Bath Life – issue 356

Dining/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 356 / 5 – 19 JANUARY 2018 / NEW NORMAL

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED

BATH HALF MARATHON RUNNERS’ STORIES

ISSUE 356 / 5 – 19 JANUARY 2018 / £3

WELL & GOOD

DISCOVER YOUR BEST SELF IN 2018

NEW YEAR’S REVOLUTION

INSPIRING EDUCATION IN AND AROUND BATH

COLOUR PUNCH

PICTURE OF HEALTH OUR FIT-FOR-LIFE SHOPPING GUIDE

KNOCKOUT ABSTRACT VISION AT BATH’S ARTY NEW RESTAURANT, NOURISH

EDITOR’S LETTER / ISSUE 356 / 5 – 19 JANUARY 2018

New beginnings

62

COLOUR-POP

The vibrant décor and flavours mirror each other at new restaurant, Nourish

Happy New Year and welcome to the very first 2018 issue of Bath Life! As with any January, there’s a focus on fresh starts and setting new challenges, and one of the resolutions we’re inspired to try after visiting a new plant-based (and rather artistic) restaurant on London Road, is Veganuary. On page 62, see our review of the all-vegan restaurant which has opened our eyes to colour in the kitchen, and local ethical grocer Farmdrop has spurred us on further by sharing a favourite veggie recipe on page 66.

If you’re yet to decide how you’d like to make 2018 your best year yet, we have plenty of suggestions – from wardrobe makeovers, to hobby ideas – on page 34, and if you’re in need of some fitness motivation, on page 46 we catch up with three runners gearing themselves up to take on the Bath Half Marathon.

Elsewhere, we’ve been school-hopping to discover the inspiring forms of education in and around Bath (page 74); taken a peep inside a rather charming new-to-the-market property in a much sought-after area of the city (page 88); and are excited to hear that former Strictly dance superstars Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace are sashaying their way to Bath this month (page 53).

Here’s to another fantastic year for you, for yours, and for Bath.

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

FEATURES / ISSUE 356 / 5 – 19 JANUARY 2018

Pot it like it’s hot at Bath College

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NEW BEGINNINGS

Things can only get better with our experts’ 30 ways for self-improvement

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Bath Lives Life in small-scale from modelmakers Kevin Mulvany and Susie Rogers

FEATURES / ISSUE 356 / 5 – 19 JANUARY 2018

HEALTH 46 On your marks Three runners tell us why they’re taking part in the Bath Half

48 Editor’s choice Both life and style with our health picks

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M E ET T H E T EAM Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

Deputy editor Samantha Walker sam.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors David Flatman, Angela Mount, Philippa May and Nic Bottomley Group advertising manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Sophie Speakman sophie.speakman@mediaclash.co.uk Sales executive Louis Grey louis.grey@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS 53 Arts intro Stepping out with Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace

54 What’s on

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk

Time to update the events diary

61 Bookshelf Nic Bottomley reimagines superheroes and finds some comic capers

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD 62 Restaurant Plant-based and delicious dining at vegan restaurant Nourish

Bath Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash

66 Recipe

PHOTO BY TIM WOOLF

Turmeric cauliflower steaks with curry sauce – well, it is Veganuary

69 Angela Mount The party is never over with these fabulous wines

71 Food & drink news The Rui in Bathwick and the Chef v Chef competition

EDUCATION 74 A new year of learning Superheroes and yoga – just two of the ways schools will inspire pupils this year

BUSINESS

DEPARTMENTS

79 Business insider

9 12 29 31 73

News, views and interviews from the region’s professionals

PROPERT Y 88 Property showcase Luxurious living and space at Lansdown’s Lime Tree Lodge

88

74

Spotlight Society A man’s world Inside Story Shopping intro

© 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 We spotted this painting, See Through as a Bunch of Fives, £650, at new restaurant Nourish – where the food was as colourful as the décor.

See our review on page 62

BATH: ITS LIFE AND TIMES

People-power means the club is now community owned

The ownership plan wasn’t a hoop dream

VENUES

TAKING A PIECE OF THE ACTION Entertainment hotspot Komedia has achieved its goal of becoming community owned after exceeding a £350,000 crowdfunding target.

It means the future of the club, in Westgate Street, Bath, is now secure, with £379,000 raised 24 hours before the deadline.

Celebrities, including comedian Katherine Ryan and singer Midge Ure, pledged their support to the community ownership scheme, with the initiative also capturing the imagination of venue-goers.

Supporters will receive rewards and benefits, plus tax incentives.

“This confirms what we thought

we already knew; that there is a real appetite in our city and the surrounding area for a strong creative offer,” says Eleanor Household, Komedia’s head of development.

“We thought it was worth fighting to keep and it seems our community agrees.”

The venue’s founder, Richard Daws, is delighted by the outcome.

“Our aim with the Komedia brand has always been to provide a platform to nurture, enhance and protect live entertainment in this country,” he says.

For more: www.komedia.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

The Script get all mean and moody

Princess Margaret’s strapless number

EXHIBITIONS

GET YOUR FROCKS OFF

“We hope you can join us to rock in this unique atmosphere.”

The Script has sold over 29 million records, including the anthemic For The First Time, and Hall of Fame, featuring will.i.am.

Forest Live is a major music series, managed by the Forestry Commission.

Income generated from ticket sales helps look after the nation’s forests sustainably, and helps support wildlife to thrive.

Tickets cost £42.50.

An exhibition exploring the fashions worn by key women in the royal family opens in Bath in February.

Royal Women will be a ‘family tree’ exhibition, looking at the clothes worn

by Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret.

It will examine their sartorial lives, looking at each woman’s unique style, the role they played within the monarchy and how that was reflected in their choice of dress.

Exhibition curator, Elly Summers, says, “The Fashion Museum is one of the world’s great museum collections of historical fashionable dress and we are immensely fortunate that among its treasures are dresses belonging to members of the royal family; we are equally fortunate in the loan of key pieces from the Royal Collection.”

The exhibition includes a grey silk satin ball gown worn by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1954, and a Christian Dior strapless black lace evening dress worn by Princess Margaret.

For more: www.forestry.gov.uk/music

For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk/royalwomen

CONCERTS

ROCK THE FOREST Westonbirt will be alive with the sound of rock music as part of concert series Forest Live.

Dublin’s finest, The Script, will play in the great outdoors on 14 June, with the location providing a perfect backdrop for the gig.

“We love performing as part of Forest Live,” says the three-piece’s frontman Danny O’Donoghue.

“It will be our fourth trip to Thetford Forest and we look forward to making our debut at Westonbirt Arboretum.

Adventures in party-going

Patsy and Tom Gould

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

THE BATH LIFE OF THE PART Y

The beautiful setting that greeted guests

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa was the venue for the Bath Life Winter Reception on 11 December.

The celebratory event was attended by many of Bath’s businessmen and women, with over 100 guests in attendance.

Delicious canapĂŠs, wine and soft drinks were served, with the party a chance for guests to reflect on a successful 2017.

Photos by Chris Daw, with assistance from Tegan Rush www.chrisdawphotography.com

Jennifer Renney-Butland, Ian Sandham and Surrinder Sandham-Bains

Chris and Karen Parsons David Moore and Alex Schlesinger Jo Kangus, Sam Laite and Wes Kangus

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

Lorri Newton and Franki Watson

SOCIETY

Tina and Joel Bugg

Simon and Kay Hutchinson, Ann-Marie James and Rachel King

Rhiannon Marzocca, Alison Woodhead and Izzi Lenon

Sheralie Margenout and Tanya Pettitt

Louis Grey and Yvette Culbert

Kelsey Chalmers and Miriam Hunter Dale Hattey, Sarah Moon and Ryan Cardwell

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SOCIETY David and Lorri Newton with Tom Hobson

Continued from page 13

Amanda and Simon Brown

Alex and Kate Timms with Nick Oliver

Andy Paradise with Annie and Tim Moss

Henry and Claire Hunton

Jessica and Adam Lloyd-Smith, with Kate Authers

Tom Walker and Ed McAdam

Kerrianne Gauld and David James

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Luke Watson, Steve Hawkins and Tom Annear

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advertisi n g feature O p t o m e t ry

A Client’s View Brad Abrahams Optometry highlights the importance of regular eye checks

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rad Abrahams invests in the most state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that he can give you the most comprehensive eye examination possible to look after the health of your eyes. The equipment he uses can examine areas of the eyes that are inaccessible during a basic eye examination elsewhere. Here is an example of the area of the eye captured in a fundus photo (part of a basic sight test) and what can be seen using the hi-tech OPTOS Daytona equipment that Brad has invested in; not currently available elsewhere in Bath.

A client recounts his events from his recent routine eye exam with Brad, who offered him the more thorough eye examination: “I went for a routine eye test, symptom free, but an indication of a possible deteriorating eye condition was observed by my optometrist, Brad, who brought this to the attention of eye specialists which enabled early intervention and correction. I would like to thank all involved for their professionalism, and skills which enabled prompt intervention in safeguarding of my eyesight from further deterioration. Detailed below is my journey through this occurrence.

"During a visit to my optometrist for a routine eye test, I elected to have the additional retinal scan offered to me. When looking at my fundus photo, Brad didn’t have any concerns about the health of my eyes as everything looked normal.

"However, when he looked at the additional retinal scan he noticed an abnormality in my right eye that could be a raised or detached retina.

"To allay his concerns he referred me to an eye specialist at the Royal United Hospital, and I was seen later that day.

"The initial examination by the eye specialist could not confirm retinal detachment however the details provided in my referral letter from Brad gave her cause to seek a consultant to examine me. This examination confirmed a tiny hole in the retina.

"The RUH phoned the Bristol Eye Hospital seeking an urgent appointment and provided me with a referral letter; I was examined 36 hours later.

"The doctor confirmed a retinal detachment, arranged a pre-operation assessment and

booked corrective surgery for 72 hours later.

The vitreoretinal and surgery was successful with no complications; I was able to leave the hospital unaccompanied and return home by train.

"The retinal scanning equipment plus the specialist skills and experience of my optometrist Brad Abrahams enabled early intervention and prevented further damage, which could have gone unnoticed if he didn’t use his state-of-the-art equipment.”

It's very easy to neglect your eyes because they seldom hurt when there is a problem with them. If you have an eye examination it doesn’t just confirm if you need to wear glasses or have had a change of prescription, it’s also an important eye health check. Various general health problems and early signs of eye conditions can be picked up before you're aware of any symptoms, many of which can be treated if found early enough.

2 Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RG 01225 444321 team@bradabrahams.uk.com www.bradabrahams.uk.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

SOCIETY Continued from page 14 Alison Watson, Rebecca Coke, Alexa Voisey and Emma Rose

James Portman and Andrew Cronan

Tracey Ellis and Gail Quinn

Zak and Sharon Paradise, Paul Hussey and Andy Paradise

Samantha and Harriet Barber

Jonathan Stapleton with Isabel and Graham Outram Natalie and Gary Young

Matt Bielby and Alex Brown 16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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Carpets

Rugs

Vinyls

Image shows Brockway carpets

Commercial

SOCIETY Continued from page 16 Carys Richards, Alice Derrick and Louis Mullane

Engaging conversation

Nickie Portman, Charles Cronin and Lucy Terrell

Jo Fallon, Alison Woodhead, Daniel Fallon, Rhiannon Marzocca and Izzi Lenon Zara Perry and Amanda Brown

Katya Maiseyeva and Chris Sanders

Graham and Isabel Outram

Roger Chadwick, Steph Dodd, Ryan and Zara Perry, Simon and Amanda Brown 18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY

Peter Groves, Anna Bowkiss, Emma Seymour and Peter Bowkiss

BUILDING BLOCKS Bath Building Society held a Christmas Drinks event on 7 December at Bath Function Rooms, Green Park Station.

The evening affair saw guests enjoying some festive cheer ahead of the holidays.

Photos by Philip Shone www.mamaisononline.co.uk

Mark Wiltshaw and Richard Rata

Martin Roberts, Loraine Morgan-Brinkhurst and Dick Jenkins Claire Johncox and Jan Robertson

Nicola Cutler, Jon Sweeting and Jason Wilmot

Val and Ben Lowden Rodney Hodgman and Noel Broomfield

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Steve Avery, Robert Bryant-Pearson and Ben Hutchings

SOCIETY Working the bar

CREATIVE STREAK On 5 December, Bath’s creatives gathered for the Creative Bath Winter Social, held at the city’s newest venue, Walcot House.

Guests enjoyed delicious drinks, music and fantastic food.

Chair of Creative Bath, Greg Ingham, spoke about the Creative Bath Awards with Bath Spa University announced as Headline Sponsor for the 2018 Awards – for the second year running.

The Creative Bath Awards will be held in Queen Square on 14 June.

Photos by Rich Morris www.richmorrisphotography.com

Amanda Brown, Nick Steel and Simon Brown

Joan Holder, Nikki Jay, Alyson Ryan and Linzi Stott

Jon Howard and Britta Stockinger Networking in Bath’s newest venue

Luke Taylor and Sophie Moore Eyes front for creativity 22 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SOCIETY John and Teresa Ziemniak, Alison Chapman and Sarah Beer

THE GLITTERATI Mallory held a Sunday Bash on 19 November to showcase new products and collections from Cartier, Mikimoto and Pomellato.

The afternoon event, at Lucknam Park, saw 120 guests able to meet watchmakers and goldsmiths.

They were greeted with Bellinis and enjoyed food prepared by Michelin-starred chef Hywel Jones.

Photos by Tom Quintrell

June Stockham and Marlene Eyre

Heather and Steve Leggett

Emma and Ian Wheadon

Steve Rogers with Sue and Mark Jackson Mark de Bruxelles and Bob Jordan

Ben and Jenny Walden

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Lin Rogers and Sally Le Cheminant

SOCIETY Makeup your mind

SHAPING UP An expansion in beauty treatments means a bigger salon for The Brow Place, off Abbey Green in Bath.

It still offers its signature drop-in brow bar services, including threading, waxing and tinting, but now has three nail bars offering manicures and pedicures. The owners – mother and daughter team Amy and Sue Adams – held a launch party to showcase the new salon, and revealed they had done much of the decorating themselves.

“We have listened to our clients who have expressed a lot of interest in other treatments which we have decided to offer in our new salon,” says Amy.

Emma Frampton

Photos by Bonnie Rose www.bonnie-rose.co.uk

Amy and Sue Adams

Becci Foot and Rozi Hempstead

ADVENTURES IN SOUND

Ann-Marie James, John Law and Fiona Daymond

A special Bath Life event was held at Broad Street indie audio retailer Audience last month. Guests heard a talk from boss Andrew Craske and a range of superior audio on remarkable speakers, whether streamed, ripped or played from vinyl. The highlight was Lovehoney’s Neal Slateford playing his famous megahit remix of Suzanne Vega’s Tom’s Diner on the original (and unplayed) vinyl. Other guests included individuals from Rossiters, Novia, Woodhouse & Law, Flying Pig Renovation Company, Mytton Williams, Stonewood, Kersfield, Kaleidescope Collection, MediaClash and author Keith Stuart, who were joined by manufacturers Bowers & Wilkins and Naim, plus the Audience team.

Photos by SoulMedia www.soul-media.co.uk

Andrew Craske and Neal Slateford Sharon Paradise and Morag Stuart 26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Thinking of selling in 2018?

For a confidential chat call us on 01225 866747

Award-winning Estate Agent‌ Bradford on Avon and surrounding villages

Happy New Year!

Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire BA15 1LL info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk | www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

The Framing Workshop has been trading as an independent family run business on Walcot Street for over 28 years. We treasure you, our client, and spend time helping you to find the best way to display and protect your cherished objects, artworks and memorabilia. Creativity and respect for each artwork are core to what we do.

Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.

80 WALCOT STREET, BATH, BA1 5BD | TEL: 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com

A MAN’S WORLD

DAVID FLATMAN

TIRED OF BEING TIRED Flat’s ultimate New Year aim is to listen to his natural instincts and finally get some shut-eye

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read this fascinating article last week that described us as the generation that forgot to sleep. One point that struck a chord with me was that humans are the only animals that seem to fight one of the base natural instincts. When we’re hungry, we seek food. When it’s raining, we seek shelter.

When we’re tired, we smash a coffee in or dig in for another episode of Silent Witness. It’s odd and, since reading it, I’ve noticed myself doing it almost daily.

Just yesterday, I had that gorgeous feeling of waking up and remembering that my day’s work in London had been cancelled and that, post-school run, I was as free as a very large bird. Having not got back from London until the early hours, my daughters’ wake-up call was particularly savage and I promised myself out loud that I’d be back in this bed by 9am. But then a delivery came, and then our wonderful cleaner let herself in and we had a brew, and then I remembered that I am fat so decided to do the right thing and get my carcass to CrossFit. So it’s midday and I’m home alone. I’ve inhaled my Intermezzo baguette (and a chocolate treat that I earned at the gym), and I’ve not one thing to do before 5pm. A quick check of my emails and suddenly it’s 1pm. A quick coffee and a flick around on Twitter while still in my sweaty gym gear and it’s 1.30. Then a conference call about an upcoming event, then a text from a friend asking if I’d seen the latest episode of Peaky Blinders, effectively forcing me to watch it... you get the point. No sleep. A four-hour sleep followed up by a refusal to catch up the next day.

