Bath Life - Issue 372

@BathLifeMag

ISSUE 372 / 17 – 31 AUGUST 2018 / £3

ISSUE 372 / 17 – 31 AUGUST 2018 / HOME TRUTHS

DESIRE

© ALI PECK

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Peep inside a house which has been transformed from top to toe (page 106); LEFT: Shop for teal appeal (page 76)

J

ealousy is not an attractive emotion.

My mum always taught me to fight envy with gratitude, because negative thoughts won’t attract positive outcomes. So, here I am, swallowing my sulks, and, instead, admiring the glorious home we’ve featured on page 106 (and on our front cover), hoping that the universe will note my selflessness and gift me one just like it.

The charming weaver’s cottage, based in Bradford on Avon, filled with exquisite salvaged objects and heirlooms, has been transformed – by its conservation architect owner – from a structural wreck into a characterful family abode with a contemporary, rustic-luxe feel.

Elsewhere in this issue, we roam ‘backstage’ at Bath Ruby HQ to speak to the people who play vital roles in the Bath Rugby story but never make the headlines. Meet the hard-working hidden heroes – from Sophie the operations manager, who spends every waking moment with the players, and was even at the birth of one of their babies, to Mike the chef, who tells us that a single lunch he cooks for the players would cover a wedding banquet for 200 people – on page 28.

We’ve also bagged an exclusive interview with the comedic Twitter all-star (oh, and the man who’s sold 20 million albums worldwide) James Blunt, to talk about THAT song, Ed Sheeran, and his upcoming performance in Bath (page 52).

Enjoy!

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

Issue 372 / 17-31 August 2018 COVER Gorgeous vintage and salvage gems from this month’s Residence abode (page 106). Photo by Ali Peck.

THE ARTS

43 ARTS INTRO Celebrating the work of Bath-based

artists Clifford and Rosemary Ellis

44 WHAT’S ON Your stick-it-to-the-fridge local guide 52 THE BIG INTERVIEW James Blunt talks Twitter,

Bath, and that song...

61 BOOKS A trio of titles centred on unorthodox families 63 FILM Must-see flicks to tug at your heartstrings

FOOD&DRINK

© PATRICK KHACHFE/ONSIDE IMAGES

© PAOLO FERL A

© SHAMIL TANNA

64 RESTAURANT We’re at The Scallop Shell – Marco

Pierre White’s favourite Somerset eaterie, natch

67 TRY 5 Small plates, tasty tapas and mouth-watering

morsels to pick at

68 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Gastronomic goings-on

52

64

75

SHOPPING

75 INTRO 18-carat rose gold earrings to die for 76 EDITOR’S CHOICE The ‘teal’ McCoy...

78 FASHION Stylish summer-into-autumn clobber and

accessories for the fellas

28 78 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 5

Issue 372 / 17-31 August 2018

LIFESTYLE

96 RETIREMENT Freedom, boutique style, and living

life to the full – a new wave of luxury retirement villages is breaking the mould 122 LIVES Craig Jenkins, the new executive chairman of Visit Bath, is in the Q&A chair

BUSINESS

83 BUSINESS INSIDER The latest good-news biz

stories, updates, movers and shakers

PROPERTY

106 RESIDENCE Inside a beautifully restored weaver’s

cottage in Bradford on Avon

113 SHOWCASE Spacious, Grade-II listed Georgian

splendour in Batheaston – the stuff of fairy tales

DEPARTMENTS 9 SPOTLIGHT 12 SOCIETY 23 A MAN’S WORLD

96

113

84 Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Acting Deputy Editor Vel Ilic lauren.scott@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 Editor’s Photo Bonnie Rose Contributors David Flatman, Lauren Scott, Philippa May, Matt Bielby 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 Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Bianca Eccles bianca.eccles@mediaclash.co.uk Production/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 Chief Executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@ mediaclash.co.uk Chief Executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW 01225 475800 www.mediaclash.co.uk @The MediaClash © All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 7

Grand design: Hopkins Architects are behind the University of Bath’s new School of Management

Architecture

BRICKING IT The University of Bath has just received planning permission for a new School of Management on their Claverton campus. The University is investing £70 million in a landmark building that will enable the school to move to the next stage of its teaching, research and student experience – it wants to strengthen its position in the UK and become a top-50 global business school.

The project could create over 100 new jobs, as well as bring general benefits to the city and wider economy (it’s predicted to add over £240 million of value to the local economy of Bath & North East Somerset over the next 25 years).

The building, set to open for the 2020/2021 academic year, will feature an open layout so that joint working can flourish. “We are delighted to have retained Hopkins Architects,” says Professor Veronica Hope Hailey, dean of the School of Management. “We are confident that they will create an inspiring space where staff, students, employers, researchers and returning alumni all choose to spend time with one another.”

For more: www.bath.ac.uk

© HOPKINS ARCHITECTS

SPOTLIGHT Women in photography

GIRL POWER

An international photography campaign has just been launched

by Bath-based organisation, the Royal Photographic Society (RPS).

The campaign, Hundred Heroines: Celebrating Women in Photography Today, is asking the public to nominate their heroines of contemporary photography, not just in Bath, but also across the world.

The aim of the project is to discover (and celebrate) female photographers whose work is currently overlooked, as well as better-known names.

Do you know an inspiring local female photographer? Nominations are open now until 28 September and can be made online or on Instagram (@RPS100Heroines).

After judging, the final hundred heroines will be announced on 14 December, marking the centenary since some women were first given the vote.

“I come across so many amazing women in photography, and yet their voice is nowhere near as powerful as their male counterparts,” says Del Barrett, vice president of the RPS. “We are working to ensure that there are no barriers in photography.

Hundred Heroines is a major step towards this, raising public awareness of the excellent work being created by women globally.”

A landmark exhibition of the campaign will follow next year.

For more: www.rps100heroines.org

Lottie #1, by London-based photographer, Felicity McCabe

College courses

CONFIDENCE-GROWER Bath College students on an Adult Community Learning course have been growing their confidence and workplace skills after recently hosting a successful plant sale at Bath City Farm.

As part of the ‘Roots to Work’ programme (in partnership with Julian House), students had to flex their skills in business planning, marketing, IT, budgeting, customer service as well as practical gardening.

They worked twice a week at Bath City Farm for over two months, growing hundreds of plants from seed and creating promo materials. The hundreds of herbs, vegetables and flowers on sale raised £400 (£100 to Bath City Farm, and £300 to Julian House).

The course is designed to build confidence and help students get into the workplace, and referals come from Julian House through their guidance service for unemployed people in B&NES. “It has been fantastic to see the positive change that the course has had in those who have been involved,” says Andy Charlton from Julian House.

For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk Roots to Work growers www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 9

SPOTLIGHT

Gents, welcome to Moonwalk!

Charity

WALKING IN THE MOONLIGHT

Dorothy House’s much-loved Bath Moonlight Walk is back, and this year (for the first time) both men and women are being encouraged to enter. The eight-kilometre walking event raises vital funds for local hospice care, and will take place around Bath city centre on 15 September.

Last year’s Bath Moonlight Walk raised £60,000, and, for the upcoming 12th annual walk, the charity hopes to raise even more. There’s a 1980s theme (‘Walk Back To The 80s’), and the warm-up before the walk will include a mass participation ‘moonwalk’ lesson. Setting out from SouthGate shopping centre at 10pm, the night-time saunter takes in the main sights of Bath.

Walkers (anyone over 14 can join) are welcome from 8.30pm to enjoy the fun atmosphere, entertainment, and a raffle to win a luxury Mulberry handbag.

“We are very excited to be including men in the Bath Moonlight Walk this year,” says events fundraiser, Emily Knight.

“We hope ladies will bring along their husbands, dads, brothers and friends so we can raise even more funds for Dorothy House.”

For more: www.bathmoonlightwalk.org.uk

Healthy homeless

BEST FOOT FORWARD

Local nurse Claire Coleman has won a prestigious award, in recognition of her ongoing work to help local homeless people in Bath keep their feet healthy. Claire is a Homeless Health Outreach Nurse from the Heart of Bath Medical Partnership, and she recently received an Innovation Award from the Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) for her Best Foot Forward project.

The project, which was set up by Claire last year, involves regular sessions at Bath’s Julian House hostel. “Homeless people do a lot of walking, have poor footwear and often don’t take off their shoes at all, especially if it’s cold,” she says. “We run daily sessions where people can come in to soak their feet and give them a clean.” She added that it was an honour to receive the QNI Innovation Award, which was presented to her by actor Stephen McGann (Dr Turner in the hit TV show Call The Midwife). “I underestimated the positive effect the project would have on so many people’s lives.”

For more: www.qni.org.uk Claire Coleman (fourth from left) et al, with Stephen McGann

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Literature

THE WRITE STUFF

Bookish types take note – Bath publishers Handheld Press have set up a new city book group, based in the Beaufort Bookshop in Larkhall.

“I’ve been looking for a book group for my own enjoyment,” says Kate Macdonald, director of Handheld Press. “Because I love older books, I wondered if there was anyone else out there who wanted to discover or rediscover old favourites and older authors whom we’ve missed or who have been forgotten.

“I posted a notice about this and had a lot of enthusiastic responses, so we’re starting in September. I’ve chosen a book for us to read for every month – we’re reading British fiction this year, and if the group goes well, we’ve already had a request to add poetry to the mix for future years.

“Authors this year include Una L. Silberrad, Margery Allingham, Siegfried Sassoon, Terry Pratchett, Barbara Pym, Mary Renault and Sylvia Townsend Warner. All the novels are thoroughly enjoyable – I hope there will be something for everyone.”

Starting from 11 September, the book group will take place on the second Tuesday of each month, from 7.45pm to 9.45pm. All details and a downloadable reading list can be found at www.handheldpress.co.uk

SOCIETY

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H

Sipping vino in the gardens of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Victoria Tilstone, Clarisse Grelet and John Colvin Guests await their lunch

Helen Rich, Jayson Godridge, Tim Moss and Annie Moss

VISION FOR BATH

Branis Kojic and Stephen Pile

Guests at July’s Bath Life Business Club gained an insight into the challenges of transforming and running an iconic local establishment, thanks to speaker Jonathan Stapleton, the general manager of The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. The interview with Jonathan took a closer look at Bath’s saturated accommodation stock and why he feels the Bath tourism model needs to adapt to attract high-yield visitors. Along with the thought-provoking conversation, guests also enjoyed a fine two-course lunch at the hotel’s Dower House restaurant.

Photos by Eoin at Soul Media; www.soul-media.co.uk

Steve Hawkins and Fiona Powell Richard Gordon Brown, Branis Kojic, Pat White and Stephen Pile

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James Bradley

Greg Harris and Scott Gurd

DISCOUNTS ON FURNITURE, LAMPS, MIRRORS, FABRICS & WALLPAPER. SALE ENDS 31st AUGUST

www.rossitersofbath.com

SOCIETY

Jane Manning, Roger Smith and Lesley Smith

Roger Elliott and Pauline Andrews

Nick and Virginia Darragh-Williams

SIGNING SUCCESS

A launch party at the Apex Hotel was recently held for local author Mary Monro’s first published book, Stranger In My Heart, a gripping voyage of discovery about her artillery officer father – and herself – retracing his heroic escape across China, after being taken prisoner by the Japanese during World War II. Around 80 guests enjoyed champagne, canapés, and a special reading. Although plenty of party-goers had pre-ordered the memoir, many wanted to buy extra copies for friends and family, and Mary spent an hour happily signing them. “I felt truly honoured by everyone who came,” she says. “It was a treat to meet the next generations of men who had fought or escaped with dad at Hong Kong.”

Photography by Paul Gillis; www.paulgillisphoto.com

Kate Groves and Christina Evans

Author Mary Monro with the Mayor of Bath Georgie Monro and Luke Dixon

June Evans, William Bush and Carole Mortimer Ana Bertolossi and Clara Pichel

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Sue Turner and Louise Owen

Will Kinsey and Jane Kinsey

SOCIETY

Nicole Worboys, Molly Malleson and Torie Leadbeater

The Mint Room’s Moe Rahman with Basanti Soyful Alom (head chef, The Mint Room) with Ghost the barn owl

Owl artists Tony Hitchcock and Rita Lazaro

BY OWL MEANS

Basanti, one of the eye-catching sculptures on the Minerva’s Owls of Bath trail, was recently unveiled at The Mint Room on Lower Bristol Road, Bath. The restaurant celebrated her arrival by hosting an owl sponsors and artists evening at their sunny Piper Heidsieck rooftop champagne bar. Guests enjoyed spiced bites and cocktails, and real owls came to visit from the West of England Falconry Centre, delighting party-goers with their antics.

Basanti’s Bollywood-inspired design was created by local artist Elysia Paterson, who also decorated two other owls on the trail. The Minerva’s Owls charity auction is on 17 October, at the Assembly Rooms in Bath.

Megan Witty with Kotori the screech owl

Photography by Roy Newport

Guests enjoy The Mint Room’s rooftop champagne bar

Artist Bunny, James Sullivan-Tailyour, Claire Hembrough, Elysia Paterson, Lucy James, Alex Kay and Matt James Wendy Race and Mike Watts

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Owl artists Stephanie Sandall and Elysia Paterson

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SOCIETY

Lynne Fernquest and Halena Coury

Sophie Williams and Bob Mytton

LIFE’S A BEACH

Rachel Walker Christa and Ian Taylor

There was a distinctly tropical vibe at the recent opening of The County Hotel’s pop-up beach bar – which runs until the end of September – as guests enjoyed plenty of cool cocktails, menu tasters, chilled beats and even a bit of sand between their toes. Ah, fun and sunshine – all that’s missing is the sea…

Photos by Paolo Ferla; www.ferlapaolo.com

Marcus Whittington and Adam Lloyd-Smith Victoria Lopez-Thirsk, Dave Dixon, Julie Gunes and Kartini Sututo

Heather Fell, Katy Whyte and Amy Williams Ooh, don’t mind if we do...

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

Max Campbell-Howard, Jane Campbell-Howard, Jonathan Walker and Adrian Campbell-Howard

SOCIETY

Daniel Lyons presents the Brain of Bath trophy to the City Financial Planning team

Ben Gough, Tom Williams and James Smith Nadja Gormley, Tom Allen and Ellen Crozier

QUESTION TIME

Cat Collis and Linsey Derrick

Julian House recently held its 20th anniversary Brain of Bath quiz at the Assembly Rooms, with 16 corporate teams taking part, raising an estimated £10,000 for the homelessness charity. After 120 questions, it was City Financial Planning who won the coveted trophy, followed closely (just two points behind) by former champs, BMT. And quizmaster Will Glennon added extra colour to the evening with his insights into the role of a news presenter.

“This is one of the most popular fixtures in the Julian House calendar,” says fundraising director, Cecil Weir, who has been organising the event for 17 years. “The atmosphere is terrific and although competitive by its very nature, the banter is fantastic.”

Photos by Cecil Weir; www.julianhouse.org.uk

BEST IN SHOW

Parents and guests enjoy the show Year 13 students Andre, Charlotte, Lea-Sophie and Jasper with head of art, Stephen Brown

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Year 12 student Alexia with her handmade glass coffee table

Guests from the local community and art scene gathered to celebrate the work of art, design and technology students at Kingswood School’s ‘Made in Kingswood’ exhibition. The school also welcomed Nick Woodhouse and John Law from Bath interior and garden design company Woodhouse & Law, who spoke to students and guests about their passion for the visual arts.

Awards were also presented to celebrate pupils’ individual achievements.

“We value the creative arts hugely at Kingswood,” says Simon Morris, headmaster of Kingswood Senior School. “It’s a real delight to see the students’ outstanding work displayed in this way.”

Nick Woodhouse, John Law, artist’s model Uliana, and Stephen Brown

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Seas the day Flats takes to the water on his ‘Devon dodgem’ and wonders if he would be happier owning a superyacht. Yes, he would, he concludes…

© TAKING PICTURES

I

“It’s fun to imagine yourself dropping a few mill on a superyacht”

concede that slowly thumbing out this Bath Life column from the rear lounge seats of one’s boat is particularly smug, but that’s just the way it is, I’m afraid.

Well, pretty much. I am on the rear seats of a boat, but the word ‘lounge’ seems to overdo it somewhat. It is a lovely boat, and it does have seats, but it’s not one of those multimillion pound super jobs, but a more modest Devon dodgem of sorts. Oh, and it’s not mine. But let’s not waste our lives on the semantics. I’m moored up in Salcombe harbour, waiting for the water taxi to take me back to shore. The fact that I haven’t yet called and requested said taxi might well result in an extended period of light bobbing and perhaps even some intensive snoozery – a well-worn marine holiday tactic.

Around us (I’m alone, but the boat and I are now one) are some of the most outrageous homes and boats this side of Monaco.

I flit past on what I regard as a wonderful vessel and I wonder, would I actually be any happier if my holiday home were that fabulous and if my boat had three bedrooms and a tanning deck and two kitchens and a whole separate floor for water-based toys? Yes, yes I would. I should imagine that the trips to the fuel barge to refill would sober me up pretty readily but, that financial day-terror aside, it would just be sensational fun and I simply refuse to believe those who claim otherwise.

