Bath Life – Issue 490

THE WRITE WAY AN APARTMENT

DESTINED FOR CREATIVITY

VILLAGE LIFE RETIREMENT

HOMES WITH COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Never apologise for bringing or sending flowers if you isit me I lo e it I lo e them all from the twine string tied bunch of wild flowers to the huge bou uet that can barely fit through the door rom the tiny little cactus who loo s a little arched to the wobbling rubber lant who’s definitely going to need lo e and su ort ec e en if you bring me the cello hane wra ed garage forecourt saddos wrong as it may be you’ll still ha e done alright in my eyes hether it’s for birthdays Christmas you’ e o ed o er for your tea Mother’s Day any day flowers really can say it all nd in this bursting with ibrancy issue we’ e got a lot of floral going on there’s Mother’s Day bou uet suggestions starting on age on age there’s how to ensure your wedding flowers are green and on age there’s a few local suggestions of where to see those snow white snowdro beauties whose a earance herald the start of s ring ring is also a good time to enture out and start wal ing again so why not follow our guide o er on age It’s a olburne Museum suggested wal ing tour of the city based on some of the famous ortraits in their collection e also call in at one of ath’s newest restaurants The Gaff o er on age tal rhubarb rhubarb rhubarb with erity Genco age chat to forager e traordinaire and chef lise riccolani age ahead of her Trowbridge Town all a earance and on age our resident columnist Da id latman onders retirement could it be la ing around eating cheese and si ing wine are in the o ng? r is it he’s already doing that?

Follow us on Twitter @BathLifeMag Instagram @bathlifemag

SARAH MOOLLA

© LOUIS SMITH; WWW.STUDIOWHISK.CO.UK

Revolution Number 9 by Victoria Topping, available through Modern ArtBuyer; www.modernartbuyer.com

COVER Junglist by Victoria Topping available through Modern ArtBuyer; www.modernartbuyer.com

WEDDINGS

12 SUSTAINABLE WEDDINGS 17 tips

THE ARTS

FOOD & DRINK

SHOPPING

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 Victoria Bond, Nic Bottomley, Madeleine Boylan George, David Flatman, Emma Ingledew, Paul Marland and Helena Smith Parker 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.

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Spring DO DROP BY!

Snowdrop season has arrived. Usher in springtime with a snowdrop walk at nearby National Trust gardens. Dyrham Park is a must visit, with more than half a dozen varieties to spot including the Galanthus atkinsii, which blooms much earlier than other kinds. Most of the snowdrops at Dyrham are entirely naturally occurring on the land, with a little

help from the annual snowdrop dividing sessions carried out by the garden teams to encourage growth. lightly further afield you can also enjoy beautiful snowdrop walks at Stourhead in Wiltshire, where you’ll find the world famous gardens carpeted with the retty white flowers

For more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

World Heritage Day TIME TRAVEL

Bath is celebrating World Heritage Day on 4 March with free event at the Guildhall. There’s lots of see, including historic s a related ob ects and isitor books from the Roman Baths collection, and even the chance to make a virtual visit to the Mineral Water Hospital as it was in 1742. You can also get crafty with the Museum of Bath at Work and try out plasticine modelling, and learn how plasticine changed our understanding of creativity and sculpture; you can try on costumes and explore the lives of the medical men commemorated in Bath Abbey; make a scented body scrub to take home – and so much more.

“After three years of virtual celebrations, it’s great that we can mark World Heritage Day 2023 with a free event that’s open to everyone,” says Kevin Guy, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council. “This year’s celebrations will focus on Bath as a spa destination, and the city’s rare second inscription as a World Heritage Site as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. We hope lots of people will come along and enjoy a fun day out while discovering more about our city’s amazing heritage.”

For more: www.bathworldheritage.org.uk

Theatre CURTAIN UP

Theatre Royal Bath has announced another exciting season of shows for the spring. Coming soon, the critically acclaimed, smash hit supernatural thriller, 2:22 – A Ghost Story will open its first tour right here in ath rom the writer of hit C podcast The Battersea Poltergeist it’s a s ine tingling e erience during which ghosts may or may not appear…

Also coming up is gripping courtroom thriller The Verdict, which sees washed u lawyer ran Gal in gi en one last chance to redeem himself a fast aced wise crac ing retelling of H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine; a beautifully realised rendition of Guys and Dolls by Bath Operatic and Dramatic Society; a new stage musical of Roman Holiday, for which Theatre Royal will host the UK premiere; Harry Hill and Steve Brown’s acclaimed new musical Tony! [The Tony Blair Rock Opera]; and the return of international smash hit musical Six – among many others. For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

There are more than half a dozen varieties of snowdrop at Dyrham Park

The Time Machine starring Dave Hearn, Amy Revelle and Michael Dylan comes to Theatre Royal 24-29 April

©NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES JAMES ELEY

Dress the part this World Heritage Day

© MICHAEL WHARLEY

THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS

An ode to wistful glances through windows that beckon us inside...

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD

17 ways to have an eco-friendly wedding

omething old, something new, something borrowed, something… green? These days we’re looking for ways to make every area of our life more sustainable, and this is especially true when it comes to weddings. We want to create a day to remember that doesn’t have a negative impact on the planet.

Here, we turn to our local wedding experts to find out their to ti s for a sustainable wedding day.

1Pick a local venue

The first thing that cou les can do to make their wedding more sustainable is to pick a venue that guests are able to travel to without a car,” says Victoria Gray, registration o cer for ath and orth East Somerset Registration Service. “The beauty of ath is that you ha e e erything on your doorstep and many of our approved premises, including the Registration Suite at The Guildhall, are easily accessible by public transport. If guests are able to travel to your ceremony by train, bus or even a park and ride, this will help to minimise carbon emissions and means there’s less need for a designated driver.”

2Look for credentialssustainability

What are the venue’s sustainability credentials? This can mean accreditations, like at Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, the luxurious eco-friendly hotel in Malmesbury which can boast EarthCheck Silver accreditation, which robustly measures its carbon-reducing actions, and awards for its sustainable ethos, including a Green Michelin Star for sustainable gastronomy. It can also loo li e local hotels li e ath based eighton ouse outi ue Guesthouse which banish single use lastic use local roduce and offer proximity to nearby venues to cut down travel.

3Keep it Fairtrade

When it comes to the rings, opt for airtrade gold and conflict free diamonds says ath based eweller ody Cory, “This ethical approach supports the miners to receive a fair price for their precious metal and improves working conditions. We also make sure diamonds are ethically sourced from conflict free su liers in compliance with the United ations Resolutions

In addition to Fairtrade, look for the Kimberly Process, which reduces the flow of conflict diamonds and the o Dirty Gold cam aign which establishes standards for the extraction of gold from responsible mining sources.

CHARLIE BRITZ/ WWW.CHARLIEBRITZ.COM

Opt for paper confetti over plastic; INSET: Jody Cory rings use fair trade gold and conflict-free diamonds

Your ‘something old’

“We have seen a growing trend towards vintage pieces, which is not only sustainable but adds an extra sentimental touch to beloved items,” says Ahilen ChavezHernandez, brand manager for jewellery designer Nicholas Wylde. “For example, you can reuse your grandmother’s ring. With some light repairs or resizing, cleaning and repolishing (and, in some cases, replating) – voila! It’s ready to go with you for another lifetime.”

“Our bridal customers appreciate that we handcraft their jewellery here in Bath, using recycled precious metal and conflict free diamonds Rhiannon amilton owner of jeweller Honey Willow, agrees.

5Move with the seasons

“I often get a calls, for example, from someone desperate to source fresh cut sweet peas for December. If any of you know Rum elstilts in that’s who I loo li e as I hop and fume around the studio,” says Fiona Haser Bizony of Electric Daisy Flower Farm. “Sweet peas in December are just wrong, wrong, wrong.

“If they were grown in the UK they would need to be in a heated greenhouse to ‘force’ them into flower wrong nd if they were grown on the other side of the world in warmer climates they would need to be flown here so they might stay fresh. Again, wrong. The magic of sweet eas is their fleeting existence. Only available in high summer, their delicate fragrance is evocative and nostalgic because it is so seasonal.

“My plea for 2023 is that we can truly work with the seasons. Weddings are so much about sharing the moment in time when two people get to celebrate their love for one another – let the flowers at the ceremony s ea for nature and the earth and where we come from.”

6Say no to foam

ind a florist who uses sustainable techniques to create their arrangements,” says nna ambert e ent florist with Pi loral tudio This means no floral foam as it isn’t recyclable and breaks down into micro lastics ideally you want to find someone who uses as little single-use plastic as possible. Sometimes referred to as sustainable mechanics – metal frames, chicken wire, moss and even twigs all provide reusable or biodegradable bases for arrangements. Even small things such as delivering your bouquet wrapped in tissue paper rather than cellophane all helps reduce waste.”

© JENNIFER JANE PHOTOGRAPHY/ WWW.JENNIFERJANEPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

“My plea for 2023 is that can we truly work with the seasons”

LEFT: Nicholas Wylde jewellery is part of the Kimberly Process scheme; BELOW: Hamswell House is a beautiful venue with eco credentials; BOTTOM: Have a local Bath wedding to cut down travel © KITTY CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY/ WWW.KITTYCLARKPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Go for a pre-loved wedding look

Small weddings are a great way to cut your carbon footprint

“We love the idea of leaves as confetti for autumn”

7Say no to single use

Re ur osing your flowers from one art of your day to the ne t is the erfect way to use less says Issy atts head florist and owner of i ild y ta ing arrangements from your ceremony to your rece tion you are reusing erfectly fresh blooms as well as creating more of a floral im act at each stage of your wedding ou could also as your florist to bunch your flowers into mini bou uets for your guests to ta e home and en oy after the wedding gi ing them a new lease of life meaning they aren’t going straight on the com ost

8Do yourself a favour

lot of cou les seem to ha e already done away with fa ours as a way to ee waste and cost down says ath based wedding hotogra her Charlie rit Guests ne er notice and there won’t be a load of wra ing and discarded gifts left on tables when guests forget them while they’re staggering to their ta is at the end of the night ame goes for wedding gifts if you don’t need hysical gifts then as eo le for a donation to your honeymoon fund or similar

9Your ‘something borrowed’

ire rather than buy says Ru ert egge owner of amswell ouse an award winning wedding enue in the Cotswolds This goes for decoration and of course tableware t amswell our recommended florists all ha e a range of table and enue decorations which can be hired for the day mi ed and matched and ada ted to your ersonal ision The caterers’ tableware is all hired in and reused throughout the season

10Incorporate pre-loved treasures

Rather than buying e erything new for your day thin about what re lo ed items could hel your day be more sustainable hat might you be able to find on intage mar ets or online e ay and aceboo Mar et lace are your friends say o hie rin ans and loyd ans wedding hotogra hers of e re ound Is there anything you already ha e an abundance of at home you could incor orate into your day? Maybe you’re biblio hiles that could decorate your day with your rettiest boo s or if you’re wine lo ers maybe the bottles you’re left with after your riday night wine dates could become your candle holders tart collecting or gathering Thin ing about what you might already ha e is a great way to be sustainable whilst also sa ing and wea ing your ersonality and story into your wedding too If you need to am lify your collection thin who else might be able to hel or our own wedding we collected gin bottles for our flowers with the hel of The Gri n Inn and The Gin ar

BELOW: Pip Floral Studio’s sustainable arrangements don’t use floral foam;

BOTTOM: MUA Rose Forrest works with biodegradable and reusable tools when she can

The romantic orangery and gardens of award-winning Hamswell House make the ultimate setting for your wedding.

You will be surrounded by 50 acres of gardens and private land with breath-taking panoramic views over the Hamswell valley. Yours will be the only marquee wedding held that weekend, so it is truly, exclusively yours. And you will have access to the marquee the day before for set-up and styling. No corkage charge.

© Leah Marie Photography

© Christophe Bourgeois Photography

© Christophe Bourgeois Photography

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Decorate tables with vintage finds; cruelty-free make-up is a must; Wizz & Wild florist recommends reusing arrangements from the ceremony for the reception; consider what you already have at home for creative table decorations

11Ditch the confetti

“It is one of those fun wedding moments that we love. It’s celebratory, everyone gets involved and they make for such oy filled hotogra hs add o hie rin and loyd There are so many o tions for biodegradable confetti. You could embrace a natural feel some of our cou les ha e ic ed dried flowers and bird seed and we lo e the idea of leaves as confetti for autumn, or our fa ourite for hotogra hs biodegradable a er confetti discs The discs are made from recycled a er and com ostable and whether you choose these or natural confetti, you’re o ting against traditional confetti which can ta e years to decom ose

12Consider what’s cooking

Choose a caterer who is eco aware says Ru ert egge owner of award winning wedding venue Hamswell House. “All our referred caterers at amswell not only roduce delicious food but try to do so with the minimum eco im act They are all locally based and use local su liers for their ingredients whene er ossible ere in the West Country we are blessed with some of the finest roduce a ailable anywhere so not only does the food have lower food miles, but is usually fresher and better

13Cut down your wine miles

Consider nglish ineyards for your wedding wines says ucy Ross events manager at Whatley Manor. “We wor with some e cellent su liers and our Gusbourne nglish s ar ling wine has won many industry awards and will delight your guests. We work with a number of local drin s su liers including a ling irits who ha e created climate ositi e od a and gin s art of the wedding celebration we can showcase our Citrus Dro Coc tail using a ling od a or we are ha y to create a bes o e wedding coc tail

14What’s in your make-up bag?

I use bamboo biodegradable s oolies biodegradable and com ostable bags li brushes that can be disinfected and reused, lus I car share where er ossible says hair and ma e u artist Rose orrest I ersonally ride myself on high end finishes for my clients and in my it you can find brands li e NYX, Kiko and Beauty Pie – all ethical and ea ing unny a ro ed which ensures they are cruelty free and do not sell their roducts in countries li e China that re uire roducts to be tested on animals by law.

© CHARLIE BRITZ/ WWW.CHARLIEBRITZ.COM

© RUBY WALKER/ WWW.RUBYWALKERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

“Another brand that stands out and one which I incorporate into my kit is ELF. To uote them they are the first beauty company to have a third-party manufacturing facility airtrade Certified’ They are publicly committed to 100 per cent clean beauty, restricting over 1,600 ingredients, and have eliminated one million pounds of excess packaging since the inception of Pro ect nicorn’ their mission to become more sustainable. This is all as well as being Leaping Bunny approved.”

15Keep it small

“Guest lists are a sticking point for a lot of couples, and Covid really saw a divide in couples who either wanted to hold out for the big party or happily had an excuse to have a much more intimate day,” says wedding photographer Charlie Britz. “Micro weddings are definitely here to stay and with less eo le comes less waste, less travelling – and maybe a little bit more money to spend on that o en bar a ing a smaller wedding isn’t for everyone, but not inviting hundreds of people to your wedding can mean you have the money to be a bit more selective with vendors, food and venues.”

