Bath Life - Issue 498

LET’S GO, BARBIE!

THINK PINK EVERYTHING MAKE A SPLASH PADDLE BOARD AROUND BATH

OBJECTS OF DESIRE LOCAL INDIES ON THEIR BEST NEW OFFERINGS

RAISON D’ETRE VERITY GENCO ON CURRANTS

SOFT POWER

WE TAKE A HARD LOOK AT SOFT FURNISHINGS

WITH DIVINE SAVAGES, ETONS OF BATH, WOODHOUSE & LAW, SALCOMBE TRADING AND MORE

This is one of them!

If you’re a regular reader of this mag (and if you’re not, please stay behind after class and see me), then you couldn’t have failed to notice the increasing expansion of our society pages. We’ve gone from a Covid void that seemed to echo on way past the lockdown years to an explosion of life, colour, gatherings, and crowds over the last 12 months or so. Our Scene section (pages 17 – 24) are ablaze with the buzz of networking, friendships, partying, launches, milestones, festivals and all-round good time mingling and connecting. Over on page 64 we’ve got even more meet and greets, with all the action from EntreConf’s first ‘in real life’ conference.

I am sometimes lucky enough to be invited to a few of these galas and gatherings, and it feels to me like this summer there’s more energy, verve, and appreciation than ever. I’ve noticed people are staying longer, laughing more, swapping contacts – and if there’s a DJ, canapés, and some drinks on silver trays, well, then there’s no stopping us.

Look out next issue for more smiley, happy faces in our Bath Boules special, plus (still to come) there are exclusive images from Pub in the Park, Bath Carnival, a few private viewings and more celebrations. Sometimes there can be real joy in being another face in the crowd.

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SARAH MOOLLA

ABOVE: Recruitment agency Juice celebrates its 25th anniversary in the Holburne grounds (page 17);

BELOW: Chanii B is taking Barbiecore to new heights (page 52)

St.James’s Square, Bath

O ers in excess of £1,500,000

A Grade I Listed 5 storey Georgian Townhouse situated on the corner of this prestigious square on the north side of the City. This immaculately presented 4 bedroom property has over 3000 sq ft of accommodation and a quiet courtyard garden to the rear. EPC Rating: exempt

Woolverton, Somerset

O ers in excess of £1,750,000

A fabulous two storey stone built family home with 4/5 bedrooms in an acre of land, with a wonderful rural outlook near the Somerset village of Norton St Philip. The property is surrounded by well-maintained private gardens and has a separate annexe: a double garage/gym with a luxury apartment above. EPC Rating: C

Issue 498 / August 2023

COVER Stripes, circles, dots, flowers and all the foliage: one of Kaffe Fassett’s fab quilts at the VAG (p33) also introduces a soft furnishings special (p78)

FEATURES

26 PADDLE THROUGH BATH It’s totally oar-inspiring

30 STATE OF PLAY Worried sport might have passed you by? It hasn’t! Here’s where we prove that the quest for fitness never stops

54 BEST IN BATH From killer novels to novel knickers, here are some fave indie store products – chosen by the people who sell them

78 SOFT FURNISHINGS Curtains and cushions, rugs and throws: they don’t just finish a room, they make it sing

THE ARTS

33 ARTS LEAD You know, we’ve never felt quite so happy simply looking at a quilt

34 WHAT’S ON Oh help! Oh no!!! It’s a Gruffalo!!

41 BOOKS Trapped in the ignominy of second best

LIFESTYLE

51 SHOP LEAD Time to think pink!

52 EDITOR’S CHOICE Pink! Pink! Pink!

FOOD & DRINK

44 FESTIVAL REVIEW Dance off the calories at Valley Fest: we review last year’s grub to encourage you to sample this year’s

48 FOOD & DRINK Currently it’s concerning currants

BUSINESS

63 NETWORK Inside the rather excellent EntreConf 2023

66 NETWORK NEWS The travails of Green Park Station, the delights of Yak Yeti Yak, and more (much more)

PROPERTY

75 PROPERTY LEAD 25 new homes coming to Frome

76 PROPERTY NEWS Restorations, renovations, and sales

84 SHOWCASE Take a classic old inn, mix in a slew of modern features, and you get this beaut

DEPARTMENTS

11 SPOTLIGHT Is this Bath, or down the rabbit hole? Why choose? (Carrots, anyone ?)

13 INSTAS Put your fear of heights aside and get those cameras ready

15 FLATLINE Unused purchases make lovely homes for spiders

17 SOCIETY Get those glad rags on!

90 BATH LIVES Mel Lawman: from ‘crappy poetry’ to musicals

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robinsderi.robins@mediaclash.co.uk

Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham

Contributors Matt Bielby, Nic Bottomley, Laura Brown, Lisa Drewe, David Flatman, Verity Genco, Gracie Hanson, Wendy Lyne, and Deri Robins Social media assistant Grace Goodall grace.goodall@mediaclash.co.uk 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 Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Production designer Matt Gynn matt.gynn@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg. ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 2PW. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved.

MediaClash.

celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol. Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

Rabbit, rabbit GOOD HARE DAY

If you spotted a giant hare at the recent Bath Festival Party in the City, and kept quiet in case you thought it was a case of Harvey the six-foot white rabbit syndrome, or that you were experiencing some kind of Alice down the rabbit hole rush, then fears allayed. He was there.

The dapper rabbit is the work of Molly Dickinson from Bath, a former st ent at a esfiel Girls’ School and Kingswood, who has just graduated from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Car i a in st ie Design for Performance. She explains: “For one of my projects this year, I designed and made this Festival Hare for Bath Festival’s Party in the City. It was a great day, and the Hare, modelled by Louie Greensmith, certainly got lots of attention; I think every festival should have a few anthropomorphicguests.” ite ri t oll as st a er first e i ition with fellow graduates at The Bargehouse, in London’s South Bank, and is about to start her career designing an creatin for t eatre fil tele isionan li e e ents. For more: www.mollymaker.com

PHOTOS BY LUKE SHADRICK. INSTAGRAM

Waiting for Bugs to show up

Doing it like a boss on Milsom Street; INSET: Molly Dickinson is the talented maker of Hare

Using his listening ears

That’s some rabbit-face filter you’ve got there

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Saturday 19th August

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FLAT LINE DAVID FLATMAN

Chairman of the boards

There are certain things that we buy, knowing there’s a tiny chance of any sort of return on investment. Actually, air fryers used to slot into that category, but these days they’re more talked about and hyped up than your average Ashes series, the net result being that people like my parents – who bought one circa 1993 – are now achieving next-level smugness. Petrolpowered leaf blowers mostly sit in sheds, along with backup chainsaws just me , while posh road bikes become homes for spiders in garages across the land, only getting ridden when the Tour de France is on the television.

A few Christmases ago I made one of these purchases. In fact, I made a couple. I bought each of my daughters a swanky inflatable

paddleboard. Every summer we pump these massive vehicles up and whack them on the water in Devon. They love them. Like, properly love them. Even though they’re now 13 and 11 and therefore incredibly cool and ‘over’ anything that might be deemed babyish, their paddleboards are still used as jumping platforms, dinghy drop off transport, and for actual paddleboarding for as many hours as we grown ups can handle at the beach. Given the choice, they’d each do 12hour days on them for the whole time we’re down there.

Because they’re such adored members of our family, you might think I’d deem them worth the initial cash outlay. That’s until you factor in the fact that they spend roughly 11 months of every year in my garden shed almost fully inflated, as that’s better for them being ten feet long and bang in the bloody

way of everything. We’re so used to them being there that they’ve effectively become invisible to us, much like that tea towel that fell off the washing line a month or two back, or the tennis rackets you never quite put away that are now rusting out by the back door. Or the paddling pool that you’ll never wash, allow to dry, deflate and store properly I did mine yesterday, and I feel like Superman!

What I’m determined to do, though, it to make darn sure that these rubber behemoths don’t become my version of my grandad’s car: something huge that never moved but that nobody would sell in case he felt its loss too keenly I want to use my their paddleboards more. We went to Cleveden Marine Lake last year and it was ace, but it’s about a thousand miles away and we can’t be bothered to go there every time.

So we need help. A lovely tree surgeon who arrived with his own chainsaw (therefore not needing to borrow either of mine. Both fully serviced and wearing new chains, just in case a while back mentioned a few great local spots where we might go to wobble on and ultimately fall off our boards ut I’m a man and I used to play rugby in a rather combative position, so can’t remember any of them. This, then, is where I ask for some – any – kind readers to get in touch Instagram is fine and let me know where to go. I’ve Googled it but that list was too long, and I ended up tumbling down paddleboardhorror-story rabbit holes on Mumsnet.

If nobody messages me with venues and advice, then I’m taking the kids down to the weir Should be fine

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

“We’re so used to them being there they’ve become invisible to us”

Flats on unused purchases (though perhaps no longer, once he reads page 26…)

SCENE

THE LATEST ADVENTURES IN PARTY-GOING ACROSS BATH

ZEST FOR LIFE

Juice Recruitment, founded by Emma and Andrew Summers an amazing 25 year ago how time flies! celebrated their Silver Anniversary of working in ath and, latterly, ristol, ardiff, Swindon et al with a party in the grounds of the Holburne useum he event, attended by all of Bath’s most colourful dressers, was hosted by Bath Life’s very own David Flatman Drinks were served, food scoffed, and dancing lasted into the night, thanks to Soho House D oss ilson

www.adamcarterphoto.com

Vicky Kingston, David Flatman, and Emma and Andrew Summers

Photos by Adam Carter

Rachael Avens, Jill Hawkins and Craig Avens

Paul Hobbs, George Cox, Ahad Khan and Joe Stas

Nigel Laughton, Vivien Simpson and Louise Harvey

Jo Lloyd and Daisy Bortan

Roger Quissin, Marilyn Quissin, Emily Massy and Michael Hayes

Edward, Rachael and Jack Webb

Ewan Jones, Philippa Critchley, Emma Mooney, Oli Chitchely and Caspar Summers

Emma Hallam and Seb Marley

Kerry Milton, Sophie Wainwright, Holly James and Ellie Mahon

We’ll have that full one, please

ADDED VALUE

ne of t e enefits of ein a s onsor at t e Bath Life ar s is a inner to eet fello s onsors an co are notes tal siness an en o fine inin . is ear t e e ent as el at e an as atten e re resentati es fro s onsor co anies incl in ea line s onsor o le ree ilton at ara err air ressin r es ee tone in at i at rian le et or s an oofin .

Alastair Heather

Annie Kelly, Katie Calvert-Jones and Melanie Hunter

Dinner at The Ivy is always a swish affair

Laura Bean and Zara Perry Ellie Hine

Jayson Goodridge, Richard Pratt, Andrew Summers, Pat White, Dan Nichols and Louis Channer

Matthew Drew and Bob Irwin

Matthew Drew, Nicola Fender and Bob Irwin

Photos by Beata Cosgrove www.beatacosgrovephotography.com

Greg Ingham, chief exec of MediaClash, welcomes the guests

HOT TO TROT

The PR database experts Roxhill Media recently hosted a journalist and PR networking summer brunch at THE PIG near Bath. More than 50 people showed up to mingle, chat and enjoy drinks (like raspberry Bellinis made with s ar lin En lis ine an a et ic included mini bacon sandwiches, and crushed minted peas on scones with a quail’s egg.

As Charlie Weiland of Rove PR commented, “Nothing beats face to face conversation, to spark ideas and create opportunities. The hospitality at THE PIG was impeccable as ever! Can’t wait for the next one.”

Abby Richardson Charlie Dyer

Zoe Hiljemark, Georgie Dransfield, Ella Mcdonald and Simon Heptinstall Simon Horsford and Tom Ross

The perfect PIG spread

Alice Smellie

Donna BennettMegan Webber

Impeccable hospitality

Kitty Dimbleby, Rhiannon Batten and Richard Hammond

Angie Moxham, Emma Deeley, Georgina Fuller and Leanne Barton

Photos by Jon Rowley Photography www.jonrowleyphotography.com

Milsom Place is a popular shopping and dining destination located in the heart of Bath. It is home to some of the city’s most innovative independent retailers. These businesses are a testament to the vibrant and diverse community of Bath and help to provide visitors with a unique shopping experience.

Anemone is one of the most popular shops at Milsom Place and for good reason. This charming floristry store has been established in business for many years and has built a reputation for providing beautiful, high-quality blooms for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a stunning bouquet for a loved one or an elegant centrepiece for your next event, Anemone’s talented florists are there to create something special.

The Edit by Studio Walcot is another gem in Milsom Place. This interior design studio offers a wide range of services, from bespoke furniture to full-scale interior design projects. Working with a team of skilled designers and craftspeople, Studio Walcot is able to assist with personalized designs that reflect the individual style and taste of their clients.

If you’re in search of footwear featuring a unique style, look no further than Chanii B Shoes. This boutique store offers a stunning selection of handcrafted designer shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. From dress shoes and classic pumps to trendy sandals and seasonal boots, Chanii B Shoes has a range for everyone.

In need of a fresh new look? NOI can help you find it. This luxury salon offers a full range of hair and beauty services and products,

including colouring, styling, eyebrows and lashes. NOI’s team of skilled stylists are committed to providing their clients with a personalized and professional high-quality service and always aiming to exceed your expectations.

The independents at Milsom Place make a valuable contribution towards creating a retail environment like no other. Visitors are sure to find something that speaks to their personal sense of style and taste. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Bath, a trip to Milsom Place is a must-do on your shopping list.

Anemone

Chanii B

NOI

The Edit by Studio Walcot

IN PERFECT SYNERGY

Synergy, the Bath-based construction and property consultancy, held its annual Bath Summer Networking event for professionals in the construction industry on 8 June. Around 50 guests were welcomed to the Coppa Club on 8 June by Duncan Ball, the managing partner of Synergy, for an evening of networking opportunities, along with a delicious et an rin s.

www.bettybhandaribrandphotography.com

Tommy Thompson, Duncan Ball, James Cottle and Paul Grinham

Maggie Forrester and James McGillivray

Photos by Betty Bhandari

Olivia Muse and Jules Davies

Catherine Windibank and Zali Kelly

Jon Fifield and Steve Bonserg

Carly Mallon, Tobi Lemberg and John Colvin

Hana Barnes, Nicola Du Pisanie and Tony Riddle

Charles Darby and Dougal Anderson

Gavin Irvine, Nathan Ward and Andrew Simpson

Maddie Difazio-Wright and Fabien Coupat

Jennifer Phillips and Graham Johnstone

Mat Twitchen and Sam Auger

Less pants, more party

BIG DIGGERS

The sun shone again for the recent Shindig Festival, which took place in the lovely grounds of Dillington Estate in Ilminster. Across 12 venues, maybe 10,000 revellers lapped up cabaret, street performances, family entertainment and more than 140 music acts, including DJs sets from Huey Morgan and Norman Jay MBE, and turns from Dutty Moonshine Big Band, and Sister Sledge, featuring Kathy Sledge.

They're not off their box at all

This year's theme was

These

Kathy Sledge

look like fun guys

Shindig

certainly brings colour to the

Dillington Estate Norman Jay MBE

Eva Lazarus’ DJ Hazel Marimba

Mad Hatters

Jonathan Pie

Oh My God! It’s The Church (yes, that’s what this act is called!)