As it is, the boat is perfect, seeing as it’s a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) and can therefore bump

into the odd Sunseeker without causing any real harm. This is key when you’re that townie who rocks up with his super-dooper machine but can’t actually drive it brilliantly yet. Many a leatherfaced fishing type has regarded and giggled at my attempts to slide in for a spot of lunch. And many a 10-year-old has weaved past me, making it all look ever so simple. Now that’s smug.

It seems to take about a week to adjust to the relentlessness of time with your own children, without the reduction in both ambient volume and bickering offered by a day at work. After that, it’s lush.

Both of the Flatman girls are now bronzed, curly, totally underrested and uncomfortable in anything but bikinis and flip flops.

The Algarve it ain’t (I do very much want to go there, though; perhaps a writing trip is in order, just for inspiration etc), but it’s swelteringly hot, as beautiful as a postcard, and there’s lovely grub everywhere.

So it’s fun to imagine yourself popping to the local superyacht broker and dropping a few mill on a four-bed, but, while that remains unlikely to come about before autumn, the sight of wet, salty, sun-golden children romping and laughing and diving and daring is surely enough to make anyone feel as fortunate as can be. Now, better call this taxi, but only after a little dad-nap.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 23

THE TEAM BEHIND THE TEAM We snoop behind the scenes at Bath Rugby to meet the unsung heroes who make it all happen

© Patrick Khachfe/Onside Images

By Lisa Evans

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

Bath Rugby

“You go through every emotion on the sidelines.

We are one big team”

T

he country’s media have gathered at Farleigh House – the stunning HQ of Bath Rugby – ahead of the return of the city’s sporting heroes to The Rec. Ahead of Bath’s first pre-season match there in four years, the club’s media day has attracted the interest of journalists from far and wide, all eager to speak to director of rugby Todd Blackadder, catch a word from new signings Jamie Roberts and Joe Cokanasiga, or renew acquaintances with returning players Dave Attwood and Sam Underhill.

Bath Life, meanwhile, has chosen to roam ‘backstage’ – the kitchens, the medical office, the gym – in search of the people who play vital roles in the Bath Rugby story but never make the headlines. Meet the hard-working hidden heroes right here…

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 29

BATH RUGBY EXECUTIVE CHEF Michael Bache

“I’m responsible for all things catering at Farleigh House and The Rec – this includes elite sports nutrition, performance food development, fine dining banquets and match-day hospitality.

“I take my classical training and fine dining experience, apply sports nutrition knowledge, and then I develop my recipes and menus to suit the players. The recipes are tailored for the physical demands of being an athlete, and everything the players eat is traceable and made from scratch using fresh, whole foods.

“The role of a chef can also assist with injury recovery. There are lots of ingredients which have medicinal purposes, and getting the athletes to eat the correct ingredients at the correct time can be very important to help maximise a player’s potential or rehabilitation. This is where a nutritionist and chef need to work together.”

© CIAR AN HYND/BATH RUGBY

AN INTERESTING FACT… I’ve started giving group cooking lessons to the players; in recent years, the boys have started to understand how important food is to their performance. Some of them try to eat up to 7,000 calories a day, so you need to be sensible in how you can achieve that. I also give Toby Booth cooking lessons via text message on Sunday mornings when it’s his turn to cook for his family – just don’t tell his wife!

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

A BIG CHALLENGE… The sheer volume of food the players need. I cater for 80 people, three times per day. The amount of food I order for one Bath Rugby lunch would cover a wedding banquet for 200 people.

DID YOU KNOW…

• The Rec suffered extensive damage when, in April 1942, the city was hit by a German bombing raid. The West Stand was destroyed and the North Stand severely damaged.

A FUNNY MOMENT… Watching Freddie Burns run away when he saw me holding a large brown crab. Oh, and Luke Charteris was my potato peeler for the day because he was late to a rugby meeting – his face was a picture when he saw the 60kg of potatoes that needed peeling.

LEAST POPULAR MEAL… Fish doesn’t go down too well with the players; Ross Batty is very good at making himself heard when I serve something from the sea.

SURPRISE US… Todd Blackadder and I are making our own prosciutto ham; we’re currently one month into a 12-month process – so far it looks great.

DO YOU FEEL PART OF BATH RUGBY’S SUCCESS? Absolutely – we are one big team. When we win, we win together, and when we lose, we lose together.

“The amount of food for one Bath Rugby lunch would cover a wedding banquet for 200 people”

ARCHITECTS BATH RUGBY ACADEMY PATHWAY COACH

Ryan Davis

“My primary role is leading the Academy under-18s squad, which includes all of our best 16-18 year-olds. I coach this group alongside Mark Lilley who I work with in the Bath Academy. The programme is designed to create opportunities for the boys to learn and explore the game across key areas, and to hopefully then go out and express themselves in school rugby, club rugby and, ultimately, in our Academy fixtures against other premiership clubs.

“The role of the Academy is to identify the next firstteam players who are going to represent Bath. Being an ex-player (former Bath Rugby), I have experienced how coaches have a huge impact on a teenager’s life and how our interactions can influence many areas of their development. So I see myself not just as a coach, but a mentor that supports these young athletes on their journey. Our main aim is for the club to have 50 per cent home-grown players within the next four or five years, and my role plays a big part in that.”

“Darts has become an obsession in the office”

MEMORABLE MOMENTS… Finding out that coach Louis Messer has ridiculous OCD for organisation, and realising that Mark Lilley prefers food and scrums to life itself.

GIVE US A BEHIND-THESCENES INSIGHT… Darts has become an obsession in the academy office. Academy manager Andy Rock loves a competition, which is great to lift spirits.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? My obsession at the moment is interior design, especially after being involved in renovating my house.

DID YOU KNOW…

• The club was first called Bath Zouaves, then Rovers, then Wanderers. The club then became known as Bath Football Club, until rugby became professional, when the name Bath Rugby stuck.

• Club president David Trick once spent

the night before a game sleeping in the boot of a car on Great Pulteney Street.

He went on to score five tries the day after.

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© PATRICK KHACHFE/ONSIDE IMAGES

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE A WIN? There’s nothing like having a drink in town after a good win and listen to the supporters recount the key moments of a big game.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION PROGRAMME Caryl Thomas

“At Bath Rugby Foundation – the charitable arm of Bath Rugby – we utilise the power of sport to focus on young people living in poverty, with disabilities, in minority groups or not in education, employment or training, and we develop impactful programmes that will create positive change.

“The Foundation has moved to The Rec, and we’ve increased our delivery within the city centre, making The Rec more communityfocused and accessible for all. In the past year, we’ve delivered projects focusing on employability skills (Hitz), increasing access to sport for people with disabilities (Hi 5! Sports Club, Project Rugby, Try Active) and health projects for male-only groups (Move Like a Pro) and

© NICK COLE PHOTOGR APHY

“I climbed Kilimanjaro in 2016, and, this year, I trekked to Everest Base Camp”

women-only groups (Us Girls).

By building the relationships with the young people and their families out within their locality, we can build a real sense of belonging and pride of the young people within the city.”

DID YOU KNOW… • Frank ‘Buster’ Soane was the club’s longest-serving captain, wearing the armband from 1890-1898.

DO YOU PLAY RUGBY? I’ve been playing for Wales for 12 years; it hasn’t been easy living in Bath and committing to the travel, but I do enjoy living in the West Country. I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved in three World Cups and many Six Nations tournaments, and I achieved my 50th appearance in the final Six Nations game in 2018.

MEMORABLE CAREER MOMENT? One of the best achievements was the first mixed-ability rugby game at Twickenham during half-time at The Clash 2017. It just goes to show how sport is progressing and everyone can aspire to play at national stadiums and feel included in a big day for the rugby club.

SURPRISE US… I’m into challenges. I ran the Bath Half on behalf of the Foundation, I climbed Kilimanjaro in 2016, and, this year, I trekked to Everest Base Camp.

© Patrick Khachfe/Onside Images

Bath Rugby

Rugby operations manager Sophie Bennett

“I look after the players off the pitch; from the moment they are signed, I have contact with them and help with organising flights, accommodation, car, visas, and registration. Dayto-day, I prepare all the logistics for the matches, and on match days, I work pitchside and make the replacements with Did you know… direction from the • Bath Rugby, together with Bath coaches.

Rugby Foundation and Arena 1865, “It’s an all-consuming have plans to build a new, modern role; one day I could stadium at The Rec. The first be attending a player concepts for how this could look disciplinary down in were released last month.

London, and the next I could be organising team-building activities.

I’m basically the centre point for the rugby department, with most things coming to me, which I will then distribute out.”

How did you end up here?

My career goal was to be team manager of a men’s professional team, so it was hard not to get excited when I got this opportunity to work with such a successful club. I was one of the first females to hold this role, but hopefully this has paved the way for more women with like-minded aspirations. what’s it like working in a male-dominated environment?

From an outsider’s point of view, it’s a daunting to be the only female in the office – and one of two in the rugby department – but I take it in my stride. It’s a very fun, but professional, working environment.

Everyone has the same goal – to win trophies – so it’s all about creating those tight-knit relationships.

Everyone plays their role in the club’s success – from the kit man to the medical team – and, for me, if I know that I’ve been a small part of the jigsaw, then I know I’ve done my job well.

How often do you see the players?

Every day, even on days off. It’s a round-the-clock profession, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. House-hunting is actually a really good way of getting to know a player and their family.

“I was at the birth of one of the player’s babies – that was such a special time”

memorable moment?

I was at the birth of one of the player’s babies – that was such a special time.

When Bath win, do you feel a part OF their success?

Definitely. You go through every emotion on the sidelines.

We’re one big team, and I think that shows by the environment we have created.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

BATH RUGBY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH

Guy Lewis

“My primary role with the club is as a strength and conditioning coach for the first team squad. I’m also responsible for the first team nutrition programme. As team nutritionist, I regularly monitor the players’ weight and body composition and then make recommendations based on whether a player needs to gain muscle, lose weight or boost performance. Good nutrition can’t make an average player great, but it can help them maximise their athletic potential and perform to the best of their ability.”

HOW DOES THE MENU DIFFER ON REST DAYS AND GAME DAYS? Higher intensity days typically include more starchy carbs, to boost performance and aid recovery. On rest days, the players will get most of their calories from protein and fat, as opposed to carbs, as their energy demands are lower. Preparation for the game starts the day before, and is all about consuming quality sources of carbohydrates and easily digestible proteins to maximise glycogen storage.

DID YOU KNOW…

• The first set of colours the club

played in was blue shirts and white shorts, with red caps being worn off the field, and sometimes on it.

During the 1920s, Bath mostly wore red socks and were known as the ‘Red Socks’ in some parts. It wasn’t until the 1930s that Bath Rugby wore blue, black and white.

WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU AFTER WORK? Either doing Brazilian jiu jitsu or playing with my little boy.

HOW INTO RUGBY ARE YOU? I was born and raised in South Africa where rugby is religion, so I played from an early age and have always been involved in the sport in some capacity. I only really watch Bath and the Springboks play these days.

“Good nutrition can’t make an average player great, but it can help them perform to the best of their ability” 36 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

© PATRICK KHACHFE/ONSIDE IMAGES

WHAT’S YOUR HIDDEN TALENT? I’m fluent in Spanish.

ARCHITECTS

© CIAR AN HYND/BATH RUGBY

“My sole aim is to support the players to help them get better”

HEAD OF PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS Dan Cooper

footage off to them or have a catch-up about how they are.

“To do my role, an undergraduate degree in sports science is essential. With it being a competitive market, an MSc is preferred by employers but I view applied experience on a level playing field in terms of importance. It’s the balance of qualifications versus experience.”

“The role of analyst is broader than some people think. Our primary aim is to improve the on-field performance through providing objective information to aid the development of the players and their knowledge.

SHARE A BEHIND-THE-SCENES INSIGHT… In addition, we support the coaches, play a part in recruitment and also We have a coffee spin app in the coaches’ office, discover players who have the potential to play which randomly selects someone to make a for Bath. pot of coffee. The roar when somebody gets “This will be my third season with Bath. Prior DID YOU KNOW… selected (and the relief when it’s not you) is to this, I spent four years on the sevens circuit • Bath Rugby will play Bristol Bears at almost as big an adrenaline hit as the coffee with England and Team GB, finishing at the Twickenham in The Clash in April 2019. It itself.

2016 Olympic Games in Rio. will be the first time the local rivals have met “I see the players every day up at our training at English rugby’s HQ since 1984, when YOUR JOB IS TO WATCH RUGBY. DOES facility at Farleigh House. I’m constantly Bath won the national cup for the first time.

IT TAKE THE FUN OUT OF IT? interacting with them at various stages of the No, it’s easy to do when you don’t view it as day, with the sole aim of supporting them to help • Until rugby turned professional in the work, so in that respect, I’m lucky. There is the them to get better.

1990s, the number 13 was rarely worn in the odd moment where you may find a particular “I also catch up with a few of the lads away Bath team. game tough to watch, but it is a rare occasion. from training over a coffee, to either drop some

www.mediaclash.co.uk MEDIACLASH.CO.UK I BATH LIFE I 46 37

BATH RUGBY OUR PICK OF RUGBYTHEMED TREATS Vintage rugby ball, £37.50 From Vintage Sports, based in Lower Swainswick, Bath; www.vintagesport.co.uk Tea towel, £12 From Flamingo, 7 Widcombe Parade, Bath; www.flamingobath.co.uk Chocolate rugby balls, £9.99 From Choc on Choc, based in Rode; www.choconchoc.co.uk Blue, black and white mug, £14.95 From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com Bath Rugby baby romper, £10.99 From The Bath Rugby Shop, 1 Argyle Street, Bath; www.bathrugbyshop.com The Rec sign, £29.95 From The Silver Shop of Bath, 25 Union Passage, Bath; www.thesilvershopofbath.co.uk

MEDICAL ADMINISTRATOR AND MASSAGE THERAPIST

© CIAR AN HYND/BATH RUGBY

Helen Shand

“I provide hands-on therapy and massage to the players, as well as looking after all the medical admin – from booking players in for surgery to dealing with medical insurers.

“During the season, we spend the first couple of days post-game dealing with injuries, which means that generally I spend time on the phone to hospitals and doctors. We also provide a decent block of postgame massage therapy.

“I see players every day; sometimes for treatment, sometimes just in passing. Our medical office is en route from the changing rooms to the meeting room so we make a point of touching base with every player who passes by.

“Over the years, I have progressed from being like their sister to being like their mother. There is no way of getting away from the banter – you have to DID YOU give as good as you get.”

KNOW…

• Bath became the

first British team to become European champions in 1998.

HOW DID YOU COME TO DO THIS? I didn’t really set out to work in rugby, but things just gradually evolved this way. I completed my sports massage qualifications with the intention of working with athletes,

but with no specific sport in mind. In fact, when I was offered the chance to work at the club, I knew practically nothing about rugby, but I had heard of a few of the international players at the club and that Bath was one of the top teams at that time, so I knew it was too good an offer to pass up. It’s not often that opportunities come up in elite sport.

Obviously, over time I have learnt to love the game – even if I don’t fully understand it!

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST ACCIDENT YOU’VE DEALT WITH? I have, unfortunately, seen some fairly serious injuries, but, in most cases, the players have been fixed, recovered and returned to sport. The medical teams that rugby union has in place mean that most of the injuries, which on TV look horrendous, are dealt with immediately and have good outcomes.

HOW INTO THE GAMES ARE YOU? I’m at every Bath game; although, as a medic, I don’t watch the game in the same way as everyone else – I am generally watching to make sure that every player is getting up and moving around as they should.

Sometimes I miss the exciting stuff.

“Over the years, I have progressed from being like their sister to being like their mother” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Preventing sports dental injuries BATH DENTAL CLINIC is proud to sponsor Oldfield RFC Minis and Youth sections, as part of their continuing commitment to support the local community OLDFIELD RFC AND BATH DENTAL CLINIC Oldfield RFC welcomes boys and girls from 5-14 years old, regardless of ability or previous participation in rugby. Children are encouraged to join in and develop their team skills, with the emphasis on games to support their development, confidence and enjoyment of rugby. Teams also participate at local rugby festivals. Last season, 100 children played at Twickenham, prior to Bath Rugby’s ‘Clash’.

For further information about getting your child involved at Oldfield RFC, please contact Jason Humphries or Lee Morris on 01225 834135 or via Oldfield RFC-Pitchero.

available: ready-made, ‘boil-and-bite’, and custom-made. The first two types are commonly used, but can fit poorly, restrict breathing or may be uncomfortable, so they spend more time out of the mouth than protecting it.

Custom mouthguards are provided by your dentist, and they have superior fit and comfort, do not restrict breathing or talking, and are tearresistant and hygienic. These offer unrivalled protection and are recommended by the specialist clinical team at Bath Dental Clinic.

Although custom mouthguards are more expensive than the stock equivalents, treating a lifelong sports-related dental injury is even more costly, not just financially but also psychologically and aesthetically.

For this reason, the specialist clinical team at

Bath Dental Clinic recommend all children visit their dentist and obtain a custom mouthguard before participating in rugby or any other contact sports.

If dental trauma does happen, the team at Bath Dental Clinic can offer specialist-led care in both child and adult trauma, either as a selfreferral, or as a referral made by your dentist.

