Bath Life – Issue 484

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ISSUE 484 / 2 – 15 DECEMBER 2022 / £3 THE GLITZ AND GLAMOUR OF THE BATH PROPERTY AWARDS SPIRITUALITY STEP INTO CHRISTMAS WINTER STYLE FOR MEN WINTER WONDERLAND THE BEST OF BATH’S SNOWY SCENES IN THE SPOTLIGHT BATH’S PANTO PLAYERS TALK YULETIDE PLUS DEISIE WELLNESS / MARVIN MUONEKÉ / THE BATH TOWNHOUSE ROOT CAUSE IN PRAISE OF THE PARSNIP WE’RE MAKING A LIST AND IT’S DEFINITELY FULL OF INDIE-CENTRIC CHRISTMAS CHEER GROUND CONTROL FABULOUS FLOORING IDEAS THE BEST BATH COCKTAILS TO GET US SEASONALLY SHAKEN AND STIRRED
Excellent - 4.9* out of 5 CHRISTMASOFFER We have teamed up with two of Bath’s very own fabulous artisan establishments to bring you a promotion that celebrates everything coffee & chai. Scan the QR code for more information and Ts&Cs HOME APPLIANCES AT COMPETITIVE PRICES WITH EXCELLENT SERVICE 01225 311811 | sales@coopershomeappliances.com | www.coopershomeappliances.com Coopers Home Appliances, 13/15 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BN

What were your 2021 resolutions for 2022?

ll g st ganis ganis ganis g t t gist

My thinking was if I’m more organised I’ll be slimmer / smarter/ healthier / taller / i g t t gist ns t n t it t t as

I AM more organised at work, so that’s a positive, but the n n t is t ing ls n a ls a n t g tting an a li a n t ta ing brisk walks around the block at l n ti n n it s to remembering birthdays and anniversaries, it verges on human rights abuse apparently at how bad I am (my family can it a ati

So I have concocted a near-brilliant plan to ensure I don’t repeat my ‘belated best is s a i at ist as I’ve taken my good work

organisational skills and used them to create a Yuletide gift g i n n t st an l gi t guide – this one is a gorgeously extensive, eclectic, and indiecentric seven pager starting over n ag n lit all a no excuse to be late with presents t is ist as n n n it t st in as n that little extra nudge to get you over the Yuletide line, look out a t t n t iss

Also to help you get in the holiday mood we have a festive cocktail round-up featuring all your favourite local bars over on page 68; there’s a catch-up it t is a s at al Bath’s panto crew on page 48; a very special chocolate cake recipe from Mary Berry on page 63 to coincide to her visit to Bath Pavilion on 6 December ganis ing an Booksellers; and a whole array of Christmassy things to do in our bumper, up-to the-minute at s n ag n

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SARAH MOOLLA © LOUIS SMITH; WWW.STUDIOWHISK.CO.UK
EDITOR’S LETTER
ABOVE: Get festive decking (page 19); BELOW: Verity Genco talks parsnips (page 64) © STYLED BY HOUSE OF HACKNEY; WWW.HOUSEOFHACKNEY.COM
We’re
creative
event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff and Exeter. 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 91 58 68 CHRISTMAS SEASON 19 THE ULTIMATE BATH GIFT GUIDE Decorations, jewellery, food and drink, fashion, kids, something for the hard-to-buy-for and our top picks from Bath Christmas Market THE ARTS 41 ARTS INTRO Magical Christmas illuminations at Stourhead 42 WHAT’S ON Theatre, music, comedy, art and more 48 CULTURE CLUB Panto Christmas special 52 THE LINLEYS Music and scandal in Georgian Bath 55 BOOKS Pulse-raising reads FOOD & DRINK 58 RESTAURANT REVIEW Elegant style at The Bath Townhouse 63 RECIPES Mary Berry’s ultimate chocoholic dessert 64 FOOD & DRINK Updates from the tastiest newsfeed in town 68 COCKTAILS Festive season tipples SHOPPING 76 MEN’S FASHION A stylish look for every occasion BUSINESS 79 BATHWORKS Local business news, views, and interviews 83 BIZ Q&A Holistic health with wellness coach Nicky Lewis 85 AWARDS Q&A 12 Trim Street’s winning beginnings PROPERTY 91 BATH PROPERTY AWARDS All the winners and action 106 FLOORING Doing the home renovation groundwork 110 SHOWCASE An idyllic family home in Lansdown DEPARTMENTS 9 SPOTLIGHT Festive fun 11 INSTAS We’re dreaming of a white Christmas... 39 FLATLINE Flats is flitting 114 BATH LIVES UK number one lindy hopper, Graeme Puckett Issue 484 / 2–15 December 2022 COVER Winter cocktail selection from Sub 13; www.sub13.net 6 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@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, Nick Hems, John Mather, Tony Scotland, Derryn Vranch and Matilda Walton Group commercial manager Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash. co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk / Gemma Bourne gemma.bourne@mediaclash. co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.
a Bath-based publisher,
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Heritage CHRISTMAS PAST

Christmas magic has arrived at the Roman Baths. Throughout the festive season, the attraction will host a fun range of family activities and seasonal foodie treats.

The pop-up bar back is back, where you can warm up with a hot chocolate or a mulled wine in the atmospheric surrounds of the Great Bath. On 10 and 11 December, there’ll even be the chance to celebrate Christmas Roman style at the Seasonal Saturnalia, an ancient festival for the agricultural god Saturn. The festival always takes place near the Winter Solstice and features all the trappings of Christmas – feasting, gifts and beautiful decorations. The Baths team are honouring the tradition with special family decoration making workshops, where you can craft your own Roman-inspired decoration to take home. For more: www.romanbaths.co.uk

Arts and Crafts

THE HOLLY AND THE IVY

Make a Christmas wreath with the Bath Carnival team this December. The two-hour workshops at The Grapes on Westgate Street are back by popular demand. The workshops are for all abilities, where participants work with an awardinning fl al t t an a ang a ti l fresh and dried foliage set on a sustainable moss base to craft a wreath that’ll last throughout the Christmas period. All the proceeds go towards funding the next carnival, its 10th anniversary.

The workshops are for adults, but children over 12 may attend if accompanied. There are a range of session times available in December – and guests can either purchase drinks from the pub or pre-order a vegan-friendly mince pie and glass of bubbly for their arrival.

Tickets are available through the Eventbrite website – just search for Bath Carnival.

For more: www.eventbrite.co.uk

Bath Christmas Market SUPER MARKET!

The Bath Christmas Market is well under way, sprinkling festive magic all t it its t anni sa a it t an stalls ing exciting and unique festive gifts, food and drink, it’s an international Christmas shopping destination – and locals can’t get enough either. The market is giving Bath residents a bit of extra love, with discounts available Monday-Friday for all is a l s an n all t tails a t i t a s a ing at n t at ist as a t sit

“So many people came to our special residents’ preview evening which was a huge success,” says Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council. “It was fantastic after two years of not being able to have the full Christmas Market to see the city positively buzzing with festive cheer. It’s great t t stall l s an l al tail s ill n t t in as t a t at t is la an l nt as g t t a illiant sta t

For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 9
The Roman Baths have turned festive Local Discovery Card holders can access discounts at the Bath Christmas Market Make a wreath the environmentally-friendly way with Bath Carnival
@ellisreed @rhianwirtz @therollinson
EFFECT @tobypentreath.photography @travelerduygu @brilliantbath @salsbathlife @mrbenreed @clairethatcher SPOTLIGHT Dreaming of a white Christmas… www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11
SNOWBALL
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Indoor Outdoor pre-lit pine tree, prices starts at £475, www.coxandcox.co.uk AT THIS PRESENT MOMENT Use our lovingly and locally sourced shopping edit to find the perfect gift for everyone on your nice list

www.brambleandvelvet.co.uk

12 partridge gold Christmas crackers, £19.95, www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

Christmas cards, £3 each or £12 for 5, www.jasondorleybrown.com

Personalised engraved mini bauble, £25, www.bathaquaglass.com

HIT THE DECS

Fab festive decorations

Christmas angel large matches by Archivist, £8, www.juliadavey.com

Noma string LED lights, prices start at £12.99, www.francisdiy.com

Wooden nutcracker ornament, £24.99, www. whitehallgardencentre.co.uk

Light up Christmas wreath by Lightstyle London, £67, www.rossitersofbath.com

White metal stars, from £17.50, www.coxandcox.co.uk

Wonderful Widcombe wrapping paper, £2.50 a sheet, www. flamingobath.co.uk

Pot grown Nordman fir, £49, www.theurbangarden.org.uk

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18ct rose gold rainbow sapphire ring, £2,850, www.mallory-jewellers.com

Diamond star set necklace in 9kt gold, £225, www.honeywillow.com

Art Deco inspired leather earrings by Throwing Shapes Bling, £16, available through Etsy, www.etsy.com

Matte blue steel bracelet £39.95, www.thesilvershopofbath.co.uk

Textured recycled silver ring with blue sapphire, £240, www.christinaoswin.co.uk

Mistletoe necklace 8ct white gold, 0.52ct diamonds, £1,365, www.nicholaswylde.com

9ct yellow gold emerald diamond drop earrings, £950, Orton Jewellery, www.ortonjewellery.co.uk

SHINE BRIGHT

Jewellery handmade with love

Edwardian style sapphire & diamond cluster in 18ct gold, £3,495, www.holtsjewellery.co.uk

18ct white gold tanzanite and diamond earrings, £3,450, www.mallory-jewellers.com

Volcanic silver and blue topaz ring, prices start at £175, www.jodycory.co.uk

Bee necklace by Alex Monroe, £126, www.jodycory.co.uk

Sea horse brooch, £165, www.icarusjewellery.com

Handmade polymer clay earrings in red and gold, £12, Instagram @janikzehra

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
I I

Festive scotchie box, £17, www.gooddaycoffee.co.uk

Fratelli

Hojicha galette bretonne buttery French biscuits, £8, www.sugarcanestudio.co.uk

Paxton’s cave aged cheddar “XO” PDO, £8.75 per 250g, www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk

Landrace sourdough stollen, £17.50, www.landracebakery.com

FESTIVE

The Banquet Collection, £150, www.charlottebrunswick.co.uk

Six can gift set, £25, www.electricbearbrewing.com

P-U-R Beaujolais-Villages, £22, www.kingsmeadstbottleco.uk

Spiced

Tanzania Tea Collection, £7.95 per tube, www.kaskazi.shop The

Taste of Bath gift cards, available from £10, www.taste-of.co.uk

Tracklements Festive Four, £14.15, stockists www.goodnessgrazers. co.uk and online at www.tracklements.co.uk

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FEAST
Locally sourced treats
apricot and cranberry chutney, £5, www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk
Sicilia handwrapped organic caramel panettone, £33.99, Instagram @chandosdeli.bath
Wolf’s Own Table red 5 ltr bag in box £65.99 per 5 ltrs, equivalent £9.99 a bottle,
www.wolfwine.co.uk

Indian red floral hanging elephant, £4.50, www.bollywoodchristmas.co.uk

Lemongrass & cedarwood soothing hand lotion, £16, www.findubiety.com

Mental Health Miniatures, £15.50, www.discoveryjournal.co.uk

Pablo the Peacock handmade felt hanging decoration, £12.25, www.feltsogood.co.uk

BSC Fangio leather holdall, £185, www.britishshoecompany.co.uk

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET

It’s back and better than ever

Handmade earrings by House of Leopards, £13.50, available via Etsy www.etsy.com

Millie Pouch Pack with eye mask, £19, www.lucasloves.co.uk

Handmade leather purse made by Jess Grey Leather, £15, available via Etsy www.etsy.com

Fruits of the Forage quince preserve, £4.25, www.fruitsoftheforage.co.uk

Handmade rainbow and clouds baby mobile, £68, www.tiliankids.com

Masala Chai Infusion, £19.85, www.hennyandjoes.co.uk

Royal Stewart tartan lambswool blanket, £135, www.thenaturalblanket.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
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Pearl dress, £295, www.pearllowe.co.uk

Nubuk

www.oska.com

Sequin

www.luellafashion.com

Cutler and Gross 9290 glasses in Tribeca teal, £395, www.cutlerandgross.com

SNOW BELLE

Fashion forward gifts

£317, www.dressingroombath.com

Marjolaine

Valley

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
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Handpainted silk mungha shawl by Carole Waller, £195, www.carolewaller.co.uk Wood fingerless mittens by Seasalt, £25, www.spiritfashion.co.uk leather bag by OSKA, £159, Taion long military crew neck coat in dark orange, £185, www.foundbath.co.uk skirt in champagne from Sassy Boo, £79, Isabel Marant Étoile Milton pullover, £395, www.squarebath.uk silk and lace short slip, Campo chrome free leather trainers in black and white by VEJA, £130, www.graceandmabel.co.uk

Limited edition Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana fridge, £5,549, www.coopershomeappliances.com

Provencal bombe white chest of drawers, £785, www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Coral Dreams cusion, from £28, www.emmaroseartworks.com

Wooden bowl handcrafted in elm made by Nicholas Friend of Orno Studio Shop, £25, available through Etsy, www.etsy.com

Gershwing ‘Parakeet’ shower curtain, £50, www.divinesavages.com

Newgate Echo Number Three wall clock, £55, stockists www.rossitersofbath.com

HO-HO-HOME Interiors inspiration

Neve hurricane vase, £110, www.neptune.com

Pentlow footstool in mulberry pompadour and floral velvet spice, £871, www.sofasandstuff.com

Scallop wall light in antiqued brass, £125.36, www.jim-lawrence.co.uk

Large round gold foil mirror, £320, www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

Celia vase in dark green, £49, www.woodhouseandlawstore.co.uk

Beach Clean pebble table by Liga, £175, www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

CHRISTMAS
GUIDE
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SUPER STARS

Ideas for the tricky to buy for

Montblanc Extreme 3.0 card holder £140 from Mallory, www.mallory-jewellers.com

Red Star Bath City FC t-shirt, £18, www.bathcityfcshop.com

Paintings of Bath 2023 wall calendar by Peter Brown, £17.50 www.peterbrownneac.com

POP! Vinyl: Marvel Spider-Man, £24.99, Instagram @bathcomics

2ways-2wear backpack and tote by Pasman, £515, www.uberview.co.uk

Roberts Limited Edition ‘Amy’ iStream radio, £249.99, www.mossofbath.co.uk

Penguin microwaveable snuggable hottie, £11, www.rossitersofbath.com

The Positive Planner Doodle Diary, £22, www.thepositiveplanners.com

PLAY THINGS Gifts for younger ones

Exit: Advent Calendar – Hunt for the Golden Book game, £28, www.thirstymeeples.co.uk

Fred the Bear knitted toy, £12, www.juliadavey.com

Ribbon & Party check classic kids’ pyjamas, £34, www.sleepydoe.com

Hand-made wooden car, £12, www.tiliankids.com

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 30 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
THE FINEST IN LINGERIE,BEACH & NIGHTWEAR E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com | 7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU | T: 01225 330563 3 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, BA2 4AX • 01225 463693 info@icarusjewellery.com icarusjewellery Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm. Sunday 10am-5pm.
ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS | BESPOKE JEWELLERY DESIGNER COLLECTIONS | REPAIRS AND REMODELLING 9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LY 01225 460072 | jody@jodycory.co.uk | www.jodycory.co.uk GIFT IDEAS THIS CHRISTMAS
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UNFORGETTABLE CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCES

There is no better gift than experience

AFTERNOON TEA AT THE BATH PRIORY

Treat a loved one to experience a great British tradition. Take things slowly and wonder aimlessly around our award-winning gardens before sitting down to a full afternoon tea including a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, delicious homemade cakes and of course warm scones served with clotted cream and homemade preserve. A vast selection of teas and coffees are available to accompany these treats and perhaps you’ll include a glass of Champagne for that extra bit of indulgence.

To explore our full range of gift vouchers, visit: www.thebathpriory.co.uk/gift-vouchers

GIVE THE GIFT OF A CANDLE WORKSHOP

Bring along a loved one, or gift a candle pouring workshop this Christmas. We provide a place where friends can gather, connect and create. Our candle pouring workshops offer an opportunity to create lasting memories and a candle that is unique to you.

