Bath Life – Issue 407 by MediaClash

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property @BathLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF THE CITY

ISSUE 407 / 20 DECEMBER 2019 – 3 JANUARY 2020 / £3

ISSUE 407 / 20 DECEMBER 2019 – 3 JANUARY 2020 / HAPPY NEW YEAR

NEW COMPANIES THAT ARRIVED IN BATH THIS YEAR

WINTER WHITE FRESH BEGINNINGS FOR 2020

WINTER LUXE INTERIORS UPSTAIRS DOWNSTAIRS BUDŌ BĀ / THE GRAPES OPEN FOR BUSINESS MEET THE LATEST ENTREPRENEURS IN TOWN

EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOVE: Dolly grey-blue tiling from Artisans

of Devizes, more interiors on page 40; BELOW: Bandook dishes, more new businesses on page 113

epending on when you read this issue it will either be before the big day or after it, 2019 or 2020. You may be a ball of excitement, utterly frazzled or enjoying a midafternoon snooze. Christmas is still very much with us in this issue, but it’s less about the shopping and more about the much needed chilling out time. After the hectic few weeks running up to the 25th, it’s time to be at home and preferably doing very little. With that in mind, we highlight some of the best books from local authors for you to delve into (page 100) while our brilliant columnist Nic Bottomley picks out some of the best reads that have just hit the shelves (page 87). While you’re hopefully resting up you might be looking around at your four walls and thinking it’s time to make a few changes, so we’ve put together an 11-page all-singing all-dancing interiors feature (page 40) designed to get you feeling the bright optimism of the new year. Elsewhere, we look back at the new cafés, restaurants, gyms and shops that have opened this year (page 113); businesses that are helping to keep Bath the hive of independents that it is. If you haven’t visited them all yet – now is the perfect time to do so. Whatever date this reaches you, have a very peaceful, happy holiday from all the gang at Bath Life.

HARRIET NOBLE Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

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

ADAMS of BATH ELECTRICAL • BATHROOMS • PLUMBING • SECURITY • KITCHENS HEATING • GAS • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

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WE ARE ADAMS OF BATH PROPERTY SERVICES & DEVELOPMENT - A FULLY QUALIFIED AND HIGHLY SKILLED PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY BASED IN BATH

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Issue 407 / 20 December 2019 – 3 January 2020 COVER Dining room/kitchen area of 7 Caroline Place, Bath; Pritchards Estate Agents, see page 155 for more

INTERIORS

40 A room by room how-to on refreshing your home for

the New Year

THE ARTS

77 ARTS INTRO Every day objects are artworks at the

The Museum of East Asian Art

78 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, family stuff, art and the

places to be on NYE

85 THEATRE Anna shares her best panto memories 87 BOOKS Nic’s picks to see you through the season

FOOD&DRINK

90 RESTAURANT Bath’s best kept secret 95 FOOD & DRINK NEWS Get up to date with all the

foodie happenings in the city

96 TRY 5 Dine out in Corsham

SHOPPING

100 EDITOR’S CHOICE Kick-start your 2020

reading list with books from local authors

100

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96 90

Issue 407 / 20 December 2019 – 3 January 2020

LIFESTYLE

162 LIVES Jon Richardson on his comedy roots in Bath

BUSINESS

113 NEW BUSINESS Meet 50 of the newbies that took

Bath by storm in 2019

119 BATHWORKS The local businessess making the

headlines

PROPERTY

155 SHOWCASE Three reasons to fall in love with in 7

Caroline Place

DEPARTMENTS 17 SPOTLIGHT 25 SOCIETY 33 A MAN’S WORLD

155

113

162

Editor Harriet Noble harriet.noble@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Editor Lydia Tewkesbury lydia.tewkesbury@mediaclash.co.uk Managing Editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash. co.uk Senior Art Editor Andrew Richmond Graphic Design Megan Allison Cover Design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nic Bottomley, David Flatman, Rachel Ifans and Anna O’Callaghan Group Advertising Manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Justine Walker justine.walker@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy Advertising Manager Polly Jackson polly.jackson@mediaclash.co.uk Account Manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Sales Executive Louis Grey louis.grey@ 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 and Exeter. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs (www.crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag). 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

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

Following the sell-out first year, Bath Property Awards was buzzing with excitement, as businesses from all over the South West came together to celebrate the dynamic Bath property sector! We were proud to sponsor the event and humbled to be finalists in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;suppliers & servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sector. We want to extend a big Taste of Bath congratulations to all of the amazing finalists in their relative categories.

www.taste-of.co.uk HELEN RICH, FOUNDER

SPOTLIGHT Bath College

T P F TH TABL Catherine Bruton, the readers’ choice

Book awards

Bath College has been ranked sixth in the country in an annual league table. NICDEX rated the college out of 172 further education colleges across England using four categories: employer satisfaction, learner satisfaction, 16-18 positive progression and then adult progression into work. Bath College has shot up the list a remarkable 11 places – up from 17th place last year. “We’re really proud to be listed as sixth in the country. This is a brilliant re ection of the passion, commitment

and hard work of Bath College staff,” says Laurel Penrose, principal and CEO. “It is great to see that our learners have a positive experience with us and that we aid them to reach their full potential after they leave college.” It shows in the stats, with 52 per cent of adult learners on benefits progressing into work, while 80 per cent of 16 to 18-year-old learners went on to positive progression, which covers employment and higher education. For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

READERS’ CHOICE Bath-based author Catherine Bruton won the Books Are My Bag 2019 Readers Award for Children’s Fiction with No Ballet Shoes in Syria, her refugee-championing tale about Aya, an 11-year old refugee from Syria who falls in love with ballet. The Books Are My Bag Readers Awards are the only awards curated by bookshops and voted for by book lovers. “As an English and Drama teacher at King Edward’s School I see the power of stories to open young reader’s eyes, to make them ask questions and expand their capacity for empathy, so I wanted to tell a story that would encourage young readers to look beyond the labels of ‘refugee’ and ‘asylum seeker’ and see the child behind,” says Catherine. “Aya’s story echoes the stories of the 12.8 million child refugees around the world and I am thrilled to have won this award which will help bring their stories to an even wider audience.” For more: www.catherinebruton.com

Insta-famous: Giambattista’s accessible glamour for H&M, as worn by Kendall Jenner

Everybody was very excited about the good news

Fashion Museum

DRESS OF THE YEAR

The Fashion Museum has revealed 2019’s Dress of the Year: a pleated pink tulle dress by iambattista alli for H . The dress, chosen by this year’s judge Donna Wallace of British Vogue, was made famous when Kendall Jenner posted a photo of herself wearing it to Instagram at the amfAR gala during the Cannes Film Festival in May. The post got more than five million likes. “Giambattista Valli is best known for his incredible couture tulle creations in sophisticated pastel hues. These rarefied pieces are designed to be worn in less than everyday settings. ith this H collaboration, Giambattista makes something usually seen as elite and exclusive accessible,” says onna. “ ebuted and worn by endall Jenner, one of the biggest and most followed models of the moment, it was introduced to the world in the most modern of ways – not on a catwalk show but via our digital feeds.” You can go and see the dress in all its glory at the Fashion Museum in The Assembly Rooms now. For more: www.fashionmuseum.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 17

SPOTLIGHT Ben Aldridge is running the Bath Half for Send A Cow

Bath Half

READY. SET. GO.

Training for the next Bath Half Marathon is now in full swing. Tying on his running shoes along with the rest of us will be actor Ben Aldridge, taking part in aid of Bath-based charity Send a Cow. Known for his roles in BBC’s Our Girl and Fleabag, Ben began working with the charity through his uncle, David Bragg, a founding farmer with the organisation. After spending his childhood listening to David’s stories about his trips to Uganda, Ben had to get involved with the charity himself. An active advocate for Send a Cow, last year he completed Tough Mudder for them, and raised £2,605. You can sponsor his Bath Half efforts via his Instagram page, @benjaminaldridge. Send a Cow works in six African countries, working with local communities to develop solutions and training for everything from gender and social inclusion to farming and business skills. If you fancy joining Ben in Team Send a Cow, you can sign up on their website. For more: www.sendacow.org

Former DHI clients performed during the event

RUH

ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER

Remember to book your place on the Royal United Hospitals (RUH) marathon charity walk. On 16 May 2020, the Walk of Life explores the Kennet and Avon Canal, and participants can choose to walk 10, 16 or the marathon 26.2 miles from Bishops Cannings near Devizes to The Holburne Museum in Bath. “The Walk of Life is all about coming together to support our local hospital, the RUH. You may decide to walk in memory of a loved one, take part to thank staff, to show your support for someone receiving treatment, or simply to take on the challenge. Whichever your reason, every step you take will make a huge difference to patients,” says Laura Pierce, events and community officer at the Forever Friends Appeal, organisers of the walk. For more: www.foreverfriendsappeal.co.uk Walking for life

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

Charity

LEND A HAND Developing Health and Independence (DHI) have launched an appeal to open a new drug and alcohol treatment centre in Bath. At their recent 20th anniversary celebrations, they announced plans to raise £180,000 in the next five months to take an empty building on St. James’ Parade and use the space as a home for the centre, which they are hoping to create because of the high demand for their services – especially those for people struggling with alcohol addiction. “There are hundreds of people in Bath and North East Somerset who have a problematic relationship with

drugs, especially alcohol, but do not get the help that they need. We have identified that need and are now asking for the public’s support to provide this expanded service,” says Julie Hughes, DHI treatment services director. “Problematic alcohol and drug use takes a huge emotional and financial toll on individuals, families and the wider community. This treatment centre will make a difference by supporting the most vulnerable members of our local community to turn their lives around.” Donations can be made online through DHI’s website. For more: www.dhi-online.org.uk/appeal

SPONSORED BY

SCENE Bernadette O’Neill and Marion Comer

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

Luke Walton and Souvid Datta

Sophie-Claire McLeod, Kathryn Riley, Mason Pollock, Holly Tarquini, Connor Walter, Violet Dahl and Benoit Cuvier

Col Needham and Bryony Hanson Kate Leys

STARS OF THE SCREEN

Forget the Oscars – Bath recently played host to the IMDb Filmmakers Award, part of the FilmBath Festival. The event at omedia was a showcase for five diverse and exciting short films, one of which was chosen for the award by judges Col eedham, C of I b, script and story editor ate Leys, Briony Hanson from the British Council of Film, director, writer and producer James Brobin and BAFTA winning producer ebecca ’Brien. Gladiator on Wheels by Souvid atta won the , cash pri e and further , worth of kit to make his next film. www.ﬁlmbath.org.uk Photos by Anna Barclay

Abigail Martin and Elizete Pylioti Laura Rawlings

Lydia Baines, Leuan James, Steve Mainwaring and Sophie Overment

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY SOCIETY

Harry Robinson and Denise Jackman

Patrick Anketell-Jones, Toni Warren and Tim Warren Louise Harvey, Andrew Taylor and Lizzie Heffer

Cathy French and Valentine Morby

ST JOHN’S ASSEMBLE

The St John’s Foundation hosted their annual reception at The Assembly Rooms recently. In an evening that marked the charity’s biggest event so far, 300 guests gathered to celebrate its achievements, hear some updates and meet new team members, including the new CEO, David Hobdey and chair of trustees, Ben Fletcher. Eddie Illic was on hand to give a talk about his own community project, Eddie’s Street Cuts, where he provides free haircuts for the local homeless community. www.stjohnsbath.org.uk Photos by Paolo Ferla

Ben Fletcher, Eddie Illic and David Hobdey Alex MacKenzie, Victoria Dulley, Joe Haines and Chloe Harvey

Laura Phillips and Jimmy Deane

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

Mary Hayward and Judith Pepler

Laura Jones and Tim Jones

Sarah Baker and Simon Tapscott

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Beth Jackson and Cath Colston

James Nunn and his work

John Rose, Emma Rose and Colin Marshall

CHRISTMAS WRAPPINGS

The opening night of ‘ArtBar Unwrapped’ at The Abbey Hotel was a huge success and saw four talented Bath artists exhibit their latest work; an exciting eclectic range of affordable original artwork, stunning prints, beautiful silk scarves and cards. Emma Taylor (also the hotel’s ArtBar curator and artist in residence), Emma Rose, James Nunn and Lucy Saunders’ work adorned the walls of the hotel’s cool ArtBar. The fizz flowed while over 100 guests had a chance to chat to the artists and do some early Christmas shopping. www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk Photos by Betty Bhandari

Lucy Saunders and Izzy Saunders

Charlie Taylor and Emma Taylor

Sarah Wilson and Julia Penrose Roz Moorhouse and Kathy Pulley

Nicky Robinson, Sally Samuel and Jeanine Pellicci Robert Halton and Jane Halton

Sarah Kettlety and Paul Banyard 28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SPONSORED BY

SOCIETY

Ania Malecka, Steve Everall and Priscilla Delamarre

Ian Taylor

Jake Gabai, Soulful Sounds

FESTIVE FUN AT THE BIRD

Heather Mercer and Neal Slateford

The Bird’s Christmas Tavern is a must for a complete Bathonian Christmas. Invited friends, supporters and local businesses ﬂocked to the launch o the estive pop up or the o cial start o the season o shopping and stu ng yoursel silly. ot Christmas punch was served on arrival along with options o ﬁzz, wine and some tasty canap s to nibble in the beauti ully decorated surrounds. Solful Sounds provided the soundtrack or the evening. www.thebirdbath.co.uk Ling Roper, Charlie Taylor and Emma Taylor

Marcus, Nick, Carl and Hazel

Photos by Paolo Ferla

Jane Palmer and Lynne Bridge

Tim Moss, Ali Beavan and Annie Moss

Ben Hancock and Charley Brentnall 30 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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A MAN’S WORLD DAVID FLATMAN

Snuggle up, chill out

How to do Christmas, the Flats way…

“If you need to escape your home and family by Boxing Day then you’re doing it wrong”

friend of mine yesterday declared to me his joy at having booked in an afternoon’s work on Boxing Day. “Be good to escape by then,” he said, and I found myself agreeing with him, because that’s what you do if you want conversations to flow and if, really, you don’t care anywhere near enough to think about – let alone verbalise – what you really think. I also don’t have Oppositional Defiance Disorder, so am willing to let these crazy outbursts slide, here and there. It was, though, on reflection, a wild statement on which I have since sent him an extended WhatsApp message (it was four lines long – any longer is digital torture). Put simply, if you need to escape your home and family by Boxing Day then you’re doing it wrong. Unavoidably, human-infested sitting rooms and dish-packed kitchens can feel quickly claustrophobic, and the constant preparing of food and beverages for the hordes can seem interminable, but the key is to ‘escape’ before you have to, and before you die on the inside. Plan walks. Even if they’re short. Either rescue a dog this minute or borrow one from a neighbour, as they in themselves are an in-built excuse to get out and get moving and to suck in some cold, crispy air. Or pretend you can’t find the cat. Whatever, get the oldies and the kids wrapped up like mummies and physically force them out the door. You won’t regret it. Or, send everyone else out while you stay and tidy up on your own, with Michael Bublé’s Christmas CD playing in the background. Everybody wins and, should you not leave the designated boundaries of your property for two whole, manic days, you will indeed find yourself close to the edge. But it is avoidable. The above might work if you’re

committed to one of those hectic Christmases. One of the ones during which you spend more time in your car seat than on your favourite sofa. However, I would argue that you don’t need to do those, either. The greatest trick Santa ever pulled was convincing us that we have to see every single member of our families every Christmas. It’s just not true. We should do our best, but we mustn’t feel like failures if we do not manage to tick every familial box. I see my family quite a lot, and will see them over Christmas. The girls’ mummy and I have stopped, however, committing our kids to hundreds of miles of road travel on Christmas Eve and Day. We want to see everyone but way, way more than that, we want the children to have relaxed, warm memories of Christmases at home. My festive memories are like that and I love them, so why do we inflict commercial truck driver-levels of travel on our children? No, the children will wake up at home with just their Mummy and Daddy, and it will stay that way all day. Just excitement, presents, food, Lego, and movies. No effort, no logistics, just playing and laughing. Oh, and one forced winter walk which they WILL like. Come Boxing Day, there will be movement, and things will get a little more hectic, but that’s all fun. I just treasure those two days of quiet and cuddles, and I know my kids do too (by the way, this is only the second Christmas to be done like this and, well, God knows what next year will look like, but for now I can be this smug and feel ok with it! It also wasn’t even my idea, but I’m taking all the credit – feels good). I wish a happy, chilled Christmas to you all. 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

INNER SPACE January is a good time to rethink the spaces we live in. Changing our surroundings so that they fill us with optimism can make the new year really feel like it is a fresh start... By Harriet Noble

hatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new in the world of winter interiors for 2020? Well, the continued love affair with deep greens, blues (Classic Blue has been announced as the Pantone colour of 2020 so expect to see this everywhere) and velvet continues. Also taking centre stage are beautiful, colour-happy tiles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Here, we go room to room, with interiors to inspire...

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

Stylish study room from Mandarin Stone

INTERIORS Study

WORK IN PROGRESS

A study should be a calm space where it’s easy to focus on your work, whether you’re putting together an annual budget or writing your bestseller. Make sure you purchase furniture which can store all your clutter, but also be sure to have aesthetically pleasing items; items that show your personal style and make you smile, whether you’re drawn to a nice bit of greenery or animal-themed paper clips (we just couldn’t not include). After all, life can’t be all work and no play. Continued on page 42. 2

5 3 6

SHOPPING LIST

1. Walcot oak shelf ladder, £395, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 2. Set of three animal paperclips, £14.95, from Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 3. Woodrow waste bin £19, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 4. Eddie elephant book ends, £40, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 5. Assorted succulents in grey pot, £20, from Dible and Roy, 28 Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; www.dibleandroy.co.uk 6. Octagon desk lamp, £65, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com

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

INTERIORS Study 1

COLOURING IN

“Creating an accent room within your home is a growing trend,” says Mandy Oestreich, founder and creative director at Marloe Interiors. “For example, you could paint all of the walls of a room in a bold and dramatic colour. This is a popular choice for smaller more private rooms such as a study.”

