Bath Life - Issue 375

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

PULTENEY PEOPLE

TRADERS ADDING INDIE FLAIR

PRETTY IN INK

THE METICULOUS WORLD OF BESPOKE STATIONERY

THE GREATEST SHOW CELEBRATING 250 YEARS OF THE CIRCUS

FESTIVE COUNTDOWN AND SO IT BEGINS

ISSUE 375 / 28 SEPTEMBER – 12 OCTOBER 2018 / £3

ISSUE 375 / 28 SEPTEMBER – 12 OCTOBER 2018 / AUTUMN DELIGHTS

GO WILD FOR AUTUMN INTERIORS

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: House of Hackney

style at Rossiters of Bath; BELOW: Objet d’art at Woodhouse & Law

W

hile we’re sad to see the sunshine fade, a new season signals a host of fresh homeware collections and trends to be excited about.

Whether you’re looking for a jazzy new sofa, the latest wild wallpapers to wow (like the one on our front cover, for example), or some conversation-starting accessories, here, we welcome you to our autumn interiors issue. From page 36, you’ll find local interior experts’ favourite patterns, prints, pieces and projects that we think will inspire; and, on page 35, our homeware-obsessed columnist Philippa May chats sustainable and ethical shopping for the home.

Not to alarm you, but Christmas is coming, so, also in this issue, we share with you our favourite festive spots in which to feast, dance and party (page 114); and, if you fancy a laugh, our columnist Flats recalls the merry mayhem of carnage-filled Christmas party memories from a career in sport (page 33).

There’s much more besides in this bumper 188-page beast this week, including a focus on the Pulteney area of Bath (page 142), a celebration of 250 years of the pervasive, popular, born-in-Britain art form that is the circus (page 138), as well as our regular What’s On, news, and foodie pages for you to delve into.

Enjoy!

LISA EVANS Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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

Issue 375 / 28 September – 12 October 2018 COVER House of Hackney wallpaper, available at Rossiters of Bath, see page 36 for more

THE ARTS

79 ARTS INTRO Celebrating Bath artist Adela Breton

at Victoria Art Gallery

80 WHAT’S ON The essential roundup of art, music,

theatre and more

92 THE BIG INTERVIEW Meet Athena Cauley-Yu,

the brainchild behind Meticulous Ink

101 BOOKS Ahead of the Bath Children’s Literature

© JESPER MAT TIAS

Festival, celebrate the magical storytelling of children’s literature with Nic Bottomley 103 THEATRE Anna O’Callaghan looks back at the canon of thesps that have treaded the boards in Bath

FOOD&DRINK

92

104

104 RESTAURANT A Thai feast to excite the senses 107 TAKE 5 Meet the man behind Bath-based catering

company Wild Fork West

108 FOOD & DRINK NEWS All the top gastro stories

from Bath

114 CHRISTMAS PARTIES The low-down on where to

go for festive fun this Christmas

SHOPPING

138 EDITOR’S CHOICE Cushions, sculptures, juggling

balls and more – gorgeous circus-inspired items

142 STREET LIFE What links Russell Crowe, Jane

Austen and Cher? Bath’s Pulteney quarter, of course

142

138

© OLIVER JORDAN

114

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

Issue 375 / 28 September – 12 October 2018

LIFESTYLE

35 inside story Philippa May talks sustainable and

ethical shopping for the home

186 lives chief executive of Bath Festivals, Ian Stockley,

chats memorable moments, hidden skills and his favourite view of Bath

Business

155 business insider The movers and shakers in

Bath’s business world

Property

36 INTERIORS What is trending in the world of

interiors? Local experts reveal all

171 showcase Delve inside this charming Bradford on

departments 15 spotlight 24 society 33 a man’s world

155

171

186 Editor Lisa Evans lisa.evans@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@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, Matt Bielby, Nic Bottomley, Philippa May and Anna O’Callaghan 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 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

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

© Pete Helme Photogr aphy

Avon haven

TRY SOMETHING NEW AND EXCITING THIS CHRISTMAS

Please contact bathevents@cnty.com for all private hire and package enquiries Saw Close Bath BA1 1EY 01225 308 990 Know your limits! For more information go to: BeGambleAware.org – DrinkAware.co.uk

www.cnty.com/bath Come for the Action, Stay for the Fun!

SPOTLIGHT Shopping

ON THE CARDS

The luxurious Spa Village

HOTEL

SPA-CATUCLAR The Gainsborough Bath Spa has been awarded no less than three prestigious placings in the 21st Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Travel Awards – being named named the second best UK Hotel Spa. The five-star Bath hotel, YTL Hotels’ first to open in the UK, was also placed ninth in the Top UK Holiday Hotels, and was included in The World’s Top 100.

The annual Readers’ Travel Awards ranks the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, airlines and cruise lines in the world. The longest running of its kind, the awards are one of the most prestigious recognitions of excellence in the travel industry and are commonly known as, “the best of the best of travel”. With millions of reader submissions and tens of thousands of comments this year, The Awards allow travellers to submit hotel and resort ratings, which are subsequently compiled into a list of winners.

For more: www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

A city centre gift card has recently been introduced in Bath. Launched

by Bath Business Improvement District, the pretty Bath Gift Card can be redeemed at a huge range of outlets across Bath and is an ideal present for someone who is difficult to buy for or even an employee or corporate incentive scheme.

There are more than 180 participating businesses where shoppers can redeem the Bath Gift Card, including clothes shops, restaurants, museums, hair salons, hotels and spas.

Pug & Puffin, Vinegar Hill, Mr Bs Book Emporium, Mallory Jewellers, Green Rocket Café, Saracen’s Head, Vino Vino, Victoria Art Gallery, No. 15 Great Pulteney Street are just a handful of Bath

businesses where you can use your gift card.

Allison Herbert, CEO of Bath BID says,“The Bath Gift Card is a gift that shows you care about the recipient but also care about our city. It is a great alternative to existing national cards and online gifting options.

It represents an important development for both local businesses and the local economy as it can spent in a wide range of participating shops, restaurants, bars, hotels and leisure facilities all within Bath.”

The Bath Gift Card can be purchased online from designated sales points in the city and can be loaded with as little as £10 or as much as £500.

For more: www.bathgiftcard.com

Finn Dean’s illustration of Jane Austen

Bath campaign

CHANGING FACES

Visit Bath has launched a Remarkable Bath campaign with modern illustrations of some of the city’s historic characters.

The specially created artworks depict 10 of the characters that have helped shaped the city into what it is today, and have been designed by illustrator Finn Dean, who studied at Bath Spa University. The cast of images – including Jane Austen, Ralph Allen and the Herschels – reimagine the heritage and history of Bath in a contemporary, colourful and playful way and aim to capture the imagination of new national and international audiences. Other artworks will feature key local landmarks, such as Prior Park.

“All of our new marketing campaigns are focused on positioning Bath as a city steeped in incredible history but at the same time ensuring Bath appeals to a modern audience,” says Craig Jenkins, executive chairman of Visit Bath.

“Bath is a remarkable city to visit all year round, and the autumn months, when the leaves are turning gold and the light is drawing in on the honey-coloured stone, is a particularly beautiful time to come, which is why we are launching this campaign now.”

For more: www.visitbath.co.uk

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

spotlight

Students Sam Willson, Charlotte Kerslake and Jonny Butt volunteered at Bath City FC last season

Volunteering

FOOTBALL HEROES

With the start of the new season well underway, Bath City Football Club is not only welcoming back its loyal fan base but also its band of dedicated volunteers.

As well as the many familiar local faces that volunteer at the club

during home games, a number of university students also give up their time to help matchdays run smoothly. Last season, University of Bath Sport and Social Science student Jonny Butt helped out at Twerton Park.

Jonny, 21, originally decided to volunteer with the Club as part of his course. He says, “I was tasked with finding a short-term placement in Bath relating to an area of sport that I enjoyed. I

instantly contacted Carole at Bath City FC and she gave me a great role as a matchday volunteer.

“It was such an enjoyable experience that I continued to help out until the end of the season – I was grateful that I managed to find the role.

“My favourite thing about Bath City is the strong sense of community at the club. On matchdays everyone is in high spirits and it’s a great set up to

be a part of. It’s also exciting to be at a club that is looking to expand over the next few years.

Bath City FC are still on the lookout for new volunteers to help with operations on matchdays this season as well as a variety of other roles. Anyone who would like more information or wants to get involved should contact the club.

For more: www.bathcityfc.com

Family outings

BOLD AS BRASS

If your kids (or you) are fans of the The Bolds books, then you are in for a treat, as author Julian Clary and illustrator David Roberts are coming to Bath as part of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival. The comedian Julian Clary will be reading from some of his hilarious books, The Bolds, while David will be doing some fantastic live drawing.

“I’m onto my fourth now, The Bolds in Trouble,” says Julian. “They flow out of me, I don’t know where they’re all coming from. It’s delightful; I just have such a lovely time writing them.

Making children laugh is a whole new thing for me, it’s lovely.

“No child pretends to laugh – it’s very genuine.

It’s obviously a world away from my usual filth, but that’s liberating. A whole new world.”

Julian and David will be appearing at Komedia on 7 October.

For more: www.bathfestivals.org.uk

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

Exciting news for fans of the The Bolds

Guests celebrating at Windout Farm

Charity

HOLY COW

Over one hundred guests came together to celebrate Bathbased charity Send a Cow’s 30th anniversary at a special drinks reception. Guests gathered to hear the impact of the charity’s work with farming families in sub-Saharan Africa over the last three decades, and to celebrate the fact that over two million people have been lifted out of poverty.

One of the founding farmers, David Bragg, shared his memories over the years and told guests about the incredible journey that the charity has made. David shared the story of how Send a Cow began with a group of West Country dairy farmers who decided to send some of their cows to rural families in Uganda who were struggling after the country’s civil war, and reflected on how far the organisation had come working in six different countries with a UK office base in Bath. “But it was more than only sending cows,” he says. “It was about building people’s capacity, and building up their confidence”.

For more: www.sendacow.org

THE TALBOT CLINIC The Talbot Clinic is pleased to announce the new partnership between: Mr Toby R Talbot, Restorative Dental Specialist and Mr Serryth Colbert, Oral Maxillo-Facial Plastic Surgeon.

The new partnership of Talbot and Colbert is dedicated to all face and neck procedures.

We offer a comprehensive approach, encompassing a wide range of cosmetic and restorative procedures, surgical as well as nonsurgical. Whether the need is for a beautiful smile, facial rejuvenation or a stronger profile, we are presenting clients with the opportunity to receive specialist treatment in a caring and professional environment. All under one roof. Talbot & Colbert will be offering the following treatments:

NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURES – REJUVENATING COSMETIC TREATMENTS • Wrinkle reducing treatment to restore a fresh and youthful appearance (Botulinum toxin) • Lip and cheek enhancement (Hyaluronic acid) Injectable gel fillers • Rejuvenation of hands and feet (Hyaluronic acid) Injectable gel fillers • Facial rejuvenation and volume loss due to age, lifestyle and weightloss (Hyaluronic acid Injectable gel fillers

COSMETIC SURGICAL PROCEDURES • Facelift (lower, mid and full face lifts) • Browlift • Blepharoplasty (correction of droopy and hooded eyelids, upper and lower) • Cheek implants (loss of volume, facial symmetry) • Chin implants (correction of shape and profile) • Rhinoplasty (correcting size, shape and function) • Necklift (correction of neck banding and excessive skin) • Removal of moles and skintags • Scar removal (unsightly birthmarks, scars and blemishes)

RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY PROCEDURES • Endodontics (treating infected and/or decaying teeth) • Periodontics (Treating gum disease) • Prosthodontics (Replacement of missing teeth), Dentures, bridgework or implant supported prostheses. Fixed or removable.

• Titanium Implants (permanently fixed implants replacing one or more lost teeth) • Porcelain veneers and overlays

RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGICAL PROCEDURES • Surgical intervention and reconstruction due to skin cancer

ORTHODONTICS • Invisalign – Invisible and removable tray based aligner system to correct teeth position and bite Engagement with a client necessitates complete understanding and trust. We undertake a structured consultation encompassing a full medical assessment, whether the need be

cosmetic or restorative in nature. Our services are tailored to each individual client, based on their unique requirements and needs. This approach forms the philosophy that underpins our practice.

Patients first. Always.

MR SERRYTH COLBERT

Consultant Oral Maxillo-Facial Plastic Surgeon

MB BCH BAO, BDS, MSC (Oxon), MFDS (Eng), MRCS (Irl), MRCS (Edin), FRCS (OMFS), FFD (Irl) Serryth qualified in medicine at the National University of Ireland in Galway and straight afterwards he qualified in dentistry at University College Cork in Ireland. He was appointed a NHS Consultant in the Department of Facial Surgery at the Royal United Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in 2015 where he currently serves as Clinical Director.

For consultations with Toby or Serryth please call 01225 426 222 or book online www.talbotcinic.co.uk 24 Emergency Practice. Part of

. Because We Care

The Talbot Clinic, Tasburgh House, Warminster Road, BA2 6SH. Phone 01225 426 222. Company reg. no. 02853023

B Hairdressing is a luxurious cruelty free & gender-neutral salon based in Widcombe the Artisan quarter of Bath City Centre. We ensure everything from the hair colourants we use to our cleaning products are all cruelty free.

Your visit to B will be a little different to most salons. We think outside the lines, from the salon dĂŠcor to the way the B Team look after you. Owner Harriet, is also on the Paul Mitchell Artistic Team, meaning we have up-to-the-minute training on the latest fashions straight off the Catwalk and exclusive to B.

www.bhairdressing.co.uk Call us on 01225 311332 to book a complimentary consultation or appointment

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

All smiles

Two’s company This trio enjoying drinks on the terrace

Holly Markham, Jon Rolfe and Lauren Prince

Dale Hattey, Charley Springall and Wayne Palmer

Amy Williams MBE and Craig Ham

SUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

There was a heavenly aroma in the air as The Ivy Bath Brasserie celebrated its first birthday and Jo Malone’s launched its new scent, Honeysuckle & Davana. Guests were treated to a beautiful floral archway display and delicious honeysuckle Daquiris, fittingly topped with edible flowers.

Among the party-goers on the “hidden terrace” were Olympic Champion Amy Williams MBE and English Rugby Union and Bath Rugby player Freddie Burns.

The Ivy Bath Brasserie’s General Manager, Katja Kammerer says, “We’re excited to be celebrating our first birthday with Jo Malone London by offering the unique Honeysuckle Daiquiri cocktail and floral display. The team and I are excited for guests to experience our beautiful installation, and the next six weeks will be dedicated to our first birthday in Bath.”

Photos by Paolo Ferla

Kelly Wells, Ben Wells, David Trick, Piers de Lukács Lessner

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

Nickie Portman, James Portman and Kiana Portman

Freddie Burns and James Portman

E N H A N C E M E D I S P A

A n i n d e p e n d e n t M e d i s pa i n t h e h e a r t o f B at h o f f e r i n g b o t h A e s t h e t i c a n d B e a u t y t r e at m e n t s

Photography by Pete Helme

Lower Ground Suite, 3 Miles's Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2QS info@enhancemedispa.co.uk | 01225 422851 | www.enhancemedispa.co.uk Open Monday to Saturday. By appointment only

SOCIETY

Lucy Holubova and Molly Cropper

Jane Hobbs

Nicky Hancock and Sarah Baker

STYLE IT OUT

Style-conscious Bathonians were treated to a fashion show from Clothing brand Oska, who presented their autumn/winter collection. An exclusive collection of scarves – each handpainted and unique – was presented by noted Bath artist Carole Waller. Elsewhere in the fashion show, neutral grey tones featured heavily, as did a range of luxurious materials including crepe, velvet and silk. Guests marvelled at the outfits while they enjoyed prosecco and canapés.

Photos by Paolo Ferla

Nelle Holder, Carole Waller and Barbara Walker

Carole Waller, Trish Mason and Gary Wood

Guests shopping happy Ann George

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

Clare Furlonger, Hilary Furlonger and Janet Furlonger Trish Mason

Lucy Holubova

SOCIETY

Katie Young, Laurience Gerthoffer-Ham and Isabella Woods

Kay Durham and Megan Dickerson

Matt Gray and Mary Stringer

WONDER WOMEN

The Gainsborough Bath Spa hosted their fourth Phenomenal Women Workshop, which featured an illuminating talk from MD of icon Films – Laura Marshall. Laura spoke about how she got into film, and how she developed one of the top independent production companies in the UK. Afterwards, Mhairi Threlfall, senior enterprise consultant at UWE Bristol Career Service gave some invaluable advice on how to develop your career path and how to get the job you want.

Post talks, much mingling was to be had, as guests at the event enjoyed a selection of sparkling drinks and canapés.

Photos by Harriet Noble

Harriet Shortt and Ann Nas

Hannah Edmondson and Louise Gascoigne

Tracey Gait, Tara Davies, Deborah Sheldon, Dawn Webber and Paulette Fuidge

Rachel Brody, Rebecca Townsend, Rachel Goodman and Emily Hocking Jane Chapman and Janet Dabbs

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

Mhairi Threlfall and Laura Marshall

Hilary Bufton and Susan Hamer

SOCIETY

James Iveson and Robert Winkman

Property heads mingling

HOT PROPERTY

Clarisse Grelet

George Ferguson and Greg Ingham

The great and the good of the property sector came together for the launch of the Bath Property Awards, held at Apex City of Bath Hotel, on James Street West.

The list of independent judges were announced and the breakfast celebrations kicked off with an assortment of hot pastries, fresh juice and tea and coffee.

Charlie Taylor and Michael Blowers

Photos by Roy Newport

VINTAGE IS BEST

The National Vintage Games, the UK’s first competitive and recreational sports event for the over-50s, returned to the University of Bath Sports Training Village for a day of action-packed sport and games.

This year’s event was even bigger and better with the inclusion of new team events – like walking rugby and walking netball – alongside returning sports walking football, athletics, swimming, tennis and badminton.

Photos by Tim Woolf

Rocking the stylish and sporty look

A celebratory team Hip-hip hurrah

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

Netballers giving it their all

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Merry mayhem

© TAKING PICTURES

Yes, Flats really is talking about Christmas already. Here he looks back on his carnagefilled festive memories from a career in sport

“Christmas parties form some of my most uncomfortable memories”

I

don’t want to be that guy who, because he mistakenly thinks it’s cool, discusses some very poor behaviour from a long time ago as if it’s something worth bragging about. However, we mustn’t try to pretend that any imperfect experiences that occurred before we became so perfect as we are today never even happened. They happened, and we must learn from them. Naturally, there are certain memories that the human brain does its best to secrete in its darkest, most seldom-accessed cubby hole, but for every forgotten episode there is a trigger that brings it involuntarily right back to life and which can cause one to cringe on the spot.

Such a trigger was supplied, this week, by our lovely editor, Lisa. Lisa doesn’t often bother telling me what the themes of the upcoming magazine are, as I tend to ignore them anyway and write about barbecues and sweating on holiday. This time, though, one of the themes was so absurd that she clearly felt the need to mention it: Christmas parties. I mean, really?

It’s about four years till Christmas, but, seeing as we all clearly want to Americanise ourselves as rapidly and absolutely as we can, why not just stick the tree up now?

Anyway, Christmas parties form some of my clearest and most uncomfortable memories from a career in sport. It’s worth remembering that the current crop, with their visible abdominals and beveined biceps, do not behave like we used to back when social media wasn’t a thing. These events were the biggest parties we had all season, so we went large. In the main, you can imagine the carnage, but there was one memory in particular which makes me twitch to this day. The fact that it was to be the last one we ever had tells you a lot.

We would celebrate the birth of Christ in the big corporate suite at The Rec, and we would get there nice and early, not wanting to waste a minute. On arrival, walking

across the pitch itself, we were told to kneel – all of us, partners and staff included – in the dead ball area and take into our mouths a plastic funnel, the top end of which was being held by a fellow player two storeys up. Into said funnel they would pour a generous serving of ‘special punch’ to get one going. It was actually quite tasty, but the fact that it hit your mouth – with gravity its aide – at about 50 miles per hour made it quite the challenge.

From there, the night went downhill. A hundred pizzas were delivered in a truck around midnight and, much like dropping a bag of biscuits into a communal dog pound, this ended in a Wild West-style bar brawl, as the coaches’ wives watched on. What they must have thought…

Most of that night’s happenings must remain private, of course.

The police came (twice, actually), but they found no trouble, just a particular version of festive cheer.

Only one ambulance was needed, and that was just for a stubbed toe, so that was good. But it was feral, and it was too much. The next morning, the injured played who’d kept himself busy by organising said extravaganza was called to an emergency meeting with the management. Asked to explain himself, his reply made him a legend in our neanderthal eyes, “Well,” he said, “the phrase ‘best Christmas party ever’ has been bandied about.

What do you lot reckon?”

He didn’t play much for Bath after that, and we never had another ‘proper’ party. It was over the top and it was silly, but nobody got hurt (rugby players are actually rubbish at fighting) and we laugh about it still. So when you or your boss start discussing venues for your big party, consider The Rec, and consider a ‘Funnel of Doom’ on arrival. You’ll only do it once, but you’ll never forget it.

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 33

inside story philippa may

eco interiors This week, Philippa May talks sustainable and ethical shopping for the home

T

his year more than ever, it feels like there’s been an amazing shift in environmental attitude in consumerism, not just across the country but specifically in Bath. There’s been an increased effort to cut down on rubbish, recycle more, and, for the past few years, we’ve even turned to composting (and if you’ve walked through Bath’s incredible community allotments, you can see the fruit, literally, of all that labour, which is a real joy).

As we look to renovate a new house, the first thing on my agenda is its sustainability.

This might sound mad, but it’s a new way of future-proofing your investment as well as your interiors, especially as most interior trends, like so much of popular culture, begin to reflect wider global issues.

A very deep start, I know… but making a conscious effort to support products or artisans that

“As we look to renovate a house, the first thing on my agenda is its sustainability”

are keen to recycle or re-use is a shift that can not only reduce your own personal costs but also the wider environmental cost.

The first thing I’m beginning to realise is that if you want to buy more ethically, you have to think of the wider use of your interiors, which means cutting out the ‘fast furniture’ – that inevitably doesn’t last very long and you know you’ll end up having to ditch once it falls apart in a few seasons – and save the money instead to invest in pieces that are designed and made to last a lifetime. The more expensive lifetime furniture can be hard to come by on the high street, which makes it all the more exciting. Do your research and find a local craftsman (or craftswoman) that specialises in the type of furniture you’re looking for; not only will you get a personal design tailored to your desires, but you’ll probably have an added attachment because you’ve met the maker, discovered a new story and supported your local community, which means you’ll be taking it wherever you move and taking that story with you.