Old Time Sailors

Photos by Nathan Roach www.coalpoetmedia.com

GO WEST

The Royal Bath & West Show returned to its Shepton Mallet home at the beginning of June for a three-day rural extravaganza celebrating all things agricultural. From showcasing grassland machinery to the traditional heavy horses, and from dairy shows to music, food stalls, and workshops, the show, which has been running in one form or another since 1777, demonstrated why it’s not only the largest agricultural event in England, but also the best.

There’s something for all age groups

Aizel Finch

The Whiskey Hounds

Photos by Casper Farrell www.casperfarrell.co.uk

Adam Bowen with show champion breed Hereford bull

Sam Smith

The Heavy Horses of A & K Langford

Nigel Spraggins

The Enchanted Spring and Summer Lady

Malcom McDermott

Jules Carter

The Royal Bath & West Show is the largest agricultural event in England

A totally oar-some way to explore the local waterways

MASTERS BOARD MASTERS

By

Lisa Drewe

“We intuitively know that we feel better in ‘blue spaces’”

o to an coast or ri er ‘ ots ot’ in fine eat er and you’ll almost certainly hear paddle boards ein in ate or see t eir colo rf l o tlines oat racef ll across t e ater’s s rface. a lin is fairl eas to learn t e it is a or a le an a o e all it o ers a er si le ro te to ettin o t on t e ater. ac an in ata le for of trans ort in t e oot of a car or on o r ac es t ere are still ar oar s t t e in ata le ariet as oo e in recent ears con ert it into a to rin ac ine at o r c osen estination loa a icnic an en o a a of free o on o r c osen stretc of ater fro ri ers an canals to est aries an la es. to t at a ro of frien s an t o san s of iles of ater a s to e lore in t e an t ere o a e it a a lin oo . e int iti el no t at e feel etter in ‘ l e s aces’ an t e science e in t e ental an sical enefits of ein close to ater is eco in clear. ne ter ‘ l e ealt ’ as een coine an allace ic olls a Californian s rfer an arine iolo ist s s it erfectl en e s ests t at ein on n er or esi e ater res lts in a il l e itati e state c aracterise cal eacef lness nit an a sense of eneral a iness an satisfaction . t’s little on er t en t at a le oar in as eco e so o lar an ore of s are isco erin t is acti it e er a en o in t e ater an en a in e er one of o r senses. atc rin li e atterns for as ea rain ro s it t e ater or t e li t ancin across a ri er’s s rface reat e in t e o one of t e ocean t e s eet s ell of ri er ater an en o t e fres taste of s rin fe la es. e so n of a a le i in eneat t e ater’s s rface t e e t in of ti al cree s eral e t e cries of a in ir s loo in for t eir ne t eal t e entle son of ri ers o in on t eir eternal o rne to t e ocean ll t ese sensor e eriences increase o r ‘ l e ealt ’ an all are elo e a lers. ere isa re e selects a fe local ro tes ta en fro er oo Paddle Boarding South West England: 100 places to SUP, canoe, and kayak in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bristol.

BATH CITY AND PULTENEY WEIR

Unique river-level perspective on Bath’s famous honey-coloured Georgian architecture on a paddle through the city’s industrial heart to spectacular Pulteney Weir and Bridge tart on t e ett alon si e eston oc an a le etres alon t e eston C t ast t e oc s roo nn to oin t e ri er on ere it a es a i e ean er. lon its an s o ’ll notice a i of reen s ace reclai e il in s an are o ses an c clists i in alon t e ristol an on ail a at t at r ns arallel to t e on for ost of t is ro te. n reac in t e ictoria s s ension ri e t e i ersi e Co le on t e so t an is a oo co ee sto it eas e it on t e an st e on t e ri e. Contin e to ar s t e cit centre ast a s se by tour boats then pass under the main roa an rail ri es. o t e ri t ere t e ri er s ee s left o ’ll see t e loc ates of t e ennet an on Canal t en t e s ire an ri ersi e ar en of i ressi e t o n t e E an elist c rc co e into ie . nce n er t e arc of ort ara e ri e loo o er to t e left at t e reen ar lan of ara e ar ens t en contin e to t e eir. ro ere en o ni e ie s of t e Colonna e an ele ant ltene ri e one of onl fo r ri es orl i e it s o s across t e f ll s an on ot si es. o i in t e ar aters t at first a e at o lar it t e o ans a le to t e e e of ara e ar ens to fin a i en o tlet fro t e a t e e tra ri er ee s ro in in its icinit are a i ea a .

Exploring the waterways of Bradford on Avon; INSET: That’s one way to get from BA2 to BA1

BATHAMPTON TO SYDNEY GARDENS

Journey from a spooky 13th-century inn through ornate tunnels, under footbridges, and past landscaped Georgian gardens to see Bath from a different perspective Start from the George Inn, once an ancient monastery and haunted by the ghost of Viscount John Baptiste

Du Barre, a gambling nobleman who died in the last legal duel fought in Britain on nearby Claverton Down. Head right along the Kennet and Avon Canal, past meadows and the manicured gardens and parklands of large Georgian houses where wildlife thrives at the city’s edge. Soon you reach No. 2 (or Sydney ar ens nnel t e first of t o ra e II-listed tunnels by engineer John Rennie, their decorative details stipulated by the gardens’ past landowners.

Other eye-catching features by Rennie along the canal include the Dundas Aqueduct, Caen Hill Locks, and Crofton Pumping Station. Paddle along its 51-metre length and look out for the carved head of Father Thames as you exit. Continue between the stone walls that separate the canal from Sydney Gardens, passing beneath a series of ornate footbridges that criss-cross the canal to reach No. 1 (Cleveland) Tunnel. At 54 metres, it passes beneath Sydney Road and Cleveland House, and at its entrance is a depiction of a water nymph. nce in t e t nnel loo to fin t e one ti e ref se atc for t e House. Continue past the boat hire companies of Sydney Wharf, under the Bathwick Hill bridge, and continue to Sydney (Top) Lock Cottage to see the pretty lock keeper’s cottage before returning the same way.

BRADFORD-ON-AVON TO AVONCLIFF

Glide under a medieval stone bridge, through a tranquil wooded valley to a 17th century riverside inn at Avoncliff, then return along the Kennet and Avon Canal

Start beneath the railway bridge that spans the river Avon, head downstream (left) under 14th-century Barton Bridge and continue alon si e arton ar Co ntr ar . illo s an il o ers line t e an s il life o ris es an lent of ot er paddlers and swimmers enjoy the water here. Reach t e eir at oncli an fin one of t e an e it points onto the left bank. You can leave your craft on the riverbank here and get refreshments at the pub or café before returning the same way. For the full loop, portage a short distance uphill to reach the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath. To visit the pub or café, turn right on the to at or canal to t e oncli a e ct and inn (or walk under the aqueduct to the café). After doubtless much needed refreshments, put in at the south east end of the aqueduct to return along the Kennet and Avon Canal, which is beautiful at any time of the year, es eciall en s rin o ers or a t n folia e is on display. On approaching Bradford-on-Avon, leave the canal when adjacent to the 14th-century tithe barn an al t ro t e ar to ret rn to t e car ar . o fin somewhere to sit for a drink, maybe, and chat about your adventures.

Lisa Drewe is the award-winning author of Islandeering, Island Bagging, and the founder of the website Islandeering. Following a career that included the Foreign Office and National Trust, she is now a full-time writer and photographer. Her latest book Paddle Boarding South West England: 100 places to SUP, canoe, and kayak in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Bristol (Wild Things Publishing, £18.99) is available to order through local bookshops or online at www.wildthingspublishing.com

“Enjoy a day of freedom on your chosen stretch of water”

See Bath from a unique angle; INSET: Taking it steady around Bradford-on-Avon en route to Avoncliff

FROMLEFT: Flamenco dancing with Leticia Balle; a 20 mile circuit of Bath for a good cause; Emma Thynn, Marchioness of Bath, has turned yoga into unexpectedly animal-themed fun

ALL FUN AND GAMES

Ways to get fit, but with a difference

Exercise doesn’t have to be all high erfor ance co etiti e face o s followed by ice baths and quiet sobbing. It can actually also be gentle, inclusive, worthy – and fun. Whether o o e to sic a le o er fiel s or ite literally stretch in front of the TV, we have some options that make working out quite wonderful.

NICE TRY

Life In The Old Dogs; www.lifeintheolddogs.com

Okay, this isn’t inclusive to the under 50s, but given that most competitive sports start to exclude people from this age onwards, this is a great way to get back in the game. The football and tag rugby sessions take place at eec en Cli c ool t e r nnin session at Royal Victoria Park, and the basketball at a esfiel c ool. e sa e ain foc s is to have fun – not to win at any cost! However, we expect the games to be competitive and we will try and match up teams to be equal. We want people to enjoy a great workout, meet new people and certainly make new friends.” There can also be yet-later-in-life sporting prowess afoot, as David James, who helps run the project, e lains r a o organise the whole of tag rugby for the UK. They approached us to see if we had any quality players to compete

for a place in the over 50s GB Alliance squad. o r la ers fro l o s ill no la in t e Tag Rugby World Cup, being held this year at in Limerick University, Ireland, 2 – 5 August.”

CREATURE COMFORTS

Lady Bath’s safari park-themed wellness workout; www.longleat.co.uk

E a nn arc ioness of at as shared her safari park themed wellness workout, inspired by the exotic animals of Longleat, which can be watched and downloaded for free fro t e on leat e site. e sa s ’ e never done my own guided workout before, so

Participants, who pay a ticket price starting at £10, walk a circular route that takes in stunning views overlooking Bath and includes istas fro ittle ols r ill an o t to e illenni ie oint. artici ants can also choose their own distance and start oint t an s to t e fi e c ec oints alon t e route and a free taxi service between each.

Community and events fundraiser Gavin s orn sa s e Circ it of at al is an important event for everyone of all ages. Participants not only get an incredible sense of achievement from walking 20 miles over challenging terrain, but also the knowledge that the sponsorship they raise will help to rebuild lives. By taking part, you are enabling us to support at-risk people in our emergency hostel and domestic abuse refuge. You will be helping to save lives.”

I decided to try and get inspiration from some of t e a a in ani als ere in t e safari ar . ’ e a a te a selection of t e ore traditional yoga positions and come up it t in s li e a ti er stretc an a ira e pose. The workout began as a bit of fun, but I really loved making the video and I’m hoping other people will enjoy it as well.”

The poses, which have been inspired by many of t e ar ’s ani als incl in t e ira es ostriches, and wolves, are designed to be suitable for all abilities.

GOING IN CIRCLES

The 20 mile circuit of Bath walk for Julian House; www.circuitofbathwalk.co.uk

Now in its 22nd year, the 20-mile challenge, ta in lace t is ear on e te er has become an unmissable institution and a vital fundraiser for charity Julian House.

DANCE STEPS

Flamenco classes for all levels; tel: 0770 805 8892

Dancing has long been an easy way to bring about cha-cha-change to our exercise routines, t at a o t consi erin a enco eticia alle is a a enco teac er o learne er craft in a a enco ance sc ool in ra il an as ta t an erfor e in ain an can now be found teaching at Percy Community Centre on e in treet rin ter ti e. eticia sa s e classes are s ita le for all levels, and even from lesson one beginners will learn the posture, the simple movements of the arms and hands, as well as the basic steps for tapping.

la enco is a f ll o or o t an all of my students are surprised to see how it develops and improves not only your stamina, but also your coordination and body awareness.”

“The main focus is to have fun”

THE ARTS

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S CULTURAL LIFE

Corl reno ne artist te tile esi ner an a t or a e assett is ac at t e ictoria rt aller . is e i ition Kaffe Fassett: Timeless Themes– New Quilts ic r ns ntil cto er an ties in it is fort co in oo Kaffe Fassett’s Timeless Themes ill s o case of is lar e an colo rf l ne ilts a orne it c lo e otifs fro is rint arc i es incl in stri es circles ots o ers an folia e. e erican orn on on ase artist sa s o e t at t is e i ition e onstrates t e reat ins iration a e a fro ritis c lt re since settle ere in t e in . t’s a leas re to e e i itin in at a ain an o e t at t is e i ition ill ins ire isitors to create t eir o n ersonal i ts of fantas . For more: www.victoriagal.org.uk

WHAT’S ON

29 July –26 August

EXHIBITIONS

Until 5 August

HOME, HEADS, HANDS, HEARTS, HUMAN

Atelier Ellis on Walcot Street are celebrating the joy of hand-making, dyeing and stitching textiles with an exhibition at its townhouse. Each of the gallery rooms are bathed in in an fille it ar en roses an ot er seasonal oral eli ts. Makers taking part include designer ola el oral artist e artri e and weaver Susie Gillespie. www.atelierellis.co.uk

Until 25 August IMMERSION

a arsons is a at ase contemporary photographer who uses camera movement, abstraction and multiple exposure to bring a painterly and impressionistic style to her pictures. This solo exhibition at r all’s ar follo s a at o gallery. www.shayparsons.com

Until 31 August

STAR-CROSSED MUSEUMS

The Herschel Museum of Astronomy is partnering with the Museum of East Asian Art (MEAA) to celebrate the Japanese

Star Festival Tanabata, which is a time for people to come together and celebrate the power of love. The programme of family friendly activities and events includes wishing strip tanzaku activities, and star origami making at the MEAA, and creating a constellation postcard at The Herschel Museum. www. herschelmuseum.org.uk | www.meaa.org.uk

Until 2 September SUMMER EXHIBITION

New work by a selection of artists including Melanie Goemans, Helen Simmonds, and Nathan Ford. www.beauxartsbath.co.uk

Until 1 October

KAFFE FASSETT: TIMELESS THEMES – NEW QUILTS

World-renowned artist, textile esi ner an a t or a e assett is back at the Victoria Art Gallery with a new immersive exhibition s o casin of a e assett’s large and colourful new quilts, adorned with motifs from his print archives, including stripes, circles, ots o ers an folia e. e s o ties in with his forthcoming book, Kaffe Fassett’s Timeless Themes. Turn to page 33 for more. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 1 October CANDACE BAHOUTH: ENCHANTED VISIONS

Running in conjunction with the Fassett exhibition is Candace a o t ’s or ic incl es a range of extravagantly embellished irrors fillin t e ac all of the gallery, along with fanciful candelabras adorned with birds and ro antic fi res it or s for sale. www.victoriagal.org.uk

Until 1 October PAINTED LOVE

This Holburne exhibition looks at the role of portraiture in the process of marriage in the Renaissance of Northern and Southern Europe. The paintings not only documented the union of spouses, but also celebrate those of families, their wealth, power and land, and forging of political alliances. www.holburne.org

Until 7 October

RICHES OF THE EARTH

This free exhibition celebrates the beauty of solid chemical compounds, with more than a hundred carefully selected mineral s eci ens fro t e at o al iterar an cientific nstit tion’s own collection. www.brlsi.org

Until 22 December CONNECTING THREADS

Taking inspiration from objects in t e se of East sian rt’s collection, students from the Art esi n e art ent of at College were challenged to create garments which would appeal to their generation. www.meaa.org.uk

