar® yoga teachers each with their own unique talents.

Richard Agar Ward Richard is a direct pupil of Yogacharya BKS Iyengar and a senior level 3 teacher. Having taught continuously for 40 years, he is one of the most experienced teachers in the country and regularly studies in India and teaches internationally most recently in China. Richard teaches advanced classes at the centre and also leads the yoga therapy class, along with Kirsten and Lois.

Lois Shilton Mother-of-three Lois has found regular practice of Iyengar yoga has improved her health and general well being, including helping her cope with a busy family life. She is Intermediate Junior level 3 certified and teaches beginners and improvers on Thursday evenings and intermediates on Friday mornings.

Zoe Hope Former textile designer Zoe has practised Iyengar Yoga for almost 20 years and regularly studies in India. She is also interested in Ayurveda. For Zoe, yoga offers support, nourishment and great joy as well as balance and connectivity. She teaches a popular Wednesday morning mixed ability class

Kirsten Agar Ward

Dr Gabriele Kociok-Kohn

Harriet St Leger Bristol-based jewellery designer and maker Harriet finds yoga the perfect antidote to many hours of sitting involved in her work and understands how beneficial it is for all doing desk work. She offers a Monday evening beginners class.

Dr Gabriele Kociok-Kohn Gabriele started yoga in 1993 to improve her ice skating, and now finds yoga essential in her life.

She works at the university and enthusiastically spreads the message of yoga to colleagues helping them discover the benefits it can bring to their day-to-day lives. Gabriele is just back from a study month at the Iyengar Institute in Pune, India. She teaches a later evening beginners class.

Jess Wallwork Intermediate Junior 3 teacher Jess has also studied at the Pune Institute. She first practised yoga as a child which helped her relieve and correct her spine after falling from a tree. Yoga keeps Jess healthy and balanced and she passes the benefit of yoga to students. She teaches the Monday morning mixed ability class.

Kirsten Agar Ward Kirsten is recently returned from a year teaching by invitation in Bermuda She is a senior level 3 teacher with 20 years’ yoga teaching experience and many trips to study in Pune.

Kirsten teaches Improvers on Tuesday evenings and Intermediates Wednesday mornings and evenings. She also teaches foundation courses for those new to yoga.

XX I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Lois Shilton

Start yoga

Foundation Courses Monday mornings 16 January – 6 February Monday evenings 16 January – 6 February Thursday evenings 12 January – 2 February

Continue yoga

See our website for the full timetable *25% concession for Under 25's

BATH IYENGAR YOGA CENTRE

14 Charlotte Street, BA1 2JP 01225 319699 office@bath-iyengar-yoga.com www.bath-iyengar-yoga.com

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T R A N S P O R T A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

RIDE THE EASY WAY, THE ELECTRIC WAY Electrically boosted eBikes will help pave the way to seeing you going further, faster and arriving fresher

M

any of us dream about leaving the car at home and cycling to work, or just around Bath on our daily errands – an antidote to Bath’s increasing congestion, parking scarcity and expense.

However, for most, the thought of arriving hot, sticky and tired rules it out, but there is another way – battery powered motorised eBikes.

Experts at Bath’s oldest cycle shop, John’s Bikes, explains, “There’s been a huge rise in popularity in eBikes – bicycles with an electric motor to give you a feeling like you’re almost always riding downhill.”

SIMPLE TO USE

Charge up, get on, pedal, and immediately the motor kicks in. With every pedal stroke the motor automatically gives you a boost, whilst still maintaining the ‘riding a bike’ experience. So

effortless, you'll instantly feel like Chris Hoy! So, whether you want to keep up with friends and family on recreational cycles, arrive less hot and bothered running errands around Bath, or want a new way to commute, eBikes give you the ability to go further, faster and arrive fresher.

The Whyte Clifton – just one of many eBikes at John's Bikes

Key features ● Motor can push bike to 15-16mph ● Range of up to 75 miles ● Backed by motor warranties ● Fully recharged in just a few hours Demo fleet and 48 hour test rides are available at John’s Bikes, Walcot Street, Bath, with access to a range of over 80 bikes including city, mountain and other eBikes – why not give one a go?

Open Monday - Saturday, and until 7pm Thursdays, the team of cycling experts will help you electrify your commute.

John’s Bikes 82-84 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD 01225 581666 www.johnsbikes.co.uk

Students receive 20% off e ve Mon & Tu ry es

With Jess

Monday

The Oriel Hall - Larkhall 9.30-10.15am

Wednesday

St Marks School - Larkhall 6.30-7.15pm

Thursday

Scala - Moorland Road 7.00-7.45pm Free taster session 5 January 2017

No da n exper ce ience neede d!

For more information, please call Jess on 07752173903 or email jess.harding-wyatt@live.co.uk

Appointments and walk-ins welcome 13A WESTGATE BUILDINGS, BATH BA1 1EB TEL: 01225 335511 Opening times: Monday - Saturday 9am - 6pm

DOCTOR-LED COSMETIC MEDICAL CLINIC

Intense Pulsed Light for Permanent Hair Reduction Stretch Mark and Scar Reduction Acne Treatments Fractional Laser Resurfacing Photorejuvenation to reduce Facial Redness and Rosacea Agera Skin Peels and Microdermabrasion Dermal Fillers Mole and Skin Tag Removal Leg Thread Vein Treatment Anti- wrinkle Injections Dermafrac Micro-Needling

AMPLE FREE PARKING

10% DISCOU N WITH TH T* I ADVERT S *Until 31

DOCTOR-LED CLINIC

/01/17

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The Halo Clinic at Hathaway Medical Centre, Middlefield Road, Chippenham SN14 6GT www.thehaloclinic.co.uk • info@thehaloclinic.co.uk • 01249 454545

Why YOU should be part of the BYM Ladies Only Training Studio...

A Personal Training Service in the heart of Bath and Bristol: Mobile or in any "Better" gym in B&NES

Rugby Coaching

F R E E

Challenging. Fun. Effective.

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With over six years experience, whether you are looking to maintain a certain level of fitness or to achieve a complete body overhaul, we'll be with you every step of the way!

Personal Training

S E S S I O N @OllieHayesPT @OllieHayesMobilePT Charlotte Gray lost 6 inches and completely changed body shape after training at BYM over 12 months

BYM Personal Training We guarantee that when you personal train at BYM you will be pushed and guided to meet your goals.

With so many client success stories under our belts you can be sure that we have the experience, knowledge and skills needed to get you where you want to be.

BYM Group Training Monday 9.30am Body Sculpt | 2.00pm HIIT Tuesday 9.30am BYM Bootcamp Wednesday 9.30am Strength | 12.00pm Punch & Squat Thursday 9.30am Body Sculpt | 6.30pm Disco HIIT Friday 9.30am HIIT

EXCLUSIVELY LADIES ONLY

tel: 07789 712405 claire@bathyummymummies.co.uk www.bathyummymummies.co.uk

HAIRDRESSING

HAIRDRESSING OUTSIDE THE LINES! At B Hairdressing we believe in breaking rules and pushing boundaries - anything goes!

“

We take pride in every client onal experience, making every visit pers hair ate ultim the you g to you givin experience in Bath!

”

LOVE ANIMALS?

So do we... All of the hair products we sell are cruelty free.

Call 01225 311332 to make an appointment bookings@bhairdressing.co.uk

WWW.BHAIRDRESSING.CO.UK

H E A LT H D I R E C T O RY

DIRECTORY

Looking to change and improve your life in 2017? The following businesses are poised to help

Beauty

Green Street House 14 Green Street, Bath 01225 426000 www.greenstreethouse.co.uk Day spa and retreat in the heart of the city KI Nails and Beauty 13A Westgate Buildings, Bath 01225 335511 Newly opened nail and beauty salon in centre of Bath

Dentists

Bath Spa Dentistry 19 James Street West, Bath 01225 46434 www.bathspadentistry.com Established since 2003, this is one of the centres for advanced implant and restorative dentistry in the UK and is committed to the highest standards in treatment and patient care Edgar Buildings Dental Practice 7 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath; 01225 466086 www.smileofconfidence.com

Centre of dental excellence specialising in cosmetic, orthodontic and restorative dentistry

Hairdressers

B Hairdressing 11 Claverton Buildings, Widcombe, Bath 01225 311332 www.bhairdressing.co.uk Personalised service offering the ultimate client experience Fine and Dandy 4 Prior Park, Widcombe, Bath 01225 461848 www.fineanddandybarbers.com Traditional gentlemen’s barbers Frontline Style 4-5 Monmouth Street, Bath 01225 478478 www.frontlinestyle.co.uk Hair and beauty services in the heart of Bath Phylosophie Hair Salon 16 Northumberland Place, Bath 01225 484952 www.hairdressersinbath.co.uk

Try a workshop or sunny destination retreat with Bath’s Sentia Yoga; www.sentiayoga.com

Dedicated to providing a truly bespoke hairdressing service to the discerning guest

Health, wellbeing and medical

Allergy Testing Clarion Health, Henry Street, Bath; 01225 448348 www.allergytest.co.uk Testing for a range of allergies or disorders BMI Bath Clinic Claverton Down Road, Bath 01225 835555 Private hospital with 67 beds, two major theatres, one minor theatre and a dedicated endoscopy unit.