16Pre-loved is best

“Go for a second-hand wedding dress or suit,” says Paolo Ferla, wedding photographer with Future Proof Photography. “Vintage shops, charity shops, eBay, and even Facebook Marketplace can be great sources for a second hand outfit for the big day ea e plenty of time to track down your dream look and remember, the hunt is all part of the fun.”

17Keep it manageable

“My advice would be to not put too much pressure on yourself,” says Victoria Gray registration o cer for ath and North East Somerset Registration Service. “Remember, the very fact that a couple is looking into ways to make their wedding more sustainable is to be a lauded There’s no such thing as a perfectly ethical and sustainable wedding, and even making those small changes is a big step in the right direction. Plan early if you can, leave room for manoeu res when things don’t uite go to lan et others hel you when they offer and ask for help when you need it. Be calm even when it seems overwhelming; talk together, plan together and enjoy the adventure of creating one of the most beautiful and important days of your life. Laugh lots and smile it’ll be a great day n

ABOVE: Incorporate your personality into your table set up with pieces that reflect you life; BELOW: Hair and make-up artist Rose Forrest uses sustainable and eco-friendly brands

“Micro weddings are definitely here to stay”

© JO HANSFORD/

BATH SPA HOTEL

Bath Spa Hotel is a truly romantic venue for your special day and there are many stunning backdrops for your wedding photos, both indoors and in our beautiful ga rdens. Our wedding suites can comfortably host up to 120 guests during your celebration - or enjoy a summer wedding in our gardens, where guests can sip Champagne after an elegant outdoor ceremony.

Please contact Camy on specialevents.bathspa@macdonald-hotels.co.uk or 01225 476831 to book your appointment.

Sydney Road, Bath BA2 6NS | 0344 879 9106 | www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/bath

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

SMARTY DRY CLEANING

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Smarty, Keynsham 2 Charlton Road, Keynsham, Bristol BS31 2JA 01179 864878

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Discount code: BATHLIFE5

Honey Willow is a Bath family-run jewellery business that handcrafts meaningful jewellery to order for loved ones and life’s milestones.

Mother of the Bride GiftMother Daughter Pearl Necklace £85.00 GBP

Discover elegant jewellery for the bride, bridesmaids, mother of the bride and groom. Visit the shop on Pulteney Bridge.

8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AX www.honeywillow.com

Opening Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm. Sunday, 11am–4pm

A ention Business Owners and Directors

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

Work in progress

He may not be a workaholic, but Flats realises he’s not the shy and retiring type either

What a nice idea retirement is. I thought this for the few seconds after my lovely mate Richard Bertinet (the baker with the magic hands) had slapped me on the shoulder, laughing and sco ng at the same time assuring me: “You never retire, mon ami.”

Sadly I think he’s right. Some people are simply destined to retire quietly and some are not.

The whole notion of waking up every single day and wondering what to do, but knowing that nothing whatsoever must happen before you’ e had your toast and coffee delights me It delights me because I’ve always regarded myself as a bit lazy. Either that or being told repeatedly that I’m a bit lazy has sunk in and become fact I most definitely am not a self-starter; I cannot remember a single time when this column has been filed on time so the thought of starting, building and running

my own business is about as alien to me as having a ponytail. But when there is a lot of work to do, I do a lot of work. So maybe I’m somewhere in the middle.

nyway while the idea of loafing about for decades appeals to a large part of me, I also feel confident that ha ing nothing to do would get rather dull rather quickly. I guess having a degree of purpose is important to the point of being fundamental to human beings, otherwise we might have achieved bugger all in all this time.

There are the very fortunate (and generally deserving) few who sell one business or another, trouser an industrial amount of cash, and plan luxury holidays and house moves and car purchases by way of keeping busy, but that’s not most people. And even then, I think that could quickly get old.

I like to think I’d be a good retiree. I’d eat well, read some books, potter about outside, and eat well again. I’d sip some nice wine,

visit mates, and be there for my kids. But what about the other eight hours of the day?

Far more likely is that I become my father. He’s nearly 80, he works about six days a week, and that’s only because he’s cut down. My work is far more intermittent than his (he has a vocation; I do a bit of this and a bit of that and at some point will likely have to think of something more sustainable). Some folks squirrel money away, live well within their means, and don’t take risks. Then they retire and, well, continue not to do anything too mad nd that’s fine that’s great but some people aren’t wired up like that.

This week I have literally forced my wife to acce t a new car othing flash she flatly refused to have a brand new one and made me go second hand but our ids literally do not fit in her tiny motor They’ll barely fit in the new one to be honest, but if I’d gone any bigger it simply would have been rejected. As it is, she isn’t over it yet. Meanwhile I’m on the verge of buying yet another extra car that I do not need. It will, though, bring me extreme amounts of pleasure, so to me it’s worth it.

None of these cars will assist me in achieving a relaxed retirement, and neither will my e tensi e fleet of children Maybe I should start getting sensible and maybe I should stop buying things, and having nice dinners out every now and then, and paying an extra few quid to attend a gym I actually like, and treating my kids by slipping them the odd secret tenner for a trip to town. Then I’d have more money saved up for my old age, at which point I think I’d wish I’d given it more of a craic when I was young.

That’s my thinking anyway. Big Rich the king of croissants was right: eat like a king and keep on trucking.

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on itter da id at an and nsta d at an

“The thought of starting, building and running my own business is about as alien to me as having a ponytail”

SCENE

THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH

ROUND OUR GAFF

Brand new Milsom Place restaurant

The Gaff launched in anuary with a buzzing event that saw the restaurant packed to the rafters. Hosted by the restaurant’s founders, Dan and Danielle, guests were given a sneak peek into the weekly changing menu with delicious canapés, and a chance to sample the drinks list at the bar.

Turn to page 48 for our review.

CHIN CHIN

Alide Hire Services hosted a wine tasting at The Beckford Bottle shop along with David Flatman. It was one in a series of events Alide will host throughout the year, all with the theme of good food, good chat and tasty drinks with their friends, customers, suppliers and their own team.

The night included an introductory drink, a small plates dinner and then a wine tasting led by Travis and Gemma of the Beckford Bottle Shop.

Photos by Betty

www.bettybhandaribrandphotography.com

Cameron Selway, Aidan Burns and Annie Kelly

Nick Lewis, David Flatman and Harry Burt

Guests enjoyed a wine tasting

Becky Rogers, Marjan Van Gelderen and Jenny Reynolds

Nikki Lakin, Simon Jeffries, Scott Lakin and Sarah Baker

Helen Collingborn and George Keast

Sabre Khan and Siobhan McKeating Gary Rosser, Trevor Dartford, Margaret Dartford, Greg Dartford, Colette Dartford and Lisa Rosser

Bhandari;

Brett Thomson and Dominic Hale

Photos by The Gaff; www.thegaffrestaurant.co.uk

James Wells-French, James Mulrooney and Jack Proudley

IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

Take a hike and follow a few of Holburne Museum’s famous portraits to their original Bath locations with a new walking trail

By Helena Smith Parucker and Madeleine Boylan George

Anew self-guided tour around Bath provides historical background to just a few of the people portrayed in portraits at the Holburne Museum and the artists who painted them. Compiled by Helena Smith Parucker (UCL placement student, 2021) and Madeleine Boylan George (BSU placement student, 2021) in collaboration with the Holburne’s curatorial team, the guide means we can go see where the artist Thomas Gainsborough painted and learn who lived at No 7 The Circus.

Here are just a few highlights.

1THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM

Sir William Holburne by Charles Jagger, c.1827

Starting at the Holburne itself, which houses an extensive collection of art including bronzes, old master paintings, 18th century portraits, miniatures, and ceramics, was founded by Sir William Holburne (1793–

fifth aronet of Menstrie

His enthusiasm for art was sparked by his 18 month Grand Tour – an educational journey through continental Europe, undertaken by many young British aristocrats during this period.

2GREAT PULTENEY STREET

Henrietta Laura Pulteney by Angelica Kauffman c.1777

Born in 1766 to William Johnstone (later Sir William Pulteney) and Frances Pulteney, Laura spent her childhood in London. As a young woman she was directly involved in her father’s business and his development of estates in England, Scotland, India, and America. She gained a reputation as a shrewd businesswoman and the ‘richest spinster in Europe’. She was also known for her love of dance and music. This carefree spirit is captured in the portrait of the 11-year-old Laura by the wiss artist ngelica auffman This passion persisted into adulthood and in 1791 an anonymous piece of dance music was

published entitled Miss Pulteney’s Fancy

In 1792, aged 26, she became Baroness of Bath. Two years later she married her father’s first cousin General ir ames Murray In 1803 she was elevated to Countess of Bath, and in 1805 she inherited much of her family’s fortune following her father’s death.

It was Laura who laid the foundation stone for aura Place found at the end of Great Pulteney treet on March and the nearby enrietta treet and enrietta Par are also named after her.

3ROYAL MINERAL WATER HOSPITAL

Dr Rice Charleton by Thomas Gainsborough, c.1764

Bath has long been recognised as a site of medicine and recovery. In 1597 a Royal Assent called for free access to its mineral springs but the Act, and public access, were repealed in 1714 due to the excessive numbers of oor atients see ing cures and res ite from the Bath waters.

However this did not deter visitors, and in architect ohn ood was enlisted to design a ublic hos ital ith su ort from businessman Ralph Allen and society leader Beau Nash, the hospital was opened in 1742.

A renowned physician at the hospital was Dr Rice Charleton. He was educated at Oxford University and was famed for his wor on the chemistry of ath’s mineral waters and their role in cases of paralysis from lead poisoning. Charleton was also Thomas Gainsborough’s family doctor and friend. He collected many paintings by the artist, some of which may have been given in lieu of payment for medical treatment.

4THE CIRCUS

Lady in a Blue Cloak by Thomas Gainsborough, c.1765

Thomas Gainsborough who li ed at o 17 The Circus, was a British painter and co-founder of the Royal Academy. He moved to Bath in 1759, attracted by the high-paying clientèle of the city’s social elite.

The Holburne has several portraits by Gainsborough including this ainting of an unidentified lady and that of Dr Rice Charleton to whom Gainsborough owed his recovery from a persistent illness.

“Gainsborough moved to Bath in 1759 attracted by the high-paying clientèle”

5THE CIRCUS

The Pitt Family of Encombe by William Hoare c.1758-1761

Living at No 7 The Circus was William Pitt the Elder, 1st Earl of Chatham, a British Whig statesman who achieved fame leading Britain during the Seven Year’s War.

His arrival in Bath was prompted by persistent attacks of gout. He owned the house on The Circus for ten years, and regularly stayed there while receiving treatment for the illness.

6BEAU NASH HOUSE

Richard ‘Beau’ Nash by Nathaniel Hone, c.1750

To the right of the Theatre Royal is the last residence of Richard ‘Beau’ Nash. Nash was the longest ser ing and most influential of Bath’s Masters of Ceremonies. As the ‘King of Bath’, Nash created the Lower Assembly Rooms on Terrace Walk near South Parade, as a place of entertainment, gambling and seasonal balls, and established a system of rules of polite behaviour for guests.

Beau Nash remained Master of Ceremonies for 57 years, until he was caught embezzling money from the subscriptions to the Assembly Rooms.

y oor finances led to his e iction from his home (now the Garrick’s Head pub). He moved to the house on St Johns Place, where he lived until his death in 1762.

Des ite the contro ersy o er his finances Nash remained popular, and the city rallied together to provide him with a lavish funeral at Bath Abbey. He died as he had lived, in everlasting grandeur.

7THE GARRICK’S HEAD

David Garrick as Sir John Brute an ffan c.17

The Garrick’s Head takes its name from one of Britain’s most famous actors. David Garrick was an actor, playwright, theatre manager and producer. He was a regular performer at the Theatre Royal, London. The original Bath Theatre, on Orchard Street, was one of the most prestigious outside of London, where he also performed.

As an actor, Garrick was known for his realistic interpretations that contrasted starkly with the bombastic style which until then has been popular. The Holburne owns three oil paintings of Garrick in character including his as Shakespeare’s Richard III.

8THE PUMP ROOM

The Byam Family by ma ain ug c.17 .

To the right of Bath Abbey is the former location of Thomas Gainsborough’s first house, 12 Old Orchard Street. Its front door opened onto the busy pedestrian and sedan chair route of Abbey Street.

Drawn to Bath by the increasing demand for portraits, Gainsborough bought the property in 1758. The house was demolished in 1892 following the discovery of the Roman Baths, and is now the Masonic Hall.

9OLD THEATRE ROYAL

William Brereton with a Portrait of Henry Woodward by Henry Walton c.17

Sarah Siddons was one of the leading tragic actors of the day. She joined the Old Theatre Company around 1780 and contemporary critics described her as tragedy ersonified’ Sarah became entangled with a fellow actor, William Brereton. Despite his marriage, Brereton became infatuated with Sarah. However his love was unrequited and he succumbed to mental illness, and his career began to fail. He was later committed to an asylum in Hoxton, and died in 1787.

10SYDNEY PLACE

Queen Charlotte, studio of Johan ffan c.17

Sophia Charlotte married King George III in 1761. At the time this portrait was painted at the studio of ohan offany she was about 21 years old, and was already the mother of four children.

As Bath was a popular place with the elite, Queen Charlotte visited on numerous occasions. 93 Sydney Place was her home during one of her last visits to Bath in 1817, a year before her death. During that time the house was lavishly equipped and a second house at 103 Sydney Place was reserved for her entourage. n

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE

SWEET SYMPHONY

Bristol Beacon are staging a performance at Bath Forum on 13 March with the renowned London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) conducted by the LSO artistic associate, Barbara Hannigan (pictured above). The programme will feature Messiaen and Mahler, with Hannigan herself, who has been described as an artist who ‘shoots straight for the heart and never misses’, singing the soprano line at the end of Mahler’s Symphony No 4 Incorporating complex rhythms, harmony and melodies, Messiaen is known for his unique composition style. His spiritually uplifting L’Ascension begins the evening’s programme and depicts the ascension of Christ into Heaven. Originally composed for orchestra in 1932-33, Messiaen described the four brief movements as “meditations for orchestra.”

Louise Mitchell, chief executive of Bristol Beacon, says, “We’ve had such wonderful responses to the previous concerts from the LSO in Bath. Having Barbara Hannigan conducting and singing this March is going to be an incredible moment and a performance that will be remembered for a long time.”