Until 1 January 2024

GRUPPENAUSSTELLUNG

A multidisciplinary celebration of a ser irt ’s iss erita e with more than 20 artists, including Martin Creed, Cindy Sherman, Richard Jackson, Jason Rhoades, Mika Rottenberg, Ca ille enrot i ilotti ist ieter ot an rn ot . www.hauserwirth.com

Until 7 January 2024

LUCIE RIE: THE ADVENTURE OF POTTERY

This new Holburne exhibition celebrates Lucie Rie (1902–1995), one of the most acco lis e an in ential potters of the 20th century. Featuring work produced across six decades, this display follows t e e ol tion of ie’s st le.

www.holburne.org

Maria Van-Tintelen is just one of the many talented artists exhibiting at the Bath Contemporary Artists Fair at Green Park Station on 13 August

Until 22 June 2024

FROM HONG KONG TO BATH

Subtitled ‘A Lifelong Journey of Collecting’, this exhibition combines a series of rare historical photographs with 30 treasures from the Museum of East Asian Art’s collection to uncover hidden stories of their late founder. www.meaa.org.uk

13 August BATH CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS FAIR

Since its creation in 2020, the Bath Contemporary Artists Fair has showcased more than 600 artists across 13 fairs at Green Park Station, bringing us the best of local conte orar art incl in fine art, photography, sculpture, textiles and more. www.bcaf.co.uk

THEATRE / CINEMA

Until 5 August FRANK AND PERCY

In Ben Weatherill’s new play, starring Sir Ian McKellen and three-time Olivier Award winner Roger Allamlets, we meet Frank and Percy as they discuss the weather, then their dogs, and then each other and so much more. Will the widowed schoolteacher and the elder statesman dare to risk changing their lives, or let sleeping dogs lie? www.theatreroyal.org.uk

14 – 26 August SIX

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales re i in fi e n re ears of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power which has become an international smash hit. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

MUSIC

3 August

DEUX FURIEUSES

Two feminist rebel soul mates, Ros Cairney and Vas Antoniadou, on a mission to comment on the world around them with heartfelt, politically charged songs and delivering energised, memorable live experiences. Komedia; www.komedia.co.uk

6 August

DOMINIKA MASZCZYNSKA

The recital at the Holburne’s acoustically superb Picture Gallery features the debut of a young keyboard artist, Dominika Masczcynska, who will play the Museum’s Schantz fortepiano, accompanied by the equally accomplished Sam Brown on the romantic guitar. Virtuoso pieces include Schubert, Rossini and Giuliani. www.holburne.org

16 – 19 August

BATH

GUITAR FESTIVAL 2023

This year’s classical concert programme features some of the most celebrated international guitarists. The Paraguayan Berta Rojas and the Cuban Marco Tamayo make not-to-be-missed rare visits to the UK, while Colombian Francisco Correa and IGF’s Artistic Director, Tom Kerstens, complete the line-up for three evening concerts. The lunchtime events, meanwhile, present the very best young guitarists in the country, and on Friday there are also two Student Concerts, which close the guitar summer school. www.igf.org.uk

19 August THE SONGBOOK OF MARVIN GAYE STARRING NATE SIMPSON

The show brings you all the biggest hits from the Grammy award winning Prince of Motown, Marvin Gaye, including Let’s Get It On, Sexual Healing, Mercy, Mercy Me, and What’s Happening Brother. Fronted by Nate Simpson, a successful, versatile and

TOPTOBOTTOM: Describing themselves as ‘a freak cabaret’, the Ukrainian Dakh Daughters can be seen performing at WOMAD; on 2 August see the charming Disney animation Encanto performed with a full orchestra at Bath Forum; the Atelier Ellis exhibition in its Walcot Street townhouse is a celebration of handmade textiles

West End performing vocalist who delivers an infectious and energetic performance of a true music legend. www.chapelarts.org

COMEDY

Every Saturday

KRATER COMEDY CLUB

Both up-and-coming and established talent provide the weekend laughs. Previous alumni include Romesh Ranganathan, Tom Allen, Sarah Millican, Daliso Chaponda, and Luisa Omielan. www.komedia.co.uk

Last Monday of the month

THE ELECTRIC COMEDY CLUB

The Electric Comedy Club is Komedia Bath’s monthly showcase, hosted by the brilliantly witty Morgan Rees. Each show features a pro headliner, as well as four rising stars of stan a on st t e finest up-and-coming comedy talent the as to o er. www.komedia.co.uk

CHILDREN

Until 27 August

SUMMER SUNDAYS

Bath Business Improvement

District (BID) are hosting free family-friendly events across the city every Sunday of the month. These include free balloon artist demonstrations, face painting, a Doggie in the Window trail with 25 an felte o s to fin an a n & Space Sunday event on 13 August in partnership the Herschel Society, Toppings, and San Francisco Fudge Factory. www.bathbid.co.uk

Until 19 September

ZOG TRAIL

Thanks to amazing augmented reality technology, you can follow a golden star trail around Westonbirt Arboretum, home to one of the most important plant collections in the world, with 15,000 specimens and 2,500 species. There are also r alo stat es to e s otte a nature play trail and guided walks, along with the treetop walkway. www.forestryengland.uk

2 August

ENCANTO IN CONCERT

The Walt Disney award-winning fil is screene it a f ll orc estra performing the score at Bath Forum. Encanto tells the tale of the Madrigals, an extraordinary family living in a magical house in the Colombia whose existence comes under threat. www.bathforum.co.uk

CLOCKWISEFROMABOVE: The current, extensive multidisciplinary exhibition at Hauser & Wirth includes the neon work of Richard Jackson; celebrate the Japanese Star Festival Tanabata at Bath’s Museum of East Asian Art; as part of their musical mission to comment on the world around them, Deux Furieuses will be calling in at Komedia on 3 August

9 – 12 August

HEY DUGGEE

Be part of the hit CBeebies show and join Duggee and the Squirrels in this new, vibrant, interactive production which was named Best Family Show at the 2023 Olivier Awards, bursting with music, puppets and barrels of laughs for the whole family. See page 38 for our Culture Club chat with Hey Duggee star Benedict Hastings. www.theatreroyal.org.uk

FESTIVALS

Until 30 July WOMAD

Artists from all over the world will perform at Charlton Park in Malmesbury at this major player amongst festivals. Names include Afrobeat dynamo Femi Kuti and his band the Positive Force, Horace Andy, Soul II Soul, Bombay Bicycle Club, and Peruvian ex-culture minister (and three-time Latin Grammy winning singer) Susana Baca. www.womad.co.uk

Until 5 August

THE GARDEN THEATRE FESTIVAL

Holburne Museum Gardens hosts a range of open air shows, so bring a picnic and get immersed in a world

© PHOTO BY STEFAN ALTENBURGER PHOTOGRAPHY ZÜRICH

of fire reat in ra ons car c ases an con icts a es eare alore ea tif l ca aret sla stic la ter at at ’s onl o en air t eatre. erfor ances incl e Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood; a i allia ’s Bad Dad e is Carroll’s The Jabberwocky & Other Nonsense an The Great Gatsby www.gardentheatrefest.co.uk

3 – 6 August

VALLEY FEST

E er one nee s to et on lan r es t e festi al fo n er e asell an e’s not ron . E ect e e to e e o erset s ar le at t e C e alle site an arri e n r as reat foo is er c art of t is festi al’s . lon si e o l o l e oo s ananara a an or an a E loo o t for o r er o n o a a l n of o a’s itc en os E leton fro e on C e alle an ar cCa e of reen ic elin starre e Et ic rean resta rant. www.valleyfest.co.uk

24 August – 16 September

IF OPERA

ro ctions ta e lace in t e a les an t eatre in t e ro n s of elco e Co rt t e st nnin statel o e in ra for on on. ac e ro ra e ic r ns o er ario s ates incl es erto ior ano’s Fedora a a

inf se Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland ill o an t e classic Mikado il ert an lli an. www.ifopera.com

16 & 17 September

VERVE FESTIVAL

ea to atc o se in is r for a ellness reset foc se on nat re an ettin a a fro it all. lon it oo fire sa na col ater l n e ool a oo lan s a it treat ent ca ins an in f lness or s o s o ’ll fin late ni t tents local foo stalls an fi ars. www.feeltheverve.com

OTHER

Until 16 August

BATH ON THE BEACH

ea to o al ictoria ar for a c ille o t se o seasi e en e it eac a es s er coc tails street foo an ice crea s. Entr free t a lts onl after . www.bathonthebeach.co.uk

22 August

ANNA FUNDER

e a t or of t e international estsellers All That I Am an Stasiland isits o in oo sellers to tal a o t er la in enre en in aster iece Wifedom ic tells t e stor of t e ife of eor e r ell Eileen ’ a ness . www.toppingbooks.co.uk

CULTURE CLUB with Benedict Hastings

Actor, puppeteer, musician and singer Benedict Hastings is starring in Hey Duggee The Live Theatre Show, coming to Theatre Royal Bath from 9 –12 August; he both performs the loveable dog Duggee and acts as the show’s narrator. Benedict, who spent most of his childhood in Bath and attended Prior Park College, has worked for the Royal Shakespeare Company in productions of Hilary Mantel’s novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies, as well as stage adaptations of Zog, We’re Going On A Bear Hunt, and What The Ladybird Heard.

My lockdown boxset

I’m very bad at watching a whole series – especially if enough people recommend something to me, then I will never watch it. However, I did watch Normal People during lockdown, and was profoundly changed by the experience. Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones made it all look so effortless – gently and beautifully devastating.

Best TV show ever

Anyone who knows me will know how obsessed I am with The Simpsons. Series 2-11 is undeniable perfection. If I don’t quote them at least once a day, I feel light-headed.

My favourite arts place in Bath

Whenever I’m back I visit the Holburne Museum, walk along the river to Widcombe, and do a section of the skyline walk. But my primary Bath love affair is with its charity shops. I have my ‘route’ through the city, stopping at each in turn. I can’t

tell you the number of weird and undeniably wonderful things they have furnished me with over the years.

The book that changed my life

Natives by Akala. I’m fascinated by British history, but find so much of the dialogue surrounding it incredibly ugly. Akala’s is a voice that should be championed: incisive, articulate and edifying.

The book I could happily re-read

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain. He captures something eternal, ethereal, serious and gleeful about what it means to be a child.

Last live music gig

Oh, how I love live music! The last gig I went to was one of the best in recent memory: Lisa Canny, who combines traditional Irish folk with R&B in a way that is just ridiculously addictive, and Mauvey, one of my favourite artists – anyone who describes themselves as ‘an emotional wreck onstage’ can take my money any day.

My desert island disc Chacarron by El Chombo. He’s a Panamanian reggaeton artist. I love reggaeton (an electronic music form from the Spanishspeaking Caribbean) and this one gets me moving every time.

My karaoke go-to banger Wuthering Heights by Kate Bush. At her pitch. Someone’s got to clear the bar at the end of the night. For more:

www.theatreroyal.org.uk

Hey Duggee Live, withBenedict Hastings lurking behind Duggee

That’s one way to get into the Valley Fest festival, happening 3 – 6 August

BOOKS NIC BOTTOMLEY

Around one hundred years ago (it was probably more like twelve) I reviewed a book here called Buzz Aldrin, What Happened to You in All the Confusion? by Johan Harstad (Seven Stories Press, £11.99). It was set in the milky-lit, almost ethereal, landscape of the Faroe Islands and was packed with atmosphere and repeated homages to the melancholic rock music of The Cardigans. It was a bit strange at times and it certainly wasn’t for everyone, but I fondly remember it; and the thing I remember most is the linchpin to the main character’s outlook on life.

Mattias was obsessed with the idea of Buzz Aldrin and what it must be like to be the second man to set foot on the moon. To see what he’d seen, walk where he’d walked – but to have had just a fraction of the glory, and to have returned to earth entirely in the shadow of Neil Armstrong.

I was reminded of this celebration of the underdog when I heard about French author David Foenkinos’ latest novel, Second Best allic . . is is t e fictional stor of t e o o is r nner to aniel a cli e in the auditions to become Harry Potter. ilst aniel’s life s irals o into fa e fortune and universal recognition, Martin Hill’s stalls and threatens to become forever efine t is one near iss ic t e orl seemingly never ceases to remind him about).

Foenkinos expertly dissects his character’s confusing emotional rollercoaster as Martin and the readers wonder whether the life lived has proven better or worse than the life that slipped by. Second Best is packed with the same mix of humour and drama as the authors earlier novels The Mystery of Henri Pick and our perennial Valentine’s bestseller, The Erotic Potential of My Wife

If there was one writer known for being a runner-up, then it would have to be Beryl

Bainbridge. She was shortlisted for the oo er ri e on fi e i erent occasions t overlooked by the literary establishment each time. The prize even created a special posthumous ‘Best of Beryl’ prize, in which Master Georgie as na e t e ic of er fi e near-misses.

A bizarre footnote to the story of this tardy honour is the excellent song Beryl by former Dire Straits front-man and guitar legend ar no er. is it erin l ric a o nts to a no-holds-barred condemnation of the way Beryl’s writing was under appreciated: “Beryl, was on another level, when she got her Booker medal, she was dead in her grave. After all she gave.”

Master Georgie was set in the Crimean war and added to Bainbridge’s career-long motif of placing intense character studies in a range of key moments in history. The Birthday Boys fictionalise t e final a s of cott’s atte t to reach the South Pole, whilst Every Man for Himself watches a small cast of characters aboard the Titanic as it heads towards its tragic end.

This year, though, it’s one of Bainbridge’s closer to home stories, The Bottle Factory Outing (Abacus, £9.99), that has been reissued in honour of its 50th anniversary.

The novel’s two lead protagonists, Brenda and Freda, work at a male-dominated North London factory attaching labels to wine ottles. e t o o en are er i erent characters – one shy, the other exuberant – and a works-outing to Windsor sees the pair of friends clash before the day takes a dramatic and disturbing turn.

Like much of Bainbridge’s work, it’s raw, hard-hitting and occasionally very funny –and another great showcase for some of those outside life’s spotlight.

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

“It’s raw, hardhitting and occasionally very funny”

Nic shines a spotlight on all those in the distressing shadows of ‘second best’

THE FUTURE OF PRIVATE HOSPITAL CARE IS HERE

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This new facility of medical excellence is quickly becoming the private treatment epicentre for patients in Bristol and the south west of England and Wales. With our individualised, bespoke treatments at the heart of its offering, you will experience expert care within exemplary facilities locally. With an eye on the detail and patient welfare at its core, your stay at NBPH promises to provide the best possible recovery experience.

At the hospital, located just a 30-minute drive from Bristol Airport and very close to both the M4 and M5 motorway junctions and Bristol Parkway train station, you will be welcomed to the outstanding facilities by a member of our exceptional administration team with service that rivals a five-star hotel.

A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE

Specialist care governed by safety will be the hallmark of your hospital treatment. You can expect best-in-class nursing support and clinical facilities delivered in luxurious surroundings and supreme comfort. We have beautiful bedrooms with en-suite facilities to ensure you have a comfortable and private stay with us.

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• Free onsite parking.

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VALLEY FEST

We are stardust; we are golden; and we've got to get ourselves back to the garden . . .