Available for both NHS-funded patients, and private patients Circle Healthcare Foxcote Avenue, Peasedown St. John, Bath 01761 422222 www.circlehealth.co.uk Private hospital, part of Europe’s largest healthcare partnership Halo Clinic Hathaway Medical Centre, Middlefield Road, Chippenham 01249 454545 www.thehaloclinic.co.uk Hair removal, vein removal and non-surgical beauty treatments The Recovery Studio The Practice rooms, 26 Upper Borough Walls, Bath 07843 643112 www.therecoverystudio.co.uk Advanced remedial sports massage and soft tissue therapy Snowberry Lane Ridgway House, 49 Shurnhold, Melksham SN12 8DF 01225 700072 www.snowberrylane.co.uk Leading health and beauty cosmetics provider specialising in minimally invasive procedures and radio surgery

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Nutrition and diet The Juice Collective www.thejuicecollective.co.uk Producers of coldpress, handmade, organic raw juice

Riverford Organic Farms 01225 722387; www.riverford.co.uk Weekly grocery orders from award-winning online organic farm shop and box scheme

Personal trainers, gyms and health and fitness clubs and classes Bath Pilates Academy 07939 994757 www.bathpilatesacademy.uk Increase your flexibility, muscle tone, joint mobility, balance and improve your posture. Take time out to relax and renew your essential energies Bath Yummy Mummies 07789 712405 www.bathyummymummies. co.uk Pre and post-natal strength training, weight loss and wellbeing experts Combe Grove Manor Brassknocker Hill, Bath, 01225 834644 www.combegrove.com Club & spa located near Bath Health 23 Crescent Lane, Bath, BA1 2PX 01225 465111 www.health-bath.co.uk Help you achieve optimal health and fitness through a scientific, individualised approach Jane Braham 01225 852634 www.aero-tone-ilates.com www.walkingfitclub.com Aerobics, toning, pilates and Nordic walking classes

H E A LT H D I R E C T O RY John’s Bikes 84 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 581666 www.johnsbikes.co.uk Independent store run by keen cyclists, selling bikes, clothing, kit and tools for all abilities Monkton Leisure Monkton Combe School, Monkton Combe 01225 721116 www.monktoncombeschool.com Sports club with facilities including a 25-metre swimming pool and state-of-the-art gym equipment Moovit Ameliarolfe.pt@gmail.com www.moo-vit.fitness Bath-based women-only gym offering a unique, inspiring and addictive way to train Ollie Hayes Mobile PT 07873 806602 www.olliehayespt.com Former professional rugby union player offering mobile personal trainer service Team Bath Sports Training Village, University of Bath, Claverton Down; 01225 386339 www.teambath.com Fully-equipped gym and wide range of sports classes and facilities in world-class sports training village Team Breakthrough Unit 2, The Ley Business Park, Box; 01225 743801 www.teambreakthrough.co.uk Pioneering health and performance centre with a wide

State-of-the-art gym equipment at Team Breakthrough in Box

range of individual and team programmes from personal training to yoga Zumba with Jessica Davies 07752 173903 www.zumba.com New weekly Zumba classes in Larkhall and Oldfield Park, Bath

Spas

Bowood House Spa Derry Hill, Calne, Wiltshire 01249 822228 www.bowood.org/spa Luxury spa in stunning Wiltshire countryside

Bath’s women-only gym Moovit offers bespoke personal training

The Gainsborough Bath Spa Beau Street, Bath; 01225 358888 www.thegainsboroughbathspa. co.uk Luxury Spa Village in an exclusive hotel Lucknam Park Spa Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa,

Yoga

Colerne, near Chippenham 01225 742777; www.lucknampark.co.uk A uxury spa in a country house hotel setting McDonald Bath Spa Hotel Sydney Road, Bath; 01225 444424 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk State-of-the-art spa with outside hydro therapy pool Royal Crescent Spa 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk Unique Georgian setting in the heart of Bath, focusing on the natural elements of earth, air, fire and water Thermae Bath Spa The Hetling Pump Room, Hot Bath Street, Bath; 01225 331234 www.thermaebathspa.com Britain’ s only natural thermal spa, offers traditional and topquality facilities

Bath Iyengar Yoga 14 Charlotte Street, Bath 01225 319699 www.bath-iyengar-yoga.com Bath’s original yoga studio, offering three dedicated yoga studios The Bath Yoga Studio Norfolk Buildings, James Street West, Bath; 01225 313153 www.bathyogastudio.com Bath’s only hot yoga studio Yoga Bodhi 8 Bartlett Street, Bath 01225 464848 www.yogabodhi.co.uk A warm, quiet and light dedicated yoga space in the heart of Bath. Classes and special events are run from here as well as guest teacher workshops.

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E V E T E R I N A RY C A R E

PAWS FOR THOUGHT When it comes to welcoming a new pet into your family, BATH VET GROUP can help with both the short term decisions and the long term planning

G

etting a new puppy or kitten is an exciting time for all and approximately 46 per cent of the British households have a pet – that is an estimated 12 million people. Puppies and kittens are reportedly the most popular household pets.

Although it is great fun getting a new pet it is important to gain as much reliable information as possible in advance. Various aspects should be considered including “is this breed of puppy or kitten right for me and my household?” All too often people purchase a puppy or kitten on the basis of the animal's appearance and do not always consider all other aspects of that animal such as: ● Exercise requirements; ● Temperament; ● Suitability for your family life; ● Costs of preventative veterinary treatment and emergency care (or medical insurance) and ● Time requirements.

One thing to remember is that puppies can take weeks or even months to become fully house trained. This requires time, patience and perseverance from the owners, who will often need to sacrifice sleep and household items (puppies can chew). You may even need to adapt your house to aid puppy training. Kittens may also require their owners to adapt their house to make it safe for an inquisitive kitten who is keen to explore.

If you are thinking of getting a new family member, in the form of a puppy or kitten, and would like to know more in advance about, which breed might be best suited to you, what to expect from your new arrival and perhaps sign up for our fun and interactive puppy parties then please contact your local Bath Vet surgery to book a FREE nurse appointment, (available at participating surgeries only).

Owning a puppy or kitten can also be expensive but Bath Vets offer a great money saving Pet Health Club; a plan developed to

provide pets with a gold standard of preventative healthcare at a significant saving which also allows you to spread payments over the year.

This plan covers annual vaccinations, flea and worming control, discounts on food and regular health checks which all help to keep your new family member in the best possible health.

If you're new to Bath Vet Group, or you are an existing client but have a new pet, your first consultation is on us – it's FREE to bring your new arrival in to meet the whole vet team and get used to the surgery where we hope to welcome them regularly for the rest of their life!

Lisa Walters, Veterinary Nurse Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath BA2 5RL 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk

Has your pet fallen behind on its vaccinations?

We’ll get them up to date for HALF PRICE To get your pet fully vaccinated, they’ll need a full course – that’s two separate injections. And until the end of the year, you can get both at Bath Vets for half price.

That’s a SAVING of up to £30 (Normal Cat Course Price £60, Offer price £30 – Normal Dog Course Price £50, Offer price £25.)

Ask for our Vaccination Amnesty offer, available now at all Bath Vets Surgery.

Nobody cares more for your pets than Bath Vets!

Bath Vets 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk Offer valid until the end of March 2017

Microgreens are easy to grow and give an intense hit of flavour from a tiny shoot

growing cold Here’s how to make the most of your garden in the bleaker months‌

Wor d s a nd photo s by E m m a Bon d Microgreens in a repurposed drainpipe

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GARDENING

Above: edible violas provide winter colour and add dash to a dish; below top: this year’s heavy rain has made watering cans a little more redundant; below bottom: time to start sowing winter salads

O

ur allotment has been a joy in 2016, despite the constant attacks by deer, badgers, pigeons and cats. With regular heavy rain, at least we have not had to lug heavy watering cans every day. The sweet peas were flowering until recently and we‘ve had more beans, runner beans and peas than I can quickly blanche and freeze. The sweet tiny turnips were delicious, and there will be more of those sown next year together with purple carrots that were also very tasty.