SHOPPING LIST

1. Albert desk, £595, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 2. Faux shagreen letter rack taupe, £125, from Oka, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com 3. Nordic lamp, £195, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 4. Shutters, POA, from Just Shutters; www.justshutters.co.uk 5. Headlong hare yellow ochre pencil case, £14.50, from Sam Wilson, 36 Milsom Street, Bath; www.samwilsonstudio.com

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

INTERIOR DESIGN K I TC H E N S & B AT H R O O M S BESPOKE JOINERY INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE FURNITURE DESIGN

“The work by Marloe Interiors was nothing short of fantastic. The end result is simply perfect. Our house looks like it belongs on the pages of an interiors magazine, yet it feels homely and is proving practical and easy to live in.” Homeowner, Wimbledon Family Home

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We would love to hear from you 01225 290 255 | hello@marloeinteriors.com W W W. M A R L O E I N T E R I O R S . C O M

Bathroom GO THE EXTRA TILE

Bathrooms don’t have to be just functional – vibrant tiles can do wonders to brighten up the room. “Bathrooms are also easy to update when you consider keeping your existing suite and jazzing things up with some new tiles,” says Hamish Smith, creative director at Artisans of Devizes. “Surface areas behind the bath are often crying out for some colour or an eye-catching print.” Before you get carried away picking out every coloured tile you can get your hands on, it’s important to consider the size of your bathroom and the look you want to create. “When it comes to tiling there’s a lot more to think about than people first realise and the style of the room will impact which tiles I would suggest someone picks, “says Neil Curtis, senior designer at Ripples Bath. “If a customer is looking for a contemporary finish, then I’d suggest rectified tiles, the thinner grout lines will give you a crisp clean finish. If a customer has a smaller bathroom, then I would suggest using larger tiles to create a bigger feel.”

SHOPPING LIST 6

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

1. Verde negro and Verde agua tiles, POA, from Artisans of Devizes, Stonebridge House, Nursteed Road, Devizes; www.artisansofdevizes.com 2. Scallop navy tiling, POA, from Artisans of Devizes, Stonebridge House, Nursteed Road, Devizes; www.artisansofdevizes.com 3. Pink and nude tiling, POA, from Mandarin Stone; 15-16 Broad Street, Bath; www.mandarinstone.com 4. Spitalfields Ceramic Retro Star Tile, POA, from Ripples Bath, Chelsea House, London Road, Bath; www.ripplesbathrooms.com 5. Bletchley soap basket, £45, from Jim Lawrence; 114 - 116 Walcot Street, Bath; www.jim-lawrence.co.uk 6. Skagerak bathroom mat, £155, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 7. Hegerow shower cap, £15.95, from Sam Wilson, 36 Milsom Street, Bath; www.samwilsonstudio.com 8. Compton bathroom pendant light, £123.75, from Jim Lawrence Lighitng & Home; 114 - 116 Walcot Street; www.jim-lawrence.co.uk

INTERIORS TOP TIPS FOR LIGHTING THE BATHROOM

• Keep it symmetrical to keep it calm. We all yearn for a relaxing spa like space to unwind in our home. Using two lights either side of a central mirror will immediately give the room a sense of balance and order. • Softer is better. Create a relaxing atmosphere by putting in more layers of light. Try using IP rated wall lights and pendants to add soft ambient layers of light to your bathroom. It should feel like a spa not a car park, so gentle layers of lighting work so much better. • Bathrooms can be tight spaces to light – if you have low ceilings think about using an elegant flush fitting light instead of flat downlighters. It will give you a much nicer light spill and create a far more pleasing and relaxing environment. Cassie Rowland, creative director at Jim Lawrence Lighting & Home

Green and moody bathrooms from Artisans of Devizes

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INTERIORS

A childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s delight from Marloe Interiors

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

Children’s bedroom

CHILD’S PLAY

Decorating a bedroom for a child can be a huge amount of fun – it’s a great opportunity to throw caution to the wind and really indulge your imagination, whether it be with bright sunny colours or animal-themed furnishings. But children grow up so fast, what they love when they’re a toddler is not what they’re going to be into when they’re a tween. So, how do you create a room that’s big on fun but that’s going to last the test of time? “Choose paint colours that aren’t too bold,” says Mandy Oestreich, founder and creative director of Marloe Interiors. “You can be more creative with interchangeable pieces like cushions, art, decor, etc. The aim is to create a space for your kids that would serve as a play room while they are young, but it will grow with them when it turns into a ‘hang out’ spot for homework and friends. “It’s a good idea to choose furniture that tends to be a little more mature while mixing in youthful decor and accents into the space. As your child grows, the furniture can stay the same while the accessories (cushions, artwork, rugs, etc.) and colours can change to match who they are as they get older.” 4

SHOPPING LIST

1. Hannah Turner Lion Money Box, £30.50, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 2. Rainbow ‘Starburst’ Cabinet, £1,250, from Scout and Boo, Holt Road, Bradford on Avon (email to arrange a visit); www.scoutandboo.co.uk 3. Globe light french blue, £90, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 4. Llama cushion, £36.99, from Vinegar Hill, 16 Milsom Street, Bath; www.vinegarhill.co.uk 5. Storage sack made with Liberty fabric, £44, from Coco and Wolf, www.cocoandwolf.com 6. Rattan penguin basket, £175, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Sreet, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 7. Unicorn snow globe, £21.95, from French Grey, 1 Burton Street, Bath; www.frenchgrey.co.uk 8. Lava lamps, £80 each, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Sreet, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 9. Blue bean bag, POA; from Silcox Son & Wicks; 5-7 New Street, Bath; www.silcox.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

INTERIORS 1

Kitchen RETRO REVIVAL

“For a retro revival, look to the clashing combinations of new terracotta shades and deep rich greens, with their Mediterranean feel and heady tones of burnt orange, azure blue, moss green and aubergine,” says Hamish Smith, creative director at Artisans of Devizes. “These shades look great in the kitchen with high-gloss furniture or painted in-frame cabinetry as well as behind statement sinks and range cookers”

SHOPPING LIST 6

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

1. Ca Pietra Rose tiling, POA, from Artisans of Devizes, Stonebridge House, Nursteed Road, Devizes; www.artisansofdevizes.com 2. White and green tiling, POA, from Mandarin Stone, 15-16 Broad Street, Bath; www.mandarinstone.com 3. Kitchen shelving, £595, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 4. Butchers Block, £425, from The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 5. Brass boiling water tap and herb sink, POA, from Bath Kitchen Company; 7-9 N Parade, Buildings, Bath; www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk 6. La cafetiere barcelona teapot retro blue, £21, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 7. Herringbone table and bench, £1,375, fromThe Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

Artisans of Devizes tiling jazzes up washing-up time

Bold sofas from TR Hayes, 15-18 London Street, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk

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

INTERIORS Sitting room

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL

Bright, optimistic colours and bold textures remain very on-trend. 1 “Velvet was once viewed as old and shabby is now viewed as luxurious and chic,” says Mandy Oestreich, founder and creative director at Marloe Interiors. “Velvet is available in beautiful colours and looks fantastic on armchairs, footstools and scatter cushions. “It is surprisingly also a great choice for pet-friendly upholstery. The fibres release pet hair easily, rather than trapping it like traditional woven fabrics. Also, most cats don’t like to claw it because it lacks that 3 woven texture.” © MEL YATES

SHOPPING LIST

“If there’s one group of colours that’s never fallen off the radar, it’s those in the neutral camp. More of an understatement, whether it’s warm white or earthy nude, the art of a pared back palette is its ability to endure, to take to tones stronger and softer, yet still, to act as a foil to texture.” Hamish Smith, creative director at Artisans of Devizes

NEW NUDES

1. Tropical toucan design cushion, £120, from Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk 2. Selection of lampshades, POA, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk 3. Decorative blue coral £120, from Oka, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com 4. Yellow Venice Sofa, POA, from Rossiters of Bath, 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; www.rossitersofbath.com 5. Gold and green leaf Hurricane votive, £6, from Dible and Roy, 28 Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; www.dibleandroy.co.uk 6. Dakota blue vase, £12, from Dible and Roy, 28 Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; www.dibleandroy.co.uk 7. Walcot Coffee Table, £349, The Salcombe Trading Company, 76 Walcot Street, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk 8. Set of two teardrop side tables, £210, from Dible and Roy, 28 Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon; www.dibleandroy.co.uk 9. Seating, mirror and gold leaf furnishings, POA, from Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

oak ﬂooring – carpets – luxury vinyl

Showroom in Chelsea Road, Bath 5 Chelsea Road, Bath BA1 3DU www.interiorharmony.co.uk

01225 483818 info@interiorharmony.co.uk

It’s all about the little details… NE W SH OW ROO M W I T H E XC LU S I V E TI M E L E SS CL AS S I C PA I N T E D T I M BE R K I TC HEN S

8 Pulteney Terrace, Bath, BA2 4HJ Email: kelly@kellymariekitchens.com Showroom: 01225 481881 Mobile: 07796 554466 www.kellymariekitchens.com @kellymariekitcheninteriors | Supplier: www.haecker-kuechen.de

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INTERIORS SHOWROOM

Bespoke Curtains & Blinds, Upholstery, Interior Design, Fabrics & Wallpaper, New furniture ranges, Vincent Sheppard, Whitehead Designs. Flooring, Rugs, House Accessories.

Find us at Silver Street, Gastard, Corsham, SN13 9PY

We are just a 4 minute drive from Corsham Town Centre with free customer parking available

BATHROOMS AND WARDROBES FROM INSPIRATIONAL BATHROOMS

www.perfectrooms.co.uk • Tel: 01249 716445 • interiors@perfectrooms.co.uk

Ltd.

Inspired design and styling can excite and enhance our lives enabling us to feel nurtured and uplifted. Whether it be redesigning the interior and exterior of a property, altering the colour palette, introducing a new style, changing soft furnishings, refreshing, replacing or de-cluttering ~ leave it to meâ&#x20AC;Ś The Coach House, Linden Gardens, Weston Road, Bath BA1 8DB M. 07710 223285 E. lucy@lucycollins.me www.lucycollins.me

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

Fireplaces, wood burners, gas fires, chimney and flue specialists

Classic to contemporary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; concept to completion

Chesneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s . Barbas Bellfires . Hwam . Stuv . Jetmaster Contact us today or visit our showroom Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) Monkton Combe, Bath, BA2 7HD | 01225 722706 info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk | www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

• Domestic and commercial roofing specialists • Covering Bath, Bristol and the South West • Trading since 1985 Tel: 01225 421499 Email: mail@youngsroofing.co.uk www.youngsroofingbath.co.uk

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

Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN

NEW YE A R NEW O UT LOOK Renew your window furnishings and begin the New Year with a fresh interior style for your home. Visit our showroom to view our products and enjoy a free design consultation. 01225 469 559 info@aspectwindowstyling.co.uk www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk or visit our showroom 1 Saracen Street, Bath, BA1 5BR

NORTON MASONRY LTD Stonework Specialists & General Builders We are able to carry out projects from small repairs to large contracts of up to Â£350,000. We offer a friendly and reliable service.

SINGLE & DOUBLE STOREY EXTENSIONS RENOVATIONS PROPERTY MAINTENANCE STONE CLEANING & RESTORATION BARN CONVERSIONS 38 LONG BARNABY, MIDSOMER NORTON, RADSTOCK BA3 2TZ

Tel: 01761 419422 Fax: 01761 415381 Mobile: 07901 712232 Email: nortonmasonryltd@hotmail.co.uk

www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Over 30 Years Experience

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

Original cast iron radiators, lovingly restored and ready to plumb straight into your exisiting central heating system.

We are a local Bath-based business with a huge choice of stock available now.

Call David Lucas on 07540 978 408

www.reclaimedradiators.co.uk

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

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

Image shows Hugh Mackay Tartanesque

INTERIORS DIRECTORY ur local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for winter

ARCHITECTS, BUILDERS, CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY SERVICES Adams of Bath

01225 460460; www.adamsofbath.com; Property Services and development Aqua Fortis

01225 285 500; www.roofersbath.com; Rooﬁng solutions Ashley Collins Decorating

01761 431354; www.ashleycollinspainting.co.uk E perienced painting contractors in Bath. ully insured and licensed by A or working at heights DKA

The alt ouse, 1 0 Sydney Buildings, Bath 01 01 www.dka.co.uk Local architects with over 20 years’ e perience o designing and delivering uality buildings Esmond Murray Architects

1 an iemen’s Lane, Bath 01225 447165; www.esmondmurrayarchitectscom Award winning hartered R BA Practice formed in 1991 with a new approach to private client residential design, bringing together architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and pro ect management Hawker Joinery

North End, Batheaston, Bath 01 www.hawker oinery.co.uk The oldest established oinery business in Bath, with a reputation or uality service and workmanship. Specialising in doors, interiors and cabinetry

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

Mandarin Stone

The Shambles, Brad ord on Avon FIREPLACES AND WOODBURNERS 01225 309110; Ignis Stoves www.bathbathrooms.com; olliers Specialists in the supply o bathrooms ire Engine Shed, nit ard, Radstock Norton Masonry in Bath and the surrounding areas www.ignisstoves.co.uk Long Barnaby, idsomer Norton, 01761 437366; Radstock 01 1 1 Ripples Based in a showroom created www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk helsea ouse, London Road, within an old fire engine shed with a Bath; 01225 447971; antastic range o wood burners to www.ripples.ltd.uk Saltford Building Services suit all styles and budgets reators o award winning lu ury 01225 874676; designer bathrooms or decades www.salt ordbuildingservices.com Specialists in complete building and Mendip Fireplaces (Bath) property development services COURSES AND The ld ill, ill Lane, onkton WORKSHOPS ombe, Bath 01 0 www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk Sovereign Damp Proofing The Marmalade House ireplace, stove and chimney 01249 716161; The Lo t, 1 Bartlett Street, specialists with an e tensive range o www.sovereigndpc.co.uk Bath; 01225 445855; open fires, wood burning omprehensive service or all kinds www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk o damp proofing Learn how to paint urniture at their popular Annie Sloan courses FLOORING AND Lucy Collins

0 10 www.lucycollins.me roperty dressing and styling

Sydenhams

awthorn rove, Bath 01 www.sydenhams.co.uk Long standing builders merchants plus ﬁtted kitchens and bathrooms Techniglaze

estﬁeld ndustrial Estate, nit , irst Ave, idsomer Norton, Radstock 01 1 1 www.techniglaze.co.uk igh uality door, window and conservatory installations Timber Windows of Clifton

The all, Bristol 0 www.timberwindows.com; Beauti ul real timber doors and windows with dedicated installation team Youngs Roofing

01225 421499; www.youngsrooﬁngbath.co.uk Rooﬁng services and contractor

BATHROOMS Bathrooms at No 5

1 a Trim Street, Bath

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 idcombe arade, Bath 01225 422078; www.thecurtaine change.co.uk A wide range o bespoke and ready made curtains and blinds

CARPETS

Bath Contract Flooring

ingsmead S uare, Bath 01225 471888; www.bathcontractﬂooring.co.uk Specialists in ﬂooring Boniti

unsdon Road, est Littleton, hippenham 01 00 www.boniti.com; Natural stone and timber ﬂooring, decorative tiles, garden urniture with a specialist bespoke design service Broadleaf Timber

01225 302599; www. ustshutters.co.uk lantation Shutters and nterior window shutters

1 1 alcot Street, Bath 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.com; Solid wooden ﬂoors, plank and par uet, oak ﬂooring, made to measure internal and e ternal oak doors, staircases and oinery

Shuttercraft Somerset

Capitol Carpets of Bath

Just Shutters

01749 649171; www.shuttercra t.co.uk Stylish and comprehensive range o shutters and blinds

1 01

alcot Street, Bath 01 1 www.thecarpet.co.uk A range o aﬀordable carpet and stone ﬂooring

INTERIORS Haliden Oriental Carpets

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

01225 862320; www.dibleandroy.co.uk; abrics, ﬂooring and urniture at their two-storey showroom The Framing Workshop

80 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 482748; www.theframingworkshop.com; Box framing, glass and perspex bo es, hand ﬁnished and gilded frames and more

5A Chelsea Road, Bath; 01225 483818; www.interiorharmony.co.uk; Specialists for vinyl, carpet and hardwood flooring, floor sanding and wood floor renovation Graham and Green 92 Walcot Street, Bath; 01225 418300; Mandarin Stone www.grahamandgreen.co.uk; 15-16 Broad Street, Bath; Exceptional range of furniture 01225 460033; and home accessories in a global, www.mandarinstone.com; glamorous, individual and lifeCentral Bath showroom for enhancing style 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 31056; www.tileandflooring.co.uk Family-run business specialising in the supply, installation and restoration o flooring rom a selection o hundreds o different styles and materials

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 Julia Davey

20 Wellsway, Bath; 01225 738551; www.juliadavey.com; Hand made contemporary homeware and gifts Knees Home and Electrical

Spitfire Retail ark, Bradley Road, Trowbridge; Unit H Workmans Yard, Claude Ave, 01225 754161; www.knees.co.uk; Bath; 01225 972715; Carefully selected range of www.virtuosoflooringand kitchen appliances, furniture carpetbath.co.uk; Residential and commercial flooring home accessories and laminate Virtuoso Flooring

FURNITURE, INTERIORS AND HOMEWARE SHOPS The Bath Framer

7 Walcot Buildings, London Road Bath; 01225 920210; www.thebathpictureframer.co.uk; High-quality framing services Bed -E-Buys