Of particular benefit to children, we also offer gentle inhalational (gas and air) sedation to minimize any anxiety associated with treating a facial injury. n For further information on the clinical care and services offered at Bath Dental Clinic, please call 01225 333848 or visit bathdentalclinic.co.uk

OLDFIELD OLD BOYS FIXTURES SEPT 2018 – APRIL 2019 DATES

U7 – U12

1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd Sept

Training

U13s

29th & 30th Sept

Training & Sunday match away v Walcot

Away v Walcot

6th Oct & 7th Oct

Training

Home v MSN

13th &14th Oct

Training & Sunday festival at Midsomer Norton

20th & 21st Oct

Training & Sunday match away v Warminster ( no U-11s)

MOUTHGUARDS & PREVENTING SPORTS INJURIES

27th Oct

Holidays

Home v Warminster

3rd & 4th Nov

Training

Away v Melksham

Bath Dental Clinic is also committed to promoting the use of mouthguards by children and adults of all ages participating in sports which involve contact, falls or flying equipment.

In fact, sports participants are 60% more likely to damage their teeth and oral structures when not wearing a mouthguard.

Sportsguards, mouthguards, gumshields and mouth-protectors are different names for the same thing – a device worn over your teeth that protects from blows to the face and head.

Mouthguards typically cover the upper teeth, and are designed to protect against broken teeth, cut lips, other traumatic damage to the mouth and jaws, injury to others and concussion.

There are three types of mouthguards

10th & 11th Nov

Training & Sunday match away v Trowbridge

Away v Frome

17th Nov

Training

24th & 25th Nov

Training & Sunday match home v Colerne

1st & 2nd Dec

Training & Sunday match away v Melksham

8th Dec

Training

Away v BOA

15th & 16th Dec

Training & Sunday Christmas party

Home v Chew Valley

22nd & 29th Dec

Holidays

5th Jan

Training

12th & 13th Jan

Training & Sunday match away v Corsham U-12s only TBC

19th & 26th Jan

Training

2nd & 3rd Feb

Training & Sunday match away v Midsomer Norton

Away v Chippenham

9th & 10th Feb

Training & Sunday match home v Warminster (no U-11s)

Away v Warminster

16th Feb

Holidays

23rd & 24th Feb

Training & Sunday match away v Combe Down

2nd March

Training

9th & 10th March

Training & Sunday match away v Colerne

16th & 17th March

Training Bath Half weekend

23rd & 24th March

Training & Sunday match away v BOA (incl U-12s)

30th March

Training & Mother’s Day weekend

6th & 7th April

Training & Sunday match home v Avonvale

13th & 20th April

Holidays

27th April

BBQ

Away v Keynsham

Away v MSN

Home v Frome

Away v Corsham

Home v BOA

Away v Chew Valley

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 41

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

NEW NATURALISTS The work of Bath-based artists Clifford and Rosemary Ellis – whose artistic partnership spanned more than five decades – is soon to be celebrated in a brand new exhibition, Making Art Matter, at Victoria Art Gallery.

Graphic artist Clifford Ellis (1907-1985) was best known for his time as head of the pioneering Bath Academy of Art, based at Corsham Court in Wiltshire from 1946, which is also where he met his wife Rosemary Collinson (1910-1998). Love blossomed, and after the pair married in 1931, they worked as partners designing iconic posters for London Transport, as well as book jackets for the Collins New Naturalist series.

Making Art Matter will include many gems from the Ellis Family Archive (which was given to the gallery in 2016), including the wartime diary of Rosemary Ellis, and posters designed in the 1930s for clients such as Shell and BP. Imagery reflects an overwhelming love of the British countryside and the curious creatures that inhabit it.

Signing their work simply ‘C&RE’, the duo shared a love of fresh, bright colour and bold design. The exhibition will also feature paintings and prints by other artists who studied or taught at Bath Academy of Art, including the likes of Gillian Ayres, Howard Hodgkin and John Eaves.

Making Art Matter: Clifford & Rosemary Ellis will run from 8 September to 25 November 2018.

For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

WHAT’S ON 18 August 16 September

Jimmy Aldridge and Sid Goldsmith bring folksong to Chapel Arts Centre

EXHIBITIONS Until 19 August

EVOLUTION Local group Trinity Artists present their new exhibition, which sees 11 painters and 3D artists responding to the theme of evolution – figuratively and abstractly – with an array of exciting new work. Meet the artists over a glass of wine on 14 August, 6-9pm. 10am – 6pm, Walcot Chapel; Facebook: @TrinityArtists

Until 28 August

BATH LIFE An exhibition showcasing works of art that depict the vibrant city we call home. Bath Life (not to be confused with our magazine) brings together 13 talented artists outside

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

of the usual ART Salon stable in a celebration of the summer. Artists on show include Paul Weaver and Chris Webb.

ART Salon; www.artsalon.co.uk

Until 31 August

SUMMER EXHIBITION An annual showcase of works from Rostra Gallery’s most talented artists, including Helen Burgess, Clare Halifax and Glynn Macey.

The exhibition includes limitededition prints, original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, papercuts and jewellery – to suit all budgets.

Rostra Gallery; www.rostragallery.co.uk

Until 31 August

AUGUST EXHIBITION See Emma Rose’s exuberant Minerva Owl on display, and then

swing over to her gallery to see her award-winning landscape, contemporary and semi-abstract work. Her unique work and paintings just zing with warm life (we love The Colours of Time), a mix of Indian inks and acrylics with gold, copper and silver leaf.

Emma Rose Gallery; www.emmaroseartworks.com

Until 2 September

A CELEBRATION OF FLOWERS Fabric designer Kaffe Fassett returns to Bath with a vibrant exhibition inspired by his love of flowers. With a bespoke and dazzling colour scheme, his installation will transform the gallery using 40 vibrant coloured quilts and needlepoints. Expect

large-scale works, which extend the floral theme into three dimensions.

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 3 September

SUMMER SHOW See the latest paintings by Malcolm Ashman, large landscapes by Andrew Lansley in egg tempera, abstract compositions by Stephen Lavis, and a selection of work by gallery artists. The exhibition provides a rich and plentiful variety of original work from £200£4,500. David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

Until 8 September

ADRIAN PARNELL In choosing the humble wildflower as his focus, artist Adrian Parnell

WHAT’S ON draws us away from the more popular and opulent rose, introducing us to a more whimsical and delicate study that reminds us of simpler things, such as walks in the countryside and summery picnics. In this recent body of work, he favours shades of yellow, from rich golden hues to earthy ochre.

Axle Arts, Bath; www.axlearts.com

Until 16 September

PRIZED POSSESSIONS Dutch 17th-century paintings by some of the finest masters of the ‘Golden Age’ (from National Trust collections around the country) are displayed together for the first time – including a recently rediscovered self-portrait of Rembrandt – along with local gems from Dyrham Park. £9/£10; The Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 16 September ABOVE: Tidmouth by Clifford and Rosemary Ellis, from the Making Art Matter exhibition LEFT: Owl Minerva at the Emma Rose gallery BELOW: Adrian Parnell's Buttercups and Daisies oil painting at Axle Arts

A BRILLIANT ALTERNATIVE A vibrant mixture of new work by members of the Association for Contemporary Jewellery, using an exciting range of materials including sterling silver, resin and recycled discarded skateboards. The show will appeal to a broad range of tastes, from traditional to quirky.

Waller&Wood, Abbey Green; www.garywoodceramics.co.uk

Until 21 October

BATH TO BAGHDAD Discover an eclectic collection of art, formed by Miss Ellen Tanner following her journey to the Middle East in the 1890s. From sumptuous textiles to delicate carved woodwork, and lacquer to elaborate metalwork, pieces are on display for the first time following a major conservation project.

Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 28 October

SIDE BY SIDE: AMERICA AND WORLD WAR I 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of America’s first major military engagement in the Great War 1914 – 1918, and this exhibition uncovers the relationship between the US and Europe, as well as reflecting on those who went into battle, and those who stayed at home.

Various prices; The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 28 October

THE BECKFORD WOMEN Exhibition exploring the lives of the women who influenced – and were influenced by – art collector,

author, builder and all-round English eccentric, William Beckford.

Various times and prices; Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

Until 30 November

THE ART OF THE CIRCLE Featuring work by artists Howard Jeffs, Stephen Magrath and Kirsten Murphy, using the shape of the circle as a connecting theme. The natural circles of the sun and moon have always been observed in our history, and this collection uses the fixed, powerful shape to display a range of prints.

Circle Bath Hospital; www.artatruh.org

Until 12 November

A QUEST FOR WELLNESS Beijing-based artist Zhang Yanzi takes a look at healing and wellbeing from the Chinese tradition, with large-scale installations, paintings and more. It should appeal to those with a curiosity about the human body, the human condition, medicine and healing. The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 1 January 2019

WONDER WOMEN OF SPACE A free exhibition celebrating the wonder women who are changing the way we see the world and beyond. The museum talks to leading female astrophysicists, astronomers and engineers to find out what inspires them.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy; wwwherschelmuseum.org.uk

8 September – 25 November MAKING ART MATTER A showcase of the graphic works and illustrations of Bath-based artists (and husband and wife) Clifford and Rosemary Ellis, whose artistic partnership spanned more than five decades. The pair loved bright and bold design, and their imagery reveals an overwhelming interest in, and love of, the British countryside.

(See Arts intro on previous page.)

Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

PLAYS/SHOWS Until 25 August

THE PRICE Arthur Miller’s riveting drama tells the story of two long-estranged brothers, Victor and Walter Franz, meeting in their former childhood home following the death of their father. Celebrated actor David Suchet stars as furniture dealer Gregory

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 45

WHAT’S ON Solomon, with Olivier Awardwinning actor Brendan Coyle as Victor. Various times and prices; Main House, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 1 September

SWITZERLAND In the Swiss Alps, a reclusive author hides away in her study, surrounded by her collection of books and antique weaponry, finding solace in her seclusion, her cats and cigarettes. Then, a polished and charming young stranger turns up. Teeming with razor-sharp dialogue, this chilling and sometimes hilarious twohander unfolds into a gripping psychological thriller. Various times and prices; Ustinov, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

23 – 26 August

VANITY FAIR Becky and Amelia are best friends who, having just finished school, are ready to dive into the glittering summer social scene.

As fortunes shift and friendships fall apart, Becky manipulates her way to the highest level of society, but will her vanity come before a fall? In the third year of the Summer Company, expect a unique theatrical experience, as 40 teenagers take you through Thackeray’s satire of wannabes and social climbers. Various times and prices; the egg, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

18 – 19 August

BATH FOLK FESTIVAL Now in its ninth year, the festival celebrates all flavours of traditional music. Expect concerts, lively pub and café sessions, storytelling, dance and the popular Bath Traditional Music Summer School.

This year’s line-up includes Irish guitarist John Doyle and travelling troubadour Rory McLeod.

Various times and prices, venues around Bath; www.bathfolkfestival.org

19 August

ÅKERVINDA Join this all-female Scandi vocal quartet for an evening of folk tales and a sublime contemporary take on traditional folk songs, with intricate and unusual vocal arrangements and lots of room for invention and improvisation.

Komedia Arts Café; www.komedia.co.uk

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

24 August

CHORAL CONCERT The RBS Europa Choir, directed by former King's Singer Nigel Perrin, are joined by talented string and keyboard players to celebrate the best of England's choral music, focusing particularly on the work of Henry Purcell and his fellow Chapel Royal musicians. The choir draws singers from choirs across the UK and Europe and is delighted to be making its first visit to Bath. The free programme includes music by Purcell, Gibbons, Byrd, Tallis and Blow. 2pm, St Michaels’ Without; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

2 September

LUKE DANIELS AND NANCY KERR The two British folk performers have teamed up for a limited number of shows this year, to perform their own and each other’s music. Since Daniels’ landmark solo statement What’s Here What’s Gone in 2014, he’s put down several more markers on the musical map. Nancy Kerr is one of the most celebrated folk musicians of her generation, with Folk Awards aplenty. 8pm, £12, Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

9 September

JIMMY ALDRIDGE AND SID GOLDSMITH As Jimmy and Sid launch their third album, Many A Thousand, they get ready to flex their vocal and instrumentation skills in Bath. Both have a love of traditional folksong and a mutual passion for the history carried in the music. Expect original songs from the album more than comfortably holding their own next to the traditional. 8pm, £10, Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

FAMILY

Until 24 August

THE FANTASTICAL MULTIMEDIA POP-UP This project presents three zones to experience artistic, scientific, fun, thought-provoking and interactive encounters. Step into the digital laboratory, find out how we’ll be using 3D printers in the future, become a character in a video game, and be part of a live gaming experiment. Andrew Brownsword Gallery, The Edge; www.edgearts.org

Until 27 August

SUMMER HOLIDAY FUN Discover a huge range of activities

ABOVE: Andrew Lansley's Night Navigation at David Simon Contemporary LEFT: Jesmonite pendant to be seen at Waller&Wood BELOW: The RBS Europa Choir will fill St Michael's Without with song

WHAT’S ON to entertain the kids during their summer break. Events include a Midsummer Mayhem Summer Family Fun Day, Nature Ninja Fridays and the annual Moat Boat Race. Various times and prices, The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens, Wells; www.bishopspalace.org.uk

has opened in the centre of the city, brought to us from the same team behind Bath On Ice. Relax with friends in hammocks and among palm trees, play volleyball, and enjoy tropical food and cocktails.

10am-10pm, Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonthebeach.co.uk

Until 3 September

Until 31 October

27 August

FUN DAY Bath Cats and Dogs Home's biggest annual event returns. Visitors (and their dogs) can enjoy agility demonstrations, games, stalls and tasty food, plus the much-anticipated dog show. New for this year is a kid’s zone and entertainment trailer. 11am, £2.50-£12; Bath Cats and Dogs Home; www.bcdh.org.uk

OTHER

Until 31 August

TORCHLIT SUMMER EVES The historic Roman Baths will be staying open until 10pm during the summer months. Expect the site to take on a magical atmosphere once the daylight fades and the flickering torches are lit around the Great Bath.

Various times and prices (free to Discovery Card Holders), The Roman Baths; www.romanbaths.co.uk

Until 10 September

MINERVA’S OWLS BATH SCULPTURE TRAIL A public sculpture trail of 100 owl sculptures and smaller owlets around the city. Each has a technological beacon, so you can find out about the owls as well as learn all about the artists and projects that have been responsible for decorating them.

Various locations around Bath; www.minervasowls.org

Until end of September

BATH ON THE BEACH A new Carribbean-style beach venue

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RIDE AND DINE Get out and about in wonderful Wiltshire countryside on horseback.

Work up an appetite with a ride before lunch, or work it off with one afterwards. The price includes a two-course lunch in The Brasserie at Lucknam and a one-hour ride, including equipment. TuesdaysThursdays, from £115, Lucknam Park; www.lucknampark.co.uk

31 August – 2 September

WALKING FESTIVAL Bradford on Avon’s seventh annual walking event has 14 great walks to choose from, ranging from an easy 1.5-mile bat discovery walk to a demanding 15-mile walk out into the Somerset countryside. Several guided walks are based around a geological, wildlife or foodie theme.

Various locations, Bradford on Avon; www.walkbradfordonavon.org

ABOVE: Bath on the Beach at Royal Victoria Park LEFT: Matt Inwood's Instagram workshop at The Chequers BELOW: Sea Pool by Malcolm Ashman in the Summer Show at David Simon Contemporary

2 September

NATIONAL VINTAGE GAMES An enriching sports experience for anyone over 50. Expect a relaxed, friendly environment, and the chance to get involved with athletics, swimming, tennis, or walking rugby/netball. Pilates, spin cycling and yoga classes will also run throughout the day. University of Bath Sport Training Village; www.nationalvintagegames.com

9 September

DRAGON BOAT RACE Back after a hugely successful event last year – get a team together, have fun and raise money by paddling for charity. With a whole day of racing to enjoy, head along to spectate and cheer on the competitors.

Bath Riverside; www.mountainway.org/bdbr2018

10 September

INSTAGRAM MASTERCLASS Another of Matt Inwood's popular workshops, suitable for anyone who wants to up their Insta game, particularly those working in the food, drink and hospitality industries. Includes a two-course lunch. 10am-2pm, £95, Chequers, Bath; www.mattinwood.com n

© MAT T INWOOD

PREDATORS Are you ready to come face to face with some of the biggest, fastest, stealthiest and strangest predators around? Stunning scenes, showcasing habitats and predators from across the globe, will transport you to faraway places and have you discovering just what it takes to be an top predator in the wild, with 14 animatronic carnivores also stalking into Longleat to make your day out with the kids extra-wild. Included with park entry ticket.

Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk

POTTERY WORKSHOP DATES with Jane Scott

nick cudworth gallery

Sat Aug 18th & Sun 19th – Nest of Plates Sat Aug 25th – Icon Wall Hanging Sun Sept 2nd – Ceramic Bunting Workshop cost £60, includes all materials and firing.

No experience required, start to finish projects.

August Stile Pastel on paper

AUGUST EXHIBITION

An exhibition of paintings and prints by Nick that reflect his interest in a variety of subjects including portraits, still life and landscape.