If you’re just shopping around and want some inspiration, antiquing or repurposing old furniture can also help to reduce the waste caused by buying brand new and is another channel for collecting special pieces. Walcot

street and London Road are full of shops that cater just for this – from Verve to Mebyl, or, my personal favourite, The Fig Store where there’s always a hidden delight to be discovered.

Alongside antique chests, sustainable fabrics – from wormfree silk to ethical, organic cottons – are gaining popularity as people become increasingly aware of how, where and by whom their wares are being made or sourced.

Maybe you could even commision a statement piece yourself with Walcot Upholstery, safe in the knowledge that the company have been perfecting their craft for the past three decades, so you’re guaranteed a stand-out conversation-starting showstopper for your home.

So the next time you go shopping for interiors, treat it like your plastic-free grocery run. Look for the local world, discover artisan traders and market stalls that flood our unique Bath community, or take a walk and find the independents wherever you can, because you’re guaranteed a friendly chat and a worthy buy.

Philippa May is an interiors enthusiast and the designer and head of brand for the Bath-based loungewear label Laze Wear. Follow her on Instagram @_philippamay_ www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 35

a trend indeed From botanical beauty to sunset shades and mono luxe, here are the trends that Bath’s interior designers are inspired by for the colder season

T

here’s no avoiding interior trends.

Whether you live by them or feel totally unaffected, everything designed for our homes is determined by a wider influence. Read on to discover what themes are catching local experts’ eyes for the season ahead.

Go totally tropical with bold, botanical wallpapers, like this Cole & Son one from Rossiters of Bath

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

INTERIORS 1

BEAUTIFULLY BOTANICAL

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Detailed and graceful, this autumn’s botanical designs feature lush leaves, pretty petals and an abundance of life. As far as John Law, director at Woodhouse & Law on Bathwick Hill, is concerned, all shades of green – from jade and turquoise to teal and forest green – are key this season.

Ann-Marie James, director at lifestyle store Rossiters of Bath on Broad Street adds, “Prints are fabulously adventurous, and range from classical tropical greenery to dark florals with an injection of bright colours. Without a doubt, my favourites are the prints from the latest collection from House of Hackney. The impact they deliver is immense.”

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Cabinet, £1,250, Scout & Boo, Bradford on Avon; www.scoutandboo.co.uk 2. Lamp, £305, Rossiters of Bath, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 3. Cushion, £59, Verve, Bath; www.verveliving.uk 4. Matthew Williamson wallpaper, from £60, Rossiters of Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 5. Vase, £19.99, Vinegar Hill, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk 6. Bowl, £137, Woodhouse & Law, Bath; www. woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 7. Jar, £65, Rossiters of Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 8. Sofa, from £2,595, Graham & Green, Bath; www. grahamandgreen.co.uk

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INTERIORS 2

MODERN NEUTRALS

With the emphasis on natural-looking furniture and finishes, the back-to-basics neutral trend will never die.

“I love the minimalistic Scandinavian style, mainly achieved in the kitchen with an all-white palette,” says Vicky Elmore, design director at Elmore Kitchens on Saracen Street, Bath.

“Light reflects off walls and units to give the illusion of a larger space.”

Vanessa Garrett, founding director at Broadleaf Timber on Walcot Street, says that, as far as wood floors are concerned, whites and greys remain very much on trend, underpinning a broader move towards calm interiors that combine simple, contemporary furnishings and textiles with natural materials and rustic textures.

Natural linen has always been a favourite of Giselle Mannering, head of interior design OKA on Milsom Street, Bath, “This material on staples such as cushions and lampshades make it easy to change your scheme from season to season. Also, reclaimed wood adds plenty of character, while merging easily with both modern and traditional schemes.”

“We believe in keeping more permanent elements, such as kitchen units, fairly neutral,” adds Ben Argent of Ben Argent Kitchens in West Littleton. “We like to focus on the layout, material finishes and subtle use of texture in order to transform kitchens into functional, inspiring and truly individual spaces.”

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Lampshade, £70, OKA, Bath; www.oka.com 2. Mirror, £80, Verve, Bath; www.verveliving.uk 3. Throw, £195, OKA, Bath; www.oka.com 4. Sofa, £1,595, OKA, Bath; www.oka.com 5. Kitchen design, from £30,000, Ben Argent Kitchens, Bath; www.benargentkitchens.co.uk 6. Magazine rack, £149, Charlie Caffyn, Bradford on Avon; www.charliecaffynfurniture.co.uk 7. Napkins, £19.95 for two, Homefront Interiors, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

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

1

SUNSET SHADES

Warming, earthy tones make for the classic autumnal palette. Mitchell Thomas, commercial director at Bath’s oldest joinery company, Hawker Joinery, says these rich orange and red shades, found in the turning of the leaves, complement the dark richness of walnut timber perfectly, with the grain pattern in walnut also making it a statement piece in itself.

Ann-Marie at Rossiters says burnt orange and mustard yellow are being used to great effect as accent colours at the moment, with the new-season shades creating a fresh and uplifting look. And John at Woodhouse & Law has noticed a resurgence in rusty reds and cosy ochres, and a decrease (finally) in grey in general.

Herringbone oak floors brushed with coloured oils and stain treatments are popular at Tile and Flooring Bath, on London Road, and it’s all about muted edible tones, such as pecan, spice and honey, for Vanessa Sayce, the owner of The Marmalade House, based in Kelston. “We see ourselves as colourists, specialising in the field of furniture-painting and interiors,” she says. “There is often fear or reluctance to use colour to its full potential; our aim is to bring back confidence.”

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1. Kitchen transformation, from £15,000, Elmore Kitchens, Bath; www.elmorekitchens.com 2. Artwork, £950, ART Salon, Bath; www.artsalon.co.uk 3. Cushions, from £38, Previous Homewares, Corsham; www. previoushomewares.co.uk 4. Dish, £16, Leak, Larkhall, Bath 5. Lantern, £19.50, Kurtztextiles, Bitton; www.kurtztextiles.etsy.com 6. Chair, £695, Graham & Green, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 7. Sofa, £949, Silcox Son & Wicks, Bath; www.silcox.co.uk 8. Plant pot, £11, Hay, Bath; www.hay.dk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39

1

MOODY MOMENT

2

Deep, dark, rich hues are creating dramatic, intense looks. It’s all about the inky, sapphire and navy shades, which accompany a rainbow of jewel colours, as well as sharp pinks and oranges, according to Ann-Marie at Rossiters.

Lara Willmore, design consultant at Dible and Roy in Bradford on Avon is currently loving the return of heavy block colours paired with gentle lighting. And Susan Coleman, interior designer at Perfect Rooms in Gastard finds herself drawn to warm browns, deep teal and dark blues.

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

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1. Bespoke bar, POA, Woodhouse & Law, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 2. Chest, £1,150, Graham & Green, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 3. A Tile and Flooring design, Bath; www.tileandflooring.co.uk 4. Tile, from £61.95, Bathrooms at No 5, Bradford on Avon; www. bathbathrooms.com 5. Candle, £28, Found, Bath; www. foundbath.co.uk 6. Chair, £595, Graham & Green, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

INTERIORS 1

HEAVY METAL

From blackened iron to rose gold, metallic shades are key right now. “We love our antique coppers and bronze finishes,” says Harry Clarke, director at Corsham’s Anka Metal Coatings, which uses liquid metal technology to create bespoke interior and exterior finishes.

“They are smooth and have a warmth about them. We portray ourselves as artists due to the bespoke nature of our finishes, as they are all hand-applied.”

“Flashes of burnished gold or dark copper give a touch of richness and decadence,” says Vanessa at The Marmalade House. “We work with gilding waxes and gold, silver and copper leaf to add edges of shine to our furniture.”

At The Looking Glass of Bath, which specialises in designing and making bespoke mirrors, solid metals are often the go-to. “At the moment, we’re using raw brass, blackened iron, polished bronze, and copper the most,” says director and designer Anthony Reed, whose shop sits on Walcot Street, Bath.

In the kitchen, smoked bronze is particularly popular, according to Ben Argent; and, in the bathroom, accessories – such as taps and handles – are in glistening gold and brass, says Lois Griffin, designer at Bathrooms at No.5 on Trim Street, Bath.

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1. Brass light, £440, Felix Lighting Specialists, Bath; www. felixlightingspecialists.co.uk 2. Object meteor, £350 for set of three, Woodhouse & Law, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 3. Tap, £1,005, Bathrooms at No 5, Bradford on Avon; www.bathbathrooms.com 4. Bottle opener, £16.95, Homefront Interiors, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 5. Metal surface finish, POA, Anka Metal Coatings, Corsham; www. ankametalcoatings.co.uk 6. Chinoiserie wallpaper, from £674, Etons of Bath; www.etonsofbath.com 7. Box, £340, Woodhouse & Law, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

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interiors

Plum Blossom wallpaper, from ÂŁ716, Etons of Bath; www.etonsofbath.com

42 I bath LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ICE CREAM DREAMS

Easy-on-the-eye pastels are simple to apply to our homes. Rose pink and blush tones are influencing Sarah Latham, creative director at Walcot Street’s Etons of Bath – an interior design practice focused on restoring Georgian buildings. When paired with warm brass and gold, the pretty pastel hues makes for a soft, modern style with attitude.

For those who like a bit of fun, try candy pinks together with concrete, copper and marble, says Lois at Bathrooms at No.5; or make a quiet statement with a muted, washed-out wallpaper, suggests Vanessa at The Marmalade House.

Pale blues and mint greens are having a real moment where the bathroom is concerned, says Kim Marcer, owner of Ripples bathroom retailer on London Road. “While you might think the trend is about pops of colour, the subtle nature of these shades make them much more workable in the bathroom. Combine them for an effortless and relaxing vibe.”

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1. Marbled paper, from £10, Inq, Bath; www.inqstudio.co.uk 2. Pot, £22, Hay, Bath; www.hay.dk 3. Calidris collection, POA, Ripples, Bath; www. ripplesbathrooms.com 4. Basin, £574, Bathrooms at No 5, Bradford on Avon; www. bathbathrooms.com 5. Wall tiles, £89.95 sqm, floor tiles, £224.95 sqm, Tile and Flooring, Bath; www. tileandflooring.co.uk 6. Wooden trivet, £27, Found, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk 7. Cushion, £75, Homefront Interiors, Bath; www. homefrontinteriors.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

INTERIORS CREATURE FEATURES

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Animal print – especially of the big cat variety, as seen on our front cover – is clawing its way to the top of the interior trend of the year, but it can be tricky to get right. Team it with toffee colours and go gentle, with maybe just a cushion or lamp as a nod to the style, if whole walls of colour feel too risky.

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1 & 6. House of Hackney wallpapers, from £185, Rossiters of Bath, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 2. Cushion, £48, Previous Homewares, Corsham; www.previoushomewares.co.uk 3. Floor cushion, £299, OKA, Bath; www.oka.com 4. Print, from £45, Graham & Green, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 5. Jug, £25, Vinegar Hill, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk 7. Tray, £22, Avenida Home, Bath; www.avenidahome.com 8. Plate, £14, Anthropologie, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

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Channel your inner fierce with Cole & Son’s Leopard Walk wallpaper, available at Rossiters of Bath

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

Turn to the dark side with a glamorous all-black bathroom. We’re fans of this Elm concrete basin, £2,688, from Ripples, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com

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

INTERIORS BACK TO BLACK

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It takes quite a bit of creativity to make an interesting scheme when colour is absent.

“Bathrooms are awash with black accents,” says Kim at Ripples. “Trade in your chrome tap for a chic matt black mixer, take the plunge with a shower door with black accents, and add furniture with black legs to really stand out against neutral tiles.”

“There can be a lot of glamour in a monochrome theme,” agrees Lois at Bathrooms at No.5. “Team blacks and whites with marble and metal for a spectacular look.”

Jazz it up further with a strong geometric or mural-effect pattern choice, advises Matthew Weaver at Tile and Flooring, as it’s ideal for colour-haters who still like to make an explosive statement.

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SHOPPING LIST

1. Lantern, £907, Woodhouse & Law, Bath; www. woodhouseandlaw.co.uk 2. Pillar tap, £2,402, Bathrooms at No 5, Bradford on Avon; www.bathbathrooms.com 3. Wall hanging, £32, Ellie Mawby, Bath; www.elliemawby.etsy.com 4. Sideboard, £1,750, Scout & Boo, Bradford on Avon; www. scoutandboo.co.uk 5. Oak flooring, £80 sqm, Broadleaf, Bath; www. broadleaftimber.com 6. Tile, £7.50 each, Ripples, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 7. Footstool, £225, Rossiters of Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 8. Table, £595, Verve, Bath; www.verveliving.uk

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interiors

Interiors directory

Ben Argent Kitchens

Architects, builders, construction and property services Aqua Fortis

01225 285 500 www.roofersbath.com Roofing solutions Artistic Plastercrafts

www.artisticplastercraft.co.uk 01225 315404 Three generations of ornamental plastering experts, formed in 1985 Banisters of Bath

www.banistersofbath.com 01225 663029 Conservation and restoration of wooden bannisters and panelling chCarpentry

01225 447165 www.esmondmurrayarchitects. com. Award-winning Chartered RIBA Practice formed in 1991 with a new approach to private client residential design, bringing together architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and project management

Sovereign Damp Proofing

Hawker Joinery

Bathrooms

North End, Batheaston, Bath 01225 858233 www.hawker-joinery.co.uk The oldest established joinery business in Bath, with a reputation for quality service and workmanship.

Specialising in doors, interiors and cabinetry

Unit 8, Stockwood Farm, Pylle, near Shepton Mallet 07703976707 www.chcarpentry.net Quality carpentry and joinery to the South West

The Home Service

CDAB Design and Build

01249 814204 www.mardenroofing.co.uk Roofing services

7 Paul Street, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5LD 03301 233326/07483 165577 Design and build contractors Esmond Murray Architects

21 Van Diemen’s Lane, Bath

Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for autumn

01225 685111 www.thehomeservice.co.uk Home moves, home service and project management Marden Roofing

Prior and Company

www.priorandcompany.com 01249 782898 Building works and renovations

01249 716161 www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Comprehensive service for all kinds of damp-proofing Youngs Roofing

01225 421499 www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk Roofing services and contractor Bathrooms at No 5

12a Trim Street, Bath 5 The Shambles, Bradford on Avon; 01225 309110 www.bathbathrooms.com Specialists in the supply of bathrooms in Bath and the surrounding areas Corinium Bath Renovations

56 Berry Hill Crescent, Cirencester; 01285 658615; www.coriniumbathrenovations. co.uk Original bath restoration and renovation Ripples

Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; 01225 447971 www.ripples.ltd.uk Creators of awardwinning luxury designer bathrooms for decades

Courses and workshops

The Marmalade House

The Loft, 1-2 Bartlett Street, Bath; 01225 445855 www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk Learn how to paint furniture at their popular Annie Sloan courses

Curtains, blinds, shutters and soft furnishings Aspect Window Styling

1 Saracen Street, Bath 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk Blinds, shutters, awnings, curtains, poles and accessories The Curtain Exchange

11 Widcombe Parade, Bath 01225 422078 www.thecurtainexchange.co.uk A wide range of bespoke and ready-made curtains and blinds Fabric & Flair

10 St Martin’s Park, Marshfield, Chippenham 01225 891844 www.fabricandflair.co.uk Making and fitting beautiful curtains, blinds and accessories for over 20 years Shuttercraft Somerset

01749 649171

interiors www.shuttercraft.co.uk Stylish and comprehensive range of shutters and blinds

Fireplaces and Woodburners

Mendip Fireplaces ( Bath )

The Old Mill, Mill Lane, Monkton Combe, Bath; 01225 722706 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Fireplace, stove and chimney specialists with an extensive range of open fires, wood-burning and gas stoves, cookers and fire surrounds

Flooring and carpets Bath Contract Flooring

4 Kingsmead Square, Bath 01225 471888 www.bathcontractflooring.co.uk Specialists in flooring Boniti

Dunsdon Road, West Littleton Road, Chippenham; 01225 89200 www.boniti.com Stone flooring, bespoke furniture and custom kitchens Broadleaf Timber

134-136 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 463464 www.broadleaftimber.com Solid wooden floors, plank and parquet, oak flooring, made-tomeasure internal and external oak doors, staircases and joinery BSB Flooring

Avro Way, Bowerhill, Melksham 01225 704414 www.bsbflooring.co.uk Wide range of carpets and vinyl and laminate flooring Capitol Carpets of Bath

120-122 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 333341 www.thecarpet.co.uk A range of affordable carpet and stone flooring Frith Rugs

Unit 10, Shield Retail Park Filton, Bristol; 01745 584404 www.frithrugs.co.uk Largest selection of Oriental carpets and rugs in the UK Haliden Oriental Carpets

98 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 469240; www.haliden.com Antique oriental carpets, Persian rugs, tribal weavings and antique turkmen carpets

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

Interior Harmony Flooring

5A Chelsea Road, Bath 01225 483818 www.interiorharmony.co.uk Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation Mandarin Stone

15-16 Broad Street, Bath 01225 460033 www.mandarinstone.com Central Bath showroom for natural stone tiles, flooring and stone bathware Oriental Rugs of Bath

1 Hallatrow Business Park Wells Road, Hallatrow 01761 451764 www.orientalrugsofbath.com Rugs, kilims and various pieces of furniture Tile & Flooring Bath

1 Mile End, London Road West Bath; 01225 310561 www.tileandflooring.co.uk Family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration of flooring from a selection of hundreds of different styles and materials

Furniture, interiors and homeware shops The Bath Framer

7 Walcot Buildings, London Road Bath; 01225 920210 www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk High-quality framing services Dible & Roy

Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon 01225 862320 www.dibleandroy.co.uk Fabrics, flooring and furniture at their two-storey showroom The Framing Workshop

80 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com Box framing, glass and perspex boxes, hand-finished and gilded frames and more Graham and Green

92 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 418300 www.grahamandgreen.co.uk Exceptional range of furniture and home accessories in a global, glamorous, individual and life-enhancing style

House of Hackney wallpaper, available at Rossiters of Bath

Homefront Interiors

10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath 01225 571711 www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk New, vintage finds, handmade, sustainable, reclaimed and recycled homewares and decorative interiors pieces and gifts

Previous Homewares

54 High St, Corsham SN13 0HF 01249 712367 www.previoushomewares.co.uk Stylish and eclectic vintage furniture and homewares Rossiters

Beanacre Park, Melksham 0845 0508240; www.leekes.co.uk Quality furniture, electricals, home accessories and more

38-41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com Offering quality furniture, accessories, fabrics, plus an interior design service

Looking Glass of Bath

Silcox Son & Wicks

Leekes

www.lookinglassofbath.co.uk 01225 461969 93 - 95 Walcot Street, Bath All mirrors are made in workshop to bespoke sizes and finishes Neptune

One Tram Yard, Walcot Street, Bath www.neptune.com; 01225 465301 Wide range of sofas and armchairs, kitchens, decorations and home accessories Oka

26 -27 Milsom Street, Bath 01225 443074; www.okadirect.com A 4,000 square foot interiors haven in the heart of Bath Perfect Rooms, Interiors and Upholstery

Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham 01249 716455 www.perfectrooms.co.uk Fabrics, carpets, wallpaper, furniture, homeware and gifts

5-7 New Bath Street, Bath; 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk Eclectic collection of furnishing gems to suit a range of tastes Verve Living

15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath; 07785 332536; www.verveliving.uk An interiors space that fosters creativity and craftsmanship, combining hands-on styling and sourcing services with furniture, artworks and homewares, all sourced and created in Britain

Furniture Makers Anka Metal Coatings

European House, Leafield Ind Estate, Corsham; 01761 433857 www.ankametalcoatings.co.uk Specialists in leading liquid metal coating technologies to create a wide range of creative interior and furniture finishes

interiors Bath Furniture Makers

Unit 5, Wansdyke Workshops, Wellow Lane, Peasedown St John, Bath 01761 433857 www.bathfurnituremakers.co.uk/ Fitted and free standing furniture, libraries with secret doors, joinery and wood turning

Home entertainment Moss of Bath

45 St James’s Parade, Bath 01225 331441 www.mossofbath.co.uk Independent home entertainment retailer and solution provider

Interior design

Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd

Walcot Studio, Old Orchard 88a Walcot Street, Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311 www.clairstrong.co.uk Innovative design for commercial and residential settings both large and small Etons of Bath

108 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 639002 www.etonsofbath.com New showroom offering full range of interior design services No. Twelve Queen Street

12 Queen Street, Bath 01225 462363 www.twelvedesign.co.uk Truly personal design service focusing on private residential, hotel and commercial work Woodhouse & Law

4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill Bath; 01225 428072 www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk Full interior design service; will advise on and source fabrics, furniture, bathrooms and kitchens

Kitchens

The Bath Kitchen Company

7-9 North Parade Buildings Bath; 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk Family business designing unique, beautiful and functional kitchens for over 20 years Ben Argent Design

01225 448330 www.benargentdesign.com Beautiful bespoke kitchens designed to inspire

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

Get the look at Woodhouse & Law

Devizes Fine Kitchens

Lighting

Elmore Kitchens

Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 310795; www.antiquesofbath.com Antique shop specialising in period textiles, embroideries, quilts, antique lighting and chandeliers

11 – 12 Northgate Street, Devizes 01380 721772; www.devizesfinekitchens.com Dedicated to the design and production of high quality bespoke kitchens and craft furniture 5 Saracen Street, Bath; 01225 335600; www.elmorekitchens.com Inspirational kitchens and living spaces Kelly Marie Hicks Kitchen Interiors

8 Pulteney Ave, Bath; 01225 481881 www.kellymariekitchens.com Independent luxury kitchen design with over 15 years experience

Antique Textiles and Lighting

Radiators

House of Radiators

22 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 424199 www.houseofradiators.co.uk Retailer of huge range of stylish, designer radiators along with expert installation and maintenance service Reclaimed Radiators

07540 978408 info@reclaimedradiators.co.uk

A comprehensive range of antique cast iron radiators

Worktops, surfaces and doors

Hobbs Marble & Granite

Radstock Road, Midsomer Norton 01761 412934; www. hobbsmarbleandgranite.co.uk Granite, marble, slate, travertine and quartz products The Marble Works of Bath

Locksbrook Yard, Upper Bristol Road, Bath; 01225 780062 www.marbleworksofbath.com Marble and granite consultants, designers and suppliers.