As I write this, I am indeed in bed. There are two sleeping beauties next to me (one of whom is a regular but welcome invader), and it is 5.36am. This is fully two hours earlier than my body likes to wake, but my to-do list leaves me no choice. I will soon be on the train to London, where I will be on the go until the early hours of tomorrow, before repeating that the following day. Now, the standard excuse for being exhausted is one’s schedule, but I just don’t buy it. My schedule can be demanding, but I so often do the precise opposite of what my working body requires to cope with it; I just refuse to sleep, but why?

“I just want an actual evening,” is one of my favourite ways in which to justify getting home a broken man and not just going upstairs to shower and sleep. “I’ll have a kip this avo,” is a lie I regularly trot out, too. I think I – or we – skip sleep through a fear of missing out. Admittedly, doing nothing but working and sleeping is dull, but sometimes it needs to be done. Missing out on a couple of hours of Netflix, or on that shared coffee with a friend, or that vile gym session – is it really worth it? I reckon no. Over the next month or so I’m going to do my best to sleep whenever I’m sleepy and it’s reasonable to do so. I shan’t sleep at work, but I will come home from work and walk upstairs. I shan’t skip the gym, but I will doze afterwards instead of inventing chores to complete. No more kip-skipping. Have a go!

WHEN WE’RE TIRED, WE SMASH A COFFEE IN OR DIG IN FOR ANOTHER EPISODE OF SILENT WITNESS

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

INSIDE S T O RY

The BRIGHT SIDE

JEWELLERY IS WORN TO DECORATE THE BODY, JUST AS LIGHTING IS CREATED TO DRESS A SPACE

Lighting – whether it be jewellery-inspired or quirky and charming – is a key trend for 2018’s interiors. Here, PHILIPPA MAY tells us about her favourite fresh concepts

T

he New Year is traditionally all about creating resolutions that mostly revolve around healthier eating and upping your exercise routine with a new boxing class, but, as usual, I’m looking at the New Year trend reports to figure out how to rejig my tired interiors. I get bored with stuff easily and I like to be constantly thinking about new ideas and projects to start (whether they ever get finished is irrelevant).

I did more shopping – and by this I mean physical shopping – in December than I did throughout the rest of the year combined.

Usually I have so little free time I tend to scour the internet for prime buys, but gift-shopping never feels quite right unless you’re shoulder-barging your way through the high street for hours, only to bring home one present, and a whole host of new stuff for yourself, of course. With so much time spent around Bath recently, I discovered some absolutely amazing pieces that will be perfect for the new trends of 2018, and the first on my list is some fun LED lighting.

Add a Vegas edge to a room with this wall-mounted display from Graham and Green on Walcot Street

It might sound a bit childish (cue flashbacks to teenage bedrooms) but this new idea is taking the interiors world by storm.

Designers are beginning to play with lighting in a whole new way, breaking traditionalism and exploring a new relationship between lighting and fashion. What?! I hear you say. Yep, there has always been a strong relationship between interiors and fashion, so it’s no surprise that this year jewellery has begun to inspire lighting more, resulting in some incredible fresh concepts. The fluidity of necklaces, metals and pendants is being reimagined into amazing lamps and ceiling lights. Jewellery is worn to decorate the body, just as lighting is created to drape and dress a space, so the connection is bolder than I first thought.

Advances in lighting technology, especially in LEDs, has meant that previously unattainable designs are now a reality, and this has made for an exciting development in how we use lights in interior spaces. With many new benefits such as lifespan, colour-quality and improved energy (heat) efficiency, to name a few, LEDs have enabled designers to work more creatively with their designs and material use – check out Michael Anastassiades for FLOS; his beautiful pieces are the epitome of pendant-inspired fluid lighting concepts that would look extremely stand-out yet un-fussy hanging from a tall ceiling.

Single statement pendants can be placed alone or draped together to create different vibes that create impact and ambiance at the same time. If you’re keen to recreate these ideas, I’ve found some perfect examples in Bath to inspire, and top of my list for a fun revamp is the Neon Amour Art Light from Graham and Green on Walcot Street. It’s perfect to bring a bit of quirky charm to the bedroom, especially paired with a Boston bed from Brissi on Milsom Street.

If you want to try something bolder with lighting in the new year but this kind of thing is a bit too contemporary for you, then Felix Lighting has the most amazing pieces; and, with brass set to be big this year, I have been eyeing up their chunky metal pieces. Try their metre-long Aged Brass Wall Light – this would look stunning against a deep, dark wall above an emerald green Havory Snuggler chair by Silcox Son & Wicks – perfect for an intimate study or living room. So, forget the new gym membership and get feng shui-ing; moving all that furniture about is pretty much the same workout anyway...

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and brand creative manager for accessories label Abbott Lyon. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_

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H E A LT H & WELLNESS

IT HAD TO BE NEW 30 small ways to better yourself – from wardrobe makeovers to starting a new hobby – as told by local experts…

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018 is upon us and many people will be indulging in retrospection and reevaluating some of their life choices. January is a good time to sit down and prepare a list of important lifestyle adjustments you want to make, so here we talk to local experts in their fields – including fitness professionals, chefs, beauticians and herbalists – to discover what exciting changes we can make this year to better ourselves.

ALL ABOUT YOU Reinvent yourself

If you’re not happy with something, change it. The way you dress can say a lot about you, and wearing the right clothes can give you a huge confidenceboost, says Bath-based personal stylist and image consultant Michelle Sanfilippo.

“I believe reinventing your style is a great way to start off the year,” she says. “It’s a fresh start to the way you look at yourself. It’s great to be able to help women feel confident. I travel to clients’ houses for colour analysis and wardrobe consultations; most of them want a complete makeover, especially if they have lost their fashion mojo, had a change of job, lost 34 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

By L I SA E VA NS weight, or are bored of the ‘same old’.

“My advice to those seeking a new style would be to just go for it, be brave, be confident, be openminded, and always, always dress for yourself. And find some lovely shops in which to spend your money – my favourites are Grace & Ted, Scarlet Vintage, DuoBoots and Grace & Mabel.”

BE BRAVE, BE CONFIDENT, BE OPEN-

MINDED

Have more ‘me’ time

Taking time out is precious. But trying to strike a balance is essential to a modern-day busy lifestyle. Look after yourself, and looking after others becomes easier, says Katherine Spreadbury, founder of LittleLAB on Broad Street, Bath. “At the salon, it’s all about the face, nails, lashes and brows,” she says. “We have reached 3,000 on our confidence-boosting makeup workshops this year, and I feel really proud of all our students.

Our airbrush makeup means that you can get a completed look in minutes.”

HEALTH

Try detoxing

Nutritional therapist Maria Bez at Nourish – a centre on Gay Street, Bath, that helps people find

H E A LT H & WELLNESS says Vicki Mowat, one half of the husband and wife team that heads up Riverford Bath. “We believe in keeping it simple – eat more veg, cook from scratch and reduce all the processed stuff. New for 2018, we’ll be launching a new juicing bag which will include recipe cards and ingredients, with different recipes each week. For example, there might be kale, apple, celery and cucumber, or carrot, apple, orange and turmeric.”

Go natural

relief from their health problems with nutrition and kinesiology – says to try overnight fasting for a new healthy regime. “You do this by having dinner and then waiting 14 hours before having breakfast,” she says. “This has been shown to help weight loss, control blood sugar, give you more energy and reduce inflammation.” She also suggests making small and manageable changes to your diet, such as increasing your vegetable intake by including one extra vegetable in your evening meal, having midweek alcohol-free days or ensuring you include some protein (eggs, nuts, seeds, or meat) for breakfast to keep your energy levels balanced.

Above: Rebecca Bridgford regularly teaches yoga at The Gainsborough Bath Spa; below: at Pukka Herbs, the benefits of adaptogens are well-known

Going organic may make the world of difference to how you feel. “The connection between what we ingest and wellbeing is common knowledge,” says medical herbalist Katie Pande at global business Pukka Herbs, the co-founder of which, Sebastian Pole, is based at Neal’s Yard Remedies Therapy Rooms in Bath. “A healthy diet helps us feel good, and a poor-quality diet leads to illness.

“If people want to ease their way into a healthy regime, our top advice would be to try organic,” she adds. “Organic foods don’t contain any of the nasty chemicals that processed foods do and are instead packed full of healthy nutrients. A good diet gives us an easy, everyday opportunity to take control of health and what better time to set this intention than at the start of the year?

“For 2018, turmeric will continue to make waves in the healthy world, as it is an adaptogen – a herb or plant which adapts to the needs of your body without negative side effects. Lesser known but equally important adaptogens shatavari and ashwagandha – associated with balancing female hormones and reducing stress respectively – are growing in awareness, and for good reason.”

Enrich your life

“Embracing a new skill or activity at any time of year is a powerful way to introduce a different dimension to your life, says Sharon Love, general manger of Combe Grove – a hotel, restaurant and wellness facility on Brassknocker Hill, Bath. “Whether you spend an hour trying a yoga class or dedicate weeks w

Look after yourself

It’s always important to look after yourself and take time out of a hectic schedule to treat, pamper and care for yourself. “We offer a range of therapies, including massage and reflexology,” says AnneMarie Rose, a complementary therapist at Rose Holistic Treatments on Avondale Road, Bath.

“I’m particularly passionate about supporting carers and people affected by domestic violence.”

Introduce one new recipe a week

We all know how much better we feel when we feed ourselves with good stuff rather than rubbish, but salads everyday are boring. There’s so much fun to be had with fresh ingredients and tasty recipes. We recently gave Riverford Bath a go. It’s a delivery service which brings you seasonal, organic vegetables and other groceries direct to your home.

“We’re not big fans of dieting trends as they’re often based on flimsy evidence, put out by non-specialists,” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

H E A LT H & WELLNESS to learning a craft, it’s an opportunity to get involved in your community and meet like-minded people.

“With 76 acres of woodland, it’s a peaceful place to retreat from the city and enjoy breathtaking views of the Limpley Stoke Valley,” she adds. “We are a growing community that provides learning experiences for local people and are working to create a space in which everyone can explore and improve their wellbeing.

“In Spring 2018, we will be introducing an enriching programme of seasonal events, including a series of talks and workshops from local craftspeople, wildlife and nature specialists and charities. We’ll be looking to the grounds and gardens to discover our natural surroundings and heritage, along with music and film nights. Our wellness facilities have everything you need to improve your physical wellbeing, such as one-to-one yoga and personal training sessions, holistic treatments, as well as a varied timetable of small studio classes.”

Eat well

There’s eating well, then there’s eating to be well.

“Even if a condition like heart disease or diabetes runs in your family, you can do a lot to break that pattern,” says Maria Bez at Nourish. “Lifestyle choices make a big difference. Some genes lead to disease, but, for most people, a healthy lifestyle trumps inherited risk.”

“2018’s foodie trends will start with Veganuary – inspiring people to try vegan for January. Who wouldn’t want to save the planet, be kind to animals and improve their health? But not everyone wants to go that far, so I predict that we’ll see a growth in flexitarians: people who cut down on meat.

“The other trend to watch is the growth in fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, which will be more widely available. Natural fermentation of foods has been shown to preserve nutrients and break the food down to a more digestible form. This, along with the bevy of probiotics created during the fermentation process, could explain the link between consumption of fermented foods and improved digestion and general health.”

Above: Noya’s Kitchen Vietnamese cooking classes tick all the right boxes; below: Riverford delivers seasonal, organic groceries direct to your home

The power of sleep is often underestimated, especially when binging on your latest Netflix obsession seems more important (our columnist Flats agrees on page 29). Sleep makes you feel better, but its significance goes way beyond just boosting your mood or banishing under-eye circles. It’s a key part of a healthy lifestyle, and can benefit your heart, weight and mind. You should be gunning for at least eight hours a night, and there are treatments you can have regularly to help, such as acupressure facials and aroma-massage, both available at Rose Holistic Treatments in Bath.

Hydrate

IF YOU

DON’T TRY NEW THINGS, LIFE’S JUST A BIT

BORING ISN’T IT?

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

Catch more Zs

Drinking at least two litres of water a day has a huge array of health benefits, but if you just can’t handle all of that plain H2O, Katie Pande at Pukka Herbs suggests giving oolong tea a go. “If you want a natural ingredient to help with burning fat, oolong is the greatest of all teas for activating thermogenesis (fat-burning), increasing metabolism, and is known in Asia as a great tea for naturally supporting weight loss. We would also suggest trying a simple swap of coffee to green tea, as caffeine has a dehydrating effect on the body.”

Take care

This year, commit to seeing your doctor when you need to, keep up with dental checks and look after your eyes. Staying healthy should be your top priority, but many people seem to put looking after themselves on the backburner. Regular checkups are a must, as Brad Abrahams at Brad Abrahams Optometry on Upper Borough Walls, Bath, explains.

“Life in 2018 will be so much better when you can see perfectly clearly. Why buy a 4K hi-def 50-inch TV and watch it without having crystalclear vision?” he says. “I invest in the most advanced eye examination equipment to deliver the best eye examination possible to look after the health of my clients’ eyes; due to this, I now sit among the top one per cent out of over 7,000 practices in the UK.” w

H E A LT H & WELLNESS FITNESS Shape up

Losing weight is one of the top resolutions people make year in, year out. It’s easy enough to start an exercise and diet program, but the trick is to remember the reason you wanted to do this in the first place, as Bath-based Ben Hughes, the co-founder of Trinity Transformation – an online personal coaching business – explains.

“In my experience, simply saying ‘I want to get fit and healthy’ is rarely enough to help someone stay committed for long enough to see permanent changes,” he says. “Often, people will start out with good intentions and see results, only to fall off the wagon and undo all their hard work later in the year.

“Losing weight affects so much more than the way you look in the mirror – it’s everything from your self-confidence, your relationships, and how you interact with your kids. If there was one thing I could encourage people to do differently in 2018, it would be to think deeper into why getting fit matters to them personally – whether that’s to feel more in control of their life, to be able to wear whatever they like, or to have more energy to play with their children; these deeper goals are what lead people to make permanent change to their lives.”

Above: Combe Grove is a space in which everyone can explore and improve their wellbeing; below: Bath College’s Love2learn courses include everything from art to languages

Get outdoors

Zita Alves – a personal and group trainer who specialises in outdoor exercise in Bath, and runs Zest Bootcamp – says you don’t have to go to a gym to get a great workout. “One thing that many of our members love, is boxing – it’s a great cardio workout and boosts your confidence and strength.

“My top advice to those who hate the gym, is: look at how much movement you have in your day.

Could you use the stairs more at work or when out and about, for example? Our bodies are the only places we have to live, and no-one else can do it for us. Being fit and healthy affects absolutely every part of our lives. Most healthy, successful business people prioritise their workouts for the morning because they know they will be more productive.

“Also, we all benefit from accountability, so being part of a group really helps with exercise adherence.

The camaraderie and support that people give each

START

RUNNING, CROSSDRESSING OR PAINTING

NUDES;

YOU NEVER KNOW, YOU COULD FIND YOURSELF

FALLING UNEXPECTEDLY IN LOVE

WITH SOMETHING

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

other is a huge part of why people enjoy the team classes, and also it can push you to work harder than you do on your own.”

Challenge yourself

Push yourself to try new challenges, such as running the Bath Half Marathon (there’s still time to train).

“The key to a successful resolution is an achievable target,” says Lynne Fernquest, CEO of Bath Rugby Foundation. “So, for everyone who woke up on 1 January determined to make 2018 the year to get active, the good news is there’s the perfect diary date on the horizon: the Bath Half Marathon. Every year, thousands of people run it for the first time, ticking the achievement off the bucket list and getting in great shape at the same time.”

General entry places sold out long ago, but charities such as Bath Rugby Foundation still have places on the start line available and will help you with the training ahead of the big day.

On your bike

“Cycling can be a great resolution to make, as it gets easier as the year goes on,” says Damola Johnson at Johns Bikes – where you’ll find a wide range of bikes, clothing, parts and accessories – on Walcot Street, Bath. “But who says resolutions need to be made in January? March is one of our big months for cycleto-work sales, so maybe a smart resolution is to wait until then, or have it as a back-up resolution, if the others fail!

“As with any resolution, what target you set yourself needs to be realistic,” Damola adds. “It may be that you cycle to work once a week, maybe using an e-bike to make it even more achievable. For a regular cyclist, it could be an event – Bike Bath in July would be perfect. Or set yourself a target of how often you go cycling each month or how many miles.

Borrow a bike from us before you decide.”

Add, don’t take away

Resolutions are so often about giving up something you enjoy, so, flip that on its head and add more to your life. “I’m always an advocate of adding things rather than removing them, so if someone was to make one simple change, I’d advise that they start exercising,” says Ben at Trinity Transformation. “The key to seeing results is to focus on building habits

that you enjoy instead of something you dread, so start with three 20-minute sessions per week and increase from there. Don’t be too worried about what exercise you are doing initially, just focus on actually doing it.”

Lifestyle changes Digital detox

Social media has become a serious addiction among a wide range of demographics. It’s fine to stay in touch with friends and family, but if you consistently spend more than an hour a day on social media (unless it’s for your job), it’s time to make a change.