T: 07813 718853

W: janescottceramics.com

5 London Street (top end of Walcot Street), Bath BA1 5BU tel 01225 445221 / 07968 047639 gallery@nickcudworth.com www.nickcudworth.com

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

James Blunt has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and 12.8 million singles, and, when he’s not playing or selling records, he’s a comedic Twitter all-star. Ahead of his performance at Bath Racecourse, he talks to us about his latest album, working with Ed Sheeran, and THAT song...

Words by Lauren Scott

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

THE BIG INTERVIEW

W

hen James Hillier Blount (no that’s not a misprint, it’s the singer’s real name, pronounced in the same way) was little, he wanted to be one of two things: in the army, or a musician. As a singer-songwriter of five international bestselling albums and a former British Army officer, he’s now done both. And what does he want to be when he grows up? “Still alive, would be just great.”

In the less distant future, he’s excited about visiting our city (Bath Racecourse, to be precise) for a day of drinks, jollity and pop music. We catch up with James early one morning to find out more…

Hi James. Thanks for taking the time to talk to us...

Well, it’s a pleasure, and I’m looking forward to coming and seeing you guys in September.

Back to Bedlam is 14 years old now, and it won an NME award for worst album.

Apart from taking to Twitter, how do you deal with criticism?

Well, the NME has gone bust now, and I seem to still be going… I’m on my fifth world tour, which employs a load of people and seems to be going rather well. Whereas, Twitter doesn’t really appear to be anything.

No, Twitter is more of a hobby, and it’s very much still all about the music.

What would be a good theme song for your life?

Well I’ve got one big hit… [he’s talking about You’re Beautiful, of course] so that would probably be the one.

Let’s move on to the new album, which you toured last year. For anyone who hasn’t listened to The Afterlove, could you talk us through it?

Yeah. It’s [insert word we can’t print] great. You should definitely get it, it’s the best thing you’ll get this year. I think it’ll surprise people, as it isn’t just one guy on a guitar, singing sad songs.

You collaborated with a few famous names, too, didn’t you?

I worked with a dream team of people to make it, some famous ones like Ed Sheeran and Ryan Tedder of One Republic, but also some phenomenal musicians who I was recording with. Lots happened to me during the time

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

“My band almost makes me look like a rock star, but not quite…”

QUICK-FIRE ROUND Glass half-empty or half-full?

I normally keep mine pretty topped up.

What’s one of the most outrageous rumours you’ve heard about yourself lately?

That I’m wearing women’s underwear. That would be true.

If you were trapped in a TV show for a month, what would it be?

I haven’t ever watched it, but Love Island could be pretty fun.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

DAY AT THE RACES James is coming to Bath Racecourse for a not-to-be-missed event. Pop along for a day at the races, before dancing into the evening with James in concert for an action-packed day out. He’ll be playing after the racing on 15 September.

For more: www.vmstickets.co.uk

I wrote it – some inspiring, some tragic. And all of that is wrapped up in a very special record.

Wow. So how did those kinds of collaborations come about?

Well, we passed by, and we gave each other a call and thought we should work together.

Ryan was passing through London, and said, “James, just come and meet me in my hotel room and let’s make a noise until the neighbours complain.”

And did they complain?

Absolutely.

What’s your favourite track on the album?

I love the song California, because it sounds cool… and I’ve always wanted to be cool.

There’s a song called Don’t Give Me Those Eyes, which is very sad.

You studied at the University of Bristol.

Does this mean you know Bath well?

Yes, pretty well. I did aerospace manufacturing engineering at Bristol (which I couldn’t spell) and this took me to the area for a few years. I had mates in Bath, so I was there a fair bit. I still have friends that live just outside. It’s just a beautiful place, isn’t it?

It is. Are you looking forward to playing at Bath Racecourse?

You know what? I absolutely love the Racecourse gigs. I haven’t played at Bath before, but I’ve been in a bunch of others, at Newmarket, Epsom and Doncaster. It’s such a great day, with people watching the racing, having a drink or two and throwing on a concert at the end. It’s such a nice way to end what is a great day out.

So what can your fans expect on the day?

When you buy a ticket to see someone, you don’t just want to hear their new album. It’ll be a mix of everything. While I want to bring some elements from the Afterlove tour, I know that people want to hear You’re Beautiful, Goodbye Lover, 1973 and everything else that they might have heard on the radio.

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

And what would you like the good people of Bath to bring?

“I had mates in Bath, so I was there a fair bit”

Well, I expect they’ll go mental. I get out there with a band and there are five of us on stage. This often surprises people, as they expect a downtempto show, but it’s not. My band almost makes me look like a rock star, but not quite. We have a blast on stage, and we know what we’re doing by now. I just expect people to join in.

Will you have any free time while you’re here?

I’m only going to be down for the day, unfortunately, so I might put a little bet on and enjoy a day out at the races.

And when will you be back to Bath?

I’m just not sure… probably the next time you invite me.

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NIC BOTTOMLEY BOOKS

We are family A trio of very different books – each with family turmoil, mystery or disconnect at its heart – that will keep you both gripped and glad to be around your own folk

“Unorthodox family set-ups can be a source of humour”

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hat could be more reassuring than a clutch of books by your side, featuring families that are less functional than your own?

Here are three reads that will make you feel that your own family is perfectly normal.

First up is one of the baker’s dozen of books that make up the 2018 Man Booker Prize longlist. Everything Under, by Daisy Johnson (Jonathan Cape, £14.99), is a novel that boldly reworks the Oedipus myth in a Southern England canal-side setting. It’s a story that overflows with fluidity, not just in the evocation of the watery landscape of the canal but also in terms of gender and time.

We meet the lead character, Gretel, as a teenager, living on a boat with her volatile mother and hanging out with their new friend, Marcus (previously known as Margot).

This timeline interchanges with two others.

In one, Gretel desperately seeks her mother – resorting even to phone calls to local morgues – who she has not seen for 16 years.

In the other, Gretel and her mother have been reunited, but, because her mother has descended into dementia, Gretel is unable to piece together why she left all those years ago and what happened in the years between.

Johnson’s use of language is beguiling throughout, so that it seems no coincidence that the adult Gretel works as a lexicographer.

She paints a vivid picture of a canal community of offbeat individuals who are far from welcoming of outsiders and who live in fear of a creature known as the Bonak, or canal thief.

As the narrative hops between timeframes, the piecing together of childhood memories becomes a dominant theme and adds to the novel’s prevailing air of mystery. In particular, Gretel struggles as an adult to understand the truth surrounding the Bonak. This creature that had the canal folk shifting their mooring points as it closed in during her childhood, now seems less plausible, less threatening and more mythic through an adult lens.

Manhattan Beach, by Jennifer Egan (Little Brown, £8.99), also features a protagonist seeking a missing parent.

In 1940s Brooklyn, Anna is working in the almost entirely male environment of the Brooklyn Naval Yard, constructing ships for war. Ambitious and determined, Anna grabs every opportunity to prove herself, even donning the heavy diving suits previously only worn by her male colleagues and required to work on the boats below the waterline.

One night, though, in a nightclub in the city, Anna encounters club owner Dexter Styles, the man who might hold the key to her father’s sudden disappearance many years earlier. Anna had first seen Dexter when, aged just 12, she was invited by her father to a tense meeting with him. It was shortly after that meeting that her father had gone missing.

As Anna now embarks on a relationship with the much older Dexter (who doesn’t recognise her), she does so with the ulterior motive of trying to ascertain what became of her father. The plot builds in pace as Anna slowly gets glimpses into the sinister side of New York life in which her dad and Dexter had been involved.

This is a historical novel with a remarkable sense of time and place as it transports the reader to the grit and turmoil of New York’s early 20th-century waterside districts, rather than its more frequently described glamorous jazz-age heart.

Finally, proof that unorthodox family set-ups can be a source of humour as well as drama. Poet Patricia Lockwood’s Priestdaddy (Penguin, £9.99) is a hilarious memoir of her childhood with her rather rock-and-roll Catholic priest father, who only turned to the faith after watching The Exorcist a staggering 72 times while on board a Cold War submarine.

Returning to her childhood home following a sudden change in personal circumstance, Lockwood reconnects with the rectory life of her youth and tries to reconcile her liberal feminist sensibilities and her warmth for her family with the sometimes curious, sometimes dark and unpalatable side of Midwest Catholic life. The end result is as entertaining and unpredictable as the book’s baffling but strangely alluring front cover.

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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ARTS FROM LEFT: Cold War is an unapologetic portrayal of love in difficult times; childhood favourite Christopher Robin; Emma Thompson in The Children Act

Get the picture?

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The Little’s flick-picks this month all mingle hardship with heart…

e have some incredible films that are sure to tug on your heartstrings.

First up, we have the childhood favourite, Christopher Robin.

This nostalgia-filled film will leave everyone feeling warm inside. Following the life of grown-up Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor), we see that even as an adult, sometimes you still need some help from your friends. Having survived World War II, Christopher works for a luggage company, but thanks to his overbearing boss (Mark Gatiss), he has to work horrendous hours and possibly having to cut people’s jobs to make ends meet.

Struggling to cope with work, Christopher becomes increasingly stressed, only to then see his childhood friend – Winnie the Pooh (Jim Cummings) – appear.

Prone to stating profound phrases, Pooh begins to help Christopher, reintroducing him to the old gang again and helping him cope with his situation. Christopher starts to feel more like himself as he spends more time with Pooh and friends. This genuinely sweet film is a crowd-pleaser, and is a fleeting reminder that simple pleasures are important in difficult times in our lives.

We also have new legal drama The Children Act. It stars Emma Thompson as Fiona Maye – a brilliant and well-respected judge who is ruling in a uniquely difficult case concerning an incredibly ill teenage boy, as well as dealing with her own marital crisis.

Fiona is asked to rule on the case of Adam (Fionn Whitehead), a 17-year-old with cancer.

His family are Jehovah’s Witnesses and will not permit a blood transfusion that could save his life, due to their beliefs. But because Adam is a legal minor, Fiona can make decisions in his best interests, which would go against his parents’ beliefs, which he also seems to follow.

Fiona is used to dealing with difficult cases with professionalism, but it starts to take a toll on her marriage.

She is then left having to deal with this crushing ethical dilemma, while also trying to maintain her private life. The Children Act is a wonderful drama focusing on intimacy, love and moral responsibilities, with the added bonus of Emma T’s flawless performance.

Next up, we have the exquisitely beautiful love story Cold War, from Oscar-winning writer/director Pawel Pawlikowski. Winner of best director at the Cannes Film festival, Cold War is a gorgeous, unapologetic portrayal of love in difficult times. Set in Poland in the late

“Simple pleasures are important in difficult times”

1940s, this black-and-white film highlights the intimate grimness of the era, but also leaves you feeling like you’re in a dreamlike state.

As the Cold War’s snow chill begins, a musician and a broadcaster are touring remote villages with their recording equipment, looking to recruit young people for an authentic traditional Polish song and dance.

The people doing the choosing are darkly handsome pianist Wiktor (Tomasz Kot) and producer Irena (Agata Kulesza) who seem to have a romantic past together. However, Wiktor’s eye is caught by the youthful Zula (Joanna Kulig) – though she is not the pure Polish type they were looking for.

Zula performs a non-Polish folk song (actually a plagiarised song from a Russian movie), but this doesn’t pose a problem as she has the cherubic ‘Sovietised look’ they were after. Wiktor fantasises about Zula as he learns about her time in prison for attacking her abusive father.

Soon, Wiktor and Zula’s affair begins, with their passion only increasing as Zula becomes more famous; but crisis occurs when they’re asked to perform in East Berlin.

Their musical ensemble performances are outstanding, staggeringly beautiful pieces, choreographed in a magical way. Throughout the film, the music and dance are mesmeric, their beauty starkly contrasting the undertone of the era. It’s an elegant love story that isn’t afraid to highlight the the hardships of life.

Sophie-Claire McLeod is duty and marketing manager at The Little Theatre, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; 01225 466822; www.picturehouses.co.uk

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THE SCALLOP SHELL Unfussy plates of the freshest seafood are on the menu at this beachside-chic location, and they taste even better when enjoyed on the new al fresco terrace on a warm summer’s eve

By Lisa Evans. Photos by Paolo Ferla

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ith the fresh breeze in our faces, the smell of fish and chips in the air, and the squawks of seagulls nearby, we could easily pretend we were beside the seaside today. Only, we’re not; we’re in the city, on The Scallop Shell’s new open-air terrace, overlooking Bath rooftops.

The fish and chip restaurant and seafood grill – which one of the most gifted (and volatile) chefs of his day Marco Pierre White said in our recent interview was his favourite foodie joint in all of Somerset, that even Michelin-starred restaurants couldn’t beat – officially opened its new terrace and bar in June.

If you’re used to chippies with squeezy ketchup bottles and wipe-down plastic tables, The Scallop Shell will surprise you. Out on the secluded, first-floor terrace,

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

wooden tables and chairs sit beneath a huge fisherman’s net tangled with fairy lights, a ship’s steering wheel is mounted on the wall, and, inside – where, in the buzzy open kitchen, chefs seem to be engaged in a sizzling dance-off – there’s a sea-battered industrial style and an ice-filled roll-top bath tub piled high with the catch of the day from the early morning coastal markets.

On the clean, concise menu, you’ll find everything from simply prepared grilled fish fillets and battered favourites, to classic fishcakes, garlic-buttered scallops, marinated anchovies, and mussels with aioli.

We skip the starters and dive straight into the main event. Hubby goes for grilled, crispy-skinned, flakycentered gilthead sea bream (head and tail intact), the colour of tarnished bronze. It’s delicately flavoured by the rosemary sprigs stuffed into its scored, tender flesh, which falls away from the bone easily but is still firm to

RESTAURANT

the chew, its oils gently running.

And my choice – because it’s the only veggie option, not that I’m complaining; I do realise I’m in a seafood restaurant – is the spiced chickpea fritters. I don’t tend to enjoy pulses which have been shaped into a burger patty – they’re usually the bland, dry, boring cloud looming over any plant-based menu section – but these are remarkably light and moist flavour bombs, and, when dipped in the sweet chilli sauce that accompanies them, they sing with sweetness and punch.

Our choices are both obviously accompanied by chips, proper chippie chips – textured and amber on the outside, and delicately soft on the inside. They are not too fat, not too thin, but are the ‘just right’ Goldilocks of chips, and are the ideal rock salt-sprinkled dippers for sides of mushy peas and heat-spiked curry sauce. I very much like dippy chips, or, if I’m honest, almost all beige-coloured, carb-heavy comfort food. They should always be served in hefty portions, and always consumed without regret.

Instead of a pudding menu, there is simply a ‘dessert of the day’, which, on our night of choosing, is a tonguetingling Eton mess served in a retro sundae glass.

The restaurant was awarded its first AA Rosette for culinary excellence earlier this year thanks to owner Garry Rosser – who used to work with Mitch Tonks at the acclaimed Fishworks back in the day – and his hard-working team. The no-frills experience they offer here is all about the quality and freshness of the food.

It’s ordinary fare on the face of it, but the impeccably sourced ingredients and the look of the space lifts the whole affair and delivers dishes you just can’t forget. n

“Comfort food should always be served in hefty portions, and always consumed without regret” DINING DETAILS The Scallop Shell, 22 Monmouth Place, Bath, BA1 2AY; 01225 420928; www.thescallopshell.co.uk In a nutshell No-fuss fish and chip restaurant and seafood grill serving high-quality produce We ate Whole gilthead sea bream, chickpea fritters, chips, mushy peas, curry sauce, and Eton mess Vegetarian options Only one main dish offered (and no starters) Prices Starters and sharers £5.95 – £20; mains £12.95 – £15.95; dessert £5.95 Drinks An impressive and extended drinks menu since the new bar opened, including a weekly-changing cocktail, and wines chosen to complement the dishes Service/ atmosphere Unpretentious, buzzy and friendly, with a chip-shop comfort factor

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TRY FIVE 2

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SMALL PLATES Tasty tapas and mouth-watering morsels from these fine local eateries

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PINTXO This authentic, cosy, Basque-style tapas and sherry bar in Bath’s theatre district has really taken the city by storm. Everything on the menu is tailor-made for laid-back grazing, with an array of colourful nibbles and small plates (both hot and cold) to indulge in. You can’t go wrong with their lamb skewers, grilled in Basque spices, or if you’re feeling slightly more adventurous, the spider crab and saffron croquettes; and they do the best patatas bravas around. There’s a dedicated sherry menu, too.

Best of all, they don’t take reservations, so you can just rock up and tuck in. www.pintxobath.co.uk

(try the slow-cooked pigs’ cheeks with crusty breadcrumbs, bacon salt and chilli alioli), fish, vegetarian (crispy aubergine fritters with honey – to die for) and vegan, they also do a good paella and even de rigueur aged Galician beef steaks, cut from mature cows for a better flavour – mouth-puckeringly delicious it is, too.