Leekes

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

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

26 27, Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath 01225 313421; www.bedebuysltd.co.uk; Specialist independent bed shop Rossiters offering first class beds and mattresses 38-41 Broad Street, Bath; 01225 462227; www.rossitersofbath.com; Dible & Roy ffering uality urniture, Bridge Street, Bradford on Avon;

accessories, fabrics, plus an interior design service

Stephen Graver

Silcox Son & Wicks

Edington Rd, Steeple Ashton, Wiltshire; 01380 871746; www.stephengraver.com; Beautiful bespoke kitchens and interiors

Marloe Interiors

Westside Design

5-7 New Bath Street, Bath; 01225 463933; www.silcox.co.uk; Eclectic collection of furnishing gems Hobsons|choice to suit a range of tastes London Road, Bath: 01225 433511; www.hobsonschoice.uk.com; TR Hayes Luxury showroom is dedicated to 15-18 London Street, Bath the worlds leading kitchen brands 01225 465757; including Bulthaup www.trhayes.co.uk; Long-standing family-run furniture store Kelly Marie Hicks Kitchen Interiors 8 Pulteney Ave, Bath; 01225 481881; HOME ENTERTAINMENT www.kellymariekitchens.com; Independent luxury kitchen design Moss of Bath with over 15 years experience 45 St James’s Parade, Bath; 01225 331441; www.mossofbath.co.uk; Saltford Kitchens Independent home entertainment 439 Bath Road, Saltford, Bristol; retailer and solution provider 01225 874676; www.saltfordkitchens.com; Bespoke kitchen and worktop design INTERIOR DESIGN and installation Clair Strong Interior Design Ltd Walcot Studio, Old Orchard 88a Walcot Street, Bath; Schmidt Bath 01225 426905/07855 797311; 1 Park Road, Bath; www.clairstrong.co.uk; 01225 337276; Innovative design for commercial www.home-design.schmidt/en-gb; and residential settings both large Made to measure kitchens, dressing and small rooms and furniture 01225 290250; www.marloeinteriors.com; Interior design and styling services 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 Cheverell Wood

Cheverell, Hopton Park Waller Road, Devizes; 01380 722722; www.cheverellwood.co.uk; Highly skilled craftspeople specialise in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke wooden kitchens, bathrooms, libraries and bedrooms

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

LIGHTING

Antique Textiles and Lighting

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

114 - 116 Walcot Street Bath, BA1 5BG; 01225 430691; www.jim-lawrence.co.uk; A stunning collection of hand crafted home furnishings including lighting, curtain poles, lampshades and more, in beauti ul ﬁnishes. ade in reat Britain

RADIATORS

Reclaimed Radiators

07540 978408; info@reclaimedradiators.co.uk; A comprehensive range of antique cast iron radiators.

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

SPECIALIST VEHICLE BROKERS

“Buying and selling Classic, Prestige and Spor ts Cars in this area for over 45 years” JAGUA R E T YPE | F ERR ARI | PO RSC H E 91 1 | ASTO N M A RTIN All quality classics considered. Cars also sold on commission www.specialistvehiclebrokers.com | paul@svbrokers.co.uk For good old-fashioned polite service call Paul Langley on 07836 617916

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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A new and fascinating exhibition has landed at the Museum of East Asian Art (MEEA). The collection of work entitled China on a Plate explores the culture of food and drink in China by taking a look at the dishes, plates and bowls used. Many objects that were used for everyday purposes like eating and drinking in their prime are now regarded as Chinese art, things that – at the time – were certainly never envisaged as collectible items or works of art. As curator Nicole Chiang says, “Once an object like an eating bowl is displayed as an artwork in a museum setting, it easily loses its connection with its historical contexts.” And in fact, one of the mostly commonly

asked questions by visitors to the MEEA is to enquire what display items were used for originally. “The answer is not always straightforward, as objects were often repurposed and they could fulfil several functions,” continues Nicole. The Museum hopes China on a Plate will lead visitors to explore Chinese culture from a new perspective by uncovering the rich stories behind the objects. China on a Plate is a collaboration between MEEA and the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. It runs until 8 May 2020; 12 Bennett St, Bath BA1 2QJ; www.meaa.org.uk; 01225 464640

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

WHAT’S ON

20 December 2019 – 19 January 2020

Staying in the safe zone at Bath On Ice is an option

EXHIBITIONS Until 24 December

WINTER WONDERLAND AT MILSOM PLACE Rostra Gallery has a Christmas-ey pop up in Milsom Place for December. Limited issue prints, paintings, ceramics and much more will be on show during prime giftbuying time. Mon-Sat, 10am-6pm; Unit 23, Milsom Place; www.milsomplace.co.uk

Until 5 January 2020

MATISSE: MASTER OF LINE Though perhaps more known for his bright and colourful paintings, Matisse was also admired for his line drawings. Collector and dealer, John Kasmin has put together a striking selection of those drawings, available

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

to see right now. They provide a concise but intense insight into Matisse’s talent as a draughtsman. Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; £12.50; The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 5 January 2020

REMBRANDT IN PRINT A figurehead of utch art history, in addition to his paintings, Rembrandt was also known for his prints. Fine, detailed and scratchy, the pieces are deeply evocative and really worth a look. Organised by the Ashmolean Museum and the University of Oxford, the collection features some of Rembrandt’s most iconic images. Mon-Sun, 10am-5pm; £12.50; The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 6 January 2020 ART BAR UNWRAPPED

A festive collaboration between four local artists: Emma Taylor, Emma Rose, James Nunn and Lucy Saunders. Expect a bright and beautiful selection of paintings, prints and cards, which you can peruse while sipping on a cocktail – or a coffee, if you prefer. Mon-Sun, 8am-10pm; Abbey Hotel; www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Until 16 January 2020

BATH OPEN STUDIOS AT THE RUH Artists and makers from five Bath Arts Trails are showing works as part of the Art at the Heart programme. Prints, photographs, ceramics and mosaics will line the halls of the hospital, brightening up the place at the same time as giving Bath Arts Trails a bit of a boost.

Mon-Sun, 8am-8pm; Art at the Heart of the RUH, Central Gallery; RUH; www.artatruh.org

Until 2 February 2020

PETER BROWN: BATH IS IT Over 100 new oil paintings and drawings by Bath’s favourite artist will be on show at the Victoria Art Gallery for the foreseeable. You’ll spot some of Bath’s most pictures ue spots along with a few lesser known, but e ually beautiful, corners of the city. Mon-Sun, 10.30am-5pm; £5; Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

PLAYS/SHOWS Until 12 January 2020

RAPUNZEL Rapunzel, the musical. Need we say

WHAT’S ON more? This funny version of the young woman desperate to escape from the confines of her tower – and the clutches of her overbearing witch/mother – just never gets old. Times and prices vary; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 29 December

ABOVE: Hey Rock N Roll! Showaddywaddy are coming into town LEFT: The etchings on a master on show now at The Holburne BELOW: He’s behind you! Get in the festive mood with Beauty and the Beast

SQUIRREL You may not know this, but not all acorns are created equal. Squirrel knows. Squirrel has a stock of only the very best. Only he can’t quite remember which tree he buried them under… A partnership between the egg and Paragon School, Squirrel is a fantastic example of the benefits of getting children involved in theatre. Various times and prices; the egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Until 12 January 2020

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Join Wendi Peters (Coronation Street, Hetty Feather) as Fairy Bon-bon, Bath favourite Jon Monie and pro-Dame Nick Wilton (Eastenders) for this year’s panto. A magical imagining of Belle, the young bookworm who finds herself trapped in a castle with an evil beast – or is he? Expect sparkling costumes, magical moments and plenty of jokes. Remember to bring your audience participation A-game. Various times and prices; Theatre Royal; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

3–4 January 2020

A CHRISTMAS CAROL Guy Masterson will perform his one-man retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas tale. We’re intrigued to see how he tackles Fezziwig’s party. 7pm, Saturday matinee 2.30pm; Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

16–19 January 2020

SNOW WHITE: A PANTOMIME Bath drama presents the classic tale of the conniving step mother, beautiful princess, poisoned apple and the seven small friends that step in to help her. Laugh, singalong and prepare for some audience participation (“she’s behind you!” etc) in this uplifting tale of good winning over evil. 2pm and 7.30pm; £14 (£12 conc, £8 children); Rondo Theatre; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

MUSIC

21 December

THE SNOWMAN AND RUPERT AND THE FROG SONG See Rupert the Bear’s magical adventures brought to life with the original cartoons played and the Philharmonia providing the live score. Afterwards they’ll play The Snowman – after all, it’s not really Christmas without it. Doors 2.45pm, show 3.30pm; children £14, adults £22; The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

3 January 2020

SHOWADDYWADDY Having recently celebrated their 40th anniversary in the music biz, rock n’ roll veterans Showaddywaddy are back on the road. Known for hits like Under the Moon of Love, Three Steps to Heaven and Hey Rock & Roll, they’re as popular as ever after all this time. 7pm; £25; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

10 January 2020

DAMIEN WILSON AND ADAM WAKEMAN A popular touring duo of the men-with-guitars genre, in this fun night, the pair will play a mix of their solo work as well as a few hits from their joint albums. Both have extensive touring and musical experience behind them, so you can be confident that they know how to put on a show. Doors 7.30pm, show starts 8pm; £16; Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

11 January 2020

EDD DONOVAN AND THE WANDERING MOLES Blowing through Bath in support of his new album, Guardians of Our Time, you’ll find dd’s latest offering a distinct departure from his previous record. A folk artist to his core, on the new album, Edd has left behind the big band sound of his second album, Making Mountains (Vol. 1) in favour of a stripped back, self produced sound using only guitar, voice and keys – and even a couple of iPhone recordings. Doors 7.30pm, show starts 8pm; £12; Chapel Arts; www.chapelarts.org

11 January 2020

SÁNDOR VÉGH MEMORIAL CONCERT A night of Beethoven classics presented by IMS Prussia Cove, a charity all about music making that has a solid reputation as one of the most respected institutions

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

WHAT’S ON

FAMILY

Until 22 December

CHRISTMAS AT THE AMERICAN MUSEUM Christmas has come to the American Museum. There’s plenty on to celebrate, from a festive family trail full of Father Christmas’s helpers to the chance to meet the man himself in his grotto. am m ormal a m o a l h m r a u um a ar www.am r a mu um.org

23 December

THE DA SILVA MARIONETTE CIRCUS TROUPE This is an afternoon of properly oldfashioned fun. A second-generation traditional family show, you’ll see aerial acrobatics on the trapeze, spectacular cycling stunts, impressive trampolining and clown antics. m h a ra rom www. h a gra . om

Until 24 December

CHRISTMAS AT CHEDDAR A team of Father Christmas’s elves have been hard at work at Cheddar Gorge and Caves. They have transformed Gough’s Cave into a fantastical workshop, all ready for Santa’s arrival. The man himself will be there, and has given special permission for visitors to take a peek behind the scenes – he might even have a few pressies to hand out too. k o l u tl mb r a l from mb r ar ou t m r lu a m o www. h argorg . o.uk

Until 5 January 2020

CHRISTMAS AT DYRHAM Get out of the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre with a calming walking trail for the kids that encourages them to find the beauty in the winter season. If you’re feeling left out, there’s a poetry trail for adults too. Inside you’ll find the glorious home carefully decorated as it would have been in the 17th century, with all the sights and smells of Christmases past. o u am m hou o gtm a ar h k w b t or mor ta l ormal a m o a l rham ark www. at o altru t.org.uk

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

Until 5 January 2020

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT The myths and legends-themed festival sees Longleat filled with magical illuminations inspired by stories from around the world. Cerberus the three-headed dog, a club-wielding cyclops and even the Kraken make appearances in the impressive display. m a r ar o gl at www.lo gl at. o.uk

OTHER

Until 31 December

CHRISTMAS TAVERN Known for going all out for the season, this Christmas The Bird will have its own Christmas Tavern. The log cabin-style venue will give some serious #cosygoals. Think sofas so comfy you’ll never want to leave, seating draped in Bavarian furs and a room lost to Christmas magic – baubles, stars and lanterns fill the space with festive spirit. There will also be snacks and drinks available. o u m h r www.th b r bath. o.uk

ABOVE: Serial strummers Damien Wilson and Adam Wakeman are performing at Chapel Arts LEFT: Fee fi fo fum... we smell some beautifully lit mythical installations at Longleat BELOW: Enjoy wellie weather at Dyrham Park

31 December

JOJO RABBIT One of the most talked about films of this year, catch a special preview of Taika Waititi’s (Thor: ag arok hat o h Shadows) Jojo Rabbit. A hilarious yet utterly heartrending anti-hate satire about life in Nazi Germany, it is packed with jokes and horror in equal measure. Team ath saw it at the FilmBath Festival in ovember and can confirm it is an absolute must. . m . h ttl h atr www. tur hou . om

Until 5 January 2020

BATH ON ICE It’s back. Bath’s favourite festive ice rink has returned to Victoria Park. It’s time to pull on your skates and throw caution to the wind for a fun time out on the ice. It’s a learn by falling kind of fun. . am mw k a . am mw k a ult . hl u r o al tor a ark www.batho . om

Until 5 January 2020

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK MINI GOLF After dark the mini golf course in Royal Victoria Park will burst into magical light. Play a round in this

in classical music. Every year the group holds a concert in honour of its founder, the Hungarian violinist Sándor Végh. 7.30pm; £20; St Swithin’s Church; www.bathbo o .org.uk

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WHAT’S ON atmospheric winter wonderland with glow in the dark golf balls. Mon-Sun, 4.15-9.30pm; adult £7, child £6; Royal Victoria Park; www.bathonice.com

13 January 2020

BATH OCEAN PLASTIC DAY Emily Penn, the mastermind behind the eXXpedition Round-the-World all-female voyage in search of solutions to the ocean plastic crisis will be joined by speakers from City to Sea and Naturebeads to talk about the state of our oceans. 6.15-7.45pm; £10; Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk ARMY AND SOCIETY IN 18TH CENTURY BATH David Symington – otherwise known as the smiling doorman at No. 1 Royal Crescent – is giving a lecture on 18th century Bath. A retired solider himself, David will narrate the impact the army's comings and goings had on our city’s domestic life. Doors 7pm, talk starts 7.30pm; £5 visitors/ £2 members and students; Bath o al t rar a tﬁ t tut o www.brlsi.org

13 January 2020

Emily Penn will educate us all about the true state of our oceans

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTIES

Ring in 2020 right

THE PUMP ROOM Ball gowns to the ready; it’s time for the annual NYE shindig at the Roman Baths. Begin the evening with a glass of bubbly in the romantic, torch-lit Roman Baths before heading upstairs to the Pump Room for a fivecourse dinner with wine. www.romanbaths.co.uk KOMEDIA Jump on the Motorcity soul train for a night and get ready to boogie into 2020. DJ RockerRoller and Eddie Boy will step up their games for a night filled with tunes from Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire, The Jackson Five, James Brown, Dollie Parton and many, many more of the greats. www.komedia.co.uk THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA A New Year house party like you’ve never known, it kicks off with a festive afternoon tea followed by a five-course black-tie dinner (a few hours later, obviously) and a DJ. You’ll usher in 2020 with a traditional piper and a glass of Champagne. They throw in breakfast the next morning too. www.royalcrescent.co.uk

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

THE BELL INN This year’s theme is the roaring twenties, so don your best prohibition era glad rags and get ready to dance like it’s going out of fashion. There’ll be a DJ as ever – and plenty of opportunity for twenties-style gangster and flapper girls to get in all kinds of trouble. www.thebellinbath.co.uk WALCOT HOUSE Start NYE as you mean to continue: with a Champagne reception, of course. Follow that with a three-course meal and live music

comprised of a DJ, Walcot’s favourite bands and – with a VIP wristband – access to the acoustic lounge to cool off. www.walcothousebath.com MOLES Called The Big Cheese, this New Year’s party more than lives up to its name. Non-stop cheesy pop straight through until midnight, party poppers, confetti canons and – for those looking to go the extra mile – cheesy fancy dress very much encouraged. www.moles.co.uk

Winter 2020 Workshops Join us for these inspiring workshops in January and February 6 WEEK BEGINNERS PILATES COURSE With Emma Saturday 4th January – 8th February 2020 9.30 – 10.30am

6 WEEK BEGINNERS YOGA COURSE with Emma Saturday 4th January – 8th February 2020 10.45 – 11.45am

6 WEEK STRONG MAMA POSTNATAL STRENGTH & RECOVERY TRAINING COURSE with Virginie Wednesday 8th January – 12th February 1 – 2pm

6 WEEK BIRTH PREPARATION COURSE Thursday 9th January – 13th February 7.30 – 8.45pm

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JATB 2008 – Chris Harris (Dame Trott), Marcus Knibbs (King), Jon Monie (Simple Simon)

He’s behind you! Anna O’Callaghan looks back at pantomime highlights in Bath

hen I was six I was kissed by a pantomime horse, but this traumatic encounter did nothing to deter me from the genre. This year’s Beauty & The Beast will be my thirtyeighth consecutive Theatre Royal Bath pantomime. Some might say I’m a glutton for punishment – glutton is an especially pantomimic word – but I love panto and am really looking forward to this one, not least because it has been written by the legendary Jon Monie and won him an award for Best Script at 2019’s Great British Panto Awards. There are numerous scenes from pantos over the years that are amongst the highlights of my theatregoing. In 1982, the first panto after our major renovation, moustachioed comedian Jimmy Edwards made his entrance in Cinderella on a full-sized chestnut mare; it was wonderful to see Terry Scott and une hitfield in the flesh as Dame and airy in Jack and the Beanstalk in 1985; Leslie Crowther performed a side-splitting turn in front of a big screen in Robinson Crusoe in 1988 which was way ahead of its time. In atsy almer and Dere immo were joined in the cast of Cinderella by Postman Pat. At the risk of disillusioning too many children, it was customary, for ‘Pat’ to be played by one of the male dancers in a full