Words by Deri Robins

Photos by Louis Smith; studiowhisk.co.uk

These days, most self-respecting music festivals sell decent grub, while only the dullest of food fests lack the pizazz of live music. However, very few events give both elements equal billing, as they do at Valley Fest, where the vibe is laidback, big-name bands are chosen for their crowdpleasing credentials rather than their edginess factor, and the food is equal to anything you’d fin in a o erset resta rant. e’re not st tal in vendors of superior street food, though there are plenty of those too; we’re talking demos from top chefs, local produce stalls, and hands-on farming experiences.

n at t e er to of t e foo ie ill are t e easts f ll on fine inin l nc es an s ers coo e t e er est in t e est ser e in a stupidly instagrammable yurt called The Tuck Inn. Yes, Valley Fest is fond of puns, and is unafraid to use them; see if you can guess the kissme-quick name it gave to its Dolly Parton-themed pub last year. Clue:

t e si n s o e a o lon e ol in t o int lasses o er o in with beer in front of her . . . oh, maybe we shouldn’t go there.

The festival is held every August on the Chew Valley land belonging to Luke Hasell. Luke’s name is a local byword for organic farming, an e’s a assi e festi al fan li e e er one ro in in o erset Glastonbury was practically a birthright – so combining his two life passions in a single great-tasting music event seemed an obvious move.

And Luke had two big trump cards to play. First, he owned the site itself, which slopes idyllically down to Chew Valley Lake. As a bonus, some celestial hand has intervened to ensure that the sun sets directly behind the Mendip hills each night, bathing the site in a golden glow that a es e er oto loo as if it as ta en at oo stoc .

econ l is close connections it local c efs artic larl neighbour and long-time pal Josh Eggleton, meant that he had a readymade line-up of all-star foodie pals to draw on. In fact, Luke and Josh a alrea one t e est c efs coo in in tents’ conce t at t eir Eat Drink Bristol festivals, held in the city a while back.

n so t e first alle est as la nc e in it f n accessi le an s to el o ance o t e calories a stron fa il frien l i e and the opportunity, though never an obligation, to pause and think about where your food comes from.

“Farming should be a conversation with nature,” says Luke. “Having a festival on a working farm means that people can come and get a better understanding of farming. They can run their hands through the soil. e can o fora in eet t e ani als ic e an oin tal s an workshops on everything from fermenting to cider-making.”

You can do all those things; but you don’t have to. There’s nothing remotely preachy about Valley Fest. Nobody is going to force you to thrust your freshly sequinned festival nails into the earth. Just pick and i fro at’s on o er an o o r o n t in .

Luke and his crew have had nine years to develop the festival, skipping onl t e rea e an last ear t e foo o erin reac e its

a o ee. e it ere leas ra l et een t e o tions efore settlin on an all-stars Feast curated by Josh Eggleton, featuring guest chefs from The Pony, The Kensington Arms, Root and Casamia.

August had been hot, the Chew Valley grass was parched to yellow, and the drinks stalls were doing a roaring trade. As usual the Feasts had sol o t a in a ance an e er seat as occ ie in t e

c nn loo in t oro l en f te it o er arlan s an oles entwined with fairy lights. Tables are always long and communal; as a couple, we squeeze in, initially self-consciously, between boisterous larger ro s it o e are soon on first na e ter s.

e or er of t e en i ers fro t e one on t e e site it t e second course – The Kenny’s raw, crunchy, wonky-looking veg served it crea i e s o e co ’s roe ein ser e first.

Panic sweeps the table. Had we somehow missed the arancini? But no, here it comes, and it’s a smoked haddock special from Rob Howell of oot cris cr l an ar esan ec e on t e o tsi e stic and indulgent within, zinged up to next-level deliciousness by a puddle of burnt lemon. I contemplate licking my plate, wondering if my new friend to my right would mind holding my hair.

A silky trout carpaccio with cool cucumber and subtle smoky notes, from Hugo Harvey of The Pony, slips down a treat, leaving us primed for the main course from The Boss. Nobody does meat like Josh Eggleton. A generous helping of Yeo Valley lamb is served, rosy and succulent, on a dollop of strained yoghurt, with monk’s beard – a grassy, slightly bitter green that seems to be much loved by chefs at the moment; it’s t e sa ire of t e earl s. E en ore e citin l t ere are s eet pickled cockles, a world away from the sharp, vinegary little things I re e er eatin o t of a er cones at t e seasi e. e’re s oc e to see that some of our neighbours have left their sweet, delicious lamb fat; it’s all we can do to stop ourselves from leaning over and spearing it with a fork. But although we’ve become friends, we’re not that close.

fter olis in o a er oo tira is Casa ia c ef i a and draining the last glass of a glorious Aldwick rosé, we lumber out of t e tent an t ro o rsel es onto t e rass s se in a leasin lo to wait patiently for Travis.

t a see a little o to e ritin a o t a o eal fro that has duly popped back down again – it’s a little like running a travel re ie of ri a oon t ile t e en s a i er t e i e an quality will assuredly be the same again this year. Josh will be teaming up it ete anc e of Casa ia t ere’s a ne e en n a oast it Ali Pumfrey from Yeo Valley and Rob Howell, and a collab between Pegs inn fro onn tores an ann o an of i er Caf .

Book now if you want the slightest chance of Tucking Inn.

DINING DETAILS

The 2022 Valley Fest Feast, £55 pp, was a collaboration between The Pony Chew Valley, The Pony, Root, The Kensington Arms, and Casamia. Valley Fest 2023 returns 3 – 6 August. For more: www.valleyfest.co.uk

BATH SPA HOTEL

Unwind in complete luxury and enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens, a fabulous spa and outstanding food. It's the ultimate destination for relaxation in a peaceful corner of Bath city centre.

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

• widcombe •

Established in 2004, The White Hart Inn is now one of the longest running independent restaurants in Bath and a firm favourite on the Bath food scene.

Consistently recognised by the Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, Sawdays, Hardens and The Good Pub Guide

In addition to the main dining room, the large walled garden is one of bath’s best beer gardens and an upstairs dining room, perfect for parties seats 30.  Still a local pub at heart, but with a heavy emphasis on good restaurant quality food, friendly knowledgeable service, good wine and local ales.

FOOD & DRINK

SNAPSHOTS OF BATH’S FOOD SCENE

IN SEASON

VERITY GENCO on the currency of currants

This is the most popular time of year for us to take a trip away and perhaps idle in the heat, but for our farmers, it’s time to gather a central food for our diet – barley, wheat and oats.

Cereal is not the only thing ar este in st t e ont o ers an fresh seasonal produce and vegetable options that need more heat to mature – aubergines, courgettes and tomatoes. British fruit is also in full swing as plums and pears arrive, and t e first fres n t of t e season co es in t e cobnut. We’ve also been enjoying juicy sweet strawberries, peaches, nectarines and apricots. Gooseberries have made a brief appearance in the farmer’s markets, but it’s a jewel-like fresh micro berry that has caught my eye for this month’s what’s in-season produce pick –the currant.

These dainty berries ripen on shrubs midsummer and arrive in glistening arrays of black, red and white. Despite their mouthwatering appearance and miniature mouth-popping sizes, they are not the type

of berries you would eat from the punnet on your car journey home. They are sharp, tart, sli tl s eet t o er an ossi ilities for the seasonal gourmet. The dusky blackcurrant is sour and complex, with a dry red wine tannin a o rin . eir a o r rofile is distinctly spicy and musky, immediately familiar to those who have tasted that French liqueur, créme de cassis.

You can make your own homemade cassis by crushing 332g of blackcurrants into 250g of water on a low heat, adding 250g of sugar, stirring until it fully dissolves, then straining the liquid into 500 ml of brandy, refrigerating for a week before enjoying this homemade i estif. not er fa iliar a o r is a c loved childhood favourite – Ribena, also made from macerating blackcurrants. Dr Vernon Charley, who was a leading scientist at t e ni ersit of ristol first ro ce t e berry-licous blackcurrant syrup in 1938, when he noticed that blackcurrants were high in vitamin C and could be a solution to a lack of such in expectant mothers and children during the Second World War.

Blackcurrants work extremely well when made into a jam, as they’re a high in pectin fruit. I really enjoy vanilla ice cream and a scoop of blackcurrant jam, while more traditional uses for it are in savoury soups and sauces; it also makes a great accompaniment to protein rich meats like lamb and pork. Red and white currants are slightly smaller than blackcurrants, and – although still quite tart –have a subtle sweetness, unlike blackcurrants, t at o sets t e aci it .

Commonly used to garnish sweet patisserie tarts or pavlova, the use of red currants is key to my favourite showstopping dessert. The quintessential pink bread-walled summer pudding is a convenient make-ahead dish that celebrates the summer berry season.

Currants can also be used to make currant syrups, which are a wonderful homemade a to a a o rin to coc tails oc tails and summer sodas.

For recipe inspiration, and a low-sugar homemade Ribena recipe using this season’s fresh currants, head to erit ’s stagram age orthe avour

These jewel-like micro berries come in three different colours and flavours, not just black

LOVE YOUR FOOD

e e onair a tre ’ re iriei and his team of kitchen cupids have swooped into Bath over the summer to fil t e t series of t e Channel 4 hit romance show First Dates at The Botanist on Milsom Street.

re io sl fil e at restaurant locations in London and Manchester, the award winning First Dates is returning later this year with not just a new city backdrop but also brand-new cast members and a format refresh.

re iriei sa s a in t is new series feels special, celebrating a decade of bringing people together on the show, but there’s always more love to be found. They say Bath is the most romantic city in the UK and it’s true, so what better place to set t e scene for ro ance to losso t an t ere

For more: www.channel4.com|www.thebotanist.uk.com

SUMMER ROSÉ

Durslade Vineyard has launched the Maid of Bruton, t e er first s ar lin ine fro its estate in o erset st a fe fiel s e in t e rsla e ar o an Roth Bar & Grill in Bruton.

The English sparkling rosé is made from a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes grown on the estate, and the label has been created by celebrated British artist, Catherine Goodman, who co-founded the Royal Drawing School with King Charles III.

And how does the £35 a bottle wine taste? Well, the Bruton-based team say it “exhibits a lovely nose of a n ant erries es stone fr it an ints of citr s zest and orange blossom. On the palate it is fresh and nicely balanced, exhibiting pink grapefruit, berries and e en a int of r ar .

For more: www.dursladefarmshop.co.uk

A NEW ANGLE

Mae Dionio, a chef originally from Bath and now based at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire, recently undertook an educational exploration of Norway.

Mae joined chef and presenter Michel Roux, MasterChef: The Professionals winner Nikita Pathakji, and other top emerging chefs from the UK to explore the wild northern territory of Norway, taking a trip through ars inter lan sca es isitin fior s an o ntains to e lore fis in co nities that have remained the beating heart of the country for thousands of years.

Mae says, “It’s been really interesting to learn about the provenance and processing

of seafood from Norway – often using the ole fis it ini al asta e. fo n it fascinating to see what they do with the entire t in fro t e ton e an li er to t e es .

Mae secured her place on the trip, which was organised by the Norwegian Seafood Council, by winning 2023’s Young National C ef of t e ear. er first lace is es ere a fiel en’s e it s roo le on rass an in er tea confit salte Norwegian cod with piquillo pepper, garden courgette, crispy salted cod and chorizo ran a e s ellfis sa ce an a le tarte tatin with miso ice cream.

For more: www.seafoodfromnorway.co.uk

Dinner Dates Fred Sirieix is already smitten with Bath; INSET: It’s a cheesy kind of love heading to The Botanist

Mae with seasonal Norwegian cod

Durslade Vineyards has launched its first sparkling wine

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Work from local artists and makers

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T: 01225 571711 E: info@homefrontinteriors.co.uk

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Ethical, Sustainable & Handmade Homewares and Gifts

Honey Willow is a Bath family run jewellery business. We make meaningful, personalised jewellery celebrating loved ones and life’s milestones. Jewellery that customers love to give and receive. All handmade to order in our Bath workshop. Visit us on Pulteney Bridge or view the whole range online.

8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath BA2 4AX 01225 422339 www.honeywillow.com

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

SHOPPING

HOT PINK

This is the summer to think pink. And we’re not talking a little blush here and a touch of rose there – we’re talking hubba bubba bubblegum pink. And it’s all down to the recent release of the new movie Barbie, starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as her bleach blonde plastic companion Ken. This celebration of the 1959 Mattel doll has unleashed a cascade of the lurid, vibrant, and electric shades tumbling down every top designer’s catwalk, including that of Valentino and Versace. So let’s give it up, and let’s go Barbie!

Grenada bikini by Melissa Odabash, £256, from The Dressing Room, 7 Quiet Street, Bath; www.dressingroombath.com

DAISY HAIR CLIP BY KANEL, £24 i in o ern sensi ilities it retro s a es t e ais air cli anis la el anel isa ot in an s ar l stone st a e.

From Found, 17 Argyle Street, Bath; www.foundbath.co.uk

BARBIE BROOKLYN REFRESH, £4.98 e ar ie ‘ roo l n o erts oll co lete it in s irt it a C ra ic an on tren sil er etallic s irt an o fres ite snea s.

From Jollys House of Fraser, 13 Milsom Street, ath www.houseoffraser.co.uk

E’

BEBE SHOES IN FUCHSIA, WAS £165, NOW £99.98 a e it to anot er le el it t ese s o sto in latfor eels in t e o tstan in l ea tif l s a e of f c sia.

From Chanii B, 9 Milsom Place, Bath; www.chaniibshoes.com

SKATER DRESS SIZE 10, £85 f n an are in s ater ress erican esi ner saac i ra i t is si e ar ain co es in e cellent re o ne con ition.

From Love Alice, Unit 7 Old Mill Business Park, Station Road, Bruton; www.love-alice.co.uk

HEDGEHOGS SOCKS BY MISS SPARROW, £7.99 oft a oo soc s for lti ate co fort an a orne it e e o s for e tra c teness.

From Flock Bath, 12 - 13 The Corridor, Bath; www. ock ath.co.uk

Eot on t e i eels of t e s as o ie Barbie co es ar iecore

PRINTED COTTON T-SHIRT PINK BY DSQUARED2, WAS £215, NOW £109

Crafte in cotton erse in a s oc in in an feat rin a stri in s ra aint e ect lo o rint across t e c est.

From John Anthony, 26-28 High Street, Bath; www.john-anthony.com

iPHONE 13 CASE BY MULBERRY, £115 a e rin tones a notc it t is in ea rain ltra st lis one case.

From Mulberry, 38 Milsom Street, Bath; www.mulberry.com

ESSENTIEL ANTWERP DORSEY DRESS, WAS £230, NOW £161

An easy to wear mini dress it a atterin ra e ect o ice ointe collar an ee nec line. it elicate leatin it cinc es in at t e elasticate aistline efore fallin to a o nc s irt it ra e s lit e .

From Square, 12 New Bond Street, Bath; www.squarebath.uk

BAHIA SANDALS BY CACATOÈS, £35

ese ra ilian neon in san als a e entirel of rec cla le lastic are also ite ran o l can scente .

From Grace & Mabel, 3 George Street, Bath; www.graceandmabel.co.uk

ITALIAN LEATHER HANDBAG WITH ZIP, £45 Cl tc si e tassel a i eno to fit o r essentials an st lis eno to acco an o e er ere.