Come celebrate this festive season with us, with our new exclusive fragrances and complimentary mulled punch with evening pouring sessions throughout December.

Gift vouchers are available in-store

For more: 01225 984826

Visit at: 2 New Bond Street Buildings, Bath, BA1 1BL

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PP
£45

INTERIOR DESIGN GIFT VOUCHER

A voucher to give as a present to an interior design enthusiast to learn how to think like an interior designer. Buy at a value to suit your budget.

WORKSHOPS AND ONLINE COURSES

Interior Colour Workshop in Bath (max 4 people) £95.00 1-1 Colour Workshop £185.00

4 self-paced interior design courses for styling your home. Purchase individually for £29.00 each or as a bundle at £106.00 1. Discover your interior style 2. How to create a colour scheme for your home 3. How to choose material and textures for your home 4. How to make an inspiring interior mood board Find out more from our website www.lolaswift.co.uk

THE CHEF’S TABLE

Robun’s Chef's Table offers a seven-course Japanese tasting menu for those looking for a truly special and exclusive experience.

Seating between 6 and 8 guests, the ornate marble table boasts a fireside view of the open kitchen. Robun’s head chef will introduce each course, with sake and wine pairing menus also available.

The Chef’s Table offers the most immersive of ways to experience Robun’s unique celebration of authentic Japanese food and drink. Gift vouchers are available too, purchasable through Robun’s online store.

www.robun.co.uk | 01225 614 424 | info@robun.co.uk

Robun, 4, Princes Buildings, George St, Bath, BA1 2ED

PASTA MAKING EXPERIENCE

Buy your loved one the gift of a new skill this Christmas with a voucher for the Pasta Laboratory! Whether you know a passionate foodie or keen novice, we welcome people of all abilities to try their hand at fresh pasta creation in a relaxed but informative atmosphere. We offer vouchers for the following experiences:

Pasta Making Experience: This class will cover the art of making fresh pasta with Federico and his crew. You will learn how to make Tagliatelle and Tagliolini, with a teaser of how to fold fresh-filled Tortelli.

FROM £50

‘Cook Your Creations’: This experience follows our standard Pasta Making process with you cooking your own creations at the Laboratory accompanied by a selection of our homemade sauces. More information about vouchers, experiences and our events can be found at www.pastalaboratory.co.uk

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT, THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM

There’s magic around every corner on Westonbirt’s illuminated trail. This year they invite you to go behind the scenes of Enchanted Christmas to witness the wonder, hilarity and general commotion that comes with the playful elves creating Westonbirt’s spectacular illuminated trail.

Set out on the trail and discover a magical world of breath-taking light spectacles and interactive displays amongst the magnificent trees of Westonbirt Arboretum.

25 Nov – 21 Dec, open on selected evenings, 4.00pm - 9.30pm. Advanced booking essential.

For full details about this event and to book tickets see www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt/enchanted-christmas

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LET US ENTERTAIN YOU THIS CHRISTMAS WITH A BATH BOX OFFICE GIFT VOUCHER

Bath Box Office is the ultimate destination for tickets to festivals and events across the city. It sells tickets for The Forum, Bath Abbey, The Bath Festival, Chapel Arts Centre, Krowd Keepers Magic Show, Bath Bachfest and many more. Whether it’s music, film, comedy, or theatre, give the gift of choice, and an experience to look forward to. www.bathboxoffice.org.uk

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTHY SKIN

We offer a range of treatments to help you look and feel the best version of you. Treatments from Wrinkle Relaxing to Profhilo, HydraFacial™ to Dermal Fillers, and Obagi medical skincare to regenerative skin treatments.

Vouchers and e-vouchers are available in custom amounts. Visit www.doctorlucy.co.uk for details.

"Healthy skin is a sign of aging well" - Dr Lucy

GIVE THE GIFT OF SPA

Spa Vouchers make a great gift for friends, family or colleagues. From £38, a ‘Thermae Welcome’ gives full use of the indoor Minerva Bath, the multi-sensory Wellness Suite and the open-air rooftop pool. As a special treat, a spa package lets you enjoy Bath’s natural thermal waters and a choice of lovely spa treatments.

Find out more and buy your spa vouchers online at www.thermaebathspa.com or call 01225 33 1234

FROM £38

GIVE THE GIFT OF CREATIVITY THIS CHRISTMAS

Marmalade House run award-winning courses on How to Paint Furniture to Professional Standards, Colour and Interior Design for the Home, and are very pleased to be launching a brand new Advanced Techniques in Furniture Painting course in 2023. This will give painters the opportunity to learn marbling, rust techniques, faded grandeur for beautifully aged pieces, and how to bespoke work with new finishes. For those who would like to refresh their knowledge, they are also running half day refresher courses for anyone who has undertaken a full day course. All courses take place in their bespoke studios in Kelston, with all day parking and their famous farmhouse lunches. Gift Vouchers are available for all courses, and are valid for six months.

FROM PP £155

Visit www.themarmaladehouse.co.uk or call 01225 445855 for more information or to purchase.

For more information about these experiences and their terms and conditions, please visit the company’s website.

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

“This is much a column as a plea for assistance”

Shooting the breeze

From cocktails to floorboards, Flats is in a flit-atious mood

If you don’t mind, I might bounce around a bit this week. I might flit s t t s t it no obvious literary segues. It’s st n t s flitt a s That little sparrow outside your kitchen window – just imagine it with a big bald head and a XXL hoodie on and you’ll get flitt i

Flooring (page 106). It’s causing me grief. In our beloved Georgian house we were lucky n g t n a ti all iginal fl a in la t in better nick than others, but none were na st t t at it n up costing more to bring them ‘back to life’ than it would have cost to cover them in new gear. Originally, of course, I saw this as a racket, but I was wrong; it just took a load of

work to get them sanded back to a lovely and uniform level. Seven goings over, the sitting room took. And these rough-handed sanding lads don’t work for nowt.

sit at l l fl a s bought some lovely rugs in a clearance sale in Devon. These rugs, though, are about as thin as the Rizlas we tried and failed as young men to roll into something that might impress a passing girl. This means that if you are in our basement (it’s a spare room come occasional Airbnb) then you would be forgiven that the only thing you couldn’t hear was Sir David Attenborough quietly whispering at the thousands of wildebeest funnelling through from the street, presumably following the seasonal rains en route to the plains of the Serengeti. I’ve googled this eight thousand times now, and apart from ‘build a false ceiling downstairs’ (not possible) I’ve come up with

nothing. Should I give up? Should I carpet the lot and be done with it? Please help. Please, please help.

Coppa (page 58) – the new place in town. Been once. Liked it. Felt nice, tasty grub, and two people recognised me as someone else. So it seems a good place to take anyone whose feet you think might need reattaching to terra a n n it t g t as in i s l Panto (page 48). I love it. My ex-wife and I go every Christmas Eve and it’s one tradition against which the children have yet to rail (we take the kids with us, obviously. Otherwise that would be progressive to the point of being weird). I mean, as soon as one of their mates invites them for Chrissy Eve drinks –with boys – at their place, we’ll be deleted in a millisecond, but for now it’s lovely. There was one relatively poor year, actually. I don’t want to be mean to the folks who tried their best, so I won’t say what year exactly (I also conveniently cannot remember), but it’s safe to say that two years like that and we’d have been t ist l ti n s n a in you, and last year’s was fab again. Christmas panto in Bath is probably half an hour too long, in truth, but the inappropriate gags and consistency of performance of the icon that is Jon Monie more than make up for the numb bums we all have by the end. Can’t wait.

Christmas cocktails (page 68). I sometimes have a G&T, and that’s about it. This year I’d li t ta an int t n a l of cocktails (we’ll leave the baby with the dog), so isn’t it just a Christmassy dream that inside this very magazine lies all the guidance a wannabe smooth operator might need. Pint of milled wine for me please, landlord. Just the festive job.

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

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 39
WWW.BETTYBHANDARIBRANDPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE

LEADING LIGHTS

We’re pretty spoilt for festive light displays this part of the country –Bath’s own Christmas lights are astounding; Longleat’s Festival of Light is always an imaginative treat; the American Museum’s Enchanted Garden Of Light is a delight, as is the magical forest of Westonbirt.

There is also the truly innovative and memorable Christmas at Stourhead. This is a sight and sound extravaganza, where art meets Christmas. Woven in and around the National Trust’s Palladian house and gardens there’s neon stars wrapping trees, supernova installations, dancing la si fl ti ns an fli ing fla s in a ga n an all t a sti s n t a curated by Sony Music, with delicious independent foodie stalls along the trail.

Prices for Christmas at Stourhead start at £21.50 per adult and £15 per child, and runs until 1 January; www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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

WHAT’S ON

3 December –31 December

EXHIBITIONS

Until 20 December

BARBARA RAE

Adam Gallery’s new exhibition is the Arctic Series by Barbara Rae. The Scottish artist has made several voyages to the Arctic in the last few years recording the landscape and i fl s www.adamgallery.com

Until 24 December

WINTER EXHIBITION

Nick Mackman’s characterful ceramic animals are a big favourite at Beaux Arts. Also on exhibit at the gallery are Anthony Scullion, Chris Keenan, Beth Carter, Anna Gillespie, and Helen Simmonds. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

Until 31 December

HATCHING THE PAST: AMERICAN DINOSAUR EXPLORERS

This remarkable hands-on exhibition at the American s s an ast n ing a a of dinosaur eggs and nests collected from all over the globe, with focus on the importance of American fossil sites in our understanding of dinosaurs. There are also interactive dig pits and animated videos. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 31 December

HERSCHEL 200 EXHIBITION

To commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Bath-based astronomer William Herschel (1738-1822), this major exhibition at his former home on New King Street highlights the hugely important contributions both he and his sister Caroline made to the world’s understanding of space, including the discovery of Uranus. www.herschelmuseum.org.uk

Until 8 January WRAPPINGS

The Wrappings i iti n s the perfect opportunity to visit the ArtBar in Abbey Hotel, grab a tail an s t a a l art, prints and cards by six local artists, including Charlotte Farmer, and a collaboration between Jason Dorley-Brown and Emma Taylor. www.abbeyhotelbath.co.uk

Until 8 January

MY REALITY IS DIFFERENT BY

Until 8 January

ELISABETH FRINK: STRENGTH & SENSUALITY

The 11 works included depict the artist’s unique take on some of the most loved and well-known tales from Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, as well as classical Greek mythology in her Children of the Gods series of etchings. www.holburne.org

Until 8 January

RODIN – DEGAS: IMPRESSIONIST SCULPTURE

Bringing together two towering an infl ntial g s n European art, Auguste Rodin (1840–1917) and Edgar Degas (1834–1917), the Holburne Museum’s exhibition focuses on the artists’ equally radical representations of the human body. www.holburne.org

Until 15 January

PETER BROWN: BATH, BRISTOL AND BEYOND

Until 22 January CONNECTIONS

The Group 7 collective of artists are exhibiting and includes i ll i t s s la a Stephen Powell, Brian Bishop, Martin Brewster, Bonnie Brown, and Peter Symons. Black Swan Arts; www.blackswanarts.org.uk

Until 30 March

MAISIE WALKER

Society Café in Kingsmead Square is currently hosting a beautiful exhibition depicting the Pendine Sands Hot Races in Wales by Bath photographer and Instagram fave Maisie Walker. www.maisiewalker. co.uk | www.society-cafe.com

3 December

BEAR FLAT ARTISTS

CHRISTMAS ART FAIR & MARKET

MALANI

The artist has created an extraordinary deep black exhibition space in the Holburne Museum with one monumental, beautiful artwork encompassing more than 40 metres of wall. www.holburne.org

This exhibition from Bath-based artist Peter Brown, aka Pete the Street, at Victoria Art Gallery features more than 100 beautiful new oil paintings with scenes from Bath – including Avon Street Carpark, Bristol, Glastonbury and beyond. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Call in at the Methodist Church Hall on Bruton Avenue for a fabulous festive art market with unique gifts made by local artists. www earflatartists o

3 – 4 December

MODERN ARTBUYER

WINTER OPEN HOUSE

Artists being showcased include Maria Rivans, Bonnie and Clyde,

Peter Wright’s production of The Nutcracker for The Royal Ballet screens at Wiltshire Music Centre on 14 and 17 December
42 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

TOP: Anthony Scullion is just one of the many artists whose work features in the current Beaux Arts exhibition;

MIDDLE: Get skating at Victoria Park’s Bath on Ice;

BOTTOM: Comic, actor and big screen movie star Jack Whitehall is coming to the Bath Forum on 10 December

Plum Neasmith, Paul Minott, Paul Bennett, Trudy Montgomery, Sam Peacock, Mark Stopforth and Anna Simmons, as well as invited guest artists Rod Craig and Dylan Lloyd, and hand-made jewellery from local designer-maker Meg Gallally. www.modernartbuyer.com

11 December

BATH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS FAIR

Since its creation in 2020, BCAF has showcased more than 600 artists across 13 fairs, bringing the best of nt a a t in l ing n art, photography, sculpture, textiles and much more. www.bcaf.co.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA

Until 10 December ¡SHOWMANISM!

Dickie Beau goes on a journey of a thousand years embracing the politics and puzzles of performing personhood in and out of the spotlight. This is a hugely acclaimed love letter to the origins and orientations of performance. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

8 December – 8 January

ALADDIN

The enchanting story of a boy, a lamp, and a genie returns to spread magic across the Theatre Royal Bath stage this Christmas. Turn to page 48 for our panto special. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

14 / 17 December

SCREENING: THE ROYAL BALLET THE NUTCRACKER (ENCORE)

Peter Wright’s much-loved production for The Royal Ballet, with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular classical dancing. www.wiltshiremusic.org.uk

20 – 31 December

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

The Dickens classic, comes back to the Ustinov after its 2019 critically acclaimed and sell-out run, with Olivier Award winner Guy Masterson playing all the roles. www.theatreroyal.org.uks

22 December

THE MUPPETS

CHRISTMAS CAROL

The Disney classic starring Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Gonzo and Michael Caine as Ebeneezer Scrooge, will be big screened with the musical score, which was composed by Miles Goodman, performed live to the l Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

MUSIC

7 December

CAROLS AT THE REC

Call in at Bath Recreation Ground for a lovely celebratory evening of carols, family fun and Christmas cheer in the heart of Bath. All tickets are free but must be booked in advance. www.carolsattherec.com

8 December

THE WURZELS

The band of haystack-headed, cider guzzling, not-quite-so-young lads, are bringing Christmas classics to Komedia, and are supported by the West Country star Corky who made Ginster’s Paradise a viral sensation. www.komedia.co.uk

8 December

JOOLS HOLLAND AND HIS RHYTHM & BLUES ORCHESTRA

Legendary singer Lulu will be

WHAT’S ON
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 43

joining Jools at Bath Forum as he promotes his Pianola. Piano & Friends album, supported by the exuberant sound of the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. www.bathforum.co.uk

16 December

CHRISTMAS CAROLS IN THE CIRCUS

Organised by the Circus Area Residents Association for the residents but with an open invitation to all to come and sing along. Music by the Salvation Army. www.carabath.com

17 December

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES

This multi-media show by the world’s premier Beatles tribute band, along with an orchestral ensemble features a special set to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Please Please Me Bath Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

19 December

BATH CAMERATA’S

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

Conductor John Rutter CBE will join the award-winning chamber choir in t agni nt s n ings

Bath Abbey for a festive feast of wellloved carols and Christmas music. www.bathcamerata.co.uk

21 – 23 December

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

Bath Bach Choir’s 75th annual entertainment of Christmas music at the Pump Rooms will feature two maestros for the price of one. The new director of music, Benedict Collins Rice, along with retiring conductor Nigel Perrin www.bathbachchoir.org.uk

COMEDY

10 December

JACK WHITEHALL: WORK IN PROGRESS

The comedian, actor, and star of Bad Education, and more recently the hit Disney movie Jungle Cruise tries out new material at Bath Forum. www.bathforum.co.uk

Until 23 December

KRATER CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Complete with an all-star comedy lineup, an optional 1 or 3 course meal, and an ing t s fl ll lassi s until the early hours with after-parties courtesy of Fame & The Big Disco. Komedia Bath; www.komedia.co.uk