Aladdin 2016 – Jon Monie as Wishee Washee

THEATRE ANNA O’CALLAGHAN

head and costume. In fact, at the matinee, mem ers of o Office staff and our press officer, would ta e turns putting on at’ to do the finale wal down, ta e a ow and wa e a massive foam hand as if born to the role. (This is not something that would happen now… we would always employ the real Postman Pat!) Any feature on Theatre Royal Bath pantomimes must pay tribute to that doyen of the art, hris arris. hris’s first ath panto was Dick Whittington in 1984 in which he played the ship’s mate, alongside Eric Sykes. In the slosh routine that year the special mixture was made of ngel Delight. s hris left the stage for the shower after each splattering, Eric Sykes would give him a lick saying Oooohh, you do taste lo ely rom to 2013 (barring one stint as Buttons) Chris played dame – Widow wan ey, urse ellie, Dame rott and arah the Cook, his dames were warm, maternal, flatulent characters who invariably hailed from Twerton. In his final panto he played Governess Gertie wearing an authentic uniform loaned to him y orland ollege. Chris loved traditional panto business – comic sketches and slapstick gags derived from music hall and even earlier. The annual Ghost Scene gave the audience the chance to shout out ‘he’s behind you’ at every opportunity and then there was my personal fa ourite routine, potted Dic , Dic ’. or many years, hris arris and on

“Dames were warm, maternal, flat nt a a t who invariably hailed from Twerton”

Beauty & The Beast – Wendi Peters as Fairy Bon-Bon – 2019 Pantomime at Theatre Royal Bath

Until 12 January: Beauty & The Beast Monie played mother and son every hristmas, a dou le act filled with heart and humour. o dou t numerous ath children grew up believing they were really related, and Jon gave a lovely tribute to ‘his Mum’ when he played Buttons in 2014. Jon has played every comic character from Silly Billy to Simple Simon to Idle Jack, and last year, as Smee in Peter Pan, he made his one thousandth performance in a Theatre Royal Bath pantomime, an amazing achievement. This year he will be performing his own acclaimed script for Beauty & The Beast, starring as ouis a lon alongside ic Wilton, (himself celebrating his twentieth season playing dame), as Polly La Plonk and endi eters as airy on on. Jon is a brilliant comedian who understands exactly at what level to pitch the jokes in order to both crack up the kids and tickle the grownups (he slips in just one naughty joke each year). Two years ago, in Snow White, on, ic and Simeon, one of the seven dwarfs, performed a glorious adaptation of The 12 Days of Christmas complete with toilet rolls and various items of underwear, an incontestable addition to my pantheon of panto highlights. I can’t wait to see what they’re going to do this year. In the meantime, I am hopeful that I haven’t yet seen my last potted Dic , Dic ’. Anna O’Callaghan, Marketing Manager, Theatre Royal Bath, Sawclose; 01225 448844; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 85

14 & 15 Walcot Buildings, London Road, Bath BA1 6AD t: 01225 920 210 kelly@thebathframer.co.uk www.thebathframer.co.uk

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

HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH to host both short-term and long-term students. We teach adults and teenagers, and need both single and twin-room accommodation. For further details, including rates of payment, please contact our Accommodation Manager: Sarah Wringer, Kaplan International Languages Bath, 5 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB Direct Line (01225) 473502, Email: sarah.wringer@kaplan.com

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Best of three A quiz book like no other, a gorgeous atlas and stories from Glasto

“We get to hear from Jay Z, Dolly Parton and representatives from every one of the many genres”

ere’s a column with a split personality if ever there was one. As promised last time around, if you’re reading this in the first four days of the column’s published life then here’s the second part of a handy guide to some of my favourite books for gifting this Christmas. Only this time with added “Eek. Only a few days to go” urgency! Alternatively, if you’re reading this having been rendered immobile on your sofa by Christmas excess, then consider this a different kind of guide. ither it gives you the last-minute answers to the gifts you should have bought by now for the distant relatives you have to meet up with over New Year, or it gives you ideas on how to spend that stack of book tokens! Ordinarily I don’t tend to recommend “gift” books per se – those genre-less (and often content-free) funny or kooky books that are handed over on the 25th and all too often put away never to be read on the 26th. Quiz books can sometimes fall into that category, but this year Abject Quizzery by Karl Shaw (Old Street, £12.99) has ripped up the quizzing rule book with its challenging and comically pessimistic approach. There are no standard “what’s the capital city?” posers here; there’s an edge to every section. So one chapter asks you to match the children’s character to the more brutal original version, whereby the headline “violent, alcoholic racist goes on a murder spree, killing his wife and child” is revealed as the C17 original form of the still deeply unpleasant Mr Punch. With other quiz titles along the lines of “The Law’s an Ass”, “The Ice-Pick Man Cometh” and “Hope I Die Before I Get Old”, you soon get the vibe of this entertaining but irreverent quiz. The Atlas of Unusual Borders by Zoran Nikilic (Harper Collins, £14.99) is the latest in the never-ending string of inventive books for lovers of maps and geography. In this case it’s also a relevant gift to anyone interested in the world of shifting international bonds and divisions that we’re living in right now. The boundaries featured are dotted all around the globe and range from conventional and notorious international borders, such as those separating the nations of the former Yugoslavia, to more anomalous examples

such as cities that straddle two continents and island enclaves. The atlas is really handsomely presented – two or three-tone maps preface the chapters, mainly in the same striking blue and yellow livery of the book’s cover – and each segment of the narrative is bit-sized and full of fascinating titbits. We learn of the Slovene-Croatian border which no one seems terribly confident at fully locating with the result that one house appears to be in either country). Similarly there’s the Italian town of Campione d’Italia, which perhaps wears its Italian-ness so overtly on its sleeve because it is stranded from the rest of its home nation by virtue of residing on the Swiss bank of Lake Lugano and having mountains blocking the short route to Italy itself. The result is a city that accepts two currencies and has two sets of postcodes and two health services open to its residents. Another lavish book, this time on a bigger scale, is the superb visual celebration of the Glastonbury Festival. Glastonbury 50 by Michael and Emily Eavis themselves (Trapeze, £30) is a heavily illustrated account of how a dairy farmer’s dream in 1970 started off as a local shindig with tickets, music, dancing, 1000 visitors and free milk. Fast forward five decades and now over , visitors a year gravitate to that same farm to watch the world’s greatest performers. So many of the festival’s legends have chipped in their testimonies as to why this is the greatest music festival of them all; so we get to hear from Jay Z, Dolly Parton and representatives from every one of the many genres that lie between them. Alongside the quotes, anecdotes and memories are endless high quality illustrations – photographs of jubilant ag waving crowds in front of the Pyramid, equally jubilant (but more mysteriously so) mud-soaked revellers in less clement years and classic posters, ticket stubs and other ephemera. The perfect memory bank for existing festival fans or excitement-generator for those heading to Worthy Farm in 2020. 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 87

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Away from it all…

Jamie and Emma, founders of LA VIE EN ROSE extol the virtues of Glamping in the south of France…

2019 study showed that camping has great health benefits; from reducing stress and releasing serotonin to improving your blood pressure and giving your immune system an extra boost. But how about getting these extra benefits without the pain of a blow-up bed in a cramped tent? Glamping is the answer... Why Glamping? We are passionate about nature and the outdoors but also like our creature comforts. We decided it was time to offer the kind of family holiday we were looking for, combining all the best elements of the outdoor camping experience with the luxury of a boutique hotel. Our search for the perfect spot started our adventure seven years ago and led us to this little slice of France: set in the beautiful Haute-Garonne region, famous for its outstanding mountain views and unspoilt natural beauty. We fell in love with the breathtaking scenery, sunshine and fresh air.

What’s special about ‘La Vie en Rose’? We know how important your holiday is and therefore offer a place for you and your family to create special memories. Being a family-run site we strive to go that extra mile to ensure your stay is enjoyable and truly memorable. Down a country lane, hedged by oak trees and backing onto hundreds of acres of woodland, La Vie en Rose has an extensive seven acres for you to immerse yourself in nature and experience la douce vie. How has your idea evolved and what is the key to your success? Our first year was a huge learning curve, we had the key elements in place – luxury tents, private shower rooms, kitchens and breakfast delivered fresh to your tent. However, our guests gave us more ideas; now we have a heated saltwater swimming pool, outdoor lounge area and a large games room. Listening to our guests and having a personal approach has led us to be in ELLE magazine’s recommended top five cool camping in Europe, something we are very proud of.

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BUDO BA

A newly opened Japanese tapas bar has opened upstairs at The Grapes. We went to explore… By Harriet Noble

e try not to use the r-word” says avid Line, chef of Bud B , the new Japanese eaterie in Bath. Rather than a restaurant, it’s an Izakaya – a Japanese style tavern, not dissimilar to a tapas bar in Spain. For those of you who love their Japanese food, you’ll probably know David and Susannah Lemon (Susannah is front of house, together they run Bud B already. They’ve been running The Secret Izakaya, an informal Izakaya inspired supper club over the last year or so. It started out as an experiment while David took a sabbatical year from the University of Bristol and through word of mouth it uickly took off. They hosted meals in their at in Bath but soon started doing pop-ups in Frome and had a regular slot at The Good Bear Cafe. Meanwhile, The Grapes on Westgate Street reopened and Ellie and John Leiper, the owners, wanted to do

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

something different with the upstairs space. After trying one of the Izakaya supper clubs, they became convinced that creating an Izakaya upstairs from the pub was the way forward. After much work and on a complete shoestring budget, a small open-planned kitchen bar was built, the Jacobean era dining area was done up and they opened for business. Now, on having a few drinks at The Grapes you can wander upstairs and have some salty, spicy, umami rich small plates and a cold beer or glass of sake. Which is just what my pal and I do on a just-gettingChristmassy Saturday evening in Bath, where we find The Grapes is happily heaving. If you’ve not visited it since it reopened it’s changed quite a bit, losing the down at heel feel but has, thankfully, not been poshified. It is a proper pub. Following the sign by a staircase guiding us upstairs to the Izakaya we’re met with two seating areas – one a large room with the prettiest ceiling decorations, chandeliers

RESTAURANT

and a few large tables. Then there’s the kitchen, with a handful of stools where you can sit, eat and chat with the chefs – which is what we opt for. There are loads of “exposed” kitchens these days but this is really the real thing – you could literally stretch out your arm and touch the ingredients being prepared, not that we would advise this. In keeping with the tapas memo, the menu is categorised into dishes rather than courses, like sashimi and shellfish, skewers and fried goodies, ice cream and a selection of nibbles. e start off with the soy pickled shiitake mushrooms, described as ‘salty, sweet and utterly moreish’. Moreish is right, the contrast of deep salty and sweet avours is a winner, as is the very look of them – the silky mushrooms glisten and slip around such is their glassy appearance and shiny glaze. Next up is the Soriresu Chicken Oysters that claim to be ‘the best part of the thigh’ – this apparently is the piece of tendon that is pulled out when you split open the thigh. It’s a beautiful piece of meat sitting in a sticky, dense teriyaki sauce. There’s also Tori Karaage, which is Japanese-style chicken goujons, but with buckets more avour and dipped in Japanese mayo and Sea Bream Tartare, a version of ceviche. David tells us this is a highly pri ed fish that is cured overnight in kelp and is dressed in a yuzu citrus marinade. The meticulous preparation is apparent watching avid slice, chop, cook, and garnish it’s exacting work – all to produce food that is bright, fresh, with highly avoured sauces. As is typical of Japanese food, while the avours can be dense they are never overpowering and don’t leave you feeling heavy. With the kitchen-style tapas seating there’s a big social aspect to this place too. We chat to David, Susannah and the diners perching on the stools. It is the absolute opposite of intimidating – which is, perhaps unfairly, what some people think about Japanese cuisine. Perhaps it’s the assumption that it’s all fishy, a bit too minimalist or maybe it’s because there’s still mystery surrounding it and a lack of familiarity which means a lot of us are just a bit ignorant about Japanese cuisine we may know sushi but little else. If you fall into this camp, Bud B is a great place to start. David and Susannah set the tone for a really friendly, informal place (David’s backwards cap helps) where the food feels nurtured before it hits your plate and it retains a supper club vibe being both cool and cosy and where, at a pinch, you could be mistaken for thinking you were in Brooklyn or Hackney. There’s also something about the homegrown process of the set up between The rapes and Bud B that really appeals it’s wholly collaborative and unpretentious. avid says,“ e are offering something that no one else in the city is doing.” We’ll second that.

“It’s a highly r ﬁh that is cured overnight in kelp and dressed in a yuzu citrus marinade” DINING DETAILS Budo Ba; upstairs at The Grapes, 14 Westgate St, Bath BA1 1EQ; www.thegrapesbath.co.uk In a nutshell Japanese tapas dishes in a fun, informal setting We ate soy pickled shiitake mushrooms, miso cucumbers in sake-kasu, sea bream tartare, soriresu chicken oysters, chasu pork belly, tori karaage fried chicken with Japanese mayo, steamed rice; organic matcha ice cream Drinks good choice of sake, beer, whisky, cocktails (diners can pop down to the pub for any drinks that they might not serve) Prices nibbles £3-£3.50; tapas dishes £4.50 - £6.50; dessert £4

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

Join us on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve for our Bollywood Dinner and Dance Please call us to book to avoid disappointment

We will be open for Xmas Lunch. Please book in advance Check out our festive menus online

Now open in Bath (walk-ins only) Sun–Thurs: 12–11pm Fri–Sat: 12–11.45pm

Edgar Mews, Bartlett St, Bath BA1 2QZ

FOOD & DRINK S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S F O O D S C E N E

ON YOUR BIKE The Global Cycling Network, based on our doorsteps at Monmouth Street Studios have published a brand new book with acclaimed sports nutritionist and clinical dietician, Nigel Mitchell. The Plant-Based Cyclist, the latest book from the WorldTour nutritionist with Team Sky – who can boast the nutrition brains behind Olympic gold medals and Grand Tour wins – is part science manual, part life guide and part recipe book for cyclists of all abilities. Nigel builds a solid foundation with the science behind protein, fat and carbohydrate before moving onto the lifestyle section – what you’ll need in the cupboard and how you use it. We can’t think of a better book to pick up as we all head into the inescapable ‘new year new you’ phase of the season. For more: www.globalcyclingnetwork.com

Alex Peters, Jonah Pole and Andrew Peters celebrate the good news

GOLD STANDARD Bath Pizza Co is having a great year. In the latest of a string of accolades, they’ve been awarded Gold at the Pizza and Pasta Association (PAPA) Awards. The award recognises the restaurant in Green Park Station as one of the best independent pizza restaurants in the UK. The team from Bath Pizza Co’s success didn’t end there – head chef, Jonah Pole also made the shortlist for PAPA’s Pizza Chef of the Year Awards, nominated in three out of a possible four categories for the title. The PAPA Awards sets the benchmark for the quality of Italian cuisine in the UK, with Theo Randall, chef at The Intercontinental in London along with a host of other pro-chef judges determining the best of the best, year on year.

For more: www.bathpizzaco.com

SIMPLY THE BEST

The Mint Room are at the top of the game

The Mint Room on Lower Bristol Road has been named among the top 25 Indian restaurants in the UK by Big 7 Travel, the international online travel guide. Known for their contemporary, cool look and their delicious selection of adventurous and traditional Indian dishes, The Mint Room is a clear favourite among Bathonians – and now the UK at large. For more: www.mintroombath.co.uk

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

TRY FIVE 2

EAT OUT IN CORSHAM

We love the pretty market town of Corsham. A welcome escape from the crowds of the city centre, it makes for a perfect day trip. But where to eat when you’re there? We’ve got some ideas…

MOTHER & WILD Known for their small plates of seasonally evolving tapas and their fresh sourdough pizzas cooked in a brick wood fired oven, other & Wild on the High Street serve good food without being fussy. They’re serious about good pizza dough; it’s proofed for 36 hours, giving some serious avour and making it easy to digest before blasting it in the oven to create a crisp but chewy base with spots of char. It’s also worth popping by for an outstanding breakfast, whether you’re after something cooked or something cakey from the bakery. www.motherandwild.com

THE GREENHOUSE Sleek and ultra-modern, there’s no better spot to watch the sun go down over a cuppa than through the French windows of The Greenhouse at Wadswick Green. Lanterns hang low from the ceiling, lending a warm ambiance to the wooden and brass interior. Head chef Darren constructs a considered menu utilising the best produce, locally sourced where possible, while drink options include local gins and beers as well as a varied selection of wine. www.thegreenhousewg.co.uk

THE METHUEN ARMS A Georgian pub with a long and storied history – apparently the Duke of Edinburgh

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once played skittles and darts there on a night out with the oyal Arthur Petty fficer Training School gang from Westwells – The Methuen Arms on the High Street is just the right balance of laid back and luxury. Head chef Leigh Evans has quite the CV – Combe Grove Manor, The Chequers and The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa to name a few – and takes a ‘nose to tail’ approach to cooking, serving up delicious and innovative combinations. www.themethuenarms.com

PRIME CUT Sometimes all you need is steak at the end of a long week – in which case make haste to Prime Cut on Pickwick Road. Their eponymous prime grill always hits the spot; chargrilled, 30-day dry-aged beef from pasture reared cattle. Chosen for the avour and tenderness of the meat, everything about the meal says quality – in other words, exactly what you need from any treat-yourself dish. Distinct from the dining area, Prime Cut also features a bar and lounge – a perfect post-steak retreat or gathering spot for after work drinks. www.primecutrestaurant.co.uk

THE QUARRYMANS ARMS Cool bars are great and all, but sometimes all you want is a friendly face and a spot you can go for a drink with the family. The Quarrymans Arms on Box Hill provides

just that. If you happen to stop by during the all-too-short daylight hours you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Wiltshire countryside (just check their Instagram @thequarrymansarms for evidence) as you sip your beer – or hot chocolate, depending on your preferred winter warmer. Best of all, they’ve been through some recent refurbishments so the place is looking spick and span and stylish. www.butcombe.com

Would you like to work in Media Sales? We are always looking to hear from talented individuals who would like to work for MediaClash, presenting advertising opportunities and marketing solutions across our portfolio of fantastic local titles. We are a growing business and anticipate there being various opportunities over the next few months. If you would like to join our continuing success story please email your CV to pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk or give us a call anytime on 01225 475800 for a chat about the company, our magazines and available positions.

www.mediaclash.co.uk

OUTPOST, BY DAN RICHARDS Dan Richards explores the appeal of far-flung outposts in mountains, tundra, forests, oceans and deserts to find places that have long drawn the adventurous, the spiritual and the artistic. Perfect read for those searching for both solitude and adventure.