From Portman, 28 Milsom Street, Bath; www.nickieportman.co.uk

THE FAVOURITES

Local indie shop owners select the products that best represent them, and what they do…

What does it say about you? Moustache is a small French manufacturer of high quality electric bikes. They’ve come from a mountain biking background, and their passion shows when you pay close attention to the welds and construction, while the rich colours demonstrate their – and our – ethos of style and practicality (with some fun mixed in). They aren’t about mass production, but quality bikes to make you smile.

www.takechargebikes.co.uk

THE FAVOURITE

CHRYSOBERYL AND PRINCESS CUT DIAMOND TRILOGY RING

Picked by: Michael Parsons, director of Gold & Platinum Studio, 19 Northumberland Place, Bath, BA1 5AR What is it? A ring made in-house, using a yellowish green chrysoberyl sourced from Sri Lanka, £3,950. Why’s it so cool? I’ve picked this primarily because of its colour, but also because it’s an unusual gemstone with a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale (almost as durable as sapphire). It seemed apt to make the ring in platinum with princess cut diamonds in an Art Deco style, as this stone was often set in jewellery in the ’20s and ’30s (though it was then called ‘chrysolite’).

What does it say about you? We’re an independent jewellery studio, with a team of highly skilled goldsmiths keen to create one-of-a-kind pieces, and this represents the quality of workmanship and materials we offer www.goldandplatinumstudio.co.uk

THE FAVOURITE MOUSTACHE SAMEDI XROAD FS 7

Picked by: David Tod, owner of Take Charge Bikes, 1 Victoria Buildings, Lower Bristol Road, Bath, BA2 3EH

What is it? A full suspension electric adventure bike from France, at a hefty£5,099.

Why’s it so cool? It’s something a bit different: not a mountain bike nor a hybrid city bike, but something in between. No, it’s not cheap, but you do get a lot of bang for your buck – and a sturdy bike capable of handling many terrains. The powerful Bosch CX motor is ready to provide assistance when needed, and it comes with the new osch yon computer too: think touch screen, navigation, Bluetooth compatible…

ABOVE: David Tod with his very fancy (and rather clever) bike; RIGHT: Michael Parsons and a striking ring

THE FAVOURITE RESILIENCE BANGLE IN SILVER AND DIAMONDS

Picked by: Rhiannon Hamilton, owner of Honey Willow, 8 Pulteney Bridge, Bath, BA2 4AX

What is it? A handcrafted bangle, to order, in sterling silver with conflict free diamonds, Why’s it so cool? This is one of my favourite pieces that we do, with seven diamonds for luck oth circles and diamonds symbolise strength, and this bangle reminds the wearer of how strong and resilient they are

What does it say about you? We’re a local family business, named for my daughters, and we handcraft meaningful jewellery to celebrate loved ones and life’s significant moments for customers worldwide e’ve a workshop in central Bath, a shop on Pulteney Bridge, and look forward to making jewellery that tells your story www.honeywillow.com

THE FAVOURITE BLACK FUCHSIA RAYON

Picked by: Bidhya Rai, creative assistant at Chanii B Shoes, 9 Milsom Place, Bath, BA1 1BZ

What is it? his versatile ayon strap heeled sandal in fuchsia and black is sure to grab attention wherever you go he te tured block heel adds an edgy touch, Why’s it so cool? Chantal Pilon, the creative mind behind the design, has designed this shoe right here in ath o ensure top notch quality, the leathers are carefully sourced from tanneries across Europe, while production takes place in ortugal using small, family run factories, dedicated to preserving the art of shoe making What does it say about you? We’ve chosen this shoe because we believe it’s what ladies need in their wardrobe to spice up the season he half inch platform makes it easy to strut in, and the bootie style upper allows for e tra support All in hanii ’s signature colour scheme too www.chaniibshoes.com

“This bangle reminds the wearer of how strong and resilient they are”

ABOVE: Rhiannon Hamilton’s Resilience bangle comes beautifully presented; INSET: Rhiannon herself; RIGHT: Striking sandal at Chanii B

Independent Lifestyle shop in Widcombe Parade

Gifts, Home, Clothing and Wellbeing. Sustainable, Ethical, Unusual and Beautiful

Open 10am–5pm, Monday - Saturday lucaandfig@gmail.com • 01225 571827 • www.lucaandfig.com

AWARD-WINNING MAKEUP CLASSES

We have been teaching people how to achieve a 3–5 minute daily routine for over eight years in our studio in Bath. Now with 4,000 people taught our bespoke routine, we are offering it to a wider audience with virtual makeup classes by our experienced and friendly teachers.

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20 Broad Street, Bath BA1 5LN | 01225 310849

THE FAVOURITE WABI SABI JEWELLERY

Picked by: Jody Cory, managing director, Jody Cory Goldsmiths, 9 Abbey Churchyard, Bath, BA1 1LY

What is it? This range of bespoke jewellery, designed in our in-house workshop, is inspired by the Japanese wabi-sabi style, which happily accepts transience and imperfection. Perfectly imperfect, each piece is as unique as we are, £125.

Why’s it so cool? Because it’s unique and bespoke, and shows off my love of organic and asymmetric style

What does it say about you? The metal we supply is recycled and fair trade, and our diamonds are conflict free I aim to provide the best product at the best price, so everyone can enjoy something beautiful his piece, I think, encapsulates much of that.

www.jodycory.co.uk

THE FAVOURITE BUTTERCUP PENDANT

Picked by: Nicholas Wylde, owner, Wylde Jewellers, 12 Northumberland Place, Bath, BA1 5AR

What is it? 18ct yellow gold pendant, featuring a central 0.28ct Wylde Flower Diamond®, made at our Wylde workshop in the Bath store, £1,850.

Why’s it so cool? This delicate, shimmering gold buttercup pendant is the perfect piece for the summer months versatile enough to wear every day, with any outfit he central stone uses our unique, patented facet cut, which presents a central flower shape when the diamond is viewed from above his sparkling gemstone brings together two symbols of love and romance flowers and diamonds! What does it say about you? e pride ourselves on being the family jeweller’, providing a personal service that may begin with an 18th birthday present and then e tend to engagement, wedding and anniversary tokens of love, as our clients’ lives progress Our buttercup pendant is a very good example, a piece to span the generations. www.nicholaswylde.com

ABOVE: Jody Cory sports a necklance, bangle and other pieces from her Wabi Sabi range; RIGHT: Nicholas Wylde’s shimmering Buttercup Pendant with (INSET) Nicholas himself

“I aim to produce the best product at the best price, so caneveryone enjoy something beautiful”

THE FINEST IN LINGERIE, BEACH & NIGHTWEAR

7 Quiet Street Bath BA1 2JU | T: 01225 330563

E: info@dressingroombath.com www.dressingroombath.com |

SALLY NARROWBOATS

Invite you to cruise the kennet and Avon Canal. Our holiday boats range from a intimate two berth up to a larger 10 berth family boat. You can travel down to Bath for a long weekend or if you have more time travel east and take on the Caen Hill flight.

DAY HIRE • WEEKLY & SHORT BREAKS

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SKIPPERED CRUISES • CREAM TEAS

Holiday hire on one of our traditional narrowboats: 01225 864923

Enquires@sallynarrowboats.co.uk www.sallynarrowboats.co.uk

THE FAVOURITE RECYCLED PICTURE FRAME

Picked by: Anthony Reed, founder and director of The Looking Glass of Bath, 91-95 Walcot Street, BA1 5BW

What is it? A recycled picture frame, assorted prices. Why’s it so cool? We have been trading for 40 years on Walcot Street, making and designing picture and mirror frames and building a reputation for supplying both contemporary and traditional designs, predominantly for London interior designers. However, we’ve accumulated in our workshop and store rooms vast quantities of pictures, frames and surplus picture framing stock, which manager Paul Robinson and I have now decided to sell. What does it say about you? There are at least a thousand picture frames which we need to clear, since we’ve always kept surplus frames rather than throw them away. The main ethos of the business is to try and recycle frames and glass that we’ve removed from pictures that have come in to be newly framed. www.lookingglassofbath.co.uk

THE FAVOURITE GHANAIAN BOLGA SHOPPING BASKET

Picked by: Vanessa Clark, owner, Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP

What is it? Handwoven Ghanaian shopping basket, ethically produced using natural materials and dyes, £70. Why’s it so cool? It’s been handwoven by expert artisans in Ghana, using the indigenous veta vera plant, making it hardwearing and a once-in-a-lifetime purchase. This versatile basket is lightweight and comfortable to hold, so makes a great shopper, but it’s also large enough to be equally useful as a storage basket. It arrived in the shop last week, and I just love it and what it represents. I’ve been a stockist of Aarven (formerly known as Artisans & Adventures) for a number of years now, and love how they are a sustainable brand that supports small communities. What does it say about you? We’re a homewares store that follows a simple ethos: to source ethically made and sustainable products by a mix of local artists and makers and fair trade products from around the world. The shop may be small, but it is a treasure trove of beautiful things –of which this is a prime, and very summery, example. www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

ABOVE: Paul Robinson, manager of The Looking Glass of Bath;

RIGHT: Vanessa Clark of Homefront with her Ghanaian bag

“It arrived in the shop last week, and I just love it and what it represents”

THE FAVOURITE MR B’S READING CLUB: THE CRIME SYNDICATE

Picked by: Hannah Rials Jensen, children’s and schools lead, senior bookseller, Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 13-15 John Street, Bath, BA1 2JL

What is it? We scout the country, interrogate publishers, and inspect our bookshelves to select our most anticipated piece of crime writing each month. It could be anything from a Golden Age mystery to hard-boiled noir, but each book delivered to your door will have the Mr B’s seal of approval and arrive wrapped in our criminally magnificent gift wrap a rap sheet, if you will ! lub memberships can be monthly rolling per month or be prepaid for months , months or months

Why’s it so cool? he rime Syndicate is our newest product, and we’re so over the moon with it and the response we’ve had from customers. Our bespoke reading subscription has been such an integral part of our shop for so long, and this idea of a reading club has been in the pipeline for a few years now.

What does it say about you? Mr B’s is a beautiful, energetic and innovative bookshop in the heart of Bath that’s been twice named the UK’s best independent bookshop. For years we’ve been honing our craft as your personal guide through the literary landscape, and now we’re pouring every ounce of our investigative powers into seeking out the very best in newly published crime fiction www.mrbsemporium.com

THE FAVOURITE MARIE JO, JANE

Picked by: Tessa Brand, owner, The Dressing Room, uiet Street, ath, A

What is it? Plunge bra and shorts in Bois de Rose, and

Why’s it so cool? It’s our best seller It’s a really great fit, comes in si es and three standard colours along with

various seasonal limited edition colours , and it’s from a Belgian company we’ve been selling for 38 years… What does it say about you? It’s quite hard to say, really after all, we’re talking about bras and knickers! But I guess it says that practical, everyday lingerie doesn’t necessarily have to be bland. People assume that all we sell is ‘fancy’ and wildly expensive items, and whilst I agree that the prices are high, it’s also true that you get what you pay for – and that good lingerie can completely alter the look of a dodgy outfit And it can also change your mood it really does make you feel good rust me! www.dressingroombath.com

THE FAVOURITE SARAH TURRELL POTTERY

Picked by: uci assels, owner, uca Fig, idcombe arade, A What is it? A beautiful range of pottery created in ath by Sarah urrell sarahspotterybath , various prices

Why’s it so cool? Sarah came into the shop just after we opened, asking whether we’d be interested in stocking her pottery – well, one look and it was a no-brainer. I’ve consistently had her stuff in stock for three years now and everyone loves it. The glazes are amazing, the variety of pieces is great and the prices, considering it’s all handmade, really reasonable – and it’s always great to support local women in business, too.

What does it say about you? I source all the products in the shop, some local and some from further afield, but all produced ethically Sustainability is key! I love it when I come across something lovely that I haven’t seen anywhere else, and my customers also love finding something special and unusual when they visit – and Sarah’s work is a prime example.

@ a wid om e

“Well, one look and it was a no-brainer”

TOP: Tessa Brand with her friends Mary Jo and Jane; LEFT: Blood is practically dripping from Hannah Rials Jensen’s book stack at Mr B’s; INSET: Sarah Turrell pottery at Luca & Fig in Widcombe

NETWORK

AWARDS

BEST RESTAURANT

HOSTS BANES BUSINESS SHOW

FOR THE NEW GREEN PARK STATION MANAGER

MEANT SO MUCH

DISRUPTERS, AI, AND INTELLECTUAL THINKING

GETTING INSIDE THE MINDS OF ENTREPRENEURS AT ENTRECONF 2023

ENTER THE ENTRECONF

By Matt Bielby

On a hot day in Bristol’s waterside Watershed, MediaClash hosted its first in person EntreComf event, a day of keynote speeches, interviews, panels and interactive sessions aimed directly at entrepreneurs, following two virtual versions launched during the lockdowns of recent years. To say it was a triumph would actually be to undersell it, as unlike so many business conferences this was all thriller, no filler honestly, even the dullest of the sessions was not dull at all – and thankfully free of both marketing jargon and out-of-control egos Instead, a range of confident, capable people from local businesses of all si es, and those outfits that seek to support them, talked about successes earned, lessons learned, business philosophies and real-world disasters to a rapt, engaged audience of peers, hosted almost entirely by MediaClash chief exec Greg Ingham.

To begin, a new take on that hardy perennial: the experiences, challenges and successes of women in business

.

Sahar Hashemi

OBE, founder of Buy Women

Built – an initiative designed to get us all proactively supporting female created companies – certainly got many present thinking, not least through some telling stats: we’ve 30 per cent fewer female entrepreneurs than comparable economies like the United States and the Netherlands, which is costing our economy around £200BN a year.

Next up, a piece on Funding the Dream with Graham MacVoy of Wake the Tiger, the striking Bristolbased visitor attraction (think an amusement park, but not quite), was full of intriguing visuals and some equally striking opinions: “I dress up for no-one anymore,” he told us. His Saturday afternoon sartorial stylings haven’t stopped him attracting admirable levels of backing, however.

On a similar theme, he was followed by Alex Lloyd, a Partner at law firm urges Salmon, who gave us The Entrepreneur’s Playbook, subtitled Lessons Learned on the Path from Inception to Exit

THESE TALKS ALL took place in a large, airy, slightly greenhouse-like room called Waterside 3, but we now retired to the happily air-conditioned cinema for a talk from David Faulkner ryant of he Visa O ce on helping start-ups get crucial staff into the country, before the first of the main events: a keynote conversation between Greg and Nigel Toon, founder of Graphcore, the Bristol-based international builder of the hardware needed to run AI programs, and now a genuine ‘unicorn’ business (a term describing private startups valued at over $1bn).

Graphcore sees itself as a feisty disruptor, albeit a giant one, and Nigel’s thoughts on AI and the future it will usher in were (perhaps inevitably) exciting, frightening and confusing all at once. Not bad for a business idea hatched over dinner at Bath’s Marlborough

Tavern a few years ago. At least one fear was put to bed, though: there will be no Singularity any time soon. “That’s bollocks,” said Nigel, emphatically.