SPECIALISTS IN LUXURY SURFACE FINISHES AND BESPOKE CABINET MAKING Anka Bespoke Furniture are specialists in high-end cabinetry producing one off pieces from console tables to fully fitted kitchens. We specialise in luxury, hand-made furniture where everything is made and produced in-house in our workshop in Corsham. Anka Bespoke furniture runs alongside Anka Metals which produces the most exquisite, luxurious surfaces finishes made from real metal coatings.

For all enquiries, please email Harry Clarke at harry@ankametalcoatings.co.uk or 01225 819132

Nยบ Twelve Queen Street Bath, Somerset BA1 1HE

PERIOD AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN DECORATION AND FURNITURE CAROLE ROBERTS BATH 01225 462363

EMAIL interiors@twelvedesign.co.uk WEB: www.twelvedesign.co.uk

SH OP Coff op ee en DA ILY

SOFT FURNISHING SERVICE Including: Curtains, bespoke bedding, bespoke head boards, Commercial projects. We have our own local curtain making workrooms, and facilities to provide clients with a full design service.

Our suppliers are: Romo, Harlequin, William Yeoward, Sanderson, Casadeco, Wilman, Villa Nova, GP & J Baker, Marvic, Warwick, Blendworth, Anna French, Thaibut, The Real Paintbox Co., Lewis & Wood, James Brindley.

UPHOLSTERY SERVICE If you have a favourite sofa or chair in need of refurbishment, we can also provide an upholstering service.

WE PROVIDE • FREE Measuring Service

• Fabrics and Wallpapers

• Room Design with Mood Boards

• Fitting Service for Poles and Tracks

• CAD Plans and Elevations

• Blinds - Roller Vertical - Skylight

• Lighting, Lamps and Shades

• Carpets and Wood Flooring

• Bespoke Curtains and Blinds

• Upholstery Service

T: 01249 716445 / 01249 714833 E: perfectrooms@btconnect.com W: www.perfectrooms.co.uk

PowerView® – Home Automation for your Shades.

PowerView® uses remote control and mobile app technology to give you precise control over your blinds.

You can now connect PowerView® to other smart home automation systems to unlock the full potential of your home.

01225 469 559 info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk or visit our showroom 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

Fireplace, Stove and Chimney specialists

Visit our showroom to see the range of wood burners, gas fires and surrounds from Chesney’s, Hwam, Barbas Bellfires, Jetmaster, Stovax and Gazco

Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe Mill, Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD Tel. 01225 722706

Email. info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

Would you like to work in Media Sales?

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

OV E R

20,000

STOCK LIN ES IN STORE

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.

KEY CUTTING | ENGRAVING | TOOLHIRE | LAMP RE-WIRE AND REPAIR GIFT IDEAS | DIY AND HOUSEHOLD RENOVATION KITCHENWARE | WOOD CARVINGS | DULUX PAINT MIXING

FREE ON STREET PARKING

4-6 Lambridge Buildings, St Saviours Road, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6RS 01225 313848 | www.langbridge.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Genteel, elegant style in a unique entertaining space

THE CASTLE HOTEL is one of the most renowned 4-star hotels in England. It is also one of Great Britain’s most historic, with origins stretching over 1000 years

N

estled at the top of the hotel is a unique penthouse suite, designed for business meetings and events, intimate weddings and private parties.

Providing both indoor and outdoor seating on the French garden inspired roof terrace, the penthouse provides stunning 360 degree views over Taunton and the surrounding Quantocks and Blackdown Hills.

When refurbishing the suite in 2018, it was decided to decorate the room in a British Colonial style, using plantation shutters to provide an elegant, luxury feel to suit the ambience of this light, airy space.

The shutters also shade the room from the glare of the midday sun and allow ventilation, whilst still allowing stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.

Following a successful project at the owners home, it was decided to select Shuttercraft Somerset to deliver the project. ■

“SIMON AT SHUTTERCRAFT SOMERSET DID A BRILLIANT JOB AT OUR HOME AND I TRUSTED HIM TO DELIVER AN EXCELLENT PRODUCT”

Shuttercraft Somerset provides affordable, luxury style for homes, hotels and business premises across Bath and Somerset.

Contact Simon Moody on 01749 649 171 for a free survey and quotation. www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 61

T H E C U R TA I N E X C H A N G E For the best dressed windows

IN BATH

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

Quality ooring and carpets at competitive prices

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

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

Every picture tells a story. Come and share yours.

80 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BD | Tel: 01225 482748 www.theframingworkshop.com framing@theframingworkshop.com

PERFECT FOR PRESENTS!

We specialise in unusual and well-priced: • Womenswear

• Man-gifts

• Accessories

• Stationary

• Jewellery

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1 5 WA L C O T B U I L D I N G S . L O N D O N R D . B A 1 6 A D

Closed Mon & Thurs. Open Tues, Weds & Fri, Sat, 10.00 - 4.00

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

Adela Breton:Travels with a paintbrush will run until 25 November. For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk

TRAVELS WITH A PAINTBRUSH In 1887, Artist Adela Breton left her home in Bath to travel the world, eager to explore after spending decades nursing her aging parents.

She travelled for most of her life, having inherited her father’s “inherent propensity to travel” and documented her adventures around Europe, the Americas and Japan in a series of watercolours.

One place that she returned to many times was Mexico. Here she became an expert on Mexican archaeology – a subject she had always loved having grown up in Bath with its Roman remains – and travelled on horseback across the country.

After her death, her artwork was donated to the Victoria Art Gallery in Bath. The highlights of the collection will be displayed in this exhibition, documenting the life and travels of an incredible woman.

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

What’s on

© paolo ferl a

29 September -27 October

The Forest of Imagination will excite young minds throughout Bath

exhibitions Until 1 October

JULIA COOPER: NEW PAINTINGS Expect paintings of kitchen still lifes, depicting simple bowls and jugs as a mode of studying juxtaposition of colour.

Mon-Sat 10am-6pm (closed Weds & Sun), David Simon Contemporary; www.davidsimoncontemporary.com

Until 6 October

LYNNE CARTLIDGE RCA: AUTUMN LIGHT Better known for her flower and still life studies, Cartlidge’s new body of work focuses on the quality and pattern of autumnal light in the city.

Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm, Axle Arts; www.axlearts.com

Until 6 October

Volkhardt Müller – THE PLANTATION Multimedia artist Volkhardt Müller is known for his interest in landscape

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

and how it informs our cultural identity. Expect video, mixed media and print in this picturesque and sublime exhibition, which explores the plantation forests of Devon.

Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Black Swan Arts; www.blackswanarts.co.uk

Until 13 October

VISIONS OF SCIENCE Works from UK artists that reflect, represent, capture or depict modernday scientific phenomena, as studied by academics at the University’s faculty of science.

Tues-Sat, 11am-5pm, Andrew Brownsword Gallery, The Edge, University of Bath; www.edgearts.org

Until 21 October

BATH TO BAGHDAD An eclectic collection of art, formed

by Ellen Tanner following her journey to the Middle East in the 1890s, including luxurious textiles, delicate carved woodwork, elaborate metalwork and more, on display for the first time following a major

conservation project.

10am to 5pm, Holburne Museum; www.holburne.org

Until 28 October

SIDE BY SIDE: AMERICA AND WORLD WAR I Marking the 100th anniversary of America’s first major military engagement, this exhibition uncovers the relationship between the US and Europe, reflecting on those who went into battle and those who stayed at home.

10am-5pm, 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, Beckford’s Tower; www.beckfordstower.org.uk

Until 28 October

FACE TO FACE WITH ANGELA CONNER Exhibition of intimate work by celebrated sculptor Angela Conner, promoting Anglo-American understanding. Subjects include the British royal family, actor Sir Laurence Olivier, James Bond writer Ian Fleming, and American president Abraham Lincoln, among others.

10am-5pm, The American Museum; www.americanmuseum.org

Until 30 October

EMMA ROSE – AZURE BLUE Celebrating five years in the Walcot Street Gallery, Emma Rose’s paintings, limited-edition giclée prints and cards will be on full display. A large proportion of her work echos the land, sea, sky and the elements and is a unique mix of Indian inks and acrylics, often using gold, copper and silver leaf.

Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Upstairs at 78 Walcot Street, www.emmaroseartworks.com

what’s on 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.

Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun noon-5pm, £5 adults, £4 seniors, The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

Until 25 November

above: Marc Almond and Jools Holland will be playing at The Forum left: Abraham Lincoln sculpture at The American Museum below: Azure Blue painting by Emma Rose

MAKING ART MATTER Showcasing the graphic works and illustrations of Bath-based artists (also 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.

10.30am-5pm, £4.50 (concs available), Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 25 November

ADELA BRETON: TRAVELS WITH A PAINTBRUSH In 1887, Artist Adela Breton left her home in Bath in to travel the world – this exhibition showcases the best of her art from these adventures.

During her explorations she became an expert on Mexican archaeology and documented her travels around Europe, the Americas and Japan in a series of watercolours.

10.30am-5pm; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.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 1 January 2019

Wonder women of space A free exhibition celebrating the 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 truly inspires them.

1-5pm weekdays, 10am-5pm weekends, various prices, Herschel Museum of Astronomy; www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

10 – 22 October

IMPRESSIONS OF WATER Water is a key feature in the landscapes of both Bath and its twin town Alkmaar (the Netherlands) thus making it the natural choice of theme for this exhibition. The display of prints will showcase the artists’ interpretation of water and will be enhanced by illustrative quotations, in poetry and prose.

Mon-Sat, 10am-4pm. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution; www.bathartistprintmakers.co.uk

11 – 14 October

ATMOSPHERICS: CATHERINE BEALE Award-winning Bath-based painter Catherine Beale’s solo exhibition celebrates the power of modern pigments and dramatic weather over our city. This luminous exhibition also features new portraits from the Society of Women Artists exhibition at London’s Mall Galleries.

10am-6pm, 44AD artspace; www.44ad.net

Plays/Shows 3 – 4 October

PARLOUR GAMES It’s 1848 and Europe is revolting. As foreign royals topple at an alarming rate, how long will it be before the whispers of revolution reach the proud shores of old Blighty? Politics, passion and parlour games are all given the once-over in this crossdressing comedy.

8pm; Various prices; Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

3 October – 3 November

IN PRAISE OF LOVE Robert Lindsay and Tara Fitzgerald star in Terence Rattigan’s last play, a powerful drama about marriage and the hidden truths and veil emotions that lie within it. Set over the course of two evenings, Sebastian and Lydia’s, relationship fundamentally changes forever after searing revelations emerge.

Various times, Ustinov studio; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

4 – 13 October

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE Will Shakespeare has writer’s block…the deadline for his new play – a comedy called Romeo and Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter – is fast approaching and he’s in dire need of inspiration.

Then he meets the beguiling Viola, and mayhem and much falling in love occurs.

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What’s on The play – based on the film which won no less than seven Academy Awards, has been called “The best British comedy since One man, Two Guvnors”.

Various times, Main House, Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Family

Until 30 September

FOREST OF IMAGINATION The city-based arts pop-up connects people to nature with a series of fantastical forests, art trails, street theatre and innovative sculptures.

Each forest will offer a sensory kaleidoscope of playful installations, art trails and workshops – all exploring different aspects of forest life – from the forest floor to the forest canopy.

10am-6pm; Avon Street (the art installations will stretch along this street down to the river) www.forestofimagination.org.uk

30 September

PETER PAN – NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE Join Peter Pan, Wendy, Tinker Bell and the vengeful Captain hook in this recorded performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale about magic and never getting old. Expect joyful music and lots of flying.

2.15pm; £10 (adult)/ £8 (child); Little Cinema; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

6 October

PETER RABBIT & FRIENDS Meet everyone’s favourite furry friend, Peter Rabbit and his sworn enemy, Mr McGregor, for an interactive encounter that promises to be energetic, comic and boisterous. Recommended for 4+ 12pm; £6; Guildhall; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

5 – 7 October

TAKING FLIGHT Taking Flight chronicles the adventures of a young person who goes on an adventurous international journey away from home. Armed with only a backpack of favourite items, the child’s most treasured possessions help in some surprising and creative ways, to overcome many barriers along the way.

Various times & prices; ; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

7 October

HARRY HILL Join the comedy superstar of TV Burp and You’ve Been Framed Harry

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Hill for hilarious, side-splitting fun as he presents his latest children’s book all about Matt Millz – Britain’s youngest comedian.

11am; £8; Komedia; www.bathfestivals.org.uk

13 – 15 October

THE MISSING LIGHT Using pupperty, film and live animation, expect a story that is both moving and technically stunning, weaving together themes of lonliness and friendship.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

19 – 21 October

BUTTERFLIES Join three friends as they embark on an exciting adventure to chase their butterflies away in this uplifting tale of friendship, courage and facing your fears. The production promises a cracking musical score, innovative staging and touching humour.

Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

20 October – 4 November

THE GREAT BRITISH AUTUMN Immerse yourself in all things autumnal with this enchanting event. Activities include pumpkin carving, owl demonstrations, ferret racing, tractor rides and you can even make your own juice with sticky sweet apples.

All day; included with a day ticket; Longleat; www.longleat.co.uk

music 21 October

BOYZLIFE Boyzlife brings together members of two of the biggest boybands in history, (Keith Duffy) Boyzone and (Brian McFadden) Westlife, to perform a whole host of their biggest chart-topping hits.

7pm; prices vary; Komedia www.komedia.co.uk

26 October

JOOLS HOLLAND Expect much gusto as Jools Holland and his 19-piece Rhythm & Blues Orchestra perform toe-tapping classics, with special guests including Soft Cell frontman Marc Almond.

6.30pm doors open, show 7.30pm; various prices; The forum; www.theforum.co.uk

27 October

BATH BACK CHOIR: AFRICAN SANCTUS

above: Butterflies will be showing at children’s theatre the egg left: Funny man Eric Idle at Bath Assembly Rooms below: Taking Flight at the egg theatre

What’s on

Widely acclaimed for its passion, colour, vivacity and raw emotion, African Sanctus interweaves the Latin text of the Mass with traditional African music. The percussion group Backbeat will be conducted by Nigel Perrin.

7.30pm; various prices; Kingswood School; www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

other

29 September

live streaming tedxbath event With a theme of Light up the Future, the TEDxBath comprises a range of talks from 12 eminent speakers on a range of topics relevant to the future of Bath including mental health, social welfare, mobility and the future appearance and character of the city. Free tickets are available for a live stream of the event, at The Guild, within Bath’s Guildhall 1pm-5.30pm; £40 for bath Abbey tickets, free for live screening at The Guild; www.tedxbath.co.uk

5 October

LINGERIE SALE – HEIDI KLUM AND STELLA MCCARTNEY The designer village is hosting their first lingerie warehouse sale, with a huge selection of underwear, swimwear and accessories from designer brands Stella McCartney and Heidi Klum, as well as other lingerie labels, all with discounted prices of up to 80 per cent off.

9.30am-5.30pm Fri-Sat, 10am-5pm Sunday; Kilver Court Designer village, Shepton Mallet; www.kilvercourt.com

6 October

BATH BOOK FAIR The ballroom will be a bookshop for the day as dealers from all over the country bring an enticing range of good-quality second-hand and antiquarian books for sale – keep a look out for a range of Jane Austen books in the bicentennial year.

10.30am-4.30pm; £2; Bath Assembly Rooms; www.oldbookssw.co.uk

11 October

LITTLE WITH EDWARD CAREY Renowned playwright and novelist, Edward Carey will be chatting about his new book Little – a wry, macabre, unforgettable tale of an ambitious orphan in Revolutionary Paris.

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

Tickets include a glass of wine and a book signing.

6.45pm; £6; Mr B’s; www.mrbsemporioum.com

13 October

THE BATH PHOTO AND OPTICS SHOW There will be a range of seminars on all things photography and the experts will be on hand to answer questions and demonstrate the latest technology.

10am-4pm, The Guildhall www.lcegroup.co.uk

13 – 14 October

achieve A unique line-up of celebrity and industry experts will be giving talks on all things health, wealth and happiness. Speakers include Martin Roberts, Greg Wallace, Helen Lederer and Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards.

Brunel’s Old Station, The Passenger Shed, Bristol; www.achieve.co.uk

15 October

ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE WITH ERIC IDLE The holy grail of comedy is coming to Bath as Eric Idle talks “Sortabiogrpaghy.” Expect incredible tales from his days working on Monty Python and stories about rubbing shoulders with the likes of David Bowie, Mick Jagger and Robin Williams.

7pm; £20; Bath Assembly Rooms; www.mrbsemporioum.com

17 and 24 October

EVENING CEMETERY TOURS Beckford’s Tower and Museum have teamed up with the Museum of Bath Architecture for this ‘Building Memory’ exhibition which will entail a tour of the atmospheric cemetery at Beckford’s Tower.

5.30pm; £7; Beckford Tower; www.bescfordtower.org.uk

24 October

CHARITY FASHION SHOW A charity fashion show co-hosted by the young people of Mentoring Plus, raising awareness of significant challenges faced by many of them and the brilliant work of community mentors supporting them.

6.45pm; £8 (£5 students); Boston Tea Party. Tickets at www.tinytailor.com; For more www.mentoringplus.net n

top: The map of delights at Forest of Imagination above: The Missing light at the egg theatre below: Author Michael Carey will be at Mr B’s Emporiam

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Great outdoors

Karen Cordon, Headmistress of St Margaret’s Preparatory School, Calne, believes that the great outdoors has a huge amount to teach her pupils

N

o matter what the weather, pupils of all ages are encouraged to be outside as much as possible, learning, amongst other things, to be resourceful.

Learning should never take place solely within the structures of the indoor classroom, as this can inhibit the way in which children think and react. But take away the restrictions of these more formal teaching spaces and they learn to use their common sense and to think about what the consequences of their actions might be. It is without doubt the case that many children do well once they are outdoors, as they have to think in a different way.

Outdoor learning is vital and is fully embedded into the curriculum at St Margaret’s. It takes many forms, from survival techniques such as learning how to make a fire, cook food and build shelters, to being inspired towards creative writing, growing vegetables and looking at the natural environment.

We plan many outdoor activities throughout the year and these go ahead regardless of the weather. The children and the staff value these experiences, which often facilitate opportunities for the more hesitant learners to shine. This helps to build confidence and selfesteem and teaches children to respect each other’s talents. Being outside also encourages team work and collaboration.

As we began this new school year, I spoke to the children about having a special focus upon developing their common sense. We discussed how we teach and how we learn and that this is very likely to be different outside of the classroom. Prior to this, the staff have already been planning different ways to enhance the curriculum over the coming months, fully utilising our school grounds, as well as green spaces in our local community and beyond.

Maths is one of the subjects that really works outside, as there are so many practical ways it can be used during activities. Learning times tables is without doubt an invaluable skill, but using maths to work out solutions to practical problems can be so much more fun and gives it a real purpose. There is absolutely no reason why every subject could

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

not be given a new dimension when it is taken outdoors.

We appreciate how lucky we are in having fantastic grounds at St Margaret’s. These include a wildlife area complete with bug houses and a snake hibernaculum, as well as a working school garden with sensory area and an orchard. We have just completed the construction of an outdoor stage next to the story telling area, which will provide children with a venue for outdoor performances and other group activities.

We are excited to share our love of learning beyond the classroom with other local schools and as a result we have set up an outdoor learning cluster group, which comprises nearby Springfields Academy, as well as a number of local primary schools including Redland and Cherhill. We recently enjoyed our inaugural ‘Big Outdoor Lesson’ which brought us all together for a host of outdoor learning activities.

At St Margaret’s, we have an outdoor learning co-ordinator who is involved with organising a wide range of activities, working alongside our own staff, as well as colleagues

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“We plan many outdoor activities throughout the year and these go ahead regardless of the weather” from other schools. In the same way that the children learn to value each other’s talents, we have enjoyed sharing in the expertise of one of our new friends from Springfields, who has Forest School recognition, allowing him to work with us in supervising such aspects as lighting fires!

During our Big Outdoor Lesson, children from Years 2 to 5 gathered in the wildlife area at St Margaret’s, with young leaders from Springfields who helped to set up and lead activities utilising a range of talents offered by staff from all the schools. To help solve problems and learn to trust each other, the pupils had to work in pairs, often with one of them blindfolded and the other guiding them around barriers on a trail. These events provide wonderful opportunities for all children to demonstrate and develop their range of learning styles and apply their effective learning skills outside the classroom.

Children being outside and engaging with nature is without doubt an excellent antidote to the ongoing debate on technology taking over young people’s lives. We live in an awesome world and there is so much to see; opening their eyes to everything around them is what we are trying to encourage.

In addition to what our children learn in their outdoor lessons, we also have a full range of activities such as eco club and gardening club that make full use of our gardens and grounds. Further, our Year 3 pupils enjoy an overnight camp in the school grounds each September. For many it will be their first time away from home, sleeping in a tent and cooking on an open fire. They learn how to be self-sufficient with the help of fully qualified specialist leaders from an outdoor activity company. There is a great deal of excitement for weeks after and the children have made wonderful memories for life.

Children in Reception and Year 1 undertake weekly visits to Highway Manor at Hilmarton, where they are free to run in the 200 acre wood and engage in activities such as bark tracing and foraging. They also especially enjoy the farm, and having opportunities to help out with the lambs and alpaca.

During the summer term we were externally moderated by Eco-Schools, part of Keep Britain Tidy, against their Green Flag criteria and as a result we were really delighted to receive our fourth consecutive Green Flag! The assessor looked at our outdoor learning provision and how we care for the environment. We were especially proud of our Year 6 Eco Drivers who took her on a tour of St Margaret’s and discussed our work with knowledge and passion.

Feedback subsequently confirmed that St Margaret’s sets an excellent example of whole school commitment to outdoor learning, sustainability and environmental activities.It also recognised that we have a dedicated staff with a passion for outdoor

learning and using the environment to stimulate education in all its forms. ‘The children showed amazing enthusiasm and an in-depth knowledge for Eco topics and obviously enjoy the challenges of problem solving to achieve their goals. Their Eco work is enriched through close links with local schools and their local community and an Eco focus on school visits and residential weeks.’

We were very proud to get this accolade as it highlights our ongoing work.

In June this year, thanks to the support and generosity of our Parents’ Association, we were thrilled to be able to open an outdoor classroom, named ‘Evie’s Place’ in memory of our former pupil, Evie Clover, who very sadly died at the start of 2018 from brain cancer.

Evie loved learning of all kinds and had a special fondness for being outside; I know that the children already adore being there, whether it’s for a lesson or simply relaxing with a book.

We have a very strong vision and ethos to create explorers at St Margaret’s. We want our children to try different things – whether it’s auditioning for a choir, entering a biathlon or taking part in a Maths competition - and our message is always ‘never be afraid to fail’.