We had a wonderful crop of Earthwalker sunflowers, beautiful artichokes and piles of sunny Patty Pan squash that I baked in the oven with garlic and breadcrumbs and served with a tomato sauce.

Most of what we grew has now been frozen or made into chutney, the final few sweet peas are filling the kitchen with their scent but the harvest has sadly come to an end.

At this time of year, it is still possible to sow some salad leaves, herbs and edible flowers, and with some protection or in a greenhouse or poly tunnel you can enjoy fresh leaves through the bleaker months, and you certainly don’t even need an allotment or much of a garden to do this.

Think about lamb’s lettuce, oriental leaves, purslane, salad burnet, radicchio, lettuce arctic king and many more. One of my favourite seed suppliers in this area is Pennard Plants in Somerset and you can buy from them online.

Within a month of sowing you could be cutting your own winter salads, all you need is a container about 10cm deep – any kind will do as long it has drainage holes – and fill with a good-quality compost. Sow your seed, remember to label your pots and keep them nearby and cover them with

fleece at night if it looks frosty or particularly cold. A cold frame, nice warm spot on a patio, sunny windowsill, conservatory or greenhouse will all do.

Wooden boxes or polystyrene crates are ideal for growing outdoor salad – you can beg them from your local fishmonger or butcher – make sure there are drainage holes and if you have any old jumpers or blankets, line the base of the container and this helps to retain moisture, as despite the rain it is easy to forget to water things.

I would recommend a good mix of salad leaves that don’t result in one variety crowding out the others, which I find often happens. Combine mustard leaves ‘Red Frills’, with mizuna and mibuna, leaf chicory, cress, and lettuces ‘Green Oak Leaf’ and ‘Cocarde’.

Microgreens are always so easy to grow and give an intense hit of flavour from a tiny little shoot. I use a piece of plastic guttering, cut length-ways, bought from a local building supplier, I fill carefully with compost leaving a gap at both ends and lightly sow seed into it, water and wait. I have grown coriander, sorrel, beetroot, spinach, kale, endive and rocket, but any kind of salad will work. They germinate quickly and as you pick them, keep sowing more seed. They taste amazing on top of any salad or as a garnish.

We also grow pea-shoots the same way at home.

Prepare a length of guttering, you can cut it to the exact size of your windowsill, fill with compost and push pea seed (that has soaked for a few hours in some cold water) into the soil. Keep well watered and as soon as you see a shoot appear that is a few centimetres tall, snip off with scissors and eat! The same pea will grow back a few times before it gives up, so again you can be sure of a harvest over winter.

It’s worth being adventurous and thinking about colour as well as taste, so I usually put some tiny violas in the mix as they really spice up a salad with their pretty petals, and remember that herbs will also grow under cover or in your kitchen during the winter, so add in a good mixture of lemon balm, sorrel, chervil, parsley and mint.

Another unusual way to grow your salad is to plant some bulbs in the container. Sink some tulips into a pot and in early spring add in some winter lettuce that has been grown on until ready to plant out. Add some violas and you have a pretty and edible array that will take you through into early summer.

Once you have tried growing these easy salad leaves, herbs and flowers in winter, you will never go back to the plastic bag lurking in the fridge containing a mulch of slimy leaves.

Emma Bond, Bath Garden Design and Landscaping, Orchard Studio, Old Orchard, 88a Walcot Street, Bath; 07968 727415; www.bathgardendesign.com Photos © Emma Bond

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L AW a d v ertisi n g feat u re

Meet the Family Lawyer When it comes to the emotive, sensitive and long-term issues surrounding family law, children and divorce, you need to know the right experts who can assist you through these difficult times

VICTORIA BARNETT

Matthew Drew

What do you specialise in?

I provide advice on all areas of family law, including divorce, separation and arrangements for children.

I strive to add value to my clients’ cases by ensuring all aspects are considered, from personal implications and tax consequences to commercial considerations, eg. where family businesses are involved.

Thrings 01225 340140 www.thrings.com

How has family law changed in the last few years?

It is now compulsory to consider Alternative Dispute Resolution methods such as mediation before issuing proceedings. Even if an agreement is not reached through mediation, the process can narrow the issues between the parties and encourage productive communication.

As someone who has always been passionate about finding practical solutions to disputes, it’s been really pleasing to see a strong shift in this direction within the legal profession.

What’s the best part of your job?

Helping clients get through difficult stages in their lives in the best way possible for them is very rewarding. A big part of it is problem-solving and finding creative solutions to achieving an early resolution.

Goughs Lawyers 01249 712193 www.goughs.co.uk

Victoria Strode

Mogers Drewett Solicitors 01225 750014 www.md-solicitors.co.uk

Sharon MacDonald

What do you specialise in?

My general practice covers divorce, separation, financial settlements and issues relating to children, but I specialise in assisting clients where there is an international element, acting for clients living abroad.

What do you specialise in?

I am a family solicitor, advising on all aspects of divorce/ separation whether that be resolving finances or agreeing arrangements for children.

I also deal with wealth protection eg. pre-nuptial agreements. In addition, I am a trained family mediator which enables me to meet and work with a couple together.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding what you do?

People are always concerned that solicitors will simply complicate matters around divorce and separation, and that they will charge excessive fees. I am here to help people find a solution which works for them and their family in the most cost-effective, proactive, and sensible way that I can.

Although there are cases where sadly court proceedings may be necessary, I always make sure that my clients understand all their options, including collaboration or mediation, to reach the best possible outcome.

How has your area of family law changed in the last few years?

The traditional approach of solicitors battling it out and scoring points should be a thing of the past. I encourage clients to use Collaborative Law, which allows everyone to work together in a constructive approach designed to find solutions both are happy with.

Issuing court proceedings should be the last resort.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love meeting people and helping to solve their problems. The best bit is finishing a case and seeing the client in a much happier place than when they first walked into the office, ready for their next chapter.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Building the team into one of the largest in the South West, comprising ten superb lawyers.

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What advice would you give to anybody considering law as a career?

Get lots of work experience so you know what you’re in for as it’s not like Ally McBeal!

What was your very first job?

I worked at Bristol Airport at check-in/despatch. I take my hat off to anyone who does shift work on a permanent basis as it was a truly gruelling summer.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Working in a collaborative style – whether that’s with a couple in mediation or with the ‘other side’, with the aim of achieving an outcome that enables parties to move on with respect for each other and the ability to communicate without lawyers. This is particularly important where there are children involved.

Royds Withy King 01225 730100 www.roydswithyking.com

What is your favourite part of your job?

Each client is different with different challenges.

I thoroughly enjoy the personal approach – meeting each individual client’s needs and supporting them through a stressful time. I work hard to ensure they have clarity on the law, to properly manage expectations and achieve a fair and reasonable outcome.

Tell us something about yourself?

As I turned 50 this year, my firm gave me a sabbatical and I travelled from the top of Alaska down to Hawaii.

a d v e r tisin g f e at u r e L AW

Sarah Jackson

Head of Family Law, BLB Solicitors 01225 462871 www.blbfamilylaw.co.uk What do you specialise in?

Family law – divorce and financial settlements, from modest assets to lottery winners and millionaires.

What are the challenges?

No two clients ever present with exactly the same facts and the law is always changing, which makes the job a challenge, but never dull. Trying to work out what is a fair outcome can be especially hard where there are children involved and there is not enough money to establish both parents in owned properties.

What is your favourite part of the job?

I love the meticulous task of drafting financial agreements; having to condense complex agreement terms into one concise and unambiguous document makes me happy!

But probably the most rewarding aspect of my practice is family mediation.

It is humbling when a separating couple are able to put their differences aside and work together to reach settlement proposals.

What sort of misconceptions do you commonly encounter?

That instructing a solicitor puts you on an unalterable course to a court battle. With around 95 per cent of my cases being settled through constructive negotiations, this is simply not the case.

Caroline Fell

Head of Family Law and Mediation Team, Stone King 01225 337599 www.stoneking.co.uk What do you specialise in?

I specialise in helping separating couples resolve issues arising from their separation, with the focus on reaching agreements, whether this be through mediation, collaboration or constructive negotiation.

How has your area of family law changed?

There has been a greater emphasis on assisting couples find their own solutions, rather than taking matters through the courts.