THE WESTERN WIND WIND, BY SAMANTHA HARVEY 15th century Oakham, in Somerset; a tiny village cut off by a big river with no bridge. When a man is swept away by the river in the early hours of Shrove Saturday, an explanation has to be found: accident, suicide or murder? Prepare to be gripped.

READ ALL ABOUT IT It’s time to hunker down with a good read – here is a selection from local authors

THE GIRL WITH THE LOUDING VOICE, BY ABI DARÉ Winner of the Bath Novel award in 2018, this debut novel about one girl’s struggle for freedom in modernday Nigeria will break hearts and inspire in one fell swoop.

All books are available from Mr B’s Emporium Bookshop; 14-15, John Street, Bath; www.mrbsemporium.com

NOW WE SHALL BE ENTIRELY FREE, BY ANDREW MILLER Set during the Spring and Summer of 1809 and shifting from Somerset to the Outer Hebrides, we follow the disgraced Lecroix – a cavalry officer, musician and fugitive – as he attempts to recover peace of mind in a place he will not be known.

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A LITTLE HATRED, BY JOE ABERCROMBIE From New York Times bestselling author Joe Abercrombie comes the first book in a fantasy trilogy where the age of the machine dawns, but the age of magic refuses to die. With the help of the mad hillwoman Isern-i-Phail, Rikke struggles to control the blessing, or the curse, of the Long Eye.

ED’S CHOICE AN UNFOLDING SOUL, BY DOUGLAS WESTCOTT Ian Morris lies in a coma in Bath’s RUH, mind and body shattered, with nothing remaining of his hard-earned fortune... Can he recover to re-build his property empire? Will he be part of the greed-driven destruction gripping historical Bath in the swinging sixties? An Unfolding Soul continues Wescott’s sweeping, coming of age saga.

THE BRISTOL AND BATH COOK BOOK, BOOK MEZE PUBLISHING Celebrating the thriving independent food scene in Bristol and Bath, this cook book showcases some of the region’s finest restaurants, bakeries, producers, delis and many more. Dig in.

TESTAMENT, TESTAMENT BY KIM SHERWOOD After the death of her grandfather, Eva is responsible for his legacy – a legacy threatened by a letter she finds. They have found the testimony her grandfather gave after surviving the labour camps in Austria. And, since he was one of Britain’s greatest twentieth century artists, they want to exhibit it. But Joseph Silk – leaving behind József Zyyad – remade himself long ago.

HOME, BY TIM NO ONE HOME WEAVER One Halloween, the whole village of Black Gale vanishes. There are no bodies, no evidence and no clues: the mystery of what happened remains unsolved two and a half years on. But then the families of the missing turn to investigator David Raker – and their obsession becomes his.

LANNY, BY MAX PORTER Shortlisted for the Waterstones Book of the Year 2019 and Longlisted for the Booker Prize 2019, this novel is part folklore, part fable exploiting the deep-dug tendrils of village life.

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ED’S CHOICE NEVERTELL BY NEVERTELL, KATHARINE ORTON Follow the bewitching snowy adventure of eleven-year-old Lina as she escapes form a soviet prison camp with her best friend Bogdan.

FOR THE KIDS…

SHADOW, BY LUCY CHRISTOPHER ‘In our old house, Ma told me there was nothing to be scared of. No monsters hiding behind doors, or in wardrobes, or under beds. She said there were no dark places at all. But in the new house, under my new bed, that’s where I found Shadow.’ We’re hooked.

ASHA AND THE SPIRIT BIRD, BY JASBINDA BILAN Highly evocative of rural India and the spiritual traditions and beliefs of the region, Asha and the Spirit Bird sends a determined young girl on a Himalayan adventure, with only her best friend and the spirit animal of her grandmother for company.

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

THE HOUSE OF LIGHT, BY JULIA GREEN It is the unspecified future and Bonnie lives with her lovely Granda in a house by the sea; climate change has wreaked havoc on the world. Her mother left mysteriously by boat when Bonnie was just a baby, presumably for a new life on a distant shore away from the harsh regime that is Bonnie’s world. When a strange boy lands on the beach, with a forbidden boat, this is Bonnie’s chance for freedom.

SNOW FOAL, BY SUSANNA BAILEY Dame Jacqueline Wilson said of this book, ‘I absolutely love Snow Foal – it’s so truthful, tender and touching. A book to read in a day and remember for a lifetime.’ Sounds good to us.

www.blossomandwren.shop

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the health, wellbeing & ﬁtness e pert Make 2020 your healthiest year yet

JOE HAINES

POWER10 @power10bath; www.power10bath.com What’s the best way for someone to motivate themselves to get fit? Spend time (as long as it takes) to identify what you really want. Do you want to look better? Do you want to feel healthier? Include ways you can measure your progress. The only way to find true motivation is if you are deeply compelled by your goal. What mindset will help people succeed with their New Years’ goals? Shorten the timeframe. One year is often too long to

ANNA HAYWARD

FOUNDER, VERVE WELLNESS FESTIVAL 4-6 September 2020, Chalke Valley, Wiltshire

07930 398 432; www.feeltheverve.com Tell us about the product/services that you offer. VERVE FESTIVAL 2020 will offer yoga, Pilates, breathwork, sound bathing, circuits and farm runs. There will be expert talks on all things health and wellness as well as stargazing, nature walks and foraging. In addition, we will have a kid’s programme, delicious food and drink and music. I’m also looking at some slightly more ‘out there’ activities such as drum circles and kundalini dance. What one food rule should we all be following? This is going to sound weird but I think it will be the next food trend – miso on toast! I use it instead of marmite and it’s delicious. Umami flavours and gut health rolled into one. What are your tips for managing stress? The month before the festival was pretty stressful, but putting on my trainers and going for a run completely saved me. We live in an AONB and the scenery is stunning. As little as half an hour running out on the downs and I came back cool, calm and collected again.

stick to something. Interestingly, it can also give you too much time to achieve your goal, as it becomes far too easy to put it off until later in the year. Try shortening your goal to, say, 10 weeks. What advice would you give someone that hates exercise? Don’t settle for something you don’t enjoy; it will always end in failure. Keep searching for a different type of activity. Until you find something that doesn’t feel like exercise, fitness then becomes the by-product of having fun. How do our workouts differ from other workouts out there? We create a 10-week training programme in which to focus on achieving that compelling goal.

TEAM BATH ICONIC TRAINER PROGRAMME For more details or to book a session with Jason or Amy please visit: www.teambath.com/fitness/iconic-trainer JASON GARDENER MBE Olympic Champion, Jason Gardener, knows first-hand that structured exercise programmes combined with goal setting can quickly improve your physical and mental wellness. Jason is passionate about working with clients who are motivated to improve their health. Despite being an Olympic Champion, he understands the challenges and barriers that every-day life can bring – the kind of challenges which prevent people from taking necessary action or from setting time aside to put their health first. Making the decision to work with Jason means getting the best out of yourself whether in the gym or during speed and endurance sessions on the track – whether working on weight loss or strength and conditioning goals. Jason is passionate about supporting people in a responsible way and working with him will be an energising and rewarding experience as well as providing a unique opportunity to gain from a professional with proven expertise and experience delivering results within the sport and health industry. Jason is an Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth Champion (Athletics). He is a Level 3 Qualified PT and Level 4 British Athletics Performance Sprint Coach. Jason has worked on elite performance programmes with British Athletics and Bath Rugby as well as well as working with private clients.

AMY WILLIAMS MBE Winter Olympic Champion Amy Williams knows what it takes to motivate yourself, set goals, overcome setbacks or disappointments and still be successful. She can motivate and inspire you to transform and sustain your health and fitness levels. She brings a wealth of insights and background to her personal training and red-letter experience days. These include her 2010 Olympic goldmedal campaign but also her background as a 400m runner as well as explaining the determination she needed to overcome challenges in rallying and during multiple televised TV challenges. Amy can offer gym-based solutions for you and will add insights from her experience with top tips on how to get the best out of yourself, even with limited time and initial fitness levels. She will join you on your journey, offering a bespoke fitness plan together with support to help you stick with it. Amy is a Level 3 Qualified PT.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

BRYONY MILES

UPSIDE DOWN VEGAN 07444 262025; www.upsidedownvegan.co.uk What led you to become a personal trainer? It was back in July 2013 when my mum suddenly passed away from cancer I had some sort of ‘light bulb’ moment. I had been living an unhealthy life for nearly 10 years as a drug addict. Fitness had never even been on my radar up until this point. Her death changed my life completely and I decided to take control of my health and fitness. I began training a lot in a local gym and the more I did it and talked about it, the more my friends and family encouraged me to take it up as my career. So I did just that and now I honour the lifestyle I have built to my Mum!

MARGO SINGLETON

JESSICA TILL

BATH PILATES ACADEMY 07939 994757; www.bathpilatesacademy.uk Why did you decide to become a Pilates teacher? I decided to become a Pilates teacher when I discovered the benefits of regular practice which helped relieve back pain and a frozen shoulder. I quit my job in marketing, trained with Body Control in London and set up in 2013. I discovered the Franklin Method in 2017 and qualified last year specialising in the pelvis and the spine. It creates lasting positive change in the body and mind. We use techniques and tools that teach you to improve your movement whether it’s running, Pilates, dance, walking, sitting – everything. This method is used by top athletes and sports people with proven success and it’s fun and makes your body feel great. Tell us about the services that you offer... I offer Pilates classes for all levels of fitness and ages and this year I’ll be hosting regular Franklin Method workshops. I have a lovely studio where I teach private lessons that are tailored to you as an individual. This way you can choose a time that suits you and get all the attention. My classes are fun and instructive. I believe exercise should be enjoyable and taught in a friendly helpful way. If it’s a grind and you get little or no instruction or focus on your performance then you can’t improve or experience that feeling of success when you achieve a movement you’ve been working towards for the first time. I only take up to 12 people in a class at one time so I can correct everyone if required.

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Is there one food rule you think we should all follow? I believe we should all eat plant-based, that’s what nature provided for us to do. There are so many marketing gimmicks that feed us lies about the fitness and health industry that I despise. We have too much information these days and no one knows what to believe anymore. I have been a thriving fit and healthy vegan living off a plantbased diet for nearly four years now and it’s the single best thing I have done as well as becoming a PT. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, grains and seeds are all the healthiest things we can eat to live a super healthy and energetic lifestyle. And yes you can still eat your vegan cake and enjoy it too! Balance in our diet is key, I don’t deprive my body of eating out from time to time.

TRI3E YOGA 07887 548336; jessicalauratill@yahoo.co.uk; www.tri3eyoga5.wixsite.com Tell me about the services that you offer... I am a massage therapist, personal trainer and yoga teacher, specialising in Ashtanga yoga in some of the most exclusive and prestigious gyms and yoga studios in Bath.

ROWENA HUNT

WELLNESS | BREATH | YOGA 07855 355729; www.rowenahunt.com What mind-set will help people succeed with their New Year’s goals? We often focus on what we ‘should’ or ‘should not’ eat and forget to ask ourselves why we make the choices we do. Seek out imbalance in the rest of your life and ditch diet and deprivation. Eat nutritionally dense, unprocessed foods to satiate your body’s needs so unwanted cravings naturally fade. Have fitness and nutrition always been a big part of your life? No. I worked in the hedonistic, high octane, high stress world of Hong Kong finance for years before realising it was making me sick, unhappy and physically old before my time. My coaching is inspired by those experiences. Tell us about the services that you offer. I use intuitive wellness & life coaching, breath techniques, physical yoga and EFT to help clients highlight unhelpful habits and make small, consistent changes towards their goals. I empower people to feel comfortable in their own skin; finding balance and reducing stress, while gaining strength and flexibility in body and mind.

How would you describe your philosophy about being fit and healthy? I am a very firm believer in a balanced approach to health and fitness. There is no need for exercise and nutrition to feel like a punishment – it should be about loving your body and feeling great and confident about yourself. How do your workouts differ from other workouts out there? My intention is to always make my classes or 1:1 sessions fun, friendly and totally nonjudgemental. I always try to make my sessions as enjoyable as possible and have gained a reputation for encouraging my clients to work hard, without them realising it until the end of a session. What advice would you give to someone that hates exercise? Try lots of different ways to exercise – there are so many options out there. You need to find what works for you. Whether that be group training, HIIT, lifting weights, yoga, so long as you’re moving your body, you’re exercising.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

LUKE WILSON

PERSONAL TRAINER, TEAM BATH GYM 01225 383565; @wilson.strength empiricalstrengthsystems@gmail.com

KATIE BRINDLE

BATH YOGA STUDIO 01225 313153; bathyogastudio.com

Tell us about your background. I am a personal trainer and powerlifting coach. As a teenager I was extremely active and would train in the gym to improve my sports performance. Since becoming a powerlifter in 2017, I am now a two-time English and one-time British champion and have represented Team GB internationally.

Anything new and exciting on the horizon? I’m involved in developing exciting new courses with the Academy for Yoga Training, for anyone interested in becoming a 200-hour Yoga Alliance certified teacher or learning more about yoga in their own practice. I’m super passionate about high quality, accessible and integral yoga qualifications and development.

What products and services do you offer? At the Team Bath Gym I offer one-to-one personal training sessions, small group training sessions, powerlifting and circuit classes. I also offer bespoke training plans and coaching for powerlifters and strength athletes to help them perform to their best in their sport.

Tell us about your wellbeing service or offering… I created Hayo’u to offer an integrated approach to wellness. I knew that Chinese medicine had the answer to wellbeing; and so distilled it into the Hayo’u Method. Hayo’u combines the wisdom of Chinese medicine, products and techniques into one-minute rituals. These three simple self-treatments deliver instant results and long-term benefits for both health and beauty.

What advice would you offer a company for wellbeing in the workplace? Taking just one hour out of your normal routine to practise some yoga stretching, breathing and mindfulness is bound to help reduce work stress and improve productivity. We sacrifice our health for money and then spend money to recoup our health, yet for such a tiny part of our week, compromise doesn’t need to be an option.

What inspires you? Seeing my clients or people in the gym achieve things they didn’t think they would ever be capable of. This is what gives me so much job satisfaction.

DIANE LEE

Do you have any tips or tricks to living a healthy life? I live, breathe and practise yoga on and off the mat. It is a way of life for me, so it comes naturally to eat cleanly, exercise, move and stay positive through taking ownership for every decision and consequence. Eating a vegetarian diet and staying grounded and grateful have served me hugely after immense periods of challenge. Our influences massively affect our thoughts and feelings.

ALISON MCDOWALL & FINN PREVETT THE POSITIVE PLANNER www.thepositiveplanners.com

Tell us about your wellbeing service or offering… Our mission is to empower everyone to make their mental health a priority. We do this by creating a range of exciting, inspirational, beautiful and informative planners, journals, artworks and workshops. Anything new and exciting on the horizon? We have just launched our brand new Positive Wellness Journal, full of ways to help nourish your mind, body and soul. It encourages you to bring awareness to how you move through your day.

What is the first piece of get-healthy advice you would give? This advice sounds ‘boring’ or simple but is effectively the only way to get results in and outside the gym. My advice is to be consistent – you won’t feel really motivated for every session but if you show up consistently, you’re always making steps to your end goal.

HAYO’U www.hayoumethod.com

Anything new and exciting on the horizon? We’ve just launched the Hayo’u Body Tapper Bamboo. Body tapping provides a simple and hugely effective way to support your health. It boosts circulation, supports lymphatic drainage and relaxes muscles. We also recently launched The Hayo’u Beauty Restorer Comb, a multipurpose tool used for body and head combing, which is brilliant for cellulite and weight loss, thinning hair, headaches and much more. Do you have any tips or tricks to living a healthy life? 1. Restore: Relax and rejuvenate with gua sha. 2. Reset: Supercharge your circulation by tapping. 3. Rescue: Oxygenate your blood with the Rescue Breath. These three steps maximise your body’s natural processes – which can transform your health.

Simple actions such as setting your intentions in the morning and then reflecting in the evening are a great way to bring positivity to your life. What’s your approach to managing stress? Writing can help you understand how you feel and make things feel more manageable – sometimes just getting things off your chest can really lighten the load. It’s a method used for hundreds of years and since the introduction of technology we have lost touch with the power of the pen. We believe that emotional intelligence is a skill to be honed and by introducing writing in to your self-care ritual you can better understand what you need in order to thrive.