For more: www.bristolbeacon.org

WHAT’S ON

25 February23 March

EXHIBITIONS

Until 14 March

MATISSE: THE CUT-OUTS

The Hidden gallery is showing Matisse’s Verve portfolio. This is a collection that began in 1954, and was produced in what was the only collaboration between Matisse and the master lithographer; Fernand Mourlot, an innovator of printmaking in the 20th century. Each print masterfully replicates the artist’s famed pochoir technique through the process of lithography. www.hiddengallery.co.uk

Until 25 March

NATHAN FORD

Beaux Arts solo exhibition features the work of Nathan Ford. His portraits and landscapes have received critical acclaim and he was awarded first ri e from the Royal Institute of Oil Painters, Winsor & Newton Young Artist of the Year Award in 2001, 2003 and 2010. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

Until 28 March

PERRY HARRIS

a ing wor ed as a un fan ine cartoonist, a stage scenery painter,

an architectural illustrator, and an art technician, Perry Harris’s exhibition at Widcombe Social Club demonstrates his talent and range. www.widcombesocialclub.co.uk

Until 30 March

MAISIE WALKER

Society Café in Kingsmead Square hosts a beautiful, beach-churning exhibition depicting the Pendine ands ot Races in ales by ath photographer and Instagram fave Maisie Walker. www.maisiewalker. co.uk | www.society-cafe.com

Until 11 April

CAPTURING LIFE: A CENTURY OF THE NEW ENGLISH ART CLUB

The NEAC was founded in 1886 by a group of rebellious young artists protesting against their re eated re ection by the Royal Academy, and this Victoria Art Gallery exhibition showcases work by members past and present, including Gwen John, Winifred Nicholson, John Singer Sargent, Walter Sickert, and Paul Nash. The artworks can also be viewed in an online exhibition, with many on sale. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 11 April

JESSICA PALMER: WETLAND SPRING

Jessica is in-house illustrator for English Heritage and her current Victoria Art Gallery exhibition displays collages of meadows, meadow lants and the flora from around Bath. The exhibits are for sale, with the proceeds of one piece to be donated to the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 23 April

ILLUSTRATING THE WORLD: WOODCUTS IN THE AGE OF DÜRER

This is a rare opportunity to view the complete set of woodcuts known as The Great Passion, produced by the most famed artist of the German Renaissance lbrecht D rer 1528). www.holburne.org

Until 30 April

BATH MIND: ART AS THERAPY ason Dorley rown artist and Bath Mind ambassador, has curated this e tensi e R e hibition featuring 52 artists, many local, with the purpose of raising awareness and much-needed funds for the important community work done

by Bath Mind. On display is an eclectic mix of mediums including sculpture, illustration, and even the written word. www.artatruh.org

Until 8 May

ALBERTA WHITTLE

Alberta Whittle’s exhibition, Dipping below a waxing moon, the dance claims us for release, includes the themes of pleasure and health, as well as directly addressing some uncomfortable truths of the 18th-century including that of the Holburne itself. www.holburne.org

Until 8 May

RODNEY GRAHAM

Currently on show at the Bruton gallery, Hauser & Wirth Somerset is the work of Canadian artist Rodney Graham

ith a ractice s anning fi e decades, he operated through systems of quotation, reference and adaptation, often revolving around a central absurdity. His signature photographic lightbox works are elaborate, allegorical and witty compositions focused on his use of the self-portrait to explore scenarios from our collective cultural memory. www.hauserwirth.com

Hauser & Wirth’s current exhibition celebrates the work of Canadian artist Rodney Graham

ABOVE: Jon Klassen’s I Want My Hat Back comes to 2-D puppet life at The Egg 1 – 5 March; MIDDLE: The Hidden gallery in Margaret’s Buildings is showcasing Henri Matisse’s Verve portfolio until 14 March; BOTTOM: Mark Johnson is just one of the artists featured in the Bath Mind exhibition currently at the RUH

THEATRE / CINEMA

Until 19 March

CHARLOTTE & THEODORE

Until 8 May THE NEW BEND

The New Bend travels from the Hauser & Wirth gallery in Los Angeles to Somerset, and brings together 12 contemporary artists working in the raced, classed and gendered traditions of quilting and textile practice including Anthony Akinbola, Qualeasha Wood, and Zadie Xa. Curated by Legacy Russell. www.hauserwirth.com

Until 3 June REVOLUTION, PROPAGANDA, ART: PRINTMAKING IN MODERN CHINA

This striking, informative exhibition at the Museum of East Asian Art showcases a series of prints selected from the Muban Educational Trust’s collection of over 6,000 works. It explores artistic trends, political movements and technical developments in modern Chinese printmaking. www.meaa.org.uk

11 March to 4 July

AMERICA IN CRISIS

This new exhibition, which is an American Museum partnership with the Saatchi Gallery, features more than 80 photographs from 39 top American artists, as well as an interactive immersive experience. www.americanmuseum.org

13 – 19 March

UNRULY PERFORMER

Artist Kiri Kiri, who works with analogue, digital and 3D collages, brings her latest exhibition to 44AD Art Space. Expect surreal social commentary, humour, and some dark edges. www.44ad.net

Familiar local face Kris Marshall (of Love Actually, Death in Paradise and My Family fame) stars in a timely new play about keeping long-term romance alive in the face of a whole range of contemporary issues and obstacles, not least modern gender politics and supposed cancel culture. Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

28 February – 4 March

NOUGHTS AND CROSSES

This gripping Romeo and Juliet story by acclaimed writer Malorie Blackman and adapted by Sabrina Mahfouz is a captivating drama of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided world. Adapted from the story which inspired the hit BBC TV drama series. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

21 & 22 March

THE BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR

From kayaking in the Arctic Circle to an unusual climbing expedition in Devon and tightrope walking between hot air balloons, this new collection of ad enture films comes to Komedia. www.komedia.co.uk

MUSIC

3 March

SUEDE

One of those bands there at the start of Britpop in 1993, and still going strong thanks to their preference for the artier, more cerebral styles of proto- and post-punk. And proving the point, their new album tofi tion has just debuted at number two. www.bathforum.co.uk

16 March

GUN

An opportunity to hear their earthsplitting rock classics re-worked in an all new acoustic way, as the GUN duo Dante and Jools Gizzi come to Moles. www.moles.co.uk

19 March

THE 7 HILLS SPRING FESTIVAL

After curating last year’s Americana Festival at The American Museum, Komedia has partnered up with ex-Noah & The Whale musician Matt Owens to give the 7 Hills Festival a new exciting reincarnation at Komedia. The all-day three-stage event includes performances from Black Eyed Dogs, Ida Mae, Beth Rowley, and Robert Vincent. www.komedia.co.uk

21 March

BEANS ON TOAST

Performing at Moles is Beans on Toast, whose simple songs about complicated subjects has seen him become a people’s champ of the modern folk scene. www.moles.co.uk

COMEDY

1 March CHLOE PETTS: TRANSIENCE

The comedian described as ‘very funny’ by The Guardian comes to the Rondo and uses her trademark cerebral laddishness to examine her desperate attempts at living in the moment, the darts, and her (strictly non-romantic) love for men. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

3 March

ESHAAN AKBAR: THE PRETENDER

Whether it’s you, the person you go on a date with, your boss, or the opinion-makers on TV, we’re all pretending we know what we’re doing. We don’t. And it’s about time we all had a proper laugh about it. And here to help us at the Rondo Theatre is all round good guy Eshaan Akbar. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

15 & 16 March

JOSH BERRY

resh off the bac of a sell out debut tour, Josh Berry returns to the Rondo with a new stand up show. Expect plenty of characters and impressions as Josh Berry wades through the two interweaving topics that pre-occupy him most: sex and politics. www.rondotheatre.co.uk

CHILDREN

Until 31 July

THE WILD ESCAPE

Victoria Art Gallery is taking part in The Wild Escape, a nationwide project uniting hundreds of museums, schools and families to find nature in museums Children are in ited to find a fa ourite animal in the gallery, create an artwork imagining its ‘escape’ back to its natural habitat. The pictures and stories created will then be brought together and launched online and in museums for Earth Day on 22 April. www.victoriagal.org.uk

1 – 5 March

I WANT MY HAT BACK

Jon Klassen’s children’s picture book classic about the bear whose hat has gone missing comes to life in this charming and funny cardboard adaptation performing at the Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

SPORT

10 / 24 March

TEAM BATH NETBALL SUPER LEAGUE

Team ath start a busy run of fi e home matches in four weeks starting with a match with Surrey Storm squad on 10th, and then old rivals Saracens Mavericks on 24 March. 7.30pm centre-pass. University of Bath; www.netball.teambath.com

7 / 14 / 18 March

BATH CITY FC

The Romans upcoming National League South Table home games include Hemel Hempstead Town, Dulwich Hamlet, and St Albans. www.bathcityfc.com

ABOVE: The Guardian’s Tour de France correspondent Jeremy Whittle shares his true tales of the Tour de France at Burdall’s Yard on 1 March;

MIDDLE: Artist Kiri Kiri brings her latest exhibition to 44AD Art Space 13-19 March; BOTTOM: Astronaut Tim Peake lands at the Bath Forum on 8 March to talk space travel

The Catherine Wheel

OTHER

1 March

THIRTY YEARS IN A HIRE CAR

The Guardian’s Tour de France correspondent Jeremy Whittle, who has more than 30 years’ experience of covering major cycling stories, is at Burdall’s Yard in conversation with Duncan Steer, host of the Bath Cycling Night series. www.burdallsyard.co.uk

4 March

WORLD HERITAGE DAY 2023

The city’s celebration of World Heritage Day 2023 will be centred on a free event at the Guildhall. Turn to page 8 for more information. www.bathnes.gov.uk

8 March

TIM PEAKE: MY JOURNEY TO SPACE

Join Tim Peake at Bath Forum for a fascinating insight into what it’s really like to be an astronaut with unprecedented access to his space travel story including breath-taking photographs, and never-before-seen footage. www.bathforum.co.uk

11 March

NATIONAL PRESIDENTS BALL

Celebrate Matt Fallon’s Round

Table presidential year aboard the Orient Express with a fundraising night of 1920s glamour at the Guildhall. tickets.roundtable.co.uk

15 March

MARGARET ATWOOD

The author of more than 50 award-winning works, and whose novels include Cat’s Eye, The Handmaid’s Tale, and The Testaments is coming to Toppings to discuss Old Babes in the Wood, a collection of 15 newly-published stories. www.toppingbooks.co.uk

15 March

ROXANE GAY

American podcaster, short story writer, and novelist, Roxane Gay, brings her first e er li e shows to the UK and is calling in at Bath orum for an e ening of reflecti e no-holds-barred exploration of feminism and social criticism. www.bathforum.co.uk

23 March

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2023

The best of Bath is celebrated with 22 Bath Life Awards at the Bath Pavilion, hosted by the legendary rugby commentator and TV pundit David Flatman. www.bathlifeawards co.uk

CULTURE CLUB …with Finty Williams

Finty Williams, whose previous appearances at the Theatre Royal Bath includes Volcano in 2012 and The Clandestine Marriage in 1994, makes a return to the Bath stage from 7 – 18 March. She’s performing in the National Theatre’s epic production of Neil Gaiman’s thrilling adventure of fantasy, myth and friendship, The Ocean at the End of the Lane Finty’s many screen and stage credits includes BBC’s The A-List, as well as roles in Gosford Park, Cranford, and Doc Martin. She has also worked with her mother Dame Judi Dench on a number of occasions including the films Mrs Brown, The Importance of Being Earnest, and the children’s series Angelina Ballerina.

The last great film I saw Maverick. My dad loved Top Gun, so when the music started at the beginning I burst into tears… gosh he would have loved it.

A film I could watch over and over again

The Greatest Showman – again and again. We even went to see a drive-in version during lockdown.

A painting that means something to me

One of my favourite paintings is The Lady of Shalott by John William Waterhouse. I’ve known that painting since I was eight years old, and I always see something new in it.

My lockdown boxset

Succession. Best writing and acting I’ve seen. Ever.

Best TV show ever…

Friends. Without a doubt. It’s like a wonderful warm blanket.

The book that changed my life

Frenchman’s Creek by Daphne du Maurier. I read it when I was about nine, and my mind was full of Cornwall and pirates. So romantic.

A book I could happily re-read

The thriller Tokyo by the British crime writer Mo Hayder. Absolutely engrossing and terrifying and brilliant.

Last live music gig I went to Barry Manilow. My son Sammy came with me, and even he was impressed. Barry was amazing! My desert island disc

Purple Rain by Prince. I will never ever get tired of it. I’d be very happy on a desert island listening to that.

First single I ever bought Barcelona with Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé. I think my parents and I listened to it on repeat for about a month! And it was a proper record, so it got a bit scratched.

My karaoke go-to

We love karaoke and go quite often. More often than not our list includes somesongs from the musical Dear Evan Hansen, and a rendition of Lady Marmalade from Moulin Rouge

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Finty Williams, seen here as Old Mrs Hempstock, stars alongside Trevor Fox as Dad, in The Ocean at the End of the Lane

One of America’s most beloved writers and cultural critics Roxane Gay comes to Bath Forum on 15 March

Multi-award-winning family-run spa o ering a ordable luxury treatments including massage, facials, scrubs, pregnancy treatments and natural beauty experiences.

01225 309 356 | book@vitalitydayspa.co.uk www.vitalitydayspa.co.uk

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

nter onne tion

Recently I seem to have been encountering novels that feature multiple storylines or strands that, eventually, connect together. One Small Voice by Santanu Bhattacharya (Penguin, £14.99) is a debut novel set in modern day and early 1990s India. Our narrator Shubhankar recounts an incident from his childhood which has left him scarred and traumatised. When the bride at his cousin’s wedding calls for a tailor to make urgent changes to her dress, Shubhankar is unlucky enough to witness an appalling mob attack on the tailor’s Muslim assistant.

He has carried the memory of the attack ever since, unable to admit the impact it’s had on him and utterly mortified that he was part of a society that could have allowed it to happen – and part of a family who refuse to acknowledge or talk about the incident. Now, he would love to make amends, not least because that might help navigate his own future. But unpicking exactly what happened ro es di cult and dee ly troubling

Shabby’s story is a gripping and emotional look at divisions in Indian society (past and present), all wrapped up in a tale of friendship and prejudice.

I was recently lucky enough to interview Ayobami Adebayo about her second novel A Spell of Good Things (Canongate, £18.99) which is set in an early 2000s Nigeria marred by political violence and corruption. The novel focuses on two characters with very different u bringings

Eniola is the son of a former teacher who, since losing his job, has been struggling with his loss of status and income. Eniola and his sister are lashed each day at school as punishment for the non-payment of their school fees, leaving his mother increasingly desperate for solutions to their plight.

Wuraola meanwhile is a young doctor

born into a relatively privileged family, whose professional progress seems to mean little to her mother, in comparison with ensuring her engagement to the apparently doting and worthy Kunle.