“People seem to spend so much time on their phones, laptops and other devices these days,” says Anne-Marie Rose at Rose Holistic Treatments. “I would recommend a digital detox. Social media can affect mental health, contribute to anxiety and change how we feel about ourselves, so put your phones down and go outside into nature and enjoy looking up, not down.”

Help others

To give your time, energy and money to helping those in need is a noble gesture and a reward in itself, says Rachel Jones, head of fundraising and communications at Bath Cats and Dogs Home – which rescues over 1,400 animals each year – in Claverton Down.

“We’re a local charity that relies on the support of the community,” she says. “It costs over £1.4m a year to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome the animals in our care, with many needing life-saving surgery. Not only this, but we work within the local community to educate on responsible pet ownership, and, where possible, work with owners to help keep loved pets in their homes.

“If you’re thinking about getting a pet in 2018, adopt, don’t shop,” she adds. “We would encourage anyone that is looking for a new pet to consider a rescue. There are so many animals – cats, dogs, rabbits and even the odd ferret – looking for a home.

“We’ll match you with your perfect pet, and, if you adopt, the great thing is you’ll know so much about them already as our behaviourists assess all their individual needs. You’ll also benefit from the expert advice of our re-homers and vets. Rescue pets really do change our lives for the better, pets bring so much laughter and happiness to our homes and knowing you’ve also saved them, well what better feeling can you get?”

Money

Start saving

It can be hard to save money, especially in the current period of economic uncertainty, but if you save regularly (no matter how much) you will quickly find that your savings add up and keep growing, as Anna Bowes – director of Savings Champion, savings advice services, on Lower Bristol Road, Bath – explains.

“Get into the habit, and, before you know it, you’ll have become more financially secure and have a

From the top: If you’re thinking about getting a pet in 2018, Bath Cats and Dogs Home has many animals needing love and care, including Frankie, pictured; Bath-based personal stylist Michelle Sanfilippo says reinventing your look is a great way to start off the year

safety net in case of an emergency,” she says. “While it is true that interest rates are low, moving away from the high-street banks can make a meaningful difference to the amount you can earn on your savings. “You can get up to 28 times more in interest each year. Over the last six years, we have developed an enviable reputation for being a true saver’s champion – so whether you have £50 or £5m to deposit in cash, we want everyone to benefit from improving the return on their savings.

“It’s never too late or early to get into the savings habit,” she adds. “So, whether you are teaching your children to save up for the latest toy, or you’re starting to think about your retirement, everyone can have a saving goal.

“Start by making a list of all your monthly outgoings. Then, look at areas where savings can be made. For example, buying a coffee at £2.60 every working day of the year costs a staggering £676; a Netflix subscription adds up to £107.88, while having a takeaway on a Friday night comes to £545.48 per year; and buying yourself a meal for every working day racks up a massive £780 over 12 months. If you were to cut out all this spending, you would have an extra £2,469.24 in your pocket, which you could put into a savings account. If you put this lump sum into the best-paying accounts right now, you would get a pretty decent return.”

Spend wisely

“Remember Mr Micawber’s famous recipe for happiness: ‘Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen [pounds] nineteen [shillings] and six [pence] result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds. Annual expenditure twenty pounds ought and six, result misery’,” says Bill Vasilieff, CEO of Novia Financial – a wealth management service for investment advisers and their clients. “If you are solvent, you are happy, if you are insolvent, it is misery – it really is that straightforward.

“It’s always worth having something put aside  www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39

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

DEEP BREATHS YOGADOO’s Lucy Aston explains why the correct breathing technique is the most important lesson your child can learn

A

s we step into spring, many children and young people will face revision and exams. Lucy Aston, founder of YOGADOO and winner of the Best Health business Bath Life Awards 2017, teaches yoga and mindfulness to children and young people across Bath and has the following advice. “We breathe 20,000-30,000 times a day, and the quality of our breath affects how we feel,” explains Lucy. “Try to notice and improve the quality of your breath, sitting comfortably – preferably somewhere quiet, use these breathing exercises to help relax the body and mind.”

BELLY BREATHING

“Place one hand on your chest and the other on the belly, take a deep breath in through the nose, ensuring the diaphragm (not the chest) inflates enough to create a stretch in the lungs. Exhale through the mouth and feel your hand moving as you take nice deep breaths.”

PROGRESSIVE RELAXATION

“Start counting during your breaths, make your exhale progressively longer than your inhale. Start by breathing in for two seconds, hold for two and breathe out for four, then in for three, hold for three, out for six, and then breathe in for four, hold for four, and out for eight. Repeat.”

FINGER BREATHING

“Place your left hand in front of you (palm up), take the pointer finger of the right hand and trace the left hand from the bottom of the little finger to the top, down the other side. As you go up the finger, breathe in, as you go down each finger, breathe out. Do this for all fingers and thumb. Trace from the thumb and go back over the fingers to where you started. This is a really great exercise if someone is feeling particularly anxious. The connection of touching the hand, brings your attention inwards, and breaths get progressively longer which helps calm the mind.”

Founded in 2016, YOGADOO teaches yoga and mindfulness to children and young people through fun, non-spiritual, accessible and engaging sessions.

YOGADOO trains teachers how to use yoga and mindfulness in the classroom and runs classes for children from four years old through to working with teenagers approaching GCSE and A-levels. It also runs holiday clubs, family events and offers private tuition to children or families together.

Contact Lucy on lucy@yogadoo.co.uk or visit the website www.yogadoo.co.uk for more information.

H E A LT H & WELLNESS spa members have become friends, because they share the same interest in wellbeing, nutrition and fitness.”

Reduce stress

for a rainy day,” he adds. “Once you are in debt, it’s very hard to get out of it. We work through financial advisers; our advice would be get a financial check-up from your local independent financial adviser. Get a good grip on what your outgoings are, realise how much spare cash you have, and don’t fritter money away.”

MIND

Think positive

“If you tell yourself you can’t do something, you likely won’t be able to,” says Emma Hughes, founder of GURU – an alternative and holistic health service offering prescriptive yoga classes to address specific wellbeing issues, as well as workshops and mini retreats which combine yoga and meditation with healthy eating and creativity. “Our thoughts are everything; it’s very easy for our thoughts to spiral out of control and start telling us things that just aren’t true.

“There are no quick fixes with the body or the mind,” she adds. “But there’s a plethora of tools us yoga, meditation and mindfulness teachers use to help students feel balanced and well. And the best news is, you don’t have to sit for hours in the lotus pose sniffing incense to get there. We’re not preachy, we accept ourselves and clients as we are. We’re about enhancing and improving our clients’ physical and emotional wellbeing in an easy-to-digest way, that fits in with their lives. Feeling good is addictive.”

Be calm

Emma at GURU advises to notice your breath when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. “The breath is usually the first thing to be affected by a stressful situation,” she says. “It will often speed up and become shallow. Counteract this by focusing on taking slow, long deep inhalations in and out through the nose. Really feel the lungs filling with air as you inhale and empty the air right the way down into the pit of your belly as you exhale. My favourite Zen proverb is “You should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day — unless you’re too busy. Then you should sit for an hour.”

LIFE IS A BIG, FULL, JUMBLED

SUPERMARKET OF EXPERIENCES,

SO BE

ADVENTUROUS

Above: Experts at Johns Bikes in Bath say cycling can be a great resolution to make, as it gets easier as the year goes on; below: Theatre Royal Bath’s Engage programme runs a year-round diary of imaginative, participatory projects

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS Get creative

There are times when we get mentally fatigued and our creativity just goes out of the window. The Theatre Royal Bath’s Engage programme runs a year-round diary of imaginative, participatory and community-based projects for adults of any background and any level of experience.

“Think professional-standard theatre-making is for the privileged few?” says Joe Spurgeon, Engage coordinator. “Think again. There is simply no other arts organisation that offers such a comprehensive programme of theatre-based activities for adults. And I don’t just mean locally, I mean nationwide. Plus, you get access to Theatre Royal Bath’s three theatres.

“If you don’t try new things, life’s just a bit boring isn’t it?” he adds. “If you always eat peas, how do you know a carrot wouldn’t be the most delicious thing you could ever imagine? Life is a big, full, jumbled supermarket of experiences, so be adventurous, sign up to a new course or try volunteering; start running, cross-dressing or painting nudes; do anything – find what you don’t like, and what you do, and, you never know, you could find yourself falling completely and unexpectedly in love with something.

“We’ll be running one of our biggest-ever programmes in 2018 – nearly a decade on from when we first began – with courses on theatre w

Meditation is said to help improve your focus, and The Gainsborough Bath Spa’s ‘meditation in motion’ and wellness classes may boost concentration and hone mental skills, says spa manager Kabir Aliri.

“We offer tai chi, yoga, and Aquasana courses,” he says. “With its history as a hospital, wellness is in the very bones of this building. The tai chi and yoga classes take place in our light-filled chapel, which lends the sessions a lovely calming ambience. And the Aquasana class takes place in natural thermal waters – The Gainsborough is the only place in the country you can experience this. The heat of the water is brilliant for stiff or aching joints, and the rich mineral content works wonders on the skin, hair and bones.

“Some people get as much out of the social interaction of a health or fitness group as they do from the health and exercise,” he adds. “Many of our www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

H E A LT H & WELLNESS acting and directing, two separate year-long theatremaking programmes, concluding with a community production here at Theatre Royal Bath under our ‘Theatre School’ banner, plus a chance to improve your singing skills and perform in an original piece of vocal theatre. All that alongside our regular playreading group, a book club-style Theatregoers’ Club, a monthly Writers’ Group and all sorts of masterclasses and weekend projects on theatre design, improvisation, learning how to be a producer, acting for camera and much, much more.”

Meet new people

When we get stuck in a rut, we miss out on interesting opportunities for networking and having fun. Meeting new people can be beneficial to your mental wellbeing, so don’t be afraid to get out there.

Just a few of the groups you can join in Bath include: trapeze, aerial silks and pole dancing at The Funky Monkey Studio; knitting and Saturday sketching courses at the Fashion Museum; history tours at the Roman Baths; and sweaty sessions at The Pilates Quarter.

If you can’t stand the thought of a gym, Zest Bootcamp trainer Zita Alves suggests getting active outdoors

Find a new hobby

Taking up a hobby or learning a new craft can motivate and inspire you, as you spend time doing something completely different from your dayto-day routine. Booking on a course is something to look forward to, and being able to take time out can give you a different perspective on life, so says Anna Dawson, Love2learn co-ordinator at Bath College.

“Love2learn is our range of adult leisure courses, offered part-time over evenings, daytime and weekends,” she says. “We offer a wide range of subjects from art, floristry and property maintenance to languages, ceramics, photography, and catering.

People can progress in a subject area, and even take a qualification in their chosen interest. Our courses give people a chance to explore creatively, meet people with similar interests and challenge themselves in a new way.”

Immerse yourself in culture

Make 2018 the year you open yourself up to arts, music and culture, which, happily, is all on your doorstep in creative Bath.

“The New Year is a good time to reflect, make new connections and to experience, first-hand, the link between art and wellbeing,” says Chris Stephens, director of The Holburne Museum on Great Pulteney Street, Bath. “We know that joining in, whether it’s attending a lecture or a workshop, makes people feel good. The Holburne believes in changing lives through art. We encourage everyone – from our youngest participants in our early years’ classes, to our volunteers in their late 80s – to participate in fun hands-on art activities and to learn new creative skills. Through our community-engagement work, particularly Pathways to Wellbeing, we also know the hugely beneficial impact that engagement with the arts has with those who have experienced mental health issues and loneliness.

“Our exhibitions change every couple of months and are incredibly varied,” he adds. “We start 2018 42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

with the first museum retrospective of the work of Anthony Fry, local to Bath for 60 years, but inspired by his travels to capture the landscapes, colours and cultures of Tuscany, Morocco and India.”

Jon Benington, manager at the Victoria Art Gallery on Bridge Street, adds, “We promise to open your eyes and feed your mind with new art experiences – from the story of Bath as a centre for entertainment, to Kaffe Fassett’s gorgeously coloured quilts and the bold designs of Clifford and Rosemary Ellis. Prepare to be enveloped in colour, pattern and animation.”

TRY SOMETHING NEW Sing when you’re winning

SINGING HAS PROVEN HEALTH BENEFITS AND IS

ALWAYS UPLIFTING

Jane Harris, director at Songways choir in Bath, says singing has proven health benefits and is always uplifting. “I lead the choir on Wednesday evenings in the beautiful setting and acoustics of St Swithin’s Church. Adult singers of all ages welcome. Leave your working day behind, lift your voice and immerse yourself in glorious harmonies of British and Irish folk songs, lively rhythmic American songs, rich South African choruses, vibrant Eastern European songs and powerful freedom tunes. It will make you feel good, and it’ll be fun, heart-warming, soothing and, at times, deeply moving.

Learn to cook

Cooking is an essential life skill, so why not get better at it? “Life is a journey, and it’s a much more interesting journey when you’re trying new things and learning along the way, especially in the company of others,” says Daniel Pawlyn, business partner, at Noya’s Kitchen on St James’s Parade, Bath.

“Noya’s Vietnamese cooking classes tick all the right boxes: authentic, fun, delicious and life-enhancing.

You’ll come away with new skills, new friends, and the ability to create wonderfully authentic Vietnamese dishes for your family.

“Vietnamese food culture is based on ordering and sharing dishes amongst friends, which is pretty harmonious as no-one gets food envy,” he adds.

“Noya’s cooking classes reflect that, so are informal, inclusive and fun – and a great way to meet and likeminded people.”

Stick to it

Make a goal, whatever that may be, and stick to it until it just becomes a natural part of who you are.

That’s how you achieve true self improvement.

BATH’S HOTTEST YOGA STUDIO A warm welcome awaits you at our award winning Yoga studio. We offer a range of styles and classes to suit all levels and physical needs. So whether you want to increase flexibility, work on strength or calm a busy mind, we have the class just for you!

HOT YOGA

Practised in a studio heated to 28-30 degrees, our own unique Hot Yoga allows muscles to stretch more deeply and safely. It is truly invigorating and generates a wonderful glow from head to toe.

Upcoming January Workshops THE FACE YOGA METHOD WORKSHOP WITH DANIELLE COLLINS Friday 19th January 19.30 - 21.30

FORREST YOGA

A powerful and therapeutic style of Yoga specifically designed for 21st Century living and is renowned as an intensely physical and internally focused practice.

RESTORATIVE YOGA

A gentle, restorative class consisting of passive poses, using props to support the body to promote deep relaxation. Originally created by B.K.S. Iyengar to help people who were either sick or injured to recuperate, each pose is held for a minimum of 10 minutes. Accompanied with yoga nidra teachniques, this class is a good antidote to stress.

HATHA YOGA

A more traditional and gentle practise based on movement with the breath and body awareness.

Visit www.bathyogastudio.com or call us on 01225 313153 Bath Yoga Studio, Norfolk Buildings, James Street West, Bath, BA1 2BT

HEARTS, HIPS AND HAPPINESS WINTER WONDERLAND WORKSHOP WITH BEX BRIDGFORD Saturday 20th January 14.00 - 16.30

DETOX AND REJUVENATION WORKSHOP WITH DIANE LEE Saturday 27th January 14.00 - 16.30

A heavenly Bath based skincare boutique shop and destination beauty salon 33 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BN T: 01225 446836 E: theduchess@duchessbeauty.co.uk www.duchessbeauty.co.uk

Facial Treatments Brows & Lashes Massage & Holistic Therapies Slimming, Toning & Body Pamper Waxing & Threading Nails, Hands & Feet Treatments for Him

a d v e r t ising feat u r e f i t n e s s

Gym Alternative that Saves New Year’s Resolutions and Money Getting fit this new year has never been easier. john’s bikes explain how

A

s you consider how you are going to keep those healthy New Year’s resolutions, we can suggest a simple way to do it – including maybe saving you money as well.

Gym membership can be costly, we know that. Also, we won’t go as often as we say we will, we know that too… if we’re honest.

Cycling on the other hand has been described as a ‘gym on wheels but without the monthly cost’.

Commute to a fitter you

Get to work by bike and that’s your gym time done for the day – gym time not required and New Year resolution upheld! Okay, in winter cycling to work isn’t that attractive, but with spring on the way - now is the time to investigate your company’s cycle to work scheme, with the possibility of you saving up to 42 per cent off the cost of a new bike and kit.

John’s Bikes offers Bath’s most extensive range

of bikes, parts, clothing and accessories and accepts almost all cycle to work schemes (inc.

Halfords!). It is also Bath’s premier retail partner for an innovative new cycle to work scheme that has done away with the £1,000 spend limit: choose an eBike to get to work without breaking a sweat.

Try before you buy

Not commuting? A bike can also be a wonderful way for time with family or out with friends.

Whatever you choose, it’s important to get the right bike for what you want to do. “Our staff take pride in giving great advice, taking time to understand someone’s needs,” says Lyle Finlay, John’s Bikes managing director, “And we offer test rides on our bikes, even 48-hour demos.”

So, before you sign that monthly standing order for the gym, think about the alternative. Even if you don’t keep to your New Year’s resolution, with a bike you can enjoy it for years after you’ve have cancelled that gym subscription.