CHILDREN

9 December – 15 January

FIVE

CHILDREN AND IT

Written by Marietta Kirkbride,

based on the novel by E Nesbit. Five children discover a magical, mischievous and grumpy sand fairy called It with the power to grant spectacular wishes. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

9 – 31 December

MIDNIGHT MOLE

A heart-warming, moon-dancing adventure from the creative team behind Snow Mouse (with a nod to Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard) full of puppetry and music. Suitable for 6 months – 4 years. The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

LIGHTS, MARKETS AND ACTION

Until 11 December

BATH CHRISTMAS MARKET

Back to its full glory and celebrating its 20th anniversary, Bath’s biggest Christmas market sees artisan traders pack the streets with crafts, clothes, food and drink. Festive smells of cinnamon, orange and cloves waft through the air while mulled wine carts occupy seemingly every other corner. Turn to page 19 for Xmas market gift ideas. www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

Until 20 December

THE SWAPSHOP AND FATHER CHRISTMAS

The Bath BID Elf-o-Matic machine is taking over the Swapshop in Abbeygate Street and is hot desked by Father Christmas himself. Turn to 79 for the full story. www.bathbid.co.uk

Until 21 December

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT WESTONBIRT

Father Christmas’s elves have decorated the arboretum with beautiful sparkling lights creating a truly magical forest trail. www.forestryengland.uk

Until 31 December

THE ENCHANTED GARDEN OF LIGHT

A mesmerising after-dark adventure through light displays which emblazon the entire house, gardens, and woodland in glorious colour. www.americanmuseum.org

Until 1 January CHRISTMAS AT STOURHEAD

Immersive and spectacular artworks transform the National

44 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
ABOVE: Bath’s biggest Christmas market and probably one of Britain’s prettiest is on until 11 December; BELOW: Longleat’s legendary Festival of Light, on until 8 January, celebrates the world of Roald Dahl this year
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Marvin is working on his third album

Donver Bay by Sam Peacock can be seen at the Modern ArtBuyer Winter Open House the weekend of 3 – 4 December

Trust’s landscape garden and Palladian mansion this winter, with the return of the enchanting music and light trail. Turn to page 41 for more. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Until 2 January

ICE RINK AT CLARKS VILLAGE st its in i in at la s Village as part of the outlet’s ist as l ati ns ing g sts a t l agi al s ating an s ing experience. www.clarksvillage.co.uk

Until 3 January

BATH

ON ICE

It’s a dreamy winter wonderland at i t ia a at n is a for its 10th year with wintery music, t s g ls l in a s ing s as nal in s an l l st next door. www.bathonice.co.uk

Until 8 January

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT l ng it t n ant ist as Tree show, and the Santa Train, the wondrous world of Roald Dahl is ing l at at ngl at t is winter. Illuminated sights include the antasti F a ill n a st l lat i an a g an friendly giant. www.longleat.co.uk

4 December

CHRISTMAS EDITION OF THE FROME INDEPENDENT Magical at any time of the year, the nationally renowned Frome in n nt ta s it a n t a s ial in ist as s ing www.thefromeindependent.org.uk

4 / 8 / 9/ 10 December

CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOPS at a s n stgat Street for a series of fun and relaxed ist as at a ing s ssi ns More on page 9. www.bathcarnival.co.uk

16 December

BATH INDEPENDENT CHRISTMAS NIGHT MARKET a ing n a tati n t ning is an l ti an l t i n l al ati s ing their unique arty and foodie wares. Instagram @thebathindependent

OTHER

5 December

ENTRECONF

The Female Entrepreneurs’ dinner g ts n a at n g s Hotel du Vin. www.entreconf.com

6 December

DAME MARY BERRY

F at si nt an t n a ing in an nt ganis ings isits at a ili n t tal a t n l s i Cook and Share, n t ag a special recipe. www.toppingbooks.co.uk

12 December

SIR DAVID HEMPLEMAN-ADAMS ning s tal at t at ailing l as in at ill l in s t i at at a a it n i a i an i ai s t i la it il n an ng l a t li at ang an gl al a ing www.bathsailingclub.org.uk

12 December

BATH LIFE BUSINESS CLUB

Fas inating sin ss insig ts i a t a a inning a il n nst ti n an t n l ng it an int i a s ssi n an n t ing t niti s t nt in l s a t s al s nt t l l n www.mediaclash.co.uk

FIVE MINUTES WITH MARVIN MUONEKÉ

Marvin Muoneké is one of the talented jazz vocalists performing at the Swing into Christmas concert coming to Bath Forum on 7 December, along with the Down for the Count Orchestra conducted by Mike Paul-Smith. Marvin lives in Weston Super Mare and has released two albums, The Young Man with The Old Soul and Lockdown Hootenanny. Here he talks TV appearances and his New Year plans.

When did you first realise you had a musical talent?

I was six years old when I first discovered my talents for singing. My first instrument was the piano and then I dabbled in playing the cello for about two years.

And did you always know you wanted to sing?

When I was 10 years old, my voice broke and became significantly deeper and I thought that nobody wanted to hear a bass-baritone out at front, so I turned away from singing for a few years and went back to the piano. My confidence came back when I was 15 years old and I won my school charity talent competition when I sang Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me to The Moon

We hear it’s not the only competition you’ve entered..?

I was in the semi-finals of ITV’s

Britain’s Got Talent and have featured on BBC1’s The Voice They were both equally fantastic experiences, and they give you the kind of exposure you just can’t buy. Appearing on those shows definitely boosted my profile on national scale, as well as regionally.

Which of the two shows did you prefer?

Britain’s Got Talent was probably more exhilarating. Having the chance to perform at the London Palladium and the Hammersmith Apollo to thousands of people, as well as millions watching from home, was a great thrill in my career.

What can the Bath Forum audience expect at the concert on 7 December?

This is going to be a really beautiful Christmas celebration. We’ll be recreating the music of Nat King Cole, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and many more along with a 30-piece orchestral setting.

And what does 2023 hold in store for you?

I’m working on a third new album with original big band arrangements, and hopefully I’ll be touring it in and around the South West.

For more: www.marvinmuoneke.com | www.bathforum.co.uk

WHAT’S ON 46 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

IN THE PANTO SPOTLIGHT

We’re talking Christmas with this year’s Theatre Royal panto cast. Oh. Yes. We. Are.

Theatre Royal Bath’s panto season begins on 8 December with the tale of Aladdin and his magic lamp written by Bath’s own Jon Monie aka Wishee Washee. Expect a treasure trove of gems and plenty of ist as as t

main cast members to share their Christmas customs. We did, we did, we did.

KAYSHA NADA PLAYS PRINCESS

JASMINE

Will you decorate your dressing room for Christmas?

is is a t all st s t is is st ssing room, so I absolutely will be yes.

What’s your favourite Christmas tune?

Fairy Tale of New York. Honourable mentions have to go to Christmas Lights and Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Most memorable Christmas gift you’ve ever received?

Two gold rings from my parents which I wear pretty much every day.

Who would you like to invite under the mistletoe this year?

My celebrity crush is Brad Simpson, lead sing it a s s nit l i (Brad if you’re seeing this feel free to come watch the show).

What’s on your gift wish list?

Some new slippers, a dressing gown and a bottle of Baileys.

Favourite bit of the Christmas meal?

Roast parsnips. Least favourite – the sprouts and the pigs in blankets.

Favourite Christmas TV show?

Gavin and Stacey s n t at st ist as episode about 15 times. I think I could near enough recite it word for word.

Favourite Christmas movie?

Love Actually. I love the part where a devastated Emma Thompson cries in her bedroom –it changed my life. I also love Polar Express purely for the nostalgia.

Will you manage to travel back home for Christmas between shows?

I’m from Grimsby, which is a four hour drive from Bath, but some of my family are coming

here to watch the show on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. And we’re going to go out for Christmas dinner, which does feel strange, but I’m really excited about it. It’s also my little sister’s birthday on Christmas Day.

What’s your New Year resolution?

I’m really bad at sticking to resolutions. I don’t have a lot of self-discipline.

Have you got your New Year party outfit sorted?

I’m very into 1990s fashion at the minute so I’m going to have a good look through the charity shops in Bath.

ALEX ARAM PLAYS ALADDIN

What’s your favourite Christmas tune?

It has got to be Wham!’s Last Christmas! It’s a classic and always gives me the Christmas feels.

Anybody you’d like to catch under the mistletoe? Yeah… anybody!

48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk XXXXX
The cast of this year’s Theatre Royal panto Aladdin, from left to right, Kaysha Nada, Alex Aram, Tom Lister, Jon Monie and Nick Wilton PHOTOS BY FREIA TURLAND

What do you ask Santa for this year? This year I had an unfortunate revelation that iall an a lt as all an t in a t is as ing is a l t s st a an l t i ing a

Favourite bit of the Christmas meal? as t t ast tat s l t t s l t s ast tat s

Best Christmas TV show and why? an sins a a t a iti n at ing t Doctor Who Christmas Special every a s it as t t at

Where will you spend Christmas Day? n t nat l a l n t a l t t a l t st t a a ing i n s li in ist l a in l in it t s n ist as it t t is a

What’s your New Year resolution? a i t s it l n s a ing i s is all i tant t

TOM

PLAYS ABANAZAR

What’s your favourite Christmas tune? i lt t s a t t n I’ll Be Home For Christmas ing s

Most memorable Christmas gift you’ve ever given? still t sats as in i s st ing n ist as a t s t littl t ings

Your favourite bit of the Christmas meal? st ng

What will you be watching on TV over Christmas if you get the chance? tt all t ing s s

Favourite Christmas movie? an t all s t n Home Alone; Santa Claus: The Movie; and It’s a Wonderful Life

Your favourite cracker joke? t a s an s n a s n a a

Will you be partying over New Year? ill tting s n an sl ing a t a ing n s s

JON MONIE PLAYS WISHEE WASHEE, AND IS THE PANTO’S SCRIPT WRITER

Do you decorate your dressing room? n as a ng an t n int a ita l anta s g tt t n a a s it s li a an g at an a a i tant t an ai lig ts an a l s

What’s the most memorable Christmas gift you’ve ever received? n as ig t a nts ga a sn ta l an st int t a s a sai a a g s n t at st a l t n

Is there anybody you’d like to catch under the mistletoe? li s a s al i tt n s t l istl t is intl ss

What did you ask Santa for this year? at an a

Favourite bit of the Christmas meal? g t t iniat s i s t a ist as a an g t in a a s

Your favourite festive TV show? The Morecambe and Wise 1971 Christmas Special t n in s t al n

Favourite Christmas movie and why? a assingl t a s an n seen; Elf White Christmas Love Actually an st s a ll It’s A Wonderful Life s ll i Die Hard a s a t all at it

Where will you be spending Christmas Day? I only live a few miles outside Bath so I’m t nat t a l t s n ist as at it g an s an in n

Favourite Christmas cracker joke please s a t a li is t n t a si

Got your New Year party outfit sorted? s l t l ll in s ann al ing n at an a a t

What are you up to post-panto? n t a t ant n n s

NICK WILTON PLAYS WIDOW TWANKEY

How do you decorate your dressing room? s n t ati ns as al t s a is ta n it a ll l t s ail l in s a s s an t in l g an t s a s a it igs gl s an ll sti s att at a t lig ts n t i t g

What’s your favourite Christmas tune? ist as l l t it t la s Merry Christmas Everybody an i a s I Wish it could be Christmas Every Day

What is the most memorable Christmas gift you’ve ever received? a s ag g t a n l a l ist as s nt it t a i al st g an a g t n

And the best present you’ve given? t t t g t i li t g t s l it an a n l a s t t at

Who will you be kissing under the mistletoe? i n tt i sl

Best parts of the Christmas dinner? ss l s ts in i s an a glass t it a ni it s at t n t a

Your favourite Christmas movie? n t a ig an ist as i s in g n al t l White Christmas s iall t it t n t ig s an it s sn ing tsi n it s n t it al a s ings a t a t

What will you be doing for Christmas Day? t s t a t i t itsta l n t a s ill g ing t i n tt an g inni n a a an i n t sta in ntil a s an a in it i a l an is la ing an is a tn t in s ist as l n

Tell us your favourite panto joke. st g t a t t t l i t s illiant t s it l i ing s s s an l i ing s n

What are you up to post-panto? n li a t a a t ant n s as ill a a t g

Aladdin opens at the Theatre Royal Bath on 8 December and runs until 8 January.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49 ARTS
“How does Darth Vader like his turkey? On the dark side”

The LOVES and LIVES of the LINLEYS

How the talented musical Linley family rocked Georgian Bath with their duels, elopements, gossip, and scandal

There was a time when the chief attraction of Bath wasn’t its hot springs and Roman spas or the Abbey or the Georgian buildings, but music. Eager to increase the volume of fashionable visitors in the early 18th century, the enterprising Master of Ceremonies, Beau Nash, engineered a new social climate in which the nobility, the gentry and the rising middle lass l i l an asil t t n t all it s ill n ts t a s n an servants) – and music was his secret weapon.

Rampant aspirations

First he built an Assembly House and ballroom on the east side of Terrace Walk, overlooking the weir on the Avon, as a venue for public concerts, masquerades – and marriage prospecting. Then, with the backing of the Corporation and his own clout as ‘King of Bath’, he outlawed all private parties, and promoted instead breakfast concerts in the Pump Room, and evening concerts and balls in the new Rooms. For music he formed a small band, paying each player a guinea a week, and to maintain harmony he banned swords, top boots and swearing, regulated gambling and shooed the revellers out of the door at eleven sharp.

By the 1760s, an enterprising and talented young bass singer and harpsichordist, Thomas

52 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
LEFT: Thomas Linley senior was a talented musician and an ambitious father; RIGHT: Thomas Linley junior died when he was just 22 THOMAS LINLEY SENIOR, BATH, LATE 1760S (BY THOMAS GAINSBOROUGH; DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY THOMAS LINLEY JUNIOR, BATH, C. 1772 (THOMAS GAINSBOROUGH; DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY)

Linley was soon running the band, and giving it a new lustre with virtuosi from London (J. C. Bach, Karl Friedrich Abel, the castrato Giusto Tenducci) – and his own gifted and attractive children, the sopranos Elizabeth, Mary and Maria, the violinist and composer Thomas junior and the oboist Samuel. All three of these Linley siblings were prodigies, but doomed by inherited tuberculosis – and crushed by the rampant aspirations of their despotic father, who drove them too hard.

Brought up in Abbey Green – later Old a t t an nall as t a il prospered, the Crescent – they were painted by their neighbour, Thomas Gainsborough, and lodger, Ozias Humphry, and their portraits whetted the public appetite for sight and sound of these musical wonders.

Favourites at court

With the large fees the children earned, and from his own growing practice as teacher and impresario, Linley was soon able to send his eldest son to London to study composition with the great William Boyce, Master of the King’s Musick. There young Tom created a sensation not just with his violin, but with his singing and dancing too, and soon he and Elizabeth were favourites at court. After three years with Dr Boyce, the boy showed such promise that his father decided he should go on to Italy to study violin with Pietro a ini a s s t in a 1768, Tom took his sister Elizabeth up to The Circus to sit again for Gainsborough, whose beautiful double portrait, exhibited as A Beggar Boy and Girl, shows them both looking characteristically wistful.

Birds of a feather

In Florence Tom gave concerts for the Grand Duke of Tuscany and the musical milordi who lived there in self-imposed exile – the rich a ls an ln an t t i Horace Mann. Somehow the boy steered a sa s t g t s ti g s an in 1771, still only13, he met in Florence the great wonder of the times, a boy of his own age and temperament, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

he honourably backed down, Linley senior sued him for breach of contract, Long gave him £3,000 as a sop, Bath talked of nothing else, and the one-legged actor, Samuel Foote, wrote a hit play satirising them all, The Maid of Bath.