Their stories are told in tandem and threaten to intertwine throughout, as we watch the political upheaval of the time threaten to derail their futures. Adebayo’s novel is incredibly atmospheric and along the way she shines a spotlight on social and gender divisions and the frailties of Nigeria’s healthcare and education systems. But above all this is a dramatic tale of two compelling young characters, trying to carve out their own ath amidst ery different and olatile family situations.

Lastly, A Tidy Ending by Joanna Cannon (Harper Collins, £8.99) is an unsettling literary thriller with a brilliantly unexpected ending (about which, of course, I’m going to say nothing more).

idy ndin again has various story strands that link together. First, we focus on puzzle-obsessed Linda who is living in a loveless marriage to an unbearably ordinary man, on an estate where, it emerges, bodies of young women are repeatedly found.

For Linda, this all brings back memories of some dark secrets from her own past. And what’s more, she’s becoming increasingly obsessed with the woman who used to live in her house, whose mail keeps arriving and who, it seems, has a far more interesting life than her own.

With increasing cringe-factor and plenty of dar humour these different elements of the story start to connect in very unpredictable ways …which is just what from you want from any multi-layered novel.

i otto ley is the eneral ana er o r s ori o eadin eli hts ohn treet ath tel r se ori o

hese di erent ele ents o the story start to onne t in ery n redi ta le ays”

Three powerful novels that use intertwining plots to grip the reader

THE REEL THING EMMA INGLEDEW

The Nettle Dress

Screens 1 March

Winner of the Audience Award at the Cinecity Film Festival 2022, The Nettle Dress is a modern-day fairytale and a testament to the healing power of nature. Allan Brown spent seven years making a dress by hand, just from the fibre of locally foraged stinging nettles It’s how he survives, and honours, the death of his wife from cancer.

eautifully filmed by award winning documentary maker Dylan Howitt, the film follows rown’s ourney through all the seasons and all seven years, foraging, spinning, weaving, cutting and sewing the cloth. Also on 1 March, The Little hosts both Allan Brown and Dylan Howitt for a special screening and discussion of this wonderful film

Mary Cassatt: Painting The Modern Woman

Release date 8 March

Exhibition On Screen brings the best of the international art world into your local cinema. ow on International omen’s Day the season launches with Mary Cassatt: Painting

The Modern Woman. Mary Cassatt made a career painting the lives of the women around her. Her radical images showed them as intellectual, feminine and real, a major shift in the ways women appeared in art.

ow the world’s most eminent Cassatt

curators and scholars come together to introduce us to the often overlooked Im ressionist Mary Cassatt: Painting The Modern Woman tells the tale of a time of great social and cultural change; when women were fighting for their rights and the language of art was completely re-written.

Allelujah

Release date 17 March

Screenwriter Heidi Thomas adapts Alan ennett’s much lo ed stage lay of the same name in this warm and deeply moving story about age and community.

hen the hirley assey’ geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital called the Bethlehem (or Beth for short) is threatened with closure the residents and staff decide to fight bac Together they in ite a news crew to film the re arations for a concert honouring its most distinguished nurse.

The original play was a smash hit, in fact when The Little screened it in 2018 as part of National Theatre Live all four shows sold out. Thankfully, this adaptation retains all the humour and emotion from its original incarnation, whilst adding a truly star studded cast In the assortment of national treasures cast for this film including Russell To ey udi Dench and Dere acobi it’s Jennifer Saunders who steals the show as the formidable, no-nonsense Sister Gilpin.

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP: Anything Goes is a tribute to the timeless power the tap dance; Derek Jacobi is just one of the stars in the film adaptation of Alan Bennett’s Allelujah; Mary Cassatt: Painting The Modern Woman tells the tale of great social change; The Nettle Dress is a testament to the healing power of nature

Anything Goes

Screens 15 & 19 March

Lace up your tap shoes, because a very special musical adventure is making a return voyage to the Little. When the ocean liner, the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention are thrown overboard as its assengers set out to find true lo e

Filmed live at the Barbican back in 2021, with a 50-strong cast and a full sized orchestra, it was described by The Times as being ‘the musical equivalent of sipping one glass of cham agne after another’ and The Telegraph trum eted it was the show of the year’

Directed by the multi-award-winning Broadway director and choreographer Kathleen Marshall, Anything Goes features Cole Porter’s oyful score including I Get A Kick Out of You, You’re the Top, and of course the title tune Anything Goes, in a timeless tribute to the power of love, and tap dance.

Emma Ingledew is manager at The Little Theatre Cinema, 1–2 St Michael’s Place; www.picturehouses.co.uk

Encores, exhibitions, and Alan Bennett’s Allelujah are all screening at The Little Theatre this month

Successful, well-established year-round language school in the centre of Bath requires HOMESTAY HOSTS IN BATH

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

THRINGS MEETS… INTERACTION

THRINGS solicitor Victoria Tallis meets Dieter Wood, managing director of INTERACTION

Victoria Tallis: Interaction has been in Bath for some time, but for those who don’t know you, what do you do?

Dieter Wood: We design and build outstanding work environments nationwide. If organisations want their staff to spend eight hours a day somewhere being energised, enthused and creative, they need a workplace which enables that. We work with businesses, developers, landlords and co-working operators to give people the environment they need to succeed.

To put it simply, we’re on a mission to banish boring offices!

VT: So, you must have an indepth process when working with clients to deliver exactly what they want?

DW: Very much so. We work in partnership with our clients and so it is important – for both sides – to ensure there is a match in our culture and values, especially around quality and sustainability.

This enables us to get an in-depth understanding of what our clients’ vision is for their space and their ambitions are for their organisation so that we can create an enjoyable and exciting working environment.

VT: What sets you apart from your market?

DW: While we might compete with London-based firms, our attitude towards quality means we consider our past work as our main competitor. We’re always pushing forward, driven by a great looking final product that delights our clients.

Having pride in what we do is important to our culture and when our clients see that, they

buy into it. In total, more than 3,500 people use an office space created by Interaction each year. Those are big numbers of people whose day we are improving.

VT: What is it that you love about Bath?

DW: We were founded in Bath 31 years ago and have always been here, albeit in a range of different offices over the years. We love it here and couldn’t imagine being based anywhere else.

As a city, Bath is really well positioned and is becoming seen as a much more metropolitan area where people can achieve a really fulfilling work-life balance.

VT: Working patterns have changed a lot since Covid, with the rise in hybrid and remote working. How has this impacted what you do?

DW: Like every business, Covid presented us with plenty of challenges. While our culture remained steadfast and staff were able to adapt, our main issues in the first lockdown were on

building sites with active projects across the country that had to be stopped completely.

However, this turned to our advantage as it gave us breathing space to look at the whole organisation and identify how it could successfully evolve for the future.

We know hybrid working is here to stay which is why some of our clients now want smaller office spaces but with a greater emphasis on the quality and sustainability of the space, and also on better technology.

But we believe people are at their most creative and productive when they are together in the workplace which is why, at Interaction, we encourage our staff to be in the office to share ideas, best practice and to achieve their full potential.

VT: What’s on the horizon for Interaction in 2023?

DW: We will continue to be focused on working with more people who share our vision to create spaces that users will thrive in.

The biggest thing for us this year, however, is our plan to move into a new home in Bath. We’ve outgrown our current fantastic offices, having gone from around 20 staff to more than 60 over the past eight years. And so, we are moving across the road to a beautiful Bath building which we are redesigning to create something very special. The move will give us the space and freedom to expand and we’ll be spending the coming months evolving our structure so we are ready for growth and can continue doing what we love.

To find out more about Interaction, please visit www.interaction.uk.com n

THE GAFF

Lydia Tewkesbury in estigates the newest arri al to Milsom Place

The Gaff is Milsom Place’s newest restaurant Tuc ed a little way through the archway off road treet its glass frontage and bu y atmos here lend the s ot an a ealing glow ou feel ulled toward it a sensation that only grows once you ste inside the small s ace to a warm welcome from the staff and the uiet hum of chefs at wor in the e osed itchen the occasional burst of flame from a flamb a delicious sur rise It’s the so homore o ening from co founders Dan aunders and Danielle Philli s who o ened The Gaff’s first successful iteration in berga enny four years ago during which time it’s had the nod from the li es of the Michelin Guide The Hardens Guide and The Good Food Guide and been named one of the to restaurants in ales It ma es sense Dan and Danielle or Dan and Dan as they’re nown first met wor ing together at iconic elsh Michelin tar winner The alnut Tree

before deciding to go into business for themsel es The ath iteration of The Gaff seems li ely to share in its elsh redecessor’s success following a ac ed launch e ent bac in anuary age for the ictures from the night it’s been well recei ed e er since and I’ e lost count of the number of eo le who had recommended if not actually really demanded that we go

The Gaff so named for its welcoming atmos here they want you to feel at home geddit? offers an e er changing menu of small lates ow traditionally when I hear small lates my heart sin s I’m an eater and I can’t count the number of ta as style s ots I’ e left with a rumble in my belly only to find myself microwa ing rehydrated macaroni come midnight wondering what I s ent my money on I am therefore delighted to re ort at The Gaff I not only left full but utterly stuffed In the best way The dining set u is casual so when you order e ect your lates to arri e as and when they are ready

in a steady dri of e er more in enti e fla ours throughout the e ening

It’s a no details s ared ind of lace rom the lum home ba ed bread with li smac ing Marmite butter I am definitely in the lo e’ cam and e en my com anion who is less so was con inced to gnaw on while we waited to lo ely details on the table li e the na ins delicately tied with a s rig of dried flowers and string and the cutlery resented on a little artitioned wooden tray it is clear that ainsta ing care has been ta en o er e erything This is totally reflected in the dishes ll little wor s of art food from Dan’s itchen deftly straddles the worlds of fine dining and nostalgic comfort food rom my com anion’s chic en satay with s icy sriracha sauce to my own deliciously Gavin & Stacey read elsh roast otatoes ser ed with a generous hel ing of curry sauce and scra s you now the crumbs of batter you can get at the fish and chi sho the menu ta es crowd leaser fa ourites and transforms them into something ele ated but accessible There are the straight u fancy dishes too my com anion lo ed his beautifully coo ed ha e adorned with a scattering of ha elnuts and cris y erusalem articho e and my own roast his i cabbage which arri ed billowing and scul ture li e on a creamy bed of ur ed winter s uash tasted as lo ely as it loo ed

If I ha e one recommendation for the night though it is this don’t get so e cited about your small lates that you forget about your udding because at The Gaff dessert is a necessity I went for the Gaffa’ ca e a ud so densely chocolatey and filled with ingy orange I thin I had an out of body e erience Ca ey on the outside yet smooth and almost brownie li e within the Gaffa ca e had a melt in the mouth uality that had me at this oint already ery full hungrily scoo ing chocolatey mouthfuls e en as I told myself to slow down ma e it last Don’t let it end ut sadly for me end it did and now there is nothing for it but to oin the ran s of the demanding recommenders go ou must ou won’t regret it n

DINING DETAILS

The Gaff, 29 Milsom Place, Bath; Tel 01225 984834; www.thegaffrestaurant.co.uk

Opening hours Food service Wednesday 6-9pm, Thursday 12-2pm / 6-9pm, Friday 12-2pm / 6-9pm, Saturday 12-2pm / 6-9pm, Sunday 12-3pm

Owners

Daniel Saunders and Danielle Phillips

Chef Daniel Saunders

Established December 2022

Type of food served Small plates with a nostalgic twist. There’s a good wine and cocktail list to go with it too

Covers 34

Specialities/recommendations Dishes change week to week, but if they are available the cheese and leek fritters are to-die-for

Prices Small plates for two people (they recommend 6-8 dishes) £50-£80. There’s also space at the bar for just drinks as well

Vegetarian options Yes plenty

Disability access Yes

“I think I had an out-of-body experience”

FOOD & DRINK

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S FOOD SCENE

IN SEASON

VERITY GENCO talks

rhubarb, rhubarb, rhubarb

February still feels cold. The weather is a little unforgiving. Trees and plants are still reasonably dormant. We see primrose, snowdro s and daffodils awa ening from a winter slumber. The lambs born around now will be weaned in preparation for when the grass is at its highest nutritional value, in April and May.

Despite February’s barrenness, there is a great deal on offer for seasonal gourmets such as savoy cabbage, sweet carrots, sharp chicory or endive and onions ut this month my roduce ic is an alluring and elegant British speciality whose ibrant in hue alone is enough to brighten the dullest winter days or shire forced rhubarb has an unusually short seasonality from February to the end of March, with a crop cultivation practice dating bac to the ictorian era

Known as ‘forcing’, the method sees farmers grow their rhubarb outside for two years, during which time the exposure to frost toughens the roots. The rhubarb is then lifted from the ground and placed into the famously dar growing sheds of or shire’s rhubarb triangle, where it is reared in pitch blac and har ested by candlelight – an injection of both heat and dar ness that triggers the tender shoots to grow extremely fast. The produce grows with such power that it ma es o ing sounds

as the buds burst

The delicate bright in strands that result have a sweet, sharp, zingy fla our that’s both sour and acidic but when balanced with sweetness, tart and refreshing at the same time. It’s softer and much sweeter than the rhubarb harvest in the early summer, and a good source of otassium too hel ing to ee our blood pressure healthy and our muscles functioning properly.

It is a real seasonal highlight among

chefs and food enthusiasts who eagerly await its arri al een to create new ways to showcase its spectacular show-stopping colour, slicing and dicing it diagonally to create the rettiest in atterns on to of tarts and ca es The classics ne er get dull either, rhubarb fools, crumbles and possets are always received with joy.

I won’t go through rhubarb season without poaching the fresh, candyin stems with vanilla sugar and orange juice. This simple one-time preparation then enhances more than one dish el ety smooth pannacotta with that sweet-sour rhubarb syrup and slightly softened rhubarb slices is a divine dessert.

Poached rhubarb on your brea fast porridge is a great way to start the day ny remaining o ing in uice bottles up well for a refreshing dinner table cordial. Roasted rhubarb will compliment a salad, and even adds just the right amount of sweetness to the sauce of a curry.

For more Yorkshire forced rhubarb recipes and inspiration ollo alon on nsta ra orthe a o r

GOOD HOLM COOKING

A new supper club series will see top chefs descend on Holm in Somerset. The rural outpost for Nicholas Balfe, Mark Gurney and Matt Bushnell of South London neighbourhood restaurants, Levan and Larry’s will kick off the series with a dinner with Gill Mellor on 1 March.