82-84 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BD 01225 581666; www.johnsbikes.co.uk

ON the RUN

Hear the stories of three women who have signed up to this year’s Bath Half Marathon…

By E V E LY N GR E E N Photo s by T I M WOOL F

Olivia, Phoebe and Emma are all taking on the Bath Half for loved ones they’ve lost

F

ifteen thousand people are currently preparing to line up on 4 March to run the Bath Half Marathon, which we are proud to be media partner for. It’s one of the largest half marathons in the country, the biggest single-day charity fundraiser in the South West, and the event sells out every year. Here we catch up with three of the runners to fi nd out why they’re challenging themselves and who they are doing it for.

The Bath Half Marathon takes place on 4 March.

For more information, visit www.bathhalf.co.uk 46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

MY MUM WAS SUCH AN

IMPORTANT WOMAN; SHE WAS ALWAYS THERE TO RAISE MONEY AND SUPPORT CHARITIES WHENEVER SHE COULD

B AT H H A L F

EMMA KING-JONES

Emma will be running to raise money for Dorothy House Hospice, who cared for her wife, Claire, who sadly died in 2016 after a short battle with a rare form of cancer at the age of 32. Running was never Emma’s passion, in fact, it was only when she met Claire while teaching in London that she first laced up a pair of trainers and trained for a 10K run.

“In the past, I always made excuses for not running because I am asthmatic, but Claire encouraged me to give it a go,” she says. “When I first started running with her, I was such a whinger, whereas she was always fit and happy.

But I soon began to love it and now I find it a great way to de-stress. After running a few 10Ks, Claire encouraged me to train for the Bath Half; she had run it before and told me it was the best course (because it’s flat and the support is amazing), and she was not wrong.”

Emma and Claire originally signed up to the Bath Half together, but unfortunately Claire became too ill to run. Emma intends to do it on both their behalfs this year, and hopes to raise as much as she can for the place that cared for

OLIVIA DELLOW

Claire so well.

“People think of a hospice as somewhere for old people to go to die, and originally we did not want to go there,” says Emma. “Claire wanted to remain at home, but, in the end, to manage her pain, we decided it was best to be at the hospice.

“The staff at Dorothy House were amazing; not only did they care for Claire but they also looked after me, and our families when they visited. What’s different about hospice staff is they fully understand that they can’t patch you up and make you better, so they are entirely focused on looking after you. They seem to instinctively know what to do and when to do it. They are compassionate and kind and will do even the smallest thing if it makes your life easier.

“The hospice is a charity and fully relies on donations and fundraising to be able to continue its work,” she continues. “It is such an amazing place; we can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for Claire and our family.” www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ emma-king-jones1

Five years ago, Olivia lost her mum, Lizzie, to cancer. She was 41 and had been diagnosed with bile duct cancer only seven months prior. Two years later, tragically they lost her mother’s brother, Marcus, who suffered from a brain tumour, aged 40.

The last few years have been especially hard for Olivia and her close-knit family, having lost numerous loved ones in such a short space of time. However, Olivia is determined to commemorate her mum by running the Bath Half alongside a group of her closest friends.

Any money raised will be split between AMMF – the only charity in the UK that conducts research into bile duct cancer – and Dorothy House Hospice.

“We are running to raise awareness as much as funds, because bile duct cancer is relatively unknown and hard to identify and treat as the symptoms don’t necessarily indicate there is anything seriously wrong,” says Olivia. “Itchy skin, back pain and yellowing eyes were the only indications that Mum was ill. What is more worrying is that bile duct cancer is only thought to mainly affect men over 65, but that is not the case, and I have read accounts from many people who, like me, have lost people who do not fit that scenario. There is a need for more research and awareness.

“My mum was such an important and loved woman; she had completed the Bath Half twice and was always there to raise money and support charities whenever she could. It feels fitting for me to run in her memory and is a particularly good way to remember her five years after she died.”

While Olivia likes to play hockey and keep fit, she is not a longdistance runner, so she started her training months ago. “It is a huge challenge for me, and I have started running with a friend to ease myself in gently. I am determined and I look forward to crossing the finish line in March.”

PHOEBE MILHAM

Phoebe is swapping her beloved high heels for trainers to run to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society in memory of her grandad. Phoebe, who’s in her final year at Bath Spa University where she studies drama and media, says she was inspired to run having spectated at last year’s event and also because the lead charity is close to her heart – since her grandad passed away having suffered from Alzheimer’s for about 10 years.

“I am not a natural runner, but I have signed up and there is no going back now,” she says. “My little sister is helping me with my running, so I am gradually getting there, bit by bit. I watched all the runners taking part in 2017 and started thinking maybe I could do it, but it was only when I saw the main charity was Alzheimer’s Society I knew I had to run it.

“Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease, and I don’t think enough people are aware of the effect of it, so hopefully I can raise awareness and some money for the charity.” www.justgiving.com/fundraising/phoebe-milham1

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PICTURE of HEALTH IF YOU’RE MAKING 2018 THE YEAR YOU GET IN SHAPE, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, OR TRY A HEALTH KICK, THEN READ ON…

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1. SWEET TALK

2. THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT

3. ON TRACK

4. LET’S GET FIZZICAL

5. HELPING HAND

Sugar Free recipe book, £9.99 Processed food is loaded with sugar, and most people have no idea that they are over-consuming. Sugar Free features over 60 tasty recipes to help you feel amazing From Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk

Prima Donna sports bra, £82 With padded cups, strong, multi-way straps and a trendy mesh look, this bra maximises comfort while offering utmost sturdiness From The Dressing Room, 7 Quiet Street, Bath; www.dressingroombath. com

Activity tracker, £35 This funky little wristband monitors sleep patterns as well as calories burned, and comes with an app to record your achievements From Rossiters of Bath, 38 – 41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

Lemoss Natural Cloudy Prosecco, £16 Diets don’t mean having to give up wine. Try this one which is Iow in sulfites (reduced hangover) and has no added sugar (so a healthier option) From Wolf Wine, Green Park Station, Bath; www.wolfwine.co.uk

Hand Cream Trio, £44 Look after your skin with this luxurious collection of hand creams, including Lime Basil & Mandarin, Peony & Blush Suede, and English Pear & Freesia From Jo Malone, 6 – 7 Old Bond Street, Bath; www.jomalone.co.uk

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ED’S CHOICE

SHOPPING

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7. SHAKE IT UP

8. ACTIVE DUTY

9. THINK INSIDE THE BOX

10. HELLO, IT’S TEA

Aromaremedies roll-ons, £7 We’re fans of these therapeutic roll-ons – including one for headaches, one for travel sickness, and one for mindfulness From Bohobo Aromatherapies, Frome; www.bohoboaromatherapies. co.uk

Dry recipe book, £9.99 If you’re trying out Dry January, pick up Clare Liardet’s recipe book which is full of healthy, tasty and wildly adventurous mocktails From Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath, The Paragon, Bath; www.toppingbooks.co.uk

Vortex leggings, £95 If the gym is on your radar, these LNDR leggings should be on your shopping list. They allow for breathability and muscle-supporting high compression From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

Hand-burned chest, £45

Darjeeling white tea, £15 You’ll find this awardwinning tea, imported by Bath-based Deepali Gaskell, on the menu at Lucknam Park Hotel, but the caddies can also be bought to enjoy at home. Find it at the Bear Flat market on 20 January From Deepali’s Terroir, Bath; www.ifordmanorteas.co.uk

Independent maker Kirsty Holton hand-burns personalised, motivational mantras into lockable wooden chests, including this one which has a slot in which to post messages of motivation From The Burnt Tree, Bath; www.etsy.com

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ad v ertising feature D E N TA L C A R E

Paul HR Wilson, director of Bath Dental Clinic

Rebuilding Self-Confidence Wide-ranging specialist care is available at bath dental clinic

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Mr Paul HR Wilson (General Dental Council No: 72955) is the director of Bath Dental Clinic, as well as consultant in restorative dentistry at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, based at the John Radcliffe Hospital. There he is responsible for oral rehabilitation of head and neck cancer patients, and dental trauma. Paul also co-authored the international dental undergraduate textbook, Churchill's Clinical Dentistry.

Sarah offers:

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Catharine Cottage, 21 Catharine Place, Bath BA1 2PS 01225 333848 www.bathdentalclinic.co.uk

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JA NU 20 AR % YS OF A F E LE VE STA RY RT TH S IN 2ND G

ANTIQUE AND MODERN CARPETS BOUGHT, SOLD REPAIRED AND CLEANED 25 YEARS IN BATH LARGEST SELECTION IN THE SOUTH WEST

9 8 W A L C OT S T R E E T, B AT H B A 1 5 B G T E L 0 1 2 2 5 4 6 9 2 4 0 E M A I L C O N TA C T @ H A L I D E N . C O M W W W. H A L I D E N . CO M

Music/theatre/film/more

IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO

Former Strictly superstars Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace are dancing their way back to Bath with smoulderingly seductive show Tango Moderno.

The pair’s last show in Bath, in 2013, remains one of the best-selling in the theatre’s history, and it seems this sultry and atmospheric production is set to be the same.

The deftly-footed duo are regarded as among the best ballroom, Latin American and Argentine tango performers and choreographers in the UK, and will take centre stage from 29 January – 3 February.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

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PHOTO BY TOM BOWLES

PHOTO BY MATT CROCKETT

6 January – 2 February

The sweet Snow Mouse at the egg; mischievous wit from Shappi Khorsandi; precise movement from the Richard Alston Dance Company at the Theatre Royal Bath

Exhibitions U N TI L 7 J ANUARY

vision, expressed in this series of extraordinary paintings inspired by the cook, delves into the world of the subconscious and mysterious.

The ingredients are ironic and mystical, the impact disturbing and humorous.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

HOWARD HODGKIN: INDIA ON PAPER Until his recent death, Howard Hodgkin, one of the foremost artists of our time, nurtured positive relations with the city-centre gallery through exhibitions and acquisitions.

This unique exhibition celebrates these connections whilst exploring his love affair with India, which he visited for the first time in 1964.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

U N TI L 7 JA N UAR Y

U N TI L 7 J ANUARY

U N TI L 1 8 JA N UAR Y

WILLIAM ROSE: THE DEVIL MADE THE COOK The Bath-based artist’s

WINTER WONDERLAND Enjoy the spirit of winter with this ever-changing selection of new work, plus festive decorations, cards and jewellery.

The Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk ART AT THE HEART OF THE RUH This exhibition showcases the

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artistic talents of hospital staff and volunteers.

8am; Central Gallery, RUH; www.artatruh.org UNTIL 21 J ANUAR Y

SEURAT TO RILEY: THE ART OF PERCEPTION Seeing is no longer believing in this exhibition of some of the last two centuries’ greatest optical illusionists. £10/£9; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org UNTIL 3 F EBR UAR Y

ENGINEERED EQUANIMITY: THE MACHINES OF STEVEN PIPPIN Ambitious experiments, playful exploits and hybrid machines in this free exhibition from one of Britain’s best and most inventive artists, Steven Pippin.

His technological manipulation reveals the inter-relationship between objects, mechanisms and the universe.

Various times; The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org UNTIL 25 F EB RUARY

MICHAEL PETRY: IN THE REALM OF THE GODS Delve into the mystical undercurrents of Bath with an eerie, compelling artistic exploration of the city’s ley lines.

The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org UNTIL 1 J ANUARY 2 0 1 9

A HISTORY OF FASHION IN 100 OBJECTS Features garments and fashion accessories that created ‘the look’ in history or hit the headlines.

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

Marvellous mayhem in Hetty Feather when Jacqueline Wilson’s classic comes to Bath

Includes a late 1500s ‘blackwork’ embroidered man’s shirt, dating from the time of the Spanish Armada, and a ‘body-con’ Galaxy dress of the early 2000s, plus a jacket worn by Vivien Leigh.

Fashion Museum; www.fashionmuseum.co.uk 1 3 J ANUARY – 1 4 MA RCH

LINOCUTS Striking linocuts from Mo Lancaster who draws and observes women together, with her witty artworks taking amusement from their camaraderie and interaction.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org 1 3 J ANUARY – 1 4 MA RCH

ENTERTAINMENT IN BATH This exhibition is based on works in the gallery’s collection, as well as loans from the National Portrait Gallery and Royal Collection Trust, and depicts the creative stars of Georgian Bath and the venues where

they performed. The exhibition touches upon some of the less obvious ‘entertainments’ in the city, from gambling and prostitution to learned societies and fashionable chapels. The story is brought up-to-date with pop concerts at the Pavilion and Victoria Park, WOMAD and the Bath International Music Festival. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Plays/Shows 1 0 – 1 1 JA N UAR Y

PIANOHOOD The opening line: “I used to play this with my dad,” sets the tone for a masterful interweaving of stories and music from Will Pickvance.

8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 1 2 – 1 3 JA N UAR Y

MONSTER Masculinity is explored in this new play, weaving together voices

military intelligence – felt to be as far away as the moon.

Various times; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

– including Mike Tyson’s and Patrick Stewart’s – into this epic one-man play where heroes clash with villains and men become monsters.

8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 16 – 20 J ANUAR Y

22 J AN UARY – 2 4 J ANUARY

BLOOD BROTHERS Willy Russell’s captivating and poignant tale of twins, separated at birth, and the fateful consequences that follow when they meet in later life.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 18 – 20 J ANUAR Y

POSTING LETTERS TO THE MOON A romantic, funny and touching portrait of life in the early 40s, with readings from letters between Brief Encounters actress Celia Johnson and her explorer husband Peter Fleming who worked abroad in wartime

SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL Watch a brand new musical comedy created from scratch as each performance is created from audience suggestions, with hilarious results.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 26 – 27 J ANUARY

RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY Lift your spirit with three pieces from the acclaimed dance company. Marvel at Carnava, Chacony and Gypsy Mixture, with the latter featuring infectious Romanian and Macedeonian music. Various times; £17.50£32.50; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk w

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ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

23 – 2 4 J ANUARY

TRANSLUNAR PARADISE How do you let go when a loved one passes away? Rose returns from beyond the grave to perform one last act of love in this poignant play.

8pm; £15/£12; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 25 JANUARY

ODYSSEY One actor, one hour and an epic quest to reunite with his family and seek bloody revenge.

8pm; various prices; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 26 JANUARY

MISTRESS AND MISFIT Hear Shappi Khorsandi’s razorsharp wit and jokes – softened by some rather mischievous delivery and charm.

8pm; £15/£13; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Rock out with Bruce Springsteen soundalikes The Boss UK at Komedia 2 0 JA N UA RY

1 – 3 F E B RUARY

THE NIGHT OF THE IGUANA Tennessee Williams’ sultry tale of dying dreams, frustrated sexuality and lost souls in 1940s Mexico.

Various times; £12/£10; The Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Music 19 JANUARY

BORN TO RUN Sadly not Bruce Springsteen but perhaps the next best thing, tribute band The Boss UK bringing intensity and realism, with hits including Dancing in the Dark and Born in the U.S.A. 7pm; £14; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk 19 JANUARY

THE ROY ORBISON STORY Join Barry Steel and friends as they pay homage to the Big O, with an authentic sound and toetapping tunes.

7pm; £22; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk 20 JANUARY

KING KING Nominated for Best New Band at the Classic Rock Awards, King King bring their brand of rousing rock to Bath.

7pm; £20; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

AN EVENING WITH PHILLIP DYSON The master pianist will tickle the ivories for this evening of classics from Beethoven to Waller.

8.30pm; £15; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

flurry of colour and a twinkling of stars. But will anyone notice if one star loses its sparkle in this multi-sensory adventure? For six months to four-years-old.

Various times; £8.50/£7.50; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk UNTIL 7 J ANUAR Y

2 0 – 2 1 JA N UAR Y

BRADFORD ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL Pop, poetry, and more in this celebration of local talent, along with workshops, children’s activities, and delicious local food.

11am; £14-20; Wiltshire Music Centre; www.wiltshiremusic.org. uk

Family U N TI L 7 JA N UAR Y

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Traditional family panto with thigh-slapping fun, comedy, singing, dancing and plenty of audience participation.

Stars Bath’s Jon Monie, Harriet Thorpe from Absolutely Fabulous and Nick Wilton from EastEnders.

Various times and prices; Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk U N TI L 7 JA N UAR Y

AURORA Up in the frozen night sky something is happening, with a

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

THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHT Enjoy the magic of stories with this winter festival, back with stunning Chinese lantern scenes from 16 classic tales of old including Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Rapunzel’s lofty tower and the sensational gingerbread cottage from Hansel and Gretel.

Various times and prices; Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk

Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 20 J ANUARY

CHILDREN’S WORKSHOPS Dive into the world of illusion and introduce five- to 13-year-olds to the mind-bending art of Georges Seurat and Bridget Riley.

10.30am; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 20 J ANUARY

INSTALLATION ART WORKSHOP GCSE and A-level art students are invited to explore the museum’s dazzling and original contemporary art installations by veteran artist Lucia Harley.

10am; £30; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

UNTIL 14 J ANUAR Y

LITTLE MERMAID Venture thousands of leagues under the sea for this tale of five young mermaids. But one, Morgan, has an enquiring mind and feels she just doesn’t fit in.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk 9 – 13 J ANUAR Y

HETTY FEATHER Bath’s Jacqueline Wilson is one of the best writers for young people, with her plucky heroine brought to life as she escapes the Foundling Hospital and sets off on an adventure.

Various times and prices;

20 – 21 J ANUARY

TREASURE ISLAND Ahoy me hearties – join Jim Hawkins and friends as they set out in search of buried treasure.