An elopement and a duel

Just at this moment Tom arrived back from Italy to take over as leader, and star soloist, of his father’s orchestra in Bath – and found the drama wasn’t over. On the night of 18 March 1772, when Elizabeth was supposed to be singing Handel in Bristol, she and Sheridan eloped to France. When Linley senior found them, hauled them home and locked up his daughter, another of Elizabeth’s suitors insulted Sheridan, who challenged him to a duel on King’s Down. The two men rolled around on the ground, hacking at each other with bits of broken sword, and Sheridan was badly wounded. His sisters nursed him back to health in Bath, before he was sent away to read for the Bar.

By this time Linley senior had been appointed conductor of the oratorio seasons at the Drury Lane Theatre in London, with his daughter Elizabeth and his son Tom as the chief attractions. One afternoon Sheridan forced his way into the theatre, declared his love for Elizabeth, and within days they were married. It wasn’t the happiest of unions, because Sheridan wouldn’t allow his wife to sing – too unladylike, he said, and too arousing – so he kept her at home, while he himself ran amok among his lady admirers.

Mysterious death

As birds of a feather, prodigies raised in a hothouse of powerfully assertive adults, they fell into one another’s arms, and, according to Mozart’s father, Leopold, for the next week they spent as much time embracing as making music. The music historian Charles Burney wrote that ‘The Tommasino … and the little Mozart, are talked of all over Italy, as the most promising geniusses [sic] of this age’.

Meanwhile the Linleys at home in Bath found themselves at the centre of a growing drama. Pursued by suitors, Elizabeth loved the penniless playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan, but her father wanted her to marry an elderly bachelor with a huge fortune, Walter Long, of South Wraxall. When Elizabeth told the old gentleman she could never love him,

In 1775 Sheridan wrote a comic opera, The Duenna, inspired by his elopement with Elizabeth, and Tom composed the music. He had already written incidental music for Sheridan’s famous plays, The Rivals and The School for Scandal, together with sonatas and concertos and some powerful choral works. But in the summer of 1778, while staying with his patron, the Duke of Ancaster, at Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire, he was drowned in a mysterious boating accident, aged only 22. Today he’s forgotten, but his childhood friend Mozart said he was a true genius who would have become ‘one of the greatest ornaments of the musical world’.

Tommasino:

The Enigma

of the English Mozart by Tony Scotland, £25, is available through the publisher’s website Shelf Lives or can be ordered through Bath independent bookshops. On 12 December the author will be giving an illustrated talk about the book at the Bath o a iterar and ienti Institution.

or more www r si or www s e flives or

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53 ARTS
“Crushed by the rampant aspirations of theirfather”despotic
Mozart (far right, playing the spinet) and Thomas Linley junior (violin), with the Gavard des Pivets family, Florence, 1770 (anon.)

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY Present tense

As festive gifting deadlines approach, here is a i a t t gripping books that will appeal to a broad range of book-lovers. Together they go to show that whether

you’re reading an illustrated children’s book, a memoir, a psychological thriller or a collection of humorous cartoons, tension and excitement are guaranteed if the book is right.

Thrills are never far away on a trip into the jungle, courtesy of Emily Hawkins and R Fresson’s Spin to Survive: Deadly Jungle (Wide Eyed Editions, £20). This interactive book is ostensibly for children, but I challenge any grown-up to avoid getting drawn in. i a s g ting antas ga but with the goblins extracted and given a full-colour stunning design makeover, Spin to Survive is part story of a lost Amazonian city and part game of luck and decision-making. Once the scene is set and you’ve found out why it s ial t n t st it t ag a God, you begin weaving your way around all manner of jungle-jeopardy using the built-in survival spinner to help, or hinder, you. The true extent of the book’s genre-blending is al t a t l s is al ng the way; how to build rafts, identify poisonous berries or simply how to survive in the real jungle (if there’s no spinner to hand). a a a is a an it n shortage of survival skills up her Arctic parka sleeve. In Ice Rivers (Penguin, £12.99) she recounts a career of glacier scaling, complete with polar bear encounters, abseiling down icy crevasses and having her mind blown by stunning ice caverns. Beneath the adventure though, is the all-too serious side of her work as a glaciologist –monitoring the fragile and thinning state of the ice, and spreading her knowledge of what needs to be done to slow climate change.

The conceit of Anomaly by Hervé le Tellier (Penguin, £9.99) is one of the best set-ups I’ve come across recently. A commercial airliner heads into a violent storm and, in the tumult, the plane duplicates. One version lands on schedule, whilst the other – with a matching set of passengers n a nl a a s in n

As government cover-ups and conspiracy theorists spring into action, the newly arrived versions of the passengers are initially sequestered, whilst a plan is made to determine which version of each individual should live the single available life.

Anomaly won France’s Prix Goncourt and is a mind-boggling multi-layered psychological mystery that will leave you with as many questions as answers.

Finally, Revenge of the Librarians an ngat is is a t nist Tom Gauld’s latest inspired collection. In his trademark minimalist few-tone panels, Gauld pokes gentle fun at book nerds, unproductive authors, and hard-nosed publishers.

Without fail, each single page-vignette will have you chuckling away, whether it’s a dystopian view of the hidden powers of t i al ling s st i s looking in on a writer who constantly stares at them and wondering if she’s ‘a committed ornithologist or a very unfocused writer’. His summary of summer reading for conspiracy theorists includes Of Mice and itt e reen en and Slaughterhouse 5G

There’s even a library record card included inside the book’s cover which, in a call-back to the book’s title, states that late returns ill in n s an t is l as t librarian’. A fair warning, as an angered librarian is certainly one of the most fearsome foes that literature or life can throw at you.

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s m ori m o eadin e i ts o n treet at te www mr sem ori m om

It s r ia to nd the Lost City of the a ar od
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55
Gripping reads that make for the perfect Christmas gifts

THRINGS MEETS… CANNED WINE CO.

Kathryn Bew: Whilst it is quite clear that the product is pretty much what is says on the tin – or can – what is Canned Wine?

Simon Rollings: We’re all about making delicious, high-quality wines accessible to everyone in the most sustainable way we can –all in a handy can. We like to work away from the ordinary and have worked to establish a varied and interesting range of international wines from our home in Bath.

KB: How did you get started?

SR: I met my business partner Ben Franks at a wine tasting whilst studying my MBA at the University of Bath and we realised we shared a genuine appreciation for wine. His background as a wine journalist and as the founder of the award-winning Bath-based wine merchant Novel Wines paired perfectly with my background in food start-ups such as Hello Fresh and Eat First, and the idea started to come together. Frustratingly, our plan to launch in March 2020 was hindered by Covid, but this gave us 12 months of no expectations and so much more opportunity to learn more about wine and the processes to create it and we’re very pleased with the outcome.

KB: I suppose the real question is, why can wine?

SR: We wanted to take something that is inherently undesirable and make it desirable. The standard view of wine, especially the premium kind, is that it comes in a bottle, but this often makes it inaccessible, almost deliberately so. Our aim is to break down those walls and open it up to a wider audience, giving them a way to experience that level of quality without having to invest

in a whole bottle, which can be very expensive.

KB: Who would you say your wine is for?

SR: In our view, wine is for everyone, hence our vision to make it more accessible. We want to see our wine being enjoyed by those who want to learn more about it and try new things, but don’t necessarily want to drink more.

KB: You mentioned sustainability. How does that influence using cans?

SR: Cans are the most effective in terms of both creativity and carbon reduction. They are lighter than bottles and much easier to pack and move around. Cans also emit 70 per cent fewer CO2 emissions compared to glass bottles, which drastically reduces our impact on the environment.

KB: What inspired you to set up Canned Wine Co. in Bath?

SR: It’s such an interesting

place to start up a business and is a community that is really supportive of start-ups. Almost all our staff also hail from one of the two universities in Bath. From a wine perspective, there is no reason that it needs to have a London label to be noticed and we love talking about the fact we are from Bath.

KB: The cans themselves are beautiful. What is the inspiration behind each design?

SR: Rarely do you drink from the bottle when it comes to wine, but there is a higher likelihood that you’d drink from the can and we wanted to make sure the experience of having it in your hand was a good one. We were keen to portray the concept of flavour through the packaging as it is the simplest way to give people a sense of what they are buying when they pick it up off the shelf and have worked with another Bath company called Amphora on the designs.

We’ve recently partnered with the National Gallery in London to feature a range of their art on

a series of our cans after they tried our wines and saw how the art reflected in the quality of the product itself. They also felt the partnership highlighted their sustainability goals, an important focus ahead of their 250th anniversary next year.

KB: What does the future hold for Canned Wine Co.?

SR: We are very excited to be debuting at the Bath Christmas Market this year and hope to launch in supermarkets next year. We are looking forward to continuing to expand our team and improve our core range of wines to be the best they can be.

To find out more about Canned Wine Co., visit www.cannedwine.co. n

2 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HQ 01225 340000; solicitors@thrings.com www.thrings.com

Kathryn Bew, partner at THRINGS meets Simon Rollings, founder & CEO of CANNED WINE CO.
SPONSORED CONTENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

THE BATH TOWNHOUSE

as t is st lis a iti n t t at s ining s n ll a ga

Gap on Old Bond Street was, for years, the Mecca for denim jeans in various rises and numerous styles, and for slightly dull but always safe laid back American-style casual wear. It may have lost its dark denim bootcut allure but the fall of the successful chain on the High Street was still a huge shock nationwide and in Bath left a very prominent, gaping, two-storey hole.

Having a very visible, large empty unit in the centre of Bath is always a depressing sight, and we already know many of the retailers are struggling as it is, so it’s unlikely a s all t a is g ing t a l t ll t s a

So it was with some relief the Coppa Club swept in and renovated the whole place. This is the 11th Coppa Club to have opened up across the UK, and the second in the South West. These players have money it would seem, and also really good design ideas and taste in décor.

The Bath Townhouse is elegant, welcoming, and

very Bath. The exterior is a thoughtful and considered design – duck egg blue, huge windows, retention of the gian a a flan ta l s ig n g t s at four, and accompanying curlicue bistro chairs. Inside is n l ss i ssi nstai s as t a sta vibe of a grand hotel lobby – lush green plants in huge bronze planters, plush velvet emerald seating, and art deco inlaid orange panelling.

Upstairs (where the men’s cargo pants used to be and is now accessed by a gorgeous curve of staircase with movie-star good looks) is more like a private member’s club. The glittering bar – bathed in a soft gold light and a it an a st a t al s fla s – is bordered by red come-hither and sit-on-me plump leather bar stools. Everything is backlit, the music is both soft and up-tempo. If a restaurant can be sexy, then Bath Townhouse has got it going on.

But if great food and grown up service is where you get your kicks, this might not be the place for you. The

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

sta anag t at i a t t lling t ing i as ing ta at t s l ting a is as a a ing i in all n stl n t in n it sn t ant t l t n t tall n t s t i sta t an t als s anag n t t a t all s a it as ag a t ng si a it s a gin an l ing a n s t is F i a nig t t is is t a ag ag t li nt l ng s st aig t t t as t s a t l st ti at s an g s ngst s l a n i a s an an l li t ll t an s ing s i asn t a t it als asn t g at ala a i as in istin t an n t ill as g ing t an s an i n is s i ni l tt il i i n ings t at a it a a ag sala an a a ing ll t t i a in nglis sta t n a t an it l s li it s l a n illi a is flat i n itis g ass st a an s inn i s as ing in at a st ng s n t t t at an a n s ag tti s in at a l t as n a l st n l an t s ag tti i is a t all s ag tt ni n t a t tast li i a n n l s st l s an s i s an s l as n n a a t n t l l an n a l t is as nall l a a a it as it an ns ing i a a ing n fl ti n a a t a l n t t at n s s int n g a i g ing t t i n s fli t s a a i a an in tails t n t is is a a ti l i s t an ill nit l i t t alt nati at ing l t s t a anna s n t ant t assl ing ssi l n ating n ai n ss t s a l t t sai st l nt nt s iall i it lls a ga in t a t

DINING DETAILS

The Bath Townhouse, 18-19 Old Bond St, Bath BA1 1BP. tel: 01225 435398; www.coppaclub.co.uk

Opened 16 August 2022

History of the Coppa Club Coppa Club first opened six years ago, with the flagship site in Sonning. It provided a space that combined the best elements of a café, bar, restaurant, and lounge into one offering. It says its aim is ‘to provide something for everyone with an informal, relaxed feel’ Coppa Club locations include The Georgian in Haslemere, as well as Coppa Putney, Coppa Clifton, Coppa Tower Bridge, Coppa Cobham, Coppa Henley, Coppa Maidenhead, Coppa Brighton, The Swan at Streatley, Coppa Club and The Great House, Coppa Club, which both offer riverside hotel bedrooms Opening hours 9am to 11pm

Type of food served British/Mediterranean Covers 108

Outdoor space A small and pretty terrace at the front of the restaurant

Recommendations The sourdough pizzas do look good and are reasonable value starting at £10.50, and the four cheese made with fior di latte, fontal, gorgonzola, parmesan and spring onions sounded delicious

Prices Starters cost between: £7 to £9.50; mains £10.50 - £35, desserts £7 to £8.50

Drinks Along with wine, beer, spirits, there’s extensive cocktails and mocktails options

Vegetarian options Yes, lots Disability access Yes

Atmosphere Office drinks meets glamorous speakeasy vibe.

RESTAURANT
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59
“If a restaurant can be sexy, then the Bath Townhouse has got it going on”
1-2 New Street, Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AF Tel: 01225 466377 www.pekingrestaurantbath.co.uk a @PekingBath f pekingrestaurant Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 12 noon – 2.00pm and 6.00pm – 10.30pm | Closed Sundays. CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN Open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve (closed Christmas Day to 30th December) Family run and providing quality food and service since 1985 A warm welcome awaits you this season. Scan to view our festive menus.

NOT ANOTHER CHRISTMAS CAKE!

Instead we’re celebrating with a Mary Berry chocolate special

GLORIOUS CHOCOLATE TRUFFLE DESSERT

The Queen of Baking, and former Bath resident, Mary Berry is coming to the Bath Pavilion on 6 December for an event organised by Topping & Company Booksellers to talk about her new cookbook Cook and Share. It’s all based around the ethos of making dishes perfect for sharing with family and friends – a true celebration of post-restrictions times. Here she shares with us her Glorious lat ss t a g g s alternative to the much moaned about, a l nis ist as a a sa s “Decadent, indulgent, impressive, delicious –all the fancy words describe this dessert – a real celebration of chocolate. It takes a bit of time, but is so worth making for a special occasion.”

Ingredients for chocolate cake

Butter, for greasing 250g (9oz) Bournville plain chocolate, broken into pieces 6 eggs, 5 of them separated 225g (8oz) caster sugar 150g (5oz) ground almonds

Ingredients for truffle filling 180g (6½ oz) Bournville plain chocolate, broken into pieces

75g (3oz) caster sugar

1 tbsp brandy

3 egg yolks, beaten 300ml (½ pint) pouring double cream

Ingredients for decoration

Cocoa powder, for dusting 200ml (1/3 pint) pouring double cream lat t s al

Method

1 Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas

6. Grease and base line 2 × 20cm (8in) loosebottomed sandwich or springform tins.

2 To make the chocolate cake, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water until melted. Leave to cool a little.

3 Whisk the 5 egg whites in a large mixing bowl it an l t i is ntil sti t n t n a separate large bowl, use an electric whisk to whisk together the 5 egg yolks, the remaining whole egg and the sugar until thick and light in colour. The mixture should be thick enough to leave a trail when the whisk is lifted from the bowl.

4 Stir in the almonds, melted chocolate and 1 tablespoon of the whisked egg whites. Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites using a metal spoon. Mix carefully until combined, without knocking any air out of the mixture.

5 Spoon into the prepared tins and gently tilt the tins to level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a slight crust forms on the top and the cakes have started to shrink away from the sides of the tins. Leave to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes, then turn out on to a wire rack.

il t a s a ling a t t lling la t lat i s in a ss an i ntil n l

7 Measure the sugar and 6 tablespoons of water into a small saucepan and stir over a low

heat until the sugar has dissolved. Bring up to the boil and boil for 20 seconds. Pour this sugar syrup into the processor while the motor is running to melt the chocolate. Scape down the sides of the bowl to make sure there are no lumps. Add the brandy and egg yolks and whiz again. Spoon into a bowl.