Well, when in Spain… www.pablostapas.com

SAME SAME BUT DIFFERENT Family-run Same Same is a local institution, on Bartlett Street. Café by day, it becomes a tapas bar by night, with candles, music and a leisurely vibe. Dishes change regularly, and there’s always so much gorgeous stuff to pick at – we love their harissa chicken with feta potatoes, Cornish sole goujons with apple, fennel and aioli, and potted mackerel with pear and ginger. www.same-same.co.uk

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PABLO’S BISTRO “A taste of Spain in Bradford on Avon,” they say, and this little tapas joint in the middle of town certainly offers that, with bells on. As well as tapas of every variety, including meat

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CORKAGE Owned by award-winning chef Richard Knighting and wine enthusiast Marty Grant, this small plates eatery, wine bar and bottle shop is a “coming together of two people passionate about wine, food and hospitality,” and that certainly shines through. With branches on Walcot Street and Chapel Row, both venues are convivial, intimate spaces, dishing up an array of gorgeous small plates, with recommended wine to match. The blackboard menus, which change regularly, only hint at the food involved (‘caponata’, ‘pork’, ‘crab toast’ – you get the picture), but just go with it; their big, punchy flavours and exciting combos rarely fail to hit the spot. www.corkagebath.com

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OLÉ TAPAS Simple ingredients, well-prepared, served up by happy Spaniards – that’s the ethos of Olé’s two tapas restaurants; the original (smaller) venue is situated on John Street,

above Paxton & Whitfield, while the larger site, which opened in February, is on Sawclose.

Whichever you choose, be prepared for a feast.

The food, based on traditional Spanish fare, is incredibly moreish – you go in for a couple of drinks and a nibble or two, but invariably end up pigging out. With goodies such as 12-hour, slow-roast Iberian pork belly, plus all manner of incredible cured meats and cheeses, it’d be rude not to, right? n www.oletapas.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK NEWS

SIMPLY GRAPE! The Bunch of Grapes in Bradford on Avon has recently been serving up dishes of a more British style, thanks to the new ownership of husband and wife team, Tony Casey and Maylee Speller.

“Tony and I took over The Bunch of Grapes last month, and have changed both the Frenchinspired menu and opening times. We’re serving lunch and dinner Tuesday to Saturday, and Sunday lunch (think traditional roast) and drinks from 12-6pm.”

Head chef Tony has worked his way around the area’s top eateries (including Chequers in Bath), but, now, he and his wife are very excited to be able to run their own premises. “We want to offer great food in a relaxed friendly environment, with great wines and cocktails alongside,” says Maylee. “We currently have a bar menu with classics such as fish and chips, burgers and steaks, whereas the à la carte menu is based around seasonal, local produce.”

There’s also a tasting menu, for which you’ll need to book in advance.

For more: www.thebunchofgrapes.com

The BIB Wine Company: fine wine, in a box

BOXING CLEVER If you thought Bag-in-Box wine was reserved for mass-produced ranges, The BIB Wine Company is on hand to change that. Their joyful 2.25-litre boxes of wine mean you can drink just as much or as little as you like… and then go back in a few days’ time for more.

Although The BIB Wine Company is currently an online shop, they already have a strong base in Bath, and their co-founder, Rebecca Roberts, is on the lookout for a physical site in Bath within the next year. “All our wines are from small and independent producers,” she says. “With our head of wine, Justin Howard-Sneyd, leading the efforts, we have created a superb and varied range (there are 12 in total) of low-intervention and sustainable wines, all notable for their character and quality and packaged in environmentally-friendly and convenient boxes.”

If you can resist them for long enough, open boxes of BIB wines can easily last over a month – handy for your lifestyle and your wallet. The boxes are efficient to transport and completely recyclable, too. Red, white or rosé – it’s all green.

For more: www.bibwine.co.uk

WELCOME HOME

Tantalising tomatoes at The Bunch of Grapes

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

Taste of Bath is one of the city’s biggest champions of artisan food and drink, supporting the small local producers that make Bath such a delicious place in which to live. Now they’re expanding their partnership with some of Bath’s biggest property companies, including Curo, Savills and Bath Building Society, to supply hampers for new homeowners, both locally and across the country.

Curo is the latest house-builder to work with Taste of Bath, who will be providing gift boxes full of treats to form part of the welcome pack for new home-owners. Not only does the service cement relationships with a lovely personal touch, but it also gives big local businesses the chance to support smaller ones. “It’s an excellent way to showcase the amazing variety of produce that Bath has to offer, and a particularly brilliant way of welcoming those moving into the city for the first time,” says Carly Foster from Savills Bath, which has been gifting Taste of Bath hampers to its new homeowners since 2017.

For more: www.taste-of.co.uk

Treats for new home-owners

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS 2018 Christmas at Ston Easton Park is a feast for all the senses. Whether you are in need of a quiet, relaxing break, seeking a venue to entertain friends and colleagues or in search of a decadent treat, our gift to you is the very finest cuisine along with attentive yet unobtrusive service, wrapped up in a stunning 18th century Palladian mansion.

Ston Easton Park could have been purpose built for Christmas. The beautifully proportioned rooms, open log fires and spectacular festive decorations and Christmas trees come together to create the perfect atmosphere for a traditional Christmas house party. Join us for a two or three day festive break, we’ll take all the strain out of the arrangements and provide you with the relaxing escape you deserve.

VOUCHERS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH OUR WEBSITE OR DIRECTLY. AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS GIFT!

CHRISTMAS LUNCHES

BLACK TIE SHARED CHRISTMAS PARTY

For parties of 9 people or more we will be serving our 3 Course festive Lunch menu starting from £32.00 or Dinner from £37.50 per person in the Sorrel Restaurant.

From 1st to 23rd December

Are you planning the perfect way to celebrate Christmas with your family, friends or work colleagues?

Perfect for small office parties.

Dates available £70.00 per person

Exclusive use Christmas Party dates also available

Ston Easton, Nr Bath, Somerset BA3 4DF To book, call 01761 241631 or email reception@stoneaston.co.uk

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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.

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SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

£3,180, from Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath; www.mallory-jewellers.com

ALL EARS

Featuring fabulous tangerine-orange mandarin garnets, as well as diamonds and pearls, these ‘Bron’ earrings in 18-carat rose gold are bold yet sophisticated sparklers which will dangle joyously from your lobes and add a little oomph to your look. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 75

ROBERTS UNO, £159.99 This retro, fiftiesstyle radio is the ideal bedside companion, or, as it’s portable, could be taken outside to accompany your picnic or garden party From Moss of Bath, 45 St James’ Parade, Bath; www.mossofbath.co.uk

TEAL OF APPROVAL

With its simultaneous warmth and coolness, apparently teal is one of the world’s favourite colours. Here’s our pick of invitingly hued items to treat yourself to…

HAND-PAINTED LANTERN, £69 Each lampshade Bathborn artist Hollie Middleton makes starts as a unique piece of printed linen mix fabric. She then uses a screen printing technique to layer the design on top From Kurtztextiles, near Bath; www.kurtztextiles.etsy.com

GRAPHICO ATOMIC EARRINGS, £80 These resin and silver accessories are designed and made in Bath by Su Trindle, who sells her creations in the city at Waller & Wood From Quercus Silver, based at Bath Artists’ Studios, Comfortable Place, Bath; www.quercussilver.co.uk

MOROCCANOIL TRAVEL KIT, £26.85 A goody bag of oil-infused hair care which boosts shine, detangles, and speeds up drying time From Nick Brain Hairdressing, 2a and 15 York Street, Bath; www.nickbrainhairdressing.com

BOWL CLUSTER, £140 This set of handmade, covetable ceramics by Jill Shaddock blurs the boundaries between the usable and the purely decorative From The Holburne Museum, Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB; www.holburne.org

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VELVET CUSHION, £175 House of Hackney’s new-season collections – including this fabulous Saber cushion – are inspired by traditional Tibetan tiger illustrations From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

ED’S CHOICE ZION URNS, £64 Inspired by traditional Arabic urns, these distressed-look vessels appear to be treasures brought back from far-flung adventures From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

CLARINS PORE CONTROL, £45 This formula incorporates natural ingredients which promote smooth, fresh, flawless skin while boosting radiance and glow From FrontlineStyle, 4-5 Monmouth Street, Bath; www.frontlinestyle.co.uk

FLORRY VASES, £43/£68 Combining curvaceous form with balanced beauty, these vases have a timeless appeal that will enhance both contemporary and classic interiors From Woodhouse & Law, 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

BUTTERFLY ARTWORK, £60 We’re mesmerised by local designer Planty Kate’s giclée butterfly triptych From Leak, 3 Larkhall Square, Bath; find them on Facebook

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77

MAN’S BEST TREND It’s almost time to tearfully pack away the swim shorts and to mourn your sudden lack of BBQ commitments. Like it or not, summer will come to an end shortly, but at least you’ll have an autumn wardrobe to look forward to. Here’s our pick of transitional gems for gents…

By Lisa Evans

O

ur usual fashion features tend to revolve around women, so we’ve decided to give the gents a turn in this issue. To help you get ahead of the curve (and the cold – yep, it’s coming), here’s our pick of summerinto-autumn buys.

The nineties look – think the Gallagher brothers at Glastonbury – is back, with oversized fugly sneakers, bucket hats and waterproof cagoules; if you’re looing for a rainy-day lightweight jacket, we recommend the Albam parka from Maze (see opposite page).

Butter-soft leather is making a dramatic, full-length appearance, too; but if you’re not a fan of The Matrix vibe, try a Prada leather holdall from Grace & Ted (see opposite) as a subtle nod to the trend. And nature’s rich, warm earthy tones – especially tree bark-hued browns – are the colours of the season; sandy beige, stone grey, and moss green are also in the mix.

Also, the more checks, the better – especially if they’re clashing – and the Western look is gathering pace, so don’t pack away your spurs just yet.

Jumpers are the most evocative pieces of autumn kit, so you might want to treat yourself to a luxe knit (like this roll neck from Cos, right), and make sure your quilted jackets have the requisite amount of squishiness for the season, too.

So don’t be sad about the colder days; at least the fashion will still be hot…

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

Roll neck, £115, trousers, £59; From Cos, 24-26 Union Street, Bath; www.cosstores.com

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SHOPPING LIST 1. Sport coat, £179, from Orvis, 1 Pulteney Bridge, Bath; www.stores.orvis.co.uk 2. Soma Collection trousers, £89, from Cos, 24-26 Union Street, Bath; www.cosstores.com 3. Lee t-shirt, £40, from Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk 4. Montblanc cufflinks, £290, from Mallory, 1-5 Bridge Street, Bath; www.mallory-jewellers.com 5. Etina Barcelona Hampstead sunglasses, £219, from Brad Abrahams Optometry, 2 Upper Borough Walls, Bath; www.bradabrahams.uk.com 6. El Bolson bag, £129, from AWAX, based near Larkhall, Bath; www.awaxuk.com 7. 1312 frames, £285, from Cutler and Gross, 9 Bridge Street, Bath; www.cutlerandgross.com 8. Albam fishtail parka, £299, from Maze, 19 Green Street, Bath; www.mazeclothing.co.uk 9. Pimlico suede shoes, £200, from Loake Bath, 15 Green Street, Bath; www.loake.co.uk 10. Prada leather holdall, £750, From Grace & Ted, 10 Kingsmead Square, Bath; www.graceandted.co.uk

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

PRE LOVED MENSWEAR NEARLY NEW FASHION FOR DISCERNING MEN WITH GOOD TASTE

Affordable Bespoke tailoring for men and women in Bath, suited to your lifestyle, personality and budget. We specialise in suits, jackets, trousers, chinos, shirts, tweeds, coats and casual wear for both men and women.

Choose from a wide choice of fabrics, linings and finishing touches.

CHAPS – please send us your old preloved clothing and accessories: we will sell them on a 50/50 basis

37 Silver St, Bradford on Avon

T: 01225 684688

Private one-to-one measuring and styling service by appointment only.

Contact Mike Lane: 0800 011 2450 | mike@suitthecity.com www.suitthecity.com 1 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HA

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the Barber

Trust Bath’s top hair craftsmen to treat you and your tresses to a trendy chop SALVATORE GRECO

NICK STONE

TRIMMERS

BA1 HAIR

15 Barton Street, Bath; 01225 421961

01225 420611; www.ba1hair.co.uk Where did you learn your trade?

At the age of ten I started going to work with my dad at his barber shop in Bristol, where I learned the art of traditional barbering with cut throat razors and scissors.

I completed my apprenticeship with another local Italian barber. My ambition was to eventually have my own family run salon with my dad and brother, as an apprentice. 25 years later, I take great pride in my work and have many loyal customers.

Why are your customers loyal to you?

The years of knowledge and passion for what I do is what makes me the barber I am today. Barbering is a craft and comes from years of learning, so I feel I can offer my clients the best haircut.

What sets you apart from other barbers?

From start to finish it should be an experience, and I think we do that best at BA1 hair. Start with a hair wash and head massage, then sit down with a tea, coffee or even beer. When it comes to cutting, I’m all about quality over quantity. That’s key when you are cutting gents hair. A rushed haircut is a bad haircut, and I put 100 per cent effort into each haircut I do.

Salvatore Greco

What do you most enjoy about your job?

I love the satisfaction of giving someone a really good haircut and them walking away with a fresh new look, feeling happy about their hair and the experience they had. I like getting to know all my clients and have a good laugh with them, too.

What’s the one piece of kit you couldn’t work without?

I use all my modern day tools to create my signature haircuts, but the one piece of equipment I cannot work without is my cut throat razor. Coming from a traditional way of learning, I still believe it truly finishes off any hairstyle.

What are the current trends?

I would definitely say that long mens haircuts are coming back into fashion, especially the mod era haircuts. Longer sides and box fringes have made a strong comeback. But at the same time, the classics, like short back and sides with length on top are always popular.

Nick Stone

ALEX MORRIS

MASTER STYLIST, FRONTLINESTYLE

JAK ROOME

01225 478478 www.frontlinestyle.co.uk

ROBERT JOHN HAIRDRESSING 01275 842177; www.robertjohnhair.co.uk

Why should a client come to you?

Hair is my passion, I have over 20 years in the industry and I’ve been trained by the very best names in the business – there is not much I haven’t seen or done to a head of hair! I love being creative and can turn my hand from wedding hair through to complete restyles. I am partial to colour correction too – I love a challenge!

What do you love about being a hairdresser?

Creating a whole new look and helping my clients to maintain it at home by showing them tips and techniques. Both my male and female clients love my calm, unrushed approach. I just enjoy making my clients feel so much more confident and relaxed at the end of the appointment than when they first came in. I also make a great cappuccino!

What is the most important part of the service you give?

A consultation is the most crucial part of your service, listening and understanding the client’s expectations and building an individual picture between you and the client using tools available such as iPads, Pinterest and Instagram.

Do you prefer trend-led or classic styles?

Classic cutting is the foundation of all haircuts, but using trend-led, modern techniques to give the client a more bespoke style.

Alex Morris

Who inspires you?

The team around me inspire me. We are all passionate about our industry and strive to work together to be the best.

What is the most important part of the service?

To take time to listen, so I know exactly what style my client is looking to achieve and what fits with their lifestyle. I take time to analyse the hair type and condition and also talk through which cut would suit their face shape and hair type.

What is the best part of your job?

Working in an environment that has the ability to make your clients look and feel great about themselves.

Jak Roome

What is your top tip to share with clients?

Show your personality through your hair.

Be individual! www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81

BUSINESSINSIDER B AT H G E T S S E R I O U S

Leaf it out: Homewood Park Hotel in Freshford has just been acquired by Bath hotel group The Kaleidoscope Collection

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOMEWOOD

After recently changing hands, Homewood Park Hotel in Freshford is set for an exciting new chapter

T

he region’s luxury hotel scene continues to develop apace with the news that city-based hotel group, The Kaleidoscope Collection – currently made up of No.15 Great Pulteney and The County Hotel

– has recently expanded further with the acquisition of Homewood Park in Freshford, a picturesque 21-bedroom, wisteria-clad hotel and spa on Abbey Lane with enviable views over Limpley Stoke Valley.

Kaleidoscope owners Ian and

Christa Taylor – both seasoned hoteliers, of course – have grand plans to transform Homewood into a laid-back country hideaway, where weary city dwellers and visitors alike can come and experience the good life.

Outside spaces will feature homegrown garden produce and shepherd’s huts in the woodlands, while onsite artisans will produce everything from ceramics to homeware for guests to purchase and take home. The hotel promises to bring together all the understated appeal of a private country home with the service, charm and individuality Kaleidoscope has become well known for.

Overseeing the kitchen team is Kaleidoscope’s executive chef, Marc Hardiman, who began his formal training at Bath College. He joins the group from a similar role at Great Fosters country house hotel in Egham, Surrey, which, under his watch, won three AA rosettes and a Michelin star.

The new restaurant’s dishes will showcase the best of local and homegrown produce, while nature and Homewood’s leafy surrounds will inspire the hotel’s afternoon tea. They’re even thinking ahead to Christmas already, which they say will be a “big family occasion centred around sharing feasts and spending time with loved ones.”

Bedrooms, public spaces, the restaurant and spa will all be refreshed, while the next phase of the project will see collaborations with local businesses and creative talent to give Homewood a completely new identity.

As with every Kaleidoscope

Quote of the issue

“THIS COULD BE THE MOST INCREDIBLE, REWARDING AND REAL EXPERIENCE YOU’LL EVER HAVE”

Wow, some claim – but who said it?