Next, hyper-seasonal chef and forager Harriet Mansell (29 March), who is the owner and chef at renowned Lyme Regis restaurants, Robin Wylde & Lilac will host; followed by Galapagos-born chef Ana Ortiz (19 April) whipping up a South American feast of dishes cooked over fire; and finally, slow food lover Sam Lomas (17 May) of Glebe House in Devon will bring his own unique eating experience to Holm.

For more: www.holmsomerset.co.uk

Gill Mellor comes for dinner at Holm in Somerset on 1 March

© VERITY GENCO

NEWS FEED

On 2 March, Holloways of Ludlow is hosting a whisky tasting in celebration of the Danish designer, Finn Juhl and his famous 1948 Whisky Chair. Whisky guide for the night will be Hans Martin Hansgaard, co-founding director of multi-awardwinning Danish distillery Stauning who will offer guests the chance to try one of five whisky tasting masterclasses, with long drinks and an exclusive kombucha available.

The naturally fast food chain Leon is coming to Bath. The new restaurant will open on Stall Street in March, serving up sourdough breakfast muffins, burgers, Fairtrade organic coffee, and lunchtime grilled wraps and rice boxes.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath is launching its very own hot air balloon flight experience and package running until 30 September. The balloon flight journeys over the major city landmarks, with Taittinger Champagne on landing, followed by afternoon tea created by head pastry chef, Michael Topp. There’s also complimentary access to The Spa & Bath House and guests will enjoy a one-night bed and breakfast stay at the 5* hotel.

A RIGHT GRILLING

Chef and forager ELISE BRICCOLANI on the joy of chance encounters with wild food

Elise Briccolani has two obsessions: cooking, and the complex relationship between produce, land and people. “I have a love of how food brings us together, sparks conversation and is a catalyst for change. Originally from Kent she lived “between sheep fields and woods and the city, and still find myself continuing to straddle and integrate these two worlds.”

You can catch Elise, who now lives in Bristol, at Trowbridge Town Hall’s Spring Forward evening event on 25 March, where she’ll be serving a menu of locally foraged delights.

First things first – when did you first become interested in foraging?

My dad is Italian and we would spend time there when we were young – my grandparents had a small farm on the edge of Florence and some land in the mountains. In autumn they would pick chestnuts and cook them on the fire soa ing them in slightly warm wine with sugar – delicious and so Tuscan. My dad was also very much into mushrooms so he would always have a cheeky eye out when walking in the woods and this was my introduction to tasty wild foods.

What made you fall in love with it?

I feel this huge sense of joy and connectedness to nature when you can tra erse landsca es eating along the way It’s a chance encounter with an ingredient that then informs a whole journey and exploration of the natural world.

What’s your advice to the enthusiastic would-be forager?

Primarily don’t eat what you don’t know

and allow time to learn. There is something so beautiful about the natural world slowly re ealing itself to you which offers a completely unmatched opportunity to slow down and deeply connect.

Foraging is a means to get you into the wild and connect you with your surroundings. It’s a deep relationship fuelled by respect. It’s like lighting a fire you can’t just dominate and ta e you need to be in a reciprocal relationship with it for it to burn well.

Where’s a good place to start?

Start with what you are really interested in get outside ta e a wal and see what you find Remember to loo u at the s y also or you will end up with a sore neck and blurry eyes! Try not to go hunting but enjoy your surroundings feel your tummy and your feet and the magic will appear. or the nowledge there are many courses out there and some fantastic books. I would recommend Miles Ir ing renowned wild foods e ert and Roger Philli s for learning about funghi.

What’s your favourite foraging find?

I love mushrooms. Hen of the Woods is one of my fa ourites followed closely by some tasty meaty ceps.

And when you’re not foraging, what else are you up to?

I li e to coo and tra el erfecting my craft. I spend my time often between Scandinavia and here in England cooking for intimate retreats or e ents in the woods ri ate dining in the cottish ighlands or catering larger scale events. ood ta es me to new laces connecting with people and celebrating all sorts of things worth celebrating.

For more: Instagram @artichokeeater | www.trowbridgetownhall.com

Flight then wine with the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa’s hot air balloon rides

SHOPPING

MOTHER’S PRIDE

We’re sure she is already, but here’s a way to make your mother even more proud of you – create your own ‘I love you mum’ bouquet for Mother’s Day on 19 March.

The Bath Flower school on Lambridge Buildings in ar hall run regular wor sho s on e erything floral from floristry basics to sustainable large scale installations and from s ring li ing wreath wor sho s to wedding flower courses. There’s even a photography workshop revealing all the tricks to make your arrangements Instagram worthy.

And if you think mum might like to make her own bouquet, there’s also the option of e-gift cards.

or ore details and ri in isit the ath o ers hool o

FAUX SPRING BLOSSOM SWAG, £42

This handmade in Marshfield swag of fau pink blossom and pussy willow is tied up with a beautiful velvet ribbon in a soft, mossy green. Hang on a wall all year round, or on the door as an alternative to a wreath. ro ra le el et ra leand el et o

JUST BECAUSE, PRICES START AT £40 Beautiful hand tied bouquet of roses, hypericum spray roses, freesia, veronica in shades of pink and lilac, edged with lush green foliage and scented eucalyptus. From Crescent Flower Shop, Crescent Lane, Julian Road, Bath; res ent o ers o

THANKS A BUNCH!

With Mother’s Day coming up 19 March, you need to say it with flowers

PATIO POWER GOLD ROSE FLOWER, £49.99

A compact, repeat flowering atio shrub rose with dark green leaves. Double golden, dar yellow fragrant flowers appear in the summer. From Whitehall Garden Centre, orsha oad a o hitehall arden entre o

DRIED FLOWER BOUQUETS, FROM £15

Dried flower arrangements are a sustainable alternati e to fresh flowers adding floral beauty to the home year after year.

From The Painted Flower, reen ar tation idland Bridge Road, Bath; the ainted o er ath o

MOTHER’S DAY BOUQUET, PRICES START AT £50

Totally seasonal organic Mother’s Day bouquet created using the organic flowers grown on the lectric Daisy lower arm in aul land omerset

ro le tri aisy lo er ar ele tri daisy o er ar o

PINK BELL JAR, PRICES START AT £65

Hot pink roses and blushing lisianthus nestle next to the delicate pastel-pink petals of antirinum, with frothy sprays of magenta astilbe and silvergreen leaves of eucalyptus, all displayed in a contemporary glass bell jar tied with a peacock-blue ribbon.

From Pulteney Bridge Flowers, 14 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, lteney rid e o ers o

ONE SPECIAL MUM, PRICES START AT £60

Beautifully seasonal blooms in pastel tones incorporating sweetly scented stocks, roses, viburnum, lilac, mimosa, astrantia and eucalyptus.

From Flowers of Bath, 3a Upper Lambridge Street, Larkhall, Bath; o erso ath o

AGLAONEMA ‘PINK STAR’ PLANT, £20

A real splash of colour that will thrive in low light. Will enjoy being misted each week to ee the dust off dd the planter for £16. From Botanica Studio, 17 Union Passage, Bath; www.botanicastudio.co.uk

BOUQUET OF PINK WOODEN ROSES, £19

Made in their Cheltenham studio, the Betsy Benn team have created laser cut flowers printed directly onto sustainable birch ply for an ever-lasting gift that literally doesn’t cost the earth.

From Betsy Benn; www.betsybenn.com

FLOWER SUBSCRIPTION, PRICES START FROM £95

Give the gift of sustainably grown British flowers all year round with hand tied bou uets of fragrant seasonal flowers freshly cut from easonal looms flower farm in South Stoke delivered each month. From Seasonal Blooms; www.seasonalblooms.co.uk

MOTHER’S DAY EXPERIENCES

Shower mum with love

SPA DAYS AT HOMEWOOD BATH

Treat your mum to a day of pure relaxation and rejuvenation with a spa day at Homewood. The spa includes a heated outdoor pool, an indoor hydrotherapy pool, a sauna and steam room, not forgetting the outdoor hot tub with stunning unbroken views of the Somerset countryside. Bubble away whilst sipping on a glass of Champagne. What’s not to love? Rejuvenating treatments are at the heart of The Spa, with a full range of relaxing and refreshing treatments, including all-new CBD experiences leaving the mind, body and soul refreshed and revitalised. Spa days by Homewood start from £79 per person, including use of the facilities and either a two-course lunch or afternoon tea. For more information, please visit: www.homewoodbath.co.uk/the-spa

BEAUTY CLASSES AND BEAUTY SALON TREATMENTS

Why not treat your mum to one of Little Lab's award-winning beauty classes and beauty salon treatments? They are no strangers to make-up classes and have been teaching people how to achieve a three-to-five-minute daily routine for over 12 years in their shop in Bath, and have taught 6,000 people their bespoke routine. Think of it as shy-of makeup mentoring aimed to give confidence. For 15 per cent off workshop for two, quote Bathlife

To buy a voucher or book an appointment, please visit: www.littlelab.co.uk

DISCOVER SUSTAINABLE FLOWERS AT SEASONAL BLOOMS

We are more than a florist, our flowers are grown in harmony with nature in South Stoke, Bath. Our bouquets offer a rich palette, bursting with colour, scent, and a little bit of magic. To indulge your mum, we have a special monthly subscription offer. Beautiful flowers picked fresh from the farm and delivered to your mum once a month for three or six months. We’ll include a gift card and complimentary mini posy for the Mother's Day weekend.

To order or for more information about us and our flowers please visit: www.seasonalblooms.co.uk or call Lorraine / Paula 07484 193869 / 07527 528454

15% OFF

GIVE THE GIFT OF YOUTH FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Dr Lucy has many different types of treatment available to help you look your best. Ranging from prescription-grade skincare brilliant for minimising fine lines and fading pigmentation, to anti-wrinkle treatment, dermal filler treatments for replacing lost volume, HydraFacial and PDO thread lifts. Gift vouchers available.

We’d be delighted to talk through your options. Please book in for a free consultation by visiting www.doctorlucy.co.uk

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

airready Property Management

SCHOOL GUIDE VICTORIA BOND

AI or A*?

The rise of the chatbot homework cheat, ChatGPT

Across the land, teachers are huddling over essays in school staff rooms trying to figure out who – or what – has written the homework. Is it A* or AI? Bot or not?

ChatGPT an artificial intelligence language model that can generate human-like text in real time, only launched in November, but the freakishly intelligent tool is already making seismic waves in schools. Input a basic task or question, and it can spew out a sonnet; write a iece of music fi com uter code; oh… and write your child’s GCSE history essay while they scroll through TikTok.

It’s been called both a flashy

CHAT UP LINES

I decided to try ChatGPT myself. It was free to sign up and took less than two minutes to join its 2 million active daily users. I asked the below question, and the answer was generated in just a few seconds. It felt more engaging than Wikipedia and required way less effort than a cut-and-paste job via Google. Pretty impressive.

demo with zero understanding of the real world’ and ‘the beginning of the end of homework as we know it’.

In the United States, where an e eriment saw it fly through a set of medical school final exams in less time than it would take to apply a sticking plaster, ChatGPT has already been banned from students’ devices in thousands of schools. It’s the new educational bogeyman.

British teachers are taking a more pragmatic approach.

Alleyn’s School in London hit the headlines when its head teacher announced they would no longer set essays as homework for fear of ChatGPT cheats. Instead they would switch to meaningful research tasks at home and essays

Q: In simple terms, what is ChatGPT?

A ChatGPT is an AI model developed by OpenAI that uses deep learning to generate human-like text. It’s trained on a large amount of data from the internet, including websites, books, and social media, so it can answer questions and have conversations with people. When you ask ChatGPT something, it processes your request, generates an answer based on its training, and sends it back to you. The goal of ChatGPT is to provide helpful and informative responses that seem like they were written by a person.

would only be written – robotfree – in class.

Schools know banning things rarely works in an environment where young minds are hardwired to figure out wor arounds Indeed, savvy teens have already sussed-out that you can ask ChatGPT to write in a s ecific style to deep fake work.

“I can ask it to produce an essay on Romeo and Juliet in the style of a British 14-year old so it adds in a couple of grammatical errors and even spelling mistakes typical of someone my age,’ one Year 10 pupil told me.

But would it make sense to go one step further and embrace ChatGPT and its potential as an educational tool? Some argue it could help students decipher facts from so-called hallucinations –when ChatGPT gives completely wrong answers with absolute confidence and sto Generation Google thinking that asking Alexa equates to any kind of academic research. It could, in theory offer highly ersonalised tutoring and also better prepare

students to work alongside AI systems as adults. Schools could treat ChatGPT the way they treat calculators – allowing it for some assignments, but not others.

I would argue there is much more interesting learning at stake, however, for those who dictate how we test our children.

British pupils are squished into an examination system that rewards learning by rote and gives the highest grades for the best regurgitators of facts. Critical thinking, despite the very best efforts of e ery single erson with a teaching ualification has no room in league tables. Our children are bot-like and, while this technology is still learning, our bots are child-like. Change what children are being asked to do; and perhaps the problem of bots short-circuiting education will simply go away.

Victoria Bond is the founder and CEO of School Guide, an easy-to-use website that helps parents discover exam results, catchment maps and parent reviews for all their local schools. For more: www.schoolguide.co.uk

“It can write your child’s GCSE history essay while they scrollTikTok”through

Will ChatGPT make homework a thing of the past?

MEET THE TEACHER

The people responsible for educating and inspiring young people for life

How would you describe your teaching style?

It’s organic, sometimes I will come in with a lesson plan and then read the room and realise that it’s not going to work, so you have to adapt and think of something else that will captivate them.

What subject did you most enjoy at school?

My favourite subject at school was English Literature. I absolutely love books and I am currently studying for an English degree part time.

DIANA ROWE

HAIR AND BEAUTY LECTURER, BATH COLLEGE

01225 312191; www.bathcollege.ac.uk

What are the qualities of a good teacher? Patience, being prepared to change and learn. Listening to the students and listening to our community. It is also important to not be frightened to update your knowledge and methods.

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

The students, they keep you on your toes! They make you re-evaluate everything that you do.

What advice would you give a newly qualified teacher?

To use your intuition, to read the crowd, avoid being rigid and embrace your creativity and bring the outside in.

How long have you taught at Bath College? I have been teaching at Bath College since 1997. It’s not ever stayed the same and is constantly changing which is great – it keeps it really interesting.

How has the college changed since you first started?

Dramatically. We used to write our lesson plans on paper with pencils. We are now completely

computer literate. The facilities we now have are also so much better than we have had before. We are now so much more in touch with our community.

What are you most proud of professionally?

I am most proud of seeing my students out there in the industry, managing spas, working their way through the ranks. I am ridiculous because I always cry when I see them, I try not too but my eyes leak because it is just such a proud moment when you know their journey.

What key bit of advice would you give parents when choosing a college for their children? To talk to the staff. Find staff who have a passion, and who haven’t lost their zest for training. Make sure they show a genuine interest in your child.