Our ethos of ‘creating explorers’ emphasises how we want the children in our care to go on a journey of discovery, willingly undertaking research and being free thinkers; outdoor learning helps them to achieve that. This positive attitude and approach will stand them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

When they are being interviewed in the future for new schools, university places or even employment, they will be able to express their own thoughts and ideas with confidence and self-assurance, demonstrating common sense and ultimately engaging in collaborative working; these are undoubtedly some of the most valuable attributes they will ever acquire! n

St Margaret’s is holding an Open Morning on Thursday 11 October from 9.30am until midday. Register online at www. stmargaretsprep.org.uk or contact Mrs Simone Hughes on 01249 857379.

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

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

Starting School?

We'd love to see you at one of our

OPEN DAYS Atworth

Tuesday 9th October 2018

10am

-2

ppo pm nece intment ssar y

No a

Monkton Farleigh Friday 12th October 2018

We love our nurturing school and you will too!

All are welcome to visit to see it in action…

We look forward to meeting you Ofsted rated 'Good' 2017

Headteacher: Mr Simon Futcher Bradford Road, Atworth, Wiltshire, SN12 8HY Tel: 01225 703026 Email: admin@churchfields.wilts.sch.uk www.churchfields.wilts.sch.uk

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Mayden’s coding academy a springboard to a new career We tend to think of university as the first step toward a successful career but it isn’t the only way – Mayden Academy tells us more

T

hree years of education isn’t the right thing for everyone, and with the total average cost of attending university in the UK estimated at £22,200 per year, many young people completing their A Levels today are considering other options.

Ben Long, an A Level student at Beechen Cliff School of Bath, had known for some time that he wanted to become a software developer.

But for a variety of reasons, he did not feel that university was the path for him.

Searching online for other options, Ben came across a local coding school, Mayden Academy. The academy’s Full Stack Track is a 16 week course, designed to teach all the skills an individual needs to land their first job as a professional developer. The course was created

by Mayden - a fast growing software company based in Bath and specialising in systems for the

healthcare industry - and is taught by professional software developers with years of practical experience and knowledge of the industry.

While his friends spent their last summer at home before uni, Ben opted to take three months out after finishing his A Levels to travel around Thailand and Australia on a motorbike, before returning at the beginning of the school year to start the 16 week course at the academy.

By the time his friends were home for Christmas after their first term away, Ben had been offered his first position as a software developer.

On the course, Ben found himself in a cohort of eight students of varying ages and from a variety of different backgrounds, with one particular thing in common: a passion for code.

For 16 weeks, they studied together, worked on projects together, and socialised together at tech meetups across the region.

The course is made up of a series of ten core modules interspersed with six practical

“The course is made up of a series of ten core modules interspersed with six practical coding projects”

To find out more about Mayden Academy, visit mayden.academy and register to attend a taster session.

coding projects, helping students to embed their knowledge as well as building a portfolio of work for them to share, to demonstrate their skills at interview stage.

Because software developers are in such high demand - particularly in Bath and Bristol - the largest tech hub outside of London - numerous local businesses have joined the academy as hiring partners, providing them with an opportunity to meet graduates before they even hit the job market.

Mayden Academy is rightly proud of its record: every one of their graduates has been offered their first job as a software developer within 90 days of completing the Full Stack Track course.

In just seven days, Ben was hired as a software developer by multi-award winning startup incubator, RocketMakers. Today, nine months on, he is thriving in a new career as he saves to buy his first home. n

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 91

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

the big interview

For the last eight years, Walcot Street has been home to Athena CauleyYu’s Meticulous Ink, the coolest of old-school stationers, where baffling ’50s-style printing presses whirr and rumble, and gorgeous hand-crafted cards and invitations squirt out the other end. “You know what,” she tells us, “life’s too short not to make something beautiful.”

Words by Matt Bielby Portraits by Jesper Mattias

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93

the big interview

I

n a narrow, deep, wood-lined space towards the top of Walcot Street sits one of Bath’s more intriguing artisan businesses, the fine stationery outfit Meticulous Ink. Once upon a time, it was at the other end of the road, by the more matter-of-fact Minuteman, but up here they’ve room for a small store at the front, selling their ready-tosend range, as well as two hulking Heidelberg Windmill printing presses, black steampunk iron cubes covered in knobs and levers, and weighing over a tonne each. Once the workhorses of print shops across the world, they’re antiques now – but too tough to die.

Meticulous Ink is the brainchild of Athena Cauley-Yu, who grew up on the outskirts of north London with a half Irish, half Jamaican mum – always encouraging of her creativity – and Chinese dad. As a kid, she was always painting, and later studied arts and media, specialising in fine art print, “mainly because nobody else seemed to be using the print studio”. Six months after leaving uni, she was working at a private stationers on London’s Soho Square.

That first place you worked, it was sort of like Meticulous Ink?

Except, obviously, not as good. And after a few years I went to a similar outfit in Mayfair.

But I’d always wanted my own business, and by 2010 my partner at the time wanted to leave London. I didn’t mind, and it seemed time to do something on my own. So I looked at where might be nice to live, and scraped together the money to give it a go.

So why Bath?

There wasn’t another stationer here doing what we do, whereas Oxford had one already. And Bath has a good demographic for us, with lots of wedding venues around.

Because all you do is letterpress print?

Yes, and it’s very different to regular printing.

I’m trained specifically in stationery design, and our work has a specific look because of the restraints forced upon us by the style. We do modern, contemporary letterpress with texture – doing our best to make a 2D piece of paper appear 3D – but there’s a more traditional flat form, too. As we’re all about bespoke work, there needed to be enough money around to support us, and Bath looked like it might have that.

No regrets?

Not at all. I feel like I’m quite a lucky person – I’m certainly an optimistic one! – and it all came together perfectly. We didn’t plan to do any of the initial printing ourselves – just the design, and we’d outsource print to the place I used to work in London – but it quickly became clear that they weren’t as meticulous as I am. In the business plan, I wasn’t planning to buy our first press for three years – but, of course, what happened is we ended up getting our first Heidelberg after three months, and another soon after. They were only a few thousand

Athena gets out the fancy dip pen, and writes a note that puts our GP-quality handwriting to shame

“It quickly became clear they weren’t as meticulous as I am”

pounds – a bargain, really – but it cost the same again to move them. They’re very heavy, so we had to check the structural plans of our building very carefully, and the only two places we’re allowed to put them is where they’re currently standing. Just to get them through the front door meant we had to dismantle them completely.

So, where did you find them?

The first came from York, and, about a mile away from getting here, it tipped over on the lorry and nearly fell off.

It was a heart-in-mouth-moment – I imagined it like a piano in a cartoon, falling on someone’s head.

Did it break?

One little bit did, but these things are built to last.

Though they’re old, they’re still used by many modern digital printers, but mostly for die cutting and scoring, not actually printing, so they’re often missing vital parts

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95

the big interview like ink ducts. The issue was finding a machine that still had all its parts, and was solid and well screwed together.

A month or two after the first one arrived, someone else told us that, if we didn’t buy their machine, they were going to scrap it. Of course, we had to have that one too.

And are they hard to use?

Most of the work is in the set-up. For our own-brand stuff, we might do a print run of a hundred pieces, taking 10 minutes. But if we do a thousand, it’ll be running all afternoon. The thing is, you do have to watch them. As soon as you turn your back, something will go wrong.

So they’re temperamental?

Nah. We look after them, make sure they’re happy, treat them with respect, and they’re all good. Ninety per cent of what we do is printed on one of these machines. If we have to print something in full colour, of course, then we use a nice, high-quality digital printer in Corsham.

Early on, you decided you’d never print artwork anyone else had prepared, didn’t you?

Simply so I can be proud of everything we do. Many regular graphic designers don’t understand the technical limitations that we have to work to – so they’d provide artwork that uses thin text knocked out of an area of solid colour, say, which is hard to make work. There are so many tiny, pernickety details involved, it made sense to take control of everything we do.

The little shop in the entrance sells gorgeous cards, but for the really impressive stuff you want to head further back into the depths of the workshop…

You say ‘we’, and there are a few of you here…

Two full time and two part time – and me. Julia’s our lead printer, Claire is in training to take over from Julia, Verity does our marketing, and Elizabeth does the folding and quality checking. All ladies, but purely by chance.

Do you feel part of a growing artisan trend?

The letterpress world is very friendly, as everyone wants to keep it going, and yes, it’s resurgent right now as part of a larger, handmade, back-in-time trend; I love the new appreciation everyone has for patience. I also love an American typography designer called Jessica Hische.

She’s not a letterpress printer, but does lots of hand lettering, and is just really cool; I’d love to meet her.

C’mon, then. Show me your handwriting.

It’s like this.

Ha ha! Very posh. But you can’t go to all that trouble writing a note for the milkman…

Why? Life’s too short not to make something beautiful.

You could take her dancing...

Do people on the courses get as good as you?

It’s defined by the sort of printing we do. For each colour we print, we need a new plate – and a new print run. So it’s more effort, and the more expensive for the customer.

Most of the time, three colours is a good maximum for us – I can’t remember if we’ve ever even tried to do four – and that forces you to use your brain, because if you’ve

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

I try not to look at other people’s print work. I do go to art galleries, though, and in Madrid took pictures of stained glass windows, in case they’re something I can use.

For three years now. Everyone’s busy running their own businesses, so none of us have enough time, but we do run Walcot Winterfest – a Sunday party festival thing, which will hopefully be a little bigger this year – and Wild Walcot, a community garden around the corner from where Neptune is now. Everyone’s concerned about the empty shops, of course – but that’s the same all over.

Yes, in calligraphy – either here, at The Makery in town, or privately. I do two copperplate calligraphy workshops – one for beginners, and one more advanced – which are traditional and use a dip pen, plus a more contemporary brush lettering workshop. We get couples who’re getting married and want to make their own place cards, and a lot of florists, keen to write nice, hand-written tags.

Everyone gets inky fingers, whichever course they do.

Tell us about your personal design style...

Who are your influences?

How’s Walcot Street at the mo, then? You’re secretary of the Trader’s Association, aren’t you?

You teach workshops too, don’t you?

It depends on how much practice they put in. I’ve been doing calligraphy for seven years now, and I look back at my earliest stuff and cringe. Some people are naturals, and with others it’s as if I suddenly decided to pick up a violin. It’s all screech, screech, twang, you know?

got two colours it actually means you can print three, thanks to overlaps where you get a third colour. My style involves trying to use these limitations to our advantage.

“Everyone gets inky fingers, whichever course it is they do”

Maybe! But you’re right, I’m always dancing, Lindy Hop swing in particular. I go to classes on a Tuesday in Bath, and every weekend I’m dancing in Bristol or somewhere.

Perhaps you could go on Strictly?

I doubt it, but I will be on a Channel 4 show with Kirstie Allsopp; it’s called Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas, and I’m going to show her how to make a pop-up card.

I’m sure you’ll be a TV natural…

Well, I was on the same show last year as a contestant – there’s a competition aspect too – and this time around they’ve asked me to come back as an expert. I mean, I didn’t actually win it last year – but did they ask the winner back? Just saying… n

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NIC BOTTOMLEY BOOKS

Small wonder From 28 September to 7 October, Bath Children’s Literature Festival will be taking over the city.

Here, Nic Bottomley celebrates writing for young people

“Bath Children’s Literature Festival is an incredible asset for our city”

B

ath Children’s Literature Festival begins on the day this issue of Bath Life hits the city, so it’s time for me to put aside my usual musings on new titles that have caught my notice, and focus on this incredible celebration of writing for young people. Well, young people and us older people who still love reading those books or sharing them with our kids.

We should never forget that Bath Children’s Literature Festival is an incredible asset for our city. Bookshops, libraries, publishers, authors, schools and parents work so hard all year round to build the next generation of our nation of readers. And here in Bath, we are fortunate enough to be backed up in those efforts by the largest festival of its kind anywhere in Europe, bringing authors of interest to every age group into the city to meet and inspire their readers.

As usual, the programme features a healthy mix of local writers, new talent and some of the very biggest names in children’s books.

The famous faces appear from the very start with the launch seeing Gill McLay (one half of the couple who created the festival back in 2007, and continue to programme and direct it) interviewing Children’s Laureate Lauren Child (28 September).

Child is perhaps best known as the creator of younger children’s book and television characters Charlie and Lola; although not in our house. With us it’s her heroine for readers around the Key Stage 2 ages, Ruby Redfort, that makes her a literary legend.

The six-strong Ruby Redfort series (first book Look Into My Eyes, Harper Collins, £6.99) are witty, fast-paced, code-cracking mysteries with a zesty and assured heroine that readers seem to fall for in a big way. By the end of book one, my eldest daughter had already made up her mind to make sure her next pair of glasses were an exact match for Ruby’s preferred style, and, well into book four there’s no sign of the love affair ending.

During the special launch event, Child will be talking and answering questions about not just her own characters but also more generally about creativity, the overlooked power of daydreaming and the pure joy that writing and illustrating can bring. It promises to be an inspiring opening kick-off session for parents and kids alike.

Second on that daughter’s own wish-list for the festival is a trip to see Helena Duggan, whose second book, The Trouble with Perfect (Usborne, £6.99), has just been released. This is the sequel to Duggan’s superb debut, A Place Called Perfect, which I raved about in this column not so long ago.

The first book saw Violet unceremoniously moved to a suspiciously “perfect” new town with which she, but only she, could see many faults. Aided by the mysterious Boy, Violet spends the novel unpicking the town’s many unexplained oddities, in what becomes a pleasingly sinister plot littered with twists, turns and dead ends. The sequel promises new threats and a potential splinter in Violet and Boy’s team dynamic, and it’s going to be fascinating hearing Helena, and her co-presenter Sophie Cleverly, talk about writing the books and writing mysteries generally (29 September).

As ever, at the festival illustrators are just as well represented as authors, and one of our favourite combiners of both of those talents is once again coming to town to talk about his craft. Chris Riddell’s latest illustration project is the daunting task of bringing to life J.K. Rowling’s five-story Harry Potter spin-off The Tales of Beedle the Bard (Bloomsbury, £25). Over the years Riddell’s rich and gothic illustrations have graced dozens of his own books as well as incredible novels, poems and modern myths by the likes of Neil Gaiman, Michael Rosen and Frances Hardinge.

But surely dipping his toe into the Potter ecosphere, with an eager but discerning and colossal fanbase, must be one of his most nerve-wracking and thrilling endeavours yet? We will find out as the festival reaches its crescendo, with Riddell talking and simultaneously recreating some of his Beedle the Bard illustrations (7 October).

That trio is but a minute taster of a festival that has events, masterclasses, workshops and readings to excite reading addicts and to inspire reluctant readers of every age. Ten days of bookish mayhem to celebrate!

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101

Consignments invited for our pre-Christmas Specialist Sale

£8,600

£23,500

£19,600

THEATRE

Michelle Dockery as Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion; In Praise of Love’s Tara Fitzgerald and Robert Lindsay; David Tennant and Kelly Reilly in Look Back In Anger

© NOBBY CL ARKE

FROM FAR LEFT:

My name is... © NOBBY CL ARKE

Countless international celebrities have graced the Bath stage before being launched into superstardom.

Here, we take a look back at our favourites

I

n October 1992, a young actress was in Bath to talk about her first major stage role. It was Tara Fitzgerald, and she had been chosen personally

by Peter O’Toole to star alongside him in the world premiere of a play

by Keith Waterhouse called Our Song. Our Song went on to great success in the West End, and Tara went on to play Ophelia on Broadway, opposite Ralph Fiennes’ Hamlet.

She will be back in Bath soon (2 October – 3 November) to star with Robert Lindsay in Terence Rattigan’s powerful drama about a marriage, In Praise of Love.

There is a real thrill to knowing you have seen an actor in the early days of their career, on the cusp of a big break, before they become a household name or even an international celebrity.

Director Peter Hall cast a number of young actors in his summer seasons in Bath (2003 – 2011) who, although unknown at the time, went on to became global stars.

His daughter Rebecca Hall had only just made her stage debut when she appeared in DH Lawrence’s The Fight for Barbara, and as Rosalind in As You Like It in his inaugural summer season. Five years later, she was receiving a Golden Globe nomination for playing Vicky in Woody Allen’s Vicky Cristina Barcelona, and went on to star in Ron Howard’s Frost/Nixon, Ben

Affleck’s The Town, and Iron Man 3.

Michelle Dockery rose from playing Cockney flower-seller Eliza Doolittle in Pygmalion in 2007 to receiving nominations for three consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for her role as Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey. Dan Stevens, who played her husband, had appeared as Claudio in Much Ado About Nothing in 2005 before he also gained international stardom as the mutant David Haller in the FX series Legion.

Who would have thought that the 12th incarnation of Doctor Who had cut his acting teeth on the Bath stage? Back in 1984, Blood Brothers visited Bath on its first UK tour, with Peter Capaldi playing Eddie, the posh brother, more than 20 years before he was to become Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It, and then The Doctor. Months after starring in Look Back in Anger in Bath in 2005, David Tennant started filming as the 10th incarnation of Doctor Who, and became a household name in Broadchurch and Casanova, and is now considered to be one of Scotland’s finest actors. He had previously appeared at the Theatre Royal Bath in 1995 in What the Butler Saw, sporting a leopard print dress.

At Christmas 2000, the youngest member of The Magic Circle, Dominic Wood, played Buttons in the pantomime Cinderella. The following year, a young

“Undoubtedly, one day you will be able to say “I saw them first in Bath”

presenter, Richard McCourt was Wishee Washee in Aladdin. Months later, they were reinvented on CBeebies as Dick and Dom, and the rest is history.

Two of the most popular comedians in the UK today, Adam Hills and Sara Pascoe, both performed their stand-up routines in the Ustinov Studio to audiences of about a hundred people in 2009. Similarly, John Oliver had appeared in the Ustinov as part of The Comedy Zone Week in 2002.

Four years later, he was on television in the States as a multi award-winning political pundit on The Daily Show and in Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, garnering regular viewing figures of 4.5 million.

Tears for Fears played the Theatre Royal in 1985. Between tickets going on sale on New Year’s Day for £5 and £2, and the concert itself, the Bath-based duo released Songs from the Big Chair, which was to become one of the best-selling albums of the ’80s, and launched the band into superstardom. As you can imagine, the theatre was bursting at the seams.

Jamie Parker played Henry V in 2012 and was in Proof and Candida in 2013, but his theatrical career went stratospheric in 2016 when, aged 36, he was cast as Harry Potter in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child in the West End and in New York, where it is currently the hottest ticket on Broadway.

So scan the cast lists and keep your programmes for reference, and undoubtedly one day you will be able to say “I saw them first, in Bath”.

Anna O’Callaghan, Marketing Manager, Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose; 01225 448844; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103

koh thai tapas

Irresistibly rich flavours await you at Koh Thai Tapas, where you’ll find the veritable greatest hits of Southeast Asia

By Lisa Evans

I

like this place: I like the buzz. I like the sunset, palm tree and elephant paintings on the walls.

I like the buddha statues and ornately carved wooden panels. I like the far-flung beers and fiery cocktails. And I like the food; I like it a lot. I’ve been here for birthdays, anniversaries and even to celebrate New Year (although I only lasted till 11pm), and I’ve dined on all three of its floors. So I’m a regular at Koh Thai Tapas, and I know what I want without looking at the menu.

I like the punch and vibrancy of their cashew and pineapple stir-fry, and have swooned like so many others over the sweet-spicy glazed weeping tiger steak, their sizzling seafood, their chicken satay skewers and their implausibly tender 24-hour ribs. But today I’m not opting for ‘my usual’, because it’s harder for me to review

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

something I’m so comfortable and acquainted with.

As the husband and I wave a sorrowful goodbye to our faithful foodie friends, we welcome newcomers, aromatic sweetcorn cakes and crispy beef as our starters. (Ok, ok, we may have tasted these in the past, but it was so long ago that we don’t remember).

I should mention at this point that the eatery is popular for its bitesize tapas dishes, hence the name, but, tonight we’re journeying on the less-travelled starter-main-dessert road, because, again, we’re trying to give ourselves a fresh perspective. We’re used to having to sheepishly ask the waiter for a table for four, because we know that the couple’s one they show us to will be far too small for the eight or more tapas dishes we’ll be ordering. But tonight, a little two-seater is fine.

We first came to Koh Thai when it only had three other

restaurant

sites – Boscombe, Bournemouth and Southsea. Since then, many more have sprung up, but the quality hasn’t dwindled, so that’s a relief.

Main for me is a dish that tastes like it cares about your welfare; it’s a fragrant, soothing, creamy yellow curry bobbing with fat tofu chunks (meat options are available), new potatoes, gossamer slices of red chili, and burstingly fresh vegetables, and is sprinkled with crispy shallots. For him, it’s a richly sauced ‘boozy duck’ featuring roasted, smoky slices of poultry, seared in all the right places, stir-fried with lemongrass, bamboo shoots, peppers, green beans, the distinctive tangy flavour of krachai – milder and earthier than ginger – and a large thwack of heat.

For dessert – again, another first for us here as we’re usually too full for pudding – is a chocolate bomb, which we’re expecting to be one of those much-Instagrammed spheres of chocolate on to which a hot sauce is poured, melting the dessert to reveal a further treat inside, but this is actually a chocolate sponge base under soft truffle, with an oozing caramel centre and topped with a profiterole. If, after your savoury courses, you’re dealing with chili burn, this creamy, decadent dream will sort you right out.

I can’t tell you how authentic the Thai food is, as I’ve never been to Asia. But, in all honesty, who cares? They say it is, and I believe them. But I do know that if you like sultry fire hidden in unassuming depths, sticky sweet-sour sauces for dredging, and flavour intensity which could potentially cause hallucinogenic episodes, then you should come here right away. n

“If you like flavour intensity which could cause hallucinogenic episodes, then come here”

Dining details Koh Thai Tapas, 36 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk In a nutshell Thai with a modern twist We ate Sweetcorn cakes, crispy beef, yellow curry, boozy duck, egg-fried rice, chocolate bomb pudding Prices Tapas from £5 to £9; salads and soups from £7 to £12; mains from £8.50 to £18; desserts £5 Drinks Adventurous cocktails as well as a good choice of wines Service/atmosphere Laid-back yet super buzzy

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 105

2018 Join us at The Greenhouse Restaurant this Christmas and enjoy the festive party season in a relaxed and stylish setting, the perfect destination to share in the celebrations with your family, friends and colleagues too.

We’ll be offering a 2 or 3 course festive fayre (£25pp for 2 courses or £30pp for 3 courses) available for lunch and dinner from 30th November -24th December. We’ll also be open on Christmas Day for a gourmet dining experience and on Boxing Day for Classic Brunch.