I am proud that the family team at Stone King has been at the forefront of this change.

If you had free reign, what law would you introduce?

Couples are increasingly living together rather than marrying. Many cohabitants are unaware that there is no such thing as a common-law spouse, and that their position is unprotected in the event of separation.

I would introduce a law to ensure greater protection was provided.

What was your first job?

Working in the kitchens at a nuclear research facility.

If you weren’t working in the law, where would you be?

Working at a nuclear research facility, whether as head of catering (I love to cook), or harnessing the power of nuclear fusion!

Richard Sharp

MEG MOSS

Mowbray Woodwards 01225 485700 www.mowbraywoodwards.co.uk

Sharp Family Law 01225 448955 www.sharpfamilylaw.com What do you specialise in?

Helping separating and divorcing clients to protect children, preserve assets, and limit the destruction and cost that too-often occurs when relationships breakdown.

What are the misconceptions around what you do?

There can be a belief that divorce must be fought in Court. After 30 years as a family solicitor, I truly believe every divorce is unique. No one process works for every family, including court litigation.

Once I’ve listened to my clients concerns, I help them select the right course for their separation, divorce or family issue. The decisions of divorce profoundly affect the future.

What was your very first job?

In the 1970s I worked as a caretaker’s assistant at the International Anglican School, Jerusalem, Israel

What is your favourite part of the job?

Solving client problems – helping a client go from despair to hope, and from fear to security, so they can move forward with their lives.

What professional accomplishment has made you proudest?

Founding Sharp Family Law, a firm focused on minimising the financial and emotional cost of divorce and supports clients to secure the best outcome for themselves and their families.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping people move on. Many of my clients face a complicated separation, often involving children. It is very rewarding to know that I have enabled my clients to achieve the financial and personal outcome they deserve.

What would your top tip be for someone considering a divorce?

Simply come and talk to us. You will no doubt hear advice from well-meaning friends and family, but come and tell us about your situation so that we can give you the facts, explain your options and set you on the right path.

What was your first job?

I have worked my whole professional life in Bath and know the city really well. I had loads of different jobs as a student, but my favourite was a summer spent as a swimming pool supervisor in a 5-star hotel in the Swiss Alps.

If you weren’t working in the legal world, where would you be?

Playing the violin. It was a close call between law and music, but I’m glad I kept music strictly for fun.

What professional accomplishment has made you proudest?

I was thrilled to be made a partner of a top 100 law firm at the age of 25. I am genuinely proud to be part of a firm with the high standards and caring ethos of Mowbray Woodwards.

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Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US

Where can Bath’s creative industries set up camp?

SPONSORED BY:

CREATIVE BATH AT-A-GLANCE What: Free online and events organisation for creative tech and cultural sector. Major resource to promote and support creative companies, professionals and students in and around Bath Aims: Promote the sector; generate awareness and business; build partnerships; showcase excellence; link students with business and business with students; highlight new job vacancies and projects

Anchor Partners: Anthem Publishing, Storm, The Guild, Mr B & Friends, Parragon, Rocketmakers, Citrus HR, The Agency UK, Ready, SearchStar, Select Science Strategic Partners: Bath Spa Uni, Bath Studio School, Stone King, Epoch Wealth Management, AdLib, Ricoh and the FD Centre Structure, management: Community Interest Company, chaired by Greg Ingham with independent Steering Group.

Development manager Steph Dodd

CREATIVE INDUSTRY

CREATIVITY BOOMS – BUT IS THERE ROOM? Bath is recognised as one of the Top 10 creative cities in the UK, but is there the space for this type of industry to continue its expansion?

Bath’s creative and tech scene is booming, with growth from leading companies and new businesses attracted to the city driving the need for new business premises.

Helping highlight the importance and growth of the sector is the online and events organisation, Creative Bath. It has experienced strong growth itself in recent months with recent new partners ranging from B&NES to Parragon and Select Science.

Its sold-out Property Symposium last month showcased the forthcoming Bath Quays project, which will make muchneeded new commercial space for Bath’s creative and tech companies. But it also highlighted the pressing need, with many successful companies including the fastgrowth wayfinding business Living Map, urgently needing commercial space in the coming months.

“The vision set out for Bath Quays was inspiring,” says Creative Bath’s chairman and co-founder Greg Ingham. “We’re strongly encouraging creative and tech companies

to back it. Bath needs more space – and it needs creative space that the city as well as the sector can be proud of.”

The Symposium was sponsored by workplace design experts Interaction, and also included contributions from B&NES, Bath Quays development contractor TCN, Invest in Bristol and Bath, Knight Frank, Living Map, The Guild and Bath BID. Bath is recognised as one of the Top 10 Creative cities in the UK, and in tandem with Bristol, it is the number two tech city outside of London.

“There are multiple attractions to Bath including quality of talent, two great universities, sheer beauty, a reasonably good city just down the road, quality of life – and a burgeoning creative and tech sector,” continues Greg. “But the pressure on creative workspace and offices is acute.

It’s not helped by office-to-residential conversions and ever-growing student accommodation: fine in itself, but taking up vital real estate in the city. While Bath Quays

provides a solution a few years out, there is a burning need right now for more space.”

Some space may be available short term, with the move of Parragon and its sister company Wild & Wolf to Manvers Street, into premises, which have been under-used for years.

Meantime, Creative Bath has just had its busiest quarter, with a series of business breakfasts; panel and creative sessions ranging from ad-blocking to wine-label designing; and culminating in an extraordinary Creative Bath Inspires… evening with the special effects company behind Star Wars, Sherlock and Doctor Who. Next year the plans are yet bigger, with a public celebration of creativity via the inaugural Creative Bath Awards, which are taking place in Queen Square in June, with headline sponsors, Bath Spa University.

For more: www.creativebath.org Twitter @CreativeBath Email: info@creativebath.org

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BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

JULIA GREENLAND Julia Greenland is the design and showroom manager of Frome-based Shaker & May, who specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke kitchens. Here she talks about her love of singing, David Attenborough and how nature inspires her work...

Where did you grow up?

I lived on a working dairy farm in the village Buckland Dinham near Frome, with my parents and younger sister. Before and after school we would help out with the chores.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I was always dressing up and putting on performances.

I definitely wanted to be on the stage – actress or singer. I’ve been lucky to have done both.

Tell us a little bit more about the acting...

My father ran the village pantomime, and played the dame. From an early age my sister and I also had various parts. Although it was just a small production, we had a packed house every night, and I loved every wonderful minute of it.

How did you progress into working with Shaker & May? I studied A level art interior design and really enjoyed it. So when the opportunity came up to help a friend with a kitchen showroom in the late 1980s, I had little experience but lots of enthusiasm. I then worked in a kitchen and bathroom showroom in Westbury for 27 years, where I gained invaluable industry knowledge. However, running a new kitchen showroom was something I’ve always wanted to do, so I couldn’t miss the chance to really test myself again.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

Without a doubt creating something beautiful and seeing the clients’ reactions to the finished kitchens.

You can imagine what it will look like but it’s not until it’s all finished that you can see what you’ve designed come to life, that, and being able to create and deliver a dream for someone that was once only an idea on a piece of paper.

What inspires you?

I’m passionate about creating something out of nothing, and I’m inspired by nature – there are so 142 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

many beautiful, natural materials coupled with a such a vast variation of colour, the choice is endless. I also love that moment when you see a client’s reaction to something they love.

What plans does Shaker & May have?

Every business would like to think they’d become a national household name, and while we would like to, in time, open further showrooms, we pride ourselves on a very personal approach, getting to know our clients and their needs. This means we can deliver a high-quality service and products we can be proud of. We strongly believe that we should complete every project as if it was our own.

Whose kitchen would you most love to design?

If I could go back in time I’d design my granny’s kitchen. She loved to bake cakes and spent 80 per cent of her time in the kitchen. I would give her the bespoke country kitchen she always wanted but with all the mod-cons she never had, making it so much easier for her to work in.

Which celebrity would you love to invite over for an informal kitchen supper? And what would you serve?

That’s easy, David Attenborough. Imagine the stories he could tell of his travels, and the wonderful things he’s seen. I think he’d appreciate good home cooking, something like beef stew and dumplings followed by apple crumble and custard.

Is there anything about you that might surprise us?

I’m still a soul and jazz singer. I’m in two bands, Soulville Express and Delta Swing, that play in and around Somerset most weekends.