Next, a panel of four from Link Stone Advisory, British Business Bank, Growth Lending and Unividual talking about funding entrepreneurs in Seed to Scale

PHEW. TIME FOR LUNCH –perhaps inevitably, somewhat rushed – and a little bit of networking before the afternoon sessions began. They did so with Ebba Lepage and Dylan Samuel from Lombard Odier talking B Corps: what they are, and whether it might be a good idea to become one. (The consensus was ‘probably yes’, and though it’s highly rewarding, and not necessarily easy, “it’s not as arduous as it may seem”.)

Giving Greg a short rest, Elly Rowley of NatWest hosted a sister piece to the session that had kicked off the day, but this time looking at the barriers of entry to entrepreneurship for ethnic minorities rather than women. Intriguing examples were given by Latoya Adlam of Kitchen Cosmetics, a beauty brand, and Poku Osei of Babbasa (a Bristol social enterprise designed to support underrepresented young people) in Meet the Trailblazers, where we learned of the need for broad shoulders, and the dangers of assuming too much: Black fronted, with a Black workforce, and using ancient African remedies for inspiration, Latoya nevertheless found herself with a 72 per cent

white audience, and so in a quandary. Should she subtly reposition the brand accordingly?

NOW CAME THE CENTREPIECE

of the afternoon, Greg’s talk with Zillah Byng-Thorne, ex-CEO of international (but traditionally Bathbased) media giant Future, magazine specialists suffering badly on her arrival, but which she grew from a market cap of around £27m (and no profit being made into a bn company. Honest about her failings – “what I think of as straight talking can be seen as blunt,” she said, while one tale of a management bonding session gone dramatically wrong was eye-opening – and clear about her strategies, in which the power of a clear message repeated regularly loomed large, Zillah cut both a more impressive and more vulnerable figure than many e pected, with her insights and experiences truly a highlight of the day.

Following Zillah, David Kelly of Bath-based Storm Consultancy hosted a panel with reps from the likes of Meshii WiFi and Farleigh Performance, to talk about the power of collaboration, a free-wheeling chat that took in the different types of personality you get in businesses, and how they can complement each other: one risk averse, the other a risk taker, for example, is a good combo.

Finally, Stay Hungry by Dimo Dimov of the University of Bath –the professor being a star of previous virtual EntreConfs – rounded things off on a refreshingly different note, less in-the-trenches and more free-thinking and intellectual. The experiences of Ernest Shackleton (long a favourite of motivational speakers) made an appearance, but then so did eff e os and arcel Proust. A pleasantly unexpected end to a jam-packed day, one heaving with roadmaps and ideas, and sure to establish this event as a valued staple of the local business scene.

For more: www.entreconf.com

THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN…

EntreConf: all talks are available for free at www.entreconf.com

EntreConf dinners: autumn and spring, details on site

EntreConf Awards: 28 September, Bristol Museum

The first real-life, in-person incarnation of the fast-growing entrepreneurs’ conference EntreConf 2023 takes place

The first IRL EntreConf took place on 22 June

Who’s up next? Looks like Zillah Byng-Thorne

MEETING OF THE MINDS

So, you’ve read all about it (on the other side of this spread, no less); now get something of the flavour of what the first ever I EntreConf conference was like on this page – and make your plans for next year.

Photos by Jon Craig Instagram @joncraig_photos

David Kelly, Dom Beaven and Jane Ingham

Simon Vincent, Latoya Adams, Andrea Szell and Elly Rowley

Dimo Dimov and Greg Ingham

Lauren Couch

Greg Ingham gets the party started Dani Andres

Cherie-Anne Baxter

Chris Thompson, Sammy Butt, Chris May and David Kelly

Robert Nye

Nathan Baranowski and Helen Rich

Goughs are working with the charity FearLess

LENDING SUPPORT

Goughs Solicitors have announced their partnership with FearLess, a charity working to break the cycle of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking across Wiltshire and the South West. e la fir ic as se en o ces across t e region, will be taking part in a variety of events and challenges to help raise money, including the Bath Half in October.

BUMPY START

Goughs partner Emma Taylor says, “We are delighted to be able to work with such a forwardthinking charity that looks as much to the future of the individuals it supports as it does to supporting them in the present. We look forward to seeing what the year ahead brings, and what we can achieve collaboratively.”

For more: www.goughs.co.uk | www.fear-less.org.uk

ON THE UP

PROFESSOR RACHID HOURIZI (right), director of the Institute of Coding (IoC) at the University of Bath, has been awarded Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the recent King’s Birthday Honours. Under his guidance, the IoC has been credited with breaking down barriers to digital learning, and since 2018 has enjoyed successful collaborations with more than 300 employers, 35 universities, and 20 outreach partners.

www.instituteofcoding.org

CLEARLY, the public relations, social and digital media agency based in Bath, has been awarded the prestigious PRCA DARE Award for the Best Medium Sized PR Consultancy in the South West for the third consecutive year. Clearly will now compete with fellow regional winners from across the country for the same category at the PRCA’s national Grand Prix awards in London later in the year.

www.clearlypr.co.uk

THE FLOWER SHOW

The retirement village in Corsham, Wadswick Green, has won the Garden Landscaper Award at the inaugural Housing with Care Awards held in London on 9 June.

The Ethical Property Company that manages Green Park Station has welcomed Mark Hill to the team. And it’s certainly been ‘in at t e ee en ’ for ar it oo s stor s t e c ela e an beleaguered work on the roof, and then a quite unexpected (and pretty serio s fire all a enin it in ont s of ar startin .

He says, “It’s been inspiring to watch how this community has pulled together after facing such adversity, and how supportive the people of Bath have been, recognising what an important role Green Park Station plays as part of the heart and soul of Bath.

“I am proud to be a part of a thriving community of local independent organisations, celebrating how creative and brilliant at is. reen ar tation o ers a on erf l arra of s o s an laces to eat incl in ar ets t at o er e er t in fro t e finest of ingredients to wonderful art.”

For more: www.ethicalproperty.co.uk

Keith Turnbull, village manager at Rangeford Villages’ Wadswick Green, who collected the award on behalf of head gardener at Rangeford Villages, Chris Liversidge, says, “This award is recognition of the hard work and innovative ideas that Chris and the team have put into creating beautiful surroundings for our residents to enjoy.

“Chris has designed the landscape in such a way that there is no solid barrier around the development, allowing the wildlife, residents, and locals to freely roam in and around the village and the surrounding countryside, whilst at the same time protecting and enhancing the area’s environment and biodiversity.”

For more: www.rangefordvillages.co.uk

Mark Hill (centre) with Kim and Budd from Muw Shed

Keith Turnbull with the Garden Landscaper Award at the recent Care Awards

The thoughtfully designed grounds at Wadswick Green

BUSINESS DIARY

6 SEPTEMBER Bath Property Awards, nominations close; www. bathpropertyawards.co.uk

25 SEPTEMBER

Bath Life Network Lunch with Bath Rugby’s chief executive Tarquin McDonald at the Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; www.eventbrite.co.uk

28 SEPTEMBER

The inaugural EntreConf Awards are being held at the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery; www.entreconf.com

2 OCTOBER Bath Life Network Lunch; www.eventbrite.co.uk

3 NOVEMBER Bath Property Awards; www. bathpropertyawards.co.uk

9 NOVEMBER

An exciting day! The Bath Life Awards nominations open; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

PEDAL POWER

tea fro la fir tone in as raise ore t an for c arit after c clin fro at to on on. e c clists co ere t e ile istance on ne an it t eir e al o er raisin one for Cancer esearc . ine ri ers too art settin o t fro t e fir ’s at o ce at er oro alls an finis in at its on on o ce in t e ar ican. ere as also a ersonal reason for t e tea ’s f n raisin e e ition tone in c air lison llen n er ent treat ent for cancer last ear an or anise t e e ent. e sa s e no t at t is isease a ects one in t o of s an a e tre el fort nate to enefit fro t e e a o nt of researc t at as one efore e. an f ll for an eo le to a cancer is not a eat sentence eca se of t e life sa in researc f n e c arities li e C an t is ri e is a ositi e e onstration of t at. For more: www.stoneking.co.uk

BUSINESS CLASS

ni ersit of at recentl oste t e at ort East o erset siness o it ore t an siness lea ers e erts an co anies fro a i e ran e of sectors in atten ance. e t o a e ent on ne as el at t e ne c ool of ana e ent il in in Cla erton o n an feat re e i itions or s o s for s an net or in o ort nities. o ics co ere incl e ener an siness t e isitor econo an eo le iss es cli ate en iron ent an s staina ilit social al e an t e i ital orl an c ers ace. E ent irector ete llison sa s is as t e first o ort nit to r n t e at ort East o erset siness o an as one it t e el an s ort of o r artners s onsors an e i itors incl in t e ni ersit of at at ort East o erset Co ncil siness est ransfor E an ction et ero.

e’re o in to e ac in it a ne t o a ro ra e of e ents an elco e e en ore of t e E siness co nit to e in ol e an oin t e con ersation a o t t e ric stor of siness in E .

For more: www.business-shows.co.uk | www.bath.ac.uk

“WE KNOW THAT THIS DISEASE AFFECTS ONE IN TWO OF US”

ALISON ALLEN Stone King

More than 600 people attended the two-day Bath & North East Somerset Business Show held at Claverton Down

The Stone King cycle team consisted of Alison Allen, Philip Askew, Andrew Banks, Ollie Daw, Sophie Pughe, Frances Reynolds, Jamie Telling, Jessica Ventham and Peter Woodhouse

IS IT TIME TO REVIEW YOUR PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS?

The ta benefits of making pension contributions can be significant, and with the announcements in the udget earlier this year which increased the annual allowance and abolished the lifetime allowance, it is more important than ever to make sure you are making as much use of your allowances as possible e have highlighted below a few key points to consider

Personal Pension Contributions

As a reminder, ersonal ension ontributions made by individuals are paid net’ of basic rate income ta , since H evenue ustoms H pay the ta into the pension scheme For e ample, if you pay , into your pension scheme during the year, H will add , to that, giving a total gross’ contribution to your pension scheme of ,

For basic rate ta payers therefore those with total income of up to , for the current ta year ending April , there is no additional ta saving by making pension contributions, since ta relief is given at source

Higher rate ta payers, however, can claim an e tra of the gross contribution from H sing the e ample above, a higher rate ta payer can claim an additional , from H on the , contribution paid For additional rate ta payers those with ta able income above , for the year , the e tra relief would be , Higher and additional rate ta payers can therefore benefit from potentially significant ta savings by making pension contributions

Is there a limit to the amount of pension contributions I can make?

he current annual allowance the ma imum gross contributions which can be made to a pension scheme in the ta year is , ,

meaning that any contributions which e ceed , gross will suffer a ta charge on the e cess at the individual’s marginal rate his annual allowance is reduced for high earners, tapered by for every that an individual’s income e ceeds , subject to a minimum allowance of , here an individual is a member of a scheme but, during a ta year the amount they contribute to their pension is less than the annual allowance limit for that year, the unused balance for those years may be carried forward up to three years and used on a first in, first out’ basis

As well as the annual allowance, there is potentially a lower limit on the amount on which an individual can claim ta relief on personal contributions made to their pension scheme his limit is the greater of:

a the individual’s K relevant earnings’ for the ta year broadly, the level of their salary and or self employment partnership income and

b , gross rior to April , there was also a lifetime allowance’ set at , , which limited the amount of pension contributions which could be made or benefits accrued during an individual’s lifetime, but this was abolished in the arch udget here are also restrictions on the level of pension contributions that can be made when an individual is already in drawdown on a pension

What about contributions from my own limited company?

It is relatively common ta planning for those operating their businesses through limited companies to receive a modest salary from their company and top up’ their income by other means e g by way of dividends y doing this, it does limit the level of personal pension contributions on which ta relief can be claimed In this situation, consideration can be given to the company making an employer pension

contribution to a pension scheme for the director s his is also ta e cient, since such contributions will usually qualify for orporation a relief he annual allowance of , mentioned above applies to contributions made by individuals and employers, so this would still need to be considered when thinking about the level of contribution to make

Are there any other tax benefits?

Income and capital growth generated within registered pension schemes is e empt from income ta and capital gains ta

It will also be appreciated from the above that one of the main benefits for higher and additional rate ta payers in making pension contributions is to receive ta relief during their working lives which may be at a higher rate hopefully than the resulting pension income will be subject to in retirement

It is also generally much easier these days to transfer pension pots on death to other family members without triggering significant ta charges in doing so ension funds can also be free of Inheritance a IH if they are suitably written in trust, so that they remain outside one’s estate on death ensions should, therefore, form an important part of any IH and estate planning

Specific advice in relation to pension schemes should be obtained from your pension advisor or an independent financial advisor

*The above is for general guidance only, and no action should be taken without obtaining specific advice.

Jacqui Bowden from Bath-based chartered accountants and tax advisers PEARSON MAY asks

an important question…

BATH LIFE AWARDS WINNERS

YAK YETI YAK

Co-owner of the Nepalese restaurant, Sarah Gurung, on what winning a Bath Life Award means to her business

EVENT WINNER

SPONSORED BY

to eet ot er sinesses an to s ort t e e ent so e st rela e an reall en o e it. t’s al a s oo to eet e ers of t e at co nit e s en so c ti e at or t at e rarel et t e o ort nit to t faces to t e na es e often ear.

Any collaborations on the horizon?

e et it so e reall reat eo le an so es a fe o ort nities have arisen…

Well done on the win, Sarah! But what first motivated you to enter?

e ante to raise t e rofile of t e resta rant. t as also interestin to consi er an resent all e a e one it t e resta rant an e o it.

What was it like on the night?

o et er it s an an siness artner era ostl se t e e enin as an o ort nit

What does winning the Bath Life Award mean for your business?

st ein a finalist as a reat orale ooster an i e iatel el e to raise t e rofile of o r siness. n innin t e a ar as a a in t’s fantastic to recei e local reco nition after so lon in siness in at .

For more: www.yakyetiyak.co.uk | www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

THE BATH LIFE AWARD JUDGES

Sera and Sarah Gurung: clearly thrilled with their award

“EXCELLING DURING A TRICKY PERIOD FOR THE HOSPITALITY SCENE WITH A FRESH SEASONAL MENU, WHILST ALSO USING ITS PLATFORM TO SUPPORT CAUSES IN NEPAL AND MARGINALISED CHILDREN. FOODIE AND PHILANTHROPIC!”

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

NEW BUSINESS THINKING

To me ambition is lifelong learning, whether that’s through professional, educational or personal development. I enjoy change and have worked for a wide variety of businesses, including The Body Shop, Dyson, Marks & Spencer, Superdry, and Frugi, and I am currently collaborating with three businesses.

One of these roles – non-executive director at Bath-based eyewear company Inspecs –came from an introduction by a fellow MBA alumnus, and involves supporting Inspecs as a leading provider of eyewear solutions to the global eyewear market. The business has seen rapid, global growth and continues to go from strength to strength.

Another of these roles, as non-executive director with G Surfing, has been a great chance to give back. What I love is the focus on helping young people compete at elite levels. The team are developing GB surfers to reach World Cup podiums and, hopefully, win Olympic medals by risbane Surfing has so many positive aspects including physical health, mental health and sustainability, which is important in every single way.