FESTIVE OPENING HOURS

Christmas Eve open for lunch and dinner, normal opening hours Christmas Day open 11am - 5pm Boxing Day open 11am - 5pm 27 & 28 December Residents only 29 & 30 December open as normal New Year’s Eve 11am - ‘til late New Year’s Day 11am - 5pm Booking during the festive period is essential Reserve a table at any time by calling 01225 585880 or book online at www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk The Greenhouse Restaurant The Pavilion | Wadswick Green | Corsham SN13 9RD

food & drink

which itself grew from a country pub, restaurant and garden specialising in local game. We began outside catering in 2005.

What are some of the most popular dishes that you do for weddings?

The most popular starter is a ‘salmon trio’, showcasing three preparations (cured, hot-smoked and croquette) in a single, beautiful plate. The most popular main course is harder to pin down because clients usually take up our offer to tailor their dishes, which means we cook very varied menus. For desserts, simple classics, like lemon or chocolate tarts, are always popular.

take 5 Not content with just being a

private chef, Michael Holloway decided to set up Wild Fork West, a Bath-based catering company, providing food for intimate dinners, full-scale feasts and everything inbetween Whether it is a wedding or a dinner party, there is no denying that culinary expectations these days are high. So how is Michael Holloway, owner of Wild Fork West, bowling over guests with his catering? Here, he tells us all about his business and how local, seasonal produce is winning the day.

Tell us more about Wild Fork West...

It’s a catering company based in Bath, specialising in private dining,

from intimate dinners through birthday parties and beyond to large-scale feasts. So the core of our work is sourcing and preparing great ingredients from local producers, then presenting our dishes with love. As well as great food, we make fabulous drinks and ensure a great atmosphere, all brought together by charming staff.

How did the idea for it come about?

Wild Fork West is essentially the ‘Bath office’ for its award-winning parent company, The Wild Fork,

What are some of your personal favourite canapés that you create?

Guests want something interesting and unusual but also familiar, delicious, and – of course – visually striking. We use fantastic products and make everything ourselves, from scratch. My favourites include Dorset crab in lemon mayonnaise on an oatcake; spinach, tomato and goats’ cheese flatbreads; and butternut squash and sage arancini.

And you do drinks too…

Most clients source their own drinks because we do not charge corkage.

Some want advice on pairing food with wines or beers, which we’re happy to offer. We are also able to supply a range of drinks, including fine wines, as required.

Where do you source your food from?

Our meat comes from the very excellent Larkhall Butchers.

Amazing cheeses come from The Fine Cheese Co. We also use New Wave Seafood, Eades and Arthur David as well as more specialist suppliers.

Can you give us some food predictions about what we’ll be eating at the next wedding we attend?

The biggest buzzwords are ‘relaxed’ and ‘informal’ because quality cooking is something we now expect as part of our everyday lives. Also, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus are still growing in demand.

Catering can be a stressful experience. How do you make things run smoothly – for you and the client?

Catering is stressful because you share your clients’ high expectations for their special occasions. We try to de-stress these occasions for our clients by ensuring they are confident in our service and execution. To this end, in advance, we prepare detailed event plans for our clients. Then, on event days, we work to a well-established system but also, as necessary, will improvise with creativity to ensure guests experience seamless enjoyment.

You’re a chef yourself – what made you decide to work with food?

Making food and serving people is the most wonderful, interesting and fulfilling work I know. Plus food is a great way to connect with people, whether that is clients, guests, suppliers or the team.

Any chef heroes?

So many people and places inspire me. Tony Bourdain, Fergus and Margot Henderson, J. Kenji LópezAlt, Yotam Ottolenghi, Nigel Slater – the list goes on, and on…

You’re a private chef. Why do you think private chefs are becoming more mainstream?

Using a private chef means great food and service in a relaxed atmosphere. The client can specify the menu, wine list and location to their tastes. The meal and service are tailored each time to their particular requirements.

What’s the most challenging and the most rewarding part of your job?

The challenge is to constantly drive standards upwards, which is also the most rewarding aspect.

What do you think sets Wild Fork West apart from other catering businesses?

We just try and do the simple things really well, whether that is dressing a room just right, baking the perfect bread roll, or cleaning down after service.

For more: www.wildforkwest.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107

food & drink news Champagne, cheese and so much more

SALUT New to Bath are two companies who have joined forces to open a new

bistro, bar and homeware store with a theme which may excite many – Champagne and cheese.

Based on George Street, Comptoir+Cuisine is a bistro and concept store specialising in pairing artisanal Grower Champagne with an extensive range of over 50 French cheeses, charcuterie, tartines, seasonal specials and eye-catching macarons. The foodie spot serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner, while those who fancy devouring French nourishment at home, can grab something at the on-site deli.

A selection of utensils, skincare, fabrics, furnishings are on sale in their store section, and the people at Comptoir+Cuisine have promised that if you like any of the furniture that you see – such as the table you’re sitting at in the café, you can purchase it.

Joining the night scene in Bath, Champagne & Fromage brings us The Lounge bar. Situated in the basement floor (below Comptoir+Cuisine), the bar offers champagne, and a selection of cocktails, beers and wines.

For more: comptoirpluscuisine.com/ www.champagneplusformage.co.uk

THE HEAT IS ON Komedia’s newly decorated Arts Café

On 18 October, Ston Easton Park will be hosting a

unique chilli day, where guests will indulge in a raw chili tasting session and then feast upon a three-course chilithemed lunch.

Dedicated gardeners, Dale Toten and Steve Hargreaves, will be hosting the chilli day, which will kick off with a talk on the history of the chili, its evolution in modern cuisine, and the many different varieties which are now available to grow. Guest will then take a leisurely tour through the hotel’s historic working kitchen gardens before being taught the ideal growing conditions to harvest their very own plants.

For more: www.stoneaston.co.uk

CAFÉ CULTURE Komedia Arts Café has undergone a complete renovation, revealing natural wood and light tones, a relaxed and informal space with board games, a play area for kids, an impossibly comfortable sofa and a charmingly battered house piano.

To coincide with the new look, the café has also launched a brand-new menu. Eaters can expect an epic all-day breakfast, as well as plenty of lunch, brunch and smaller snacks to choose from, with loads of veggie and vegan options and a brand kids’ menu.

“Our little café needed to up its

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

game in terms of aesthetics and atmosphere to start getting more of a look-in. It was Bath’s best kept secret, but not in a cool ‘underground’ kind of way – people literally didn’t know it existed,” says marketing and communications manager Ellie Rogers.

“When we decided to renovate the café, we wanted to create a warm, welcoming and contemporary space, giving it its own personality – a lot of love went into the redesign and we really hope that shines through.”

For more: www.komedia.co.uk

Vibrant chillies growing wild at Ston Easton Park

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR AT THE GRAPES This year The Grapes will be open for Christmas Day 12-4pm for lunch (booking in advance only) Christmas Day Lunch £85.00 per person for 6 courses New Years Eve £65.00 per person for 6 courses.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS are available to book now, see online for our menu £25.00 Two Courses / £32.00 Three Courses 14 Silver Street, Bradford On Avon, BA15 1JY Telephone: 01225 938088 Email: maylee@thebunchofgrapes.com

www.thebunchofgrapes.com

Opening Thursday 11th October 12 Upper Borough Walls, Bath Join us for our Soft Launch Weekend on 6th and 7th October

25% off all Weekend!

WEDDINGS & PRIVATE PARTIES

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Make Bath Crockhire your first port of call this Christmas, when looking for catering equipment in Bath and the surrounding area.

We stock a huge range of high quality crockery, cutlery, glassware, serving dishes and much more. We guarantee that every piece of catering equipment is delivered on time and hassle-free. Take advantage of our unique ‘return dirty’ service.

68 Combe Road, Bath, Somerset BA2 5HZ | Tel: 01225 833233 | Email: greatpeople@bathcrockhire.com To see the full range of our products and a price list visit our website:

WWW.BATHCROCKHIRE.COM @bathcrockhire

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

MISTLETOE & WINE

We don’t mean to alarm you, but Christmas is coming. There’s an abundance of great places to eat and drink in Bath – but where to go for the annual Christmas party? Whether you’re after luxury foodie heaven or a heaving dancefloor, we’ve chatted to the hosts in town to find out what festive fun is on offer

By Harriet Noble 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

“Each evening will include a club night so that guests can party on until 3am”

ABBEY HOTEL

Josh Watts, general manager The Abbey Hotel restaurant, Koffmann & Mr. White’s, is bang in town, so, perfect if you and your colleagues are based in the city centre. It is also one of the most Christmassylooking hot spots due to its popular Apres Ski Bar – providing a very festive place to go for drinks pre or post your meal.

What do guests at your Christmas parties get in terms of food and drink?

We are happy to create your Foodie treats at bespoke event, but whatever The Abbey Hotel you choose at Koffmann & Mr. White’s (the joint venture restaurant between Marco Pierre White and Pierre Koffman) it will be a blast. Menu choices include kipper pâté with whisky, toasted sourdough, black bream, winter roasted vegetables; and, for dessert, crème vanilla with champagnepoached peaches.

What does it cost per person?

Lunch is from £28 for three courses, plus coffee and chocolates; dinner is from £38 for three courses, plus coffee and chocolates.

How are you getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

Preparing the Après Ski Bar for its launch in November The welcoming and cosy Hare & Hounds pub and restaurant

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Classic, unpretentious, unique For more: www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Festive table settings at Orchardleigh

ORCHARDLEIGH

Karl Stephens, estate manager This beautiful country estate nestled amidst gorgeous parkland and lakes allows you to escape the Christmas chaos and head into the countryside.

What do guests at your Christmas parties get in terms of food and drink?

A delicious three-course festive lunch with a choice of starter, main and dessert.

What does it cost per person?

£24pp for Christmas lunch.

How are you getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

Not only will our delicious menu tickle our guests’ festive taste buds, the venue will be adorned in yuletide splendour to bring to life the Christmas spirit.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

We can promise the finest food in the most beautiful surroundings. Our large venue enables guests and large parties to enjoy each others company, creating a jolly party atmosphere.

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Hearty, happy and a whole-lot-of-fun.

For more www.orchardleigh.net

KOMEDIA

Ellie Rogers, marketing and communications manager Bath venue Komedia has got a bit of everything – food, entertainment, music and dancing – so it’s the perfect spot if you fancy a boogie after your meal.

What do guests get when they come to a Komedia Christmas party?

There’ll be fabulous food, featuring homemade starters and puds, Pieminister’s staggeringly good festive pie range, and lots of Christmassy cocktails to indulge in. Each evening will also include a club night so that

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 115

CHRISTMAS PARTIES guests can party on until 3am.

What does it cost per person?

A full three-course meal package, including a show and after-party, is £54 per person. Early bird tickets have a £5 discount.

How are you getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

The venue will be decorated with more trees and fairy lights than you could shake a tinselclad stick at, the staff will be k(n)itted-out in their favourite Christmas jumpers, and there just might be an upbeat Christmas tune or two on the jukebox.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

They’re one of the very few options available in the city where you can get everything all under one roof: top-notch food, awesome live entertainment and an after-party with cracking tunes and unbeatable drinks deals.

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Lively, welcoming, downright joyful (please excuse the extra word).

For more: www.komedia.co.uk

HARE & HOUNDS

Jen Blake, general manager The Hare & Hounds pub combines the best of both worlds – it’s on the outskirts of the city but, with the breath-taking views, you feel like you’re in the middle of the countryside.

What do guests get when they come to a Hare & Hounds Christmas party?

Our party menu consists of four fabulous courses. Menu choices include treacle-cured Chalk Stream trout, beetroots, sorrel and horseradish, Castlemead turkey, apricot stuffing, roast potatoes, caramelised sprouts, roasted parsnips and gravy, and for dessert – dark chocolate and salted caramel mousse with blood orange sorbet.

What does it cost per person?

£29pp for four courses.

How are you getting everyone in the

All dolled up – guests relaxing at the Hare & Hounds

Christmas parties at Komedia are a jolly affair

Christmas mood?

We will have our pubs fully decked with Christmas lights and decorations. There will be festive music on and mulled wine and cider on offer.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

Parties are our speciality and we can also arrange exclusive hire of our private dining room or conservatory. Whether you want dinner and drinks, or a buffet, we can arrange a package to suit your needs.

Anything extra?

Join us in January for your festive knees-up.

Enjoy the same menu (including the crackers!) any time through January and we will knock 25 per cent off your food bill.

Describe the tone/ mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Celebratory, merry and delicious.

For more: www. hareandhoundsbath.com

BOWOOD HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESORT

Jeff Condliffe, general manager The boutique-style hotel is a great choice if you fancy staying the night. While you’re there, you can fit in

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

a round of golf or a visit or a visit to the spa.

What kind of fare can people expect?

Our choice of entrées, mains and desserts are traditional, like the Bowood brand, but have a contemporary twist to add a burst of freshness. Menu choices include a heartwarming roasted tomato and red pepper soup with a herb gremolata; sage- and onion-stuffed roast turkey with all the trimmings; and, for dessert, a raspberry crème brûlée.

What does it cost per person?

Midweek parties start from£43 per person; and weekend parties start from £48 to £58 per person (date specific).

How will you be getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

From the second the guests arrive at the Kerry Suite, they will be greeted by a giant twinkling Christmas tree, sourced from the estate. We will be showering guests with all of their favourite Christmas dance floor fillers from start to finish.

Anything extra?

Many of our guests choose to arrive early for a pre-Christmas party spa treatment – a ‘pre-sparty – if there is a small group of them, while others choose to stay overnight and make a short break of the occasion.

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Stylish, magical, unforgettable.

For more: www.bowood.org

THE BIRD, BATH

Tim O’Sullivan, general manager This hotel and restaurant is sure to draw

crowds this year as it is launching its own magical winter wonderland.

What do guests get when they come to The Bird for a Christmas party?

We can accommodate two to 120 people for an alternative yet wonderfully Christmassy two-course supper, and we have private dining areas for more intimate gatherings.

Menu choices include: venison chilli, red wine, chocolate, toasted rice; and, for dessert, caramelised pineapple and ginger pavlova.

What does it cost per person?

Various prices –£27.50 per head or £32.50 per head with three drinks. For a party without a disco, it’s £25 per head, and lunch party tickets are £20 a head.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

Woodland branches and spruces will be strewn with fairy lights, tables topped with flickering candelabra, and chairs draped in Bavarian rugs to keep you cosy. We’re serving bowl-food for a more relaxed vibe, so it’s a much less traditional take on Christmas dinner, but still entirely delicious.

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Fantastical, surprising, (fabulously) festive.

For more: www.thebirdbath.co.uk The bird is part of the Kaledoscope collection – other restaurants include Homewood Park and No.15 Great Pulteney

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

top: The elegant library at Bowood Hotel; bottom: Sumptious salmon at the Royal Crescent Hotel

& Spa

CHRISTMAS PARTIES left: Fabulous interiors at Timbrell’s Yard;

below: night time magic at The royal crescent

Hotel & Spa

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words...

Buzzy, welcoming, fun.

For more: www.timbrellsyard.com

THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

Emma Henderson, senior events co-ordinator You can’t really beat this one for the location – the beautiful Royal Crescent is a top choice if you’re after an elegant evening in gorgeous surroundings.

What can guests expect at your christmas parties?

When booking our special festive package, guests will receive a winter cocktail on arrival followed by a festive three-course menu ending with tea, coffee and mince pies. We can also offer bespoke menus and can arrange for afternoon tea and lunch celebrations too.

What does it cost per person?

Prices start from £95 per person for the festive package and include the hire of a private function space and dedicated events planner to assist with getting the final details sorted.

TIMBRELLS YARD

Henry Gray, general manager Timbrell’s Yard is a gorgeous riverside inn located in the heart of Bradford on Avon – just 15 minutes on the train from Bath.

What do guests get when they come to Timbrell’s Yard for a Christmas party?

They get fantastic food and drink in a fun, relaxed environment. Timbrell’s Yard is offering two fantastic Christmas party menus this year: a Christmas set menu and a buffet menu. Festive delights on the Christmas menu include venison, partridge and pheasant terrine with pear chutney, mustard and cornichons.

Parties opting for the buffet menu can expect Old Spot chipolatas wrapped in streaky bacon, jerk spiced chicken wings, mini mince pies and cherry and chocolate brownie bits.

“We always offer vegan options – spiced parsnip, coconut and lentil soup, for example”

How are you getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

Our hotel will be beautifully decorated and there is even a big Christmas tree in the crescent lawns.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

We can arrange tastings and really ensure guests enjoy a brilliantly bespoke Christmas party they will be sure to remember.

Describe the tone/mood of your Christmas parties in three words

Luxurious, Delicious, Decadent.

For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

What does it cost per person?

Christmas set menu, two courses £27, three courses £33, buffet menu, £22 per head.

How are you getting everyone in the Christmas mood?

We do a big, informal wine and cheese tasting before Christmas, so that customers can come along and see the space and chat through their party requests one-to-one.

What is unique/special about your Christmas parties?

The outstanding food and the choice on offer.

We always offer vegan options on our menu.

For example, to start, spiced parsnip, coconut and lentil soup; sprout bhaji, coriander and tahini dressing; and spiced baked apple, cherry sorbet, pumpkin seed praline to finish.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 118

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

The list

More local options to get the party started...

In Bath Bonghy-Bo

2 –3 Barton Court, Upper Borough Walls, Bath; 01225 462276; www.bonghy-bo.co.uk The Chequers Bath

50 Rivers Street, Bath 01225 360017 www.thechequersbath.com Circo Bar

15 – 19 George Street, Bath 01225 585100 www.circobar.co.uk Circus Café & Restaurant

34 Brock Street, Bath 01225 466020; www.thecircuscafe andrestaurant.co.uk Combe Grove Manor

Brassknocker Hill, Bath 01225 834644 www.combegrove.com Corkage

132 Walcot Street, Bath 01225 422577 www.corkagebath.com

The Hope and Anchor Bath

Midford Road, Midford, Bath; 01225 832296 www.hopeandanchormidford.co.uk Koh Thai Tapas

36 Broad Street, Bath 01225 311232; www.koh-thai.co.uk The Locksbrook Inn

103 Locksbrook Road, Bath 01225 427119 www.thelocksbrookinn.com Mandalyns

13 Lansdown Road, Bath; 01225 425403; www.mandalyns.co.uk The Mint Room

Longmead Gospel Hall, Lower Bristol Road, Bath; 01225 446656; www.themintroom.co.uk The Marlborough Tavern

35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath 01225 423731 www.marlborough-tavern.com

Abbey Hotel Shines bright

Whatley Manor

Easton Grey, Malmesbury 01666 822888 www.whatleymanor.com The White Hart

Widcombe Hill, Bath; 01225 338053 www.whitehartbath.co.uk Woods Restaurant

9 – 13 Alfred Street; Bath; 01225 314812; www.woodsrestaurant.com

Out of town Allington Farm Shop

Allington Bar Farm, Allington Chippenham, Wilts; 01249 658112 www.allingtonfarmshop.co.uk Bunch of Grapes

14 Silver Street, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire; 01225 938088 www.thebunchofgrapes.com

Bath; 01761 470408; www.kingwilliaminn.co.uk Lucknam Park

Colerne, Wiltshire; 01225 742777 www.lucknampark.co.uk Orchardleigh House

Orchardleigh Park, Frome; 01373 472550 www.orchardleigh.net Sign of the Angel

6 Church Street, Lacock, Chippenham; 01249 730230 www.signoftheangel.co.uk Ston Easton Park

Ston Easton, Somerset; 01761 241631; www.stoneaston.co.uk Woolley grange

Woolley Green, Bradford-on-Avon 01225 864705 www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

Number 15 Great Pulteney

The Catherine Wheel

39 High Street, Marshfield Chippenham; 01225 892220 www.thecatherinewheel.co.uk

Christmas party caterers and other services

The Pump Room

Centurion Hotel

68 Combe Rd, Combe Down, Bath www.bathcrockhire.com

The Empire, Grand Parade, Bath 01225 313680 www.framptonsbar.co.uk

Royal Crescent Hotel

The Fox and Hounds Colerne

The Herd

The Scallop Shell

The Eastern Eye

8A Quiet Street, Bath 01225 422323 www.easterneye.com Framptons

12A Argyle Street, Bath 01225 316583 www.theherdrestaurant.co.uk Hilton Bath City

Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 463411; www3.hilton.com The Holburne Museum

Great Pulteney Street, Bath; 01225 388569; www.holburne.org

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

15 Great Pulteney Street, Bath 01225 807015 www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk Abbey Chambers, Church Street, Bath; 01225 444477 www.romanbaths.co.uk 16 Royal Crescent, Bath; 01225 823333; www.royalcrescent.co.uk 22 Monmouth Place, Bath; 01225 420928; www.thescallopshell.co.uk Tagine Zhor

1a North Parade, Bath; 01225 466437; www.taginezhor.co.uk Wadswick Green

The Pavilion, Roundwood Way, Off Westwells Road, Corsham 01225 584500 www.wadswickgreen.co.uk

Charlton Lane, Midsomer Norton Radstock, Somerset; 01761 417711 www.centurionhotel.co.uk 9 High Street, Colerne; 01225 744847; www.foxandhoundscolerne.co.uk The Green House

The Pavilion, Roundwood Way, Off Westwells Road, Corsham 01225 584500 www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk Hartley Farm Shop

Winsley, Bradford on Avon; 01225 864948; www.hartley-farm.co.uk King William Inn

The Old Forge, Tunley,

Bath Crockhire

Great Western Wine

Wells Road, Bath; 01225 322810 www.greatwesternwine.co.uk Larkhall Butchers

1 Lambridge Buildings, Bath; 01225 313987 www.larkhallbutchers.co.uk Snap in a Box

07720 704690; www.snapinabox.co.uk Taste of Bath

01225 683021; www.taste-of.co.uk Wild Fork West

7 Beaufort Place, Bath; 01225 426354; www.wildforkwest.co.uk

Noodle Bar

Book your Christmas Party NOW 2-3 Barton Court, Upper Borough Walls, Bath BA1 1RZ

01225 462276 • www.bonghy-bo.co.uk

01225 832296 www.hopeandanchormidford.co.uk E: hopemidford@gmail.com Midford Road, Midford, BA2 7DD

OUR CHRISTMAS MENU WILL BE AVAILABLE TO BOOK FROM 1ST DECEMBER For full Christmas menu please see our website.

2 courses £20 / 3 courses £25 We are 10 minutes south of Bath by car, or if you’re feeling fit, an easy 20 minute bike ride / 50 minute stroll along the Two Tunnels cycle path which leads straight into our car park.