For more: www.shakerandmay.co.uk

Julia Greenland pictured in her showroom kitchen

IF I COULD GO BACK IN TIME I’D DESIGN MY GRANNY’S KITCHEN. I WOULD GIVE HER THE BESPOKE COUNTRY KITCHEN SHE ALWAYS WANTED

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

Tim O’Sullivan is the Apex hotel’s general manager

CHECKING IN Apex Hotels has announced the appointment of Tim O’Sullivan as the general manager of its new 177-bedroom James Street West hotel, which opens summer 2017. Tim says, “I am not only looking forward to working for such a progressive hotel group, but also relishing the opportunity to lead a team that gives Bath its only city centre conference space.” www.apexhotels.co.uk

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT Royds Withy King staff have put on their best orange outfits to show their support for CRPS UK, the charity that raises awareness of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Louise Hart, partner and head of the personal injury team comments, “This was a great opportunity to unite both our offices and raise awareness of this little-understood condition.” www.roydswithyking.com

A WEALTH OF TALENT Bath-based Epoch Wealth Management has been named one of the UK’s top 100 financial planning firms for the third year running.

The New Model Adviser Top 100 is calculated by using a range of measures, including revenue and recurring income levels. “This independent endorsement of our business also demonstrates our strong commitment to giving our clients the best possible service and advice,” says the firm’s managing partner Barry Newbury. www.epochwm.co.uk

Those post-Christmas waistlines come to us all – so what better way to see in the New Year than with a get fitter plan, one that also does a little bit of good for yourself, the community and our city. The Bath Rugby Foundation, which is the charitable arm of Bath Rugby, wants people to join their 2017 Vitality Bath Half Marathon team.

With their help and support, you can make the 13-mile marathon, taking place 12 March and of which Bath Life is the Official Media Partner, one of the most memorable and enjoyable experiences of 2017. Along with expert training and nutrition plans and tips, foundation runners also receive limited edition Bath Rugby Foundation running vests, use of the Bath Rugby club facilities, pre and post race hydration and snacks, pre and post-race massages and goodie bags.

Last year saw Stuart Hooper at the start line launching the Fun Run, Matt Banahan join the Bath Rugby Foundation’s cheering bus and a runner dressed as a Bath Rugby ball cross the finish. All the fundraising efforts are supported with the two options of becoming an own place runner or a charity place runner.

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

Coming fixtures: 24 December, 2pm, Aviva Premiership, away against Wasps 31 December, 3pm, Aviva Premiership, home against Exeter Chiefs 6 January 2017, 7.45pm, Aviva Premiership, away against Newcastle Falcons

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of the dates and make them work for you 4 JA N UAR Y

The Women’s Business Club Bath Business Lunch at Bailbrook House. 11.30am2pm, £30/£20. www. womensbusiness.club

Hotel; 12-2pm, £50 +fee &VAT. www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

£15 &VAT. www.creativebath.org

24 J ANUAR Y

15 F EBR UARY

Creative Bath Awards nominations open; www.creativebathawards.org

Bristol Life Business Club at Hotel Du Vin with guest tbc; 12-2pm, £50 +fee &VAT. www. bristollifeawards.co.uk

1 2 JA N UAR Y

Get Fit For Business: Business Networking Breakfast January at Bailbrook House. 7.30-9am, £12.78. ww.eventbrite.co.uk

30 J ANUAR Y

Women in Sustainability at Wessex Water, Claverton Down Road. 5-7pm, £5. www.eventbrite.co.uk

23 F EBR UARY

2 F EBR UAR Y

9 MAR C H

Bath Life Awards Finalists’ and Sponsors’ Reception; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Bath Boules, team tickets on sale. www.bathboules.com

Bath Life Awards at Assembly Rooms. For more details visit www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

1 7 JA N UAR Y

The grand reveal of the Bath Life Awards finalists; www. bathlifeawards.co.uk 2 3 JA N UAR Y

Bath Life Business Club at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa with Ian Taylor of The Abbey

21 MAR CH 7 F EBR UAR Y

Creative Bath Business Leaders’ Breakfast. 7.45-9am,

Winners’ Dinners at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 143

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

BREAKING NEWS...

TERRIFIC THREE

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing and important local business stories happening right now…

MAKE IT LIKE A POLAROID PICTURE A photography specialist has turned his expertise and passion for vintage Polaroid cameras into an exciting and original new business.

Ben Clarke, who refurbishes and sells reconditioned instant Polaroids, has set up Super Atomic in Frome.

“I used to really enjoy developing film in the darkroom, and that’s really what got me hooked,” says Ben. “From there I got into ‘old-school’ Super-8 film, and then caught the bug for Polaroids.

“Despite now living in the age of instant smartphone photography, there is now a nostalgia for the original cameras of the 1980s, and they’re still highly-prized by artists and musicians.

“I think that people who enjoy taking pictures and putting some thought into the images they create will really appreciate this second chance to enjoy capturing the moment – and having something real to show for it.”

It’ll all end in cheers Ben’s business is an instant success

For more: www.superatomic.co.uk

Catherine loves china in her hand

MY LITTLE CHINA GIRL Catherine Hughes used to work as public law teacher at Bristol University Law school before she took a leap of faith and moved to china.

The mum-of-four, who lives in Bath and set up The Vintage Hamper Company, which both sells and rents out its sets, explains, “One of my fondest childhood memories is of my grandmother taking out her Royal Albert Old Country Roses fine bone china tea set for a special cup of tea on Sunday afternoon, and for many years after I collected vintage china just for the love of it.

“In the back of my mind I thought I could possibly do something with all of it, and that is how The Vintage Hamper Company came about.

“People seem to love high end picnic baskets as much as I do – lined, leather trims, real glassware, napkins and fitting them out with beautiful vintage china tea cups, saucers and plates is just the most perfect way to eat.”

And Catherine’s favourite place to picnic? “The little valley between Ford and Slaughterford – with friends and all our children – watching them paddling and larking about in the river in the dappled shade.”

For more: www.thevintagehampercompany.uk

NOM NOM Nominations for the Bath Life Awards are in full swing as companies vie to win one of these prestigious accolades.

This year is on course to have a record number of nominations, mirroring the growth in ticket sales, which are tracking ahead of last time.

Any company or organisation can win a Bath Life Award and they are free to enter.

Nominations can be made via the awards website, which has full category details, and close in early January. Finalists are announced on Grand Reveal Day, 17 January, which is sponsored by SearchStar.

“Whether you wish to plan your nomination carefully, which we’d recommend, or rely on the adrenalinesurge of doing it late on, please do get your nominations in,” says Steph Dodd, the events manager of Bath Life’s publisher, MediaClash.

“Winning a Bath Life Award is a tremendous accolade – and one which lasts long beyond the night, with window stickers; website and email assets; and additional coverage in Bath Life during the year. And all topped off by a superb trophy.

“Tickets are on course to sell out once more, but we will do all we can to include as many people and companies as possible.”

The Headline Sponsor of the Awards is the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa with its brand partner Taittinger. Platinum Sponsor is Bristol Airport and the Category sponsors are: Savills, Bath Rugby, Novia, Hawker Joinery, Stone King, First Bath, Kersfield, Bluefin, Bath Audi, Apex Hotels, Tile & Flooring, Clifton Marquee Company, Fidelius, Bath VW, Enlightened Lighting and Minuteman Press. Other sponsors include Vistage, SearchStar and Circo.

An exclusive Finalists’ and Sponsors’ Reception is being held on 2 February at Hall & Woodhouse, and the Bath Life Awards themselves are on 25 February at the Assembly Rooms.

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk Twitter @BathLifeAwards

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 145

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB

BUILDING BLOCKS David Newton, chief executive of Kersfield, a private housebuilder and property development group based in Bath and London, was the latest speaker to join members of the Bath Life Business Club for lunch at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa to share his insights, his background and perspective on the always hot topic of housing redevelopment

146 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WE’RE VERY KEEN ON WALCOT STREET – IT HAS A PRETTY, EDGINESS TO IT Does David think Brexit has thrown a spanner in the works for his company?

“The transaction levels are down by 14 per cent, but in terms of actual cash values and square foot values, nothing is down at all, which would translate as people are simply delaying their purchase.

“However, there is a real skills shortage.

We need more brickies, more sparks, more plumbers, you can’t just train these people overnight – and thanks to Brexit, we’re going to lose all a lot of the ones we’ve got now.”

But David remains buoyant and optimistic

David charms the Bath Life Business Club members

PHOTO BY PHILIP FIELD

W

ith his easy-going charm and self-deprecating humour it would be easy to underestimate David Newton.