I’ve recently started a full-time role with the local sustainable-materials-innovation business Kelpi, whose founders have strong links to the University of Bath. When I was invited to look around Kelpi’s laboratory and o ces, the opportunity to rid the world of single-use plastic inspired me.

Kelpi’s world-class scientists are developing biomaterials that can replicate the performance of plastic but will biodegrade, without leaving toxins or microplastics behind. This works by harnessing the properties of seaweed to create compostable, marine-safe, low-carbon packaging.

As chief commercial o cer, I’m commercialising the material our chemists are developing. We are already working with some of the biggest companies in the world, which is very exciting.

Without my time at the University of Bath, I wouldn’t be where I am. I still visit the campus, most recently for the School of Management’s alumni open house, as well as an MBA class of 2010 reunion last year. My MBA cohort still has a WhatsApp group 13

years after graduating, which is a great way to tap into each other’s networks.

One piece of advice I would give my student self is to get involved in as much as you can as often as you can. Find what you enjoy and do more of that, you’ll always find a way to make money from your passions.

As Kelpi is in the development stages, our next step is to get our product on the market and start saving the world from plastic pollution. Exciting times!

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

Hugo Adams, MBA alumnus of the UNIVERSITY OF BATH, SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT, talks about his aim to send plastic pollution packing

“ WE ARE ALREADY WORKING WITH SOME OF THE BIGGEST COMPANIES IN THE WORLD, WHICH IS VERY EXCITING”

HUGO ADAMS, chief commercial officer, Kelpi

New development

COMMUNITY BUILD

Persimmon Homes Wessex has secured a resolution to grant planning permission for a new sustainable community of 25 highalit o es on ro nfiel lan in ro e. The scheme includes a mix of properties, from one to three-bed homes, which will help to meet local housing needs and open the oor to o e o ners i to si nificantl ore local fa ilies.

As part of the scheme, Persimmon will also transfer eight properties to a social housing provider for rent and shared ownership for t e r oses of o sin local eo le.

Persimmon Homes’ Wessex managing

director, Julian Roper, says, “The e elo ent on ro nfiel lan o Adderwell Road will provide a wide range of high-quality new homes designed for local eo le es eciall o n fa ilies an first time buyers, who otherwise might struggle to et onto t e o sin la er.

“Every home will be equipped with air source heat pumps and electric vehicle c ar in oints. ere ill e io i ersit enhancement measures, such as bird and at o es an il o er lantin as ell as initiatives to encourage sustainable travel, incl in c cle stores.

“The scheme will also deliver additional co nit enefit t ro t e creation of ne o s ei t ne a or a le o es publicly accessible green open space and financial contri tions to local e cation an ser ices.

The scheme has also been enhanced through the incorporation of additional lan sca in . is as een create t e underground crating of drainage to provide a usable focal open space for residents, which ill e lante it fr it trees.

For more: www.persimmonhomes.com

Frome’s to see 25 new homes built on brownfield land; many are affordable, too

The scheme includes a mix of propertiy types – and assorted bat boxes!

Restoration OFFICE AFFAIR

The award-winning Vertex Investment Group has set up a serviced accommodation complex on Brock treet. sse l ces o ers ten ser ice o ces across fo r oors incl in e roc ite a i tec eetin roo a rea o t an itc en a i e store an s o er facilities.

Vertex Investments Limited has worked closely with Bath & North East Somerset Council planning department to sympathetically restore the period ro ert . s o es erson for e sse l sa s it a background in property investment and hospitality across ristol an at e sse l co ines s ills fro ot sectors as it enters t e ser ice o ces arena. e are e cite to o er ell a ointe erfectl ositione o ce sol tions to sinesses across t e est Co ntr . e a e eca es of co ine local knowledge and a wide and respected professional network that we bring to The Assembly.”

For more: www.assem l o ces.co.uk

Renovation A VAN GO MASTERPIECE

A battered vintage caravan has been turned into a contemporary Airbnb located in two acres of woodlands near Bruton. The Scrumpling was sal a e iannon an ic ar atten o a e a e t e an aterti t ta en its o or ac to its ore nat ral roots an res a e t e fittin s so it feels ore li e a shepherd’s hut than a traditional caravan.

iannon sa s elocatin t e itc en and bathroom to separate spaces outside the caravan means The Scrumpling is now on erf ll roo insi e it a c sto ilt in si e e at one en stora e s ace in t e middle and a lounge-like area at the other end.

e’ e ecorate it in a soft ro antic st le t at re ects the woodland surroundings.”

For more: www.thescrum li g.co.uk

Sales

SECOND SERVING

a t e for er talian resta rant an ar on alcot treet as een sol t ro t e s ecialist business property adviser Christie & Co and is set to reopen as a Mediterranean restaurant called Pomegranate. The restaurant site is set in t. ic ael’s C rc o se a ra e liste il in ic feat res a i a lte roof stained glass windows and various period features. ic olas Calfe irector at C ristie Co sa s e sale of a in at is a clear in ication of the demand we have for leasehold hospitality sinesses artic larl in esira le locations. e ere lease to ac ie e t e f ll as in rice and look forward to seeing the new concept come to life.”

For more: www.christie.com

Rhiannon and Richard have transformed a battered van into a gorgeous Airbnb

A great vase greets you at The Assembly

The Grade II property’s beautiful high vaulted roof

Christie & Co says this sale reflects Bath’s continued desirability in the hospitality trade

THE SOFT PARADE

We’ve 20 of the top soft furnishing trends that will help shape and update our spaces over the coming year, straight from the mouths of Bath’s most prominent interior design experts

By Wendy Lyne

Rarely have botanicals looked quite as sexy or threatening as in this bolder-than-bold wallpaper by Divine

Savages

Soft furnishings are amazing: relatively cheap and easy to swap in and out, they provide endless opportunities to add personality to your space, and nod to contemporary trends without investing in them too heavily. Even better, they can – almost magically – pull a design together in the final stages

But even this, perhaps, is to underestimate how important soft furnishings can be. Something as small and simple as a cushion can serve as a great starting point for your design theme: it can show how unexpected colours work well together, or introduce motifs you can later pick up on elsewhere. And as they’re so easily interchangeable as tastes and trends ebb and flow, replacing them later allows your room to grow and mature over time.

“We’re not very trend-led at Etons of Bath,” says Kirsty Lake, creative director at the Georgian and period home interior design specialist. “But we make something of an exception for soft furnishings: rugs, cushions, throws, even wallpaper and curtains. Carefully chosen details can make a big difference to an interior’s feeling of home a soft wool rug on the floor, a warm linen throw over the sofa arm, a quilted bedspread to break up the crispness of white linen bedding – all have the ability to transform the mood of even the smallest nook. They’re often the frivolous moments in a design where the aesthetic is more of a driving factor than the practicality of the piece – and so the ideal place to throw caution to the wind, and have a little fun. ”

But beware, for there are pitfalls too.

“With soft furnishings, overdoing it can be an issue,” says Emily Fletcher, who multitasks – director, buyer, interior stylist – at The

Salcombe Trading Company, the Bath-based Scandinavian-themed home and garden experts. “There is such a thing as too many cushions and throws, in my opinion. Cluttering up your sofa or bed with multitudes can make the room feel hectic. Carefully select three or four, and use different shapes to break up the scheme

With this in mind, let’s explore the snakes and ladders of the seemingly endless soft furnishing jungle, here at the mid point of 2023. (And, yes, snakes can most de nite be part of your design – they very much tie into at least two of the most prominent themes of the moment. Go, Slytherin!)

Trend 1: Punch it up

“A colourful room needn’t mean multicolours,” says Jamie Watkins, co-founder of British luxury wallpaper, fabric and homewares design house Divine Savages these days he works alongside husband om Kennedy at their shop on Margaret’s Buildings. “It can be a celebration of one really punchy, core colour instead. By choosing one colour as a starting point, everything else can complement or contrast with it through varying hues and textures. We suggest starting with a boldly patterned fabric in a striking colour, such as coral, and covering the chairs or a sofa From here, pick out complementary but different enough shades of pink for the paint, walls, accessories and artwork. You could even introduce a metallic wallpaper in the same shade. The result will be bursting with personality, pattern and pink perfection.”

Trend 2: The stars are stripes

“Think decamping to a beach house to drink white wine in striped pyjamas,” says Emily Fletcher of The Salcombe Trading Company. It’s Shaker kitchens filled with bowls of lemons, rela ed linens mingled

ABOVE: Gently contrasting patterns and textures by Kate Loundon Shand; LEFT: Pink on pink on pink in this striking room by Divine Savages

with jute. It’s an absolute classic Hamptons look, and it’s here to stay. Add in blue and white stripes to break up any neutrals. Cushions and throws are a vital finishing touch of this look I call it oastal Grandma’ and an ine pensive way to change up your scheme

And she’s not the only one to love stripes, though sometimes in more daring colours

e love the uniformity of green and pink stripes, says Georgia etcalfe, founder and creative director of French edroom, the online furniture boutique known for timeless, feminine style specially when they contrast with the rela ed te ture of an ivory white herringbone stripe he ju taposition of te tures within the fabric makes it so much more than a simple stripe in fact, the te tural intrigue forms a main element of the design itself Stylistically, the stripes in a fabric can provide the ideal partner for botanical wallpapers or cushions capturing the current trend for paired stripes and florals

And Kate oudoun Shand, owner and creative director of her eponymous cloth and wallpaper design company in Holt, agrees I love esty stripes pretty much everywhere, especially on the tabletop, she says. “My linen napkin sets are pretty out-there with the colours, but they’re really inspired by Victoriana, all those lime greens and heavy reds ra y colour is actually quite traditional!

Trend 3: Micro luxury

Our Deco artini in Gatsby Gold’, inspired by the oaring wenties, brings Art Deco opulence to an otherwise pared down interior, says amie atkins of Divine Savages, but with our own twist on the traditional Deco fan motif, featuring a hidden martini glass within the design Adorning cushions and lampshades in dark, sultry shades, this fabric gives a playful, sophisticated air of rock ’n’ roll

Trend 4: Garden of Eden

Now here’s a trend everyone seems to agree on: leaves and flowers and animals and birds, often on a vast scale e love anything with a nature inspired vein running through it, says amie atkins of Divine Savages In fact, we’ve worked with the ational History useum to design a collection inspired by their vast array of botanical specimens, original illustrations and paintings, as well as the spectacular vaulted ceiling of the iconic Great Hall, adorned with illustrated panels showing plants from across the world this, in particular, proved a great inspiration for our otani e design hilst

the botanical trend in interiors has been thriving for a number of seasons, our own designs take on a more abstract twist Our Forbidden loom velvet, for instance, combines beautifully illustrated botanical blooms intertwined with sweeping serpents and reptiles for a wild and untamed interior

And Kirsty ake of tons of ath is of similar mind he influence of the natural world often comes across in cushions, curtains, even wallpaper, she says rees, leaves, floral motifs and animals, from labels like Schumacher, ole and Sons and Andrew artin, are playful and striking he Georgians themselves loved their pineapples and snake motifs, and acanthus leaf symbolism in their accessories too

Trend 5: Floral explosion

In fact, let’s hammer one of those points home: when we’re talking the influence of nature, florals are always in the vanguard y grandmother taught me all about flowers, says Georgia etcalfe of French edroom heir scents, colours, te tures and petal formations At the heart of my garden is our rose bed, awash with memories of her I often design to reflect this floral charm, using fabrics that depict flowers in damask like delicate garlands, hand tied with ribbons, linked with ornate scrolls, or printed on a cotton linen blend

Trend 6: Au naturel

For ohn aw, creative director interiors at oodhouse and aw the interior and garden design specialists in athwick it’s perhaps no surprise that natural, earthy tones have such enduring appeal hey’re often accompanied by the embrace of biophilic design’, buildings and interiors aimed at improving our well being and creativity by better connecting us to nature, he says o this end, we’re seeing a growing number of pieces made from natural materials, often paired with curved lines and soft shapes to instil a more organic feel to a scheme

Trend 8: Think holistically

hen considering a space in its entirety, says Kirsty ake of tons of ath, we often use soft furnishings to create continuity For e ample, we might bring the fabric from the curtains onto the cushions, or pick up on the colour palette of one element in the detailing of another For those clients who prefer calmer interiors, we do the same thing in a quieter fashion with te tures and proportions It’s all about using visual languages and elements that speak to each other

Textures rather than colour provide the interest in this relaxing, neutral-toned bedroom by The Salcombe Trading Company

INTERIORS

Trend 7: Blue and green should always be seen

Yes, yes, all shades have their place – and we’ll get to another unexpected hero colour in a moment – but two, in particular, are both highly versatile and enduring, whilst really reflecting the natural world.

“Green has been very on-trend in recent years – and can look amazing, don’t get me wrong – but we also love the more versatile and enduring blue,” says Kirsty Lake of Etons of Bath, “especially in Regency shades. Farrow and Ball’s Hague Blue and Edward Bulmer’s Cerullian Blue are proving to be timeless choices for our clients.”

“Crazy colour is actually traditional”quite

Assorted bright colours anchored by steady blue in an Etons of Bath living room

Trend 9: The 1970s retro look

“Patterns of the 1970s were often geometric, or showed an element of repeated print,” says Jamie Watkins of Divine Savages, “something we indulged in when creating our Deco Martini and Gershwing designs. We like to pair our velvet upholstery with statement wallpapers and mid-century furniture for the perfect retro look. Our Bloomin’ arvellous design, with its huge flowers, has the large scale bold pattern and vibrant colour palette that is so reminiscent of the s It’s certainly not one for wallflowers!

uch of the ’ s trend sits uncomfortably with high ceilinged Georgian spaces, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with certain elements,” says Kirsty Lake at Etons of Bath, “including the colour palette hocolate browns in a study or olive greens can provide a subtle nod for lovers of the period

Trend 10: School of blocks

lock prints an ancient method of printing fabric using carved wooden blocks are making a huge comeback too, reckons Kate oudoun

Shand emember the block print dresses of the ’ s e’ve been delighted to see a great response to our new block printed patterns, and the increased interest in the entire process of block printing generally Block printing really adds depth and texture to a pattern, as every inch is created by the hand of a skilled craftsman hey can be used in high tra c areas too, as the designs are very forgiving in terms of scuffs

Trend 11: Brown (yes, brown!)

And speaking of brown, if the ’ s are in, could this oft divisive shade be far behind

“At Woodhouse and Law, we’re really enjoying the move away from a more pared down look to one, instead, that uses strong combinations of pattern, colour and te ture, says ohn aw It makes our job even more exciting, as we have so many new-found, fun opportunities to use individual trims or unusual finishes in our projects Some of those new combinations have a surprisingly nostalgic feel Once considered a throwback to the s, brown tones are beginning to take centre stage in schemes again, whether in wall treatments, materials or furniture. hese are joined by terracotta pinks and soft caramels, creating a sense of warmth, calm, and comfort.”