Find out on page 90…

The Big Number

£50M

That’s how much the Apex City of Bath Hotel is worth. Turn to page 89 to hear about their successful first year in the city…

property, statement pieces of art and one-of-a-kind touches will be at the heart of this latest transformation, which is expected to take two years to complete.

“We’re delighted that Homewood continues the next phase of growth for the Kaleidoscope Collection,” says Ian Taylor.

“Adding a relaxed country house hotel to the group has been part of our long-term plan for some time now, and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming Freshford locals and visitors alike in the early stages of this exciting new chapter.”

For more: www.homewoodpark.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BUSINESS INSIDER

ONE TO WATCH

Michael Allen, co-founder and director of successful short-let specialist property management company, BnBbuddy, reveals the secrets behind the company’s growth

Michael Allen: “Renting out a holiday home successfully is a fine art”

What does BnBbuddy do?

We’re a premium property management company specialising in short lets and holiday lets. We provide a complete service, gaining five-star reviews for our clients by marketing their properties, 24/7 guest communication and a professional high-standard cleaning service. All this allows landlords to take a hands-off approach, safe in the knowledge that BnBbuddy is taking care of their properties and their guests.

How did the idea for BnBbuddy come about?

Myself and [fellow co-founder] Andrew Paterson are lifetime friends,

both with a background in property.

Due to unforeseen life events, we both ended up moving to Edinburgh, where we started BnBbuddy in 2015.

In the beginning, we did everything – taking on new properties and cleaning the apartments, walking the streets of Edinburgh with IKEA bags on our shoulders. We’ve worked very hard to get where we are. Now Scotland’s only professional co-hosts, hand-picked by Airbnb, we have continued to grow and strengthen our business. We have never taken out loans or investment – our growth has been entirely organic.

What attracted you to Bath?

Having succeeded in Scotland,

we decided to expand our services nationwide. I’m Bristol born and bred and my family has roots in and around Bath, so naturally those two cities were our first choice. We also have a presence in London.

What are the main benefits to landlords of letting their properties short-term?

Short lets open up a potentially lucrative market as they can command at least 30 per cent higher rates than long-term rentals. They also offer greater flexibility to extend tenancy contracts weekly or monthly at the landlord’s discretion and you can still use your property for family and friends when required. If you are an owner/occupier you can monetise your home and unlock extra cash while you’re away travelling or for business. And if your property is professionally managed, it will be well looked after – all properties in our portfolio are in the same or better state than when we first took them on.

they stay, while saving money by not using a corporate four-star hotel.

Can anyone list their property on short-let basis?

With leasehold properties, the building’s freeholder may seek to restrict short lets, either through covenants in the lease, or by demanding additional admin fees and a fee per sub-let. Check your agreement before listing a property.

Is there anything else a landlord should consider before going short let?

Landlords need to cover costs in a short let that would otherwise be paid by a long-term tenant – this includes utility bills, internet, TV licence and council tax. Properties also need to be fully furnished and well-equipped (crockery, cutlery, bed linen etc), which means additional expense.

What makes a short-let investment a success?

If you are a professional landlord, you are probably more motivated by the financial return that short-term letting offers. Assuming occupancy and rental yield are your main goals, then marketing your listing across multiple channels and platforms is always better. More eyeballs on your property leads to more enquiries, which leads to more bookings and higher occupancy.

So why should a landlord come to you?

Renting out a holiday home successfully is a fine art. Getting bookings, maintaining guest relationships, organising turnover and dealing with crisis is something you will need to do on a day-to-day basis.

Short-let tenants view a property as an alternative to a hotel and will expect problems to be fixed immediately.

Landlords can get twice the income from short-term rental, but most don’t have the time or the resources. We enable them to do so.

What are the main channels for winning occupancy?

Airbnb has historically attracted younger guests – though this is now changing as confidence in the app builds and the user base expands.

Demand is perennially high if you have a good quality property in a sought-after location. Two years ago, Airbnb also launched their business travel offering. Now they are capturing a growing number of business travellers who want the flexibility of being able to choose exactly where

Finally, what advice would you give to potential short-let property investors?

Location is everything and local knowledge is key, so do your research on where and what to buy. Invest in good quality, durable furniture, as the longer it lasts, the less you’ll have to spend on replacements. Try to inject some personality into your property and make it stand out – quirky sells well. And when you’re ready, give us a call for a free appraisal. www.bnbbuddy.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 117

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

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH RUGBY NEWS

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY

Bringing you the latest from Bath Rugby headquarters

From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 30 AUGUST FINANCE ESSENTIALS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS If you find business finance and forecasting daunting, or want to understand what your bookkeeper or accountant is telling you, this free workshop is for you. It includes a mix of teaching and working on your own business, assisted by advisers.

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

Bath Rugby Foundation is striving to give the city’s children a positive, healthy future

Bath Rugby Foundation is the charitable arm of the club, and community projects including health and education are at its core. The Foundation has just launched a five-week programme, and its premise is simple: to ensure that all families in Bath can eat healthy meals and live active lifestyles.

Poor diet and physical inactivity is a national epidemic, but those living in areas of deprivation in B&NES are twice as likely to be obese than their more affluent neighbouring areas. The Foundation’s new initiative, called Eat Active, involves free sport and healthy eating sessions, as well as providing stable, healthy meals for children living in the city’s deprived areas.

During the sessions, the Foundation will also be dishing out support and life skills to the wider family units, so that they can learn what makes up a balanced diet, and gather tips to stay motivated.

Funded by a £5,000 grant from the Curo Community Chest, Eat Active sessions are taking place at Combe Down RFC until 31 August (on Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11am1pm for 5-10 year-olds, noon2pm for 11-16 year-olds).

“Eat Active will increase confidence in parents and young people to provide balanced meals,” says acting delivery manager Dan Hine. “We know from working within schools in these areas that holiday hunger and lack of positive activities is a big problem.

“Our coaches will be able to continue developing their positive relationships with the children through this work.”

While the ‘active’ part of the sessions – which involve a range of sports and activities – are for youngsters, all family members are welcome to attend and take part in the meal.

The Eat Active sessions, which have also been part-funded by a grant from Coventry Building Society, are run in partnership with Make Lunch.

For more: www.bathrugby.com

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

5 SEPTEMBER GREEN BUSINESS FUND If you’re a small company, this free workshop will help you identify and implement opportunities to reduce energy costs within your business, understand your bills and make the most of the Carbon Trust’s Green Business Fund. 9am, Bath Guildhall; www.carbontrust.com 6 SEPTEMBER NETWORKING AND NIBBLES Join Bath Chamber of Commerce and Visit Bath at the egg theatre for conversation, cocktails and canapés.

Make new contacts and learn more about the outreach and education work done by the egg’s creative learning team. 6pm, the egg, entry from £11; www.businesswest.co.uk 12 SEPTEMBER CREATING CONTENT FOR DIGITAL MARKETING A free interactive workshop explaining how to grow your business by enhancing your digital presence. If you’re baffled by blogging and want to create compelling content online, this is for you.

9am, Bath and County Club; www.bathandcountyclub.com www.coolventures.co.uk 13 SEPTEMBER MANAGE STRESS AT WORK The Federation of Small Businesses has teamed up with B&NES’ public health and business growth teams and local mental health charity Bath Mind to stage a free seminar to help small business owners manage the stress, health and wellbeing of their employees – and themselves.

10am, Bath Racecourse; www.fsb.org.uk

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

Rising PR star Charlotte Townsend

BATH’S GOT TALENT

Bath comms firm Creatrix PR has recently expanded its city centre team by hiring Bath Spa graduate Charlotte Townsend. Charlotte joins the firm as junior account executive after graduating from her media communications degree course this summer, having already completed work experience with them.

“To graduate from Bath Spa University and begin full-time employment with the brilliant team at Creatrix PR is a dream come true,” says Charlotte. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me, working in the city.” Charlotte’s new role comes as the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) survey shows that just over 96 per cent of Bath Spa University graduates are in work or further study just six months after finishing their courses.

For more: www.creatrixpr.co.uk

JUST CHAMPION!

South West law firm Mogers Drewett recently appointed former world and British triathlon champion Gillian Pears as its new HR director, to oversee its Bath, Sherborne, Wells and Frome offices. Gillian joins from global workwear company Williamson-Dickie Europe, bringing more than 25 years of extensive HR experience with her.

“I’m delighted to be part of an ambitious team that promotes work/life balance and is an avid supporter of local charities and sports initiatives,” says Gillian. “I’m really looking forward to building on the flexible working ethos.”

“Gillian is passionate and driven, and we’re delighted that she’s joined our senior management team,” says managing partner Steven Treharne.

“Dedicated to sports, she will help to drive forward our focus on wellbeing.”

For more: www.mogersdrewett.com

Weddings Families Portraiture Events Professional studio Fashion Jewellery Architecture

BeataCosgrovePhotographer beatacosgrovephotography

@BeataCosgrove

@ beatacosgrovephotography@gmail.com

www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

BUSINESS INSIDER

FANTASTIC FOUR Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing and important local business stories right now

BRIEF ENCOUNTER

A new luxury lingerie business, the wonderfully-monikered Titania & Bottom, is set to launch just outside Bath. “Titania & Bottom is a boudoir-led luxury atelier offering a line of indulgent, feminine and provocative lingerie,” says Ella Reid, the brains behind the new brand, based in Box. With plans to sell on Etsy and launch an online shop in the autumn, most of the lingerie – based on “playful designs, uncompromised by fit-conscious comfort” – will be designed and ethically made to order in-house by Ella herself, with small production runs being handmade by a seamstress.

“The finest French laces and pure peace silks will be hand-selected and combined with gold components to create underpinnings of sartorial pleasure and female empowerment,” she says. Now that’s what you call raising the bra.

For more: ellajareid@gmail.com

BATH BUILDS

The Bath Property Awards has a headline sponsor: Mogers Drewett.

TV property show star Martin Roberts has also been revealed as the guest host, and nominations have already started flowing in.

“Property is one of the key specialist areas of Mogers Drewett’s

ABOVE: Fast-growing chartered accountants, MHA Monahans; BELOW, FROM TOP: TV property show star Martin Roberts is hosting the first Bath Property Awards; Apex City of Bath Hotel’s Phil Bailey; TOP RIGHT: New luxury lingerie brand, Titania & Bottom

advisory work, from commercial to residential,” says Steven Treharne, managing partner of Mogers Drewett. “Many clients have been with us through several generations of their family, others are new and inspirational business and residential projects that are adding to the vibrancy of this exciting sector, which deserves to be recognised and celebrated. For this reason, we are delighted to be headline sponsors of the Bath Property Awards.”

Mogers Drewett is also a category sponsor, alongside Regus, Unividual, South West Business Finance (SWBF) and Minuteman. The Bath Property Awards, which celebrate all aspects of the dynamic local property market, will be a lunchtime event on 23 November at the Apex Hotel. Nominations are open now and the finalists will be announced in October – judges will choose the eventual winners.

For more: bathpropertyawards.co.uk

PEAK ATTRACTION

The award-winning Apex City of Bath Hotel is celebrating a successful first year of conference and events, bringing in more than half a million pounds to the local economy.

The £50 million property, which opened on the city’s James Street West in August last year, is Bath’s largest and only purpose-built city centre conference facility – since beginning to accept conference and events bookings in September 2017, the hotel has welcomed more than 20,000 delegates.

The conference team has worked hard to bring in creative and innovative measures, attracting companies who would not normally bring their business to the city.

“We have been thrilled with the uptake of businesses using our stateof-the-art conferencing facilities,” says Phil Bailey, the hotel’s events sales manager. “By attracting events from businesses within the UK and

beyond, we are helping to bring tourists to the city and giving the local economy a boost, which is great news for Bath.”

For more: www.apexhotels.co.uk

COUNT US IN

MHA Monahans is already a big player in Bath’s financial chartered accounting scene, but the firm was recently shortlisted for a top industry award in recognition of their growth over the last three years.

The Accounting Excellence Practice Growth Firm of the Year (try saying that quickly) Award recognises forward-thinking and innovative strategies that push for and display excellence in the accountancy profession.

“We’ve seen a fantastic crop of entrants for this year’s awards,” says Tom Herbert, editor of AccountingWEB and an Accounting Excellence judge. “While growth remains the number one goal for the majority, the way they are doing it is subtly shifting. It’s great to see innovative finance teams getting in on the act and receiving acknowledgement for the agility and talent they display.”

Due to a combination of mergers – the firm recently merged with Taunton-based BJ Dixon Walsh, spreading their South West reach – and organic growth, MHA Monahans’ turnover has increased by 20 per cent since 2015.

Simon Tombs, managing partner of the company, is delighted to have been shortlisted. “It is imperative to us that we retain our values and ethos as an independent, client-focused firm while continuing to develop our sector specialisms, reach and the knowledge that comes with our growth and rising position in the profession,” he says.

MHA Monahans will find out if they’ve won on 20 September – fingers crossed. n For more: www.monahans.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

BUSINESS INSIDER We won! Stephanie Massie, Jamie Luck and Ruth Keily from Mentoring Plus

© JENI MEADE

when I get to co-run a session with our youth reps.

Steph: I love the fact that we see and develop the positives in young people who are facing tough challenges. And we are constantly amazed by our brilliant volunteers. We’re dynamic, fun and everyone has a voice. It really is the best place I’ve worked.

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2018

Director of Mentoring Plus, Jamie Luck – together with colleagues Stephanie Massie and Ruth Keily – tells us more about mentor training, amazing volunteers, and inspiring our community to help the young and vulnerable CHARITY WINNER SPONSORED BY

How did it feel to win an Award?

Jamie: Absolutely buzzing – although that might have been the free wine. I used the award as my beer bottle stand for the evening. It now sits in our trophy cabinet/office shelving unit – minus the beer bottle!

Tell us about Mentoring Plus…

We’re a community charity supporting 7-21 year olds across B&NES with trained volunteer mentors and confidence-building activities. Schools and other professionals refer young people to us when they’re struggling in school or facing tough times with family, peers or mental wellbeing.

“OUR VOLUNTEERS HAVE JUST WON A QUEEN’S AWARD” 90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Were you surprised to win?

Jamie: In all honesty, no. We see it as a recognition of the hundreds of local people who volunteered to support local young people for the charity over the past 20 years. Oh, and I noticed the camera crew filming me as they announced the award, so guessed it might in the bag.

Ruth: I’d convinced myself that with the brilliant work of the other charities shortlisted, we wouldn’t win. When we did, I did a lot of girly shrieking.

on fundraising and revenue projects, communications, and evaluation and reporting to keep us accountable to our donors and funders.

Steph: I’m community development manager, which means fundraising – getting supporters to sign up for the Bath Half, Bike Bath etc – and building links with local businesses and our wider community.

How would you describe your work atmosphere?

Jamie: Currently a little sweaty, in both senses. We’ve got a huge new project starting in September, and, as always, lots of fundraising required to keep the good ship floating.

How do you train and support your mentors?

Jamie: We run training sessions three times a year. Once volunteers have completed an interview process they’re matched with a mentee, and given support throughout their year with us – monthly supervision, termly skill-sharing sessions and staff on hand whenever help is required.

Is there a typical day?

Jamie: Never, apart from Monday morning’s team meeting – when we get a chance to catch up, celebrate achievements, reflect on challenges, lick any wounds, and go again in the interests of local children.

Share an inspiring story with us...

Jamie: One of our young people has just been awarded ‘young citizen of the year’ by the local mayor. I was in bits when I heard, because Sam is very deserving – positive, kind, and faces his challenges with such courage.

What’s your role at the charity?

Jamie: ‘The boss’ – which terrifies, amuses, challenges and inspires me in equal measure.

Ruth: As Jamie’s deputy, I keep an eye

Best bit about your job?

Jamie: Learning every week about what our 50-plus pairs of mentors and mentees have been up to. Working with our staff, who inspire me. Best of all is

And the hardest part?

Jamie: Generating income, and the increasing vulnerability in sections of our community. The need for services like ours is increasing, as is the competition for the limited funds within the city. Youth crime, for example, is rising and investment in youth services is decreasing – these things have to be connected. There’s no simple solution, but it’s important that people are aware of these issues as we’re all part of this community – warts and all. You can’t not be politicised by this work.

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

Jamie: Eradicate the child poverty faced by over 20 per cent of children in Bath. And if money allows, keep on keeping on – inspiring our community to help our young and most vulnerable, because all children have the right to be safe and realise their potential.

How would you advise someone looking to go into this sector?

Jamie: Be clear on your motivation.

This work requires resilience, selfawareness and compassion. If that’s all cool, this could be the most incredible, rewarding and real experience you’ll ever have.

Any news to share?

Jamie: Our volunteers have just won a Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services, the highest national award a charity can receive; and our youth reps are developing their young people’s manifesto with Good For Nothing, before opening a charity shop and staging a fashion show in October.

What do you love about Bath?

Jamie: Bath City FC, the river, the canal, the parks, Two Tunnels.

Steph: Kelston Roundhill, the RUH swimming pool, Theatre Royal, the egg, Excel tennis, Bath Festivals, Boston Tea Party – we have access to big city stuff whilst still being able to walk or cycle most places.