The Kersfield chief executive is affable, funny and slightly leftfield but don’t let that fool you. He also has more than 25 years’ experience in property, and a proven track record in originating and delivering large, luxury residential units. He’s passionate and knowledgeable on everything surrounding the subject; from the bricks and mortar of construction to the impact on communities, and from the nitty gritty of planning permission to a long-term vision of how the housing markets work.

So how did this ex-army chap end up in the building trade? “I had a very short and undistinguished career, and was discharged on the grounds I was very bored,” David jokes. “And the refuge for every failed army officer is either property development or estate agency. So I had a go at both.”

David ‘having a go’, soon manifested into a very successful career path, “seeing off four recessions” and led to being an integral part of delivering high-quality, high-end place making and regeneration projects in London, and then in Bath. “The demographics of Bath are phenomenal,” he explains. “We managed to buy at the bottom of the market, things other people didn’t have the appetite for, and stuff without planning permission.”

One of the most high profile of the Kersfield projects has been their redevelopment of the surrounding MOD sites. “We’ve got more new homes being built as a result of those MOD disposals than before.”

But he’s also quick to address the contentious issue of the lack of affordable housing in Bath. “You need to have balanced comminutes – that really is essential. As an employer in the city, we see people with really decent salaries unable to afford to either rent or buy here, and that’s just completely wrong. You do need both offerings – social rented accommodation and heavily discounted homes, which people can actually buy a stake or buy entirely.

“I think the government thought they could take the affordable housing problem and plant it on the developers’ laps. So we have a certain ratio of affordable homes we have to build, between 25 and 40 per cent depending on where you are. But if the site isn’t large enough, all that does is actually slow up the delivery of land.

“There are certain sites, like greenfield sites, where it is completely appropriate to have a balanced community if you are building 2,000 new homes. For example, we are very excited by the Lower Bristol Road site that is being brought forward as the scale allows for more affordable homes.”

about the continued investment and growth of property within our city. “I love emerging areas, and Bath is still evolving. We are developing contemporary high-end housing along the Upper Borough Walls, and we’re very keen on Walcot Street, it has a pretty edginess to it.”

And it’s clear to see, overseeing and supporting these changes is what sets David alight. “We’re not building 100 bland boxes in a green field. We get exciting and challenging projects – I get a real kick out of doing something that is beautiful.”

For more: www.kersfield.co.uk

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH

The Bath Life Business Club is a select group of senior business people. It features a leading speaker – for example, Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis – and a damn fine two-course lunch. The next meeting is on 28 November 2016 – if you’d like to join, please contact Stephanie Dodd (Stephanie.Dodd@ mediaclash.co.uk). These events sell out quickly, so look out for the emails...

The Bath Life Business Club is sponsored

by Bishop Fleming

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E L E G A L F O C U S

HOW TO BE A GOOD ATTORNEY What does it actually mean if you are named as an Attorney in a Lasting Power of Attorney - do you have to agree, what do you have to do? Solicitor HELEN STARKIE explores the options...

F

irst things first - and a point so obvious that it is often overlooked.

If you are asked to be an Attorney you are not obliged to accept the job. You should consider before accepting whether you are an appropriate choice and will be able to carry out your duties. Will you have time? Are you comfortable with the idea of making big decisions for another person if the need should arise? Are you confident that you will be able to act in the best interests of the person appointing you (known as the Donor) and carry out their wishes even if your own views do not coincide with theirs? Are you being asked to act jointly with another person?

If so, can you work together comfortably or will

“YOUR OVERRIDING DUTY IS TO ACT IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE DONOR”

there be tensions? If you are not happy to act, then you should say so at the outset and the Donor should choose another person to act as Attorney instead.

If, having considered these points, you decide to accept your appointment, what are the pitfalls to look out for in carrying out your duties?

A Power of Attorney does not give you carte blanche to make any decision you wish – or all decisions for the Donor. You must consult with the Donor of the Power and allow, or help, them to make their own decision on a given topic to the extent that they are able to do that – even if you do not agree with their choice. The law allows us all to make eccentric decisions if we wish to. Only if, in a given situation, you are confident that the Donor does not have the capacity to make any sort of reasoned decision may you make it for them.

Furthermore, if the Donor’s capacity is variable – perhaps because they are fresher in the morning or after they have had medication – you must try to time decision-making to give them the best chance of making their own.

If the Power of Attorney relates to finances

you must keep the Donor’s funds separate from anyone else’s – and particularly your own. You are not obliged to file a record of your dealings with the Donor’s money and assets with the Office of the Public Guardian as a matter of course but must be able to produce them if the OPG asks for them. They do undertake spot checks.

You cannot make gifts of the Donor’s money except in certain specific circumstances – and then only of relatively modest amounts. The fact that the Donor may have had it in mind to make or been in the habit of making major gifts for tax-saving or other reasons is not sufficient to allow you to do the same on their behalf. You need to obtain specific authority from the Court of Protection to make a gift of any size.

If you are dealing with the Donor’s finances you must investigate their entitlement to state or other benefits and claim what they are entitled to and you must ensure that tax is paid at the appropriate rate and any overpayment is reclaimed.

You cannot, without the court’s approval, pay yourself or any other relative for caring for the Donor.

Your overriding duty is to act in the best interests of the Donor. That means that you must take proper advice before making major decisions – for example from a valuer in setting the asking price of a house you are proposing to sell, an independent financial adviser before making significant investments – or in the case of a Welfare Power of Attorney, from medical experts when making certain decisions affecting the Donor’s health.

The golden rule is, if in doubt, seek advice – either from the Office of the Public Guardian or from a solicitor who specialises in this area of law.

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353 www.helenstarkie.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 149

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BRING to ACCOUNT So many of us count on the accountants to help us with our financial affairs, especially at this time of year. Here we persuade three Bath-based accountants to take time out from balancing the books to talk pocket money, their precious investments and to share the wealth of their fiscal knowledge…

CHRISTINE TUCKERMAN Tax partner at Bishop Fleming

How would you describe your role to a layperson?

I head up the team within Bishop Fleming that looks after people’s personal tax affairs. My role is about focusing on the needs of our clients and ensuring that they are happy.

Do you think people understand your job?

I hope so, although my own daughter once said she did not want my job when she grew up because she thought all I ever did was stuff envelopes.

What industry changes do you foresee?

Enormous change is required within the tax profession over the next two to five years as the digitalisation of tax comes into effect.

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this field?

It’s not all about the numbers; you need to pay as much attention to your soft skills as you do to your technical skills.

How did you become an accountant?

I fell into working for the Inland Revenue when my father insisted that I stopped having fun and did some real work. I was very lucky as it was a perfect position for me and I never looked back.

What subjects did you enjoy at school?

I was an avid sportswoman; I played netball to junior county level.

Were you good with your pocket money?

My parents and grandparents had lived through the wars, so we were constantly reminded about how tough things had been for them and how easy things were for us. We soon realised if we worked hard and saved for a treasured item, we’d appreciate it more. However, my father used to deduct 5p for every light we left on, or tap we left running, so although I was good with my pocket money, I never ended up with any left.

150 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

LOOK AFTER THE PENNIES AND THE POUNDS WILL LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES. BUT DON’T BE MEAN ALONG THE WAY

What has been your most valuable investment to date?

My daughter’s education. This is quite possibly the most important investment for a parent, and I’m very proud of her achievements.

Money motto?

‘Look after the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves’. But don’t be mean along the way.

Top money tip?

Make regular contributions into your pension pot from a very young age. Retirement might seem a long way off when you’re in your twenties but, as it gets closer, it is much more difficult to catch up on those lost early years.

Tell us your favourite accountancy joke...

There are three types of accountants: those who can count and those who can’t. www.bishopfleming.co.uk

NICK OLIVER

Partner at Pearson May How would you describe your role?

I provide strategic business, accounting and tax advice and services to both businesses and individuals to help them achieve goals, minimise risk, increase wealth and minimise their tax.

Does everyone understand the importance of your job?

Some people underestimate the extra value that an experienced accountant can add in helping their clients to achieve their goals rather than merely being, as some accountants are, a historian who records and submits that which has already happened after the event – rather than influencing the future outcome of events.

What makes you proud of your industry?

The lobbying role played by our trade body The Institute of Chartered Accountants in respect of trying to simplify the tax system.

What advice would you give someone who wants to be an accountant?

Do an accountancy or business-related degree, then train with an established firm with a diversified client base that will provide you with balanced all round training. Always put clients first and be passionate in all that you do.

Did you ever consider another career path?

Early on in my career I did consider whether to stay in public practice or to wholly concentrate on being a business entrepreneur and on property investment and development. Fortunately I have been able to combine all three.