What are the College’s plan for the next academic year?

Just bigger and better. We have excellent engagement with our partners and are looking to introduce trips abroad to work with industry abroad. We’re looking to introduce level four programmes and bespoke, tailor-made courses to serve industry.

CLARE ROWNTREE

HEAD OF MUSIC AND PERFORMING ARTS

WELLS CATHEDRAL PREP SCHOOL

01749 834 200; www.wells.cathedral.school

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

No two days are ever the same and I love the variety within my timetable, teaching everyone from our two-year-old Ducklings through to pupils in Year 6. I love how curious our pupils are, the eyes of our youngest pupils sparkling as they explore a new sound for the first time. I also love how creative they can be when preparing for the annual Performance Platform across all the different Performing Arts disciplines. What extra-curricular activities are you involved in?

I run our Prep School Choir, open to all pupils in Years 5 and 6 without audition, and a weekly Pre-Prep Music Club after school. I am also the House Parent of our Prep Boarding House, looking after boarders from Years 4 - 8. What key bit of advice would you give to parents when choosing a school?

In my experience, people make a school (teachers and children) and the feeling you get when you walk around a potential school is akin to the feeling when you view a house. You just know when it is right and your child spending a taster day in a school is crucial to your decision-making.

What are you most proud of professionally?

I am enormously proud of all our young musicians’ performances, right from Nursery upwards, but in particular our annual Prep School Production and our magical Christmas Celebration. Involving every child in Years 3 - 6 over two nights in Wells Cathedral, our pupils demonstrate incredible professionalism and really do bring the magic of Christmas alive through music and spoken word. I consider myself very lucky to be able to nurture our young musicians and provide them with the opportunity to experience the joy that is music from an early age.

JOE VINE YEAR 3 TEACHER AND HEAD OF MATHS

THE PARAGON SCHOOL BATH

01225 310 837; www.paragonschool.co.uk

How does your school differ from others?

The Paragon School is a special place. Everything within the school is geared towards understanding the children as individuals and giving them the opportunity to be themselves. Academic growth is important, but more than that, The Paragon is somewhere where curiosity is nurtured, and each child is truly supported to flourish.

What subject did you most enjoy at school?

At school I enjoyed maths. I loved working through problems and feeling the satisfaction when your hard work pays off. When training to become a teacher, we used manipulatives to explore mathematical concepts in depth – this transformed how I approached math teaching and made me even more passionate about the subject.

What are the qualities of a good teacher?

A good teacher cares about the children in their class and knows them as individuals. We are not only responsible for their academic development, but also for their social, emotional and mental development. For children to feel that their teacher cares for them and has their best interests at heart is the cornerstone to unlocking their potential.

MARIE HOBSON

LUMIAR SCHOOL

01225 967 032; www.lumiar.co.uk

How is Lumiar different?

Children at Lumiar feel ownership of the school and are directly involved in the decision making process, through our weekly meetings. We don’t teach through individual subjects but weave the children’s ideas and interests into projects that we construct with the children. This means they are active participants in their learning journey.

What is a typical day at Lumiar?

A day involves children exploring a range of child-led and tutor supported activities related to their current project. These are hands-on, and cover subjects the child has chosen. Children are regularly visited by ‘masters’; experts in their project, allowing children to deepen understanding. A day also includes lots of outside time, and opportunities to develop social skills in our mixed age school.

What exciting things are coming up at your school?

Our world premier of Toast Busters! This year the children decided instead of a school play, to make a movie. They have just completed writing the screenplay for a feature film and will be working with local industry professionals over the next few terms, ready for the premiere at a local cinema in July.

JAMIE ROUAN

BIOLOGY TEACHER, MONKTON COMBE SCHOOL

01225 721100; www.monktoncombeschool.com

Describe your teaching style…

Variety is a key element of my lessons. I am always looking for different and engaging ways of teaching complex biological concepts. Recently I have used role play, plasticine models and group presentations to teach respiration to my Year 13 class.

What do you most enjoy about teaching?

Seeing and helping young people make progress is the most rewarding part of my job, either in the classroom, on the side of a mountain, or with self-confidence around school. I am lucky my current role allows me to have a more holistic approach to education.

What extra-curricular activities are you involved in? I run the Duke of Edinburgh programme and a mountaineering club. This gives me the opportunity to work with students in challenging and different environments each year.

How long have you taught at your school?  11 years. Although it feels like less.

What advice would you give a newly qualified teacher? To continue to observe as many lessons as possible. I would also keep reminding them that it does eventually get easier.

What exciting things are coming up at your school?

The expedition season is nearly upon us so many students will soon be swapping calculators and pens for walking boots and waterproof trousers. For me this is the most exciting time of the year. We also have some great school trips lined up, including Paris, Brussels, Iceland and New York.

Clare Rowntree

Marie Hobson

Joe Vine

Jamie Rouan

BATH WORKS

Glad tidings we bring

Yes, yes: we know it’s over 300 shopping days till Christmas. But this page’s temporary return to the season of goodwill is not to drum up support for Bath Christmas Market next year so much as to celebrate the event of a couple of months back, which (against all economic odds, you might think) was one of the very best in its 20-year history.

Coming, as it did, after a two year break – thanks to you-know-what, of course – it welcomed an estimated half a million visitors over its 18-day November – December run. Bath and North East Somerset Council, which only took over running the event in recent years, made a number of sometimes obvious, sometimes controversial changes – all of which seem to have worked. The layout of the 178 chalets was altered to reduce

overcrowding in the areas of highest footfall (right outside the Abbey, say and for the first time carts were introduced, to enable more microbusinesses to sell their wares at a reduced rate.

The response? 94 per cent of stallholders reported a successful market, and 95 per cent of visitors said they’d now consider returning to Bath at another point in the year. In other stats, 75 per cent who visited Bath over the period came solely because of the market, 74 per cent shopped outside it too, and 79 per cent had a meal at a local restaurant.

No wonder the 2022 event has been shortlisted at the upcoming Bath Life Awards, taking place on March 23. Council leader Kevin Guy says, “The city really felt alive again, and planning is already under way to make this year’s Christmas market even better.”

For more: www.bathchristmasmarket.co.uk

The market had 178 chalets

Council leader Kevin Guy, pictured centre, with two stallholders

More than half a million people visited the recent Bath Christmas Market

Last year’s Christmas market was an unexpected smash-hit: God bless us, every one

BATHWORKS

WAVE HELLO

For its next networking, dinner, and interviewing event, EntreConf is bringing a remarkable story of entrepreneurialism, business strategy and future thin ing in the free style form of ic ounsfield

Nick had originally worked in healthcare and realised that so many of the physical and mental health issues people were battling came about due to inactivity. He hoped for a place that would inspire people to get active, and did just that when he founded The Wave in 2010.

ith a ision of bringing surfing nature and blue health’ to eo le of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, it opened in Bristol in autumn 2019 and was the first lace in the world to use ground brea ing a egarden Cove technology.

On 7 March at the Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin Nick will reveal how he went from £500 and a vision, to building a team and raising £30million to make it a reality. For more: www.entreconf.com

HOG’S HEROES

What do we all know about these prickly little fellas? That we’re not meant to feed them milk, maybe? Or perhaps that their numbers have sadly declined by up to 50 per cent since a truly horrific stat?

urrah for ath a ni ersity then who’ e been awarded Gold Accreditation by the British Hedgehog Preservation ociety for being a edgehog riendly Cam us than s to watering and food stations to help hedgehogs prepare for hibernation, special training for the Grounds’ Team, hedgehog surveys at Corston Community Orchard, the establishment of a student edgehog ociety and other efforts

“This has been the best nature-focused engagement activity we’ve ever done,” says Julian Greaves, sustainability manager at ath a ni ersity It’s generated an o erwhelming le el of interest among staff and students not only in hedgehogs but in biodiversity more broadly.”

For more: Instagram @hedgehogsbsu

CAPTAIN INCREDIBLE

From Wrexham to Bath City FC, it has suddenly – surprisingly – become not unusual to see a bit of Hollywood stardust sprinkled over lower league football teams. In January, long-time fan Ken Loach, that admittedly most un starry of film directors and his colleague Helen Donovan, presented the Vanarama National League‘s ‘Community Captain’ award to Bath City C oundation’s Geoff te ens in recognition of his inspiring work for the community.

Geoff has been the dri ing force behind the development of the charity, which delivers 28 sports activities each week and supports over 2,350 Bath residents a year. “No game brings people together like football,” en says and Geoff’s assion for it is the key to his success.”

For more: www.bathcityfoundation.org

Bath Spa University is hedgehog friendly

FROMLEFTTORIGHT: Carole Banwell, general manager of Bath City Football Club, Ken Loach, president of Bath City FC Foundation, Helen Donovan, chair of Bath City FC Foundation and ‘Community Captain’ Geoff Stevens

That’s one way to be chairman of the board

MOVERS AND SHAKERS ETC

LENDING SUPPORT

In a pivotal period for Bath Rugby, the club has been refreshing its management team, including the appointment of long-standing supporter Nick Varney as its new non-executive chairman. Once chief executive at global attractions operator Merlin Entertainments (think Legoland, Madame Tussauds and others), Nick is used to complex capital projects and location-based entertainment.

“His deep experience of attendance driven brand loyalty has many parallels with sport,” says chief executive Tarquin McDonald. “I look forward to working closely with Nick as we focus on seizing those opportunities.” www.bathrugby.com

CHAIR TRADE

ath uilding ociety has a ointed the first female chair of the board in its 118 year history. Joanne Evans’ career in financial ser ices initially focussed on ris management leading to senior positions at Barclays UK and Tesco Bank.

“Joanne takes over from Robert Derry-Evans upon his retirement,” says chief exec Kevin Gray. “I look forward to wor ing with her as the ociety aims to significantly ramp up its investment in people, process and technology over the next two years.” www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk

FANTASTIC FOUR

Dorothy House, the end of life care charity, has four new olunteer ambassadors each with a s ecific role Bath Rugby and England hooker Tom Dunn is community ambassador; writer and former Cancer Care Map trustee Kitty Dimbleby is well-being ambassador; ex-president of the British Medical Association Sir Al Aynsley Green is young people and dementia ambassador; and year old ess heridan who had first hand experience of the vital role the hospice can play during her late mother’s illness in 2021, is young people’s ambassador.

The four will be using their uni ue influence s ills and experience to champion the work of Dorothy House Hospice across its 700 square mile patch and beyond. www.dorothyhouse.org.uk

AERO SMITHS

Now this really is one for the future: University of Bath spin-out company Aerogel Core Ltd, specialists in ultralight, low carbon ‘aerogels’, is currently developing next generation materials for the aerospace and automotive industries. These can cut the CO2 emissions of aircraft and other vehicles, using graphene to produce aerogels that retain their shape and strength, without the gel structure collapsing.

Principal investigator professor Michele Meo and research fellow Gian-Piero Malfense Fierro, both from the University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, have been

awarded funding to develop these from the Innovate UK ICURe (Innovation and Commercialisation of University Research) programme.

“Our initial calculations for a 280 aircraft fleet li e that of ritish irways would see an estimated 30-90 tonne reduction in CO2 emissions per year by using our material due to reducing the weight of similar materials by up to 50 per cent,” says Gian-Piero. “This is groundbreaking for the aerospace industry. We look forward to commercialising the technology and proving the scalability of our manufacturing process.” For more: www.bath.ac.uk

TRUE STORIES

ocal success story Trues eed the ath based full fibre broadband provider, reached 25,000 new properties during 2022, taking their total cumulative network to over 60,000 across North Somerset and the South West.

They’ve invested heavily too, to the tune of £39 million across Bathwick, Widcombe, Keynsham, Radstock and more. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they’ve also reached quite a few new customers – more than 13,000, in fact – and employed more staff hiring o er new em loyees to ta e the o erall wor force abo e “Now our goal is to more than double the size of our network in 2023, and continue investing across the region,” says CEO James Lowther. “To help achieve this, we lan to ta e ad antage of the first class talent ool in the outh est and will ste up hiring.”

For more: www.truespeed.com

Nick Varney is Bath Rugby’s new non-executive chairman

Professor Michele Meo with the lightweight aerogel

CEO of Truespeed James Lowther; INSET: The Bath-based company has reached 25,000 new properties during 2022

The final countdown is upon us. In less than a month, on 23 March the Bath Life Awards will return to the Bath Pavilion. All that’s left is to select your look for the night –the dress code is go glam or go home – and indulge in a little winner speech prep. You never know – it might come in handy.

We’re on track to sell out, so if you haven’t bought you ticket yet, do it soon. You don’t want to be sitting home in your pyjamas watching your social feeds fill with the glitz and celebration of the night proper – the FOMO would be unbearable. Single tickets are limited to four per company, but if you’ve got a big group in the

23 March

mood to celebrate, go all out and opt for a Silver Sponsorship. These coveted spots give you a specially dressed table for eight, your branding all over the Awards website, mentions on our social media and even a live mention from the hosts –and, of course, our eternal thanks (and actual thanks in the official Awards programme).

You’ll be joining an already fantastic list of sponsors like Headline Sponsor Doubletree by Hilton, Platinum Sponsor Mogers Drewett and category sponsors including Bath Audi, Savills, Novia Global and Hotel Indigo.

Now? All that’s left to do is think glam and get that winning Bath Life Awards look totally nailed!

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Spot those who spotted the camera...

Jon Hutson

Church Street Practice is an osteopath and natural health clinic in Bradford on Avon.

It’s run by Sara and Jon Hutson; Jon is the osteopath, while practice manager Sara is a yoga teacher and has brought in other complementary practitioners to support the osteopathic team. In addition to osteopathy, the clinic offers acu uncture homoeo athy sychothera y refle ology s orts massage, soft tissue therapy and Reiki. Here, Jon tells us more.

What’s the history of Church Street Practice?

The clinic was initially set up by the previous owner from a small shop on Market Street but moved into a converted Grade II listed building in Church Street 22 years ago – we’ve been running it for the last three of those. It’s a beautiful space with three treatment rooms e osed beams and lots of character.

How has it changed over the last couple of decades?

It has grown from a single practitioner to a team of natural

health professionals with thousands of patients on the database. The focus has been on creating a team of practitioners who are well established in their fields many teach at both under- and post-graduate level. They tend to be classed as allied health professionals, which means that they will liaise with the orthodo medical profession if necessary to facilitate a treatment plan.

What does an osteopath do?

We diagnose changes in mobility, misalignments, tensions and imbalances in all the tissues of the body from the spine itself to the muscles, ligaments, fascias, organs and the nervous system. Treatment is a total body healthcare approach, designed to get to the root cause of the problem, not just treat the symptoms.

What can we expect during a first appointment with you?