But Long John Silver is in hot pursuit so expect a riot of songs and slapstick.

Various prices; 2.30pm; The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk 24 – 27 J ANUARY

PUSS IN BOOTS Traditional family pantomime with laughter and fun and games, and plenty of audience participation.

Various times; £9/£7; w

W H AT ’ S O N

PHOTO BY FREIA TURLAND

ARTS

There’s a clash of colours in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Theatre Royal Bath

St Philip & St James Church Hall, Odd Down, Bath; www.stphilipstjames.org

The Ensemble Room, The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org

24 JANUARY – 1 1 FE BRUA RY

Other

SNOW MOUSE An enchanting winter’s tale featuring a sleeping mouse and a curious child. Cue sliding, tumbling and laughter as they explore together and try and keep warm. Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

1 0 JA N UA RY

COLLECTION HIGHLIGHT TOURS Discover the stories behind the city centre gallery’s principal treasures with Dr Chris Davies.

1pm; www.victoriagal.org.uk

27 JANUARY

CREATE: ART Get creative at these fun and arty sessions for five- to 11-yearolds, pre-booking is advised and children must be accompanied by an adult.

10.30am; £5/£3; The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org

1 1 JA N UA RY

27 JANUARY

1 3 JA N UA RY

CREATE: TALES FOR TOTS Created especially for younger members of the family is this interactive morning of storytelling, music, drama and craft designed to introduce accompanied children, aged under four, to the wonders of stories. Various times; £7.50 per parent and child;

IS SEEING BELIEVING? Dr. Michael Proulx of the University of Bath invites you into the psychology and neuroscience behind art and illusion.

7pm; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org CUT, PATTERN AND MOSAIC WITH PAPER Learn about the stunning work of the Op-art movement and create your own pieces with illustrator Jessica Palmer, known for her beautiful works.

10.30am; £50; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

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17 J ANUAR Y

SARA MOORHOUSE AND CHRIS STEPHENS Moorhouse, a gifted ceramicist, joins the museum’s director to discuss the inspirations and principles behind her art.

7pm; £10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org 17 J ANUAR Y

ART STORE TOURS Booking is essential for this tour when you join a curator and explore the permanent collection housed in the art stores. 12pm; www.victoriagal.org.uk 17 AND 20 J ANUAR Y

COFFEE MORNING No.1 Royal Crescent, the Museum of Bath Architecture and the Herschel Museum are holding coffee mornings for prospective volunteers, meet existing volunteers and learn about the roles available.

11am-2pm; www.bpttrust.org.uk 18 J ANUAR Y

AN EVENING WITH TOM KERRIDGE A little of what you fancy does you good and the Michelinstarred chef explains how you

can eat well and still lose weight – something he has done himself. 8pm; £8-22; Topping; www.toppingbooks.co.uk 20 J ANUARY

SINGING DAY WITH JOHN RUTTER A rare opportunity to take part in a vocal workshop day led by one of the greatest British composers and conductors, John Rutter. The music for the day will be a mixture of choral music, church and secular, old and new, with some of John’s recent compositions and personal favourites added.

All ages and abilities are welcome. 10am; £20/£11; Bath Abbey; www.bathabbey.org 26 J ANUARY

HATS AND HEADDRESSES WORKSHOP If you want to get ahead then make your very own hat, with Annabel Lewis helping you to design your own glamorous headwear or enhance an existing one.

2pm; £85; V V Rouleaux; www.vvrouleaux.com

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BOOKS

ARTS

SHE’S A SUPERHERO WHO WILL FIGHT FOR HER OWN RIGHTS AS MUCH AS SHE’LL FIGHT FOR YOURS

POWER OF GOOD NIC BOTTOMLEY’S never covered the genre of novels reimagining comic-book superheroes before, so now’s the time…

I

need a fresh idea for my book review column for Bath Life – something I’ve never written about before, to suit a brand new year,” I said to my American bookselling intern, Liz, “Do you have anything?”. “How about superhero fiction?” she replied.

My memory isn’t always the best, but I feel pretty robust in saying that I’ve never covered the genre of novels reimagining comic-book superheroes before now. My confidence is mostly derived from never having been aware that this was even a thing, until that very revealing conversation with Liz. It turns out, though, that converting and refreshing all those DC and Marvel legends into a narrative fiction form is a burgeoning art with an eager audience.

I probably needn’t add – and yet I must – that the following navigation through some great starting points in this arena is a collaborative effort involving Liz’s knowledge and insight and my… well… my typing, essentially.

Here at Mr B’s we regularly sell the works of fantasy novelist Leigh Bardugo, particularly her Six of Crows series. Liz, though, stands by Wonder Woman: Warbringer

(Penguin, £7.99) as Bardugo’s finest work.

It’s a novel that swaps out the origin story of Diana breaking Amazon law by saving Steve Trevor and then leaving Themyscira for him, for a version that sees her save a young girl, Alia Keralis, and then grapple with the fact that this act may have inadvertently doomed the earth.

The novel ditches the crutch of giving Wonder Woman a romance, and instead focuses on the characters – the relationships that Diana builds and fumbles while simultaneously learning to fight a foreign evil in a brand new world. There’s a new and very current vulnerability in this incarnation of Wonder Woman, a superhero who will fight for her own rights as much as she’ll fight for yours.

Spider-Man: Forever Young (Marvel, £20) by master world-builder Stefan Petrucha is a novel based on the Stone Tablet Saga. It’s very much based a return to the original tone of the comic books, set in the present day, and with twists for new readers. The setting is college, where Peter Parker and his penniless friends come up with a plan to stage some Spider-Man photos as an earner.

Somehow, that relatively innocent scheme leads Parker into the heart of a war between

Kingpin and the crime syndicate Maggia.

Everyone’s favourite web-wielding superhero appears again in Miles Morales: Spider-Man by Jason Reynolds (Marvel, £13.99), an author whose work has twice been shortlisted for the prestigious National Book Award – though the committee somehow overlooked his Marvel reworking.

For the uninitiated, Miles Morales is a character first introduced in 2011 as the person to take up the strain after SpiderMan’s death and, critically, he’s black and from a very different background to Peter Parker. In fact, the most thought-provoking angle of the novel is Reynolds’ exploration of the differences between a black and a white superhero.

As for the plot itself, Miles Morales is having some trouble at school – his spidey-senses keep tingling, telling him there’s danger where he knows there isn’t, and when an altercation leads to a suspension, Miles wonders if he’s meant to be Spider-Man after all. He wonders if, having been brought up around a criminal father and uncle, he is perhaps doomed to become a criminal rather than stop them.

Add into this self-doubt mixer a dollop of insomnia and history lessons that keep teaching the positive benefits of slavery and the modern prison system, and Miles has a whole lot of confusion and misinformation to unscramble.

So, thanks to Liz’s voracious hero-fic reading, we have our starter-guide to superpowered novels. And if penning this piece has taught me anything, it’s that these three are but a drop in an ocean of a wonderfully high-octane genre.

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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R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Nourish

The plant-based menu at new vegan restaurant Nourish, on London Road, is ambitious, confident and vivacious. LISA EVANS went to try it out for Veganuary…

Photo g raphy by PE T E H E L M E

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THE

hen it comes to making vegetarian dishes at home, I’m lazy, unimaginative and I stick to what I know – which mainly involves dishes with cheese or eggs. If I wasn’t to include any animal-derived ingredients, though, what would I be left with? Mozzarella-less pizza and no-egg omelettes, that’s what. So it was with a mix of apprehension and curiosity that I made my way to new 100 per cent vegan restaurant Nourish on London Road.

Formerly known as The Beaufort, the newly revamped eatery has a fully plant-based menu – there’s even oat milk in the lattes and hemp in the mayo – and there’s a massive focus on health, sustainability and fresh, local produce. I’m excited to see what the night brings, and how inventive recipes made only with veg can really be.

It’s safe to say the owner, Robbie Tack, who was also at the helm of The Beaufort, doesn’t shy away from a culinary challenge. As well as being vegan, every dish can be made entirely gluten-free, and chef Rebecca Greaves seems to be able to turn the simplest ingredient into something sparky and vivacious.

The starter options – which range from garlic and truffle mushrooms on toasted artisan bread, to onion pakoras with tamarind sauce – are all so tempting that it takes an uncomfortable while for me and my dining partner to come to a decision. The easiest thing to do, then, is order five. First, we go for an appetiser – flatbreads with chubby olives, strong pesto and tasty hummus – then it’s onto golden Chinese spring rolls stuffed with enoki mushrooms, tofu, ginger and pea shoots, which come with a trio of sweet, hot, fruity dipping sauces. We expect the rolls to be hard and crunchy on the outside, but they have both pleasing crispness and chew (the texture reminds me of baklava) and there are frizzled and frayed amber bits on the ends.

We argue over the falafel croquettes served with smoked aubergine purée, pickled red cabbage and turmeric and tahini sauce – which looks incredibly artistic on the plate, and tastes as good as it looks. And Robbie’s recommendation is the soft tortilla taco; there are two choices of filling, so we greedily order both. The first is barbeque jackfruit – the plant equivalent of pulled pork – with pico de gallo, guacamole, coconut yoghurt, coriander and jalapeños

FLAVOURS HAVE AS MUCH COLOUR AND PIZZAZZ AS THE INTERIOR OF

THE RESTAURANT

(careful, this one has some serious heat); and the milder one is crammed with coconut-crumb tofu, pineapple and mango salsa, avocado and pickled onion. We’re already achingly full, but we have no regrets.

That was until we realised what goliath portions we’d be served for mains. Although momentarily enticed by the roast pumpkin curry served with creamy dhal, basmati rice, poppadoms and mixed pickle, I opt for the saucy red pepper and walnut and lasagne. It’s wide, it’s fat, it’s lofty, and it’s a cheesy, creamy dream. There’s melted mozzarella on top, and, under that, there is a layer of soft blue cheese.

Only they’re not cheeses, of course, they are vegan, artisan versions made with herbs and cashews. Yet more ‘cheese’, hinged between warm nuttiness and earthiness from the depths of the field, is slathered with a punchy tomato sauce which contains walnuts that are chopped finely enough so that they almost have the consistency of beef mince. It’s served with moreish garlic bread and dressed mixed leaves.

Winter comfort food at its best.

My comrade goes for a cremini mushroom and ale pie; he cuts into the puff pastry, and what looks like velvety red wine sauce oozes out, but it’s actually made with the reduced juice of purple carrots. It comes with rustic, mustardy mash and the most refreshing delicately minted smashed peas. We order sides of spicy sweet potato fries and house slaw too, because, let’s face it, the diet’s doomed by this point.

A lovely touch is the fact that there’s a dedicated children’s menu – featuring dishes such as pesto pasta, and cauliflower and baby pepper sausage rolls. So the family aspect is taken care of – and there are a lot of little ones here tonight, happily tucking in.

The pumpkin pie, with the very lightest coconut brandy Chantilly cream and crunchy maple-glazed pecans, makes for a mouth-watering pudding, and the raw salted caramel cheesecake is a triumph of creaminess.

The flavours this evening have as much colour and pizzazz as the interior of the restaurant, which has fluffy clouds hanging from the ceilings and is filled with knockout, contemporary paintings (one of which you may have already spotted on our cover) by local artist Rebecca Collett, whose whole family happens to follow a plant-based diet.

It’s a daring act to take a much-loved gastropub and reinvent it completely, but, with vegan options often underrepresented in restaurants, Robbie feels the niche will pay off, and with meat production systems “affecting him profoundly”, it feels like a natural move. So, if you’re ready for bold, inventive dishes with attitude – which really ought to be prescribed on the NHS as pick-me-ups – head down to Nourish, stat.

DINING DETAILS 1 Beaufort West, London Road, Bath, BA1 6QB; 01225 422033; www.nourishbath.co.uk Prices Starters £4.95 – £7.95; mains £12 – £13.50; desserts £6.50 – £8.50; Drinks The varied and extensive wine and beer varieties are all vegan, of course Service/ atmosphere Unbelievably friendly and helpful, with an inclusive vibe

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63

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” CLIFTON SAUSAGE 5 Bladud Buildings, Bath; 01225 433633; www.cliftonsausage.co.uk Upmarket sausage and mash restaurant and bar newly opened in Bath 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 HENRY'S 4 Saville Row, Bath; 01225 780055; www.henrysrestaurantbath.com Imaginative modern dining offering a classic menu and also full vegetarian and vegan menus DAN MOON AT THE GAINSBOROUGH RESTAURANT Beau St, Bath; 01225 358888; www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Creativity meets delicious food with this talented chef MENU GORDON JONES 2 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 480871; www.menugordonjones.co.uk Multi award-winning fine dining with constantly changing surprise tasting menu 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 64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

WOODS 9-13 Alfred St, Bath; 01225 314812 www.woodsrestaurant.com legendary Bath dining institution serving French influenced British cuisine

THE GARRICKS HEAD 7-8 St John's Rd, Bath; 01225 318368; www.garricksheadpub.com City centre pub and dining room next to Theatre Royal

CAFÉS & COFFEE SHOPS

THE HARE AND HOUNDS Lansdown Road, Avon, Bath; 01225 482682; www.hareandhoundsbath.com Airy, relaxed spot with modern British gastropub menu, extensive wine list and scenic outdoor area

CAFÉ LUCCA 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 335394; 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 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 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 THE MARLBOROUGH TAVERN 35 Marlborough Buildings; 01225 423731; www.marlborough-tavern.com Award winning gastropub using seasonal local produce THE NEW INN 24 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 442944; www.newinnbath.co.uk Burgers and bar snacks with cask and craft ale and beers

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

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

GASTROPUBS

INDIAN

GPT SMOKEHOUSE 44-45 Lower Bristol Rd, Bath; 01225 429509; www.gptbath.com 'Dude Food' menu cooked with an 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

KING WILLIAM 36 Thomas St, Bath; 01225 428096; www.kingwilliampub.com Pub with an upstairs dining room serving a modern British menu based on west country produce

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

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

MARTINI RESTAURANT 8-9 George St, Bath; 01225 460818; www.martinirestaurant.co.uk Traditional Italian food served in a cosy atmosphere

ITALIAN

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

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

STEAKHOUSES

OLÉ TAPAS 1 John Street, Bath 01225 466440; www.oletapas.co.uk Charming, authentic Spanish tapas – one of Bath’s best kept secrets

PIZZA

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

THE OVEN 21 Westgate St, Bath 01225 311181; www.theovenpizzeria.co.uk Neapolitan artisan pizza using local and Italian imported produce

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

KOH THAI TAPAS 36 Broad St, Bath 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk Award winning small Thai tapas plates and cocktails

REAL ITALIAN PIZZA CO 16 York St, Bath 01225 330121; www.realitalianpizza.co.uk Family owned pizzeria. Wood fired pizza with fresh authentic ingredients

TAPAS

THAI BY THE WEIR 16 Argyle St, Bath 01225 444834; www.thaibytheweir.co.uk Restaurant overlooking the weir, serving a classic Thai menu

TAPAS REVOLUTION 20A St Lawrence St, Bath; 01225 312917 www.tapasrevolution.com/bath Newly opened authentic Spanish Tapas

THAI

OUTSIDE of BATH BRITISH THE GREENHOUSE RESTAURANT The Pavilion, Wadswick Green, Corsham SN13 9RD; 01225 585880; www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Smart, stylish and relaxed new dining destination THE GARDEN 15-17 The Bridge, Chippenham, SN15 1HA 01249 465672; www.thegardenuk.co.uk Relaxed dining using British produce

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

Award winning modern British food and cask ales in country inn

GASTROPUBS

THE PEAR TREE INN Top Lane, Whitely, Wilts, SN12 8QX; 01225 704966; www.peartreewhitley.co.uk An elegant revamped country inn with an acclaimed restaurant and contemporary rustic-chic bedrooms

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 GEORGE AT WOOLLEY 67 Woolley St, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1AQ; 01225 865650; www.thegeorgebradfordonavon.co.uk Recently refurbished gastropub from award winning team HOMEWOOD PARK Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath BA2 7TB 01225 723731; www.homewoodpark.co.uk Luxury hotel with two rosette restaurant and spa THE LONGS ARMS Upper South Wraxall, Wilts, BA15 2SB; 01225 864450; www.thelongsarms.com

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 ALLINGTON FARM SHOP Allington Bar Farm, Allington, Chippenham SN14 6LJ; 01249 658112; www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Shop and Café selling local produce

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65

FOOD

RECIPE

Turmeric cauliflower steaks with coconut curry sauce

(Serves 2)

Looking for a healthy recipe after your Christmas binge? Food box delivery scheme Farmdrop – which supplies to customers in Bath, Bristol and London – has you covered. Try these South Indian-inspired caramelised cauli steaks, which will become a favourite way beyond Veganuary

F

armdrop is a local, ethical grocery service that wants to change the way you shop. Ben Pugh started the business because he was frustrated about the lack of affordable and convenient access to high-quality food from local producers. “Digging a little deeper, I realised that the problem was perpetuated by the major supermarkets who source from great distances, waste unsold food, and give an unfairly low cut of sales back to the farmers,” he says. “This is the broken food chain that Farmdrop is trying to fix, and we are doing it by sourcing food from local producers, only harvesting what has already been purchased by customers, and giving the farmers an unprecedented share of the retail price.” Here, Ben shares one of his favourite recipes…

Ingredients • 1 cauliflower • A handful of fresh coriander, chopped • 1/2 red chilli, chopped Cauliflower marinade • 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric, grated (or 1/2 tsp dried) • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 1 tbsp plain oil • 1/2 tsp sea salt Coconut sauce • 1 tbsp plain oil • 1/2 red chilli • 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 1 shallot or small onion, finely chopped • 4 cardamom pods • 1 cinnamon stalk • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds • 1/2 tsp red chilli powder • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper • 1 tsp garam masala • 1/2 tin coconut milk (or small tin) Method • Preheat oven to 200°C. Keeping the leaves on, cut the cauliflower in half through the stalk. Cut a 4cm-thick steak out of the centre of each cauliflower half.