What were your talents at school?

Sport, sport and sport, closely followed by economics and English literature.

CALVIN HEALY

Personal tax manager with Richardson Swift In simple terms, how would you describe your role?

It is almost similar to a doctor’s – my specialist discipline is taxation and I’m here to look after financial health. A doctor listens to what you have to say and diagnoses any issues, before advising you on what to do. That is pretty much identical to my role in the world of tax.

Do you think people understand the importance of your job?

From a financial and tax perspective, the world is an increasingly complex place in which to live and work.

To navigate successfully, you need to be able to trust in reliable, sound advice. No one wants to wake up to a large, unexpected tax bill.

Does your industry make you proud?

I read that some ex Man United players have retrained to become qualified accountants. It made me proud to think that our industry is open to anyone with an appetite for hard work.

What changes do you think are necessary in your field?

There needs to be more certainty in how the law is applied. Some of the new legislation is far-reaching and widely drawn. This carries the inherent risk of accidentally applying in situations where the law was never intended to apply.

Best piece of money advice?

Spend a penny, save a penny.

Can you recall your first significant purchase?

I was quite focused from an early age and at the age of 11, between summer holidays at my grandparents chalet in Switzerland, I saved my pocket money for a whole year to buy an expensive Swiss Army penknife.

I still have it and use it.

Best piece of money advice?

A tax break very rarely turns a bad investment, or a poor business decision, back into a good one. Also, cash is king.

What do you do when not working?

I enjoy travel, reading, music, watching rugby, motorsport and time spent with family and friends. My family has very recently welcomed the arrival of a new puppy – a tail-wagging bundle of energy called Max. Amongst a long list of new dog-related duties, I am currently spending my spare time playing different radio programmes to Max to see which helps him sleep best. The result so far has been BBC Radio 4’s Money Box – this has him nodding off almost straightaway. www.pearsonmay.co.uk

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this field?

Be prepared for lots of exams and juggling work and study. Your social life might suffer a bit in the early years, although try to find a healthy balance. The pain of exams doesn’t last for long and it’s worth it in the end.

What misconceptions do people have about your profession?

That life in accountancy is dull. The reality is nothing like that – it brings variety, new challenges and the chance to meet new people from all walks of life.

Did you ever consider another career path?

My careers advisor suggested dentistry and arranged a twoweek work placement. I quickly knew it wasn’t for me.

What were your talents at school?

In my head: sport. In reality: maths and sciences.

Were you good with your pocket money?

Absolutely! I was obsessed with remote control cars and put everything towards my Tamiya Hotshot.

A motto you like to live by?

Chance favours the prepared mind.

How do you relax?

Exploring this beautiful city on my road bike.

What’s your favourite numbers joke?

Six out of five people have difficulty with fractions. www.richardsonswift.co.uk

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l e g a l s e r v i c e s a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Omnia Solicitors welcomes new director Property law expert Joanne stone joins boutique law firm team at their Queen Square office in Bath

J

oanne Stone was delighted to accept a director’s position at the firm. Jo is well known in the Bath market and has worked with directors of Omnia previously.

Jo is a solicitor with many years experience in property law. She can deal with all property transactions but specialises in complex

“we are delighted to be working with her again”

property transactions including leasehold property, buy to let, shared ownership and shared equity transactions.

Erin Edwards, Jo’s assistant has also been employed to strengthen the expanding residential property department at the firm.

Martin Powell, Solicitor and Director says, “Jo has an outstanding reputation in Bath and the surrounding areas as a first class conveyancer and property lawyer. Her way with clients is second to none and we are delighted to be working with her again”.

Omnia Solicitors is a boutique law firm specialising in high level personal service and value for money products.

1A Queen Square, Bath BA12HA 01225 666 600 hello@omnialegal.co.uk www.omnialegal.co.uk

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T

WHO’S AFRAID OF THE BIG, BAD (FINANCIAL) WOLF? Help secure your future and make plans for a financial happy ever after with clear, straightforward and no nonsense advice and support from EPOCH WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Y

ou may think that the world of finance is a complex place. And you’d be right a lot of the time.

Some advisers bamboozle the people they are trying to help to ‘prove’ that they are needed.

The thing is, we think there’s a better way.

Financial planning should be understood by everyone.

A proper financial plan is based around you and your goals. What do you want out of life? If money was no object what would you change? How much income do you need now and in the future? What assets do you have to plan with?

Money is an enabler, to help you live life on your terms. If your adviser doesn’t know your true goals, how can you have a proper financial plan?

A proper plan lets you see the likely impact of your choices and the extent to which you can achieve your short, medium and long term objectives. How do you know if you are on track with your finances? Could saving a bit more today pay off when it comes to relying on your savings in the future? How does saving tax or inflation affect things?

A proper plan takes account of your current financial information- income, expenditure,

assets and liabilities - and projects these into the future, taking account of known changes in circumstances (children being privately educated or a business sale, for example).

The ebb and flow of your finances can then be seen and allows you to see whether you’re headed for failure or success, as the charts below show.

There is no magic answer – however, having visibility on your finances allows you to make the necessary plans. In option 1, a client runs out of liquid assets during their lifetime. A proper plan will be able to show you your 'baseline' and the impact of 'what if' scenarios like illness or premature death, or the impact of selling your business sooner.

In option 2, downsizing their home at retirement created an inflow of capital meaning they had sufficient funds for life.

Only when the threats and opportunities to your achieving your life goals are known should your adviser mention investment strategy to you. If they talk more about their investment proposition than your objectives, you know that they’re unlikely to be able to create a proper plan.

Epoch works with a small number of wealthy private clients and owner managed businesses to help them realise what’s

Option 1

important and what steps need to be taken allow them to live life on their terms. To find out more, email enquiries@epochwm.co.uk or call 01225 487772.

Please note that past performance is no guide to future returns. The value of investments can go down as well as up and cannot be guaranteed. Cash flow modelling is not regulated by the FCA but advice arising may be regulated. Epoch Wealth Management is authorised and regulated by the FCA, 549980.

Epoch Wealth Management Queen Square House, Queen Square Place, Bath BA1 2LL 01225 487772 enquiries@epochwm.co.uk www.epochwm.co.uk

Option 2

Downsizes Money runs out

Money continues for life

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 153

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a d v e rti s i n g f e at u r e F I N A N C E

DON’T let taxing issues ruin the festive season With PEARSON MAY'S advice, support and guidance, tax and money matters are made simple

A

s I am sure most people are aware, 31 January 2017 is the online filing deadline in respect of tax returns for the year ended 5 April 2016. As we head toward the festive season, you may want to use any time off that you have to get your tax affairs in order. After all, there’s nothing that says Christmas quite like sorting through all your tax records, whilst recovering from too much turkey and Christmas pudding!

The penalties for not dealing with your affairs on a timely basis can be significant though and can quickly turn into a serious issue the longer that matters are left.

In most cases, if you don’t file your tax return before 31 January 2017, there will be an automatic penalty of £100 that you will have to pay even if there is no tax payable.

But that is only the start. HMRC will charge interest on any late-paid tax and it’s also worth noting that any tax in respect of the year ended 5 April 2016 which remains unpaid at 28 February 2017, will incur a further 5 per cent surcharge penalty.

Furthermore, if your tax return is due to be submitted by 31 January 2017 and is still not submitted by 30 April 2017 then even more significant penalties are levied at the rate of £10 per day (up to a maximum of £900). There are then further penalties levied if the return is more than six months late and 12 months late (a minimum of an additional £300 each).

To put it in perspective, if your tax return is

submitted more than 12 months late then, even if there is no tax due, you can be fined up to £1,600. This figure can be much higher if there is significant tax due.

As many people are filing their tax returns around this time of year, fraudsters can try to take advantage of this by attempting to contact taxpayers asking them to disclose personal information about their tax affairs or bank details etc.

One of the most common such scams in the past few years takes the form of a bogus email purporting to have been sent from HMRC informing taxpayers that they are entitled to a tax repayment. The emails often ask taxpayers to then click on a link in the email or to provide their bank details so that the repayment can be made.

HMRC will never contact taxpayers by email about such refunds so be very cautious about any email correspondence you receive which appears to have been sent by HMRC. If you are unsure about the content of any emails then it is safer to not click on any links in the email, open any attachments or reply with any confidential information.

A worrying new development are phone calls purporting to be from HMRC. One scam we’ve heard about recently is an automated message that starts, “This is Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs. We have been trying to reach you to let you know that we are filing a law suit against you.” The message is then said to provide a list of options, such as, “To

speak to your case officer press one.” This happened to one of our clients recently and I’m pleased to report that instead of pressing one, she phoned us instead. We could reassure her that her tax affairs were in order, there was no such lawsuit and the call was a scam.