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SERVICES GUIDE HOME CARE

GUIDE to SERVICES in the

CITY

GARDEN SERVICES

GARDENERS AND LANDSCAPERS

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800 STONE SPECIALIST

Repairs, Restoration Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build Stone Cleaning Stone Carving Fireplaces

Tel: 01225 462688 / 07968 697091

ROUTINE GARDEN MAINTENANCE, RESCUES, MAKE-OVERS AND NEW PROJECTS 01225 783344 | 07970 008810 www.axfordgardenservices.com

PLUMBING AND HEATING

GAS CENTRAL HEATING & BOILER REPLACEMENTS RADIATORS & TOWEL RAILS

07801 279480 | www.amhancock.co.uk

Email: Julian@bathstonemasons.co.uk

www.bathstonemasons.co.uk JEWELLERY

To advertise here call â&#x153;&#x2020; 01225 475800

BUILDERS

Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition.

High quality home renovations, extensions and building projects

Nigel Dando

Established 25 Years

11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk

T: 07714 252847 E: info@westbuilders.co.uk

www.westbuilders.co.uk

Independent Directors Independent Funeral Funeral Directors 01225 426 822 For a truly personal and caring service, from a family run independent firm, call us day or night, 24/7, 365 days a yearâ&#x20AC;Ś For our pre-paid funeral plans with Perfect Choice, please contact us for further information. Bath Branch: Windsor Place Upper Bristol Road Bath, BA1 3DF (01225) 426822

Frome Branch: Marthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House Broadway, Frome BA11 3HA (01373) 463888

Saltford Branch: 489B Bath Road Saltford, Bristol BS31 3HA (01225) 426822

Meet some of the team: L-R: Martyn Hurst, Paul Lawrance, Annie Booker, Mandy Lee, Karen Lambert-Gorwyn

L-R: Ian Marsh, Steve Pillinger, Josh Jones, Terry Wyatt

Carol Spalding Director

www.clarksonsfuneraldirectors.co.uk contact@clarksonsfuneraldirectors.com

Sophie May Director

Foreign Languages Centre

Enrolling now! Daytime, lunchtime and evening foreign language classes for members of the public.

Arabic French German Italian Japanese Mandarin Chinese Portuguese Spanish We offer a wide range of foreign languages at beginner through to advanced level. To find out more about the courses available, or to enrol, visit our website www.bath.ac.uk/flc and apply online or call 01225 383991.

NEW TO BATH The cream of the crop from Mr Florista

PICK OF THE BUNCH A healthy crop of businesses has sprung up in Bath in 2019, bringing new ideas, awesome products and fresh inspiration to our streets. Rachel Ifans and Lydia Tewkesbury catch up with 50 of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new kids on the block

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FOOD AND DRINK

Broad Street Townhouse

It’s a pub with rooms, owned by Liberation Group, which also owns Butcombe Brewery and the townhouse’s next-door-neighbour, The Pig and Fiddle. It’s also a gorgeous renovation of a late 19th-century Grade-II listed Bathonian townhouse that had stood unloved and unused since 011. E pect to find period eatures, cool colours, a daytime ca and night time dancefloor. on’t e pect to find Teasmades, instant coffees, a pint o lager and a bag o crisps. The Blind Pig, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar, which lights up when the light dims, also serves up well-chosen charcuterie and British cheeses. www.broadstreettownhouse.co.uk

Dr Gelato

octor, doctor, give me the news. ell, the news rom range rove is that great ice cream makes you eel happy, so get down to r elato or your prescription. e make our ice cream resh, every day, and regularly change our flavours to incorporate seasonally available ingredients or invent play ul flavours or events, says co owner avin enderson. e love to surprise our customers with une pected flavours this year some popular ones have included bacon and maple syrup, Bath Blue cheese and fig, a grape ruit and basil sorbet, the ruffalo inspired wl ce ream’ or the hildren’s Book estival) and even an insect ice cream or alloween ur hazelnuts are rom a arm in iedmont in Northern taly, our Pistachios come directly from the producer in Bronte, Sicily, our fruit is from the Bristol Fruit Market and all our organic milk and cream is rom the hew alley. www.drgelato.co.uk

LEFT: Only the best from Landrace Bakery; ABOVE: Team Dr Gelato

DUTCHBOY WAFFLES Fresh handmade Stroop waffles in a wide range of exciting flavours, sold online, in the café/ bakery on 1 Grove street and via selected local wholesalers like Society Café. Waffles are homemade fresh to order using local and responsible ingredients. www.dutchboywaffles.com

Landrace Bakery

Bakers are wise people – you only need to meet Andrew Lowkes, owner of Landrace Bakery to see that. Landrace is a small bakery, with coﬀee and a communal table, which bakes naturally leavened bread exclusively from traditionally stoneground and UK-grown grains. They pride themselves on good hospitality and we’re not just talking good

OYSTER SHELL Meet Oyster, Scallop’s sister. The new fish ‘n’ chip takeaway in Moorland Road has the same ethos as its sit-in sister restaurant on Monmouth Place: fresh produce direct from the morning’s catch so an ever-changing menu and some English classics too. www.theoystershell.co.uk THE GRAPES This newly reopened vibey pub on Westgate Street is under new management and combines live music, a great selection of drinks and daytime events to much applause. Hungry from a few pints? There's Japanese tapas from Budo Bo upstairs as well, see restaurant review on page 90. www.thegrapesbath.co.uk

CIRCO BAR Not a new bar perhaps, but a new owner nonetheless. And jugfuls of new ideas too. Mike Philips has given the drinks menu a shake-up and also broadened the opening hours during the week. www.circobar.co.uk

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BANDOOK KITCHEN Indian street food in Bath? Yes, please. From the hallowed chef-y greatness of The Mint Room? Now you’re talking. Are you in the mood for chats-and-chaats? Yup. Then I suggest you get down to Bandook Kitchen in Milsom Place, and order yourself a Rarah Keema Khasta (rustic Indian Shepherd’s pie) pronto. www.bandookkitchen.com

NEW TO BATH service; it’s the whole experience of being made to feel welcome in a fun and convivial environment. Like being able to chat across the counter with the chef who’s cooking your lunch. 2019 has been a good one. “Our highlight of the year was visiting Felin Ganol last week—a working 17th-century watermill that has just begun milling our 2019 wheat harvest grown for us by our partners at Westcombe Dairy, near Bruton,” says Andrew. “It means that, less than 10 months after opening, we’re now baking with our own grains grown less than 20 miles away. Beyond sourdough, this is our deﬁnition o real bread we know where every grain has come from, and who grew and milled it.” @landracebakery on Instagram

RETAIL

Lux & Bloom

Feature wallpaper. It’s just one of those phrases that is so lacking in pzazz, so plain and so apposite to the beautiful ‘oeuvres’ it sometimes describes. It certainly doesn’t do justice to the beauty of Bath-based Lux & Bloom’s work. The fabrics and wallpaper designs all originate as hand-drawn illustrations and artist/founder Louise Rushford puts her heart and soul into the short-run, eco-friendly designs. Being stocked in John Lewis’ ord Street ﬂagship store has led to some fantastic projects this year, including one where a customer chose Lux & Bloom fabrics, wallpapers, cushions and lampshades for every bedroom in her house. L&B also partners locally with Bath Boutique Stays across all of their Bath luxury rental apartments. www.luxandbloom.com

LEFT: Lux & Bloom styling it up; ABOVE: Cathy Wilkin from Sumptuous Designerwear; BELOW LEFT: Check out brand new Bandook

Mr Florista

Abracadabra! Mr Florista has brought some serious botanical wizardry to Bath this year. Rather than offering a huge range o floral bunches, they provide one Florists Pick bunch (available in two sizes) which changes depending on what’s in season and what’s looking its best at the flower market. This means they can put more flowers in your bunch and far fewer in the bin. Their main passion is creating unusual installations for businesses and events, a highlight being the rainbow floral bench at the Bath estival closing weekend. Co-owner Sophie Overment tells us more about the business in bloom.“We’re committed to giving back through our Random Acts of Flowers. Every time you buy something from us, a percentage of what you pay goes towards funding bunches for people who really deserve them. At the end of each month, we make up bunches and surprise individuals and organisations who have been nominated by the lovely people of Bath.” www.mrflorista.com

Sumptuous Designerwear

Essentially, it’s a designer resale clothing boutique, selling new and preloved luxury and premium brands on behalf of clients, but with lots of people changing their buying behaviours and ‘not buying new for a year’, Sumptuous has rocked up in Walcot bang on time. “Most of our stock comes out of clients’ wardrobes, so there simply aren’t production or transport costs involved,” says owner Cathy Wilkin. “It’s all about recycling, and working with local seamstresses to inject an upcycling angle where needed.” www.sumptuousdesignerwear.co.uk

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NEW TO BATH BLOSSOM AND WREN Designer Zoe Jeffrey launched this Bath-based gymwear business in January with a start-up loan. The USPs of her gym gear are threefold: sizes range from 8 to 26; co-design workshops help find the perfect fit for everyone; and finally, all items are made to order in 14 days, enabling a dramatic drop in waste. www.blossom-and-wren.com CONSCIOUSLY YOU Consciously You on Chelsea Road is filled with ingredients for living a more sustainable life. Owner Ann Perry thinks it’s possible to change a lifetime of buying habits. “By providing sustainable, eco-friendly products that are produced by like-minded individuals and companies, we give our customers eco alternatives to everyday products – without breaking the bank.” @consciouslyyoubath on Instagram GARDEN GIFTING Luxury hampers featuring a mix of local, artisan and classic British brands for gardeners and also botanical products. www.gardengifting.com

LEFT: From Paris to Bath, Claire Morris will shoot them all; BELOW: Understated chic at Francis Gallery

CREATIVE

Claire Morris Photography

Having shot for the country’s top music and fashion magazines, Claire was definitely not interested in wedding photography. That is, until she did one for a friend and realised that she could weave much of her editorial and ashion e pertise into the abric o a wedding shoot. t’s been global travel, lu ury hotels and stunning surroundings ever since. And what about her business makes her most proud? never gave up. That’s the hardest challenge to get through when first running a business. kept going and now ’m on top o my game, being featured in all the top fashion and luxury wedding magazines, shooting celebrities and some of the most extravagant weddings in the world. ’m very proud o mysel or that. “My super power, as people call it, is to be able to pose my clients to look antastic. have tried and tested secrets that ensure get the best out o the client and make them look outstanding. www.clairemorrisphotography.com Francis Gallery dwells in Fountain Buildings, the old Bang & Olufsen store at the bottom corner o Lansdown Road. ere in two spaces one ull o light, flooding in through large windows acing onto the unction, the other more like a domestic living room you can see a selection o paintings and intriguing domestic items, chiefly ceramics and small pieces o urniture. ’ve always elt people should be able to see the art they buy in a space that resembles their own home, says owner Rosa ark. She also sells a lot o her curated work online. nstagram is definitely the biggest tra c driver to our website. e’re in Bath but our buyers are everywhere, so the only thing have is nstagram. wouldn’t have opened this gallery pre-social media, because it would have been a catastrophe. The uture looks bright with pop ups in the and there are plans a oot or a second rancis allery in LA in 0 1. www.francisgallery.co

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Francis Gallery

HEALTH AND WELLBEING CLASS

LASS Bouti ue itness, tucked into the ground floor o Sovereign oint on Bath’s Riverside, was co ounded by Rob Suchet yes, son o oirot and offers gym memberships with no oining ee and no contract. e have a wide range o membership options, rom per calendar month, as well as pay as you go credit or ultimate fle ibility says Rob. This lasts a year, and can be shared with riends and amily. ur class sizes are small, to keep them intimate and ensure you get ma imum ocus rom your instructor. And our studios and other acilities are reminiscent o a bouti ue hotel, rom rain orest showers to lu urious cotton bath towels, Natural Spa actory products to hairdryers. e want you to love coming to LASS, and eel like training is a treat not a chore. you’re a ter a usion o high intensity e ercise, restorative yoga and primal movement classes with nutrition all under one roo , try a class at LASS. www.class-bath.co.uk

Goodbody Wellness

oodbody sells natural B products, rom ingestible oils and capsules and vape e li uids, to bath and skin care products and even coﬀee. B is derived rom hemp, which is legal in the , and some have claimed it has improved conditions rom chronic pain to epilepsy, and insomnia to depression. Bath’s got such a lovely community eel, says oko argreaves, digital marketing e ecutive at oodbody. e eel that the people o Bath are e actly our demographic, ust the kind o people who should be looking or this product, and hope ully will be looking or this product. Everything about Bath suits our aesthetic, our eeling. www.goodbodywellness.co.uk

The Soul Spa

The wellbeing industry has gone mainstream. n keeping with this, and perhaps taking it to a new level, is Bath’s The Soul Spa a new centre offering a range o classes that aim to make us eel balanced and happy. The centre is located on etling ourt, a stone’s throw rom the Thermae Bath Spa, and there are different sections a mind, body, and spirit zone, a uantum field and the zen den. on’t be ooled by the word spa’ it’s not a place o lu ury strictly or the elite. Although it does offer massages, the main ocus is very much on the mind body connection, with meditation at the ore ront o that. orning classes are or raising your energy, lunchtime classes may help find the creative part o your mind, or enable to you take an iRest power nap to set you up or the a ternoon, says owner adeline

So many businesses launched in Bath this year we can’t possibly include everyone, but here’s a taster of a few more newbies of 2019 FOOD & DRINK Mantra; www.mantraofbath.co.uk Budo Ba; www.thegrapesbath.co.uk/budo-ba Hondo Sushi; www.hondosushi.co.uk Dos Dedos; www.dosdedos.co.uk Lottie’s Ice Cream; www.lottiesicecreams.com The Avon Parade; www.theavonparade.com Eight Stony Street; www.eightstonystreet.com The Provenist; www.theprovenist.com Underwood Restaurant; www.underwoodbath.com Bikanos Indian Cuisine; @bikanosindiancuisine on Facebook

Goodbody Wellness on Broad Street

Blackburn. The evenings are about de stressing and setting yoursel up or a good night’s sleep. www.thesoulspa.co.uk

BUSINESS Stone King

Two leading Bath law firms Stone ing and owbray oodwards pooled resources this year, and in the process became one o the largest and most e perienced private client teams in the South est. e are both well known firms in Bath with similar cultures, says Steven reenwood, managing partner at Stone ing. e both pride ourselves on understanding our clients’ needs and providing a personal service, but also believe in caring or our people and the wider community. owbray oodwards has always been a firm that respect and this is a great opportunity or us both to oin together to grow in strength and e pertise. The merger with owbray oodwards is part o the firm’s ongoing e pansion strategy. www.stoneking.co.uk

HOME & LIFESTYLE Jim Lawrence; www.jim-lawrence.co.uk Hazel & Blue; www.hazelandbluecandles.co.uk Eight Holland Street; www.8hollandstreet.com Olive Interiors; www.batholive.com Sam Wilson Studio; www.samwilsonstudio.com Portman Home; www.portmanlondon.uk Pasha Living; www.pashaliving.com Marloe Interiors; www.marloeinteriors.com

Le Barbier; www.lebarbier.co.uk Black Sails Barber; www.blacksailsbarbershop.nearcut.com Ubiety; www.findubiety.com Benedict Raven; www.benedictraven.co.uk Abbot Lyon; www.abbottlyon.com Honey Willow Jewellery; www.honeywillow.com HOTELS Hotel Indigo; www.hotelindigo.com Leighton House; www.leightonhousebath.co.uk

HEALTH & WELLBEING Luther Training; www.luthertraining.com FLY Fitness; www.flyfitness.co.uk The Hive Yoga Studio; www.jointhehive.co.uk TAKE OVERS AND MERGERS Epoch merged with Brewin Dolphin; HAIR, BEAUTY & FASHION www.brewin.co.uk Emily Mander Hair; www.emilymanderhair.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 117

It’s the city’s business

BATHWORKS THIS ISSUE >>BATH ALES APPRENTICES (119) >>AWARDS WIN FOR WOOLLEY GRANGE (120) >>ONE TO WATCH (122)

SUCCESS IS BREWING or the first time in its year history, Bath Ales is welcoming two new brewing apprentices to the team. Ella Jones and Rob Alder beat off some stiff competition to earn their places on the two-year apprenticeship at Hare Brewery in Warmley. Reporting to head brewer Georgina Young, Ella and Rob will gain hands on brewery e perience as well as developing their technical knowledge by completing a Level ualification at Nottingham niversity, e uivalent to the first year o a bachelor’s degree. The course only launched in ebruary o this year, the first o its kind in the . “We’re delighted to be welcoming Rob and Ella to our team. t’s so important that we offer high uality training opportunities and look to nurture the ne t generation of talent within the beer industry,” Georgina says, “Apprenticeships are a great foot in the door for people wanting to work in brewing, so we’re really happy to be able to offer this opportunity here at Bath Ales. For more: www.bathales.com

Rob Alder and Ella Jones will be the first brewing apprentices at Bath Ales

Nestify manage your Airbnb for you

Flexibility rules

estify, the Airbnb management service has launched in Bath. The company, which will look after your Airbnb for you from set up to dealing with guests, is encouraging landlords to consider short to mid-term lets as well as long-term tenancies in response to the sluggish buy-to-let market. An option for landlords looking or ﬂe ibility, who have a gap in their tenancies or who might be selling but still want to generate income while they hunt for a buyer, the business uses a smart algorithm to automatically adjust pricing in real time based on the season, competition and reviews. inance ﬁgures show an 11 per cent decrease in buy-to-let purchases

in the year leading up to September, while the Airbnb market is relatively booming, welcoming 8.4 million guests in the period rom July 01 01 . “This year has been tough for landlords,” says Hedi Zidan, Nestify’s founder and CEO. overnment ta re orms have pushed up prices and for many, buy-tolet is no longer the attractive investment it once was. But there are other options out there, and long term lets aren’t the only option available. We enable landlords to have a mi o short, mid or long term lets, giving them ﬂe ibility tailored to their circumstances, or even homeowners who want to generate income from their primary home while away or relocating.” For more: www.nestify.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115

BATHWORKS

NEW to Bath

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN

Just over two months remain until the prestigious Bath Life Awards on 27 February – and nominations are coming in fast for what's hotting up to be the biggest ceremony yet. Businesses hoping for an awardwinning start to 2020 are encouraged to enter their nomination before the New Year rush. With the panel of independent judges prepped, nominations open and just a few category sponsorships remaining, excitement is building for the glittering Bath Life Awards – the city’s biggest business celebration. Nominations close next month

SPONSORED BY

on Thursday 10 January and, for yet another year, tickets have been restricted to ﬁnalists only a ter incredibly high demand. Finalists will be announced on 15 January, to coincide with tickets going on sale. Sponsors and ﬁnalists will also be invited to a special reception event on 4 February at The Botanist – perfect for networking before the big night. The Bath Life Awards are on 27 February at the Assembly Rooms and are headline sponsored by The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk @BathLifeAwards

www.mooreswit.co.uk 01225 486100

What a spread

Make 2020 an award-winning year

GOODNESS GRAZERS Robyn Hatley took over catering company Goodness Grazers in early 2019. She shares the trials and triumphs o her ﬁrst year at the helm.