OPEN ALL DAY AT WEEKENDS & BANK HOLIDAYS FROM 11.30AM

Lunch 12 -3pm Dinner 6-9.30pm • Snacks available in the afternoons Mon-Fri OPEN 11.30-3pm & 6-10.30pm • Food 12-2pm and 6-9.30pm Dogs welcome in the bar

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!

Quality food • Great location • Free delivery

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

Our new website is now LIVE!

5% off online orders www.bathsushi.co.uk 01225 330508

25% OFF

AFTERNOON TEA Including Vegan Afternoon Tea for one.

See website for details.

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

www.stoneaston.co.uk

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£23.50 FOR THREE COURSES £18.50 FOR TWO COURSES PRE-BOOKED CRACKERS INCLUDED!

STARTERS

Celeriac soup with toasted hazelnuts & a truffle oil drizzle, with crusty bread (v) Ham hock terrine with toasted malt loaf & spiced apple chutney Warm beetroot & mushroom salad on toasted rye bread (v)

MAIN COURSES Roast turkey with all the festive trimmings Cod with a citrus crust and a warm quinoa, edamame & tarragon salad (gf) Winter greens & coconut Dahl with naan and coconut yogurt raita (v,gf,df) Most mains served with roast potatoes & seasonal vegetables

Book your Christmas meal now at

The Catherine Wheel Marshfield, Bath SN14 8LR

01225 892220 roo@thecatherinewheel.co.uk www.thecatherinewheel.co.uk

PUDDINGS Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy sauce Clementine & almond cake with cream & clementine syrup (gf) Pear poached in red wine with toasted pistachios (gf,df) Cheese with chutney & savoury biscuits £6.50

Available from Friday 30th November to Sunday 30th December (excl 25 & 26 Dec)

v = vegetarian / gf = prepared using no gluten containing ingredients / df = dairy free Other allergy options available – please ask and we will try to accommodate any requests.

Celebrate WITH US

HILTON BATH CITY Where Christmas comes together Whether you choose to celebrate with a formal sit-down dinner or an informal party with sharing platters, we’ll help you craft your perfect Christmas.

FESTIVE CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE ★ PRIVATE PARTIES FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the Christmas team on 01225 788450 or email karen.watts@hilton.com

- limited space! Booking: contact@mandalyns.co.uk -

GREAT BURGERS FRESH LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE DELICIOUS COCKTAILS

MEATBUSTERS Previously Burgers and Barrels

2 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EH www.meatbusters.co.uk b a

We are a friendly, family owned inn offering hearty home cooked food, in a small country village setting.

A REAL MOROCCAN RESTAURANT, BATH

Experience real Moroccan food cooked and served in a distinctive and traditional manner together with genuine warm hospitality in absolutely beautiful Moroccan surroundings.

CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

Whether you are local or travelling from further afield, you are guaranteed a warm welcome.

PUB • RESTAURANT • FUNCTION ROOM • ACCOMMODATION

CHRISTMAS MENU NOW AVAILABLE

ARABIC & FRESH MINT TEA AND BAKLAVA • SHISHA PIPE • BAZAAR SHOP 1A North Parade Bath, BA11LF Reservations: 01225 839822 Enquiries: 01225 466437 WWW.TAGINEZHOR.CO.UK

Tunley Road, Tunley BA2 0EB

01761 470408

Email: info@kingwilliaminn.co.uk Join us on Facebook and Twitter @kingwilliam84

www.kingwilliaminn.co.uk

ELEPHANT CERAMIC, £47 Artist Lian-Jhen hand-makes a huge array of colourful, fun items at her painting and pottery studio in Larkhall From Crockadoodledo, 2 Beaufort Place, Larkhall, Bath; www.crockadoodledo.co.uk

JUGGLING ACT 2018 marks 250 years of the circus, so, inspired by the anniversary of this most pervasive, popular, born-in-Britain art form, we’ve been shopping…

JANOD STORY BOX CIRCUS, £26.99 This playset featuring lions, tigers and elephants makes for a sweet gift. Explanations as to why we don't have live animals at the circus anymore can swiftly follow From My Small World, 19-21 St Lawrence Street, Southgate, Bath; www.mysmallworld.co.uk

IRON-ON PATCHES, £8.95 Jazz up plain clothes, bags and even shoes with these ‘make do and mend’ embroidered patches by Jennie Maizels From Spotty Herberts, 5 Queen Street, Bath; www.spottyherberts.com

BIG TOP CUSHION, £85 From the Mister Berwyn range comes this luxurious velvet, duck feather-filled cushion, perfect for small and big kids alike From Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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

FAREWELL CAROUSEL, £10,000 Starkly beautiful and haunting, local artist Beth Carter’s sculpture almost appears as if it’s in motion, like someone has pressed pause on the action From Beaux Arts Bath, 12-13 York Street, Bath; www.beauxartsbath. co.uk

ED’S CHOICE JUGGLING BALLS, £7 Practice circus tricks all day long with these traditional juggling balls, which come with a handy instruction book From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www. grahamandgreen.co.uk

THE CIRCUS PRINT, £195 Sorry, we couldn’t resist. We couldn’t very well have a circus theme and not include The Circus, Bath, could we?

Here’s former Bath College of Art and Design student Sasha Barnes’ take on the historic landmark From Sasha Barnes Paintings; www.sashabarnes.co.uk

BIG TOP IS HERE COLLAGE, £35 This collage has been made using original vintage circus programmes. The artist is Peasedown St John’s Kate Matheson From Showgirls and Cowboys; www.ShowgirlsandCowboys.etsy.com

RANDER STOOL, £150 With its thick red and white stripes, this handmade ceramic stool reminds us of an old-school circus tent From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

SPINNING TOP CIRCUS GAME, £7 A perfect little retro gift choice for any nostalgic circus fan From Leak, 3 Larkhall Square, Bath

SUCCESS, £1,950 This oxidised iron resin sculpture of an acrobat striving for the perfect balance is an example of artist Emma Jean Kemp’s celebration of the the human body From ART Salon, 21 Broad Street, Bath; www.artsalon.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 139

advertising feature

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

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ANTI-FREEZE Ethylene glycol, otherwise known as anti-freeze, affects both cats and dogs and is extremely toxic. It causes clinical signs such as ataxia (wobbliness), depression, vomiting, increased drinking and urination, collapse and coma and inevitably causes renal failure and the prognosis is unfavourable.

CHOCOLATE AND RAISINS Chocolate contains a toxin called theobromine which is toxic to dogs and the higher the cocoa solids, the higher the levels of theobromine.

Clinical signs include hyperactivity, increased heart rate and convulsions.

LUMINOUS NECKLACES AND GLOW STICKS The chemical mixture within luminous jewellery and glow sticks is very irritating to the gums commonly causing dribbling, frothing, foaming at the mouth and vomiting.

MUSHROOMS AND TOADSTOOLS Some mushrooms are highly toxic to dogs but even fungi experts (mycologists) find it difficult to tell which ones are dangerous. It is best to ensure you keep all of them well out of your dog’s reach. During the colder months, also keep your pet warm and dry and for young or older dogs, putting a coat on them when out walking can help to keep them healthy.

For further advice always speak to your local veterinary practice. ■ Rosemary Lodge, Wellsway, Bath, BA2 5RL, 01225 832521 www.bathvetgroup.co.uk f Bath.Vet.Group

OUR CLINICS: • Rosemary Lodge Hospital Wellsway, Bath, BA2 5RL; 01225 832521 • Bath Cat Clinic; 4 Beaufort East, London Road, BA1 6QD; 01225 312061 • Chapel Veterinary Surgery, Forest Road, Melksham, SN12 7AA; 01225 702427 • Marshfield Veterinary Surgery; 57 High Street, Marshfield, SN14 8LR; 01225 891171 • Oldfield Park Veterinary Surgery 4 Third Avenue, Oldfield Park, BA2 3NY; 01225 423652 • Peasedown Veterinary Surgery 46 Bath Road, Peasedown St John, BA2 8DL; 01761 435673 • Saltford Veterinary Surgery; 478B Bath Road, Saltford, BS31 3DJ; 01225 872002 • Station Road Veterinary Surgery Lower Weston, BA1 3DY; 01225 428921 • Park Road Vets, 11 Park Road, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 1BX; 0117 9339 933

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 141

Š Ellis Reed

over the bridge

What links Russell Crowe, Jane Austen and Cher? The Pulteney quarter, of course.

Here, we look at what it has to offer...

By Lisa Evans

Pulteney Bridge and Weir: the view that can still take your breath away even if you see it every day

© ROY NEWPORT

street life

This bridge is one of only a handful in the world with shops on

Did you know…

The myths, legends and facts of the area, as told

by Pulteney’s retailers…

“There’s a basement under our floor, and there’s a section of tunnels going out beneath the road. It’s dark and eerie and features a steampunk-looking boiler that hasn’t been used for a long time.”

Jessica Dayman-Johns at Orvis “John Moore Sports was established over 100 years ago. A century ago, customers wouldn’t have been buying hockey sticks, heart-rate monitors and tennis rackets here, they’d have had butterfly jars, ferret muzzles and shotguns on their shopping lists.”

Rob Moore of John Moore Sports “In 1912, we supplied a chronometer which was installed on a warship for the Royal Navy. The ship was sunk in action and the chronometer lies at the bottom of the Atlantic.”

Robert Vander Woerd at E.P Mallory & Son “We have a poem mentioning our pharmacy; it’s from Jane Austen’s mother, who wrote it after recovering from a serious illness. It is framed and available to read.”

Rajen Doshi at A.H.Hale “Russell Crowe’s suicide scene in Les Misérables was filmed at Pulteney Bridge, so this confirms that it’s good enough for Hollywood.”

David Maxwell at David Maxwell Hairdressing “Ours is one of the oldest remaining chemists in the country. Established in 1826 and operating ever since, it still has all the original fixtures and fittings. It also boasts a historic Royal warrant to Queen Charlotte. People are amazed at the interior of the shop and all the history on display; they often suggest we should charge an entry fee.”

Rajen Doshi at A.H.Hale

O

ne of the most photographed examples of Georgian architecture in the city, Pulteney Bridge is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops and restaurants across its full span on both sides.

Designed in 1769 by Robert Adam, the bridge is named after Frances Pulteney, the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney.

William – a significant figure in Georgian Bath, who owned much of the land in the surrounding area – had grand plans to create a new ‘town’ to rival that of John Wood’s work in the city.

His grand scheme needed a new bridge, a remarkable bridge. The architecture is classical, with pediments, pilasters and tiny leaded domes at either end. Viewed from across the river, the bridge’s elegant arches are complemented by the curved cascades of the weir just downstream.

Let’s take a look at the bridge and its surrounding areas – Great Pulteney Street, Argyle Street, Bridge Street and Grand Parade – through the eyes of the people who work on and around it every day...

When it comes to shopping, the Pulteney area is jammed with plenty of independent businesses offering everything from the traditional and ancient to the ultramodern. You’ve got luxury fine jewellers E.P Mallory & Son, where, more than 100 years after opening, the business is still very much a family affair; Found, an original store – which used to be the offices of Bath Coal Company – that looks for the undiscovered in terms of fashion, homeware and stationary; clothing shops Hampstead Bazaar and Brora; handmade childrenswear at Up to Seven; and the luxury eyewear brand Cutler and Gross, which combines Italian craftsmanship with irrefutably cool style.

“Since its establishment in fashion’s halcyon days, the brand’s signature creativity has been applied to sunglasses and optical frames,”

“The bridge is one of only four in the world with shops on”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 143

street life says Hannah Armstrong, store manager and optometrist. “The Bath store offers the complete service – from a comprehensive eye examinations to style consultations.”

Nigel Dando, of Nigel Dando jewellers, chose to open his shop in this area due to its historic, sparklingly beautiful location, which, he says, mirrors the same properties as the items stocked in the shop; the view from the store is also an attraction. “I often get a knock on the door to simply request taking a photo of the weir from my window,” he says.

“Quite often, they find themselves drawn to items, and so their visit costs a little more than anticipated.”

As for health and beauty in the vicinity, there’s the likes of Dappa Barbershop, David Maxwell Hairdressing and Sacco Martin Hair Design, plus A.H.Hale which offers an NHS pharmacy service as well as herbal supplements.

If you’re planning on upping your fitness regime any time soon, visit John Moore Sports – independent sports and school outfitter – which was founded all the way back in 1912, and offers a mix of heritage and cutting-edge sports kit and equipment. And if you’re the outdoorsy type, then Orvis – with its country clothing, Barbour jackets, fly fishing products and dog accessories – might well be your bag.

It’s challenging picking out a place to grab a bite in this area, because there’s so much choice. There are around-the-world flavours at the likes of Asian joint Thai by the Weir, Italian at Belissima and Joya, Modern

“We’ve welcomed a number of celebrities into the shop, including Cher”

The blooming lovely Pulteney Bridge Flowers

The irrefutably cool style at Cutler and Gross

Blast from the past

A note on the history of the area, by historian Richard Wyatt of Bath Newseum • Pulteney Bridge is one of only four in the world with shops on. The other three are Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Ponte Rialto in Florence, and the Krämerbrücke in Germany.

• Just over the bridge is Laura Place and the fountain they call the ashtray. Originally the residents had grander plans for that space. They raised funds to start building their own version of Nelson’s Column but soon realised it would tower over the area, so opted for a fountain instead.

• Great Pulteney Street is one thousand feet long and one of the widest streets in the city – you could lay the Titanic down the middle, with room to spare at either end.

• Some of its side streets are short and stubby – that’s because banks collapsed in Georgian times and the crescents and squares they were meant to lead onto were never built because they ran out of money. One of them – Sunderland Street – is the shortest street in the city, with just one address.

Building plans for the street can be viewed in the Victoria Art Gallery.

© ROY NEWPORT

• Sydney Gardens was once a private, fee-paying pleasure park for grown-ups. There were grottos, labyrinths, bridleways, adult swings, plein-air dining, plus music and fireworks. Jane Austen lived across the road at number 4 Sydney Place, and loved visiting the park. www.bathnewseum.com

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

street life

What’s missing?

If Pulteney’s traders could add anything to the area, what would it be?

“It would be great to see Laura Place Fountain restored to its former glory. To have an ornate fountain would make the vista down Great Pulteney Street even more magical.”

Poppy Powell at The Bridge Coffee Shop “The Colonnades – a fantastic hidden space underneath Grand Parade – is crying out for redevelopment. I’d love to see a glass lift installed there.”

Tom Walker at Framptons

© ROY NEWPORT

© james cheadle

“We’d love to see a healthy smoothie shop for when we need to grab a boost during the day.”

Jay Hammond at Dappa Barbershop “We would like to be able to offer free parking for our customers one day.”

Jessica Dayman-Johns at Orvis

Nigel Dando’s got the eye for fine jewellery

Luxury fine jewellers E.P Mallory & Son is very much a family affair

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B EST SH IRTS IN T H E L A N D PLENTY OF MAKERS UP & DOWN THE STREET OFFER SERVICEABLE DRESS SHIRTS. THAT’S NOT OUR TERRITORY. IF, HOWEVER, YOU’RE SEARCHING FOR IMPECCABLY DESIGNED & CONSTRUCTED SHIRTS FOR COUNTRYSIDE RAMBLING TO EXPLORING THE HIGHLANDS,

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

W E ’ R E YO U R D E ST IN AT I ON .

Set over two floors with beautiful views of the Weir.

Party bookings are welcome

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VISIT YOUR LOCAL BATH STORE OR SHOP ONLINE AT ORVIS.CO.UK

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Pretty secluded garden Parties catered for | BT Sport | Dogs welcome Boutique B&B

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16 Argyle Street, Bath BA2 4BQ info@thaibytheweir.com | www.thaibytheweir.com

street life

main: Discover something different at Found; inset: Tasty treats at Framptons

Did you know…

The myths, legends and facts of the area, as told by Pulteney’s retailers…

“At the corner of Northgate Street and Bridge Street stood St Mary’s Church and the north wall of the city. In its time, the church served as both the city jail and King Edward VI’s school.

The old city walls run parallel with Bridge Street leading down to the river. This area, known as Slippery Lane, was used by ladies of ill repute.”

Robert Vander Woerd at E.P Mallory & Son “Underneath our lower level is a sub basement which links to Slippery Lane. It’s only accessible through a secret entry from behind our fridge.”

Hannah Armstrong at Cutler and Gross “Our best moment was when a Hollywood star and a member of the aristocracy both dined here on the same night.”

Tim Coffey at The Herd Steak Restaurant

French and European cuisine at Chez Dominique and Brigit’s Bakery, and best of British at The Herd Steak Restaurant. And for on-the-go snacks, head to Blue Quails Deli, Pulteney Kitchen or The Bridge Coffee Shop.

“I absolutely love Pulteney Bridge and its unique shops, most of which are family businesses,” says Poppy Powell, owner of The Bridge Coffee Shop. “We started our business when our oldest daughter was then a one-year-old, she is now nearly 11. It is still family-centered, with both my husband and myself working here.”

Sip hot drinks for a cause at Coffee House 76 – in Dorothy House – where all profits raised from the café and its pre-loved retro clothing shop go towards providing free palliative care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses.

“The Pulteney area is a real hive of activity,” says Verity Waite, retail area manager at Dorothy House. “It’s a great place for tourists to come and see some amazing sites and architecture. It’s also the home of Bath Rugby, and is a lovely area in which to eat, drink and shop.”

For something a little stronger, we like BeerCraft of Bath’s bottle shop and taproom, where you can choose from over 600 beers from around the world. And at Framptons café, bar and kitchen – which respectfully pays homage to the history of the building it’s in (the old Empire Hotel) while also offering a casually cool vibe – a cocktail or three is a regular Friday night treat for us. Grab a spot by the window to overlook the weir and the Bath Rugby stadium in the distance. But if you can’t quite see the game (you won’t), then watch it on Framptons’ huge new projector screen instead.

“A century ago, our customers would have butterfly jars, ferret muzzles and shotguns on their shopping lists”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 147

street life Indie love

The Pulteney traders’ favourite neighbouring businesses and spots…

“We adore the intricate designs at The Antique Map Shop.”

Jessica Dayman-Johns at Orvis “Beercraft, Chez Dominque and Thai by the Weir are favourites of ours.”

Olivia Blake at Found

Sitting pretty at the weir

© Ellis Reed

“We’re fond of A.H.Hale; we appreciate the heritage, the personal service and the impressive selection of herbal medicines there.”

Rob Moore of John Moore Sports

“The most exciting moment in business for us was finding this run-down, dilapidated site in such a poor state, and unearthing all of the original features during the redevelopment.” says director Tom Walker. “The Empire building was originally a hotel, paid for by the locals (everyone had to pay an additional tax). It was subsequently commandeered by the Admiralty as a HQ during World War Two before being sold privately for development into residential and commercial premises.”

On top of all of that, in the area, you’ll discover the majestic giants that are the Victoria Art Gallery and The Holburne Museum as well as other, smaller, spots – such as Bath Stamp & Coin Shop, The Mosaic Shop, The Antique Map Shop, and Pulteney Bridge Flowers – at which you’ll find art, artefacts and all manner pretty things. So treat yourself to a day out in the Pulteney quarter of Bath, and thank us later.

“We admire John Moore Sports, and I should also mention my dentist, who is also my brother, at Pulteney Dental Practice.”

Rajen Doshi at A.H.Hale

“The Herd do amazing steaks, and the cocktails at No.15 Great Pulteney Street are first class.”

David Maxwell at David Maxwell Hairdressing “We love being close to Bath Rugby – the buzz on match day is amazing. My kids love the Beazer Maze next to Pulteney Weir.”

Sarah Olivier at Chez Dominique “We love Framptons and The Pulteney Arms for after-works drinks and food. Orvis and Found are great too.”

Jay Hammond at Dappa Barbershop “I enjoy the community spirit in The Rising Sun.” Nigel Dando of Nigel Dando jewellery “Blue Quails Deli does the best hot chocolate in town, and their lunchtime curries are super tasty. We love that we have the likes of Brora and E.P Mallory & Son on the same street as us, representing British in Bath.”

Hannah Armstrong at Cutler and Gross

Josie Bahar, shop assistant at the colourful Mosaic Shop

Did you know…

The myths, legends and facts of the area, as told by Pulteney’s retailers…

“We’ve welcomed a number of celebrity customers into the shop, including Cher.”

Nigel Dando of Nigel Dando jewellery

“We were part of Duck Son & Pinker piano stores for a long time; there’s a secret window from our office that looks over the store, where the managers may have spied on their employees before the days of CCTV.” Jessica Dayman-Johns at Orvis

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

© ROY NEWPORT

“Our café was opened by Midge Ure, in 2015. This was a totally new direction for Dorothy House and has made the store a social hub within the Pulteney area.”

Verity Waite at Dorothy House

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Beauty @ No 32

32 Monmouth Street, Bath BA1 2AN; 01225 428741 Beauty @ No 32 (formally known as Jennifer Luckham Beauty Clinic) is one of Bath’s most established beauty salons and currently holds the National title of Thalgo Salon of the Year Award. Treatments offered include facials, hot lava shell massage , CACI, shellac manicures and pedicures, waxing and the salon also specialises in electrolysis hair removal offering free consultations by appointment.

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Lower Ground Suite, 3 Miles’s Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2QS; 01225 422851 www.enhancemedispa.co.uk Enhance, a new independent Medispa in the heart of Bath, specialises in beauty and aesthetic treatments.

Every therapist has their own niche within the salon.

Some specialise in aesthetic treatments such as laser & IPL, and others lashes, waxing and nails. This means that every client receives the best possible treatment.

We also offer dermaplaning which removes peach fuzz and rough dull dead skin cells, creating a smoother brighter complexion, as well as laser leg vein removal; two completely different treatments which are very unique to Enhance.

Enhance is exceptionally decorated with an inviting atmosphere, offering the most updated and specialised treatments is what sets us apart from all other salons.

11 Claverton Buildings, Widcombe, Bath BA2 4LD; 01225 311332; www.bhairdressing.co.uk The philosophy of B Hairdressing is “hairdressing outside the lines”: cruelty free, gender neutral, ethical, luxury and all things creative. They are so much more than fantastic hairdressing, committed to supporting local companies like ‘ Tea Huggers’ and ‘Bath Water’, all vegan cakes that accompany the refreshments come from a different local company each month. Two core values of B Hairdressing is being ethical and cruelty free everything is recycled wherever possible and every single product used in the salon is cruelty free even down to the Paul Mitchell hair colourant containing cotton seed oil, rice milk and artificial beeswax leaving hair glossy and conditioned. Even better it’s vegan!