HMRC ask that taxpayers who receive any suspicious emails forward them to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk or send any suspicious text messages to 60599. There is further information available online at www.gov. uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing.

Please stay safe and may we take this opportunity to wish you all an enjoyable festive season.

The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.

Nick Oliver FCA FIoD

- Celebrating 175 Years -

37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491 mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

LORD OR LADY OF THE

MANOR

156 LIFELIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112 II BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

With more than 23 acres of land, 12 bedrooms, a swimming pool and staff flat, Cold Ashton Manor’s beauty is just as jawdropping as the property’s fascinating history, which begins in the early 1500s…

By E V E LY N GR E E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE LIFE II 157 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON 113

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

A

s much as we love gazing longingly at beautiful new-build properties, there’s something distinctly special about a house which has a wonderful story behind it.

Enter Cold Ashton Manor, the preeminent house in the historical village of Cold Ashton, six miles north of Bath.

It belonged to Bath Abbey until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the early 16th century and was subsequently bought by William Pepwell, Mayor of Bristol, in 1564.

His widow, Elizabeth Pepwell, built the current dwelling between 1597 and 1601 and on her death it was sold to John Gunning whose son Robert, also a Mayor of Bristol, built the elaborate stone gateway after the Restoration of the Monarchy in 1660. Sir Robert was succeeded by the Langton family, later Gore-Langtons, who became Earl Temple of Stowe and resided at Newton Park outside Bath. In 1923, the house was acquired by Colonel Reginald Cooper who restored the place to its former glory. He also undertook the restoration of other significant country houses including Cothay in Somerset and Julians in Hertfordshire.

However, Cold Ashton was Cooper’s first, and perhaps most successful restoration.

The manor and the garden walls and gateways south of the house are Grade-I listed, being of exceptional architectural and historic interest. The Court House and some other elements of the property including the barn – which dates from 1810 – and some of the garden gateways north of the house are listed as Grade-II, being of extra special interest.

The impressive Jacobean dwelling is a grand yet manageable house, constructed of stone, part-rendered with prominent quoins under a stone slate roof. It sits back from the village lane with a driveway leading into a traditional stone-built courtyard with a barn, garaging, stabling, stores, home office and farmhouse. Situated on the north side of the courtyard, The Court House is an attractive farmhouse 158 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: the magnificent, farreaching views from the manor; a rustic reception room; the traditional, sizable main kitchen; one of the almost regal bedrooms

HOUSE NUMBERS

8,990

square foot of space

12

bedrooms

£2.95M

with 17th century origins. It’s a substantial secondary dwelling, ideal for relatives or for rental income. Beyond the courtyard is the pool house complex with changing facilities, a shower room, cloakroom and a kitchen.

Few houses enjoy such a spectacular setting as Cold Ashton Manor with magnificent, far-reaching views over the beautiful St Catherine’s Valley. The grounds themselves (all 23.5 acres of them) are a balance of spectacular formal gardens, swathes of flat lawns enclosed by traditional Cotswold stone walls, a productive vegetable garden with heated greenhouses, and an adjoining orchard and paddocks.

Once you enter the house, there are outstanding historical features throughout, including; ovolo mullions, bolection moulding, ornate architraving and arched stone fireplaces.

The principal rooms lie either side of the hall, with a large drawing room, sitting room, study and dining room being most prominent. The dining room adjoins the kitchen with an open plan breakfast room. The pantry, larder and utility rooms are ideally located around these rooms with a further cloakroom nearby. The playroom lies off the rear hall, as does the staircase to the staff flat which comprises a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

The panelled master bedroom suite occupies nearly half of the first floor with an en suite bathroom and large dressing room. There are two further bedrooms, both wellappointed with a shared bathroom, and the second floor has four bedrooms, a bathroom and a shower room.

In 1934, Christopher Hussey summarised the property in Country Life as “a hill top house, grey gables pricking the sky; a perfectly integrated symmetrical composition”, and, we think you’ll agree, the next lord or lady of this manor is sure to be very lucky indeed.

price

23.5

acres of land

Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JG; 01225 325999; www.knightfrank.co.uk

ES T A T E

A GENT

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I

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SERVICES GUIDE

ALLERGY TESTING

ALLERGY TESTING

GUIDE to SERVICES in the CITY

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

essica is an artist-maker who works with paper of all kinds – be it bible, recycled, vintage or lace papers. She mixes the techniques of paper-cutting, collage and sculpture, to explore and capture movement, shape and space. She has already brought four books out, and here she tells us more about the two more she’s getting ready to publish in the new year…

Why do you choose to use paper as your artistic material?

My interest is in using this fragile material in figurative and story-telling forms; experimenting with the seemingly endless possibility of paper as a medium. I might make a Georgian wig with a model of the Boston Tea Party on it or a dragon mask, or a paper kimono.

How would you describe your work?

A dominant theme in my work is nature – feathers, leaves, shells, fossils, flowers and trees. Birds’ movement, expression, texture, flight, balance and variety find their way into many pieces. My inspirations come from a wide observation of nature via my daily walks in the countryside around Bath, as well as from historical imagery and symbolism, ancient paintings, embroidery, tapestries, costumes, lace, knitting and stained glass.

How did you get into this line of work?

After a career as a BBC producer, I trained as an illustrator and did an MA in illustration. Since then, I’ve been making paper art – paper cuts, collages and 3D paper sculptures – and working as an illustrator. My work is commissioned for public installations, advertising and marketing, design and decoration, books, websites and magazines, as well as for bespoke gifts.

You’ve published four books and have others on the way. Tell us more…

Yes, I also have a collector’s edition of my Tangle Wood book coming in February to cheer up the wintery blues, and I’m working on a colouring book for a New York based publisher, Rizzoli.

It’s 90 pages of designs based on Tiffany glass and is due out autumn next year. I’ve also drawn a portfolio of more than 200 illustrations in the past year. I recently illustrated a cook book for Rizzoli with both paper cuts and sketches, a poetry collection called The Book of Snow by award-winning poet Robert Seatter with cut outs, collages and collographs, and designed a range of fabric designs for Tribee Fashion in the US. What else is new with you?

I am currently the in-house illustrator for English Heritage and a visiting artist at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Museum of London, and The Holburne Museum in Bath, among many others.

JESSICA PALMER The local paper artist on washing dishes in Paris, cocktails at Bath’s Canary Gin Bar and and the worst Christmas present she’s ever received Who inspires you?

Contemporary artists, medieval tapestry makers, crafts people and fashion designers. From Grayson Perry and Matisse, to Chagalle and Arthur Ransome.

What’s the best bit about your job?

Absorption and getting lost in what I am doing – whether it’s building a scale model of Hampton Court Palace, illustrating Bluebeard or making a complex paper cut.

And the most challenging?

Making sure every piece of work is as good as it could possibly be.

Where do you live, and what are the pleasures of living here?

I’ve lived in Bath for five years. My home is in Widcombe with my husband; it’s a pleasure having my studio which overlooks our garden and the city over to Solsbury Hill.

Your favourite hotspots in Bath?

The Dark Horse for its innovative cocktails and lots of homemade elements; the Scallop Shell for better fish and chips than we ever find at the seaside; and The Canary Gin Bar for its atmosphere and excellence.

Share a favourite view in the city…

From the top of Rainbow Woods looking back down into the valley and the city.

What would you change about Bath if you owned it for a day?

I would inject a bit more ethnic diversity.

170 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Your most treasured possession?

Life would be impossibly tricky without my Apple Mac and my Wacom Cintiq tablet. I’ve always been a sucker for technology.

Tell us something not many people would know about you?

I used to live in Paris and I have a Grand Diplôme Culinaire, which I earned by washing dishes and translating in a French cooking school.

Surprise us…

Unlike most people, I love public speaking.

What are the best and most disappointing Christmas presents you’ve ever received?

The best was a pair of cashmere fingerless gloves for cold mornings in the studio; and the worst: chocolate liqueurs.

What are your New Year’s resolutions?

A bit of a serious one: to remember the words of Auld Lang Syne, which basically means we should not forget our old friends and should celebrate a reunion with them.

Jessica’s Tangle Wood Collectors Art Edition (Search Press) will be available in February 2017, and her Tiffany Glass Colouring Book (Rizzoli) will be on shelves for autumn 2017. For more information, visit www. jessicapalmerart.com