8 In a separate large bowl, use an electric whisk t is t a t sti a s F l t a into the chocolate and brandy mixture.

9 Grease and line the sides of a deep 20cm (8in) loose-bottomed cake or springform tin with non-stick baking paper. Place one cake into the base of the springform tin top side n an ss n l n t ss lling n t an s a t t g s la t second cake top side up on top and press gently. Sprinkle the top with cocoa powder and chill in the fridge for 6 hours.

10 When ready to serve, remove the tin and transfer to a serving plate. Whip the cream t s t a s an s n int a i ing ag tt with a rosette nozzle. Pipe 8 large rosettes n t an la al a lat t in each one.

Cook and Share by Mary Berry (BBC Books, |RRP £27) can be bought from Topping & Company Booksellers, York Street, Bath. For more: www.toppingbooks.co.uk

RECIPE www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 63
PHOTOGRAPHY
8 – 1 0
Serves

IN

FOOD & DRINK

SEASON

WITH VERITY GENCO PARSNIPS

s s as nal it pickings are a little slimmer this time of year, whereas new seasonal vegetables are plentiful. White and red cabbage are at their very best. The arrival of the Jerusalem artichoke lends itself to winter-warming sweet nutty soups, stews and gratins, the quintessential quince it an a t n t a t seeking out, but this month I’m drawn to a vegetable, perhaps most commonly enjoyed on Christmas day. Gone are the days of dull-tasting, under-seasoned boiled brussel sprouts, parsnips and carrots ( I hope!). The roasted vegetable trio has for many years had a si l t ti a ast t

vegetables with honey, sprinkled crushed nuts, cheese, chestnuts or slivers of bacon is now the modern way of enjoying these sides that can often outshine the main. The parsnip for me however still has more to in t a ati ing

Parsnips taste at their very best when i a t t st st t t sta s converting to sugar over time, enhancing t i fla a ing t t time of year to enjoy the magnolia-hued, creamy vegetable.

Parsnips indeed have an image problem, often associated with scarecrows’ noses, a slightly confused sweetness that can waiver between pleasant and peculiar and a history that hasn’t helped its cause either – much like the potato, it’s previously been associated with poverty and shortage. Yet at n int sting is t at il i the parsnip was once used as a substitute for expensive honey, and cooked parsnips were

n fla it anana ss n in a vain attempt to mimic the much-loved and missed exotic fruit during World War II. This vegetable, therefore, is suited to both savoury as well as sweet dishes, so I hope you will join me in pimping up the parsnip this Christmas with cinnamonspiced parsnip brownies or a browned butter parsnip loaf cake.

At your Christmas dinner parties, make parsnips the star of the show with a sweet, earthy, gently spiced curry parsnip soup topped with parsnip crisps. Parsnip blinis layered with cream cheese and caramelised onion make a delightful festive party canapé, and for the ultimate brunch, switch out potato with parsnips and make homemade latkes served with a poached egg and smoked haddock.

For more recipe inspiration, follow Verity on Insta ram @ ort eflavo r w ere s e e s arin more arsni ideas t ro o t t e mont

JINGLE BELL ROCK

g t it at t l is gi ing festive season guests a trip to remember. For revellers, there’s an i nig t t at t anti i at ingl ll l t sti a t F a an l l si nig ts in g sts an t t at a si nt il n ing a three-course gourmet dinner, including a welcome drink and half a bottle of wine thrown in for good measure.

There’s something for families too – in the morning Santa and his trusty elves will make a unique breakfast appearance for the little ones, giving kids the chance to meet the big an il n ing a ntin ntal t a ast in l ing pancakes and a Christmas selection box. or more www a e ote s o

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S FOOD SCENE
64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Meet Father Christmas over breakfast at the Apex Hotel Pimp up your parnips this Christmas © VERITY GENCO

MODERN COMFORTS

The Botanist’s new winter food menu is live. Sharing boards, oozy cheese fondue and the restaurant’s own take on the viral ‘butter board’ trend (think whipped goat’s cheese butter decoratively spread onto a sharing board, topped with onion, radish, prosciutto and dill, served with fresh warm nduja honey bread) and classic hanging kebabs with a festive twist dominate the distinctly Instagrammable menu.

They’ve gone all out with the starters and sides, which include bowls of pigs in blankets, glazed with orange and cranberry, a s a ing a t a t n s it n mustard glazed ham, crispy porcini gnocchi, roast potatoes and bread croutons to dip into it, and a classic three-cheese baked mac ‘n’ cheese. Puddings-wise, the signature cookie dough now has a seasonal twist, with new After Eight and Celebrations fla s a aila l

For more: www.thebotanist.uk.com

WHAT’S COOKING?

All About the Cooks has launched in Bath. The marketplace website connects talented home cooks with hungry local people, providing a platform for them to sell their food. The sit at s a l ag l a n a t t i ing t i st i s an a ti al information like food hygiene ratings and delivering/ collection information.

“People use the website by putting in their postcode,” says founder Claire Ladkin. “They are then presented with a list of cooks near them in order of proximity – I have eight cooks within a mile of my house, for example. They choose their food, order and pay, just like buying anything online.”

s s an t n ganis an ll ti n ti s it the cook direct. There are a variety of cuisines available through the service, including vegetarian thali feasts, Balkan specialities and Filipino family meals.

For more: www.allaboutthecooks.co.uk

THE NEW GAFF

There’s a new restaurant coming to Milsom Place this month. The Gaff is a new venture from Dan Saunders and Danielle Phillips, serving up beautifully curated small plates inspired by chef Dan’s Michelin star-background.

“We want guests to feel at home as soon they walk through the door,” say owners Dan and Danielle, who also own a Gaff in Abergavenny. “After all, ‘the gaff’ is slang for home.”

In addition to the main restaurant, there will also be a chef’s table and private dining room where guests can get up close and personal with the chefs as they design and serve a unique tasting menu with accompanying drinks flight.

For more: www.thegaffrestaurant.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 65 FOOD & DRINK
All About the Cooks allows home chefs like Quelly and Russell to connect with customers for their dishes Camembert fondue is one of the highlights of The Botanist’s seasonal menu

IN GOOD SPIRITS

Getting seasonally shaken and stirred by Bath’s top mixologists

Each one of these is a specially created Christmas cocktail guaranteed to have us a merry little Christmas. There’s a recipe for each of the 12 days of Christmas, plus one for luck.

“This one of our favourite winter cocktails,” says director Alex Peters. “With plum, grilled cherries, tart and sweet notes on the palate and the zest of the orange rind cutting through beautifully. It is perfect to sip and enjoy before sitting down to the big Chistmas dinner. It’s also delicious after the meal. Actually it’s good anytime.”

Ingredients

1oz sloe gin (Hayman’s is good, homemade is best).

1oz Dubonnet

1oz Campari

Method

Fill a favourite lead crystal tumbler with ice. Add equal parts of the three ingredients. Stir with a fondue fork for a good thirty seconds. Twist a halfinch piece of orange rind over the drink to release the oils and drop the twist in the drink. Serve immediately.

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

SLOW AND STEADY

By THE PIG-near Bath; www.thepighotel.com

“This take on a classic Negroni has a mouth-watering array of flavours to taste,” explain THE PIG-near Bath bar team. “Bitter from the Aperol, sweet from the sloe gin, and spicy from the whisky, it’s an absolute winner for so many different taste palates. We suggest some crackling with apple sauce, or some freshly roasted hazelnuts as a side accompaniment.”

Ingredients

25ml winter spice infused rye whisky

25ml sloe gin

35ml Aperol

Method

Put all ingredients in a rocks glass and stir over ice. Add more ice, and then garnish with fresh rosemary and a lemon twist.

DUST & PINE

By Robun; www.robun.co.uk

Bar manager Annabel Croll says, “Flamboyant, refined and faultless, this new cocktail takes inspiration from our extensive range of Japanese spirits and liqueurs. The Dust & Pine has the tenderly melting taste of white chocolate, cream, caramel and vanilla from the Mozart, paired with the sweet and sour taste of Umeshu, topped with the scent of rosemary pine. Serve at a postChristmas dinner with authentic Japanese food, such as yakiniku, sushi and sashimi.”

Ingredients

25ml Mozart white chocolate

25ml Hakutsuru Umeshu

12.5ml Tamanohikari Yuzushu

20ml white cacao

Dash of cranberry bitters

Method

Using a sliced lemon to help the sugar stick, garnish the rim of a coupe glass with red sugar. Pour the Mozart, Umeshu, Yuzushu, white cacao and dash of cranberry bitters into a shaker. Shake to combine, before double straining over the sugar rimmed cocktail glass. Serve with a final garnish of icing sugar dusted rosemary pine.

LIVED IN BOOT

Sam, the Common Room’s day manager, says, “This is a new drink taken from our ‘Rambunctious Rhymes for the Discerning Drinker’ cocktail menu. The spiced rum used in this drink is like a Cristingle in a bottle. Cloves, orange peel, nutmeg and cinnamon are big players for the flavours. And who doesn’t like either a warming fruit tea or a chilled Appletiser with their Christmas dinner. Combine the three and you have a tasty tinsel-time tipple. It can also be made for the kiddies by swapping the rum for a splash of sugar syrup, vanilla essence and orange peel in the glass.”

Ingredients

50ml (double shot) Lugger spiced rum (or Rumbullion)  12.5ml (half shot) Bristol Syrup Company Lime Sherbet 12.5ml (half shot) Apple & Cinnamon tea syrup

Top with Appletiser

Fizzy lace to garnish

Method

To make the apple and cinnamon tea syrup get two apple and cinnamon tea bags, 300ml boiled water from kettle, 150g sugar (granulated or castor). Steep tea for 2 minutes in water, remove tea bags, add sugar and stir. Then fill a tall glass (preferably a glass slipper or glass boot) with ice, add rum, tea syrup and lime sherbet. Top with Appletiser. Stir with long spoon. Garnish with a fizzy lace.

SPICED MULE

“This is a Flow festive twist on the vodka mule,“ says bar manager and cocktail lead Seb ‘Pineapple’. “It is best enjoyed with a side of pigs in blankets, and in the company your favourite people.”

Ingredients

Vodka Blueberry purée Cinnamon syrup

Fresh lime and a dash of ginger beer

Method

Stir together vigoursly. Garnish with mint sprig, berries, and a cinnamon stick. Sprinkle of icing sugar to finish.

70 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
COCKTAILS

HOLLABACK GIRL

“This drink is our top seller from the Christmas Market hot drinks we do every year,” says bartender Daniel Tanner. “It tastes buttery and banana-y with a rich chocolate back bone and is best drunk on Christmas Eve watching Home Alone, Die Hard or Elf. We’d also go for a couple of toasted marshmallows if we really wanna spike our insulin levels.”

Ingredients

45ml buttered discarded banana rum  50ml cocoa condensed milk  Pinch of salt  Hot water

Method

Dissolve 1 butterscotch sweet in every 50ml rum. The condensed milk is a 2:1 ratio of condensed milk to water by weight. Simply mix till dissolved. Condensed milk water mix 10:1 cocoa powder by weight. Serve in a cup suitable for hot drinks (a latte cup is perfect). Top with whipped cream and to finish sprinkle a little cocoa powder.

WIZARD GOAT

Billy Snipp, general manager says, “The Wizard Goat was chosen because one of our senior bartenders was keen to create a cocktail using blueberry as the main flavour, which then progressed into a blueberry, lime and thyme syrup, which in turn becomes the base of the drink.

“The overall flavour is an immediate taste of blueberry with finishing notes of a light smokiness brought in by the mezcal. This is complemented with the fresh mint also. It’s become a favourite of both the bar team and the customers and is a deliciously sweet winter warmer. For the best taste results serve in a Nick & Nora, which is a longstemmed coupe style glass.”

Ingredients

30ml blueberry lime and thyme syrup

30ml blanco tequila

10ml mezcal

5ml blue curaçao

10ml fresh lime juice

Method

Heat 400g of blueberries in a pan until soft and reduced, add 400g of caster sugar and mix well, then add the peel and juice of 1 lime, 160ml of water and 3 sprigs of thyme. Mix and continue to heat for another 5 mins, leave to infuse then strain. Shake with ice and double strain to make sure no shards of ice are left, and garnish with a mint leaf that is stuck to the side of the glass using sugar syrup.

72 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
COCKTAILS

SIDE-SLEIGH

By No

CHOCOLATE ORANGE NEGRONI

By The Cosy Club; www.cosyclub.co.uk

Pritesh Mody, the Channel 4 Sunday Brunch mixologist who designed this for the Cosy Club, says, “This cocktail is a nostalgic and punchy variation of a negroni, featuring bittersweet notes of marmalade and dark chocolate. It works well served with a treat like a rich chocolate cheesecake.”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 73
Tanqueray
25ml
25ml
Ingredients 25ml
Sevilla Gin
Martini Rosso
Campari  5ml Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur Pinch of sea salt One chocolate orange segment Method Pour all ingredients into an ice-filled tumbler, and stir for 15 seconds to chill. Garnish with a Terry’s Chocolate Orange segment.
10ml
20ml
15; www.guesthousehotels.co.uk The team at the No 15 bar says, “This is our festive spin on a Sidecar. Surprisingly delicate and leaves a lovely, full mouth flavour on the palate. Perfect for in between bites of Christmas pudding, and even better with the cheese course.” Ingredients 25ml lemon juice 1 barspoon orange marmalade
demerara sugar syrup
Amaretto 40ml Remy Martin Bon Accord 1738 Cognac Method Shake it all up, serve in a coupe glass, and use grated nutmeg to garnish.

GINGERBREAD ESPRESSO MARTINI

“This is a perfect after-dinner cocktail and a festive twist on a popular classic cocktail,” says Christopher Sesay of Socialize. “The creamy top reminds me of snow and the gingerbread syrup gives it a warm festive kick. The flavour feels indulgent but not too sweet (add more or less syrup depending on your taste). We recommend sipping slowly in front of an open fire whilst you wrap your presents.” Ingredients 30ml coffee liqueur

Method

Add all ingredients into a shaker and shake until thick and foamy, double strain and pour into a Martini glass. And there’s always the option to sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg for an extra bit of festive spice.

DECK THE HALLS

By Sub 13; www.sub13.net “This

74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
is
Ingredients 25ml homemade orange infused vodka 25ml Aperol 50ml cranberry juice 20ml Winter spiced syrup 10ml maraschino cherry syrup  20ml lemon juice Method This festive tipple is created by shaking the above ingredients, straining them into a tall glass over cubed ice, and garnishing with a flamed orange zest.
brand new for Christmas 2022,” says bar owner Tim Whelan. “It is inspired by an orange and clove pomander, chosen because of its striking red colour, comforting aroma, and seasonal flavour. If this drink was a feeling it would be sitting next to a warm log fire on a bitter cold December evening.”
30ml Absolut Vanilla Vodka  50ml cold pressed coffee  50ml gingerbread coffee syrup  3 coffee beans to garnish

WONKA BAR

By Raincheck; www.raincheckbar.com

“Have a sweet Christmas with this rich and creamy chocolate Martini,” says Ricky Simms, manager. “Made with a symphony of Mozart liqueurs, coconut milk, creme de cacao and Finlandia, finished with a festive sprinkle of nutmeg and a miniature Raincheck chocolate. Put this one in your letter to Santa.”

Ingredients

25ml Finlandia

20ml Mozart cream

20ml Mozart milk

20ml Mozart dark

20ml creme de cacao

50ml coconut milk

Method

Combine all the ingredients in a Boston tin, shake, double strain into a martini glass, finish with a dust of nutmeg and a Raincheck Neapolitan.

SHIRAZZLE DAZZLE

By Circo Cellar Bar; www.circobar.co.uk

“This is a festive twist on the ever popular French 75 cocktail,“ says general manager Tom Pople. “It tastes like warming berries, with a hint of effervescence from the prosecco top. Make sure you you pour the prosecco slowly so it stays fizzy, and also make sure you have a lot of prosecco in, as everyone will want more than just the one.”