Harriet, Sam and the team look forward to welcoming clients old and new to their salon in Widcombe.

the orangery laser & beauty clinic

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We are the experts in skin health, aesthetics and advanced beauty treatments and pride ourselves on delivering a professional service with excellent customer care from a small, friendly team of highly experienced beauty therapists, IPL and laser technicians.

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Seeing into the future

Quote of the issue

“I LEARNED TO DO EVERYTHING SETTING UP My BUSINESS, AND THEN REALISED IT’S IMPOSSBILE TO DO IT ALL YOURSELF ”

Margot Singleton chats about building her Pilates academy, on page 156

WEST IS BEST

The Big Number

A multi-million pound investment into the universities and businesses in Bath is set to grow the creative technology sector in the region

A

collaboration between universities in the West of England – including Bath Spa University and University of Bath – and businesses in the creative technology sector is to receive a multi-million pound investment from the Arts and Humanities Research Council’s (AHRC) Creative Industries Clusters Programme, to support, connect and amplify the brilliant work that takes place in the region.

The collaboration, known as the Bristol and Bath Creative Research and Development (R&D) Programme, will see local universities lead the way in inclusive innovation and growth, while businesses involved in the

“Bristol and Bath were identified as one of three regions outside London to have international growth potential”

programme will include those working across design, broadcast, performance, technology, publishing, and other sectors.

Reflecting on the investment, which supports the Government’s Industrial Strategy, professor Kate Pullinger, director of the Centre for Culture and Creative Industries at Bath Spa University, says, “We are delighted to be a part of this exciting collaboration.

Bath has a long history of cultural innovation, and this programme will enable us to continue to spread that work across the region. This partnership between Bristol and Bath’s four universities, together with Watershed and key business partners, will create the conditions for a real step-change in activity, enabling the use of creative

£18M

This is how much Butcombe Brewery was bought for

technologies to be better harnessed alongside the region’s burgeoning creative and cultural sector.”

Following an independent review, Bristol and Bath were identified by the Bazalgette Report as one of three regions outside London to have international growth potential. Through a mix of development labs, fellowship schemes and large project funding, the Bristol and Bath Creative R&D)Programme will build on existing strengths in the region including immersive experiences, live performance and 5G.Every programme will include new talent fellows who will be supported to think about innovation in a digitally-minded way.

For more: www.bathspa.ac.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 155 115

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“I REALISED I WANTED TO CREATE A BUSINESS THAT MADE PEOPLE FEEL BETTER” hour or two a day, but the rest of the time is spent at our desk, sitting in our car or on our sofas watching TV at night. Our bodies become stiff and we become unable to move all of our body parts, so parts of the body maybe don’t move at all.

ONE TO WATCH

Margo Singleton is the founder and director of Bath Pilates Academy, and is passionate about helping people feel better through Pilates, movement and relaxation practice.

We caught up to talk about aches and pains, getting a happy body and why Pilates is accessible to everyone How did you get started in Pilates?

I started just after my son was born in 1998. Back then, it wasn’t as popular or available as it is now. I stumbled across a studio in London where we lived at the time.

I fell in love with Pilates during my first lesson. We used studio equipment in a circuit style and the teaching was so different to any other exercise class I had been to because the instructors really cared about the way you moved, checked your alignment and gave you a personalised circuit to suit you.

At the time, I worked for an international hotel chain and travelled around the world, working with our overseas hotels.

What inspired you to set up Bath Pilates Academy?

In 2009, I decided that it was time to change my focus and stop travelling.

I had moved to Bath by then and my children were coming up to 156 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

secondary school age and I wanted to be home with them rather than travelling every week. It was during a trip to Dubai that I realised I wanted to create a business that made people feel better. I was tired and trying to please everybody first, which just wasn’t working. Pilates was the one exercise programme that helped me whenever I was stressed or stiff from sitting too much in meetings and travelling. I trained in 2011 and 2012 with Body Control Pilates, based in London, and then set up my company.

You teach people with aches and pains – what do you think is the most common cause of these tensions?

Most people’s lives are mainly sedentary. That sedentary lifestyle will lead to backache, stressful jobs into neck and shoulder problems, and the busier we are at our computers, the less we move our body. Some people may exercise an

You went from working for a global hotel company to this – quite a change. What did you learn about starting up your own business?

I learned to do everything setting up my business, and then realised it’s impossible to do it all yourself. I had a really good look at what I was best at concentrating on, and then found people to help me with the bits I wasn’t so good at. I learned patience, that you can’t build a business in a day, and that resiliance is a great quality to have.

What advice would you give someone who wanted to start up their own business?

I’d say make sure the business is something you enjoy doing all the time. Network and find like-minded people to support you and share advice with. I’m part of a couple of brilliant networking groups, without whom I would be struggling in terms of offering sound advice.

Also, stay true to your values, do things with integrity and self-belief, and enjoy yourself.

Tell us about the challenges and benefits of being your own boss...

The major challenge is being a sole trader, which means all the decisions you make are your own (which is why the network of small businesses is important). The benefits are too many to list in comparison to working on the corporate ladder.

Pilates can really help people, and when you can see how much better your client can feel once they have been to a class or a studio session, it makes everything worthwhile.

Pilates has become mainstream in recent years – why do you think this is?

Pilates is accessible to anyone

whatever their fitness level. So whether you are an athlete looking to improve performance, recovering from injury or somewhere in-between then you can find a level of Pilates that suits you. The exercises strengthen your core, which encourages better alignment, posture and stability. There are more and more people teaching Pilates and so mat classes are available and accessible in a local church hall, social club or studio close to you.

What sets your classes apart from other ones?

I hope my clients agree that my classes are enjoyable and they learn a lot from them – about selfawareness in the body, and how the body moves so that they appreciate it and look after it when they have left the studio. My classes are relaxed, educational and, best of all, we create happy minds and bodies.

We do something different every week, so there is variety which keeps everyone interested and focussed on their movement.

What is the best feedback you’ve had from someone attending one of your classes?

Every day, I get amazing feedback and happy bodies leaving my classes. I just had an email from a lady suffering from severe lower back pain who had been off for a couple of weeks. She decided to come to class despite feeling very stiff and immobilized. When she got home she felt so much better and wrote to me because she went on her first walk in two months the following day. That made me feel so grateful that I found Pilates so many years ago and I can now share the practice with my wonderful clients many of whom have been with me since I started up five years ago.

For more: www.bathpilatesacademy.uk

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BATH RUGBY NEWS

Bringing you the latest from the Bath Rugby headquarters

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 1 OCTOBER CURRY AND MINGLE The Bath Property Curry Club offers people the opportunity to informally network, mingle, and meet other property professionals and businesses operating in and around Bath over a curry and a drink. All property related services are welcome. 6pm, £21.61,The Bengal Bear, Box; @TheBathPropertyCurryClub

Jonathan Wood and Lucy Aston

3 OCTOBER LENDING ROADSHOW The specialist lending roadshow will feature knowledgeable industry speakers and will cover a range of topics related to specialist lending, including available products, regulatory issues and more. 9.30am2pm; Bath Racecourse; www. specialistlendingroadshow.co.uk

Bath Rugby Foundation has teamed up with award-winning specialist children’s yoga company Yogadoo to run the Stand Tall programme, which helps pupils who can’t access normal classroom learning due to social and emotional challenges.

Specialist young people’s teachers from Yogadoo will pair with education officers from the charity to work together in schools throughout B&NES to help young people manage stressful and challenging times through yoga and meditation.

Yogadoo Founder Lucy Aston says, “The aims and goals of the Bath Rugby Foundation and Yogadoo are very closely aligned to empower young people and give them valuable life skills, to increase their resilience and to find ways to look after their

physical and mental health.

There is a natural fit with the work Yogadoo is already doing in schools and the projects run by the Bath Rugby Foundation.”

Bath Rugby Foundation’s education programme leader, Jonathan Wood says, “Yogadoo helps the children deal with complex life issues in an ever more challenging world for young people.

“Children face more pressure than ever before, and our programme is helping them to become more resilient and to deal with their emotions.”

After the initial six-week pilot programme at two local schools, St Michael’s in Twerton and The Manor in Melksham, Yogadoo and Bath Rugby Foundation plan to roll out the scheme across B&NES and the surrounding area.

3 OCTOBER WOMEN’S BUSINESS CLUB Connect with successful business women in person over a healthy lunch with business talks that will leave you inspired and raring to go.11.30-14.00;

For more: www.bathrugby.com

www.spacesworks.com

www.womensbusiness.club

11 OCTOBER NETWORKING BREAKFAST Network with other small business owners at the Boston Tea Party breakfast where this month’s topic will be ‘Why I run my own business.’

6am-10am; www.smallbusinessfocus.co.uk

18 OCTOBER NETWORKING AND NIBBLES Bath Chamber of Commerce and Visit Bath are hosting a networking and nibbles event at SPACES Bath. The evening will include a tour of the facilities at SPACES. 6pm-8pm;

Janette Woodland, Mowbray Woodward

SIMPLY THE BEST

The Bath Priory has been made a Relais & Chateaux property – the only hotel in the city to be a member of this luxury association. Featuring only the very best hotels worldwide, to become a Relais & Châteaux hotel each member hotel must not only display the very highest standards of hospitality and service, but also welcome guests with personality, warmth and a passion to share their location.

Andrew Brownsword, owner of The Bath Priory together with his wife Christina comments, “We are delighted that The Bath Priory has become a member of Relais & Châteaux. As the very first hotel we purchased, back in 1994, and in our home city, The Bath Priory is particularly close to our hearts.

For more: thebathpriory.co.uk

HEAD ON

Bath law firm Mowbray Woodwards has appointed Janette Woodland as associate and head of commercial property for their Commercial Law team.

Mowbray Woodwards’ managing partner, Tracey Smith, says “We are delighted that Janette has joined the firm. Janette’s experience and specialism in commercial property fits well with the needs of our clients and alongside our property litigation expert, means we can provide our private and commercial property clients with joined-up advice for all of their legal needs.”

For more: www.bishopfleming.co.uk

FAB FOUR

The Bath and Bristol offices of Top 30 advisory firm, Bishop Fleming, continue to expand with the recruitment of four new managers – Joe Grimes, John Mitchell, Michael Pallot and Christian Crawford – to help keep pace with growth in the region’s economy.

Mr. Williams says, “With the economies of both Bath and Bristol continuing to grow, we are recruiting to reflect the increasing demand for our tax and audit services, as well as continuing to develop our existing teams with professional training programmes.”

For more: www.bishopfleming.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 157

SPONSORED BY:

BUSINESS INSIDER

FANTASTIC FOUR

Boudavida – the new shop in milsom Place

Our pick of the most exciting, intriguing or important local business stories right now Stylish interiors at the re-branded The Bird Hotel

HELLO BIRDIE

The County Hotel on Pulteney Road has rebranded as The Bird, Bath to fit in with its distinctive new personality. Owners Ian and Christa Taylor, who bought the property back in March this year, chose the name to reflect the vibrant transformation of the hotel, which in the initial phases has seen refreshed public spaces, additional bedrooms, a new bar, restaurant and meeting spaces, as well as a much-loved pop-up beach bar.

“Creating something new and exciting for Bath is something we love to do, and we’re really pleased with the transformation of The Bird so far,” says Ian Taylor. “The new signage is now up, and we have plans in the pipeline for some interesting dressing to the front of the hotel to coincide with our winter wonderland for the festive season. We don’t want to give too much away, but we hope people will come and experience it for themselves.”

Joining The Bird as general manager, is a well-known face in Bath’s business community, Tim O’Sullivan, who played an instrumental role in the opening of Apex City of Bath.

For more: www.thebirdbath.co.uk

Anabel Sexton says, “We are excited to be opening our first Boudavida store in the heart of Bath. We feel the Milsom Place location is perfect for creating a really personal shopping environment, and we’re looking forward to introducing many new customers to our activewear brand.”

Boudavida plans to offer a range of fitness classes, which will also be held in the Milsom Place premises.

These classes aim to encourage more women and girls to get active.

For more: www.boudavida.com

WE HAVE LIFT OFF

Rocketmakers moved into Manvers Street this summer, and their new workspace features the team’s very own rocket. The rocket doubles up as a seating area and offers a combination of individual and collaborative working areas, meaning staff members can choose to work how and where they think best.The bold office interior was

created by Bath-based office design and build company Interaction, who designed other features for the office including tiered seating, a vibrant colour palette and spacethemed touches around every corner.

Commenting on their new space, Founder and CEO Richard Godfrey says, “Thanks to their hard work, the Rocketmakers team and I now have a workplace to be proud of – it embodies our core values of working hard but having fun at the same time. I’m already seeing the positive effect the space is having on our team and customers; it’s inspiring and offers everything we need to function as a modern, creative and innovative firm. A great plus is that team members are free to work where they want, whether that be in the breakout, on the hot desks, or in our very own rocket.

For more www.rocketmakers.com

ON YOUR MARKS

Boudavida is hugely excited to announce the opening of its first store, in Milsom Place.The activewear brand was created and founded in Somerset and, up until now, sold their products online.

Commenting on the launch, founder and CEO of Boudavida,

The eye-catching new office at Rocketmakers

Mingling at the launch of the Bath Property Awards

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Nominations for The Bath Property Awards are now open, following a jam-packed launch event at the Apex Hotel, which saw the announcement of the panel of judges.

Over 110 companies are involved so far, whether as sponsors, judges, nominees or attendees. The Bath Property Awards will be held on 23 November and will be hosted by property TV show host Martin Roberts. Before the event, hopeful winners and supporting companies will be invited to attend the Sponsors’ and finalists’ reception on 22 October at Circo.

Event Director Steph Dodd comments, “It’s been inspiring to see the volume of nominations flowing in for the first-ever Bath Property Awards. If you’ve not entered yet, there’s still time – but you’ll really need to act swiftly as the deadline is fast approaching.”

The closing date for businesses to register is 4 October.

While category sponsorships are no longer available, other opportunities may remain. Contact Rosanna Hood to find out more: rosanna.hood@mediaclash.co.uk For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 159

BUSINESS INSIDER

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2018

So, how did it feel to win a Bath Life award?

A huge badge of honour. It feels like winning a lifetime achievement award – not just for the work we have done recently but the foundations we've laid over the last 12 years.

ARTS WINNER

bespoke work. We are small enough to be truly adaptable and to listen genuinely to the people we work with, but at the same time, we remain true to our grand ambition: to save the world with theatre!

We celebrate in small ways every day.

We hold our heads up a little higher.

Where is your award now?

What do you love most about your job?

At the bottom of a cardboard box, waiting to be unpacked. We've just moved into an office at The Rondo in Larkhall, you see.

We pursue our own passions. We make work that makes a difference, and we mix with a huge range of people – we talk with crowds and walk with kings.

Why do you think you won?

As a company, what sets you apart?

We are socially engaged & create

Winners Caroline Garland and Oliver Garland

SPONSORED BY

How did you celebrate?

The judges recognised the variety of our portfolio. Kilter is a quiet force behind a lot of arts activities locally and further afield: walkie-talkies, foraged fictions, public engagement, community arts...

© JENI MEADE

Artistic director of Kilter Theatre, Oliver Langdon, tells us about the unique theatre company, his passion for the job and what exciting projects are in the pipeline

“KILTER IS A QUIET FORCE BEHIND A LOT OF ARTS ACTIVITIES LOCALLY”

What do you love most about working in Bath?

The secrets. Scratch the surface and you're like Alice down a rabbit hole.

We'll never run out of stories.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Conceive it like a dream. Don't let pragmatism stand in your way.

Business heroes?

Kneehigh – the national theatre of Cornwall. Pioneering from the provinces and to their own selves true.

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

We are on the hunt for an Arts Barn: a space in the countryside near Bath that we can convert to a working arts space for us to make and host new work, and as a space for visiting artists to tune out of their hectic modern lives and tune in to the things that really matter. Got a barn?

Let us know!

Tell us something about yourself or the company that might surprise us…

We're about to start a year-long collaboration with quantum researchers at Bristol University.

For more: www.kiltertheatre.org

SPONSORED BY:

What does Mark Crowther look for in a pub acquisition?

• Open businesses – “We don’t buy shut pubs, I’d rather buy something that’s got a deliverable, sustainable track record • Usually freehold businesses – “We are 70 per cent freehold” Mark tells us his company has grown ‘this much’

size, it had the brewer and 19 mostly freehold pubs around the Bristol and Bath area.”

BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB

PINTS WEST

Mark Crowther, then man behind local company Butcombe Brewery spoke at the Bath Life Business Club lunch about how he’s built up the company, why he’s happy for the brand not to be cool, and why he called their latest beer Nude “I always had in my mind that I wanted to own something.”

It’s safe to say Mark Crowther’s ambition has been realised – his company, Liberation Group and sister group Butcombe Brewery, are now the leading drinks and pubs business across the Channel Islands and West Country, with nearly 100 predominantly freehold pubs, and two breweries in Jersey and Bristol.

LIBERATION IS BORN After extensive experience in the food and drink sector, running global pub and beer companies, Mark set about finding his own company. “I was in my late 30s, looking at buyouts, and there was a business called CI Traders, a Channel Island company.

It was a freehold company, and that was what underpinned it.”

It became Liberation, an independent beer and pub company.

“As you know, the Channel Islands were under occupation during WWII so it’s quite a poignant name,

and it worked for a name. It’s a big part of their history and heritage.

Although Liberation is only 10years old, our brewery is 140 years old, the Germans actually brought over people to keep the brewery running during the Second World War.” GETTING OFF THE ROCKS Mark grew the Liberation group – it now boasts 70 pubs across Guernsey and Jersey – and decided to extend the business. “We’d been in the Channel Islands for six or seven years, and I was keen to get some new backers in, and, to do that, we needed a growth story. So we needed to get off the rocks and come to the UK.” After discounting France (their pub culture was too different) and Brighton (it was too cool) Mark decided the West Country was the place to grow the business, and, in November 2015, he bought Butcombe Brewery for £18 million.

“I live in Freshford, just outside Bath, I knew the Butcombe business and owners pretty well – it just kind of worked for us; it was just the right

“OVER HALF OUR STAFF ARE 25 AND UNDER, HALF MALE, HALF FEMALE – SO A REALLY YOUNG, VIBRANT DEMOGRAPHIC “ 162 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

CHALLENGES ALONG THE WAY While the deal for Butcombe had the usual complexities and stresses of any acquisition, the subsequent refinancing in 2016 was particularly fraught. “Our biggest issue came when we were due to sign – on the morning of the Brexit result. That was just the worst feeling ever because we’d spent 18 months preparing the business for this moment. I was in the middle trying to keep everyone together and make it happen. Ten days later, we were all sat around the table signing off the deal.”

THE VISION So what about the day-to-day running of Butcombe Brewery business? “As a business we try and be very informal.

When we bought the original Liberation business, everyone was wearing a suit and a tie, whereas over half our staff are 25 and under, half male, half female – so a really young, vibrant demographic – and if you’re not there with a pair of jeans on, they wont engage with you.

“We’ve also tried to bring more energy to the business, a bit more sense of urgency and drive. We don’t have big committees and sign-off procedures.”

When asked if he wanted Butcombe to be a cool brand, Mark replied, “No, I don’t think so. A bit like our Liberation group, it’s just a really good solid business and beer, and I think that’s why it trades and that why it’s successful. It’s all about being consistent and the quality.”

“One of the things I like about pubs is that they are individual, they’re really important for their local communities. For example, the Pig and Fiddle is an iconic Bath pub with rugby, live music, students.

I wouldn’t take my mum and dad there for supper on a Saturday night necessarily but it’s a fantastic pub, and it’s very different to The Methuen Arms in Corsham where we’ve got a great chef, and a kitchen garden.”

• Investing – “We don’t mind if we have to invest to take it to the next level, but it’s got to be a great long-term vision” • It’s all about the pubs – “We don’t do late-night stuff, uber trendy cocktail bars”

WHAT’S NEXT? Currently, adding accommodation to existing pubs is the big development, and it is clear why the formula works.

“Ours are very much pubs with rooms. The person staying with us tends to eat with us because they’re staying upstairs. They might have a pint at the pub before they go up – for us it’s about getting more out of our assets. Through acquisition, we’ll continue to add rooms to our new and existing buildings.”

The company is also concocting new ciders and some craft beers – interestingly, Mark cites that although much is said about the ‘craft beer revolution,’ it accounts for only four per cent of the beer market by volume. One of their most recent beer creations is called Nude.“The inspiration comes from looking at what famous things happened in 1978 (the year Butcombe was founded), and Brighton nudist beach opened in 1978 – so that’s were it got its name from.”

Mark finished up by talking about advice he would give to others setting up on their own.“If you’ve got a dream or a vision, really try and go after it.

I had to put my house on the line, every bit of my savings and gear up.

Surround yourself with good people, stress-test your business idea, then go for it.” ■ For more: www.www.butcombe.com

FRESH THINKING OVER A FINE LUNCH The Bath Life Business Club brings together a select group of senior business people. It features a leading speaker and a two-course lunch at The Royal Crescent Hotel.

The next is on 29 October, with managing director of First West of England, James Freeman. If you’d like to join, please contact Stephanie Dodd (Stephanie.

Dodd@mediaclash.co.uk). These events sell out quickly, so look out for the emails...

The Bath Life Business Club is sponsored by Bishop Fleming.

www.bathlifebusinessclub.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Making tax digital – are you ready?

Matthew Rutter from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY weighs up the pros and cons…

Y

ou may have heard in the news about the Government’s plans to phase in its Making Tax Digital (MTD) system.

According to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), approximately £4bn per year is lost in simple VAT mistakes alone and it hopes that the introduction of MTD will assist in reducing the errors made and thereby reduce the tax lost.

Over the coming years, it is anticipated that all the main taxes will move towards a fully digital tax system in what will represent one of the most fundamental changes to the tax system for decades.

The changes have already begun. Digital tax accounts for individuals have been created

by HMRC. Meanwhile, businesses should be preparing for the introduction of “MTD for VAT” which becomes mandatory with effect from 1 April 2019. There have already been several postponements to the original timescales for the introduction of MTD and it wasn’t until July this year that HMRC published their detailed guidance on MTD for VAT (in the form of VAT Notice 700/22). The rest of this article will focus on MTD for VAT because this is where urgent action is needed by affected businesses within a relatively short timescale to ensure that they are prepared for the changes. All other taxpayers should be aware that HMRC plan to extend MTD to other taxes including Income Tax and Corporation Tax, perhaps as early as April 2020.

Matthew Rutter, a partner at Pearson May

MAKING TAX DIGITAL FOR VAT The first group of taxpayers to face mandatory MTD requirements will be VAT registered businesses with an annual taxable turnover above the registration threshold of £85,000.