Practitioners will go through a detailed case history of the presenting complaint, but also previous medical history including operations, current medications and any past traumas or other mechanical or repetitive strains that might ha e had an ad erse effect

on the body’s structure. Patients do not normally need to undress (wearing loose fitting comfortable clothing is usually fine and are then obser ed standing to assess general alignment and movement before having a more detailed assessment of mobility.

Who would you recommend osteopathy for?

Osteopathy is well established alongside chiropractic and physiotherapy for the treatment of musculo-skeletal disorders. It dates back to 1870 and our patients range in age from newborn to the elderly, and all ages in between. Patients come for help with an incredibly diverse range of health issues, as well as back, neck and joint pain.

Do you have any signature treatments at the practice?

We have a particular reputation for the use of cranial osteopathic techni ues which are an e tremely gentle and comfortable, yet very effecti e form of mani ulation These techniques are very useful for dealing with chronic problems, especially those where an accident or trauma element is involved.

What are some examples of other therapies at Church Street?

Acupuncture – it’s now well recognised by the medical profession for its pain relief and is authorised along NICE guidelines; homoeopathy, which works directly on the individual constitution of the person, helping to improve immune system function, energy levels, and self-healing; and Reiki, which works on the energy le els of the body It is e tremely gentle and rela ing but can ha e rofound effects on releasing of tension general rela ation and improved energy levels.

And you also offer yoga classes? Yes. One-to-one yoga provides an individual session for people to either e erience the benefits of yoga for the first time create an indi idual ractice for the more e erienced to continue at home, or adapt postures to suit someone with an underlying musculo-skeletal condition. Breath wor is always a ey to rela ation and increasing energy levels, and Sara is now starting to run four-week wor sho s for eo le to e lore it

What do you love most about your work?

Patients regularly tell us how they have been able to return to normal activities following an acute episode of back pain. Stories which are particularly powerful are from people who have not been able to take part in an everyday activity such as walking the towpath because of an injury from several years ago – but, following treatment, are able to enjoy getting out and about again.

For more: Church Street Practice, 15a Church Street, Bradford on Avon; www.churchstreetpractice.co.uk

The Church Street Practice osteopath shares the benefits of natural healthcare

“TREATMENT IS A TOTAL BODY HEALTHCARE APPROACH”

STAYING CONNECTED

How retirement villages are designed to combat loneliness

By Lydia Tewkesbury

According to research by Age UK, within the next decade, two million people aged 50 and over in England are projected to be lonely – unless we tackle the issue. While it is not the case that older adults are more likely to be lonely than any other age group – actually, research shows that the old and the young report similar levels of loneliness there are s ecific life e ents that may lead to loneliness more likely to be experienced by older people. One of these is retirement – and it makes sense, regardless of how much someone may or may not look forward to it, it represents a radical change in routine, and, vitally, social life.

Age UK have also learned through research that addressing feelings of loneliness is more complicated than simply joining your local social club. What is required is a community infrastructure designed to encourage participation – think parks, communal spaces, accessible spaces and cultural sites in tandem with social activities and things like volunteering and campaigning.

Retirement communities offer one otential solution

“We believe we all deserve a life well lived, and at McCarthy Stone we want to help make the UK the best place in which to grow old,” says Nicki Beswarick, divisional marketing manager at McCarthy Stone Southern, which owns two Somerset-based Retirement Living Plus developments. “As an organisation we are focused on driving this agenda forward – developing places to live that are beautiful, sustainable and affordable and which gi e older eo le inde endence community, and peace of mind.”

The developments are designed to foster a comfortable and social

atmosphere, with communal lounges, a beauty salon and its own bistro – all points of connection for the community.

Avonpark Village in Winsley has a similar set up. Just six miles away from Bath, it is nestled in 15 acres of leafy landscaped grounds overlooking the Avon Valley with idyllic countryside views – and a design that facilitates community participation.

“The village has a clubhouse at the heart of the community, where residents can relax with a meal with friends made from local produce or ta e their ic from the abundance of acti ities on offer from art classes to fitness grou s says illage manager at Avonpark, James Grundy. “Avonpark also has allotments available to residents so they can grow their own produce and make the most of getting out and about.”

These communities offer inde endence in a well connected setting, with residents empowered to shape the community according to their needs – residents committees are ever-present, and organise their own events like summer fêtes and supper clubs. There’s plenty of connection with the outside community too, with retirement communities placed nearby town centres with easy transport links.

There’s an accessibility piece, too. One of the key factors Age UK highlights when it comes to loneliness is not being able to do the things you would li e to do with finances noted as a big limiting factor e offer the o tion to rent across a growing number of ro erties which ro ides a fle ible alternati e to outright urchase to suit eo le’s own indi idual circumstances and offers the eace of mind of an Assured Tenancy,” says Nicki at Mccarthy Stone. “In addition, we also offer hared wnershi to ma e owning a McCarthy tone ro erty e en more affordable

“We all deserve a life well lived”

OPPOSITE: Retirement communities can offer a solution to feelings of loneliness; ABOVE: Avonpark Village is set in 15 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds

Shared ownership is a scheme run in conjunction with Homes England which allows retirees to part-buy their home and pay rent on the rest, so they can still move in even if they can’t outright purchase.

“Over the last 18 months we have progressed our new and unique de elo ment artnershi with nchor ngland’s largest not for rofit provider of housing and care for older people,” Nicki explains. “This initiati e demonstrates the difference we ma e to su orting eo le across all le els of affordability and increasing su ly of retirement housing The artnershi brings together for the first time our two leading organisations, providing retirement communities on an affordable for all’ basis therefore meeting the need for lower and middle market options.”

Avonpark has also recently introduced its own rental proposition, largely in res onse to the ressures instigated by the financial crisis

In a post-Covid society, we’re more attuned to the impact of loneliness than ever before. It’s a complex subject with myriad reasons behind it, both personal and structural. A retirement community isn’t the only solution but it offers an ins iring blue rint for communities designed to foster meaningful connections.

“We believe it’s fundamental that we recognise and support all aspects of our residents’ physical, emotional and mental well-being,” says James. “It goes beyond them just checking in to the yoga class once a week; it’s about considering how they want every aspect of their lifestyle to have a meaningful, positive impact and helping them to make the time to do the things that make them feel their most alive, alert, and happy.” n

For more: www.retirementvillages.co.uk | www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk

ABOVE: McCarthy Stone offer options for different financial situations; BELOW: McCarthy Stone retirement community Kingfisher Court

hese o nities o er independence in a well- connected setting”

LEAVE IT TO THE PROFESSIONALS

Recent research by the Law Society shows that in England and Wales 73 per cent of people aged between 16 and 54, and 36 per cent of those over 55 have not made a Will – and that about 25 per cent of those interviewed believed that they did not need one and that their estates would pass to their family in any case. (If only things were as simple as that!). 34 per cent thought they did not need a Will because they had nothing worth leaving – which is certainly not borne out by the £8 million taxes levied by the Revenue last year on estates where no Will was made.

The vast majority of us would never consider omitting to insure our house or our car – not only because the latter is required by law, but because we want the peace of mind of knowing that if disaster strikes all will not be lost. Yet, thankfully, for most of us a total disaster is unlikely to occur and those claims that are made are likely to be for part only of the value of the policy.

Accidents are possible but not inevitable, but to put it bluntly death does not fall into that category! It will happen to each and every one of us, and, at the risk of sounding flippant, it will be total, not partial! So, isn’t it extraordinary that whilst we see the wisdom of renewing our insurance policies each year, making a Will is seen as some sort of optional extra?

If you do not have a Will the fact is that you need one – and it should be properly drawn up by a professional. Not long ago I was asked by the family of an elderly lady who had just died to obtain a Grant of Probate of a Will written by her on a form bought from the local stationers. It was only two sentences long, yet it is faulty in five different respects and it will not have the effect she intended it to have. How sad for her and for her family that by ‘saving’ a few pounds, she has effectively cost them what she intended

them to have. In another case we have just saved the beneficiaries of an estate £117,000 in Inheritance Tax by putting in place a Deed of Variation of a badly drawn Will.

As I say, accidents are possible. They are not exclusive to the elderly. They can strike anywhere and at any age – as can illness, as the recent pandemic has illustrated only too vividly. We can ‘insure’ against accidents and debilitating illness by making a Lasting Power of Attorney to ensure that someone we trust will run things for us and make the right decisions on our behalf if life should go wrong. (Incidentally, it is a fallacy that having everything in joint names will overcome this problem. In fact, joint accounts are often frozen by banks if one account holder loses their capacity, and then neither party can access the funds, creating serious cash-flow problems for both.) Without a Lasting Power of Attorney, if you cannot, even for an interval (say whilst recovering from a stroke or accident) manage your own affairs, then it will fall to someone – probably your partner or spouse, who may already be overstretched looking after you and doing all the things you used to do around the

house as well as their own chores – to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed to act as your deputy, in order to access your bank accounts and pay your bills. The deputyship route is slow, cumbersome and expensive, and not helpful in a crisis.

Are your affairs in good order? Do they really reflect your current and probable future needs? Do they save tax or other expenses which need not be paid? If not, now is the time to take action; doing so need not cost a fortune, could save you and/or your beneficiaries thousands of pounds whilst saving sleepless nights for you – and for those who will have to pick up the pieces after the event if things are in disarray. n

Helen Starkie Solicitor 38 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2NT; 01225 442353; www.helenstarkie.co.uk

HELEN STARKIE explains the importance of having a professional Will put into place...

“IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A WILL THE FACT IS THAT YOU NEED ONE – AND IT SHOULD BE PROPERLY DRAWN UP BY A PROFESSIONAL.”

PROPERTY

PLACES TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY

IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa launches 11 thoughtfully refurbished suites

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa has unveiled 11 luxurious refurbished suites. Each room has been individually designed by Clayton & Company, led by project manager Becky Astley.

Becky drew her inspiration from current wallpaper and fabric trends, weaving a mix of bold colour palettes against neutral backdrops, with colours chosen according to historical Georgian tones by Farrow & Ball. A lot of the furniture was sourced from Oka, which has an outpost on Milsom Street, only a stone’s throw from the hotel, should guests wish to replicate the look at home; lighting came from Pooky, and fabrics were primarily sourced from Thibaut, Anna French and Jane Churchill.

“The brief to the designers, Claytons, was to create a more contemporary feel in the hotel bedrooms whilst also maintaining a luxurious quality and still respecting the property’s historic Georgian past,” says Lorraine Jarvie, general manager. “It was therefore important to find the right balance of modern fabrics and furnishings and fusing them with the beautiful intricate moldings and grand fire laces of the existing architecture.

“The end result is fresh, clean and contemporary bedrooms that still maintain a wonderful feeling of grandeur.”

For more: www.royalcrescent.co.uk

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa has unveiled 11 refurbished suites

The drawing room in the Sir Percy Blakeney suite

New development HOME COMING

The restoration and conversion of Clarks Mill in Trowbridge into a collection of apartments is now com lete with the o cial launch ha ening on 4 March. Set within a Grade II listed former mill, Clarks Mill is a landmark scheme of 16 high quality, individually designed homes with prices starting at £279,000 for a two bedroom apartment.

drienne arthram who was the first to buy at Clar s Mill ha ing urchased the ro erty off lan says, “I grew up in Wiltshire and had never considered Trowbridge before but quickly discovered it ticked all the right boxes.

“The development was the clincher. The building is beautiful and the apartments are incredibly well designed with great attention to detail. For me, with two young children the o en lan layout is ideal and with the train station just across the road, everything is so accessible.”

For more: www.savills.co.uk

Property Symposium FORWARD THINKING

The South West’s leading property players and experts are preparing to gather for the next Property Symposium happening 21 April at the M Shed in Bristol.

Deli ering s ecial resentations on ristol ath Cardiff and Exeter around the topic of ‘The City of the Future’ are Simon Martin, BANES’s director of regeneration and housing; Ian Collinson, director of city development at Exeter City Council; uliet Gamlin rinci al o cer at In est in Cardiff and te hen Peacoc chief e ecuti e o cer from ristol City Council

Also speaking is Tim Fendley, the founder, CEO and creative director of Applied Information Group, and a leading authority on cities worldwide.

For more: www.bathpropertyawards.co.uk

Restoration work FAIR DEAL

or to maintain the historic airfield ouse once the home of m eror aile elassie I of thio ia is about to start ath orth ast omerset Council and airfield ouse ath Community Interest Company (CIC) have started working in formal artnershi and agreed a significant maintenance rogramme for airfield ouse in elston Road

The site, which comprises two buildings: an ‘Italianate’ 19th century Grade II listed illa at elston Road and a ost war residential detached bungalow at 27 Burleigh Gardens, is currently used as an active community hub and a day care centre for the elderly, as well as being an important heritage attraction for visitors worldwide.

illiam eath co chair of airfield ouse ath CIC says “This is a very important building and we are pleased to have been able to agree the maintenance programme with the council to ensure its future.”

or ore airfieldho se ath o

Clarks Mill in Trowbridge officially launches 4 March

The M Shed in Bristol will host the next Property Symposium on 21 April

Clarks Mill site manager, left, Richard Parker with new resident Adrienne Barthram

Fairfield House is about to undergo much needed maintenance work

CLEEVE HILL

By Paul Marland

During lockdown, when walking suddenly became everyone’s favourite leisuretime activity, and 20,000 step days were the norm, one favourite wander became along the ridge from Weston Village on the western edge of Bath to Kelston Roundhill. With its copse of trees, herds of sheep and clear views across the Mendips, the Wiltshire Downs, and across Saltford and Bristol to the Severn bridges and into Wales – it is utterly picturesque.

This would be the place to live, we said more than once, enjoying the view with a cheeky glass of Picpoul, and now here’s the perfect opportunity to do just that, thanks to Cleeve Hill House, with its seven bedrooms, ten acres, and – thanks to a double garage and a fourcar carport – covered shelter for an armada of vehicles. And it’s not just that there are lots of rooms here, but that they’re all vast too: the overall impression this place gives is one of light and space, and that’s almost as true inside as out.