Ingredients

25ml Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin

12.5ml Cointreau

12.5 Creme de Mure

25ml fresh lemon juice

15ml simple syrup

50-100ml prosecco top Flame burst orange zest garnish

Method

Shake all ingredients apart from prosecco and fine strain into Champagne saucer or coupe glass, then gently introduce the prosecco top. Grate orange zest over the cocktail, and flame burst to finish if you dare!

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

NICK HEMS on how to shine bright this season

Bookmakers have recently slashed odds from 5/1 to 4/5 that ll a st it ist as in a s s s l nit l lanning t a n a s an nig ts t t an st la sta ta l an l st lis t is ist as an all s as n a tainl a a t l ng a l t at ntl g i s all il a ing a l t s a t l t s a a n t ag n a again t it s n t a t ssing t i ss it s a l ing li an ling st lis i t is int l t s ai a l t at ll ta s as al F i a in t ll in s n t a t t a l singing it t n ig s n a is an l nig t an ing t t lati s t li s nts t at nig t it s n s ial is is an g n l t at ll last all int s as n a s sta alit isn t st ist as it s li

1. Coat – g a a is a g at i ing a an s n ist as al t is a t t i la g t it s als as t a la s n n at it t ing gg t tig tl an sta a a l la an a a it l t l ns an g ns a still n t al t int sting n t ti is t n n t at is a sta l t g t t all ing t at a tt t in l ing t as ll as an an s g t t at t it s s a n s l t l al an F a a all ll a an st lis a a

2. Jumper – n t int sts s staina ilit it ing t n lt ist as t is a in a s t ing it a it l ng it nitt it a it s nalit an l is still nit l ist ass t n t l st i in t in an a

3. T-shirt – g n a t s i t n n at t at t an a s i t g as n Fin s l g alit t i tt n t s i t in a t an n t nl ill it all t st i n t la s t la t ll als a l t ang l s a t ist as inn it t it l ing li ll is t ing t a t s st aining tt ns lt nati l g it a stan a si t s i t t sa a t inn ill si n

4. Trousers – t al a s a s a l t int st t a l F a l a sli t t s is a g at l ing alt nati t stan a ans ll n a l t i s in l al l t s s s t s a s n an als n t g t t l n s it a it st t t a t an a flatt ing l si

5. Boots – ating a s li an gg int l is a ai a l l at a ts l t l t s an t a s satil l t ing is t at an a t all a n n t ti l t s t ti s a an a l a ing t t is ill t t t stains ain an an t ing ls t at an t st ts at ill t at t

6. Socks – g ing t ing l ts isiting t li a s an s a ll ta ing s s a l t s in st in s s st lis s s n g att ns li s s s an still l ist ass it t a anta s a ing t

7. Scarf – an t ing li ll asil i itat s a s l is it an a s t g t t t t i l a as s a at a l an t at g lating t s l n t i itat s in it t s als a l a t a l t

ll al tt an il at it n s n as a gi t ll a a n n an li

8. Gloves – l l ing at t s all tails an a ni ai gl s an all a a it n ss t an t t a i at ials li s an l at t an l at s t ing a littl i nt

9. Aftershave – nis ing t ag an s fl al it s t tilis a t in t a l t t s in asil s a t s a s it i ntal n t s t n t tt n s in in t int st ng a a as t s a tt at tting t g t l ai

Give the gift of style to a loved one this Christmas, and buy them a voucher for a styling session with Nick Hems. For more: www.nickhemsstyle.co.uk

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

SHOPPING LIST

1. Thermal military jacket, £745, from Frahm Jacket; www.frahmjacket.com

2. MKI store t-shirt, £50, from John Anthony, 28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com

3. Sulphur cashmere knitted scarf, £169, from Brora, 6 Bridge Street, Bath; www.broraonline.com

4. Scotch and Soda trousers, £155, from Maze Clothing; www.mazeclothing.co.uk

5. Paul Smith alpine scene cotton pullover, £200, from Zucci, 7 Upper Borough Walls, Bath

6. Black bandana pattern crew socks by Rototo, £26, from Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bathwick, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

7. Whisky & Cedarwood cologne aftershave, £145, from Jo Malone, 6-7 Old Bond Street, Bath; www.jomalone.co.uk

8. Red Wing Chukka boots, £249, from British Shoe Company, 14 Green Street, Bath; www.britishshoecompany.co.uk

9. Harris tweed gloves, £49.99, from Suave Owl, 33 Milsom Street, Bath; www.suaveowl.co.uk

FASHION www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 77
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4 5 7
BathLife Team 01225 475800 Luxury & local The most sophisticated audience is just a call away GUIDE to SERVICES in the CITY TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE BATH LIFE TEAM ON 01225 475800 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES GUIDE airready Property Management • Established, local, fully managed holiday let company • Skilled team managing cleaning, linen, guests comms, crisis management and more • Key guardianship and care for houses that are sitting empty • Full renovation and refurbishment service • Investment property search and revenue forecasts for buyers Call us on 07906 507228 to find out more www.airready.co.uk HOME CARE JEWELLERY Nigel Dando WE BUY Gold, Silver & Platinum in any form or condition. Nigel Dando 11 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AY Tel/Fax: 01225 464013 www.nigeldando.co.uk HOLIDAY RENTALS 75+ luxury properties for lets 2 nights to 5 months Holidays – For business – Friends & family – Temporary accommodation during renovation/relocation Contact: 01225 482 225 | bhr.o ce@bathholidayrentals.com www.bathholidayrentals.com O ering 4 & 5 star holiday rentals since 2006 STONE SPECIALISTS Repairs, Restoration • Alteration of Stone Buildings New Build • Stone Cleaning • Stone Carving • Fireplaces NORTON MASONRY LTD Stonework Specialists & General Builders 8 PICKFORD FIELDS, CHILCOMPTON, RADSTOCK BA3 4XU Tel: 01761 232906 Mobile: 07901 712232 Email: nortonmasonryltd@hotmail.co.uk www.nortonmasonryltd.co.uk Over 30 Years Experience

It’s the city’s business

BATH WORKS

Santa’s little helpers

Bath BID’s Swapshop is back by popular demand

The Elf-O-Matic has returned to Bath for another round of secondhand gift giving. The Elf-O-Matic, operated by Santa’s trusty elves under the watchful eye of the man himself can be found in the Bath BID Swapshop at Abbeygate Street until 20 December.

The Swapshop allows children to bring an old toy to the Elf-O-Matic machine in Abbeygate Street. The old toy is exchanged for a token, before being upcycled by the elves for a new lease of life.Children can then exchange their token for a newly upcycled toy, spreading Christmas cheer and encouraging a sustainable

approach to the season.

“I remember clearly the clear out of my own family’s toys which happened each year before Christmas and it always seemed such a shame,” says Allison Herbert, chief executive of the at ant t n a a t at an alternative to the classic Santa’s grotto where you wouldn’t come away with yet more new lasti i ig t n its a t t tt of the ocean, where we would be creating something additional for the city which didn’t compete with our own BID levy payer members and which would highlight Bath as a brilliant city for families.”

The Elf-O-Matic machine was devised by Bath BID and brought to life by theatre and festival set designer and maker, Vix Fuller.

Over 85 per cent of the machine was made from reused, recycled, upcycled and preloved materials, including a Perspex cog that was previously used at Glastonbury Festival and doors from a former Bath nightclub. Last year it attracted over 700 hundred children through the doors, and 1,200 toys were given out and donated, with those left over at the end of the Swapshop donated to local charities.

Alison says, “New this year is the addition of Santa and further development of the performance element of the Swapshop, working with a professional performer in the role of creative director/producer. The machine has been carefully nurtured back into life with a few additions to make it even more fun.”

For more: www.welcometobath.co.uk

MEDIACLASH.CO.UK 115 www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79
THIS ISSUE >>BUSINESS CLUB DEBBIE STILL (81) >>BIZ Q&A NICKY LEWIS (83) >>AWARDS 12 TRIM STREET (85) Visit the elves in the Bath BID’s Swapshop The Elf-o-matic helps encourage a sustainable approach to Christmas

BATHWORKS

GOT TO BE IN IT TO WIN IT

Nominations are now open for the Bath Life Awards 2023. There is a huge range of categories to enter, from charity to new business, arts to hair and beauty – and so much more. It’s free to enter, and even better, you can put yourself forward for as many categories as are relevant to your work. Bath Life Awards nominations are mostly about what you have achieved in the last year, s nt ing is a g at an nat al a iti n t n a fl ti ns an s a n t nit t sit a an at s l n t a for another 365 days of grinding. If you’re feeling at a loss for where to start, there’s some great tips for putting together your best, sparkliest, most winningest nomination on the Bath Life Awards website, and a whole webinar that covers top tips, not to mention the various ways you get involved in the Awards, on our YouTube channel.

Nominations close 24 January 2023, and the ceremony is on 23 March at Bath Pavilion, with a fun Finalists and Sponsors reception in between. A glam high point in the city’s business calendar, it’s not one you want to miss. For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

OH, CHRISTMAS TREE

Bath-based youth charity Mentoring Plus is selling Christmas t s t st t n s in t ais n s its vital work.

“It’s been an extremely challenging year for us all and our youth services are in higher demand than ever with families feeling the cost-of-living crisis and reaching out to us for s t sa s i F nit ngag nt at nt ing l s sal t is signi ant an ill a a al i n t s ing a l t ntin t i activities and mentoring programmes for young people who are facing tough challenges in their lives.”

Trees are available to reserve through the Mentoring Plus website, or you can pick yours on the day from the charity’s Riverside Youth Hub, where they’ll be serving hot chocolate and the youth samba band will be on hand to play festive tunes. For more: www.mentoringplus.net

OPPORTUNITY BY THE CARTFUL

This year the Bath Christmas Market is debuting Christmas Carts. The new scheme will give 20 local micro-businesses a spot at the market for three-to-four days at a time.

“This year we will have more than 170 chalets with traders selling a remarkable range of Christmas gifts as well as fantastic local hospitality,” says Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of BANES n il ist as a ts a a g at a t s t fl gling local businesses, giving local traders the chance to showcase their goods to thousands of visitors who come to our wonderful city, which becomes extra special over the festive period.”

One of the traders taking up the opportunity is Phillippa Crowther, who will showcase her Twerton-based jewellery brand, Bramble Design. “As someone who has been visiting the Christmas Market in Bath for years to do my Christmas shopping, I am now so excited to be a part of it by selling my handmade jewellery in one of the Christmas Carts,” says Phillippa.

“I love face-to-face sales, meeting new people and soaking up the atmosphere and Bath is my absolute favourite place so I am hoping to expand my customer base and just enjoy my time there.”

For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

80 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Support Mentoring Plus and get a Christmas tree at the same time Award winning vibes!
© SOUL MEDIA
Micro-businesses like Bramble Design have the opportunity to pop-up at the Bath Christmas Market; INSET: It’s jewellery maker Phillippa Crowther’s first time at selling at the market

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

TASTE OF SUCCESS

Taste of Bath (TOB) has joined forces with Midsomer Norton-based Blisters t t n t l l nt t is Christmas season. The new partnership comes following seven years of growth for the company, which sells hampers packed with delicious local produce.

Blisters Ltd will be packing ambient products for the ready-made hampers from TOB’s Christmas Collection, before delivering them to the TOB warehouse team who will add the chilled goodies and personalised Meet the Producer cards it’s known for. www.taste-of.co.uk

CREATIVE ASSEMBLY

Bath Spa University has teamed up with Little Lost Robot CIC, BANES Council, Creativity Works and Youth Connect South West to transform an empty shop on Twerton High Street into a creative community space. Creative Twerton will breathe new life into disused spaces, hosting ‘maker’ events, exhibitions and free activities. There are plans to expand into neighbouring premises in January 2023. If you would like to get involved, volunteer or work with Creative Twerton, email Juliet@lostrobot.org. www.lostrobot.org

GIVING GIFTS

Mogers Drewett has launched a new campaign to support local foodbanks. Until 12 December, local people are invited to take donations of longlife products, cleaning products and toiletries like shower gel and deodorant t t i ist l a s t an als as a tickets, with all proceeds donated to support Bath Foodbank, Sherborne Foodbank and Wells Vineyard F an a i s ang an overnight stay at an award-winning luxury hotel in Dorset and afternoon tea at t sta at a t l t ti ts to The Bishop’s Palace in Wells – and much more besides. www.mogersdrewett.com

THROUGH THE GENERATIONS

The owner of Walcot House on doing business as a family

Debbie Still owns and runs Walcot House with her husband, Martin and sons James and Oliver. At the recent Bath Life Business Club she gave an interview about the restaurant, bar and club, working with family and how her experiences with breast cancer impacted her approach to her work life. Former owners of both The Pear Tree and The Methuen in Corsham, these days the family also run café and restaurant Mother & Wild, and recently took on Bath-based Green Street Butchers (formerly Bartlett and Sons) with another, as yet announced, business coming soon.

What makes Walcot House different in Bath’s night life scene?

Our multi-generational customer-base. They range from 25 – 65. We were inspired by the nightlife in Budapest’s ‘ruin bars’, which are totally cross generational and we thought – we have to create this in Bath. We want to make a drinking culture where n isn t s a at int ag g s a very that clear we aren’t for students – minimum age is 23 – and we’re strict about it.

You run the business with your sons – have you had any defining moments there as a family?

The biggest night for me was Saturday 7 December 2019. I started work at eight o’clock in the morning. Loads of Christmas parties in, Bath rugby were in –the day grew and grew.

It got to 1.30 in the morning and James, my eldest looked at me and told me I could go home.

What was that like?

I thought –no I can’t go home! Something might happen – no, no, no, I can’t go! And he said: ‘you can. I’ve got it. You can go’. And I looked at him and I thought – yep, I can. We’ve gone through a transition since opening in 2017. I passed that baton over. I remember walking down those stairs at quarter to two – Walcot House doesn’t normally shut till three, and then I used to do all the cashing up – and I remember just thinking – I can leave this t i t at as signi ant

Any advice for family-owned businesses?

The lovely Philip Addis from Great Western Wine told me many years ago that the best thing you can do is bring someone outside into your business, so a a nan i t t s n a ga ang having David Lindsay looking after accounts and nan sits an list ns t i as an l s move us forwards. He’s not a mediator exactly, but we do all act professionally when he’s in the room.

You’ve shared that your breast cancer diagnosis changed the way you work. Can you tell us a little more about that?

I was 34 and we were running The Pear Tree, we in t nal stag lat st il ing t adding on eight bedrooms. Oliver was a year old and as iagn s n is st i t a a s as si Ellie my daughter, who doesn’t work in the business with us, just seven years old – life was full on!

Everyone was surprised I carried on working. They used to come to The Pear Tree and I would have no hair and they would tell me to go home. One man gave my husband a hard time saying ‘what kind of man lets his wife work like this’ – really laid into him.

But actually, work, for me, was my absolute life saver.

In what ways did work help you?

It gave me a sense of focus. I didn’t want to share my experience with a room of women who have breast cancer, or at a self-help talk. For me, having to listen to 12 other stories when I could hardly cope with my own – it was not my bag. But to go to work and share it with the people that I liked and knew, people who liked me, and our customers – it was brilliant for me.

The Bath Life Business Club is a regular networking lunch at the The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa featuring a ive interview wit a rominent re in t e at siness community. The next one is coming up on 12 December with Richard Cherry from Stonewood Group. Check our social media @bathlifemag for tickets and all the latest updates.

For more: www.walcothousebath.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 81
Taste of Bath has a new fulfilment partner for this Christmas season © Debbie Still spoke at the most recent Bath Life Business Club

BIZ Q&A

Nicky Lewis

Nicky Lewis is the wellness coach and yoga teacher behind Deisie Wellness. She hosts weekly group classes and one-to-one sessions from her yoga studio overlooking the beautiful Woolley Valley on the outskirts of Bath, and bi-annual wellness retreats from the fabulous La Residencia Hotel in Mallorca.

Deisie is such a lovely business name. Is there a story behind it?

Yes! Deisie Wellness was named after our 12-year-old twin daughters, Deia and Siena.

Can you tell us a little bit about what brought you to wellness as a career...

I have an extensive background s t tn ss an alt a ing worked for Team Bath at the University of Bath for 12 years, with England Rugby, the Premier League, British Swimming, the South African

netball team, and I will be working with the Team Bath Netball Super League squad in the new year.