Tell us about Goodness Grazers...

BEST IN SHOW

Caroline Mackay, marketing manager receives the award from singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor

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

The Woolley Grange Hotel in Bradford on Avon has won a Family Traveller Excellence Award. The award recognises the hotel as one of the top 50 family experiences in the world because of its ‘back to nature’ style, oﬀering amily ocused activities like a seed to harvest experience with its head gardener, the chance to learn new skills like making your own pesto with their award-winning head chef and even walking Rex, the hotel’s dog in the extensive grounds. “We were delighted to win this wonderful award,” says Caroline Mackay, marketing manager at Woolley Grange Hotel. “We were competing alongside well known attractions such as the London Zoo, so feel really grateful that members of the public recognised and appreciated what we do to make a stay at our hotel both relaxing and enjoyable for all members of the family, whatever their age.” For more: www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk

oodness razers is Bath’s ﬁrst and ﬁnest grazing caterer. Grazing tables and platters are a brandnew foodie concept in the UK. We provide locally sourced, quality ingredients, arranged in a showstopper style that encourages sociable dining. How are you doing things differently?

We aim to transform the usual catering of ‘beige food’ to a tantalising and visual display. We love to promote our suppliers across our social media platforms – we’re all about collaboration and support, not competition. We are an eco-friendly business, so we encourage our suppliers to use eco-friendly packaging and our own platters, bowls, cutlery, etc are all either compostable or bio-degradable. We also support local charities, either by using their products (Step & Stone) or by donating prizes. What are some of the challenges of launching a new business?

The business had already been operating on a small scale or si months when took it over. y ﬁrst challenge was to put my own stamp on it and to learn how to use Instagram. Now, a lot of my business comes from Instagram – so I’m proud of that. Another initial challenge was breaking into the foodie scene, as Bath has a lot of wonderful food options available. However, I’ve found that the concept of grazing has appealed to so many – both for private events and business events. My biggest challenge now is managing all our bookings – we’re currently booking into late 2020 for some events. At the moment, I’m assisted by my two entrepreneurial daughters, but I’m considering taking on staﬀ as we grow. For more: www.goodnessgrazers.co.uk

BATH SPORTS NEWS Bringing you the latest in sporting news

Kirsty Way

BOUNCING BACK irsty ay has bounced back rom in ury to represent Great Britain at the 2019 Trampoline Gymnastics World hampionships in Tokyo. She’s missed out on much of this year’s competition after being side lined by a mystery knee in ury. A ter making the decision to undergo surgery in June, with the help of her strength and conditioning coaches at Team Bath she made her triumphant return to the British hampionships, where she went on to win a gold medal that earned her a place in Tokyo. oming back rom in ury and becoming British hampion was beyond all expectations,” says Kirsty. “I missed all of the orld hampionship trial events during the year through in ury, so I knew it was my last chance to qualify for Tokyo. It was all or nothing but I managed to get way over the qualifying score, so I was really happy.” n Tokyo, irsty went on to win the third orld hampionship medal of her career, securing a silver for the Great Britain double mini trampoline T) team. irsty was the ﬁnal Brit to compete in the women’s team ﬁnal and scored . 00 the highest individual score of the competition. or more www.team at .com

BUSINESS MATTERS DIARY

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

From networking breakfasts to invaluable evening courses, make a note of the courses and classes that will help your business flourish 8 JANUARY 2020 STARTING IN BUSINESS When you’re starting a new business, it’s fair to say you need all the advice you can get. In this BANES Council and Cool Ventures collaboration locals will have the chance to get some one-to-one advice from the experts. 6-9pm; Bath and Country Club; www.coolventures.co.uk 8 JANUARY 2020 BATH WOMEN’S BUSINESS LUNCH A gathering for successful female company directors to network and get inspired over a tasty lunch. It’s a part networking, part educational, part uplifting encouragement from your peers. 11.30am-2pm; The Widcombe Suite, James Street West; www.womensbusiness.club 23 JANUARY SMALL STEPS FOR GREAT PR The brand new Small Business Network in Corsham is kicking off the new year with a networking and educational event all about making the most out of your PR. Jessica Morgan, founder and director of Carnsight Communications will give a talk on how small businesses can better communicate their message. 10am-12pm; Digital Mansion, Corsham; www.digitalmansion corsham.co.uk

Adam Radcliffe receives his award

THE PERFECT FIT

Perfect Fit in Keynsham has won an award. The lingerie, bridal, maternity, medical and support, sports, swimwear and nightwear brand nabbed the Superstar Award at the Stars Underlines Best Shop Awards. The brand, owned by Deborah French, beat out eight other ﬁnalists or the title, which was only open to independent shops, to be celebrated for its expertise, knowledge, passion and longevity in a constantly changing market. Deborah collected her award at a ﬂashy ceremony at a de aris in London’s West End in an event attended by business owners from all over the country. www.per ect t.uk.com

TOP OF THE GAME

Adam Radcliﬀe, manager o rest Nicholson’s Bath site has won a Seal of E cellence in the second round o the N B Pride in the Job Awards 2019. He was celebrated for his dedication to building high quality homes at the Bath Riverside site in front of an audience of 550 colleagues and industry peers. The awards, now in their 39th year are organised by leading warranty and insurance provider N B , and are udged by a panel o e pert udges who visit the site of every nominated manager. “To reach this level of the competition means you are at the very top of the housebuilding industry, says Nick unningham, N B regional director. “Adam is without doubt building homes to an exceptional standard and is a worthy winner.” www.crestnic o son.com

BATHWORKS “FINANCIAL LITERACY IN THIS COUNTRY IS VERY POOR AND IT SHOULD BE TAUGHT IN SCHOOLS”

ONE TO WATCH

Barry Newbury The senior financial planner and head of office at Brewin Dolphin de-mystifies investment management Epoch recently joined Brewin Dolphin. How was the transition? The transition to Brewin Dolphin completed on the 9 August after many months of negotiations and due diligence. The founding partners of Epoch felt that we needed to be part of a larger organisation in order to preserve the excellent client proposition we’d developed over nine years – whilst continuing to grow. Brewin olphin is a antastic ﬁt or our clients and for us. The ethos of our new owners matches Epoch’s – clients come ﬁrst. Everything we do is for the betterment of our clients and it struck a chord quite how much Brewin Dolphin wants to do the same thing.

Can you explain what wealth management is, exactly? Wealth management covers a few disciplines but is essentially enhancing someone’s financial position through sound financial planning and the investing of money on their behalf. Brewin Dolphin provides integrated financial planning and investment management services for its clients. That means that any client with any need can come to Brewin olphin and have a financial planner help them make the right decisions for them. If there are funds which need investing, the investment experts in the business take on that responsibility.

What would you say to anyone thinking about investing, but a little scared to start? Finance can be daunting, particularly if you’re unsure of your motivation for investing beyond simply making your money grow. Many people invest without a proper financial plan behind them; something which clarifies what they want out o li e and how they’re going to get there. It’s very hard to invest without a plan. The current political and economic climate is also cause for concern as there’s so little certainty. If you’re thinking about investing, first ask yoursel why you’re wanting to invest – what is it that having more money will allow you to do?

What are some of the biggest mistakes you see people making with their money? The biggest mistake may surprise you – that they don’t know when they’ve made it and can live their best life. Too many people worry that they’ll run out of money and therefore work harder and for longer than they need to, thereby missing out on the best years of their life. By using cutting-edge technology, we can help clients see what their financial future looks like, empowering them to make meaningful decisions with confidence. Along the same lines, how can people get more savvy about their finances? Financial literacy in this country is very poor and it should be taught in schools alongside the core subjects. Without that grounding, it’s understandable why people may feel lost or want to get more savvy. The financial press, mostly in the Sunday paper supplements are a good place to discover more about personal finance. The most important thing though is to get a clearer understanding of what you want your life to look like. Then you can start to make plans. Do you have anything exciting coming up? There’s plenty in the pipeline but becoming the Headline sponsor of the Bath Boules event is the most prominent. We’re really excited to be able to support this brilliant civic initiative and help raise funds for local good causes. For more: www.brewin.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Overcoming the challenges of inheritance tax Local legal expert HELEN STARKIE explains…

magine three identical houses, each worth, perhaps, £900,000, and each occupied by a family of four – a couple and two children. The houses are each owned by the occupying couple jointly. So, why, when one half of each couple dies, having made a Will leaving everything to the other, might the Inheritance Tax (IHT) consequences be different for each household? Mr and Mrs Brown are married. Neither has been married before. They have two children. If Mr Brown were to die and leave all his estate to his wife then, because gifts between spouses are exempt from IHT, there would be no IHT payable when he died. When, later, Mrs Brown dies, leaving everything to the two children, she will have her own personal IHT exemption of £325,000 available to offset against the value of her estate (including what she has inherited from Mr Brown) before tax is payable. As she is leaving her home to her descendants, she will also have a further allowance of £150,000 to utilise. And, as Mr Brown did not use his two allowances when he died (he used his ‘spouse exemption’ allowance instead) Mrs Brown may use those, too, meaning that the whole value of the house is covered, together with £50,000 worth of other assets if she has them. Mr White and Ms Black are not married. Neither has been married before. They, too, have two children between them. If Mr White were to die without leaving a Will then Ms Black would not inherit anything at all, of course, but that is a topic for a different article! If he had made a Will leaving everything to her Ms Black would inherit. BUT there would be no spouse exemption available as the couple were not married. Mr White would have his personal allowance of £325,000 to offset against the value of his estate (including the value of his half share in the house) and Ms Black would be faced with an IHT bill on the rest. On the value of the house alone that would be £50,000. On her death then, provided that she left the home to the children, she would have her own two allowances of £325,000 and £150,000 to offset against the value of her estate but the rest of her estate would be taxable at 40 per cent. These two children will inherit rather less than the Brown children. Mr Jones and Mrs Smith are also unmarried, but each has been married before. Mrs Smith was widowed and Mr Jones divorced when they met. Mrs Smith has two children. Mr Jones has

“THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A ‘STANDARD WILL’ BECAUSE THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A ‘STANDARD FAMILY’” none. In the situation outlined in the first two examples Mrs Smith’s position when Mr Jones died would be the same as Ms Black’s when Mr White died. However, on her own death, if she left the house to her children, she would have her own two allowances to offset against the value of her estate AND, if she had inherited the estate of her late husband, Mr Smith, then she may use his two allowances, too. So, her children’s IHT position is considerably better than that of Ms Black’s. Interestingly, the situation should Mrs Smith die before Mr Jones would be quite different. She could offset her own personal allowance and that of the late Mr Smith against what she leaves to Mr Jones (no additional £150,000 allowances) – but to the extent that those allowances exceed what she is leaving, they are

wasted. They cannot be carried forward when Mr Jones dies. He will then have only his own £325,000 allowance to use. Whilst not all of the difficulties outlined above can be overcome in a differently drafted Will, a number can. And there are so many other examples one could give of how a properly drafted document can improve a family’s ultimate financial situation not only in relation to IHT but also, for example, potential care fees. There is no such thing as a ‘standard Will’ because there is no such thing as a ‘standard family’. Make sure that your Will is tailored to your exact circumstances by a fully qualified and regulated professional – a solicitor.

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 125

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Meet the family lawyer

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

PARTNER AND HEAD OF TEAM, MOGERS DREWETT 01225 750000; www.mogersdrewett.com What do you specialise in? I help clients going through higher-net worth divorces with a primary focus on cases where there are business interests, trusts and complex share save schemes or pensions. I also deal with applications under Schedule 1 of the Children Act. These applications usually arise after unmarried parents separate and one parent wants to make financial claims on behalf of their children. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering divorce?

KATHERINE LAUDER

ROYDS WITHY KING 01225 730100; www.roydswithyking.com What do you specialise in? Advising and helping parents who are no longer in a relationship, and who need to establish arrangements for their children. This often involves advising regarding a range of complex issues and ensuring children are protected from harm. Parents often seek advice regarding where their children will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and which school they will attend. I also specialise in advising grandparents and other extended family members, and representing children through their court appointed Children’s Guardians. I help victims of domestic abuse to protect themselves (and their children), and, where required, assist them to access support services and to obtain urgent protective orders. What is your favourite part of the job? Having the opportunity and privilege of meeting with individuals and listening to their concerns, often at times when they are in extremely distressing and stressful circumstances, and advising them on the best way forward. I love helping individuals to prioritise and protect their children and achieve childcentred outcomes. I also get great satisfaction from assisting victims of domestic abuse, who have bravely taken the step of seeking help.

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

Getting advice early is always important. Early advice can provide reassurance, prevent people from going down the wrong track and hopefully manage expectations reasonably from the outset, all of which aid early and cost effective resolution. It is important for me to help my clients to understand the facts and how the law affects them and there are also some important tax windows which can be utilised in the early stages. If you could introduce one new law what would it be? Reducing the voting age to 16 – younger people are increasingly demonstrating that they have important views and ideas about how to make the future better.

KEELEY LENGTHORN

PARTNER, MCMILLAN WILLIAMS SOLICITORS

THOMAS BOYCE

PARTNER, FAMILY DEPARTMENT, GOUGHS SOLICITORS 01249 444499; www.goughs.co.uk

0203 551 8500; www.mwsolicitors.co.uk What area do you specialise in? Family and child law – domestic abuse, public law care proceedings and matters involving child arrangements, child abduction and the unlawful removal of children. What are the challenges? Cuts in public funding and the introduction of LASPO, which saw significant cuts in public funding for private law applications. What is your favourite part of your job? Seeing a woman escape abuse and come to you for help, then seeing her become empowered when she escapes her perpetrator, or seeing a parent get their child back after an unlawful removal or at the end of care proceedings. What has been your biggest achievement? This year I was shortlisted for the Legal Aid Practitioner Group Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year award. To be shortlisted as the only woman in the whole country was an amazing accolade.

How has family law changed in the last few years? People are increasingly looking to reach an agreement on their financial arrangements outside of the court process. Court proceedings are required in certain circumstances but it is usually always preferable to avoid court if possible. In recent years a variety of different methods of achieving this have been developed, such as mediation, arbitration and private court hearings. There can be significant cost savings for the people involved and it allows the legal advisers to consider flexible arrangements tailored to specific needs. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? In my experience, it is usually always better to focus on looking forward, rather than back. Noone goes into a marriage expecting to divorce but it happens. From a legal perspective, the reasons why very rarely matter and from an emotional perspective it can be damaging to spend time analysing why, particularly when that involves blaming someone. This is one of the reasons why I, like many others, favour a change to law that allows people to obtain a divorce without attributing fault.

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TRACEY SMITH

PARTNER AND HEAD OF FAMILY & MEDIATION TEAM, STONE KING 01225 485700; www.stoneking.co.uk

SARAH JACKSON

PARTNER, BLB SOLICITORS 01225 462871; www.blbsolicitors.co.uk What area do you specialise in? Family law – divorce and financial settlements, from modest assets to lottery winners and millionaires. What are the challenges? No two clients ever present exactly the same facts and the law is always changing, which makes the job a challenge, but never dull. Trying to work out what is a fair outcome can be especially hard where there are children involved and there is not enough money to establish both parents in owned properties. What is your favourite part of the job? I love the meticulous task of drafting financial agreements; condensing complex agreement terms into one concise and unambiguous document can be very satisfying. But probably the most rewarding aspect of my practice is family mediation. It is humbling when a separating couple are able to put their differences aside and work together to reach settlement proposals. What sort of misconceptions do you commonly encounter? That instructing a solicitor puts you on an unalterable course to a court battle. With around 95 per cent of my cases being settled through constructive negotiations, this is simply not the case.

TARA CONNOR-MCLAREN FAMILY SOLICITOR, THRINGS tconnormclaren@thrings.com; www.thrings.com

How does family law fit into a commercial law firm? Separation or divorce often raises questions around property, wills, business structures and succession, even agricultural assets, so we work closely with our specialist teams across the firm. Our clients really appreciate having all their legal requirements met in one place. What is the biggest misconception surrounding family law? People often assume that divorce has to be an

Your team has changed recently? Yes, Mowbray Woodwards have joined forces with Stone King’s private client sector. We share the same values so it’s a perfect fit. This is an exciting time for us all, becoming part of a larger firm is a great benefit to all our clients as we can offer a full range of family law services without compromising the high quality, personal and caring service our clients expect. How will this affect the family law team? I’m delighted to be heading up the now combined team of specialist family lawyers at Stone King, who all have an established reputation in Bath for their legal expertise and their practical and sensitive client service. Our team specialises in all family matters, including divorce and separation, international issues and matters involving children and we have several trained mediators. What’s the first step for someone considering using a family lawyer? We understand that when families face difficulties it can be hard to know where to turn. Simply come and talk to us. We will listen, give practical advice, explain all your options, and support you on the right path for you.