For more: www.mentoringplus.net

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the start-up

These dynamic new businesses are taking Bath by storm TIM LAMBERT

DEEMA ASHURST

ROCKSTAR SPORT

THE STORY GIFT

www.rockstar-sport.com

www.thestorygift.co.uk What does your business do?

We are manufacturers and retailers of high-quality sportswear, with a rock star edge.

How did your business come about?

As an ultramarathon runner, if I’m not working then I’m training. I wanted stylish running gear that was as fashionable as my casual clothes, but couldn’t find any.

Talking to friends, I realised that lots of people felt like this so along with a couple of partners, Rockstar was born.

What does your business do?

We’re an online literary gift shop that provides bookish delights for book lovers – both readers and writers. We have all sorts of goodies, from Sherlock Holmes candles to Jane Austen notebooks, but our signature literary hampers are really popular. The ‘book lovers’, ‘Jane Austen’ and ‘authors/writers’ hampers are our best sellers and we also have a service to create your own literary hamper, perfect for that personalised touch.

How did your business come about?

Reading is my addiction. I adore books and many of my friends do, too. One day I was looking through six different websites to find the perfect literary gift when a little spark was ignited and I thought how nice a literary hamper would be. This idea expanded from novella to novel and became a business.

Why did you choose Bath?

I’m a Bath Spa alumnus and I love the area, so Bath was the place for me. However, we ship globally, and have already sent hampers to bibliophiles in remote corners of the globe!

Tim Lambert

What are your plans for the next year?

When we launched, we had enough budget to start with a range of t-shirts and test the market. Our sales and feedback have been phenomenal so we knew the business had great potential. We love brands like Patagonia, with their environmental ethos, so we are sourcing materials made from 100% recycled plastic bottles that perform as well as traditional polyester during exercise. With the investment we now have, we will have these tees made up and also branch out into jackets, running tights, shorts and accessories to become a bigger brand with a wider range.

Deema Ashurst

DANIEL DALY

CHARLIE BIRD

HOST MY PROPERTY

SPIN VILLAGE

01225 587 071, hello@hostmyproperty.co.uk; www.hostmyproperty.co.uk

hello@spinvillage.bike; www.spinvillage.bike What does your business do?

Spin Village is a boutique indoor cycling studio in Milsom Place, launching later this year.

What does your business do?

We provide a full property management service using short term let websites such as Airbnb to increase the rental return for property owners in Bath. The service includes setting up online profiles, managing bookings, liaising with guests, organising cleaning and linen…basically everything that takes the hassle out of the process for property owners!

Why did you choose Bath?

Because it’s my home and I love this city. It’s where my family live and where my children will soon be going to school. I have been involved in a property business for the last 12 years and I really feel it’s important that you have someone locally you can trust, with local knowledge and has a wide network of contacts.

What’s the best decision you have made since launching the company?

Investing in our website (www.hostmyproperty.co.uk), which gives potential clients a real opportunity to understand what we offer. It has links to some of our existing properties and reviews, so it’s an easy way for clients to see what we do while showing the consistently high level of service we provide.

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

Why did you choose Bath?

With Bath’s passion for sport and exercise, we felt boutique fitness would thrive here, and that Spin Village would be a welcome addition to the exciting mix of independent businesses in the city.

Plans for the next year?

Spin Village has been modelled on some of the best indoor cycling studios in the world. Yet there will still be a huge effort over the coming months to listen to our customers and adapt to create the best experience possible. Our studio belongs to our riders as much as it belongs to us!

Daniel Daly

Charlie Bird

If you could give one bit of advice to a new start-up, what would it be?

Stay local and find businesses that are dedicated to their trade. BBA Architects, TotalFitnessBath, Ignition Branding, Colston & Colston, Status AudioVisuals, Oakland Construction and Clair Strong Interior Design have all been instrumental in the launch of Spin Village. Bath has a fantastic network of independent specialists and we’re proud to have them on board.

SPONSORED BY:

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TRACY CHAPMAN

GEORGE WHITE

www.chocolatevoyage.com

info@brewedboy.co.uk; @brewed_boy

What does your business do?

Our mission is to introduce and inspire people to savour and know a new generation of fine craft chocolate, being made from the most flavoursome cacao in the world. Chocolate Voyage is launching a website this month where we plan to sell individual bars and curate monthly subscription boxes made by the top craft chocolate-makers here in England, and places like Ecuador and Vietnam.

What does your business do?

We’re a tap house and bottle shop that sells the best craft beer from around the world. We specialise in all different styles of beer from the UK but also buy in beers from the US and Scandinavian markets that we then sell for drinking in or takeaway in our outlets in Bath and Frome.

BREWED BOY

FOUNDER, CHOCOLATE VOYAGE

Why did you choose Bath?

We chose Bath as the place to launch our business because it’s an extraordinary city, and we know both residents and visitors are interested in learning about and savouring remarkable food – we plan to engage with them through pop-ups and tasting events.

What is the single achievement you are most proud of?

Definitely when we were nominated for new business of the year at the Mendip Business Awards. It was a great evening – we were surrounded by lots of experienced businessmen and women who had created amazing brands in our local area.

Tracy Chapman

Plans for the next year?

It’s a very busy time at Brewed Boy, with Frome and Bath fully open and trading, and we will also be opening our third tap house and brewery in Sherborne in the autumn. It has been a dream of mine to open Imaginary Friends Brewing. I would love to open more outlets across the south west eventually, and let people enjoy great craft beer wherever a Brewed Boy may be!

What motivates you?

I have always had a passion for real food and its origins.

As a devoted chocophile, I turned this desire to truly understand chocolate into a career; first studying with the International Chocolate and Cacao Tasting Institute for a Master Taster certification and then becoming a judge for the International Chocolate Awards. Starting Chocolate Voyage is a way to share knowledge and encourage our customers to enjoy only the best.

George White

ROXANNA HAJIANI

ALIX POPHAM

07896 765773; www.loveyourstuff.co.uk

info@hubxv.com; www.hubxv.com

What does your business do?

Love Your Stuff was set up to clear and organise homes. The aim is to create living spaces in which people feel unencumbered, light and joyful. We cease to be weighed down by excess ‘stuff’ when we gently shed what no longer serves us and we truly love what we already own. I help clients let go of superfluous items, neatly organise belongings that bring them joy and create easy access to treasured articles. From clothing to books and kitchenware to furniture, the service sorts anything that needs organising. Furniture and objects can also be re-arranged so rooms open up and flow.

What does your business do?

HUB XV creates inspirational collaborative working environments in leading sports stadia. Besides enjoying fantastic benefits and outstanding office locations, members can also connect with international sports stars in our community.

LOVE YOUR STUFF

HUB XV

How did your business come about?

Expanding year-on-year, collaborative working is now critical to business strategy for corporates and individuals alike. HUB XV harnesses this trend, but our elite networks and world-class environments put us leagues above your average co-working venue.

Roxanna Hajiani

Why did you choose Bath?

Bath’s unique sports heritage and prestige as a city resonate with the exclusive brand we’re building. We are based at Bath Racecourse, a beautiful and ideallysituated venue that attracts a clientele who thrive in our collaborative working community.

If you could give one bit of advice to a new startup, what would it be?

Love what you do. Be passionate about it. Believe in yourself.

If you could change one thing about Bath, what would it be?

It would be wonderful if there was a spacious cultural venue where people could meet up to see young artists’ work, listen to live music, hear interesting lectures and watch dramatic or literary performances while having a coffee or enjoying good quality affordable food.

Alix Popham

What motivates you?

As evidenced by the experiences of professional athletes in our network, we know what can be achieved when elite individuals support each other to reach shared goals. This awareness informs HUB XV’s core values of teamwork, honesty and performance excellence, which run through all that we do. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

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Living the good life at The Chocolate Quarter

LUXE LIVING

These top-end local retirement villages offer luxuries such as chauffeur services, spas and personal trainers Words by Hugo Ball 96 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R

etirement living is evolving at a rate of knots. These days, retirement – and all the freedom and enjoyment that goes with it – has become much more of a lifestyle choice. Forget the dour, depressing, last-resort care homes of old, the new wave of luxury, high-end retirement homes and villages offer boutiquestyle properties, independence and real communities to integrate with. Here are four local ones breaking the mould…

AVONPARK VILLAGE

Established retirement village in Limpley Stoke, Wiltshire What sets you apart?

“Avonpark is a private, independent living village with a care home within the grounds,” says regional sales manager, Kerry Richardson.

“Residents in our independent properties (apartments and bungalows) have exclusive use of our central clubhouse which comprises a restaurant, bistro, library and a conservatory

RETIREMENT

compared to a five-star hotel. Potential residents and members of the local community were involved in the design of the facilities and services, and this user-led approach is exactly why visitors are invariably amazed by the high-quality finish and design of the spacious apartments.”

What’s your care philosophy?

ABOVE: Avonpark Village in Limpley stoke; BELOW: Cosy lounge space at Lambrook Court

“The Chocolate Quarter is owned and run by Bristol-based charity, St Monica Trust. Our outstanding reputation is built on understanding what matters to each and every individual so that everything is done just the way they like it.

“Tailored care, delivered for residents in their own apartment, can easily be arranged; and Charterhouse, our on-site specialist care home, offers nursing, dementia and end-of-life care, respite services and rehabilitation. Our multiskilled carers are supported by registered nurses to deliver the highest standards of care tailored to the exact needs of each resident.”

Principal benefits for residents?

overlooking the beautiful Avon Valley.

“Residents also organise their own pursuits, pretty much like any other village around the country. We also look to integrate with the local community; for instance, some of our residents go to read with the children in the local primary school.”

What’s your care philosophy?

“Our strapline is ‘carefree living’ – this is our philosophy, in all sense of the words. Our care home is run by our registered care partner, HC-One.” Tell us about the different lifestyle packages you offer...

“Residents can buy (leasehold), and rental is also available on a number of properties.

All the grounds and communal areas of our village are maintained by a team of staff, while the village mini-bus provides a handy means for residents to take trips into Bath and other local towns and points of interest.”

THE CHOCOLATE QUARTER Iconic former Cadbury factory in Keynsham, redesigned for first-class retirement living What sets you apart?

“Our impressive facilities include fine dining, a bistro, hairdressers, cinema, arts studio, pool and gym, all open to the public, bringing people of all generations together to create a stimulating atmosphere,” says Rachel Baker, director of sales and marketing. “And there are private, resident-only areas for occupants and their loved-ones – a stunning atrium with bandstand, a play area for grandchildren to enjoy, ‘Immersion Travel’ virtual reality, roof gardens, terraces and private lounges.

“The Chocolate Quarter has been

“Residents have the freedom to relax and maintain the important things in life - spending time with loved ones and doing the things they enjoy. The hospitality team are on hand to help with household jobs such as housekeeping, laundry and maintenance. The Chocolate Quarter is located close to Keynsham and the railway station, offering links to the rest of the UK. There’s also a GP surgery within the complex and a club car on-site that’s available for hire exclusively to residents.”

Next open day?

“The show home is open daily, Monday to Saturday, are care home tours are also easily arranged. Sales have currently reached 75 per cent, and prices start at £233,000. ” Trajectus Way, Keynsham, BS31 2GJ; www.thechocolatequarter.org.uk

Principal benefits for residents?

“One of the biggest benefits is the social aspect. We often hear new arrivals saying they have been to one or two events in the village and made a whole host of new friends – something they didn’t envisage happening before they moved in.”

Next open day?

“We’re having a coffee morning on 20 September, from 10am-12.30pm.”

Winsley Hill, Limpley Stoke, Wiltshire BA2 7FF; www.avonparkvillage.co.uk

“The Chocolate Quarter has been compared to a fivestar hotel” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97

RETIREMENT LAMBROOK COURT

Luxury, age-exclusive apartments in Larkhall from retirement property developer, McCarthy & Stone What sets you apart?

“Lambrook Court features luxurious, highspec one- and two-bedroom properties, all of which are spacious, stylish and perfect for a relaxed and independent retirement,” says Kevin Sims, regional sales and marketing director for McCarthy & Stone South West.

“A McCarthy & Stone apartment is more than just a new home, it’s a lifestyle choice.

“Lambrook Court apartments include fully-fitted modern kitchens, underfloor heating, open-plan living areas, stylish en suite bathrooms and beautifully landscaped gardens. With no maintenance worries, homeowners are free to spend more time doing the things they enjoy, forging new friendships and living their retirement years to the full.”

Tell us about the different lifestyle packages you offer...

“Designed for those aged 70 and over, we give home-owners access to a little extra support, if required. Flexible domestic and personalised care packages are available, which can be tailored to provide varying levels of support according to individual needs.”

Principal benefits for residents?

“Social areas, including a club lounge and a bistro restaurant, and a convenient guest suite, should homeowners have friends or relatives to stay; social events; 24-hour safety and security; and Lambrook Court is conveniently located just a short distance from all the amenities in Larkhall, meaning homeowners can enjoy a full and active lifestyle.”

Next open day?

“Retirees can come to a weekly afternoon tea event, which takes places every Thursday, between 2pm and 4pm. Those who attend have the opportunity to have an informal chat with Lambrook Court home-owners and to view show apartments. Prices currently start at £385,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and £499,950 for a two-bedroom apartment.”

Gloucester Road, Bath, BA1 8AZ; www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/lambrookcourt

WADSWICK GREEN

Lifestyle village for over-60s in Corsham What sets you apart?

“It’s easy to be modern, the real challenge is to stay relevant for our current and future residents,” says Angela McKimmie, head of sales and marketing at Wadswick Green.

“Interested buyers are always pleasantly surprised when they discover our spacious, open-plan apartments first-hand. What really sets us apart from big-scale retirement developments is that we have a friendly, established community. From the beginning, our objective was to create a village for over60s that encourages people to make new friends, discover new or forgotten hobbies and

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

The inviting pool and jacuzzi at Wadswick Green

really make the most of retirement.”

What’s your care philosophy?

“To provide a bespoke, high quality, discreet and professional service that is caring, responsive, well-led, effective and safe. We aim to achieve this by being respectful, honest, dependable and reliable while being compassionate and nurturing. We listen to our residents and always seek to improve and be recognised for excellence.”

Tell us about the different lifestyle packages you offer...

“Everything we offer has the purpose of improving residents’ quality of life. On-site amenities include a luxurious spa with treatment rooms, pool and jacuzzi, and a gym with an in-house personal trainer who can also give nutritional advice. There’s a hair salon on-site, too. And our restaurant, The Greenhouse, is a true social hub where residents and locals alike mingle and enjoy delicious meals. Our team also organises regular events such as fashion shows or days out, and our chauffeur service is always delighted to take residents out for a shopping spree to nearby Bath.”

What about living arrangements?

“Our contemporary apartments are lowmaintenance and have low energy bills, which is a breath of fresh air for residents who have previously lived in a traditional family home. Wadswick Green also fully embraces Wiltshire’s beautiful countryside, with numerous landscaped gardens on our grounds – a real focal point.”

Next open day?

“Anyone is invited to visit our recently-opened marketing suite and showroom, located opposite The Greenhouse restaurant.”

The Pavilion, Roundwood Way, Corsham SN13 9FN; www.wadswickgreen.co.uk

DIRECTORY

More local retirement and specialist care homes Bloomfield Care Centre Salisbury Road, Paulton BS39 7BD; www.barchester.com/home/bloomfieldcare-centre Brunel House The Wharf, Box SN13 8EP; www.mmcg.co.uk Chantry Court Chantry Lane, Westbury BA13 3FE; www.chantrycourt.com Kingfisher Lodge Care Centre Chestnut Walk, Saltford BS31 3BG; www.barchester.com/home/kingfisherlodge-care-centre Oriel Lodge Oriel Gardens, Lower Swainswick BA1 7AS; www.oriellodge.com Shockerwick House (BUPA) Shockerwick Lane, Bathford BA1 7LL; www.bupa.co.uk/care-services/carehomes/shockerwick-house-bath Westbury Court Care Home 6 Station Road, Westbury BA13 3JH; www.brighterkind.com/westburycourt Wingfield Care Home 70A Wingfield Road, Trowbridge BA14 9EN; www.barchester.com/home/wingfieldcare-home

Oriel Lodge A highly rated residential care home, specialising in dementia care for the elderly. With local, friendly management and staff, Oriel Lodge prides itself on the quality of service it provides all its residents.

Oriel Lodge has several amenities including an in-house chef who provides high quality meals. It also has a conservatory with spectacular views of Bath, provides regular activities centred around its residents’ lives, and has a quiet area for residents.

Please call us to talk about your needs, or arrange a visit.

Oriel Gardens, Swainswick, Bath BA1 7AS info@oriellodge.com • 01225 310 301 • www.oriellodge.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sandwich generation

Are you a ‘filler’ or a member of the ‘top layer’? HELEN STARKIE explains more…

T

he ‘Sandwich Generation’ is no longer a novel phenomenon and now that we are living longer it is here to stay. How does it affect you? Well, the effects are doubtless only clear to those in the ‘sandwich filling’ position, but they should not be the only ones to give the matter thought.

Life for the ‘fillers’ is inevitably stressful because of the conflicting demands on their time and resources made by their children (and in some cases grandchildren), their parents and, usually, their own working lives. Often, they feel that they have no life of their own to speak of – and this at a time when they should be in their prime. When their parents were their age, often only one spouse worked and their parents had predeceased them; they are seen as having had ‘a life’.