Has your approach changed much over the years?

More recently, I have embraced a holistic approach to health using yoga, meditation and breathwork. I like to synergise my experience of elite sport and holistic health to create an integrated and balanced approach to wellness, which is how I coach groups and individuals.

Why the different approach?

I hit the menopause at 48 and struggled with a range of symptoms. Many of my girlfriends found the menopause a challenge too. I decided to train as a yoga teacher, training in more balanced styles such as hatha, yin and restorative yoga, as my changing body craved a rest from power and ashtanga yoga, and also as a meditation teacher so t at l s a t n ts t s amazing disciplines with others.

For potential new clients, can you share what the first session with you is like?

ill is ss t s i lln ss needs of a client and design a programme to address these needs. Inevitably the programme will include elements of yoga,

meditation and breathwork, depending on bespoke needs.

Who would you say might most benefit from your services?

I strongly believe that everyone can n t ga itati n an breathwork. I have clients of all ages, gender and circumstances.

You also host wellness retreats. What are they like?

My four-day wellness retreats include a daily programme of sunrise yoga, walking, swimming, healthy eating and sunset yoga. The retreats have a super relaxed vibe and guests can enjoy as much or as little of the activities as they would like in order to restore, recuperate and recharge.

When is the next one?

It takes place 28 – 31 March 2023 at the wonderful La Residencia Hotel in Mallorca, an artistic oasis of rustic beauty perched beside the pretty village of Deià.

We’re living in a stressful time –do you have one tip people can implement today to feel better?

Stress is one’s perception of a situation. We have a choice in how we choose to respond. Choose a positive response over a negative one and this ill n t alt si all mentally, emotionally and spiritually, an t i l t n t s is g

For more: www.deisiewellness.co.uk

The wellness coach and yoga teacher on embracing a holistic approach
BATHWORKS
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“I LIKE TO SYNERGISE MY EXPERIENCE OF ELITE SPORT AND HOLISTIC HEALTH”
Nicky hosts wellness retreats at the La Residencia Hotel in Mallorca
MAKE LASTING MEMORIES AND TREAT YOUR LOVED ONES TO A FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT THIS CHRISTMAS www.beatacosgrovephotography.com beatacosgrovephotography@gmail.com @ CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABL E FROM £175

BATH LIFE AWARDS MEAN BUSINESS

The Bath Life Awards are the place to make vital business connections. Through the night itself and its shoulder events like the Finalists’ and Sponsors’ Reception, sponsors and nominees have the opportunity meet a range of dynamic businesses, creative organisations and charities – and you never know which new connection might spark an innovative partnership.

It’s efficient too – not only can companies connect face to face, but through the marketing materials right here in the magazine, the Awards’ social media channels and email newsletters – and, of course, the official Awards Showguide, distributed on the big night.

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2022

Emily Thatcher, co-owner of 12 TRIM STREET talks about the salon’s award-winning first year

Eil at an a la Arthur opened up hair an a t sal n i Street a little under two a s ag s as a la n lan i and a hideaway feel thanks t its i t t l ati n an s t ing from haircuts and styling to manicures and lash an t at nts t is as n il s i s it t st st l s g at g vibes and the friendliest service.”

What was your Awards experience like? all n al ating st a in business. It gave us chance to really appreciate at a a i in n t nl a s t a nt ti t als ing a an i s n as inn s all as an a a ing nt t a t at n a al s inspiring people.

Talk us through the ceremony... We had the best time on the night of the Awards. What an incredible event to be a part of in such a stunning venue – we were overwhelmed. We were s it t a n l a ing s t an n stag victory dance that I’m sure nobody will forget in a hurry!

Where do you keep your Award? Obviously in the window of our shop for everyone to see.

What are your winning qualities? It has been a challenging time for everyone but I think we got the recognition for growth within st a s t ing ill ntin with consistent hard work and determination. I’d like to think some of the contributing factors to winning were a result of the brand we have at s nalit an t t a t in to becoming part of the independent business community.

Was there a moment when you realised the salon was heading in the right direction? Last December we threw a party to celebrate st anni sa sal n as ll it t a i n s an a il an st i tantl ll it l al st s t as a special moment that really made us feel like we a ing st n an a at s t ing people want to be a part of.

What’s the best part about working in Bath and being part of the local business community? in ning i t t a t s

many people involved in the community that we wouldn’t have otherwise. We have had some lovely welcomes and supportive feedback. Sometimes we pinch ourselves that we have a sal n in at n nglan s st a ti l an si iti s is al a s s g ing on to be involved with.

What do you love about life in the salon? is n tt ling t an tting a ing s il s n l s a s n t l a t as ll as t at all i s l s in ating a a la a a ing t a ant to run a salon that they feel proud to work at.

Are there any frustrations?

Within our industry it’s not uncommon to be lass as its ai ss s an t a s have felt at times shame for telling people our titl a s i n I have met some incredible hair stylists with ambition and talent and the best characters who simply don’t get enough credit for the extremely hard work it takes to be successful.

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

st a is t st i tant gi it everything you’ve got and set the standard from the beginning. It’s worked for us!

Anything new in the works?

a in t ss iting i is s exciting. Being consistently busy and being able to grow the team further is exactly where we want to be.

For more: www.12trimstreet.com

BATHWORKS
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Emily Thatcher and Layla Arthur celebrating their win in style

LOCAL FOODBANKS

Mogers Drewett is launching a new campaign this Christmas to help support three foodbanks l al t t i s in at Sherborne & Wells. Sean McDonough, Managing Partner of Mogers Drewett explains, “Mogers Drewett has a long history of supporting local charities and community activities. This year, we have decided to support our local foodbanks as we can see how deeply the cost-of-living crisis is a ting niti s an all ant to help.”

From Thursday 17th November, the Mogers tt ill a ting nati ns of long-life products, cleaning products and toiletries and such as shower gel and ants an la n ing a ist as a a ti ts st st ti t an an g t at s n t ist l Road, Bath. Prizes range from an overnight stay at an award-winning luxury hotel in Dorset, afternoon tea at the 5* Bath Spa Hotel to tickets to Bishop Palace in Wells plus much more. All proceeds will go to support, Sherborne Foodbank, Bath Foodbank and

Wells Vineyard Foodbank.

Grainne Moher the manager of Bath Foodbank, one of the Genesis Trust projects said, “We are so grateful for the support of local people helping other local people who are in crisis. We are seeing more of our community needing to receive emergency food, household supplies and access to ongoing support at our Foodbank Centres. Food nati ns an nan ial s t s as t is will help us to continue to support local people in desperate need this year.”

Sean continues, “Mogers Drewett want to focus this year’s charitable activity on the food banks so we can help to support our local communities. We see this as the start of a longer-term relationship through 2023 which in addition to our Christmas campaign, will s t a its n as nati ns n ag sta t l nt at an s an work with the providers to identify additional fundraising activities into 2023.”

To learn more about the charity please visit www at ood an or or rovide a nan ia donation to Bath Foodbank, please go to www.bath.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-money/

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Mogers Drewett launch charity campaign to support local foodbanks in Bath, Sherborne & Wells
LOCAL CHARITIES AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES”
MOGERS DREWETT HAS A LONG HISTORY OF
SUPPORTING

THE BUSINESS FOR GOOD SERIES

Opportunities to make real impact in your community are always on your doorstep. Joining a board in my mid-20s shaped my career and passion for the arts into what it is today.

Despite the traditional view that boards are comprised of senior professionals with years of experience, in reality, a diverse range of skills and backgrounds are necessary to lead an organisation. As a young female trustee for Bath Artists’ Studios, I bring a breadth n l g s i as an i nt perspectives in terms of priorities, sustainable development and engaging local communities.

My Master’s in Management at the School of Management, University of Bath provided me with comprehensive management theory and business skills, complementing my undergraduate linguistics degree. I entered with career ambitions in leadership in the creative space, and to make a meaningful contribution to society. Bath and Bristol are part of a thriving arts hub, the proximity of the University to the city of Bath gave me access to its music, heritage and art, enabling balance between the course and my lifestyle. After joining the Bath Artists’ Studios board in 2019 we swiftly entered the pandemic. It was a challenging period; our artist community needed the studios for their livelihoods and a signi ant st at gi an nan ial isi ns l ngsi t anag nt sta we collectively found a way in what seemed an impossible time. We’re now looking at developing the organisation sustainably and engaging diverse communities. There’s a reason I’m still on the board: I come away from each meeting enthused. We’ve just celebrated 25 years and I’m excited for what’s next in a space supporting both established and emerging artists.

My experiences as a student undoubtedly inspired my path, working with peers from a range of backgrounds, I was enlightened by examples of positive change through insight into sustainable business practices. I continue to put what I learned into practice as a trustee and in my ‘day job’ in marketing for music charity and renowned venue, Bristol Beacon.

a iti n is a ing t n n t pursue your passions. Find your path and seek out ways to develop and challenge yourself.

I encourage young people, students and graduates to go for that board experience. You will meet interesting people who share the same desire to lead the organisation whilst also developing your network and guiding your career in a supportive environment.

Are you a graduate of the School of Management with a story to share? Connect with us: alumni@management.bath.ac.uk

Abi Millican speaks about her board experience at BATH ARTISTS’ STUDIOS and the value of board diversity as a young female trustee
#THINKAMBITIOUS SPONSORED CONTENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89
“TO ME, AMBITION IS HAVING THE CONFIDENCE TO PURSUE YOUR PASSIONS”
ABI MILLICAN board member, Bath Artists’ Studio
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BRING THE HOUSE DOWN

n Friday 4 November more than 300 of the best in the local property world came together at the Apex City of Bath Hotel to raise a glass to another year of epic achievement at the Bath Property Awards. Returning for its t a an igg t an t at Property Awards hosted by MediaClash’s Greg Ingham and broadcaster and money expert Susannah Streeter saw 20 Awards presented to a range of innovative and resilient Bath companies and individuals who have continued to shine even through the most adverse economic conditions. The Awards also featured a special g st a a an i a n a appeared for a short live Q&A with her UK host a a at a t ns at t tal a t

Oi n fl ing t ain a as a refugee. She shared with the audience about the life she is building in Bath with the support of Bath Welcomes Refugees and the government’s s ain s

The Bath Property Awards aren’t just about inning i s it s als an in al a l s a t t an nn t it t s in t s t l t niti s a tn s i s an potential deals – and even form friendships. t as a ining s a ss t it from the BPA sponsors to the Apex Hotel. On t ll ing ag s t s a a n t winners by category and the best photos from the n a g t n a a an is als Keep reading Bath Life’s regular property pages to be ahead of the game for next year’s Awards and sign up for a splendid celebration of all t ings t sin ss an at

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

© VRANCH VISUALS BATH PROPERTY AWARDS © VRANCH VISUALS
sbsdesignandbuild.com 01225 874676 info@sbsdesignandbuild.com
Susannah Streeter, Simon Jones, Cherie-Anne Baxter and Greg Harris The Bath Property Awards
returned for a t i ant t a n

ARCHITECT

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS
Sponsored by
DEVELOPMENT COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANCY Sponsored by
CASA ARCHITECTS
ROMAN BATHS ARCHWAY PROJECT, BANES COUNCIL HERITAGE SERVICES WINNER: NEWARK WORKS, TCN UK WINNER: MEA
WINNERS The judges faced some incredibly hard decisions, but after much debate, here are their choices . . .
CIVIC
WINNER:
WINNER:
CATEGORY
92 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
BATH PROPERTY AWARDS CO-WORKING SPACES CONTRACTOR Sponsored by DEVELOPER Sponsored by EMPLOYER Sponsored by FINANCIAL INTERIOR DESIGNER WINNER: RENGEN HOUSE WINNER: BUILD TWENTYTWO WINNER: LONGACRE WINNER: INTERACTION WINNERS: UNIVIDUAL WINNER: WOODHOUSE AND LAW www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 93
LETTINGS AGENT LEGAL ONE TO WATCH Sponsored by RESIDENTIAL AGENT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by RISING STAR WINNER: ASPIRE TO MOVE WINNER: GA ENERGY WINNER: HOUSE OF ST JOHN’S WINNER: GREGORYS ESTATE AGENT WINNER: ST JOSEPH’S COURT DEVELOPMENT, AEQUUS CONSTRUCTION WINNER: DAN WARBURTON, ARENA GLOBAL MANAGEMENT BATH PROPERTY AWARDS 94 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 95 SUSTAINABILITY SUPPLIERS AND SERVICES TRANSFORMATION WINNER OF WINNERS Sponsored by WINNER: STRIDE TREGLOWN WINNER: HAWKER JOINERY WINNER: THE CLORE LEARNING CENTRE AND WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE, INTEGRAL ENGINEERING DESIGN WINNER: THE CLORE LEARNING CENTRE AND WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE, INTEGRAL ENGINEERING DESIGN © VRANCH VISUALS
• Roof Replacement • Detailed Lead Work • Repairs • Flat roofing • UPVC Fascias and soffits • Solar PV Installer 01225 251458 | 07540 700908 JACKSON-DIXROOFING@OUTLOOK.COM

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS FINANCIAL WINNER 2022

Meet Unividual, winners at this year’s prestigious Awards

How did it feel to win a Bath Property Award?

Everyone will say how surprised they are but we go into these things feeling worthy winners because we work so hard and know how much value we give to people.

Where do you keep the Award?

Proudly sitting pretty in our reception.

What’s the best part about working with the property sector?

The people. We love working with others who share our values, and because of this we become a team and care deeply about each other’s businesses through the good times and the bad.

What are some of Unividual’s winning qualities?

ni i al ts t s st a s l a t the people we work with and has strong empathy skills. This motivates us, every day, to put ourselves in the shoes of others and list n t l l nan ial a i is unapproachable. We use this to shape our communications and ensure everyone feels they an t s nan ial a i n att their background, age, gender, wealth etc. For 22 years we have built up a strong reputation l all an a n t s in ist l London and soon to be Edinburgh (ssssshhhh n t t ll an n a it st

What was the key point you wanted to get across in your nomination? Financial advice has always been dominated by powerful people focusing on making each t i an s nl it clients with a minimum level of assets, often set at £100k. Firstly, ugh what does that even an at a g n n l l n t think they are rich enough or worthy enough t a a nan ial a is st advice is less expensive than you realise and once you understand what we do you will realise how we can change your life.

Unividual Sterling House, Bath, BA1 3AN 01225 427474

bath@unividual.co.uk www.unividual.co.uk

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

a ag ag a nan ial lann is an a n nt t is is s t t ti in t n t t a s We realised this 10 years ago, and set up an in s nan ial lanning a a t ing ng l in t t in st an t proof our business. Clients can now rely on us for generations to come. The average age of a Unividual adviser is 38.6, and both our younger and older clients love working with a ntl ali ssi nal s n lla ati lati ns i s at t an st selling products.

SPONSORED CONTENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 97
“ UNIVIDUAL PUTS OTHERS FIRST, CARES DEEPLY ABOUT THE PEOPLE WE WORK WITH AND HAS STRONG EMPATHY SKILLS”
Proud winners of the Financial category The Unividual team after their win at the Bath Property Awards 2022. Photo © Vranch Visuals

BATH PROPERTY AWARDS CONSULTANCY WINNER 2022

Meet MEA Construction Consultants, the winners at this year’s prestigious Awards

How did it feel to win a Bath Property Award?

We were stunned to receive the Bath Property Award for Consultancy 2022, it was completely unexpected. We’ve worked s s t is a s stan ing n stag a ing t at a gnis t g s an fl ting n at a a i in at as st t st ling t s still s ttling in t a all ing

Where do you keep the Award? t ta s i la at in Queen Square.

What’s the best part about working in the property sector?

t s iting n t s s t s t n a i s an s it its n ni s t all ng s an as i ati ns ing a a t t ss t at n i s t s all ng s an li s t s as i ati ns is a ing all t t s t is ll s t s a t st st n g ti an tal nt l ing it t is a al l as

What are MEA’s winning qualities? We pride ourselves on our approach. Despite g t aintain a s all an t s ts n t st g t n t t t s nal an t ga l ss its si g ts t sa ig stan a s i t a a a al assi n t i t ill al a s g t t a il t li at n s t n t t at n a n a l ng ti a s a a alt n l g an experience to call upon.