• Place the steaks on a baking tray. Chop the leftover bits of cauliflower into chunks.

• Mix the marinade ingredients together then brush over the cauliflower steaks on both sides. Leave to marinade for at least five minutes.

• Pop the steaks in the oven for around 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until crisp and golden on the edges and tender 66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

in the middle.

• For the sauce, heat the oil in a saucepan.

When shimmering, add the cardamom, cinnamon and cumin seeds and leave to crackle for around 15 – 20 seconds until fragrant.

• Next add the shallot, red chilli, garlic and ginger. Cook on a medium heat for about five minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste has thickened and become golden.

• Pour in the coconut milk and the leftover cauliflower chunks and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cover.

Cook until the cauliflower is soft.

• Pull the cinnamon and cardamom pods out of the curry sauce (they’ve done their job) and discard. Blitz the sauce with a hand blender (or in a food processor) until thick and smooth.

• Serve the steaks on a layer of the sauce and sprinkled with the fresh red chilli and coriander.

www.farmdrop.com

One of the most welcoming and attentive stays in Bath Located just a 10 minute walk from the heart of the historic city of Bath and nestled in seven acres of landscaped gardens is the 18th Century Georgian building of the �ive-star luxury hotel, The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel.

Our food is quite simply outstanding, awarded with two AA rosettes for excellent quality and Service in The Vellore Restaurant. From our award winning breakfast to delicious evening service, it’s an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

Indulge yourself on a retreat from the stresses and strains of everyday life and sample one of the most sensuous and healing spas in Bath. We have a hidden haven of refreshing spa treatments, ready to wash away your tension in our state of the art spa.

For details on Packages available please contact us on 01225 476828 or email sales.bathspa@macdonald-hotels.co.uk

M A C D O N A L D B AT H S PA H O T E L

Sydney Road, Bath BA2 6JF 01225 444 424 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

CAFE KITCHEN Providing young people with special needs training and experience in an award-winning cafe.

Open 8am–4pm Monday to Friday and 9am–12pm Saturday, serving delicious home made cakes, breakfasts, lunch and hot & cold drinks.

We are available for private hire and bookings are available for the meeting room.

Please call Amelia on 01225 838070 Based next to Three Ways Special School, 180 Frome Road, Bath, BA2 5RF

WINE

DRINK EXPERT

PARTY ON Loathe to let the celebratory atmosphere subside and the January blues kick in, ANGELA MOUNT discusses her favourite special-occasion wines that you can continue to enjoy throughout the new year

W

e may have toasted the New Year on the 1st, but who says the parties can’t continue?

Celebrations started on Christmas Eve – when the drinks are the support act, not the main event. And we saved the champagne and sparkly drinks for Christmas Day – Ruggeri Argeo Prosecco NV (£12.50) was just the ticket; it’s a prosecco way above most proseccos. Creamy, yet vibrant, with a lively citrus edge, it’s refreshing and bright, and only 11 per cent alcohol, so great for parties of any kind – definitely one to bear in mind for any special occasion on the horizon. So if, like me, you’re not ready for party season to end, or you have a number of exciting dates in the diary, or even if you’re just looking to try something different, read on…

For white wines, it’s easy to go straight to the nation’s favourite, Sauvignon blanc, but if you happen to be serving salmon, or fancy a different take on a smooth, yet crisp white for a big occasion, why not give Ascheri Gavi di Gavi 2016 (£14.95) a try – it’s creamy and smooth, with peach and lemon balm edges, and beautiful finesse from one of Piemonte’s top producers. It’s easy to move to the New World for a red, but, just for a change, I’m sticking to Europe, with one of the best value Bordeaux wines around. Chateau Sainte Marie Bordeaux Supérieur 2015 (£10.95), is an unbelievable buy, and definitely one to snap up in copious amounts.

Smooth and elegant with a delicious blackberry softness, it’s meltingly tender in style, and very versatile.

Another tipple that I highly

recommend (for any occasion you can justify it for) is the irresistible Gobillard Brut Reserve Premier Cru NV (£29.50), a small-grower champagne, made with love and care which has to be one of the best fizz offers around, and is more than a match for some of the big-known brands out there, with its delicious brioche and buttered hazelnut ripeness and depth.

If your aim is to impress, bring out the Chablis Premier Cru Louis Michel, Montee de Tonnerre 2014 (£30), a sensational classic, and an award-winner, with baked apple, delicate spice, and searingly fresh lemon and lime citrus edge, with a chalky note and an unbelievable intensity of character, worthy of a grand cru. It will work with prawns and smoked salmon, but its depth and complexity will allow it to cope equally well with a special Sunday roast with all the trimmings.

For reds, I’m a big fan of soft velvetiness, nothing too tannic or harsh. My vote goes to Kooyong Masale Pinot Noir 2015 (£39.50), an outstanding, seductive, and smoothly

FOOD & DRINK

JUST BECAUSE THE FESTIVITIES ARE OVER DOESN’T MEAN YOU CAN’T STILL ENJOY YOURSELF polished red, which sashays across the tongue, alluring with its rich, dark cherry, raspberry and sweet clove richness, yet deceptively soft on the finish. It’s smooth, it’s silky, it’s plush, and you have to try it.

When it comes to wines to pair with desserts, many people will profess they don’t like sweet wine, but when they taste them with intensely saccharine puds, suddenly the blindfolds are off and they realise that sweet wine can be delicious. My suggestions for you here are twofold. On a budget? Get hold of The Noble Wrinkled Riesling 2016 (£11.50), a mellifluous triumph, packed with the glorious richness of caramel, orange zest and honey, which trip across the tongue. Or splash out on the intense and heady delights of Peller Icewine Vidal 2015 (£29.50), an intensely sweet, yet surprisingly refreshing dessert wine made from naturally frozen grapes, picked at -10 degrees in Niagara, Canada. An absolute beauty and super stylish, it’s a mix of honey, caramel, candied lemon and angelica, with an unexpected mouth-watering edge.

Just because the festivities are over doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy yourself by exploring new and delicious drink options. Long may your wine-tasting continue.

All drinks featured are available at Great Western Wine, Wells Road, Bath. Angela Mount is a Bath-based wine writer, presenter and international judge who had her taste buds insured for £10million during her tenure as one of the country’s leading supermarket wine buyers.

She works with wine producers, chefs and distributors.

For more, visit www.greatwesternwine.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 69

Quality ooring and carpets at competitive prices

Showroom in Chelsea Road, Bath info@interiorharmony.co.uk | 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months.

If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

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

Careful consideration from competitive chefs

THE HEAT IS ON

The redesign and rebrand was carried out by local agency Ready, and promises a: “360 degree dining experience to customers”.

Customers can enjoy 10 per cent off bills, if reserving online or by phone, when they quote BathLife10 in January.

Chefs in Bath can test their culinary skills in the Professional Chef v Chef 2018 competition.

The annual event will see competitors creating a three-course signature menu from seasonal produce.

And, to make it even more of a challenge, the starters will be created from a box of mystery ingredients provided on the day – with chefs given just 30 minutes to plan their dishes.

The competition is open to chefs working in the industry within a 50-mile radius of Bath, and there is no age restriction. It is a joint venture with Bath College, Catering Services International and The Initiative.

“The aim of the competition is to afford local chefs the opportunity to showcase their skills while championing the area’s culinary prowess,” says Andrew Berman, managing director of Catering Services International.

“Competitions of this nature are key to bridging the well-publicised staffing shortages within the industry.

“Chef v Chef is now in its 13th year and is a leading prestigious tournament, providing an excellent opportunity to promote your kitchen while simultaneously enhancing your resume.

“An added bonus is the invaluable feedback gained from the celebrity judges on the day.”

The closing date for entries in 26 January, with the competition taking place at Bath College’s Shrubbery Restaurant, on 8 February.

For more: www.ruirestaurant.com

For more: www.cateringinternational.co.uk

Tao Han in Bathwick’s Rui restaurant

TASTE OF CHINA Authentic Chinese food is on the menu at the refurbished Rui restaurant at Bathwick Street, Bath.

The restaurant is in the former Crown pub, with the Han family taking over the lease of the popular eatery in 2014.

Its name means beauty or luck, and is pronounced ‘rey’.

“Our customers can expect to enjoy the most authentic mainland Chinese cuisine, cooked by highly trained professional chefs from China,” says co-owner Tao Han. “We use locally sourced and the freshest ingredients, all served in a tranquil, beautiful, and relaxed environment that is sure to deliver a fantastic dining experience.”

The restaurant also has four private karaoke rooms, with staff happy to serve drinks and snacks to singers.

Antiques + Interiors Emporium + Workshops

NEW YEAR, TIME FOR A NEW LOOK

Fashion/gifts/stores/more

FORM AND SUBSTANCE Bath-based artist Peter Hayes has always been interested in the history of ceramics.

This interest was extended after he spent several years travelling through Africa working with various tribes and village potters and being intrigued how, with limited technology and basic tools, they were able to get such exquisite, beautiful surfaces.

“I found the same inherent skills in India, Nepal, Japan and New Mexico,” says Peter, whose studio is on Cleveland Bridge,

Bath. “I tried to adopt the ideas picked up from my travels in my own work. By building up layers of textured clay, combined with burnishing and polishing of surfaces, I try to achieve opposites of rough and smooth.

“I have discovered Udaipur in Rajasthan where I go for inspiration when my studio in Bath gets cold in the winter months.

This has introduced me to other artists and craftsmen enabling me to work with a range of different materials, such as glass,

marble, stone and Damascus steel. Each has its own character, its own limits, its own tolerance – some materials fight back, some play the game. It is my job to push it to its limits and somehow an equilibrium is made between maker and material. “ The Discs, £350, from Peter Hayes Sculpture and Ceramics, 2 Cleveland Bridge; 01225 466215; www.peterhayes-ceramics.uk.com

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E D U C AT I O N

A NEW YEAR OF LEARNING Yoga, superheroes, challenging thinking and mindfulness – just four ways schools and colleges in and around Bath are helping children and young people to learn

W

By SA M A N T H A WA L K E R

hat are the best ways to help children learn? That’s the question today’s educators constantly challenge themselves to answer, with the development of their young charges forefront in their minds.

And, as it’s a fresh new year, it’s also the perfect opportunity for a fresh new start – although our clever teachers show children how to move on from their mistakes quickly, so they don’t get bogged down and wrongly perceive themselves as failures.

“Every day is a new start, but the new year, for many, signifies a fresh start and a time of excitement for the future,” says Nicky Botterill, headmistress at Bruton School for Girls. “We talk a lot with our girls about having a ‘Growth Mindset’ and seeing ‘failures’ as ‘not yet’ – it is important for us to remember this ourselves.”

With children having access to all manner of new technology – think interactive whiteboards, tablets and laptops – it could be easy to forget the basics, something our experts would never do.

Perhaps top of the agenda is helping children find their inner happy, because contended children, and adults come to that, learn so much better.

“We must never forget that every child also needs the opportunity and space for downtime – to relax, to be a child, to play, to be bored, because without this they become a tightly sprung coil; find the balance and the result will be magical,” says Karen Cordon, headmistress at St Margaret’s Preparatory School in Calne, Wiltshire.

Yoga is one of the Paragon’s not-so secret weapons in helping pupils find their from-here-to-serenity moment.

It’s combined with mindfulness – the technique of understanding feelings – even stressful ones, and learning how to process them and

move forward. “We are lucky to have two qualified yoga teachers at The Paragon and there are a number of staff members who have completed mindfulness courses, says headmaster Andrew Harvey.

“As a school, we care about the wellbeing of our children, and mindfulness is one of the ways that we support this.

“Teachers are using it as a tool to relax, calm and focus their pupils during some of their lessons, especially after break times.

“There is an emerging body of research that indicates mindfulness can help children improve their abilities to pay attention, to calm down when they are upset, and to make better decisions.”

Emotional and physical wellbeing is high on the agenda at The Royal High School in Bath too.

“We are very aware as a school about the role of wellbeing, and staff will have the chance to take part in a research project to see if exercise and mindfulness can work together to improve wellbeing,” says Heidi Hunt, head at the Royal High’s junior school.

And fittingly for a new year following some festive excess, staff, pupils and parents – yes that’s parents too – will look at diet.

“We are introducing a 10-week Sugar Smart project which will see staff, pupils and parents working together to investigate the benefits of reducing sugar in our diet – call it our combined New Year’s resolution,” adds Heidi, with parents’ input invaluable.

Educators draw on a vast body of research that shows the importance of parent-power.

It says when parents are engaged in their children’s lives they achieve so much more.

Parental involvement is key at The Paragon too, and there are even hockey and football teams for parents.

Being mentally stretched is important of course, with today’s children and young people shown how to analyse their learning and so find ways to improve.

At The Royal High School, Bath, pupils at the girls-only school were challenged to answer some of life’s bigger questions as part of its Cranwell Curriculum, named after the Georgian building that houses the school.

For year six this was ‘Trenches, tears and triumphs’ in relation to both world wars, and in 2018 it will be investigating ‘Dinosaurs, w

IT ISN’T NECESSARY TO MAKE FAIRY TALES GENDERNEUTRAL BUT IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENCOURAGE GIRLS TO QUESTION THE

CHARACTERS

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

E D U C AT I O N

When children at Bruton School for Girls are happy, they learn well

Clever number-crunching at St Margaret’s

Happy learning at Prior Park

A-level success at Prior Park

We’d love to know what new fact this young pupil has learned at St Margaret’s

Support and excellent education at Bath College

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

E D U C AT I O N

Darwin to DNA’. And, across the board, schools and colleges are keen to challenge stereotypes.

“I believe fairy and traditional tales are an important part of our history,” says Royal High Junior School head Heidi Hunt.

“I don’t believe it would work or it would be necessary to make them gender-neutral. What is more important is encouraging girls to question the characters.

“Good teachers do this in all books they read.”

Acts of kindness also help underpin learning – after all, we all feel so much happier when people are nice to us and, naturally, this extends to children too.

“Certainly things as small as smiling at each other helps make people feel good,” says Nicky Botterill, headmistress at Bruton.

“Working with young people is a positive activity in itself and so I believe schools are usually therefore really optimistic and affirmative places to work – seeing young people make progress is energising.

“Kindness is not an option here, it underpins all we do.”

Bruton takes both boys and girls in its pre-prep, and girls up to the age of 18.

Last year, pupils and staff at Kingswood donated more than 500kg of food to Bath Foodbank, a charity that provides short-term help, in the form of food parcels, to those in need.

Kingswood’s art department also donated packets of pencils for the children of people using the foodbank.

“We have a ‘culture of kindness’ here at Prior Park,” says headmaster James Murphy O’Connor. “Our students are encouraged to make small gestures of kindness as it is these that often make the biggest difference. Examples range from an older student helping a younger student with their prep or it could be as simple as a pupil saying a welcoming ‘hello’ to a new pupil on their first day. ”

A superhero created by children at The Paragon

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

Bruton’s perfect setting for learning

Individual attention also helps with learning and, at Bath Academy, this really helps students achieve their full potential.

“Every week, each student meets with their personal tutor to discuss their progress,” explains personal tutor Christina Campbell.

“These meetings are an opportunity to affirm their individual strengths, and work with them to remove any obstacle to achieving their best. These hurdles may concern their wellbeing, both physical and emotional, learning skills and disabilities, or simply the steps encountered to being an independent university student.”

Thinking about others also helps students and pupils alike help make a difference. Last year, pupils in year two at The Paragon took part in a workshop and learned about the harm of bullying.

“The workshop aimed to spread kindness and empower our children by demonstrating in a very practical way how one small person can make a big difference to someone’s life,” says headmaster Andrew Harvey. “The children wrote kind messages and sent cards and a video to Toby, a boy at another school who was very unhappy and being bullied. The workshop made the children think about how kindness can be catching. We also worked together to make kind superheroes and created a Kindness Garden, filled with lovely messages written on colourful flowers.”

Kindness, fun and positivity is contagious at Bath Academy, with teachers practising what they preach.

This included an auction for Children in Need where the teachers modelled clothes and students placed their bids.

“We aim to counter the impersonal and isolating effects of contemporary culture by engaging directly with each student,” says Bath Academy principal Tim Naylor. “This personal approach is a powerful and surprisingly simple educational force. Students meet caring adults who increase their incentive to engage in serious learning, help channel their creative curiosity, and make education more responsive to the realities of their individual differences.”

e d u c at i o n a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

top of the class St Margaret’s Preparatory School, Calne is Excellent across the board!