RICHARD SHARP

SENIOR PARTNER, SHARP FAMILY LAW 01225 448955; www.sharpfamilylaw.com What do you specialise in? Helping separating and divorcing clients to protect children, preserve assets, and limit the destruction and cost that too often occurs when relationships break down. What are the misconceptions around what you do? There can be a belief that divorce must be fought in court. After 30 years as a family solicitor, I truly believe every divorce is unique. No one process works for every family, including court litigation. Once I’ve listened to my clients’ concerns, I help them select the right course for their separation, divorce or family issue. The decisions of divorce profoundly affect the future. What was your very first job? In the 1970s I worked as a caretaker’s assistant at the International Anglican School, Jerusalem, Israel. What is your favourite part of the job? Solving client problems – helping a client go from despair to hope, and from fear to security, so they can move forward with their lives. What professional accomplishment has made you proudest? Founding Sharp Family Law, a firm focused on minimising the financial and emotional cost of divorce and supporting clients to secure the best outcome for themselves and their families.

acrimonious and contested battle. However, we work hard to use alternative routes such as collaborative law, voluntary discussions and referring clients to mediation services to avoid court proceedings wherever possible. The majority of our cases do not require costly court intervention, saving time and preserving relationships in many cases. What key bit of advice would you give to somebody considering a divorce? Make sure that any financial agreement is formalised by way of a consent order and sealed by the court alongside the divorce process. Most people come to us unaware that, without this official step, their financial claims remain open – meaning assets could still be vulnerable to an ex-partner after the divorce.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 127

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The ultimate garden retreat

Quality, built-to-order and perfect for glamping – GREENDOWN SHEPHERD HUTS provide enviable luxury in a very cosy environment

raditional shepherd’s huts have always been associated with romantic country living and more recently, with the trend for outdoor garden rooms and alternative holiday accommodation making the perfect base for activity holidays with a focus on the outdoor lifestyle. Greendown Shepherd Huts, launched in 2017, specialises in creating high quality unique shepherd’s huts built to order. Based at Pixash Lane in Keynsham just off the A4, owners Harry Long and Richard Hodges are passionate about craftsmanship, style and attention to detail. “We’re committed to delivering huts built from the best materials that combine comfort and practicality with contemporary style and design,” says Harry, a carpenter by trade. The current project Greendown are working on is creating a 12-foot long, totally off grid hut.

“The interest in creating a totally self contained hut is a response to what our customers and the market are looking for,” explains Richard. “And it’s driven by two motivations. Firstly the increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability and eco-living, and secondly the issue of accessibility; being able to situate the hut in landscapes and environments where there are no facilities, be it a mountainside, beach or just the bottom of a field away from any electric points. “The off grid hut we are developing contains a sink with a tank. Energy comes from solar panels backed up by storage batteries. “Every hut we create is built to the customer’s brief. We’ll discuss what they are looking for from the hut in terms of its use and the features they would like, and then come up with a bespoke design.” With more people holidaying in the UK and taking shorter breaks, a shepherd’s hut is an ideal investment to enable landowners to take advantage of the rapidly increasing demand for mini breaks in all parts of the country. “For landowners big or small, shepherd’s huts are a great way of creating new revenue from their assets. With diversification so economically important to landowners, those looking to branch into the holiday sector can charge £90–£150 a night for a hut, with a payback within two years, often sooner. The cosy nature of a shepherd’s hut and their appeal to young couples not just families ensures they have a

round the year appeal, so they deliver cash flow through winter and not merely the summer season. The ability to transport at short notice also gives greater flexibility and opportunity under current planning regulations, something Greendown can advise on,” Richard says. “They are a great addition to existing campsites and we can also create camping pods. The huts could also be a useful and stylish addition to a wedding venue, the grounds of a country house hotel or as an Airbnb opportunity. Our 20 foot long ‘B&B’ huts are perfect for commercial use.” Greendown Shepherd Huts are committed to delivering a standard of shepherd’s hut that are among the very best nationally. The current build turnaround from ordering stands at four weeks, so a hut can be in situ on a client’s property by early next spring. Please refer to the website for more details.

Greendown

Shepherd Huts Ltd.

Unit 1b, Pixash Lane, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 1TP 01179 869685 info@greendownshepherdhuts.co.uk www.greendownshepherdhuts.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 129

NEW YEAR NEW FINANCES

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Bathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial experts can help you start the year off right

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ADVERTISING FEATURE JOE GRIMES

SENIOR TAX MANAGER, BISHOP FLEMING 01225 486300; www.bishopfleming.co.uk Do you specialise in a specific area? I provide tax advice to owner managed businesses and their shareholders. Understanding both the personal and business aspects allows Bishop Fleming to provide advice tailored to the individual, their family and the business, ensuring compliance obligations are fulfilled whilst adding value by spotting opportunities for efficiencies. What changes to the tax are coming up in 2020? Tax is experiencing a period of uncertainty with the upcoming election. However, a number of changes have already been announced and are expected to come into law from April 2020, these include: • Capital Gains Tax on residential property will be due within 30 days rather than on year-end tax returns. Reliefs on the disposal of properties that have been let will also be significantly restricted. • A substantial drop in taxable employment benefit on zero emission cars. What’s the one bit of advice you would give to someone? Tax is often viewed as something to consider following the end of a year. My advice to people would be to be proactive, rather than reactive when it comes to tax. Planning steps can be taken to improve tax positions if time is given to consider the year ahead rather than the year just finished. Examples include: • Considering making additional pension contributions. What would be the ‘real’ cost taking into account all available reliefs. • Businesses reviewing whether they are entitled to Research & Development Tax Credits. • Businesses planning the timing of their capital expenditure to maximise tax reliefs.

ED MCKENZIE

MCKENZIE & CO FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS 01225 696944; www.mckenzieandco.co.uk What advice would you give to somebody considering retirement? Sit down with an adviser and produce a cash flow plan looking at all the options and the risks going forward to give you a good picture of what to expect. If clients start the year concerned and worried about their finances, what advice would you give? Seek financial advice with their adviser or, if you don’t have one, seek out an adviser to discuss their worries. I have always said that the number one objective of an adviser is to provide peace of mind to their clients in times of worry and concern. What should be your clients priorities at the start of the year? Ensure you know your tax allowances for the year and you have maximised the opportunities, don’t leave it to the last minute at the end of March. What are the best investments you could advise your clients to make? Diverse ones! When there is so much uncertainty in the media and politics, ensuring you have a diverse portfolio of global assets can reduce your risk without reducing your potential for return. Cash returns are so low that keeping money in cash should only ever be a short term solution. What is the most frequent problem you encounter this time of year? Can I retire yet?! Many of our enquiries are around how and when they can either retire or move to more part time working. We can provide cash flow planning to review how this could be possible for clients.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE TOM ANNEAR

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, BREWIN DOLPHIN 01225 487772; www.brewin.co.uk/bath What’s the biggest bit of advice you would give at the start of the calendar year? To look at things differently in 2020. Rather than deciding how much you can afford to save or invest, decide what you want your life to look like when you’re not doing what you’re doing now. So many clients are only ever advised on the here and now that they forget that money is an enabler, not an end in itself. Attaining your dream life should be your goal, whilst the composition and performance of your portfolio should be the concern of your financial professional. There’s no point in being the richest person in the graveyard, so work out how much your dream life costs and then try and work back from there. A cash flow model can help show you what your “magic number” is and, critically, when that magic number could become a reality. What advice would you give to somebody considering retirement? To get a handle on how they will fund their retirement. Most people believe that a pension is the best way to fund their retirement, but with current rules as they are, it might be worth considering living off other investments and leaving the pensions untouched for longer. A financial planner can help you decide how best to enjoy the results of your hard work. What is the most frequent problem you encounter this time of year? We actually find that our clients look forward to this time of year. Spending time with – and money on – loved ones is one of the best things we can show clients they can afford to do.

DAN SMITH

SOUTH WEST BUSINESS FINANCE (SWBF) 01225 800849 www.swbf.co.uk What’s the one biggest bit of advice you would give at the start of the calendar year? As business owners are often busy running their businesses I would suggest they take some time to reflect on whether they have the right structure or funding to achieve their goals for the next 12 months. Also seek advice on where to turn for support for your business; who are your trusted partners and advisors and are you getting everything you need from these relationships. If clients start the year concerned and worried about their finances, what advice would you give? Speak to an expert and build a relationship with someone who you can trust to talk to about your finances. We can sit down with you, provide advice about your funding structures and help you navigate the plethora of funding options in the market that you might not be aware of. There are over 200 alternative lenders in the market who are ready and willing to support businesses, often where mainstream banks have closed doors to them. As a Commercial Finance Broker, we are ideally placed to guide you through the finance market, we know the lenders available, their strengths and weaknesses and how they want proposals presented to ensure a swift and competitive response. What should be your clients’ priorities at the start of the year? Decide what is important for you in sourcing finance; whether it be rate, term, flexibility, requirements to give security, or having a relationship with the lender. As a broker we are well placed to review your existing finance and suggest alternative providers or structures.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE GREG HARRIS

CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER, UNIVIDUAL 01225 427 474; greg@unividual.co.uk;

unividual.co.uk What’s the one biggest bit of advice you would give at the start of the calendar year? The new year is always seen as an opportunity to put in place good habits. When it comes to good money habits, begin by reviewing what you already have in place so you can see whether your existing financial products still offer value-for-money, such as your insurance products, mortgages etc. Then start identifying some short and longer term goals. Your objectives should centre around protecting your finances from risks, growing your wealth to achieve your goals, retirement and what happens to your estate when you pass. Assess whether your goals are achievable and finally put a strategy in place to achieve them. If you reach a point when you haven’t got the time or knowledge to do this yourself, that is when you should seek professional advice from a Chartered Financial Planner. What advice would you give to somebody considering retirement? There are a great number of options for anyone thinking of retiring and this flexibility makes things complicated to understand. People should seek financial advice, preferably from a firm with the Pension Transfer Gold standard. Make sure you take the time to find a financial planner who you get on well with and trust, someone who can give you the education and tools to make the right decisions for yourself because retirement can now span 30 plus years. If clients start the year concerned and worried about their finances, what advice would you give? You are not alone. We all worry about money, alongside our health it is one of the most important things to us. Whether you are a first time buyer, nearing retirement or have come in to money and don’t know what to do with it you should seek financial advice. Unividual caters to all

wealth structures, doesn’t stereotype people and there is always someone on the other end of the phone ready to listen. Together we can work through your worries and give you the tools you need to make the right decisions on your own finances.

TOM DE BURGH WILLIAMS

CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNER, CHARLES STANLEY 01225 878999; www.charles-stanley.co.uk What’s the one biggest bit of advice you would give at the start of the calendar year? The New Year is a good time to ‘health check’ your overall financial plans to review whether you are still on track to meet your objectives. Have you used all the available tax allowances in this tax year, such as your annual Individual Savings Accounts (ISA) allowance and Capital Tax Gains allowance? One area we are seeing more people coming to us for help with is inheritance tax planning, and the sooner you start, the more options are available to minimise the amount of inheritance tax that might be due. There’s no time like the present. If clients start the year concerned and worried about their finances, what advice would you give? Cash-flow planning will allow you to predict the position of your income, assets and expenditure at any given time in the future. It can also factor in unexpected events: the death of a loved one, divorce or critical illness, ensuring you’ll still be financially comfortable even if the worst does happen. It often sits at the very heart of your financial planning strategy, allowing you to set goals and plan towards them. Therefore, if you have concerns, our advice would be to ask your financial planner to show you the progress of your cash-flow plan and to create scenarios that would help to alleviate your concerns. What advice would you give to somebody considering retirement? Avoid common retirement planning traps and get help in making crucial decisions such as whether it’s better to buy an annuity and how to get the best deal, or if it’s better to draw money from your pension without buying an annuity to secure your future income. Traditionally retirement income has come from a pension, but this may only be part of a number of sources of income. It’s important to review any income strategy for the most tax-efficient route for both your individual circumstances and the longer-term position of your estate.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE CALVIN HEALY,

DIRECTOR, RICHARDSON SWIFT 01225 325580; www.richardsonswift.co.uk What changes to the tax and investment systems are coming up in 2020? There are some big changes ahead for residential property, subject to the new government allowing them through of course! Currently, the last 18-months of owning your main home is exempt from Capital Gains Tax (CGT) if you meet certain criteria. After 5 April 2020 this qualifying period is set to halve to nine months. In a slow-moving property market, the impact of this change could be significant. In addition, the CGT reporting regime for residential property sales is speeding up. Currently, if you sell a chargeable property in any given tax year, you don’t have to disclose and pay any CGT until 31 January after the tax year end. However, where CGT is due from 6 April 2020, it will need to be declared and paid within 30 days of completion. Lastly, the qualifying criteria for lettings relief is being tightened. From 6 April 2020, this relief is set to only apply where an owner is in shared occupation with their lodger/s. The result is that lettings relief will disappear for most homeowner landlords who are eligible for it now.

What advice would you give to somebody considering retirement? The main advice is to get sound advice before you do it! Firstly, you should ask your accountant to produce a ‘personal balance sheet’, which will give you a snapshot of what your current liabilities and assets are. Once your position is clear, you can then start putting the appropriate planning in place to ensure you’re in the best shape financially ahead of retirement. It may also be sensible to look at your wider position in terms of Inheritance Tax (IHT) and Capital Gains Tax. What should your clients’ priorities be at the start of the year? We always advise our clients to talk to us about maximising allowances and reliefs for the tax year ahead. This involves checking if they’ve got any unused tax allowances for the year or losses brought forward, as well as maximising pension contributions and making use of IHT allowances, where appropriate. If you’re looking to sell a second residential property and take advantage of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) reliefs, or you will have CGT due on a sale from 6 April 2020, then you’ll need to plan for the changes (mentioned above) in earnest!

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ADVERTISING FEATURE DARREN PEARCE CHASE DE VERE

0345 609 2002; www.chasedevere.co.uk Why is the perception of Bath as a financial centre lower than Bristol? Bristol has many large and longestablished financial businesses. In contrast, Bath has a high proportion of smaller and newer companies including most of the financial advice firms. Chase de Vere is an exception. We celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2019 and have been in Bath since 1983. What are the advantages of dealing with a more established business? Chase de Vere is a strong and secure company which has been providing independent financial advice to people and businesses in Bath for many years. Our clients can have the comfort of knowing that we are likely to be around today, tomorrow and for many years to come. This is really important if they have long-term financial goals. What type of advice do you most often provide to your local clients?

Many of our clients want help with planning ahead for their retirement, advice on the best ways for them to take pension benefits, how to make sure they have a sustainable income in retirement or how they can make financial provisions for their children and grandchildren. What financial concerns do your clients have? Their biggest concerns relate to the uncertainty in the world. We still don’t know how Brexit will play out, there are likely to be ongoing trade issues between the US and China, tensions in the Middle East and a risk of a global economic downturn. However, uncertainty is nothing new. Our focus is on ensuring our clients’ finances and investments are positioned so that they can achieve their goals whatever the future holds. And what about investments, are there any particular trends? More clients are interested in ethical and sustainable investments. We are experts in this area. We run ethical investment portfolios and are members of the UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association (UKSIF).

FAMILY & CHILDREN • PROPERTY & HOME • MONEY & FINANCE • CRIME & EXTRADITION HEALTH & INJURY • CIVIL LITIGATION • COMPANY & COMMERCIAL • WILLS & PROBATE 28 Southgate Street, Bath BA1 1TP 01225 437 050 | enquiries@mwsolicitors.co.uk | www.mwsolicitors.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 137

OFFICIAL AWARDS REVIEW

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

PROPER JOB The second Bath Property Awards were a resounding success; and in case you missed it (how? why??) we’ve put together this special Bath Property Awards review

round midday on Friday 15 November, 300 of Bath’s finest and seemingly noisiest property people descended on Apex City of Bath Hotel to talk and engage and discuss and discourse, opine, negotiate, gossip – all aided by a dapper disputation of lawyers. These were the second Bath Property Awards. When so many contribute, so many benefit. And when so many come together in one place to celebrate excellence, then good things can happen. Awards were won, of course. Wonderful ones. Aaannnddd… intros happened, acquaintances made, ob offers offered, deals discussed, partnerships sounded out.

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In short, business happened. It was thrilling to see the array of participants, from the coolest of the city’s indies to the largest of the sector’s corporates; from local to regional to national. The sector was celebrated, venerated. This was the chance to say that Bath property matters: commercially, practically, aesthetically. We thank all who backed these Awards, enabling this occasion to happen and for value to be created for all. e hope you got beneﬁt rom the event and its marketing, and of course have plans for it to have a yet bigger impact on the sector in 2020. In the following pages you will see examples of just some of the coverage and proﬁle received through your support of the Awards. So next time..? It’ll be a Friday, in November 2020. Please join us once again for the splendid hubbub of business, and singular veneration of this incredible sector.

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

CATEGORY WINNERS The judges faced some incredibly hard decisions, but after much debate, here are their choices . . . Photos by Adam Carter

COMMERCIAL AGENT Sponsored by

COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGNER Sponsored by

WINNER:

CARTER JONAS

WINNER:

ETONS OF BATH

ARCHITECT Sponsored by

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by

CONSULTANCY

WINNER:

NASH PARTNERSHIP

WINNER:

KINGSTON FARM BRADFORD, ASHFORD HOMES

WINNER:

GREENGAUGE BUILDING ENERGY CONSULTANTS www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 141

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS

CONTRACTOR