Trend 12: Window on the world

eriod properties are often gifted with stunning wooden floors and large proportion windows,” says Kirsty Lake of Etons of Bath, complete with working shutters but whilst these classic features are wonderful, their hard nature can create a cold, echoey environment. Window treatments can soften the acoustics, while introducing opportunities to balance the use of pattern across the space, and of course frame a beautiful view

Trend 13: Hot woods

hough surely the diametric opposite of soft furnishings, your choice of wood hard, yes, but not in the same way as stone and metals also has a place in this conversation.

ertain woods work best, says Georgia etcalfe of French edroom, and we love dense, durable mango at the moment, for its beautifully rich, warm tones as well as its kindness to the planet And then, of course, there’s oak: we love its inherent disparities in colour and grain pattern, so each piece will have its own unique variation that will include knots, black lines, tiger grain, medullary rays, colour variation and shadowing o two pieces will be an e act match, enhancing its unique characteristics and warmth.”

Trend 14: Rugs are magic

o finish off a scheme, a rug is a great way to break up large spaces and demarcate zones, while consolidating the details from a multitude of pieces in the room,” says Kirsty Lake of Etons of Bath. “Rugs are magic, in other words: they can break up a space and hold it all together, both at once

ABOVE: Cushions can work as display items, as French Bedroom proves; BELOW: Tone, shape and texture at play from French brand Casmance at Woodhouse and Law

“A rug is a great way to break up large spaces”

Trend 15: Eco-friendly

Another trend that shows no signs of slowing down is that for more ecofriendly fabrics. “We recently relaunched all of our velvets as a recycled materials range,” says Jamie Watkins of Divine Savages. “The pile is now 100% recycled, predominantly from plastic bottles.”

Kate Loudoun Shand is of similar mind. “We use EU grade linen, which is not only a very luxurious and durable fabric, but also uses very little water and pesticides to produce So often you’ll find that natural fibres have almost magical qualities that are half forgotten, like the bouncy stretchiness of linen as it ages. It really is a ‘wonder fabric’.”

Meanwhile, Georgia Metcalfe of French Bedroom expands on the virtues of mango. “Once the fruit is used, the standard practice is that mango trees are burnt down to clear space for replanting. However, by using the wood too, the farmers gain extra income, and their environment is not polluted or heated by smoke from those fires

Trend 16: Comfortcore

Here’s one of the really big trends of the moment, with most of our designers having something to say about it.

“Comfortcore is for those seeking a warm hug to welcome you home,” says Emily at Salcombe Trading. “Soft, snuggly and comfy te tures i different te tures together in the same tones sheepskin, boucle, good quality fau fur, velvet A layered look will ensure the ultimate cosy feel.”

And ill O’Doherty, design consultant at online store Sofas Stuff, agrees. “This is a trend that focuses on the lived experience of your interior as much as the aesthetic,” she says. “Comfortcore combines appealing design with wonderfully soft and inviting textiles to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere. A tactile, slubby linen is great choice

for this look. Wool, too, is a wonderful fabric to consider: it’s beautiful in either a plain colour, a stripe or a checked weave.”

Trend 17: Velvet

“Velvet is a timeless and versatile fabric that goes beautifully with a retro style, says ill O’Doherty of Sofas Stuff It’s lu urious, tactile and works well with bold colour palettes and design details. A statement piece in mustard or burnt orange will never fail to make an impact.”

Trend 18: Rich trims

“Using a really rich trim is a great trick, to give a monochrome fabric a lift,” says Kate Loudoun Shand, “but also to chime and tussle with patterned fabric. The London-based handmade furniture specialist Ensemblier recently added a wonderful bold trim to a headboard done in my already quite full on angalee’ linen, and it worked so well And Kirsty Lake of Etons of Bath agrees. “There are dozens of ways to introduce soft furnishings to a scheme,” she says, “and as many things to consider when doing so: not just colour or pattern, for instance, but texture too. Consider layering cushions, pairing bold prints with block colours, or smooth surfaces with embossed or otherwise dramatically te tured ones and then introducing braids, fringes or even a bobble trim.”

Trend 19: Even forgotten soft furnishings deserve their place in the sun

“The shower curtain is a classic piece of unexpected soft furnishing,” says Jamie Watkins of Divine Savages. “The humble bathroom is so often overlooked when it comes to colour, pattern and print, yet it’s one of the best spaces to easily embrace bold design. Why can’t you blend serious style with practicality Adding a lu ury shower curtain the often forgotten member of the soft furnishings family embla oned with a decadent design, is a low-cost way to make a bold statement.”

Trend 20: There’s always something new to learn

Don’t believe us hen here’s a simple but oh, so valuable tip from mily Fletcher at Salcombe rading Always scale up on the filler you use for your cushions. They will last much longer, and you’ll avoid sad, saggy covers.”

Simple, right? But then that’s soft furnishings for you. The magic is very much in the details

YOU HAVE BEEN READING…

Divine Savages

5 Margaret's Buildings, Bath, BA1 2LP; www.divinesavages.com

Etons of Bath

Carriage Court, 22 Circus Mews, Bath, BA1 5BG; www.etonsofbath.com

French Bedroom www.frenchbedroom.co.uk

Kate Loudoun Shand Studio 8, Glove Factory Studios, Holt, BA14 6RL; www.kateloudounshand.com

The Salcombe Trading Company

1 Farleigh Yard, Bath, BA2 7NG; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

Sofas & Stuff

www.sofasandstuff.co.uk

Woodhouse and Law

4 Georges Place, Bath, BA2 4EN; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

Another delightfully restrained approach to bedroom design, this one from Sofas & Stuff: cosy, rustic, vaguely Nordic and extremely relaxing

THE OLD FOX

Words by Gracie Hanson

Pictures by Inigo

This charming Grade II-listed home, built of none-more-buttery Cotswold stone with a Somerset Roman tiled roof, is located in Farleigh Wick, between Bradford-on-Avon and Bath, slap-bang in the middle of all t at lorio s co ntr si e o fin on the eastern banks of the River Avon. Originally a 16th-century inn, The Fox and Hounds, it’s recently been converted into two houses, of which The Old Fox is one. Beautifully restored and updated, and awash with modern features, it nevertheless retains all its period charm; indeed, meticulous care has been taken to source the i est alit aterials an fittin s to create a slee streamlined living space, while retaining a wealth of original features.

The core of this place dates right back to the 1500s a arentl a r a s as t e first recor e lan lor here, in 1571), but its history as a favoured stop along the London-Bath route led to various extensions over the centuries, not least a vast refurbishment in the 1960s. The Old Fox side of the inn retains its character it r stic a stones ele ant sas in o s an ran fire laces. e transfor ation e ten s racef ll into the grounds, where a gravel driveway winds through a walled garden to an inviting entrance painted in a timeless shade, Studio Green by Farrow and Ball.

You enter into a spacious open-plan sitting and dining room, formerly the inn’s bar and eating area, a space that simply exudes warmth, with its wool carpet and Stoney Ground-painted walls (again byFarrow and Ball). Box sash windows are set on a double aspect, while a ro inent stone fire lace it a lo store co an s attention on the north wall. The dining area has anot er i ressi e fire lace co le ente a i performance log burner and a built-in cabinet, while t o eli tf l in o seats a to t e c ar o erin intriguing glimpses into the kitchen, which has been expanded over the centuries. is is a ri t an air s ace fille it li t o rin through three stone mullioned windows and glazed

A former 16th century inn is transformed into a lovely 21st century home

“The house retains its character”enchanting

o le oors lea in to t e ar en. le a stones fro an arin tone a e t e oor ile a rtle ire Eart a orns t e slo in roof an alls. o tf ll esi ne it’s a s ace t at o ers a le roo for foo re aration an stora e it nits linin t o alls ile a enero s tler’s sin nestles in t e one ranite or to .

ore o le oors ar t e entrance to an anteroo ser in as t e entr all ic connects to a la n r an oot roo co lete it coor inatin ca inets an a f ll sta e oa or to t ere is also an a itional cloa roo . Contin in fro t e itc en a lar e a lte roo for erl an eatin area as is staine oa oor oar s an a sef l e anine. C rrentl a cine a roo t is s ace o l a e a on erf l fo rt e roo or st .

in in staircase lea s to t e first oor ere t o ell si e e roo s a e t ic alls ainte in ne tral ston colo rs. ot roo s a e lar e e ose fire laces it s stantial stone lintels an in o seats it anora ic ie s of t e s rro n in co ntr si e. e first oor also as a t o tf ll esi ne fa il at an et roo co lete it a ron e as stan set into an ori inal case ent in o an o ton tiles from Mandarin Stone.

e rinci al e roo is on t e secon oor accesse t ro a i en el staircase conceale e in a st r ti er oor. is o en lan s ace nestle it in t e ea es is stri in an ra atic it its t ree cast iron s li ts an o osin case ent

HOUSE NUMBERS

Guide price £1.195million

Bedrooms 4

Boules court 1

Rainfall shower 1

For more: www.inigo.com

in o s en ancin t e ro ortions an ar onisin it t e soft c al aint alette. e focal oint o e er is a cast iron freestan in sso at a orne it ron e stan i es. e t oor e in an ol oo en artition is a et roo it a rainfall s o er an a c ar in ti er an ar le as stan . it a ea tif l so t easterl as ect t e ar en as a on erf l sense of ro i it to nat re it il o er fiel s st e on t e o n aries. e lar e la n as een ne l lai ile a s acio s atio area a es o t oor inin al ost ine ita le on cle ent a s. n t en to rn o a little ener not re air to t e e icate tan e co rt e’ll e e ectin a ell traine e l o tea to s ee all efore t e at t e ne t at o les

“Meticulous care has been take to high-quality materials”

FOR THE HOME

TR HAYES

TR Hayes has been selling furniture in Bath for over 100 years now and has a reputation for good quality and excellent service, and the handy customer car park makes browsing stress free ou will find furniture of all sorts, with many major brands featured. There are also well respected curtain and carpet departments. 15-18 London Street, Walcot, Bath BA1 5BX; Tel: 01225 465757; www.trhayes.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

ath’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, arbas elfires, Hwam, Stuv and etmaster 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

CHEVERELL

Cheverell is set in the heart of Wiltshire with a stunning showroom and workshop, offering a full bespoke design, manufacturing and installation service in kitchens, bedrooms, and interiors. Established in 1989 it has over 30 years of experience to guide you through the whole process. Cheverell, Waller Road, Hopton Park, Devizes, Wiltshire SN10 2GH; Tel: 01380 722722; www.cheverell.co.uk

BROADLEAF

Broadleaf are the UK’s leading manufacturer and retailer of beautiful wood flooring, with a unique and unrivalled range of solid and engineered plank and parquet. Open since 2022 their extensive Bath showroom showcases the complete collection. Visit their e pert, friendly team to find inspiration, discuss your project and pick up samples. 134 – 136 Walcot St; 01225 463464; www.broadleaftimber.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, o ces and other commercial venues. Contact Clair on 07855 797311 or 01225 690019; www.clairstrong.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

PERFECT ROOMS

Originally from Perth in Scotland, Perfect Rooms owner, Sue, is a creative interior designer by heart with an enviable eye for detail. Passionate about creating new schemes that are designed to impress, she has a portfolio of clients up and down the country that cannot speak highly enough of her incredible work. To arrange a consultation for interior design services, do not hesitate to get in touch.

Tel: 01249 716445; www.perfectrooms.co.uk

PLUSHH:

Guarantee outstanding build quality, top class project management and truly amazing customer care. Specialising in the domestic market, from concept to completion. Their expertise covers all aspects of building refurbishment, renovation and outstanding property maintenance packages. Tel: 01225 767148;

www.plushhrestoration.co.uk

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

MEL LAWMAN

The writer and drama coach on taking Peter Gabriel’s advice and giving Barbie her first ever voice

Mel Lawman is a writer, lyricist, director, theatre producer, and drama coach. She runs Bath Acting & Theatre Studio (B.A.T.S), which nurtures young local acting talent. She is currently preparing her musical, A Girl MissRed, for her second foray to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. It was supported by the Bath Forum, where it was due to perform in 2021 had it not been for Covid.

Mel has recently recorded five songs from her second musical, with West End and Broadway performers, at RKA Studios. She lives in Bath with her husband, Matt, and two children, Lara and Lucas.

I was always creative rather than academic an fro an earl a e st ante to t on s o s. n senior sc ool as o se Ca tain so e o l sa a orn or aniser ot ers o l sa ‘ oss ’ .

A change of schools in my teens led to a spell of being bullied – a theme that has spilled into ritin . loo e after e an rot er ile a or e in t e rctic t the distance took its toll and my parents divorced.

I later fell into a degree in Art & Dance at Goldsmith’s College li e aintin an dancing. (Parents back then eren’t insi tf l it i ance fter co inin a fe o s it art ti e st in ra a t eatre an ro ction traine as a drama teacher.

Radio producer John Tuckey asked me to pilot school radio drama programmes. C ee il s itte o n or an en e ritin e tensi el for t e C. t en left f ll ti e teac in to foc s on ritin .

I collaborated with John on the first ever Barbie audio

stories. is as t e first ti e ar ie a a oice an attel a r les en al a s ‘arri es’ for rea fast e ne er sta s o er o n later ro ce first t o ori inal ra io la s ot ic of t e ee in The Telegraph and The Independent. We later or e on En lis lan a e learnin ro ra es for frica E cational r st ic aire in South Sudan.

A weekend trip from London to Bath wowed us. When a ter ara as orn att an cra e a fa il environment nearer to our roots. e relocate ot arrie at c na ar follo e an evening reception at the Roman at s an oo an o r guests had the most amazing Bath experience.

After moving to Bath, I began working for BBC Radio Wales on a drama series, ic ran for t ree ears. en it en e fo n as re nant it o r son cas. erfect ti in t i iss t e orl of t e fictitio s els to n an ein in a on st a lot of ilario s els ale riters. a e an i ression in at as still a re o inantl ale rofession. en rote for a ile for t e C’s Doctors ainl rin t e ni t en t e i s ere aslee .

I’ve always written what I used to call ‘crappy’ poetry. onl e an ritin l rics in earnest ei t ears a o after eetin at ase co oser att inc . att an ro ce o r first son to et er Dare I? e o rne e an ic

continues back at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this August.

Danny John-Jules – the cat in Red Dwarf and more recently cer a ne ers in Death in Paradise – played the lead in first ori inal ra io la The Tale of C.P. Couch Potato. Some 25 ears later in e a eare in Strictly Come Dancing an essa e i . stonis in l e res on e it a oto of t e ori inal scri t ic e’ e t.

I was trying to develop a musical version of Couch Potato an ann i e iatel introduced me to Clement s ael ose a o is isne ’s orl i e sical irector of t e Lion King. Clement an a e colla orate since an are in t e rocess of co letin Couch (The Musical)

I started airing some of the MissRed songs through Mercury Musical Developments, and the co osers an ere a ar e asterclasses it Cla e ic el c n er t e co oser of Les Misérables. Another e a le of so eone o i es time to support others.

Being a Bath resident means you are likely to bump into famous people. Peter Gabriel o ere to listen to Couch radio la no in t at ante to e elo it. is a ice as to a ance t e ro ect self rat er t an ris losin control. n onto it an t en et Cle ent. reat a ice t an o eter For more: www.missredthemusical.co.uk

“I collaborated on the first ever Barbie audio stories”

500 COMING SOON THIS SEPTEMBER THE 500 TH EDITION