S

t Margaret’s is a thriving independent day school for boys and girls aged three-11 and recently The Independent Schools Inspectorate, the Ofsted equivalent for independent schools, graded us excellent for the quality of both the children’s academic and other achievements, as well as the quality of their personal development.

We are absolutely thrilled with the outcome and could not be more pleased with the way the inspection team captured the ethos of the school, and in particular the essence and the spirit of the children.

The children excelled during the inspection visit and the relationships that they enjoy with each other and with the staff, coupled with their

“…children made excellent progress”

enthusiasm for learning, is evident throughout the report. We are extremely proud of them and thank them for participating with such passion.

The inspectors were particularly full of praise for the way in which the children evaluated their own learning and said: ‘Pupils of all ages display very high levels of self-knowledge, self-esteem, self-confidence and resilience. Their outstanding personal development is underpinned by excellent pastoral care and a high level of commitment by all staff to support the individual needs of every pupil. All pupils understand how to improve their own learning through regular opportunities provided for reflection on their own performance, as part of the whole-school effective learning skills programme.’

The report also said that children made excellent progress throughout the school and that they were highly successful in gaining their first choice places at senior schools, often with scholarships and awards.

A second part of the inspection focused on

regulatory compliance and St Margaret’s passed all aspects, including safeguarding, recruitment and health and safety.

Since 2009, St Margaret’s has run an academic bursary assessment day each year for local children who are interested in obtaining a place in years 3-6. The intention is to extend the education opportunities to the wider community and to those children who show academic promise, but whose families have limited financial means. We welcome visits from prospective parents all year round.

St Margaret’s Preparatory School Curzon Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0DF; 01249 857220 office@stmargaretsprep.org.uk www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk

2018 GCSE & A-Level Revision Courses: 12th – 16th February 26th March – 13th April 28th May –1st June

“Amazing success” in returning pupils to mainstream education (Good Schools Guide) • Co-educational day school for pupils aged 6-13 with dyslexia and other specific learning/language difficulties.

• Located in Wiltshire between Bath and Chippenham.

CReSTeD approved.

• Fully qualified specialist teachers with maximum class size of eight - reducing to one-to-one as required.

“Staff have extensive subject knowledge and actively engage the students in learning” OFSTED

For more information please contact Henry Pike on: 01225 334577 | revision@bathacademy.co.uk www.bathacademy.co.uk 27 Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2HX @BathAcademy

facebook.com/Bath.Academy

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students.

We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation.

For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, KIE Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

Shake-ups/launches/intel/promotions

B AT H G E T S S ER I O US SPONSORED BY:

“Does my bottom look big in this?”

SCIENCE

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

DOGGED DETERMINATION

“I CAN HERD SHEEP ACROSS LONDON BRIDGES”

The games and film industry will have more realistic animal animation thanks to state-of-the-art research from the University of Bath Computer scientists from the university’s Centre for Analysis of Motion, Entertainment Research & Applications (CAMERA) are creating a library of movement data from different dog breeds, with pooches from the nearby Bath Cats and Dogs Home happy to help.

The new technique will mean the movements of a two-legged human actor replicate those of a four-legged animal character, and in a more realistic way too.

Head of studio at CAMERA, Martin Parsons, says: “At the moment, actors have to walk around on all fours, and the computer software changes them into an animal.

“What we want to do is to look at the movements of the human actor and then use a kind of translator to look at a library of real animal data to make the character on the screen move in a realistic way.

“It works a bit like a puppeteer, with the actor using their whole body to drive the animal avatar.”

Planet of the Apes used motion capture techniques extensively to transform human actors into apes, however this process doesn’t work well for four-legged animals, hence the research.

To capture the footage, dogs sported coats with

reflective markers fixed on them, and were encouraged to play on an agility course set up in the studio. Infrared light hitting reflective markers was sensed by special cameras placed around the edge of the studio, which then recorded its 3D position.

Researchers are using lots of different breeds to study the different canine gaits, and hope to expand the project to include cats next year.

CAMERA is a £5m research centre funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) at the University of Bath. As well as motion tracking technologies for use in the entertainment industry, it will enhance training and athletes’ performance, and help develop assistive technologies.

For more: www.camera.ac.uk

Tina Engell explains what it means to have the Freedom of the City of London For more: page 80

£5m THE BIG NUMBER

A state-of-the-art research centre at the University of Bath For more: see opposite

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

PHOTO BY CAL SMITH

TINA ENGELL The goldsmith found London life tricky with a toddler in tow so, when a visit to the West Country brought her to Bath, Tina and her husband headed straight for the nearest estate agent How did your business come about and where did you train?

I became a fully trained goldsmith after four years of apprenticeship, working at the bench in the workshop at goldsmith Ole Lynggard in Copenhagen, Denmark. Years later, I enjoyed a two-year MA jewellery design course at the Royal College of Art (RCA), in London.

I set up my business in London immediately after having graduated with an order from Harvey Nichols. I had planned to return to Copenhagen, but it was an exciting opportunity, and I decided to stay for a little longer.

We’re obsessed with all things Scandi – does this trend surprise you?

I am proud and glad that you appreciate ‘all things Scandi’ – it is a great style, but the hype about it is an overreaction. It feels like the UK has just woken up and discovered a new country. The best designs and styles were established in early 60s, so perhaps it is a little overdue...

We love your pieces – they have perfectly clean lines and really showcase the stones…

The key is simplicity. I buy the stones that ‘speak’ to me. I know what I like and buy from the dealers accordingly, and work the designs around it.

Jewellery has a function, it most be worn, it must feel comfortable, suit every situation, and have a solid feel to it – I think.

What is your favourite material to work with?

It has to be gold; it is malleable, forgiving and you can work it well – and the rich gold colour is a pure pleasure.

My commissions start from £100.

If you were asked to design wedding rings for Price Harry and Meghan Markle what would they look like?

I would cast a fat, heavy ring in cuttlefish in 24ct yellow gold. It is the oldest technique of casting, it is rough and honest. The ring is cast as a complete ring, with no joins, and leaves the indentation from the cuttlefish bone on the surface of the ring.

What did you want to be when you were little?

I wanted to be an ‘unknown singer’ – clearly something that I have achieved very well.

This statement was found written in an old notebook, but I also remember wanting to work in the post office, as I loved the order and old clunky stamps.

What was your first job?

I worked in restaurants and bars, the pay was poor but tips great, and I had a lot of fun.

My hourly pay during my first year as an apprentice in 1984 was £2.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

The fact that I am completely in charge of my business and work.

From designing to making each piece, I work the jewellery at the bench, from melting material, soldering and filing, setting stones,

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

MY HUSBAND PROPOSED TO ME IN THE DARK WITH A KEYRING polishing – and only rely on a setter who sets the diamonds. I meet lovely clients who come to the shop, I deal with the advertising and display the shows I take part in – I am my own boss.

What is the most romantic location a piece of your jewellery has been given to a loved one at?

I don’t know the answer to that but, on a personal level, my husband proposed to me in the dark near Ramsholt church in Suffolk with a keyring – that was very romantic, and a big surprise.

What is different about your business?

It is very personal. I am a maker, and create every piece of jewellery by hand – any commission is a direct result of conversations with the client.

What are your future business plans?

I am quite content with my set up – I love the workshop, and am happiest at the bench, working with my hands, listening to audiobooks.

In August, I showed at NY Now, a trade show in New York, and I plan to attend the show twice a year for the next three years seeing what that brings. Brexit is begging me to| look elsewhere.

Tell us something about you that may surprise us…

As a member of The Goldsmiths’ Company, I have the Freedom of the City of London, and can herd my sheep across London bridges.

For more: www.tinaengell.com

SPONSORED BY:

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC

Ripples’ Paul and Nicola Crow collect the award

SQUEAKY CLEAN Bathroom retailer Ripples has been named Master Retailer in the bathrooms category at the prestigious ek&bbusiness Awards.

The awards were held at The Brewery in London, and are regarded as among the best in the bathroom industry.

Ripples managing director Paul Crow, says, “The whole team at Ripples has worked incredibly hard to win this very prestigious award, we are absolutely honoured.” www.ripplesbathrooms. com

Levi Davis is thinking on his feet

BATH RUGBY NEWS Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters Bath Rugby’s ranks have been bolstered by a number of key signings.

Argentinian international Lucas Noguera Paz is described as a destructive force at the scrum, with the 24-year-old loosehead signed up while Nathan Catt is out injured.

Explosive winger Levi Davis has signed an academy contract with the club after impressing this season, and Australian hooker Nathan Charles has returned to the club after a spell with Wasps. James Wilson has also agreed a contract extension.

“I can’t wait to start this next stage of my career with Bath,” says Lucas.

“Bath are a very ambitious club, which will be exciting to be part of, and I know I will improve as a player here.”

He was most recently in international action in the

autumn with the Pumas. “Lucas is a great addition to the squad,” says director of rugby Todd Blackadder.

“He’s a very talented young prop, who has already gained a huge amount of experience on the international stage. His all-round skillset is impressive, and he is still relatively young so can get even better.”

And Davis says fans will also see him improve as he’ll be learning from established Bath players.

“I’m in an environment where I’m learning from the likes of Anthony Watson and Semesa Rokoduguni and I couldn’t think of a better place for me to develop as a player,” he says.

Both Charles and Wilson will be with Bath until the end of the season. www.bathrugby.com

MOVING ON UP Specialist elderly client and incapacity lawyer Edward Vidnes has been made a partner in the Bath office of Royds Withy King.

Ed is part of the firm’s 30-strong private client team and specialises in later-life issues, working closely with individuals and their families on a wide variety of issues covering wills, powers of attorney and deputyships, personal injury trusts and estate administration. www.roydswithyking. com

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From city centre conferences to networking breakfasts, make a note of these dates and make them work for you 10 JANUARY

Starting in Business Workshop for those thinking about running their own businesses, and for recent start-ups.

6pm; Bath and County Club; www.coolventures.co.uk 10 JANUARY

Using Social Media for Business Owners, with tips and strategies to get your business noticed.

9am; Bath and County Club; www.coolventures.co.uk

Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

22 JANUARY

29 JANUARY

Bath Life Business Club with guest speaker Tarquin McDonald, chief exec of Bath Rugby Club.

Hear about plans for the Rec and just what it’s like being in charge. £50; 12pm;

Exporting Essentials for Artisans is aimed at artists and creatives looking for new ways to grow sales and tap into overseas markets.

9.30am; The Makery; www.eventbrite.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

TERRIFIC THREE Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now

would be like to live in, including a chance to see for themselves the incredible attention to detail and standard of craftmanship.

“We’re particularly pleased with the range of buyers who’ve been attracted to Holburne Park, which promises to develop into a nicely-balanced community.

“This includes professional couples buying their first home together, families with children and newly-retiring downsizers.”

The development’s architect is Robert Adam, while the interiors have been designed by luxury interior designers Sims Hilditch, known for their fresh take on the English country house look.

You’ll have to hurry if you want to nominate your company for the Bath Life Awards.

The deadline is 12 January at midday!

Businesses have been submitting You’ve not got long their nominations now – so get your since November, Nominations in! but many still leave entering to the last minute – and time is now of the essence.

Finalists will be revealed at midday on 16 January by email, on the Awards site and on Twitter. Finalist-only tickets will also be available from this date, so stand by your emails. They will be strictly first-come, first-served – and last year there were 140 on the waiting list.

“It’s been inspiring to see the volume of nominations flowing in for this year’s awards,” says Steph Dodd, event manager of Bath Life’s publisher MediaClash. “If you’ve not entered yet, there’s still time – but you’ll need to act swiftly as the deadline is fast approaching.”

Companies self-nominate via the awards website and can enter multiple categories. It’s also free to enter.

For the first time ever, ticket sales for the Bath Life Awards have been limited to Sponsors and Finalists only, due to exceptional demand. Those businesses who wish to attend the glittering ceremony at the Assembly Rooms on 1 March should look sharp and enter their nomination before the deadline.

Sponsors of the Awards are led by our long-term Headline Sponsor, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa together with its brand partner Taittinger; plus Platinum Sponsor Bristol Airport; and Savills, Fidelius, Bath Audi, Bath Rugby, Minuteman Press, Stone King, Bluefin, Bath BID, Tile & Flooring, Apex Hotels, Novia, Hope House, Curo, Kersfield, HomeLets, Bryers, First Bath, Hawker Joinery, Bath Volkswagen, soVision IT, Clifton Marquee Company, Hotel Indigo, Sub 13 and Enlightened Lighting. Feature sponsors are Circo, Vistage, SearchStar and Fwd:Thinking.

Silver Sponsors include Mogers Drewett, Pearson May and the Trevor Osborne Property Group.

For more: www.holburnepark.co.uk

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk @BathLifeAwards

THE SHOW HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS A show home has opened at the Holburne Park development on the Warminster Road, Bath.

Sixty-five per cent of the 32 homes for sale in the first phase of the classical development have already been sold, with further interest expected now the doors of the show home have been thrown open.

The fully-furnished threebedroom Bowlby show home is part of the collection of villas, terraced and semi-detached houses being built in the first phase of Holburne Park, and prices start from £545,000.

Vicky Dudbridge, director at Savills, says: “Understandably, buyers are keen to get inside and get a feel for what the homes

LAST CALL FOR NOMINATIONS!

SUCCESSFUL MANAGEMENT

Mike Bedford, Leonie Spencer and Richard Brown at last year’s event

The Assembly Rooms will be the venue for the third Bath Investment Management Conference on 1 February.

The conference is designed to promote the Bath-based investment management sector, provide a year-ahead view on investing options for locally-based investors, and a networking forum for locally-based industry participants and investors.

Richard Brown, co-organiser and private investor, says, “I am delighted that our previous conferences have attracted so many participants and so much interest and support from the local investment community.

“I expect the upcoming conference to provide some thought-provoking views on

investing in 2018.”

The invitation-only conference will feature presentations and discussions on a range of investment topics including economics, geo-politics, asset allocation, alternative investments, property and artificial intelligence.

Mike Bedford, co-organiser and CEO of Woodhill Asset Management, adds: “The investment management sector is a valued contributor to the local economy.

“I expect that the conference will lead to further events targeted at the investment management sector. ” For more: www.bathimc.co.uk

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BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2017

NEW BUSINESS WINNER Sponsored by

ELECTRIC BEAR BREWING CO After just two years, the Bath Life Award-winning brewery has a thirstquenching range of beers on tap So how did it feel to win a Bath Life Award? How did you celebrate? And where is your award now?

It felt amazing, and very unexpected. To get the recognition and plaudits for such a prestigious award from a panel of judges is both humbling and exhilarating. Bath is not short of talented and creative new businesses, and to win in that category was very special.

Our award has been behind the bar in our brewery taproom since we won it.

What do you think makes Electric Bear stand out from its competitors?

We think that the aroma and taste, the quality, consistency and drinkability of our beers shine through. We have a great range of diverse, accessible and delicious beers to choose from – including our highly crushable American Pale Ale called ‘Werrrd!’, through to our superstrength barrel-aged imperial stouts.

How did you get into doing what you do?

Through being fortunate enough to be able to invest in a new business on the back of selling a previous company, and a desire to build a new business from the ground up that makes something I love to drink, and that creates great, worthwhile jobs for talented people.

Has it met or exceeded with your initial plans and expectations?

It has definitely grown much faster than I anticipated. We are already a team of 10 people in just over two years.

Do you think being an active part of the community is important in business?

Absolutely. We have a great connection with the community around us in Newbridge, from the residents who regard us as their ‘local’ (and some of whom work for us in the brewery taproom – our bar based inside the brewery) to the RUH just up the road in Weston.

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

Chris and Jacqueline Lewis know their craft

What do you love most about your job?

Two things mainly: firstly, tasting the end product and seeing others loving it in pubs, bars and restaurants locally, nationally and (more recently) internationally through social media posts and ratings. To see recent postings from Australia by people loving our beers over there is pretty special, and sometimes I need to pinch myself to realise how far we have come in just over two years.

Secondly, working with the highly talented and hardworking team that I have been lucky enough to build here.

WE’RE SO BUSY I HAVEN’T HAD THE TIME TO BREW A SINGLE DROP SINCE WE STARTED Have there been some tricky times for your business?

Oh yes! It turns out making and selling beer is a complex and expensive business, and the production side of things has a lot of moving parts that go wrong surprisingly often.

What do you aim to achieve in the next couple of years?

We will be expanding our production to the limits of the brewery we are in, and at that point we may look to expand brewing volume capacity by establishing a full production brewery at a new site – meaning that we would move brewing of our core, volume beers to a new, larger and purpose-built brewery. The plan is to keep our brewery at The Maltings (where we’re based) as our brewing innovation centre, where we create new recipes and brew smaller batch brews, barrel-aged beers, and generally play about and indulge our creative urges.

What advice would you give someone looking to go into this sector?

Get yourself a home-brewing kit if you don’t already have one, and make some beer, try some recipes and experiment. Get out and try as many different beers and styles as you can – that’s a tough one of course, but it’s one of the requirements of the job, what can I say?

Any news to share, or exciting projects in the pipeline?

We made our first barrel-aged beers this year – our two 10 per cent ABV imperial stouts aged in port and bourbon barrels – and we want to do more with wooden casks this year.

What do you do when you’re not working?

When we have the chance to get away, we love to spend time chilling out in Cornwall.