The requirements will remain in place even if such businesses subsequently fall below the threshold, unless they completely deregister from VAT. Many businesses will already be used to filing their VAT return online through HMRC’s gateway, but under MTD for VAT, this in isolation will no longer be an option and the new requirements represent a major change. From 1 April 2019, affected businesses will have to keep digital records for VAT purposes and file their VAT returns digitally using MTD compatible software. This software must be capable of recording and preserving records in a digital form, sending VAT returns and information to HMRC directly from the software, and receiving information from HMRC. The major accounting software providers are developing or upgrading their products so that they will enable users to meet the record keeping and filing requirements.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR MTD FOR VAT The changes are so fundamental that those businesses affected will need to review their record keeping systems and plan ahead to make sure that they have a software solution that will comply with the new MTD requirements in time.

Businesses that currently keep their accounting records on accounting software should review their software to ensure that it is compatible. Sufficient time should be allowed to upgrade or replace this software if necessary.

Many businesses will currently be using spreadsheets as part of their VAT records.

Under the proposals, spreadsheets alone will not satisfy the MTD requirements. There will need to be a digital link from the spreadsheet to HMRC’s systems in order to submit the VAT return data directly to HMRC, which could be challenging. Such businesses may prefer to take the opportunity to move onto an accounting software package. A lot of software providers now offer “cloud-based” systems, which means that the data can generally be accessed from any device with an internet connection. This can increase efficiency, and it also enables the data to be shared within the organisation and with accountants, bookkeepers etc.

Businesses who maintain their accounting records manually, such as using cashbooks etc., will need to decide whether they can implement compatible software or consider what additional support they will need. They will need to think about whether they have the necessary time, resources, inclination and expertise to process the accounting transactions digitally by themselves. They may wish to engage the services of a bookkeeper to maintain their accounting records using MTD compliant software, or of course seek assistance from their accountant.

Businesses that currently engage their accountant or bookkeeper to prepare and submit their VAT returns to HMRC should check with them that they are prepared for the changes. They may find that their accountant will recommend changes to the format in which information is supplied to promote efficiency with the new system.

Affected businesses may want to start implementing their procedures for MTD for VAT as soon as possible in order to trial their new systems and to make sure that they are compliant before it becomes compulsory.

The above is for general guidance only and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice of electricity and electric charging points, either at the employer’s premises or at the employee’s home. Electricity is not classed as ‘fuel’ for these purposes, so the flat rate fuel benefit referred to above (£23,400) does not apply to the provision of electricity. As long as the employer contracts directly to install electric charging points and/ or provide electricity for charging company cars, a taxable benefit on these costs can often be avoided completely. ■

Matthew Rutter BSc(Hons) FCA CTA Pearson May Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers Bath, Chippenham and Trowbridge 37 Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DA 01225 460491 mail@pearsonmay.co.uk www.pearsonmay.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 165

advertising feature

Meet the creative agency

Meet the professionals making waves in the Bath’s marketing and design industry

Mytton Williams 01225 476 476 myttonwilliams.co.uk

gary squires and Vicky Windsor Directors, Creatrix PR

What do you do?

We design simple, smart, timeless brand communciations for ambitious clients. We apply that brand thinking across all media to help organisations stand out, get their message across clearly and connect with their audience. Clients have included: Abel & Imray, Bath Spa University, No.15 Great Pulteney, Thermae Bath Spa, Time Out and Waitrose.

01225 423400; www.creatrixpr.co.uk How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

The way in which messaging reaches audiences has changed dramatically in the past 10 years. The shift to online media has meant businesses need a higher volume of quality content than ever before. Aside from press releases for media outlets, there are blogs, news stories for websites and social media – all of which need fresh, regular content.

What do you specialise in?

We work with a wide cross-section of companies including both b2b and b2c. In particular we have created a niche for our company working with developers on projects throughout the UK, helping to communicate the key messages of proposals to all interested parties. A big part of our work is coordinating public exhibitions and consultations – we do everything in-house from start to finish including writing content, designing materials, organising events and collecting and analysing feedback.

Which clients/accounts are you currently working on?

We’re proud to work for some great businesses in and around Bath including Bath Rugby, Bath City FC, Crest Nicholson, super-yacht designer Reymond Langton, HPH Commercial Property and Prior Park. Further afield we work for UK holiday resort company Haulfryn, Land’s End Pasty Company, retirement development company Rangeford and other national property developers.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

We are a small, award-winning team, with a vast amount of experience. We pride ourselves on developing robust brand strategies and well thought-through, effective design that results in brand communications that change perceptions, engage customers, inspire investors and assist growth. Creating designs that are simple but powerful – the less is more approach – is something we believe in and we work hard to achieve.

technology to transform the organisation and its customer experience.

Nathan Baranowski OJO SOLutions

www.ojosolutions.com Twitter: @ojosolutions What do you do?

We transform organisations through technology, enabling people to see the change, make the change and live the change. Our job is to understand an organisation’s strategic objectives and challenges, translate them into technology requirements and define the solutions that bring it all together.

Managing the transformation, designing, developing and integrating the new

166 I Bath LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What are your plans for the next 12 months?

Side projects are really important to us as an agency. They are good for the team and help us grow creatively. This year we’ve embarked on a project called Made in Bath. We wanted to celebrate some of the exceptionally talented organisations based in Bath that share our ethos of producing beautifully crafted, sustainable work. We will launch our coffee table book this autumn. Their stories are fascinating and we would like to do more around the community of makers.

What bespoke services do you offer your clients?

Everything we do is tailored to our clients’ needs and every project is different. We work with everyone from start-ups, to international businesses and charities. Our projects range from multimillion-pound, multi-year transformation to delivering apps, websites and system integrations and creating new service offerings and businesses through technology. Be it a technology strategy or fully bespoke application, we work from visions and ideas rather than templates, to build the future.

What is your favourite part of the job?

The fact that technology offers endless possibilities and keeps us all on our toes.

That, and the fact we get to champion ‘technology for good’; using technology to deliver real benefits to society and the world at large, and investing in projects and social enterprises that we believe in.

advertising feature

Steve Osborne

How did you come to be based in Bath?

It’s my UK version of Amsterdam, where I lived for 7 years in my previous role. The Dutch have a term - ‘leefbaar’ - which roughly translates as ‘easy to live in’. I’ve had a 15 minute commute since 1995 and I intend to keep it that way! Besides that both cities thrive on being beautiful and interesting, and in that sense they are strong brands too.

Osborne Pike

01225 489269 osbornepike.co.uk What sets you apart from other agencies?

We’ve been established for 16 years but we’ve deliberately kept our agency small. Our senior team has shedloads of experience from successful London agencies, so we see ourselves as a ‘big agency in a small package’.

What do you specialize in?

We focus on branding and packaging, and 90% of our work is in food and drink. Our clients range from global multinationals to entrepreneurs and start-ups, which exposes us to pretty much every trend in eating, drinking and shopping.

Toby Brown

Edit; 01225 480 480; edit.co.uk What does your agency do?

We’re a marketing agency with a broad range of skills, from SEO and media planning to incredibly clever stuff with data, machine learning and marketing technology. We’re unique in that we seamlessly link acquisition (finding new customers and getting them to act) and CRM (keeping them loyal and engaged), so we’re basically “finders, keepers” if you will.

How can you give value to a potential client?

The marketing landscape gets more confusing every day. Clients often find it hard to

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?

Out of all recognition, yet in some ways not at all. Brand design will always be about human psychology: adding an intangible desire to what is often a good product, but no better than a dozen others.

But we are entering an era in which digital disruption is already changing brands profoundly. Online shopping removes the seductive role of packaging. Direct to Consumer (DTC) brands change its role, from selling to customer experience. Digital and social media mean that a brand’s instagram may have more influence than a TV commercial. So the future of branding won’t be boring!

understand the impacts and interplay of their various marketing channels, and what the most effective ways to communicate to their audiences are. What impact does their TV campaign have on PPC? Where are the gaps in their marketing technology? What the hell is a blockchain and why won’t people shut up about it? We offer value by stripping out all the noise and focussing on what works – making elegantly simple solutions to complex marketing problems, whether that’s a chatbot, a TV campaign or some high-impact digital PR. What are your plans for the next 12 months?

Edit is the result of a merger of four brilliant business, Response One, Branded3, Occam and Amaze One, so we’re fully focussed on bringing our teams across London, Bath and Leeds together to deliver outstanding work.

We know how important workplace culture is to the success of a company, so we’ve set our sights on being a Top 100 employer. We’re also really enjoying becoming more involved with the booming Westcountry business, creative and tech communities – using our Editorium to host local events, running workshops, diving into the Bath Digital Festival and generally making ourselves useful. You’ll probably see us around!

Jamie Gallagher Founder, Hello

www.01134.co.uk; Twitter: @01134 Instagram: @01134studio What do you do?

We’re a branding agency; we specialise in working with the owners of brands with high-growth potential, companies that are on a journey and are fired up to grow, fast. Our clients all have a sense of adventure, they’re brave and ambitious, this makes for exciting work and big results.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

I guess it’s the extra-curricular stuff that really separates us. As a highly creative agency it’s essential that we keep learning and playing to really push boundaries for our clients. We have a big R&D programme where we are exploring the opportunities virtual and augmented reality can offer brands. We have a new content division that self-publishes and creates unique content for us and our clients. We also co-founded Werkhouse (werkhouse.co.uk), an industry-led design education initiative, to address the exclusivity of university based pathways into our industry.

What’s the biggest marketing mistake you see businesses make?

The biggest mistake most companies make is talking about themselves too much. It’s easy to wax lyrical about how good you are, but consumers really just want to know what you can do for them and why you’re relevant; understanding their needs, and communicating simply and with clarity that your core purpose is aligned with their needs and values, is the key to effective marketing.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 167

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Parental gifting...

Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains…

L

ast month I wrote here about the ‘sandwich generation’. We are often approached by members of this group of people for advice relating to sums left to them by a parent which (or some of which) they want to pass on immediately to their own children who are starting out in life and need the money more than they do. How best to go about this?

It is possible for a parent to make a gift to a child, but, in this situation, there can be a downside of doing things this way because Inheritance Tax is charged by reference to very specific moments in time. If A inherits from his mother and immediately passes on what is due to him to his own children by way of gift, then, if A dies within the next seven years, the value of what he was left by his mother but gave away will be added into the value of his own estate for the purposes of calculating the Inheritance Tax due on his own estate. So although he has never had the money in his own hands, to the extent that it pushes the value of A’s estate over the Inheritance Tax, threshold tax will be levied on it at 40%. And in addition, A may incur a Capital Gains Tax liability on what he has given.

Some people ask us if they can ‘disclaim’ what is left to them in a Will and again that is possible and would overcome the Inheritance Tax and Capital gains Tax problems which could have been created for A by a gift – but where the sum disclaimed ends up is not under A’s control. It will depend entirely upon the wording of the Will in which the bequest was made– or if there was no Will, upon the laws of intestacy – and, in the situation above, that is unlikely to be with A’s children.

There is a third, simple way of achieving what is required which avoids these problems.

The law permits the terms of a deceased person’s Will, or the way in which the laws of intestacy dictate the ultimate destination of their assets, to be changed by way of a Deed of Variation, under the terms of which a beneficiary (A in the examples above) may

“SOME PEOPLE ASK US IF THEY CAN ‘DISCLAIM’ WHAT IS LEFT TO THEM IN A WILL”

redirect what he or she was to have received elsewhere (in A’s case to his children). In this case the gift which was to have been received

by A is re-directed to his children in the Deed and the effect for tax purposes is as if A had never been a beneficiary and instead his children had. So, no seven-year problem and the potentially undesirable Inheritance Tax and (in most cases) Capital Gains Tax consequences of a gift or disclaimer are avoided.

There are other situations in which a Deed of this kind can be useful. They include ensuring that a variety of Inheritance Tax allowances (most commonly, and often crucially, the new ‘RNRB’ which increases the amount of a person’s Inheritance Tax exemption by £125,000 if he or she leaves their interest in the family home to their direct descendants - but also Charity, Agricultural Property and Business Property reliefs) are used to maximum effect.

There are, as always, rules about how such a Deed should be set up to be effective for tax purposes.

• The Deed must be made within two years of the date of the death of the deceased.

• The person who wishes to amend the terms of the Will must sign the Deed and can only

vary what it left to them; they cannot amend the terms under which someone else named in the Will inherits.

• The same gift cannot be varied more than once (so it is important to get it right first time around!)

• And a Deed cannot be made for consideration from an outside source – in other words, the original beneficiary (A) must not receive payment from outside the estate for giving up his entitlement.

If you find yourself in the position of inheriting and are not sure of the tax implications for you or other members of your family, see a solicitor and get advice. ■

Helen Starkie Solicitor 5 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 169

a placeto call home

property a pl ace to c all home

Little Ashley Farm This handsome country house near Bradford on Avon has some serious reasons to brag about itself

By Evelyn Green Photos by Pete Helme www.mediaclash.co.uk mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 171 141

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PROPERTY

I

n the world of home-owning oneupmanship, a tennis court, over five acres of grounds, and being situated right next to a vineyard are certainly major bragging points. However, Little Ashley Farm, has yet more wonderful assets to boast about – its handsomeness and charm being two of the most noticeable and striking attributes.

It’s an exquisite and picturesque Grade-II country house with a most appealing façade. Internally, the house is unrecognisable from a decade ago, due to its thorough and painstaking refurbishment – preserving the beautiful architectural details which add to the home’s character, warmth and historical interest. Meticulous attention to detail has managed to create a home perfect for both cosy family living and grand entertaining.

Also in Little Ashley Farm’s favour is an enviable amount of living and sleeping space, replete with goodheight ceilings, deeply desirable features, and decorated so tastefully it requires very little, if any, tweaking from the new owners.

Upon entering, a vestibule leads into a spacious dining hall, with exposed beams – architectural

treasures which are showcased in many of the rooms, lending the spaces beauty and bearing. A grand and impressive stone fireplace is a superb feature that is shared with the adjacent drawing room – one which benefits from a triple aspect and wooden floors.

Of particular note is the stunning kitchen; the proportions are superb, a theme that is replicated throughout the majority of the house, and the balance between the existing building and the new addition, including bi-folding doors, is seamless. The kitchen units are bespoke, hand-built with granite work surfaces, incorporating an Everhot range and a number of integrated appliances. Conveniently situated just off the kitchen is an informal, snug family room with homely wooden floors, and two cloakrooms, a boot room and a well-appointed utility room complete the ground floor accommodation.

On the first floor is a luxurious master suite, incorporating a dressing area and an en suite bathroom with a separate walk-in shower. There are three further bedrooms at first-floor level, and a family bathroom, and the second floor provides a guest bedroom with an en suite bathroom, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom, which should take some of the stress out of the early-morning showering rush hour.

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PROPERTY

Then there’s its location; you’ll find it in a little, peaceful hamlet near Bradford on Avon, within close proximity of the village of Winsley, and Bath’s around six and a half miles away.

Back to the gardens for a second as it has lots more supermodel beauty to flaunt. You wouldn’t think it possible for the grounds to match the splendour of the house, but they definitely do. The glass doors from the kitchen lead onto a large secluded terrace, perfectly poised for open-air feasting, and the property also has a field at the rear, a paddock to the front, and a large courtyard for parking. There are numerous areas of lawn, and beyond the walled area is an orchard. There are areas of wild flowers and kitchen gardens, all of which have been meticulously maintained, and, of course, there’s that high-quality, all-weather tennis court. And that completes the package.

Just kidding! There’s considerably more. Namely, a fabulous two-bedroom, two-floor cottage, along with an excellent range of traditional stone outbuildings. Phew!

And that’s your lot. That’s enough to be getting on with, isn’t it?

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House numbers Square footage 8,496 Bedrooms 7 Bathrooms/ cloakrooms Price Gardens

6

£2.75M over 5 acres

Where Little Ashley Farm, near Bradford on Avon What else? A two-bedroom cottage, outbuildings, a tennis court, an orchard, a wildflower meadow Knight Frank, 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath, BA1 2JQ; 01225 325999; www.knightfrank.co.uk

advertising feature

Chance to take sneak peek at new penthouse show apartment Anyone looking for an exclusive penthouse home in the centre of Bath can steal a march on other potential buyers by taking a sneak peek at a brandnew waterside show penthouse

W

hile external construction work continues on the impressive looking Sovereign Point building at Bath Riverside, developer Crest Nicholson is inviting anyone interested in living the high life to don hard hats and high viz jackets, so they can see for themselves why these final waterside penthouses are so special.

Danielle Simpson, sales manager at the award-winning site said: “Allowing people access a little earlier than we normally would will give those interested in buying one of these exclusive properties a sneak peek on the sort of lifestyle often associated with the rich and famous.

“Showcasing the very best of what top floor living can bring, the new two-storey show apartment will provide anyone a fantastic opportunity to see for themselves why the three penthouse properties at the development, and only new penthouses in the whole of Bath, are like nothing else available.

“The views are spectacular and the specification and layout is a superb demonstration of modern design and architecture at its very best.”

Designed by Rachel Nacer at Rasalo Interior Design, the show apartment demonstrates what can be achieved through imagination and creativity. Including all the latest design trends, it will give those thinking about buying, a real flavour for the lifestyle they could come to expect living on the banks of the River Avon.

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“The living area provides access to the balcony which stretches the full width of the property” Rachel added: “We wanted to keep the apartment fresh and light, so the décor is a reflection of this. The lights in the living room are modern LED light fittings and in the bedrooms we have chosen a chandelier and gold light.

“All the wallpaper used is by Cole & Son, which is one of the most iconic and bestknown brands in the world. Founded in 1875 its collections represent styles across the centuries and include some of the most historic wallpaper designs ever made.

“We’ve also used some fantastic modern art throughout the property such as a bronze sculpture by Jennine Parker which is positioned on the console table. There is also an interesting art installation by Ruth Spaak which is made from plastic ties.

“There really isn’t anything quite like this anywhere else in the region and with the number of penthouse apartments limited, it’s

a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

To access the property, owners have to walk through the impressive central atrium which stretches from the ground floor all the way up the eight stories of the building.

Offering luxury at every turn the first floor comprises a very spacious open plan, living, dining and kitchen area which is flooded with natural light through the generous floor to ceiling windows.

The living area provides access to the balcony which stretches the full width of the property as well as direct access to the secluded roof terrace which comes via a glassencased spiral staircase. This leads owners up and outside where they will be able to enjoy far reaching views.

The roof terrace has plenty of space for outside furniture, sun loungers and potted plants, making it a calm, private oasis in the heart of the city. There is also spacious storage so that outdoor furniture can be put away during the winter months. n

To make an appointment to view the Sovereign Point penthouse apartment please call 01225 463517 or visit www.bathriverside.co.uk

Merging a traditional estate agency with innovative technology If you’re looking to buy, sell or rent property in Bath and you’d like a longestablished, reputable estate agent, then we’re your agent. Previously known as Mark Naylor Independent Estate agents we have a fantastic team with over 50 years’ experience across the industry.

We can offer so much more than the traditional estate agency service! Here’s just some of what we can do for you:

• PERSONALISED websites for your property to share on social media • VIRTUAL tours including a voice over description Monthly • MAGAZINE with a dedicated for sale or for let page • Qualified, EXPERIENCED staff with great local knowledge • Excellent easy to use NEW WEBSITE with video testimonials from our clients • Huge presence across the major PROPERTY PORTALS • Modern, refurbished HIGH STREET office with a cosy corner for clients • Enough about us, we are also are proud to support our local community and many Charities.

Call us for your FREE no obligation property appraisal today on 01225 422224 bathstoneproperty.com • sales@bathstoneproperty.com • lettings@bathstoneproperty.com

Bath LIVES

“I once played the French horn in front of the Queen”

Ian Stockley The chief exec of Bath Festivals talks performing in front of the Queen, the best coffee in the city, and inspiring children The same day as this issue of Bath Life hits the city – 28 September – the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, which has been running for the last 12 years, will begin.

Here, we get to know Ian Stockley – chief exec of the arts charity that delivers the festival…

My background is in singing… I won a scholarship to attend the Royal Academy of Music. The performing arts has been in my blood from a very early age.

My focus was on the concert platform… I performed as a bass soloist up and down the country.

I worked with actors and poets on a series of music and word programmes; a highlight was an evening of readings, songs and poetry with Judi Dench and Michael Williams.

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In my 30s, my touring schedule was growing, but the income streams were challenging… I had a young family at the time, so I decided to make a change. I moved into marketing and convinced Reader’s Digest that there were transferable skills from marketing myself as a freelance singer to marketing, what was then, the world’s most widely read magazine.

In 1997, I moved back to Bath and started my own marketing agency, Indicia…

I joined the Bath Festivals board as a trustee, and, after selling the marketing agency, I was thrilled to be appointed as chief executive last year.

The Bath Children’s Literature Festival is a hugely important part of Bath Festivals… The incredible authors and illustrators that come to the festival cast a spell

on the audience, instilling a love of reading in children. Witnessing the excitement of classes of school kids is a highlight of the whole festival year for me.

The Kids’ Lit Fest has gained a well-earned reputation… it offers a tremendous range of highcalibre talent – David Walliams’ event, for example, sold out within the first 72 hours of being on sale.

McFly’s Tom Fletcher is a highlight for me… as he brings his magical, musical adventure to Bath for the first time, with his new book The Creakers. The line-up is great this year, with the likes of Lauren Child, Horrible Histories’ Terry Deary and Martin Brown, and author Cressida Cowell coming to the city.

I was born in Bath… My father owned a number of farms in and around Bath, and I took on a variety of different jobs as a child.

I now live in… Larkhall. The community feel is amazing in Bath; and its beauty, with its views and architecture, is a constant inspiration for me.

You’ll find me spending money at… Colonna & Small’s, as they serve the best coffee for miles; and at one of our local haunts the King William Pub.

My ultimate view is the one... from our house, looking across to Bath Abbey.

My favourite local spot is…

Midford Valley.

If I was king of Bath for a day… I’d create a city-wide calendar of amazing events that would bring maximum benefit to the local community.

My most treasured possession is… an oil painting

by Jane Corsellis. It lifts my spirits on the occasions when I return from work and no one is at home.

Something not many people would know about me is…

I once played the French horn in front of the Queen.

A memorable life moment was… a week of whisky and laughter on the almostunpopulated island of Gigha, off the west coast of Kintyre in Scotland, in 1984.

My hidden skill is… I can deliver a neat backhand slam in table tennis; it has led to many a competition win. n Bath Children’s Literature Festival runs from 28 September – 7 October; for more, visit www.thebathfestival.org.uk

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