What has stood out for you in the past 12 months?

t s n an int sting a na igating t st i n i n nt an s ttling in t t n n al t at as all st t t us over the past 12 months is the resilience the property and construction sector has shown, t g all nging ti s it as ntin t g na i all n an is t t last a s as t n t s alls t all ng t as n a s l ti n na ling t s t t g ss an t s lt as n s antasti nst ti n

MEA Construction Consultants

26 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HX 01225 337793

southwest@meaconsult.co.uk www.meaconsult.co.uk

What do you love about your work?

t s g ing t s n li a li t n stl n t a s a t sa s it s n ing t s all satis ing t at a t t life, from an architectural concept into a fully n ti ning t n ing a la an int g al a t in t ss

How can people work and collaborate with you? n s an ail gi s a all all attend a lot of the local events, so just come an sa i a a i n l n

What should we look out for from MEA in the next year?

is s t t an t all nging a t t is a l ing a t li ing t nal as t a a inning a s F a sin ss s ti a it t ing int n s in i a ilst ntin ing t an t a an ll aintaining ial g t

SPONSORED CONTENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 99
“ OUR TEAM HAVE A REAL PASSION FOR THEIR WORK”
The MEA team are celebrating winning the Bath Property Award for Consultancy 2022 The Bath Property Award for Consultancy 2022

SCENE

THE BATH PROPERTY AWARDS AT APEX HOTEL OF BATH

HOT PROPERTY!

at s t ssi nals fl t t it at t l n t l at t at t a s is gla l n ti nt as st int nati nal a ast an in st nt anal st sanna t t an ia las i ti g ng a sts n a a a agn ti n t s l n an t a a s s ntati ns an t a a ing g s ian a a a atini a l la l n n it i i a s a n an in i

100 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Sam Daniels and Amy Grant There’s nothing like a winner’s group hug Charlotte Jackson, Romina Fuenzalida Fuentes, Richard Paige, Adrian Biles-Wood, Will Clark, Andy Allsop Jones, William Kennett, Denise Jackman, Doug Miller and Aaron Tagdiri Susannah Streeter Photos by Vranch Visuals Nick Woodhouse Jo Lloyd Hayley Blacker and Cherie-Anne Baxter The local property sector came together to celebrate each other’s achievements xxx James Butter, Caroline Baxter, Will Maslin, Leo Richmond and Rachel Catlin Daniel Cheng
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 101
Matthew Cox and Daniel Murphy Harry Robinson Richard Pearce, Harry Robinson and Karen Weston Alec Piercy, Samantha Jenkins and Gary Fisher Hayley Blacker and Cherie-Anne Baxter Daniel Murphy Prize-winning moments... Hannah Skalleberg
102 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Susannah Streeter, Nick Lewis, Dan Blower and Tom Blower Louise Harvey, Carl Harfield and Amy Grant Mark Wiltshire, Mathieu Wildman, Chris Brooks, Samantha Jenkins, Alec Piercy, Stephen Wiliams, Gary Fisher, James Dean and Sam George Simon Jones, Cherie-Anne Baxter and Greg Harris

The

Applause for the winners

The programme featured a list of everyone involved in the Awards from the finalists to the sponsors William Kennett, Harry Robinson, Mark Saint and Denise Jackman Everyone was happy to see their peers succeed
www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 103
Awards provided a great chance to network Congratulations all round Holly Glover, Claudia Butler, Steph Dodds, Kate Griffiths, Greg Ingham, Grace Goodall, Liam Jones, Freya Cunningham and Olivia Amey The Apex provided a delicious Awards lunch
• 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 Braysdown Lodge, Woodborough, Peasedown St John, Bath BA2 8LN We are passionate about providing the highest standards of customer care, showcased in an exceptional review platform and with our team of all employed fitters offer a quality of traditional care and regard that in our day and age is often hard to find.  We have an extensive customer base of both domestic and commercial clients. We offer all flooring specialities, from luxury vinyl tile, design floors, wood, carpet, vinyl, safety flooring and artificial grass LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS WITH OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE Accredited by Which?NCIF and CHAS Advanced Visit our store to view the full range! Simon Davis Flooring Limited Unit 1 Old Mills Industrial Estate, Paulton BS39 7SU 01761 410779 info@simondavisflooring.co.uk www.simondavisflooring.co.uk Shop Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9.30am - 5.30pm Saturday 10.00am - 3.00pm CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTE!
Why renovation is best planned from the ground up
The team at Artisans of Devizes favour terracotta for its tactile, rustic appearance

We talk a lot about furniture, wall coverings and t s n at n ati n t at a t fl ing n ati n s it s s as i n t att nti n ta t t s a it l al ts ing t ing t n s t s staina ilit an n fl ing an sa n in t l ng n

START FROM THE GROUND UP

Fl ing is ssi l t st i tant isi n in a n ati n sa s an ssa a tt n ing i t al s ialist a l a t is t n ati n an ta s t st a an is li l n t la g in st nts t it ig t an t ing ls ill ll t nl t at t l t s a it it s li l t t a t t at s it t l ng st in t a s st n ati n t a a n n is l ing t ll t ing t t s t sta t t fl ing in a t it ig t it ig t t n tail t is t l t t nag at a s t alit til st n fl s l last a li ti n s a is it ati i t at l a ing st n an tisans i s al a s a is t at a st n fl st s ita l its a li ati n an n lai li nts ill st l t a n it a t all a ss i s an nit a asi t ang t n t lin s s t ing a a ta l t at an ang it st l as g t g t i a int t n stalgia in s i l astal g an t a st ti i t t s t g int i s in

Trending topics

t s all a t s staina ilit i sl t l ing at a lai fl n t at ll a s t st n i t l ng t i a t fl s is a t n t ag s t a ntin ing s i t t a st s in sting in fl ing t at s l ng it an s staina ilit sa s t a i t i t s Fl ing ns s a in asingl a a t i ing i s a t t n i n nt anti i at s staina l fl ing ti ns s as nat al lant as a ts l an sisal t g ing in la it

MATERIAL WORLD att t alit t t s an nit a fl ing i ill ag n n t st st lis s a n s l a i a l n ati n isast s ing s a i an n t st it all nlin t int a s an s t t t an alit t sa l s a t a t g t a tt i a t ll l an l in t n g t t ant t g n t al a a l stat nt

The classic look it s a n t al as a t it s a t g ng it a ti l fl ing ings a t l gan an a s ns ll ing t a t at n t fl ing an at sa s an ssa at a l a il s an i itati n fl s an a t l li t t an t at an t ing l s t t sa l it n t in t its l als an t ing t sa s ns l ti l ssn ss t at a al fl s att a i t il Fl ag s st s lling fl ing is an a ngin lan t s att la an as an n nis a a an i i s a a an int sting t ni sall ati l as s in i t all an in t

Go statement t al isn t n ant t a a s las it it til s a tta as n t st at ials t at it an l its ta til sti a a an sa s a is at tisans i s a tta t n a i s in l gi ing an iginal nis t t fl s t is in i l a l an a a ing an is s ita l s it n fl ating an n all t st l st n it a t t g it it

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 107 FLOORING
“If you want to make a splash, do it with tiles”
ABOVE: Statement flooring from Artisans of Devizes; BELOW: Nothing beats a real wood floor from Broadleaf

NOT IN THIS ECONOMY

We’re all worried about our ever-increasing heating bills – but with t ig t i fl ing an l ing t t at i t s t ng fl ing an a nt at l ss as ig as nt t n t ani it s as n g t t lains a t s a nat al ins lat s it l at n ti n al s s a il t a t it its illi ns tin s t a s ai in asing t al ins lati n an l ing l a t s n t st a ting t g s li fl s l ti ns an i at i lati n all ing at t ass t g t it a ig t al ass an la inat at ials an signi antl s t at fl t ati ns t an s t t i a ilit t a s an st at is a nat al ins lat ag s att at il Fl an al ng it i ing a t al lan t al ng a s a als as g s n ti s n ani all t a s li fl ai as an la l fl a s it an als t n t a t t an t i t ai tig tn ss a i ill sa n t ating a a li an an la ngin fl it in list il ings t a s an it is t at t st n ts a alis

YOU HAVE BEEN READING

Artisans of Devizes, Stonebridge House, Nursteed Road, Devizes; www.artisansofdevizes.com

Broadleaf Bath, 134-136 Walcot St, Bath; www.broadleaftimber.com

Tile & Floor, 1 Mile End, London Road, Bath; www.tileandfloor.co.uk

Virtuoso Flooring, 10 Moorland Road, Bath; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

108 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk FLOORING
CLOCKWISEFROMRIGHT: Wood flooring like this from Tile & Floor can provide natural insulation; terracotta flooring from Artisans of Devizes is long-lasting and durable; sisal carpets are a big hit for their sustainability credentials, Virtuoso Flooring have learned
“It’s all about sustainability”

Matilda Walton s nts a s t a a il

FTa list ing l la sits n t l a t ans n n t n t n sl s t it it n ig s t a ti l g t i i alist t t n s an n s an n a all l i a ss t it an n n at t is ti a ill inat t gl t s a ling ist as lig ts in t istan t a ss fl s ing l la s a a ti l an as a n n s t t nsi an s at ti is nt its nt i s it as t at gian ts nt a l l tting t t g n s n s t s lig t an n t t s g t a t i at s li t att a ti ni ing an sas in s an s tt s gi t la an n nia l a t at s a s t its t nsi ist a ati n s a s a ss fl s sta ting it a s a i s nt an all a at t at

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

makes any home feel immediately grander, and its inhabitants and visitors stand a little taller; a space that seems to demand a person to make an entrance in the biggest sense. Stepping into the home beyond, occupiers n t s l s s il li ing s a t agni nt a ing t t it a ing at t t s a t gli s s t t s an i s n l ll s an ga a ss the city as it slips through the seasons – cosy in a haven a it all l t at n t ga n l l t s n more living space in the garden room, and the stylish it n as n g an islan an ta l it t s a in t ining n i is accessed via sliding doors giving an open-plan feel. The demarcation of spaces gives a luxurious atmosphere, harking back to the formal dining rooms of the period ing l la st a t li n t fl s a ll n t s including the beautiful dual-aspect principal bedroom it g g s i s i t it t s n t ing li at ing t s n at n an a l

ning sa an a in it a t a t s a all ll ti n s l an n it an n s it an i al g st perhaps. The multitude of bedrooms and living space in inati n it t l ati n a ing l la an ideal spot for a family looking to make the move to t it n a n g t t n t l il n t s l it is als in al ing istan s g at l al s ls in l ing t t n s i a ings an ings a at an t al High School.

Finally, the gardens – one of the luxuries of ans n li t a l nti l an t an s t t g t l lan s a ing t nt n s quite manageable. In addition to the pretty planting at the front, the rear garden features a summer-ready t a an la n a a l s n l s planted borders and even a vegetable patch. all t a n s t in an a ang al s t a t l g t at ill n a all t is t i n

HOUSE

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 111
PROPERTY
NUMBERS Price £2.25m Square foot 3,103 Bedrooms 5 Savills Bath, Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath; www.savills.co.uk

FOR THE HOME

ASPECT WINDOW STYLING

Inspiration for windows. Based in the heart of Bath, Aspect Window Styling are suppliers of top quality shutters, blinds of all types, curtains, poles, and awnings. Visit their showroom for inspiration an a i t sta n t t ans your windows into something gorgeous. Full design, as ing an tting s i Tel: 01225 469559 www.aspectwindowstyling.co.uk

WOOLF INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE &

DESIGN create unique, client-focused contemporary and traditional interiors, valued for their individual, beautifully tailored characterful design. With 25 years of expertise delivering space planning, detailed design, procurement, art curation and project management. An award-winning practice with studios in Bath & London, WOOLF are accredited designers of historic, period, listed houses and hotels. Tel 01225 445670; woolfinterior.com

MENDIP FIREPLACES BATH

at s l a ing la n gas i n an fl s ialist F lassi t nt a n t to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, a as l s a t an t ast t in t or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, at in o@mendi re a es at o Tel: 01225 722706; www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk

NEXUS OF BATH is a Bath based family business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk

VIRTUOSO FLOORING

ing st lis inn ati fl ing s l ti ns t t the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso l t la g st t a i n tt s in at Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream fl int a alit all n a ns ltati n visit their new show room on Moorland Road. To en ire emai in o@virt osofloorin o or a 01225 972715; www.virtuosoflooring.co.uk

JENNIFER MOSSE DESIGN STUDIO

A bespoke, tailor-made, client-focused interior design consultancy service based in Bath. Specialising in residential interior design and providing a truly personal s i a a t t a li nt s n s nni s ni style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, fl ting li nts li st l s an s naliti s Tel: 07738289189; www.jennifermosse.com

CLAIR STRONG INTERIOR DESIGN

Clair Strong Interior Design is a boutique, creative company based in Bath, providing a wide range of services t si ntial an ial li nts t li of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as ll as t ls s ts l s s an t ial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 426905; www.clairstrong.co.uk

BATH KITCHEN COMPANY

Based in the heart of Bath and specialising in bespoke, handmade kitchens, Bath Kitchen Company become personally invested in every kitchen they design and build. It’s about attention to detail at every stage – creating a beautiful space that enhances the way you live. ort arade i din s at Tel: 01225 312003 www.bathkitchencompany.co.uk

SCHMIDT BATH

Providing bespoke kitchens and made-to-measure interiors across the Bath area for more than 35 years, i t at s l s l ti ns t at a a l i s it a i at in s tting t a your project will be completed to the highest standards. Visit their showroom to see the latest ranges and more at t an 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com

SPONSORED CONTENT www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 113
Our local businesses are poised and ready to help with all your home needs for Winter

done the choreography for the animated film Chicken Run”

GRAEME PUCKETT

Originally from Southampton, Graeme studied for his degree at the Bath Academy of Art, and then became a freelance illustrator. Him and his wife Ann (pictured above), who live in Fairfield Park, were the first ever UK Lindy Hop champions. Now they both perform all over the world and teach dance under the name Hoppin’ Mad. During the pandemic, Graeme wrote his debut novel Which Would You Rather?

The first thing I can actually remember drawing was a lifesize portrait of Noddy Holder. Having enjoyed painting his face, I found that his checked suit took

hours and hours to paint. It was a lesson well learned. Work smaller an aint t ing st st

I can’t say I liked the school bit. I was conscientious in pretty much everything except Latin and geography in which I was a conscientious objector.

While I was at art college, I had brief holiday jobs as a portrait artist at Butlins and a dustman in Southampton. Being a dustman was quite good fun because it was a legitimate way to get dirty and stinky, and nis i a

I worked as a freelance illustrator until computers

came along and ruined everything. Art directors knocked out images themselves rather than commissioning illustrators after that.

With my partner Ann, we have twice won UK swing dance titles along with 20 or so other awards. We’ve also had some great jobs like doing the choreography for the animated l Chicken Run.

One of my highlights as a caricaturist was Bob Hope autographing a caricature I’d done of him. It looks like he’s itt n st is s i

One of the worst moments was at a rock and pop auction and I was trying to draw an ageing Dave Dee of Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Titch fame. However he wouldn’t keep still and admittedly the portrait was pretty bad. As I left, Dave Dee loudly called out after me: “YOU C***!”.

My biggest achievement has to be winning the UK Lindy Hop title – being the best in the whole country at anything is obviously an achievement.

My novel Which Would You Rather? is a very black comedy set in Bath and features an incompetent psychopath, murders, arson, theft, forgery, and plenty of political incorrectness. There is a scene set in the Marlborough Tavern and another in Shakespeare Avenue. The RUH, Lansdown boot sale, and the Bath Women’s Aid charity shop also feature.

We hold regular swing dance classes at Bath’s Weston Methodist Church hall every Tuesday evening, and have new beginners every week at this drop-in class.

For more: www.hoppinmad.co.uk

The author, swing dancer, swing dance teacher, and occasional painter on being the best, and annoying former pop stars
BATH LIVES 114 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
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Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.