Ta e the ground floor for instance it has a sitting room, a drawing room, a reception hall, a kitchen/ breakfast room, and a family room/dining room, and they’re all 20’ x 18’, or thereabouts. But then there’s a study too, and a utility room, and they’re both nearly as huge. Plus, the ceilings are tall, with full-length, triple-height bay windows everywhere, and often French doors or window seats too. Everywhere you go,

Seven giant bedrooms, but this light filled country home is anything but a snooze

the house seems to be encouraging you to consider your cavernous-yet-snug environs and the wide world beyond as art of a ha ily unified whole stairs things are ust as im ressi e ere you’ll find three similarly massi e bedrooms two with en suites) alongside four smaller bedrooms, plus two family bathrooms Then there are all the cloa rooms boot rooms cellars stand alone loos and wal in antries scattered around the corners on both floors all told there’s s uare feet of li ing area here and that’s not e en counting the built in garages utdoors you’ll find a sheltered dining terrace gra el ar ing a garden store wor sho e tensi e itchen gardens, and a sheltered outdoor pool – plus level lawns, mature woods and addoc s beyond Thoughtful landscaping and the imaginative use of a wide variety of shrubs flowers and s ecimen trees ro ide colour and interest whate er the season

It’s all somehow reminiscent of a certain ery large house in the country from our childhood reading, one “you never seem to come to the end of” where “no one’s going to mind what we do a house in which you’d find rooms that were uite em ty e ce t for one big wardrobe The erfect home for any Peter usan dmund or ucy then nd all this somehow magically only two miles from the middle of ath

HOUSE NUMBERS

CREATIVE VISION

A central Bath apartment designed to inspire

By Lydia Tewkesbury

Photos by Rebecca Faith

The Writer’s Retreat is a stylish holiday let overlooking Portland Place a short fi e minute wal from The Royal Crescent. Created by Deborah Wilder and Dieter Wood, the airy a artment is suffused with the air’s design edigree Dieter is managing director of Interaction a ath based commercial interior design firm nown for building en y inducing and award winning o ce s aces while Deborah formerly head of research and strategy at Interaction now co founder of wor lace consultancy or well PC has se eral ath and ondon based reno ation ro ects behind her as well as a career s ent translating the sychology of em loyees into effecti e wor lace design schemes The riter’s Retreat re resents the culmination of both their s ills for a brand new enture and here Deborah ta es us behind the scenes of the design rocess

Talk us through the project

The ro ect was led by myself and my husband Dieter ood e does the ro ect management and build side I do the interior design rocurement and finishing side e wanted to create the erfect lace for a ariety of uses for digital nomads to stay there and wor for a wee or two in an ins iring setting to ha e a romantic wee end away a fun city brea for a small grou of friends or to use as a base for e loring the beautiful countryside around ath It needed to be high uality and original to stand out from the crowd of holiday lets that have recently been created in Bath.

What’s the story behind the name?

e thought of the name as we set u the des in the study that o erloo s the green and the Georgian terraces of Portland Place It’s such a eaceful and ins iring setting ust erfect for sitting there and writing a boo a research a er or a blog or doing some design wor or coding.

What attracted you to this particular property?

The location is s ot on on a uiet street away from the hustle and bustle but only fi e minutes’ wal from the Royal Crescent as well as caf s sho s and restaurants in the centre of ath rom the outside it was the history and beauty of the Grade II listed terrace which has its own i i edia age nd inside it was the ast ceilings the original Georgian features such as the fire laces shutters and huge interconnecting doors and the natural light that fills the s ace from sunrise right through to sundown

ABOVE: Designer Deborah Wilder; LEFT: The Rose Encaustic tiles from Bert and May are Deborah’s favourite feature in the apartment

RESIDENCE

What was your vision for the décor?

I had to fight against my desire to decorate with a lot of colour t home we ha e no white walls and I lo e the coloured ceiling loo that many designers are using at the moment e wanted it to feel lu urious and interesting but also to a eal to eo le’s arying tastes so we went for a soft white d cor throughout lthough not ure white which is to be a oided at all costs e used a remium heritage white aint in ee ing with the ro erty’s history This soft white ro ides the erfect bac ground for the interesting art colourful tiling and the eclectic mi of furniture soft furnishings and accessories

What’s the vibe?

erything was designed or sourced thoughtfully and carefully to ma e sure the lace feels curated and interesting or e am le the bathroom ceiling has two different heights with a full height s ace with soft lighting abo e the bath to gi e it scale and interest s well as originality and ibrancy we also wanted to be en ironmentally conscious so where ossible we chose sustainable natural materials or reused or recycled for fi tures fittings and furniture e used a design out waste’ a roach with the artition walls built in cu boards tiling and flooring ome of the accessories were sourced as mid century modern anti ues no I ea on the remises nd we ro ide high uality egan toiletries as refillables

Who do you turn to for design inspiration?

My latest fa ourites are interior designers G tudio They ha e done some fantastic ro ects all uni ue and I lo e their use of colour and drama erall my style ins iration comes from candina ia but with a broader brighter colour alette I li e to use a mi of contem orary clean lines and the natural uir iness of anti ues and original features of eriod buildings

What local shops did you source your décor, homeware, and accessories from?

Terra o tiling from Mandarin tone bes o e itchen from us accessories and soft furnishings from Graham Green on alcot treet e used the e cellent The raming or sho on alcot treet to frame the original art too

What are your favourite independent homeware shops in Bath? lways unday is fab ut my fa ourite is erdoulat in Margaret’s uildings es ecially for beautiful wooden ieces and ottery

Do you have a particular favourite room or is there any part of the property you are especially proud of?

The itchen robably because it was ery challenging and we feel the e tra effort was worthwhile for the finished result

Soft white walls provide the perfect backdrop for an eclectic mix of furniture, accessories and colours

Why was the kitchen difficult?

It is a ery uir y sha e and we wanted to fit e erything in there to ro ide a fully e ui ed itchen It also has a ery high ceiling and a large window so we needed to ma e sure the ro ortions were balanced e went bac and forth on the layout and detailing many times to get it right Going bes o e is ne er going to be the easy or chea o tion com ared with buying off the shelf ut it was worth it des ite the e tra time and e ense in ol ed e ha e a com letely uni ue itchen which loo s calm natural ractical and hard wearing

What is your favourite item in the apartment?

The tiles in the fire lace in the li ing room e s ent a long time trying to find the right si e original Georgian insert for the marble fire lace surround without success so the solution was to tile the insert and the hearth with beautiful Roses ncaustic tiles from ert and May e were really ha y with the result which brings a contem orary but natural touch to the interior.

What do you want people to feel when they enter the home?

ll my wor both sychology and design is about how s aces ma e eo le feel I want them to feel welcome ins ired e cited ha y creati e but also comfortable and rela ed The huge windows and ery high ceilings in the riter’s Retreat create an ama ing sense of light and s ace the original art and the use of colour and te ture ins ires creati ity The su er comfy bed with high uality linen and the s acious s a style bathroom with full bath allows comfort and rela ation I also want eo le to feel energetic and healthy hence the well e ui ed itchen and dining area for re aring healthy meals as an o tion when guests want a brea from all the lo ely restaurants in town

Whose house would you like to have a snoop around?

I would lo e to go to ohn Pawson’s home ome arm in the Cotswolds he is a ritish architect nown forhis white ared bac aesthetic That might be sur rising because it doesn’t loo anything li e the colourful designs I ha e created hat I lo e about it is the natural materials its sim licity and scale as well as the connection with the countryside and nature e’s also got a really cute dog a bit li e ours that I would li e to meet

CLOCKWISEFROMLEFT: The spacious spa-style bathrooms offers relaxed vibes only; original artworks were framed at The Framing Workshop on Walcot Street; Dieter Wood was project manager for the Writer’s Retreat

“The place feels curated and interesting”

What would you say are the must-have elements of a welldesigned holiday property?

really welcoming first im ression and s otlessly clean well e ui ed itchen and a table and chairs to sit down to eat interesting d cor original touches and nothing from I ea e ha e nothing against I ea but we ha e been to so many self catering laces in the and beyond that are almost fully e ui ed with I ea furniture and accessories and it feels bland uniform and redictable Good uality mattress linen and bedding fast wifi and finally a decent shower and well lit bathroom

Describe your ideal aesthetic contrasting mi of old and new contem orary interiors using clean lines and colour unctuated with anti ues and interesting ob ects set in historic and characterful uir y buildings im le but not minimal ery as ect and e ery single item needs to be interesting and isually e citing as well as functional

Finally, what’s the nicest thing anyone has ever said about your designs?

It was one of the re iews from irbnb I ha e ne er had such an e uisite irbnb stay e ery detail was thoughtful and no e ense s ared on the interior design r the lo ely interior design influencer Dustsheets D cor who osted a ideo of her stay on Ti To saying ou audibly gas when you wal into your irbnb which attracted iews in ust a few days

For more: Search for the Writer’s Retreat on Airbnb; www.airbnb.co.uk

Got an amazing local home? Want it to feature in Residence? Contact sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk

The super comfy bed with beautiful high-quality linen allows for equally high-quality relaxation

CHANGE STARTS WITH GIRLS

ETHIOPIAID is a small fundraising charity with a big impact

This International Women’s Day we want to show where change really begins. The formative years of a girl’s life are so important for shaping the women they become. In Ethiopia, we believe these years are even more imperative.

We have and always will support women and girls. We believe no girl should miss out on her education due to her period or have to experience female genital mutilation (FGM) and its life-altering complications. Our partners work hard to provide protection for these young girls and support their education.

To put it simply, if we are able to protect girls from the trauma of FGM and continue working to keep girls in school by supplying a simple reusable period pack, we can ensure long-term change starts, one girl at a time.

Girls who remain uncut are more likely to complete their education, make better decisions about their health, their lives, and their future families. A better education lowers the risk of child marriage, FGM and gender-based violence. Educated women are also more likely to access maternal healthcare, send their own children to school, and contribute to community efforts to build resilience.

Your support can make a difference and help

protect these young girls from the start. We are calling on our local communities to help transform the lives of these young girls, for generations to come. Help us build better futures by donating this International Women’s Day.

WHO IS ETHIOPIAID?

Based in Bath, Ethiopiaid is a small fundraising charity with a big impact. We deliver support to people who need it the most, at a time when it will make a real difference. We raise funds for local Ethiopian charities to transform lives and achieve lasting change.

Our partners have been changing lives and supporting local communities in Ethiopia for 33 years, and as long as there is a need, will continue to do so.

Ethiopiaid, PO BOX 5168, Bath, BA1 0RR

Charity no. 802353; 01225 476 385

 ethiopiaiduk; f EthiopiaidCharity www.ethiopiaid.org.uk

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“ WE HAVE SO MANY SUPPORTERS ACROSS THE CITY, YOU CAN ALSO BE PART OF THE CHANGE BY DONATING OR FUNDRAISING FOR US”

Our vision: an Ethiopia in which every person has access to quality education, healthcare, and a life of dignity.

School girls receiving their free reusable period packs

Ethiopiaid fundraises for charities supporting women and girls

FOR THE HOME

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

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 and advice from expert staff on how to transform your windows into something gorgeous. Full design, measuring and fitting service. 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

Bath’s leading fireplace, wood burner, gas fire, chimney and flue specialist. From classic to contemporary, concept to completion, their team of experts can work with you to achieve your perfect interior. Brands include Chesney’s, Barbas Belfires, Hwam, Stuv and Jetmaster. Get in touch or visit the showroom. Mendip Fireplaces, Monkton Combe, Bath BA2 7HD; info@mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk, 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

Offering stylish, innovative flooring solutions to meet the needs of the savvy Bath homeowner. Virtuoso employ the largest team of experienced fitters in Bath. Their dedicated team are ready to turn your dream floor into a reality. Call now for a free consultation or visit their new show room on Moorland Road. To enquire, email info@virtuosoflooring.co.uk or call 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 service adapted to each client’s needs, Jennifer’s unique style blends seamlessly between period and contemporary homes. The aim is simple – to create spaces that bring joy, reflecting her clients’ lifestyles and personalities.

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 for both residential and commercial clients. Her portfolio of projects includes the design, project coordination and sourcing for some of Bath’s most beautiful residences, as well as hotels, sports clubs, offices and other commercial 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. 7-9 North Parade Buildings, Bath BA1 1NS; 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, Schmidt Bath offers luxury solutions for the home at affordable prices. With a dedicated in-house fitting team, your project will be completed to the highest standards. Visit their showroom to see the latest ranges and more of what they can offer. 1 Park Road, Bath BA1 3EE; Tel: 01225 337276; www.schmidt-bath.com

FREYA ANDERSON

Freya Anderson MBE is an Olympic swimming champion and World, European and Commonwealth medallist who trains with the hugelysuccessful British Swimming Performance Centre Bath squad under David McNulty at the University of Bath. She has achieved nine relay gold medals at three editions of the European Championships, including five golds in a single meet at the 2020 European Championships in Budapest, as well as two bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games, and a bronze at the 2019 World Aquatics Championships. In July 2021, she won gold as part of the British team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in mixed 4 × 100 metre medley relay. In the 2022 New Year

Honours, Freya was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to swimming.

Having started learning to swim at five as a life skill, I was fairly confident in the water but was so shy out of it, that I didn’t like going to lessons. I somehow progressed and got selected to go to the local club for a trial.

I wanted to be a vet when I was younger. Now, I want to see how far my sporting career can take me, and then see what’s next.

I went to boarding school from age 14 – 19 and could combine my studies with my training. Swimming taught me discipline from a young age and I’ve always been competitive in and out of the pool.

In May 2020 during the pandemic I moved down to Bath to train under Dave McNulty, one of swimming’s most successful coaches. I’ve since been to four world championships, three European championships and the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

My worst sporting moment would be back in 2017 when I injured my back; I thought of quitting altogether but pushed through and am so glad I did. A scan in 2021 revealed I still had the injury so I’ve learnt to live with it. One of my best moments would be my first indi idual medal at the European short course Championships in 2019.

I met Princess Anne at my MBE investiture, and I was so nervous. She asked where I was from and I mentioned I trained in Bath and she said it’s a lovely place.

As we do so much training –about ten swims a week –it doesn’t leave much time for a social life but we’re a close group of swimmers who I train with so I never feel like I’m missing out on too much.

I have World Championships in Fukuoka next summer and then Paris Olympics 2024. I’d love to compete in LA 2028 and possibly even Brisbane 2032, but will have to see how my body holds up.

My mum and dad live on the Wirral with my dog, Otto and seven Guinea pigs. My brother, who is two years younger than me, is studying chemistry at Leeds University – he got the clever genes.

I really enjoy art and in particular painting. I studied it all through school for A-level, and I recently picked it up again.

My most prized possession is definitely an emerald ring I was given from my Nana after she passed away.

I live in Combe Down with my best friend who I also train with. It’s perfectly located being fi e minutes into town and fi e minutes to training.

My last meal out in Bath was at Pintxo, they do the BEST tapas. I also love upstairs at Landrace, the Walcot, Hudsons and Clayton’s kitchen. My favourite café has to be Cortado, but I love Green Bird and Nook too. I LOVE to eat out in Bath!

My secret Bath is a little road off Widcombe Hill. I love to go to the top of it and sit to watch the sunset. It’s the perfect place to clear my head. n

For more: www.teambath.com

The Olympic swimmer on training, being a champion, and loving Bath

“We do so much training – about ten swims a week”