As a member of the top ‘sandwich layer’, you can mitigate the demands on your children’s overstretched time by taking the trouble to make Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) in respect of both your finances and your welfare.

If you do not do this and you subsequently become unable to manage your own affairs, then you will saddle your children with the job of making an application for an appointment by the Court of Protection of a ‘deputy’ (who may or may not be a child of yours) to manage things for you.

The process of making such an application is very much slower and much more expensive than making an LPA. The cost of the exercise will be borne by you. That is bad enough. From your children’s point of view the position is worse. The burden of time to be invested in securing an order appointing a deputy would have to be absorbed by them. The process can take many weeks and the duties of a deputy, once appointed, involve the keeping

“IF A MEMBER OF THE OLDER GENERATION DIES WITHOUT HAVING MADE A WILL, THEN THE WORK FOR THEIR CHILDREN WILL BE GREATER THAN IF THEY HAD THE FORESIGHT TO MAKE A PROPER WILL”

of accounts and regular contact with and payments to the court. If your children are trying to manage their own working lives and support their children then the burden can be crippling. It is simply not fair to put them in such a position when it is so easy to think ahead and put proper arrangements in place.

It is also helpful to let your family know what sort of care you would like, should you need it – and where, if you know of somewhere which you think would suit you. Tell them what your funeral wishes are, too.

We frequently receive anxious calls from family members who have just lost a parent asking us to check wills we are holding for them, as the family has no idea whether they wanted to be buried or cremated, wanted to donate organs for transplant and what sort of service (if any) they would have wanted. These things really worry families. They do not want to make a decision of which they think the parent may not have approved.

If a member of the older generation dies without having made a will then, again, the work for their children will be greater than if they have had the foresight to make a proper will (drawn by a qualified solicitor, please – not an unqualified will-writer!). You can save your children so much trouble by planning ahead.

If you are in the ‘filler’ category, then don’t forget that you should be thinking about making LPAs and wills, too, to save your own children the burden you are hoping your parents will save you after reading this!

It is a pity that death and old age infirmity are so little discussed these days within families. We have become coy about these topics and tend only to talk about them when circumstances force us to – but so much anguish can be avoided if families have realistic discussions about future arrangements and expectations.

Clients of mine who have done this report that the exercise has been quite liberating and can actually be surprisingly jolly! Try it over the bank holiday weekend. ■

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the Wills, Trusts and Probate lawyer Elliot Chambers from GOUGHS SOLICITORS talks Wills…

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document that allows you to control how and to whom your estate will pass after your death.

What will happen if I die without a Will?

If you die intestate (without having made a valid Will), your estate will pass in accordance with the rules of intestacy. Under these rules, the beneficiaries of your estate will change depending upon who survives you and can often lead to unexpected results.

“GETTING MARRIED IS LIKELY TO BE A SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES”

What is an executor of a Will?

An executor is a person appointed under your Will who is responsible for administering your estate after you die. You can have more than one executor and the executors can also be beneficiaries of your Will. You can also appoint professional executors to ensure that the administration of your estate is done correctly and efficiently.

Do I need to change my Will if I marry or get divorced?

Unless your Will specifically states otherwise, the act of marriage will automatically revoke any Will that you have previously prepared. Getting married is also likely to be a significant change in your circumstances, and your wishes for your estate may well change. It is, therefore, a good idea to put in place a new Will before or shortly after you get married. On Divorce your Will won’t

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

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automatically be revoked, but any gifts to your former spouse and any appointment of them as your Executor will fail. This is only the case once a decree absolute has been granted and it is often a good idea to review the terms of your Will before this time, whilst going through the divorce process. ■

Elliot Chambers, Solicitor Goughs Solicitors 01225 762683 elliotchambers@goughs.co.uk 2 Fore Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 8HX www.goughs.co.uk

residence

COTTAGE INDUSTRY Filled with carefully chosen salvaged objects, industrial fittings and heirlooms, Harry and Rebecca Whittaker’s beautifully restored weaver’s cottage in Bradford on Avon is a modern family home, big on charm

by Lauren Scott Photography by Ali Peck

The glorious vista of Bradford on Avon, as seen from the Whittakers’ garden

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

RESIDENCE

B

ased in Bath, Harry Whittaker has been a conservation architect for most of his professional life (he recently set up his own company, Bath Conservation Architects).

Specialising in the conservation, restoration and repair of historic buildings, he brings new life to old structures through modern adaptation and alteration, creating beautiful homes for the 21st century. Quite handy, really, as, after two years of hard graft, sweat and tears, he and his wife, Rebecca – a relationship therapist working with Relate in Wiltshire – have transformed their old weaver’s limestone cottage in Bradford on Avon from a structural wreck into a characterful and beautiful family abode with a contemporary, rustic luxe feel.

Your weaver’s cottage is quite something – do you know its history?

Rebecca: It was built sometime around 1790, on land

which would’ve been the gardens to the surrounding 17th century houses. It dates from the period when weaving, then a small-scale cottage industry, was growing and adapting, requiring larger buildings to work from, but it predates the large-scale woollen mills built along the River Avon at the beginning of the 19th century.

What did the house look like when you bought it?

Harry: When we bought it in 2011, the house was in very

poor condition – it looked very tired and was suffering from severe structural failure. It was an example of an 18th century jerry-built structure [a building put up quickly and cheaply] with walls of four-inch stonework only to the upper floors. We were very aware of the amount of work needed and divided it into two phases.

The first phase involved getting the building structurally sound and stable by rebuilding the roof, the stone gables and the chimneys by stitching and tying the walls and floor back together; the second phase involved the construction of a three-storey extension and the cladding of the 1980s concrete garage in local stone.

“The views across town is one of the reasons we bought the house in the first place” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

RESIDENCE What was your vision for it?

H: The aim was to create a modern family home in the

centre of town, which would have all the architectural benefits of a Georgian house but that would fully develop the physical links to the outside spaces, allowing the house and garden to work as one. The building sits on a prominent terraced site overlooking Bradford on Avon, so the design of the outside areas is in many ways as important as the house itself. The way the kitchen opens into the rear courtyard is a very important element, and the connection of the house to the garden, with its views across the town, is one of the reasons we bought the house in the first place.

How long did the project take?

R: In all, the building work took around two years. To

reduce costs, we handled all the trades ourselves, working directly with various suppliers and sub-contractors. And while we were doing up the house, we rented a lovely old (but very cold!) stone farmhouse in Kington Langley, just north of Chippenham. It was a time-consuming and expensive process but one which allowed us to get every detail exactly as we wanted.

Talk us through the interior...

H: The interior is now a mix of the original, cellular

Georgian rooms with other areas opened up as large internal spaces. The house is all painted one colour – Dulux Dusted Moss 2. The internal partitions and false ceilings to the top floor were removed to form one open space, much as it would have been when the house was built. Some of the timbers used to form the partitions were reused from earlier structures and were probably parts of early wool looms. The north wall is well-glazed with closely spaced, bar-divided sash windows, which would have provided natural light for the weavers. It makes this floor a very bright and open space, now open to the underside of the roof.

And the kitchen?

H: The kitchen, a lean-to structure to the rear of the

house, was fully rebuilt with oak frames and steel-framed glazing. A wall of glazing opens out to the south-facing cobbled courtyard which allows light to fill the back of the house. Here, we used salvaged Carrara marble, both on the floors and for a double sink and drainer, which was carved from a single block of the same marble. This, along with a work surface salvaged from a fishmonger many years before, creates a light and open cooking and dining area.

The kitchen is a bright and open cooking and dining area

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CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: This lovely vintage spotlight adds character; a cosy lounge space to hunker down in; one of the spacious bedrooms, with gorgeous old beams; Rebecca and Harry relaxing in their beautiful home; in the bathroom, a big salvaged mirror is a real focal point

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THIS PAGE: the beautiful exterior; OPPOSITE: an old marble pestle

converted into a basin was set on a marble base

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“The kitchen garden is totally enclosed, and feels very Mediterranean and sunny”

RESIDENCE Do you have any favourite or specific independent retailers, suppliers or tradespeople that you sourced from locally?

H: The second phase of work relied on the sale of a flat

in Bath, so we carefully amassed and stored a collection of internal fittings including floor finishes, furniture, sanitaryware, kitchen fittings, furniture and building materials, all from a range of local salvage yards in the area and from the internet.

Can you give us some examples?

H: The top floor en-suite has a basin made from a large

Italian marble pestle on a stone base bought from a salvage yard near Wootton Bassett. The large ceramic double sink in the entrance hall, with its foot-operated taps, came from Wells Reclamation Architectural Salvage. Other materials came from Fired Earth and Mandarin Stone in Bath, and The Beechfield Reclamation Company in Devizes.

What have you learnt from the process?

R: This isn’t the first project that we have undertaken

together, but is possibly the one we have enjoyed the most. After deciding to move to the South West, we were very excited to find a derelict house in such a wonderful location. Even though things were sometimes difficult with the various demands of the project, we stayed strong, positive and committed, making sure that everything kept moving forward to realise our strong design ideals, which were very important to us both.

Which bits of the house are you most proud of?

R: The contemporary kitchen and south-facing kitchen

garden, which has a strong Mediterranean feel, with vines and wisteria cladding the south wall. And we love the Italianate marble basin in the top bathroom, set within a large, light-filled space. www.bathconservationarchitects.com

Got an amazing Bath home? Want it to feature in Residence? Contact lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk

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A PLACETO CALL HOME

PROPERTY A PL ACE TO C ALL HOME

TOWER PLAY

Take a look inside this fairytale, castlestyle abode which has been extended and enriched over the centuries…

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PROPERTY

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I

f you stand at the foot of the aptly named Tower House and look up, you expect to see a long, golden braid of hair being flung out of a window, like something out of a Brothers Grimm story.

The magnificent, Grade-II listed fairytale-looking abode has been refurbished to the highest standards, and the original elegant Georgian centrepiece at its core has been extended over the centuries to include a dramatic west wing and Scottish castle-style tower, and then balanced in the mid 19th century with a second wing on the east side.

At the rear, the coach house, also a later addition, now serves as a triple garage, housing a room specifically used for nurturing plants, with a games room above which can be easily accessed on a whim from the main house.

Features inside the property include an impressive staircase, generous hall, and a floor-to-ceiling mullion stained glass window. A Baronial-style fireplace complements the south-facing drawing room, and the four further reception rooms are enhanced by high ceilings, decorative plasterwork and French doors leading on to the terrace.

At circa 8 ,000 sq ft, this property offers the rare benefit of lateral living in Bath. Most of the space is on two floors, served by a main and secondary staircase.

All the rooms are of good proportions, with the four main bedrooms boasting their own newly refitted, tasteful bathrooms. The current owners have spared

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PROPERTY

no expense in refurbishing the property, and have meticulously added modern infrastructure to their family palace, including gas central heating, plumbing and contemporary window upgrades.

This is a flexible home with room for everyone to have their space; the games room, playroom, music room, temperature-controlled wine cellar and guest wing – yes – all boast an abundance of storage. The spacious kitchen-cum-family-room is complemented by a pantry, laundry area, boot room and linen cupboards.

The Tower House’s spacious grounds – over two acres of them – have been lovingly cared for over the decades, with each owner taking care to plant, stock, manage and maintain the beautiful mature gardens, complete with water features, woodland paths, dining terraces, a secret garden, a huge level formal lawn and a Palladianstyle summerhouse.

So where exactly will you find all of this luxury? In the parish village of Batheaston, about two miles east of central Bath. Local history sparkles and dances through the streets, which are lined with an attractive mix of period cottages and detached houses. And the village is on the doorstep of some decent walks and popular locations such as Solsbury Hill, the Kennet and Avon Canal, and a historic toll bridge which crosses the river to Bathampton where a ferry service runs into the city.

It’s easy to see and feel how The Tower House has enriched many different lifestyles throughout the years. Each era has added something new, creating a comfortable home full of architectural interest. All you need to do is kick Rapunzel out, and this vast space could be yours.

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HOUSE NUMBERS Square feet of space Bedrooms Gardens Price Where?

8,000 8 2 acres £3.25m

Batheaston

What else? A guest wing, wine room, triple garage, secret garden and games room Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EN; 01225 474 500; www.savills.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

It’s all about perception…

B

Peter Greatorex from THE APARTMENT COMPANY explains why you should view a property like a tourist

ath. Its beauty, heritage and vibrancy make it a year-round tourist destination. Yet, in the summer months, as the numbers of those keen to explore our hypnotic city increase, us natives like to travel and discover new and faraway towns and countries. How we interact with the place where we live and the places we visit is very different, and it is for this reason we believe when you view a property you should do it like you’re a tourist.

DELETE THE PRECONCEPTIONS When on holiday we take everything at face value; we usually have no preconceived ideas and therefore appreciate everything, the good and the bad. Whereas, when we live in an area, we have judgements, we make decisions based on experiences, hearsay and perceptions, which can often mean we miss out on incredible opportunities.

Trust your estate agent. If they have taken the

time to get to know you and what you’re looking for they can often get a sense of the type of property that would work for you, and this may not be what you have listed on paper.

ENSURE YOUR EYES ARE OPEN Have you ever noticed that when you walk around the streets where you live you’re not always paying attention? You know how the pavement twists and turns, where the usual obstacles are; you hear similar sounds each day, and maybe pass regular faces. Yet the more you walk this path, the more the details seem to fade away; you may notice the unexpected, but the normal simply just blends in.

Just because you may know the area in which the apartment is situated, this doesn’t mean that you’ve really seen it. Go and investigate it as though you were seeing it for the first time, flaws may surface that you had previously forgotten, and the benefits could be singing their way to your heart.

ALLOW YOURSELF TO FEEL Lying on the sunbed looking out to the ocean and the sun beaming down, your worries seem to drift away, you just cherish the moment and embrace that holiday feeling. When viewing a property, so many things are running through our minds that we often don’t enjoy the experience.

Next time you view a property, think like a tourist and you will see the home and area with fresh and non-judgemental eyes to enable you to make the right decision for you. ■

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

AJ Removals Removals - Storage - Shipping - Packing

Tel: 01225 404060

enquiries@ajremovalsbath.co.uk

Unit 12 Stable Yard Industrial Estate, Windsor Bridge Road, Bath BA2 3AY

www.ajremovalsbath.co.uk

RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Peace of mind for landlords

The team at Reside Bath have been extremely professional, helpful and friendly at every stage of the renting process, making the experience less stressful than it might have been. I can thoroughly recommend them.

01225 445777 | www.residebath.co.uk | @ResideBath

BATH LIVES

“My secret pleasure is collecting art and sculpture – I can’t help myself” CRAIG JENKINS A businessman first and foremost, we wanted to get to know the more human side of the new executive chairman of Visit Bath…

I first got to know Bath because… in the ’8 0s, one of my housemates at Exeter University lived here. It was very different then – a lot less cosmopolitan. I’ve now lived here for 25 years.

On a day off, you’ll find me… at 44AD gallery – there’s so much creativity there. Just along the road from there is a little café called Pickled Greens which is special to me now, and The Assembly Inn is a good, honest pub.

My most treasured possession is… a book, in Russian, given to me by a brave journalist and publisher called Boris Bagaryatsky. Russia was in chaos in the early ’90s, and, amid all the trouble, he gave me the very first book published by the Nachala-Press. I was in Moscow when he gave it to me.

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It really was wild there. On my last day, I was supposed to have a meeting in the Moscow World Trade Centre; as we pulled up, two businessmen were gunned down in the lobby. I don’t know whether Boris made it through those troubled times, but I hope he did.

My favourite view is… the one from my study, which takes in everything from Camden to Prior Park.

My secret pleasure is… collecting art and sculpture – I can’t help myself.

I’m besotted with… my very greedy blue roan cocker spaniel called Barty.

My hidden talent is… playing the piano. I got to grade eight and did really love playing Chopin.

My biggest achievement was… helping to create the Ruwenzori Sculpture Foundation in Western Uganda; we have a foundry, gallery and a clinic there which supports hundreds of people. Soon we hope to have a small hospital.

A proud moment for me was… becoming a trustee at Bath Mind. My dad had mental health issues for years and kept it all under wraps – it’s so good that attitudes are changing.

I’d want my last meal to be... pork chops, mashed potato, peas and gravy.

Something I’d like to learn is… Norwegian. I’ve been trying to learn for 20 years, but my Norwegian friends keep speaking English.

Something not many know people about me is…

Richard Burton was my first cousin.

At Visit Bath I am… in charge of the board of directors, and am ultimately responsible for the running of the company.

I am also… a director and part owner of Pangolin Editions, the largest art foundry in the world; I have an electronics company operating out of Norway, Denmark and the UK; and I own the accounting and management consulting firm TSL. The biggest challenge in Bath at the moment is… getting the key players and authorities to talk to each other so that we can promote the city on the global stage. It’s beginning to happen, but there is still too much silo thinking.

The thing I think Bath does best is… the Christmas Market.

One of the biggest problems we face in Bath is… Airbnb party houses. The unregulated use of domestic properties in this way destroys local communities and damages small hotels and B&Bs. n

www.visitbath.co.uk

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