I’m a Bath Rugby season-ticket holder, and my son is a Manchester United fan so we try to get up to Old Trafford a couple of times a season.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

I try to take on board and learn from those around me, and I seek the best advice and information I can before making decisions.

Tell us something that might surprise us…

I always hoped to be a part of the brewing team at Electric Bear. But I haven’t had the time to brew a single drop since we started!

I’m going to do something about that in 2018.

You can come and drink our beers right in the heart of the brewery in our taproom on Fridays and Saturdays, literally metres away from where they are brewed. You will also often find small-batch, experimental brews not available anywhere else.

For more: electricbearbrewing.com

f i n a n c e a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

Meet the accountant The experts who use their wealth of knowledge to help you save money

nick oliver

FCA FIoD Partner, Pearson May 01225 460491 www.pearsonmay.co.uk What is different about Pearson May? Most accountants are historians who record that which has already happened – and with varying degrees of success and accuracy. At Pearson May we will first always work to understand a client’s goals and ambitions and partner with them to help them achieve their objectives. In this way we will often develop close personal relationships which can be most enjoyable.

What advice would you give to anyone considering accountancy as a career?

Always take time to understand your client and remember that a tax break very rarely turns a poor commercial decision or a weak investment decision, into a good one.

What do you specialise in?

Helping both business and private clients increase their wealth, maintain their wealth and minimise their tax by legitimate means.

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

JOHN TALBOT

martin longmore Partner, Monahans 01225 472 800 www.monahans.co.uk

Partner, Thomas and Ellis 01225 862259 www.thomasandellis.co.uk

What do you specialise in?

Audit and accountancy related services to clients, particularly owner managed businesses and charities. By understanding my clients’ objectives, I provide tailored, strategic advice, and identify and take advantage of planning opportunities which enhance their interests.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Taking over our Bath office from another firm in 2006. I was the first ‘on the ground’ so it was a huge learning curve. I still have many of the staff that we took on at the start and still act for the vast majority of the clients.

What does your firm offer that others don’t?

We build long-lasting relationships with our clients as trusted advisers on tax, commercial, financial and wealth management issues.

This holistic approach allows us to offer a joined-up, proactive and value added service to both protect and enhance our commercial clients’ wealth.

Often our clients become advocates for the firm.

What is the biggest misconception surrounding accountancy?

That it’s dull. That Monty Python sketch all those years ago did us no favours. I really enjoy my job. The variety is incredible – you never know what you’re going to be talking to a client about next. I get such a buzz from helping clients move their businesses forward.

How has accountancy changed in the last few years?

Aside from the technical changes to the accounting standards, the biggest change has been the move to cloud accounting. It means we are able to work much more collaboratively with our small business clients which is a fantastic improvement.

Director, Bishop Fleming 01225 486300 www.bishopfleming.co.uk

What advice would you give to someone looking to pass on their business?

Be clear about what you want for yourself, your family and your business. Allow plenty of time to plan ahead for the time you wish to pass on the business to successors or a third party. Seek advice early on about an exit strategy that encompasses all the tax, financial, commercial and personal issues that need to be addressed, and make sure your will is clear on your personal wishes.

What do you specialise in?

I’m a general practice partner so I have a very broad range of clients – lots of different industries; some very small and a number of much larger businesses. I mainly work with owner-managed businesses and advise on different things – tax drives most of our advice but it very often broadens into much more.

When did your career begin?

I’ve worked for MHA Monahans most of my working life, having started as a trainee in the 80s, with a stint at a national firm.

joanna ellis

What is your favourite part of the job?

I specialise in personal tax and I love explaining and unravelling complicated tax situations and so taking the stress away for clients. It’s wonderful to be able to take the weight off someone’s shoulders.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Building the practice up from just 30 clients to 300 over the last six years has been a fantastic journey. Long may it continue!

What is the biggest misconception surrounding accountancy?

That it has to be expensive.

A good accountancy service should always feel like it’s value for money, whether the work or expert advice has saved you time or money now, or for the future.

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e f i n a n c e

Ian Lloyd

debbie boulton

oli thomas

What is different about Milsted Langdon?

Today we’re one of the UK’s Top 100 accountancy firms but we’re still true to our core values. We owe our growth to recommendations and referrals from those who have seen the benefits of our positive and down to earth advice.

How has accountancy changed in the last few years?

Clients are looking for more value-added consultancy services where we are their business advisor. Gone are the days where accountancy was there simply for compliance!

How has accountancy changed in the last few years?

Over the last couple of years, we have seen technology (specifically cloud and artificial intelligence technologies) make huge strides forward to assist business owners and managers capture and report their financial performance.

Not only does this make compliance (with taxes and statutory reporting frameworks) much easier and quicker, but it also provides businesses with a way to monitor results in real-time.

Partner, Milsted Langdon 01225 904940 www.milsted-langdon.co.uk

Tell us about your service...

Our size means that we are big enough to offer a wide range of specialisms but we remain committed to helping even the smallest client. Our advice is seamless and we are committed to being a single team operating across all our office locations so you can be sure that no matter how many specialists are working on your affairs, our advice will always be joined-up and coordinated.

You’re more than local...

For some of our clients, local support isn’t sufficient so we’re a member of MGI Worldwide, a top 20 ranked global accounting network with some 5,000 professionals in over 250 locations around the world.

We have relationships with accountancy experts in other jurisdictions so you can be assured of the same quality of advice from them as from us. More and more businesses find themselves looking beyond national boundaries, and we are ideally placed to provide the additional support.

Director, Richardson Swift 01225 325580 www.richardsonswift.co.uk

What about the impact of technology?

Cloud accounting has changed the way we interact with clients.

Having real-time information means that we can talk to businesses about their current situation rather than referring to accounts in the past.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering hiring an accountant?

Moving from your existing advisor to a new one is easier than you think. People always assume it’s going to be hassle.

Also, it’s all about relationships.

With a budget package, you won’t always get the advice or service that you need.

What professional accomplishment has made you most proud?

Being a part-owner of Richardson Swift. As an owner myself, I get to experience what my clients go through.

If you weren’t working as an accountant what job would you be doing?

A pathologist. I’ve always enjoyed science and had a job lined up at the BRI in the pathology labs before I switched to accountancy.

Matthew Rogers

Director, Purple Lime 01249 691363 www.purplelime.uk.com

What is the biggest misconception surrounding accountancy?

Most business owners understand their profit and loss account, but some shy away from balance sheets, cash flow statements etc. Once a business owner understands the relationship between the different accounts and ledgers, it all clicks; and the statements become much more valuable to them!

What is the biggest mistake you see people making?

Many entrepreneurs and business owners can get sucked in to working too hard in the business and not affording the time to take a step back to work on the business. Take time every month to steer the direction of the business and make top-level strategic decisions, they start to add value to the business, rather than maintaining the status quo.

FCCA; Director, Clear Vision Accountancy Limited 01249 712074 www.clearvisionaccountancygroup. co.uk What is the biggest misconception surrounding accountancy?

That we are bean counters.

Modern accountants advise business owners on how to grow their businesses, sort their work life balance out and achieve their personal goals. They support you through your business life.

Many accountants claim to be proactive in their marketing and you can identify those who truly are as they illustrate their proactivity through the client stories they share on their websites etc.

What do you specialise in?

Making a difference – that’s why Rob Walsh and I are in business. Through generating financial reports for our clients to make them feel informed on all aspects from tax payments to financial forecasts, we help business owners achieve their personal goals. We have a niche in dentistry and veterinary and have written two books to help make a difference to business owners in these sectors. Rob and I provide a ‘ClearVisioning’ session to discuss the difference we are able to make.

What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering hiring an accountant?

Decide what support you want. An efficient accountant or an efficient accountant and business adviser who can truly make a difference. Look at their client stories and core values and see if they fit with yours.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 87

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

LIME TREE 88 LIFE LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk 112I I BATH CLIFTON I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

LODGE

PROPERTY

This charming, six-bedroom, detached home in Lansdown, Bath, is a secluded haven worth seeking out…

By E V E LY N GR E E N

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATHLIFE LIFE I I 113 89 www.mediaclash.co.uk I CLIFTON

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

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n a leafy, peaceful storybook setting, you’ll find the beautiful Bath stone property that is Lime Tree Lodge. The grounds are what first give it that fairytale flourish; the enchanting, exquisitely maintained south-facing back garden consists of a large lawned area bordered by a Brothers Grimmstyle tall thicket of mature trees and shrubs.

The exceptional detached home itself is equally picturesque and has a cottage-type vibe, but the proportions are anything but petite. And although the property dates from around 1880, inside, it’s a textbook example of how to refurbish and modernise an old building. In 2014, the current owners underwent a major programme of significant improvements, extensions and renovations to the house to create what it is now.

The dazzlingly spacious hall sets a great first impression, and the first room you enter, the sitting room, is a large space in which you’ll find a log-burner and a cosy, warming colour scheme which is carried on throughout the quietly classic abode. Add floor-to-ceiling windows allowing tsunamis of sunlight to gush in, and the place feels as bright and airy as something built yesterday.

Light also floods the open-plan kitchen/dining room which is a little over 40ft in length and, with its central island with Scottish Elm breakfast table and space for a dining table in the end with the bay, forms the central hub of the house. There are a range of fitted units with Corian work surfaces and appliances including two Miele ovens, a Miele hob, a Teppanyaki flat grill and a hot water tap. The utility room can be accessed via the door to the 90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Clockwise, from top left: the classically chic bathroom; the kitchen is a little over 40ft in length; the enchanting garden and terrace; light floods the airy garden room

HOUSE NUMBERS

3,991

square foot of space

6

bedrooms

£2.375M

rear of the kitchen and also contains fitted units and a ceramic sink and provides side access to the garden.

The light-filled garden room – probably our favourite space in the house, with its exposed ceiling beams, walls of windows and skylights – has access to an elevated, south-facing terraced area, which makes a great sitting-out or even al fresco dining area. Also on the ground floor is a cloakroom with a shower and a separate coat cupboard, a bedroom-cum-study with handy built-in storage cupboards.

Head upstairs and you’ll find an impressive master bedroom suite with a box bay window and an impressive amount of fitted wardrobes. There is also a high-spec en suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, as well as four further bedrooms – one with an en suite – and a separate family bathroom.

As for the location of the house, it’s situated on College Road in the heart of Lansdown – which is an extremely popular, sought-after residential area due to its position on the northern side of the city. So if you’re on the lookout for a flawlessly finished, tasteful, bewitching home combining cosiness and sunlight in a serene environment, we’d recommend giving Lime Tree Lodge a look-see. You never know, it may just be the happily-everafter you’ve been looking for.

price

1

Double garage

Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 325999; www.knightfrank.co.uk

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

TENANTS, MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS READY FOR WINTER

H

Peter Greatorex of THE APARTMENT COMPANY explains how to prevent disasters in your home over the winter

appy New Year everybody. I hope you all had a lovely Christmas. As it’s still very cold, we recommend all tenants prepare their homes for the chillier weather. It’s a time of year where people tend to go away in search of some heat or to slide down the ski slopes too, so to help prevent disasters such as burst water pipes, fires, a broken boiler or no heating at all – measures your landlord will greatly appreciate - here are a few things to think about…

Protect your pipes – As temperatures drop below zero, your pipes will expand and contract – especially at night. Frozen pipes prevent water flow, and can eventually burst causing damage.

If you go away for a long weekend or perhaps are heading off to the Alps on your annual skiing holiday or soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, please do keep your heating on low to ensure a constant heat.

Report problems now – If you notice anything wrong, now is the time to report it, before they get

worse and therefore more expensive to repair.

Find out where your stopcock is – In an emergency, you will need to shut off the water supply, so make sure you know where the stopcock is.

Bleed your radiators – Your radiator needs to be the same temperature at the top and bottom to ensure your boiler works safely and properly.

If they’re not, you need to bleed them.

Emergency numbers – Find out the contact details of who you need to call in case of an emergency.

Boiler service – Make sure your boiler has had its annual service. Your landlord or managing agent will know when it needs to be done.

Ventilate – The last thing you want to do is open a window when it’s cold, but occasionally rooms such as your kitchen and bathrooms need to be ventilated to prevent the build up of mould.

Clean open fireplaces – If you have an open fire, you need to have it professionally cleaned once a year to prevent chimney fires. This should be in your contract anyway.

Be careful with candles – It’s tempting when its chilly to light some candles to add a touch of cosiness. Be careful where you place them so that you don’t set anything alight.

Responsible letting agents should make sure that their tenants are safe and warm over the winter. Do have a chat with your landlord or managing agent for any concerns you may have. They will be very grateful that you’re being so responsible.

For more advice visit our blog at www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk/blog.html Sales: 01225 471144 Lettings: 01225 303870 www.theapartmentcompany.co.uk

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B AT H L I V E S

Q&A

H

aving over 30 years’ experience of creating high-end specialist miniatures, Kevin and Susie – of Mulvany & Rogers model-makers, based just outside Bradford on Avon – were the miniature-consultants for BBC One’s The Miniaturist, which aired after Christmas.

Adapted from Jessie Burton’s best-selling novel, the genre-defying, spooky period thriller shows the protagonist’s doll’s house mirroring reality and predicting the future with eerie accuracy. Here, we talk to Susie…

We recreate historical buildings…

These are on a 1:12 scale, and all of our work is to commission. We have miniaturised many lovely buildings including Versailles, Buckingham Palace, the Royal Albert Hall, Hogwarts, and Ralph Lauren.

We felt that doll’s houses of the 1980s were generic and dull…

That’s what inspired us to begin doing what we do, over 30 years ago. As newly graduated art historians back then, we thought there was an opportunity to make doll’s houses with architecturally accurate details – such as downpipes, finely detailed windows and delicate leaded over-doors.

We were recently the consultants for the BBC One drama adaptation of The Miniaturist…

The inspiration for the critically acclaimed novel

by Jessie Burton, was a doll’s house at the Rijkmuseum, Amsterdam. For the adaptation, Jessie and the producer, Kate Sinclair, knew of our work and came to meet us at our exhibition at Ham House. We were asked to advise on the look of the miniatures, and to design, make and source the key miniatures that punctuate the narrative.

We worked closely with the director and costume department to commission portrait dolls of each of the actors from the doll-maker Julie Campbell.

As the miniatures themselves are the focus of the drama rather than the doll’s house, we focused on these and left the building of the house to the art department.

We are a duo but…

When commissioning the many and varied miniatures for our projects, we work with up to 40 other makers, designing and overseeing their pieces. A project can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the size of the original.

Each piece we create is unique…

The process starts with site visits, technical drawings and redesigning the original to suit the format of the scale. Then the basic structure is built from birch wood, and all the various architectural details are made from lime wood, plaster and polymer plaster. The final stage is finishes – paint, gold leaf, French polish etc.

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

KEVIN MULVANY AND SUSIE ROGERS Husband and wife Kevin and Susie, the founders of Mulvany & Rogers, discuss working on BBC One drama The Miniaturist; building a tiny Hogwarts; and why Bath is a huge inspiration…

We love what we do; it’s an incredibly enjoyable way of fulfilling our love of historical architecture...

It grants us unparalleled access into the lives of so many interesting people on the client side. We also have the pleasure of working with some of the top miniaturists in the field today when designing and commissioning other miniaturists to make the beautiful furniture that goes in our buildings.

house travelled the world raising money for the charity.

Our favourite local building is…

The little Gothic cottage up at Sion Hill. Apart from being very pretty in its own right, it’s one of the few brick buildings in Bath. Widcombe Manor House and The Holburne Museum are wonderful too.

The first models we ever created were…

Every single one of the Blue Peter projects. We did this independently as children. Kevin’s favourite was a space rocket from a washing up liquid bottle, and mine was a piggy bank made out of papier-mâché.

The places we love to visit locally include…

The Crystal Palace, for its easy-going bustle; Cafe Lucca, as you’re able to doze like cats in the sunshine behind its huge windows; and St James’s Cafe Deli is a great spot for light lunch.

The Bunch of Grapes in Bradford on Avon, The Inn at Freshford, and Glove Factory Studios in Holt are also great.

You may have seen our work in Bath…

At exhibitions in The Holburne Museum, and No.1 Royal Crescent. Further afield, our work can be seen in museums around the world, but, sadly, a number of our pieces are in private, closed collections.

The best view in Bath is...

Being in the midst of the city’s busyness and looking up to left and right and being able to glimpse green hills.

Bath is a source of motivation to us…

We were inspired to move to Bath from London over 20 years ago. The city has an ordered, elegant vibe which still continues to surprise even now.

Walking along, we look up suddenly to find traces of a wonderful Tudor roofline, an ancient casement or street plan that reminds us that Bath was not always so polite.

The best project we did was back in 1984…

We worked with HRH Prince of Wales and the charity Amref (African Medical Research Foundation) on a house in which each room was designed by a famous interior decorator. This

It warms our hearts to see…

The early models our children made. Having grown up surrounded by our work, they would quite naturally decide to make an 18th-century French clock from a cereal packet, or Château de Fontainebleau from supermarket boxes.

If we owned Bath for a day, we would change…

The paving stones – we’d make them all the same and keep them free of chewing gum. Oh, and we’d build colonnades for relaxed sitting in all weathers, à la Bologna. www.mulvanyandrogers.com